FCPS

If you need this message in another language, please visit this link: https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1

Si necesita este mensaje en otro idioma, visite el sitio web de nuestra escuela en este enlace: https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1

اذا كننتم بحاجة ان تستلموا هذه الرسالة بلغة اخرى  فنرجوا زيارة موقع ا مدرستنا  على هذا الرابط.                  

https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1     

11/13/23

Glen Forest Families:

We hope to see you this Wednesday, November 15th, for a Thanksgiving Lunch.  A flier was sent home with all the details and a section for your family to RSVP.  All visitors' lunches will cost $4.75.  Please join us!

Attendance Remains Strong

Thank you for your support with your child's attendance.  Last week's school-wide attendance rate was 95.32%, with Ms. Devan Davis' 2nd grade class with 100% attendance.  Let's keep it strong!  

Chronic absenteeism (missing 18 or more school days per year) is a primary cause of lower academic achievement even when the absences are "excused" or understandable. Regular school attendance in elementary school improves the chances that a child will read on grade level. Students who attend 90 percent or more of the school year are more likely to graduate from high school on time. 

23-24 SIIP (School Improvement & Innovation Plan) 

Our SIIP is now posted on our school website at this link. We have 3 goals (1 reading, 1 math, and absenteeism) which are directly aligned to the new FCPS Strategic Plan. Visit this site to learn more about the Strategic Plan. 

A team of staff members started to analyze data this past July, and these findings are what helped drive our SIIP plan. Region 2 leaders also provided input and feedback.  The plan will be monitored every quarter.  

Full-Time AAP Referral Window Reminder for Parents

Parents/guardians who would like their student to be considered for full-time Advanced Academic services may submit the Full-Time Referral Form to the local school Advanced Academic Resource Teacher (AART), Avery Rothman at [email protected] or principal no later than December 15, 2023. No late forms will be accepted.

The 2023-2024 Student Rights and Responsibilities document explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses to enhance school safety and to create a fair, equitable and supportive school environment. We ask that you use this document as a framework for discussing these expectations with your child.  Parents are essential partners in helping their children learn how to exhibit positive and prosocial behaviors, make ethical choices, and be accountable for their actions. 

One unexpected behavior that is sometimes observed is Assault, Fighting.  Students who become angry or upset with anyone are encouraged to resolve conflicts peacefully. Teachers, counselors, and other school personnel can help students find civil, nonviolent ways to handle disagreements. A student who threatens to harm or physically attacks another student or staff member—or is part of a group that does this—is subject to consequences.

Free Online Tutoring

FCPS students have unlimited access to 24/7, on-demand, online tutoring support services through Tutor.com at no cost to families. Students can connect online any time, any place, and in most K-12 subjects for however long they need. Tutoring may be on-demand and/or scheduled at a time convenient for the student and/or family.  Visit this link to find out more information! 

Follow Glen Forest on social media! Look for updates and reminders and get a peek at what is happening in classrooms and around the school!  Look for "Glen Forest Elementary School" on Facebook and Instagram and click follow!

Native American Heritage Month

Native American Heritage Month is a time to celebrate rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories and to acknowledge the important contributions of Native Americans. It is also a time to raise a general awareness about the unique challenges they have faced both historically and in the present, and the ways in which tribal citizens have worked to conquer these challenges. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.

Thanksgiving Spirit Week!

Monday November 13th – Giving Thanks: Write notes to your friends, teachers, and families about why you are thankful for them
Tuesday November 14th – Matching Day: Show your friends how much you appreciate them by dressing like twins, triplets, or a big group!
Wednesday November 15th – Fall Colors Day: Wear red, orange, yellow or brown to celebrate Fall at our Thanksgiving Lunch!
Thursday November 16th – Culture Day: Show how thankful you are to be where you are from by dressing in clothing that represents where you come from, where your family is from, or that reflect your culture!
Friday November 17th – Pajama Day: Let’s be thankful for a fun week by cozying up in our Pajamas!

Good News!

Glen Forest will be getting a facelift this summer! The entire building will be painted and the front office and library will be getting new flooring. This is exciting news for our school community! There is an option to tear out the old built-in computer tables. As for summer programs, we anticipate that we will not be hosting, although there has not been a confirmation. You will continue to be posted.

Mark Your Calendars!

Tuesday, 11/14 - PTO Fundraising Night at Chipotle 4:00 - 8:00 pm (Jefferson Street)
Wednesday, 11/15 - Thanksgiving Lunch
Wednesday, 11/15 - Family Food Market 5:30pm-7:00pm
Thursday, 11/16 – Last Day for PTO Afterschool Clubs
Saturday, 11/18 - PTO Fun Run - Registration begins at 10am and race begins at 11am! Food trucks will be there!
Wednesday, 11/29 - PTO Meeting via Zoom - 7:30pm

https://myfcpsk12.zoom.us/j/93477400889

What will your child be learning this year? 

You can visit this link on the FCPS website to see the elementary school academics by grade level.  

Glen Forest Administration:

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Principal, [email protected]

Liz Manning, Assistant Principal for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Grades - Manning, [email protected] 

Chris Musgnug, Assistant Principal for Kindergarten, 4th, and 5th Grade, [email protected]

Jessica Green, Assistant Principal for Pre-K and Special Education, [email protected]

Rashad DeMesme, Dean of Students for all Grades, [email protected]

If you have any comments, concerns, questions, or compliments, please email me at [email protected].  Thank you for sharing your children with us and for your continued partnership in their education.  

From Many, We are ONE!  Team Glen Forest!  #GFeaglessoar

Warmly, 

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Your Proud Principal

5829 Glen Forest Drive, Falls Church, VA 22041 |  Phone: 703.578.8000

Attendance: Submit Online or Call 703.578.8019 

Web | Twitter | Facebook

If you need this message in another language, please visit this link: https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1

Si necesita este mensaje en otro idioma, visite el sitio web de nuestra escuela en este enlace: https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1

اذا كننتم بحاجة ان تستلموا هذه الرسالة بلغة اخرى  فنرجوا زيارة موقع ا مدرستنا  على هذا الرابط.                  

https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1     

11/5/23

Glen Forest Families:

We hope you will join us on Wednesday, November 15th for a Thanksgiving Lunch.  A flier was sent home with all the details and a section for your family to RSVP.  All visitors' lunches will cost $4.75.  Please join us!

Native American Heritage Month

Native American Heritage Month is a time to celebrate rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories and to acknowledge the important contributions of Native Americans. It is also a time to raise a general awareness about the unique challenges they have faced both historically and in the present, and the ways in which tribal citizens have worked to conquer these challenges. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.

Picture Day!

Picture Day is next week on Nov. 9th and 10th.  Please see the detailed schedule below to see which day your child has pictures.  You should have seen a flier in your child's Wednesday folder on 11/1.  To order pictures, please send in money in the envelope attached to the flier or you may order online at lifetouch.com. 

Thursday, 11/9 - Pre-K (Travis, Paldao, En-Nouri, Moll, Aronson), Gerhardt (lower aut), Stanley (K), Thumm (K), Geist (1st), Mahan (1st), ALL 2nd grade, ALL 3rd grade 

Friday, 11/10 - PAC (McFarland, Lentz, Ahmed), DeCou (upper aut), Baylor (K), Snowden (K), Marot (K), Vega (1st), Winans (1st), Houck (1st), Driscoll (1st), Madigan (1st), ALL 4th grade, ALL 5th grade, 

Thanksgiving Spirit Week!

Monday November 13th – Giving Thanks: Write notes to your friends, teachers, and families about why you are thankful for them
Tuesday November 14th – Matching Day: Show your friends how much you appreciate them by dressing like twins, triplets, or a big group!
Wednesday November 15th – Fall Colors Day: Wear red, orange, yellow or brown to celebrate Fall at our Thanksgiving Lunch!
Thursday November 16th – Culture Day: Show how thankful you are to be where you are from by dressing in clothing that represents where you come from, where your family is from, or that reflect your culture!
Friday November 17th – Pajama Day: Let’s be thankful for a fun week by cozying up in our Pajamas!

Mark Your Calendars!

Monday, 11/6 & Tuesday, 11/7 – Teacher Workdays – No School for Students
Thursday, 11/9 – 5th Grade Field Trip to the National History Museum
Thursday, 11/9 – Family Engagement Event - Health Insurance Enrollment Day (call 703-578-8134)
Thursday, 11/9 & Friday, 11/10 - Fall Pictures
Tuesday, 11/14 - PTO Fundraising Night at Chipotle 4:00 - 8:00 pm (Jefferson Street)
Wednesday, 11/15 - Thanksgiving Lunch
Wednesday, 11/15 - Family Food Market 5:30pm-7:00pm
Thursday, 11/16 – Last Day for PTO Afterschool Clubs
Saturday, 11/18 - PTO Fun Run - Registration begins at 10am and race begins at 11am! Food trucks will be there!
Wednesday, 11/29 - PTO Meeting via Zoom - 7:30pm

https://myfcpsk12.zoom.us/j/93477400889

Caught Being Cool in the Cafe!

A positive reinforcement system has been started in our cafe during lunch. If a student is "caught being cool" in the cafe by using appropriate voice level, staying in their seat, and keeping hands, feet, and objects to themselves, they could be given a ticket to enter in a drawing. Students will bring home the left side home to show off to their families and the right section with their name and teacher will be added to their grade level's bucket. On Fridays, names will be drawn for all grade levels and winners will receive a free kid's meal coupon from Red Robin. Thank you to the folks at Red Robin for their generous donation!

Your Feedback is Wanted!  Fairfax County Public Schools will adopt new Elementary School Language Arts Basal Instructional Resources for the 2024-2025 school year. A review committee composed of community members, administrators, and teachers met in August to review the state-approved Cycle I materials. The committee will re-convene in January to review the state-approved Cycle II instructional materials under consideration. Public review of the recommended materials is part of the process for selecting new resources. 

Elementary English Language Arts basal instructional resources may be accessed in person and online from November 15, 2023, until noon on December 15, 2023.

Digital materials for public review and comment will be available on the Elementary Language Arts Basal Resource Review website. Those reviewing instructional materials may complete an electronic comment sheet that will be available on the website during the review period.

Hard copies of instructional materials will be available for review at:

Pimmit Hills Center, Room 207

7510 Lisle Avenue

Falls Church, VA 22043

Materials may be reviewed at Pimmit Hills Center Monday - Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Visitors should enter through door #4 and check in at the main office or with the building coordinator on duty.

All community feedback will be shared with the review committee and with School Board members before the vote at the School Board regular meeting.

What will your child be learning this year? 

You can visit this link on the FCPS website to see the elementary school academics by grade level.  

Glen Forest Administration:

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Principal, [email protected]

Liz Manning, Assistant Principal for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Grades - Manning, [email protected] 

Chris Musgnug, Assistant Principal for Kindergarten, 4th, and 5th Grade, [email protected]

Jessica Green, Assistant Principal for Pre-K and Special Education, [email protected]

Rashad DeMesme, Dean of Students for all Grades, [email protected]

If you have any comments, concerns, questions, or compliments, please email me at [email protected].  Thank you for sharing your children with us and for your continued partnership in their education.  

From Many, We are ONE!  Team Glen Forest!  #GFeaglessoar

Warmly, 

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Your Proud Principal

5829 Glen Forest Drive, Falls Church, VA 22041 |  Phone: 703.578.8000

Attendance: Submit Online or Call 703.578.8019 

Web | Twitter | Facebook

If you need this message in another language, please visit this link: https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1

Si necesita este mensaje en otro idioma, visite el sitio web de nuestra escuela en este enlace: https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1

اذا كننتم بحاجة ان تستلموا هذه الرسالة بلغة اخرى  فنرجوا زيارة موقع ا مدرستنا  على هذا الرابط.                  

https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1     

10/24/23

Glen Forest Families:

We have an exciting couple of weeks ahead at our school as we close out the 1st quarter and head into the second quarter with many events taking place.  It is strongly encouraged for parents and teachers meet to discuss student progress by the end of the first quarter.  Please take advantage of this opportunity, as the connection between home and school is critical for your child's success!     

PTO Virtual Meeting Tomorrow Evening!

Please join us on Zoom tomorrow evening, October 25th, at 7:30pm at the link below.  Various volunteer opportunities will be discussed and you can find the right fit for you, if you are able.  We look forward to an increase of parent volunteers at Glen Forest!  

 https://myfcpsk12.zoom.us/j/93477400889

Book Fair Next Week:  The Scholastic Book Fair opens next week, October 30th - November 3rd in our school library.  Your child will visit the Book Fair during their regularly scheduled library time.  Students can pay with cash or you can set up an eWallet account at the link below.  Be advised that eWallet does not reimburse you for unspent funds, but rather keeps the funds for future online purchases.

https://bookfairs.scholastic.com/content/fairs/how-ewallet-works.html?fairId=5408915

Our librarian, Ms. Haley Crittenden-Gordon is looking for additional volunteers to help set up and to help students make purchases.  Email her at [email protected] if you are able and willing to volunteer.  Even if you can give an hour, we will take it!  Thank you!

Book Character Dress Up Day:  Next Tuesday, October 31st is Book Character Dress Up Day at Glen Forest.  Students are invited to dress up!  A pink flier was sent home last week with tons of ideas.  We can't wait to see the creativity!  

Mark Your Calendars!

10/30 - 11/3 - Scholastic Book Fair (no evening offerings)
Tuesday, 10/31 - Book Character Dress Day
Friday, 11/3 - Last Day of the Quarter and students released 2 hours early
Monday, 11/6 & Tuesday, 11/7 – Teacher Workdays – No School for Students
Thursday, 11/9 – 5th Grade Field Trip to the National History Museum
Thursday, 11/9 – Family Engagement Event - Health Insurance Enrollment Day (call 703-578-8134)
Thursday, 11/9 & Friday, 11/10 - Fall Pictures (Stay tuned for which grades on which day!)
Tuesday, 11/14 - PTO Fundraising Night at Chipotle 4:00 - 8:00 pm (Jefferson Street)
Wednesday, 11/15 - Thanksgiving Lunch - Families will be invited. Stay tuned for more info!
Thursday, 11/16 – Last Day for PTO Afterschool Clubs
Saturday, 11/18 - PTO Fun Run - Registration begins at 10am and race begins at 11am! Food trucks will be there!
Wednesday, 11/15 - Thanksgiving Lunch - Families will be invited. Stay tuned for more info!
Thursday, 11/16 – Last Day for PTO Afterschool Clubs
Saturday, 11/18 - PTO Fun Run - Registration begins at 10am and race begins at 11am! Food trucks will be there!

Your Feedback is Wanted!  Fairfax County Public Schools will adopt new Elementary School Language Arts Basal Instructional Resources for the 2024-2025 school year. A review committee composed of community members, administrators, and teachers met in August to review the state-approved Cycle I materials. The committee will re-convene in January to review the state-approved Cycle II instructional materials under consideration. Public review of the recommended materials is part of the process for selecting new resources. 

Elementary English Language Arts basal instructional resources may be accessed in person and online from November 15, 2023, until noon on December 15, 2023.

Digital materials for public review and comment will be available on the Elementary Language Arts Basal Resource Review website. Those reviewing instructional materials may complete an electronic comment sheet that will be available on the website during the review period.

Hard copies of instructional materials will be available for review at:

Pimmit Hills Center, Room 207

7510 Lisle Avenue

Falls Church, VA 22043

Materials may be reviewed at Pimmit Hills Center Monday - Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Visitors should enter through door #4 and check in at the main office or with the building coordinator on duty.

All community feedback will be shared with the review committee and with School Board members before the vote at the School Board regular meeting.

What will your child be learning this year? 

You can visit this link on the FCPS website to see the elementary school academics by grade level.  

Glen Forest Administration:

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Principal, [email protected]

Liz Manning, Assistant Principal for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Grades - Manning, [email protected] 

Chris Musgnug, Assistant Principal for Kindergarten, 4th, and 5th Grade, [email protected]

Jessica Green, Assistant Principal for Pre-K and Special Education, [email protected]

Rashad DeMesme, Dean of Students for all Grades, [email protected]

If you have any comments, concerns, questions, or compliments, please email me at [email protected].  Thank you for sharing your children with us and for your continued partnership in their education.  

From Many, We are ONE!  Team Glen Forest!  #GFeaglessoar

Warmly, 

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Your Proud Principal

5829 Glen Forest Drive, Falls Church, VA 22041 |  Phone: 703.578.8000

Attendance: Submit Online or Call 703.578.8019 

Web | Twitter | Facebook

If you need this message in another language, please visit this link: https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1

Si necesita este mensaje en otro idioma, visite el sitio web de nuestra escuela en este enlace: https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1

اذا كننتم بحاجة ان تستلموا هذه الرسالة بلغة اخرى  فنرجوا زيارة موقع ا مدرستنا  على هذا الرابط.                  

https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1     

10/16/23

Glen Forest Families:

I hope this message finds you well.  As the fall season gracefully settles in and the leaves change colors, your children are also evolving, growing, and maturing before our eyes. It's a privilege to be a part of their journey and to witness their growth. Thank you for sharing your children with Glen Forest ES!

PTO Needs Your Help!

The PTO (Parent Teacher Organization) is a volunteer organization and can not survive without volunteers! Below are concrete ways parents can actively participate both small and large in our school:

• Help handout spirit wear
• Volunteer at the Book Fair (set up as well as help running the cash register during the day)
• Volunteer to set up or clean up at International and MultiCultural night
• Volunteer to help plant and beautify our school grounds
• Help transition our PTO and Club registration online
• Provide translation at events
• Volunteer to run a spring club
• Provide clerical help to teachers/staff
• Gather donations for Bingo Night
• Work with others to coordinate teacher appreciation (this can be as simple as agreeing to bring candy, snacks such as apples, cheese, and crackers to the break room...etc up to helping with teacher appreciation week)
• Help connect GFES with businesses or places of worship looking to donate time or money to help our school and it's community
• Leaning to replace one of our executive board members next year

We desperately need help with all of these items!  No offer is too big or too small.  Please read through this list and choose a way you can positively impact our school community.  Please contact the PTO at [email protected] if you are able to help with any of the items above.  

The next PTO meeting is Wednesday October 25 at 7:30pm.  The zoom link is below.  We hope to see you online!

 https://myfcpsk12.zoom.us/j/93477400889

Understanding the Full-Time AAP (Advanced Academic Programs) Screening Process

At this meeting, parents of 2nd-5th grade students will learn about Fairfax County’s AAP Full-Time Services Referral, Screening, and Identification Process.  There will be an Arabic and Spanish translator available.

 

When:  Tuesday, Oct 17, 2023, 6:30-7:30 PM

Where: Glen Forest Cafeteria

Attention 2nd Grade Parents: CogAT Testing Postponed

Unfortunately, the vendor’s testing platform for the CogAT assessment is experiencing nationwide technical issues. Riverside Insights, the publisher of CogAT, is aware of an issue that affected CogAT administration. Under their guidance, we are still unable to resume CogAT testing for Fairfax County Public Schools. CogAT testing for the division will resume once a resolution has been deployed by the publisher (Riverside Insights) and they have confirmed that students may resume testing. 

FCPS staff continue to collaborate with the publisher to ensure your student receives accurate results in the best testing environment possible. We have been assured by the publisher that students will be able to resume testing where they’d left off, with their remaining time allotted reflecting the point at which they were paused. Please be assured that for tests during this period which have been completed, data can be successfully submitted for reporting. All results from these test administrations can be reliably interpreted.

As with any assessment, please bear in mind that the CogAT is a single data point used within the holistic advanced academics screening process. No data points in the screening portfolio, including an ability test score, has a minimum required score or a weighted consideration in matching students to available Advanced Academic Programs (AAP) services. 

For families who feel their student needs to be considered for full-time AAP, the next step is to submit a referral form no later than December 15, 2023. Families should not wait for the completion or reporting of CogAT scores should they wish to refer their student for Full Time AAP services.

Lexia Parent Night: Learn About Literacy Support

FCPS funds Lexia for all elementary and middle schools to use as part of their literacy instruction. Lexia is a computer-based program that supplements classroom instruction to help students develop literacy skills. It also provides teachers with the data to identify students who need additional support, and the ability to know which specific concepts and skills to prioritize. Attend an information night to learn more about Lexia and how FCPS is integrating it into the classroom. Parents/caregivers will also get tips for supporting their students at home. 

Information nights will be held from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on:

• Wednesday, October 18, at Thoreau Middle School (Cafeteria).
• Thursday, October 19, at Edison High School (Auditorium).

Register to attend or submit a question in advance. 

Integrating Lexia into the literacy curriculum aligns with the Virginia Literacy Act, FCPS’ Equitable Access to Literacy, and Strategic Plan Goal 3, which aims to have all students reading on level by the end of third grade.  

Know Our Security Terms

FCPS uses specific terminology to specify the actions school staff and students should take to ensure safety in a variety of situations. It is important for staff, families, and students to understand what the different terms mean and how they impact school operations.

Watch this video to learn more about the definitions of the security terms: lockdown; secure the building; and stay put, stay tuned. If students, staff, or community members have a safety concern at school (that is not an immediate emergency), they should submit a tip to the FCPS Safety Tipline. In an emergency, please call 9-1-1. 

Wear Orange this Wednesday, October 18th!  Let's unite and wear orange to show that we stand united against bullying!

The Book Fair is coming to Glen Forest!  Mark your calendars for October 30th - November 3rd when the Scholastic Book Fair comes to the GFES library.  Our librarian, Ms. Haley Crittenden-Gordon is looking for volunteers to help set up and to help students make purchases.  Email her at hacrittende[email protected] if you are able and willing to volunteer.  Thank you!

1st Family Food Market:

This Wednesday, October 18th, is our 1st Family Food Market of the school year.  It will be held from 5:30pm - 7:00pm in the cafe at Glen Forest ES.  Thank you to the Capital Area Food Bank for the generous donations each month! 

What will your child be learning this year? 

You can visit this link on the FCPS website to see the elementary school academics by grade level.  

Glen Forest Administration:

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Principal, [email protected]

Liz Manning, Assistant Principal for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Grades - Manning, [email protected] 

Chris Musgnug, Assistant Principal for Kindergarten, 4th, and 5th Grade, [email protected]

Jessica Green, Assistant Principal for Pre-K and Special Education, [email protected]

Rashad DeMesme, Dean of Students for all Grades, [email protected]

If you have any comments, concerns, questions, or compliments, please email me at [email protected].  Thank you for sharing your children with us and for your continued partnership in their education.  

From Many, We are ONE!  Team Glen Forest!  #GFeaglessoar

Warmly, 

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Your Proud Principal

5829 Glen Forest Drive, Falls Church, VA 22041 |  Phone: 703.578.8000

Attendance: Submit Online or Call 703.578.8019 

Web | Twitter | Facebook

If you need this message in another language, please visit this link: https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1

Si necesita este mensaje en otro idioma, visite el sitio web de nuestra escuela en este enlace: https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1

اذا كننتم بحاجة ان تستلموا هذه الرسالة بلغة اخرى  فنرجوا زيارة موقع ا مدرستنا  على هذا الرابط.                  

https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1     

10/10/23

Glen Forest Families:

Please join us this Thursday, October 12th from 10:00-10:45 am in the cafe for our 2nd Family Engagement Meeting of the school year.  The topic will be GFES Orientation; all things you need to know as a parent!  Our Dean of Student, Mr. Rashad DeMesme, will be presenting and Spanish and Arabic translation will be available. We hope to see you Thursday! 

Understanding the Full-Time AAP (Advanced Academic Programs) Screening Process

At this meeting, parents of 2nd-5th grade students will learn about Fairfax County’s AAP Full-Time Services Referral, Screening, and Identification Process.  There will be an Arabic and Spanish translator available.

 

When:  Tuesday, Oct 17, 2023, 6:30-7:30 PM

Where: Glen Forest Cafeteria

Attendance Updates:  Even though our competition with Beech Tree has come to an end, our attendance rate last week was the highest yet at 96.32%.  Thank you, families, for your support in ensuring your children come to school.  The numbers tell it all...if a student misses just 2 days per month, that equals 30 hours of math instruction and 60 hours of reading and writing instruction over the course of the school year.  Attending school regularly helps children feel better about school—and themselves.

Looking for a Sponsor:  Glen Forest Eagle Running Club is looking for sponsors to support our school and runners who started training from September 26th through November 16th on completing a 5k! Our race will be November 18th, 2023! Please reach out if you know someone who would like to sponsor our club and runners!  

Don't Let Language be a Barrier: FCPS language lines are available in eight different languages to assist families who do not speak English as their first language. A school system employee will respond to your call in your preferred language within 24 hours, Monday through Friday. The caller will provide you with the requested information, arrange for you to speak with the appropriate school employee, or connect you with the resource that you are looking to find.

To use the family information phone lines please call:

Amharic: 571-423-4957

Arabic: 571-423-4952

Chinese: 571-423-4953

Farsi: 571-423-4954

Korean: 571-423-4951

Spanish: 571-423-4950

Urdu: 571-423-4955

The Book Fair is coming to Glen Forest!  Mark your calendars for October 30th - November 3rd when the Scholastic Book Fair comes to the GFES library.  Our librarian, Ms. Haley Crittenden-Gordon is looking for volunteers to help set up and to help students make purchases.  Email her at hacrittende[email protected] if you are able and willing to volunteer.  Thank you!

We Need Your Help!  If you have children who ride the bus, please remind them of the proper bus behavior expectations listed below.  Consistent messaging from home and school will help keep our students safe.  Thank you!  

 

• Stay seated  
• Use a indoor voice
• Keep hands, feet, and objects to yourself
• Use kind and appropriate language 

Zones of Regulation: At Glen Forest, we teach our students strategies to recognize emotions and how they can manage these emotions.  The Zones of Regulation organizes our feelings, states of alertness, and energy levels into four colored Zones – Blue, Green, Yellow, and Red. The simple, common language and visual structure of The Zones of Regulation helps make the complex skill of regulation more concrete for learners and those who support them. We learn to regulate our Zones to meet our goals and task demands, as well as support our overall well-being.  Ask your children about which tools they use to self-regulate in each of the zones! 

What will your child be learning this year? 

You can visit this link on the FCPS website to see the elementary school academics by grade level.  

Glen Forest Administration:

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Principal, [email protected]

Liz Manning, Assistant Principal for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Grades - Manning, [email protected] 

Chris Musgnug, Assistant Principal for Kindergarten, 4th, and 5th Grade, [email protected]

Jessica Green, Assistant Principal for Pre-K and Special Education, [email protected]

Rashad DeMesme, Dean of Students for all Grades, [email protected]

If you have any comments, concerns, questions, or compliments, please email me at [email protected].  Thank you for sharing your children with us and for your continued partnership in their education.  

From Many, We are ONE!  Team Glen Forest!  #GFeaglessoar

Warmly, 

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Your Proud Principal

5829 Glen Forest Drive, Falls Church, VA 22041 |  Phone: 703.578.8000

Attendance: Submit Online or Call 703.578.8019 

Web | Twitter | Facebook

If you need this message in another language, please visit this link: https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1

Si necesita este mensaje en otro idioma, visite el sitio web de nuestra escuela en este enlace: https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1

اذا كننتم بحاجة ان تستلموا هذه الرسالة بلغة اخرى  فنرجوا زيارة موقع ا مدرستنا  على هذا الرابط.                  

https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1     

10/2/23

Glen Forest Families:

Thank you all for your continued support with ensuring your students are in school each and every day.  Attendance is critically important for your child's academic and social-emotional growth.  In our final week of competition, we lost to Beech Tree by only two tenths of a point with an attendance rate of 95.25%.  Shout outs to Ms. Cole's 4th grade class and Ms. Sisk's 5th grade classes for 100% attendance last week.  We had a very successful September and let's keep going strong. We will celebrate our commitment to attendance tomorrow, Tuesday, with a PJ Day!  All students are invited to come to school comfy and cozy in PJs!

Our Schools, Our Future: Community Conversations Kick Off:  Join Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid for Our Schools, Our Future: A Community Conversation. Share your thoughts about FCPS and bring your questions to:

Glasgow Middle School on Tuesday, October 3, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Kilmer Middle School on Thursday, October 5, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Madison High School on Tuesday, October 24, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Location TBD on Wednesday, October 25, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Pre-registration for a Community Conversation is not required but will help us plan. Childcare and interpretation services will be provided for all events based on staff availability. 

Events are open to all. Find out about other opportunities to connect with Dr. Reid. Your voice matters! 

September 15, 2023, through October 15, 2023, is National Hispanic Heritage Month. Students deserve meaningful, sustained opportunities to learn about the experiences and contributions of Hispanic and Latin Americans year-round, and the celebration of National Hispanic American Heritage Month is an opportunity to honor these diverse and important stories.  If your family's ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America and you would like to share highlights or artifacts from your culture on our morning news show, please let Ms. Herndon-Wilson know via email and we would love for you to make an appearance! 

Looking for a Sponsor:  Glen Forest Eagle Running Club is looking for sponsors to support our school and runners who started training from September 26th through November 16th on completing a 5k! Our race will be November 18th, 2023! Please reach out if you know someone who would like to sponsor our club and runners!  

Social and Emotional Learning Screener Offered in October:

One of the ways FCPS supports the mental wellness of all students is the SEL Screener.  

The screener is offered to all students in grades 3-12 in October and again in February or March. It addresses skills like achieving goals, understanding and managing emotions, establishing and maintaining relationships with adults and peers, and making responsible decisions. 

The SEL Screener also helps students evaluate their school community’s efforts to make them feel valued, included, and supported. Screener data is used to create the learning, experiences, and environments students need to be successful. Key updates to the screener this year include:

• Different versions for students in grades 3-5 and 6-12. 
• Fewer topics with more questions to provide schools and families with more data to support planning. 
• Additional questions aligned with FCPS’ commitment to educational equity.  

SEL Screener results are sent to families via postal mail. Families who wish to opt their child out should complete the opt-out form in the Annual Notice packet or in SIS ParentVUE. 

For more information, please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage or contact your child’s school. 

The Book Fair is coming to Glen Forest!  Mark your calendars for October 30th - November 3rd when the Scholastic Book Fair comes to the GFES library.  Our librarian, Ms. Haley Crittenden-Gordon is looking for volunteers to help set up and to help students make purchases.  Email her at hacrittende[email protected] if you are able and willing to volunteer.  Thank you!

What will your child be learning this year? 

You can visit this link on the FCPS website to see the elementary school academics by grade level.  

Glen Forest Administration:

Liz Manning, Assistant Principal for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Grades - Manning, [email protected] 

Rashad DeMesme, Dean of Students for all Grades, [email protected]

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Principal, [email protected]

Chris Musgnug, Assistant Principal for Kindergarten, 4th, and 5th Grade, [email protected]

Jessica Green, Assistant Principal for Pre-K and Special Education, [email protected]

If you have any comments, concerns, questions, or compliments, please email me at [email protected].  Thank you for sharing your children with us and for your continued partnership in their education.  

From Many, We are ONE!  Team Glen Forest!  #GFeaglessoar

Warmly, 

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Your Proud Principal

5829 Glen Forest Drive, Falls Church, VA 22041 |  Phone: 703.578.8000

Attendance: Submit Online or Call 703.578.8019 

Web | Twitter | Facebook

If you need this message in another language, please visit this link: https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1

Si necesita este mensaje en otro idioma, visite el sitio web de nuestra escuela en este enlace: https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1

اذا كننتم بحاجة ان تستلموا هذه الرسالة بلغة اخرى  فنرجوا زيارة موقع ا مدرستنا  على هذا الرابط.                  

https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1     

9/25/23

Glen Forest Families:

Please join the first PTO (Parent Teacher Organization) meeting of the school year via Zoom this Wednesday, September 27th, from 7:30pm-8:00pm.  Spanish and Arabic interpretation will be available.  You can just listen or offer your ideas!  To join the meeting, please click this link:

https://myfcpsk12.zoom.us/j/98309727800

VGA Testing: In 2021, the Virginia General Assembly introduced the expectation for new state "through-year" assessments in elementary and middle schools. Beginning last school year, students in grades 3-8 take the Virginia Growth Assessment (VGA) in fall and winter. The purpose of these assessments is to measure student growth and progress in reading and mathematics content standards. Your children took the reading VGA last week and will take the math VGA this week.  These tests are not graded and are used to guide the teacher's instruction. 

Family Engagement Meeting: Our first Family Engagement meeting is this Thursday, September 28th, from 10:00-10:45 in the cafe.  The topic will be the importance of attendance and what to do if your child has school refusal.  There will be Spanish and Arabic interpretation.  We hope to see you Thursday morning!   

Attendance Competition with Beech Tree ES 

Week 3 was a tie!  Both Glen Forest and Beech Tree had a 95% attendance rate.  Great job!  More good news is that all of our classes hit the goal of 80% attendance for the week, with Ms. Madigan's 1st grade class at 100% for the second week in a row!  Ms. Lentz's preschool class also had 100% attendance this past week!

September is Attendance Awareness Month!  Thank you for your support in ensuring your child is at school if they are not sick.  If they have an appointment, please bring them to school after morning appointments or pick them up early for afternoon appointments.  If your child is demonstrating school refusal, please contact your child's teacher or guidance counselor to see how we can help.    

Let's beat Beech Tree in the final week of competition!  Goooo Eagles!!! 

What will your child be learning this year? 

You can visit this link on the FCPS website to see the elementary school academics by grade level.  

GFES Spirit Wear:  Get your Glen Forest shirts, sweatshirts and hoodies for this year!  This is our only sale of the year and ends October 1st.  Purchase online at https://stores.inksoft.com/gle080

Glen Forest Administration:

Liz Manning, Assistant Principal for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Grades - Manning, [email protected] 

Rashad DeMesme, Dean of Students for all Grades, [email protected]

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Principal, [email protected]

Chris Musgnug, Assistant Principal for Kindergarten, 4th, and 5th Grade, [email protected]

Jessica Green, Assistant Principal for Pre-K and Special Education, [email protected]

***Please note the change that Chris Musgnug is now the contact for 4th and no longer Ms. Green.***

If you have any comments, concerns, questions, or compliments, please email me at [email protected].  Thank you for sharing your children with us and for your continued partnership in their education.  

From Many, We are ONE!  Team Glen Forest!  #GFeaglessoar

Warmly, 

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Your Proud Principal

5829 Glen Forest Drive, Falls Church, VA 22041 |  Phone: 703.578.8000

Attendance: Submit Online or Call 703.578.8019 

Web | Twitter | Facebook

If you need this message in another language, please visit this link: https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1

9/18/23

Glen Forest Families:

From September 15th to October 15th, FCPS recognizes and celebrates the histories and cultures of the members of our community who trace their heritage to Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. Learn more about National Hispanic Heritage Month. 

Please join us tomorrow, Tuesday, September 19th in the school cafeteria from 6:30-7:30pm for our Advanced Academics Program (AAP) Information Night. During this session we will share information about the AAP program and answer any questions you may have. 

We look forward to seeing you there!

Mrs. Edwards and Mrs. Rothman

GFES Advanced Academic Resource Teachers

All FCPS schools and offices will be closed on Monday, September 25, for Yom Kippur, the holiest day in Judaism. See the complete school year calendar. Learn more about Yom Kippur on Brittanica.com.

Attendance Awareness Month!  Classes had a great time cashing in rewards for beating Beech Tree in the attendance competition for Week 1!  Yes, that is a pie in Principal Herndon-Wilson's face!

Week 2...So close, but we fell short in our attendance competition with Beech Tree this past week. Glen Forest had an overall 95.7% attendance rate and Beech Tree had a 96% attendance rate. The good news is that all of our classes hit the goal of 80% attendance for the week, with Ms. Cole's 4th grade class and Ms. Madigan's 1st grade class at 100%!

September is Attendance Awareness Month!  Thank you for your support in ensuring your child is at school if they are not sick.  If they have an appointment, please bring them to school after morning appointments or pick them up early for afternoon appointments.  If your child is demonstrating school refusal, please contact your child's teacher or guidance counselor to see how we can help.    

Let's beat Beech Tree again this week!  Goooo Eagles!!! 

What will your child be learning this year? 

You can visit this link on the FCPS website to see the elementary school academics by grade level.  

GFES Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) NEWS

PTO Membership Drive:  Please become a PTO member this year!  You can sign up online at www.ptaglenforest.org or by returning the blue sign up form with payment to the school.  The class in each grade level with the most sign ups by October 1st will receive a popsicle party courtesy of the PTO!

Fall Clubs:  Fall Clubs will return the week of September 25th.  The blue signup form came home on Wednesday, Sept 13th.  Clubs fill quickly!  Return the sign up form with payment  to reserve a spot.  

GFES Spirit Wear:  Get your Glen Forest shirts, sweatshirts and hoodies for this year!  This is our only sale of the year and ends October 1st.  Purchase online at https://stores.inksoft.com/gle080

GFES PTO virtual meetings:  Our first PTO meeting is Wednesday September 27th at 7:30pm.  All are welcome.  The Zoom link is https://myfcpsk12.zoom.us/j/98309727800

Meetings will be virtual on the last Wed of the month from 7:30-8pm.

Glen Forest Administration:

Liz Manning, Assistant Principal for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Grades - Manning, [email protected] 

Rashad DeMesme, Dean of Students for all Grades, [email protected]

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Principal, [email protected]

Chris Musgnug, Assistant Principal for Kindergarten, 4th, and 5th Grade, [email protected]

Jessica Green, Assistant Principal for Pre-K and Special Education, [email protected]

***Please note the change that Chris Musgnug is now the contact for 4th and no longer Ms. Green.***

If you have any comments, concerns, questions, or compliments, please email me at [email protected].  Thank you for sharing your children with us and for your continued partnership in their education.  

From Many, We are ONE!  Team Glen Forest!  #GFeaglessoar

Warmly, 

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Your Proud Principal

5829 Glen Forest Drive, Falls Church, VA 22041 |  Phone: 703.578.8000

Attendance: Submit Online or Call 703.578.8019 

Web | Twitter | Facebook

If you need this message in another language, please visit this link: https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1

9/13/23

Advanced Academic Programs (AAP) Elementary Continuum of Services

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is committed to challenging all students through talent development efforts and differentiated instruction to meet the needs of advanced learners. FCPS offers a continuum of advanced academic services for all students in Grades K-12. The continuum of services approach recognizes unique student needs and focuses on matching services, not labeling students. Through the continuum, students have:
• Multiple entry points for deeper learning opportunities in specific areas of need as they develop.
• A cluster group of students with similar academic needs to continue growing in their learning.

Teachers, Advanced Academic Resource Teachers (AARTs), and school administrators work together to provide the following levels of service at the elementary level:

Access to Rigor, Grades K-6 (Level I)
All students have opportunities to think critically, reason, and problem-solve.
• All teachers use critical and creative thinking strategies in their lessons.
• Classroom teachers provide opportunities using materials from the AAP Curriculum Framework a minimum of once per quarter.
Because Access to Rigor is for all FCPS students, there is not a screening process.

Subject Specific Advanced Differentiation, Grades K-6 (Level II)
Some students are strong in a specific subject area. Classroom teachers may adjust instruction for students in these area(s) by:
• Providing different assignments and resources in those subjects,
• Grouping students by their strengths, interests, and readiness, and
• Providing additional challenges using materials from the AAP Curriculum Framework.
Student needs for subject specific differentiation are re-evaluated each year at the local school.

Part-Time Services, Grades 3-6 (Level III)
Some students have advanced academic needs in multiple subject areas in addition to specific subject differentiation. They need part-time AAP services.
• Students work with other students that have similar academic needs through weekly pull-out classes or weekly co-taught lessons with the AART and classroom teacher.
• Teachers provide frequent opportunities to use materials from the AAP Curriculum Framework in Language Arts, science, social studies, and/or mathematics.
Part-time services continue through Grade 6. Students do not need to be evaluated each year.

Full-Time Services, Grades 3-8 (Level IV)
Some advanced learners need a full-time advanced academic program with differentiated instruction in all four core content areas (Language Arts, mathematics, social studies, and science).
Students eligible for full-time AAP services are cluster grouped on a full-time basis and receive:
• Full-time use of materials from the AAP Curriculum Framework in Language Arts, mathematics, science, and social studies, and
• Curriculum that is differentiated through acceleration, depth, and complexity of content.
Full-time services continue through Grade 8. Students do not need to be evaluated each year.

Screening for Advanced Academic Program Services
Multiple data points are reviewed holistically to determine eligibility for all FCPS advanced academic services. Committees consider student work from opportunities with AAP lessons, examples of student reasoning or gifted behaviors from class discussions and activities, progress reports, achievement and ability scores, and parent input. Committees consider whether students have access to a group of students with similar academic needs to support academic conversations and growth in the classroom. No pieces of the data are weighted in the holistic screening process.

Eligibility decisions for subject-specific advanced differentiation and part-time services are made by a committee at the local school, and screening is ongoing throughout the school year. To refer for subject-specific advanced differentiation and part-time services, submit the AAP School-Based Referral Form to the AART at the local school.

Eligibility decisions for full-time services are made by the countywide central selection committee.

Screening for full-time services occurs during specific screening cycles:
• Fall screening is available for students who are new to FCPS since January.
o The fall screening referral window is from the first day of school - October 15.
• Spring screening is available for any Grade 2-7 FCPS-enrolled student.
o The spring screening referral window is from the first day of school - December 15.

Please do not wait for test scores before submitting a referral for your student in Grades 2-7. Referrals submitted after the full-time services referral windows noted above will not be accepted.

Referral forms for all advanced academic program services are found at https://www.fcps.edu/node/38893.

For more information, please visit the AAP website at: https://www.fcps.edu/registration/advanced-academics-identification-and-placement/current-fcps-students.

Ability Testing
FCPS uses ability testing as one consideration of the holistic screening process for advanced academic services. Test scores are not weighted or prioritized in the holistic screening process.
• All students in Grade 1 take the Naglieri Nonverbal Ability Test (NNAT).
• All students in Grade 2 take the Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT).
• NNAT and/or CogAT may be administered to students in Grades 3-6 who do not have an ability test score during the regularly scheduled testing windows.
Parents or guardians may request a one-time retest of either the CogAT or the NNAT in grades 3-6. Requests must be made during the fall testing windows. Please contact the school testing coordinator Alexandra Franck by email at [email protected] no later than September 15 to request the CogAT or October 15 for the NNAT.

Elementary Parent Information Meeting
A parent information meeting will be held at Glen Forest ES on Tuesday, September 19, 2023 at 6:30pm. The AART will provide information about levels of service, explain the screening processes, and answer questions about advanced academic services.

Young Scholars
The FCPS Young Scholars model seeks to identify and affirm, from an early age, students with high academic potential from groups historically underrepresented in advanced academic programming. The goal of the model is to eliminate barriers for Young Scholars’ access to and success in advanced academic opportunities in elementary, middle, and high school.

Twice-Exceptional (2e)
Some gifted students with advanced learning needs may also have a learning disability. Twice-exceptional (or “2e”) students need strengths-based instruction while receiving advanced programming. The FCPS continuum of AAP services provides multiple entry points to meet student needs while also supporting their learning challenges. FCPS has created a 2e handbook to help schools and families understand how to identify and serve 2e students. You can find these resources by going to www.fcps.edu and searching “2e.”

Advanced Academic Programs in Middle and High School

Middle School AAP
Advanced coursework at the middle school level is open enrollment. All students are encouraged to enroll in at least one Honors course each school year in an area of strength and/or interest.

Students eligible for the full-time services have the option to attend the middle school center assigned to their address or enroll in Honors courses in the four core content areas at their base school.

High School AAP
Advanced coursework at the high school level is open enrollment. All students are encouraged to enroll in at least one Honors course beginning in Grade 9. Each high school in FCPS offers AP, IB or Dual Enrollment courses which begin in Grade 10 or 11, depending on the program and the school.

Additional information about middle and high school services may be found on the Advanced Academic Programs web page: https://www.fcps.edu/academics/academic-overview/advanced-academic-programs.

 

5829 Glen Forest Drive, Falls Church, VA 22041 |  Phone: 703.578.8000

Attendance: Submit Online or Call 703.578.8019 

Web | Twitter | Facebook

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

If you need this message in another language, please visit this link: https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1

9/12/23

Glen Forest Families,

We are in need of a representative for the Title 1 Parent Advisory Committee.  Please read the information and email Ms. Herndon-Wilson at [email protected] if you are interested.  Thank you!

What is the Title I Parent Advisory Committee?

The Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) Title I team is committed to partnering with parents in the planning and implementation of the Title I program for family engagement. The Title I Parent Advisory Committee consists of a parent representative from each FCPS school receiving Title I funds.

When does the Title I Parent Advisory Committee (TPAC) meet?

• The TPAC meets at least five times per year at the
Gatehouse Administrative Center
• Child care is provided for children ages 4 and up
• Meetings are open to the public
• Dates and locations of general meetings are posted on the

TPAC website https://www.fcps.edu/committee/title-i-
parent-advisory-committee 

• Parents may access meeting content remotely, but attendance in person is necessary for active participation and voting by parent representatives

 

What does a Title I Parent Advisory Committee Representative do?

• Learn more about the Title I grant program in Fairfax County and about family engagement initiatives taking place in other schools.
• Develop leadership and advocacy skills through partnerships with fellow parents, and school staff by sharing strategies used to foster family engagement in schools.
• Provide input into the planning and implementation of Title I family engagement programming in Fairfax County.
• Support the development of an annual school board report describing the focus of the committee during the school year, information and resources gained throughout the year, and recommendations for the next school year.
All parents in schools receiving Title I funding are invited to attend TPAC meetings.

 

5829 Glen Forest Drive, Falls Church, VA 22041 |  Phone: 703.578.8000

Attendance: Submit Online or Call 703.578.8019 

Web | Twitter | Facebook

If you need this message in another language, please visit this link: https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1

9/10/23

Glen Forest Families:

You may have heard from your child that we are having an "Attendance Competition" with one of our neighboring schools, Beech Tree ES.  Last week was the first week of the competition and Glen Forest won!  We had a 99.14% attendance rate and they had 94.6% attendance rate.  In addition, all of our classes had 80% or greater attendance rate this week!  All classes with 80% or greater will get to choose a reward; 10 minutes of extra recess, 10 minutes of a movie, or pie a principal!  If any classes pick pie the principals, we will certainly send some pictures.

September is Attendance Awareness Month!  Thank you for your support in ensuring your child is at school if they are not sick.  If they have an appointment, please bring them to school after morning appointments or pick them up early for afternoon appointments.  If your child is demonstrating school refusal, please contact your child's teacher or guidance counselor to see how we can help.    

Let's beat Beech Tree again this week!  Goooo Eagles!!! 

What will your child be learning this year? 

You can visit this link on the FCPS website to see the elementary school academics by grade level.  

Updates From the Cafe:

Chocolate chip cookies are now on sale for $1.00.  Please remind your children to not share food or ask a friend to share their food.  Thank you.  

GFES Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) NEWS

PTO Membership Drive:  Please become a PTO member this year!  You can sign up online at www.ptaglenforest.org or by returning the blue sign up form with payment to the school.  The class in each grade level with the most sign ups by October 1st will receive a popsicle party courtesy of the PTO!

Fall Picnic:  The PTO would like to welcome everyone back to school at the Fall Picnic on Thursday, September 14th from 5:30-7pm on the GFES Soccer field.  Bring a picnic for your family.  The Mr Frosty ice cream truck will be there with ice cream to purchase.

Fall Clubs:  Fall Clubs will return the week of September 25th.  Look for sign ups in your child's folder on Wednesday, Sept 13.  Clubs fill quickly!  Return the sign up form with payment  to reserve a spot.  

GFES Spirit Wear:  Get your Glen Forest shirts, sweatshirts and hoodies for this year!  This is our only sale of the year and ends October 1st.  Purchase online at https://stores.inksoft.com/gle080

GFES PTO virtual meetings:  Our first PTO meeting is Wednesday September 27th at 7:30pm.  All are welcome.  The Zoom link is https://myfcpsk12.zoom.us/j/98309727800

Meetings will be virtual on the last Wed of the month from 7:30-8pm.

Glen Forest Administration:

Liz Manning, Assistant Principal for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Grades - Manning, [email protected] 

Rashad DeMesme, Dean of Students for all Grades, [email protected]

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Principal, [email protected]

Chris Musgnug, Assistant Principal for Kindergarten and 5th Grade, [email protected]

Jessica Green, Assistant Principal for Pre-K and 4th Grade, [email protected]

If you have any comments, concerns, questions, or compliments, please email me at [email protected].  Thank you for sharing your children with us and for your continued partnership in their education.  

From Many, We are ONE!  Team Glen Forest!  #GFeaglessoar

Warmly, 

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Your Proud Principal

5829 Glen Forest Drive, Falls Church, VA 22041 |  Phone: 703.578.8000

Attendance: Submit Online or Call 703.578.8019 

Web | Twitter | Facebook

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

If you need this message in another language, please visit this link: https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1

9/5/23

Glen Forest Parents,

Please join us this Thursday evening (9/7/23) for Back-to-School Night.  Your child's teacher will share important information with you, including what they will be learning, how to support them at home, and the best way to communicate with the school.  You will also have an opportunity to meet our specialists teachers, such as PE/Health, Music, and Art, our school counselors, our English Language teachers, and many more!  This event is geared toward a parent audience, so if you are able, we encourage you to leave your students at home.  Spanish and Arabic interpretation will be available.  The detailed schedule is below:

6:00-7:00 - Kindergarten, First, and Second Grade Parents

7:15-8:15 - Third, Fourth, and Fifth Grade Parents 

Both sessions will begin in the cafe.  

We look forward to seeing you Thursday evening at Glen Forest ES!

Warmly,

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Principal 

5829 Glen Forest Drive, Falls Church, VA 22041 |  Phone: 703.578.8000

Attendance: Submit Online or Call 703.578.8019 

Web | Twitter | Facebook

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

If you need this message in another language, please visit this link: https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1

8/28/23

Hello GFES community:

Welcome to the 2023-2024 School Year!  We have another year of exciting events planned at the Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)!  In this e-mail, you can learn what the PTO is and does, how you can join (and what it means to join), when meetings will be held and what some of our plans are this year.  I am very excited to start my second year as your PTO President.  We hope to see you at our virtual (Google Meet) meetings the last Wednesday of every month starting at 7:30pm at this link: meet.google.com/duj-toot-vdn.  I can be found most mornings/afternoons at Door 4 with my my second and fifth graders- please say hi!

What is a Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)?: A PTO is a way for parents, teachers, staff and the school community to connect and support Glen Forest Elementary students and staff.  Our meetings are available to parents/guardians, staff and the community of Glen Forest Elementary.  Joining the PTO is an opportunity to meet other members of the Glen Forest Elementary community, find out what our school needs and help meet those needs

What does the Glen Forest PTO do?:  Members meet monthly to discuss the needs of the school.  In order to meet those needs, we raise money through membership, after school clubs, and special events.  Some of our special events include the Fall Picnic and Bingo Night.  The PTO uses the money we raise to pay for student field trips, teachers supplies, equipment requested by the school and teacher and student appreciation activities.  The money we raise goes directly back into Glen Forest Elementary School.

How can you join the PTO?:  You can return the blue PTO sign up form that came home in your student's folder (don't worry, you'll get another copy sent home) or sign up online on our website www.ptaglenforest.org.  This website is also a great resource for current information!  When you join the PTO, you can help in whatever way works for your schedule.  We need people to help with set up/take down at International Night and Bingo, we need help handing out supplies and items we purchase, we need help reaching out to the community to collect the items we need, but mostly we need your ideas on how to help our school!

When are meetings:   Meetings this year are virtual at this link: meet.google.com/duj-toot-vdn.  Meetings will be held the last Wednesday of the month (except December due to winter break).  All meetings will run from 7:30-8:00pm. The dates are:

Sept 27

Oct 25

Nov 29

Jan 10 (replaces Dec meeting)

Jan 31

Feb 28

March 27

April 24

May 29 (final meeting-election of officers)

Please mark your calendars with our events above, and please see our website www.ptaglenforest.org or check us out on social media for current information-  Facebook: Glen Forest Elementary School PTO and  X (formerly Twitter): @GlenForestPTO

Thank you Eagles!

Katie McGrorey, PTO President

[email protected]

5829 Glen Forest Drive, Falls Church, VA 22041 |  Phone: 703.578.8000

Attendance: Submit Online or Call 703.578.8019 

Web | Twitter | Facebook

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If you need this message in another language, please visit this link: https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1

8/21/23

Greetings Glen Forest Families,

I'm thrilled to let you know that the start of this school year has been nothing short of fantastic. The first week has been filled with engaging lessons, new friendships, and a sense of enthusiasm that's truly contagious.  As we move forward, we will work diligently to maintain this positive momentum and continue striving for excellence in both academic and social/emotional learning.  I'm excited about the learning adventures that lie ahead and can't wait to share more updates with you as the year progresses.

Thank you for sharing your children with us.  Glen Forest is a very special place and our families are one of the biggest reasons.    

Attending School is Critical to Your Child's Success:The beginning of the school year is the best time to develop strong attendance habits! Students who attend school regularly are more likely to perform well in reading and math, develop strong social and emotional skills, and graduate from high school on time. Help prepare your child for future success.

Last school year, 25% of our students were absent for 10% or more of the school year.  Working together, we can improve school attendance!  If your child is refusing school, please contact your grade level's assistant principal so that we can work with your child.  

As always, keep your child home if he/she is sick with a fever, vomiting, or diarrhea.  

Mark Your Calendars: 

No School on Friday, September 1st and Monday, September 4th in observance of Labor Day

Back To School Night, Thursday, September 7th, K-2 from 6:00-7:00, 3rd-5th from 7:15-8:15

PTO Welcome Back Picnic, Thursday, September 14th, 5:30pm-7:00pm

Parents, We Need Your Help: In order to protect teaching and learning, please remind your students to leave toys, soda & "Prime" drinks, and candy at home.  A small sweet treat in the lunchbox is okay!

If your child brings a cell phone when he/she leaves the house, it must remain in the backpack for the entirety of the school day, including while riding the bus.   

Two Action Items: 

2023 Student Rights and Responsibilities 

FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities document (SR&R) explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses to enhance school safety and to create a fair, equitable, and supportive school environment. In late June, the School Board approved changes to the SR&R for the 2023-24 school year. Updates include a revision of dress code expectations, bystander expectations for students witnessing harmful or unsafe behaviors, bullying, and substance abuse responses. Read Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid’s letter to families regarding the SR&R. 

ACTION: Parents/caregivers should talk to their child(ren) about expectations for this school year. Also, please log in to SIS ParentVUE and sign to acknowledge your review of the SR&R, or sign and return the signature sheet to your child’s school by Friday, September 29th.

Parental Permission to Use Digital Resources

Some FCPS-approved digital resources require parent consent before they can be used by students. Find the list of resources which require consent on the Parent Consent webpage.

ACTION: The Parent Consent webpage includes directions for providing permission. 

Each digital resource used in FCPS has had an instructional and technical review. Information about the educational technology tools approved for use within FCPS can be found in the online Digital Ecosystem Library.

Parents can find more information about FCPS-approved digital resources on the Digital Resources in FCPS webpage.

Lightspeed Parent Report on Child’s Device Activity

FCPS has tools to help parents know more about their child’s activity on any FCPS device. These tools are provided at no cost to families by Lightspeed, the school division’s internet content filtering service.

Parents may sign up for a weekly Parent Report, which will provide a list of the top sites your child visited. The report also offers parents the ability to sign up for free access to the Internet Use Parent Portal. Through the portal, parents may pause their child’s access to the internet on their FCPS device during non-school hours.

Learn more about Lightspeed Parent Reports.

Safety Drills During the School Year

Keeping students and staff safe is a priority for FCPS. Each school has an emergency preparedness plan to respond to incidents such as fires and tornadoes. Schools are required by state law to practice emergency drills, including lockdown drills, each year. Schools are also required to notify parents and guardians at least 24 hours before a school conducts a lockdown drill. However, schools are not required to give the specific date and time of the drill in advance. 

The first lockdown drill of the school year must take place within the first 20 days of school. Preschool and kindergarten students are exempt from practicing the first lockdown drill. 

Your child may come home and talk about their experience during the drill. We encourage you to talk with your child about the importance of being prepared for emergencies. Please review these frequently asked questions to support your students before and after school lockdown drills.Click to edit this placeholder text.

Glen Forest ES Administrative Team

Pictured from left to right:

Liz Manning, Assistant Principal for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Grades - Manning, [email protected] 

Rashad DeMesme, Dean of Students for all Grades, [email protected]

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Principal, [email protected]

Chris Musgnug, Assistant Principal for Kindergarten and 5th Grade, [email protected]

Jessica Green, Assistant Principal for Pre-K and 4th Grade, [email protected]

If you have any comments, concerns, questions, or compliments, please email me at [email protected].  Thank you for sharing your children with us and for your continued partnership in their education.  

From Many, We are ONE!  Team Glen Forest!  #GFeaglessoar

Warmly, 

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Your Proud Principal

5829 Glen Forest Drive, Falls Church, VA 22041 |  Phone: 703.578.8000

Attendance: Submit Online or Call 703.578.8019 

Web | Twitter | Facebook

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

If you need this message in another language, please visit this link: https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1

8/21/23

Greetings Glen Forest Families,

I am pleased to share that we had a great first day of school!  Tomorrow, we ask that you say good-bye at the bus stop, Kiss N Ride, or Door 4.  We would like to resume to normal school operations and get our day going.  Thank you for your understanding.              

9:08AM - Doors Open

4:05PM - Dismissal Begins

If your child is a bus rider, please be patient the first week of school as the drivers and students get used to the routes and routines.  All Pre-K and Kindergarten students must be greeted by an adult or they will be returned to the school for safety purposes.  

If your child will dismiss at Kiss N Ride, we encourage you to arrive prior to 4:05.  The students will be staged in the cafe and will be ready to come outside when your car pulls up.  If you did not receive a tag to hang in your car, we will be distributing them throughout the first week of school.  Always have this visible through your windshield to help the line move as quickly as possible.

If your child is a walker, please meet them at Door 4 in the back of the building.

Thank you!   

First Day Papers and Forms:  Your child should have come home with a folder with important papers and forms.  Please review them and return to school the ones that are asking for information.  Moving forward, these folders, that we call "Wednesday Folders," will come home each week on Wednesday.  Please check your child's backpack every Wednesday for important information.     

If you have any comments, concerns, questions, or compliments, please email me at [email protected].  Thank you for sharing your children with us and for your continued partnership in their education.  

From Many, We are ONE!  Team Glen Forest!  #GFeaglessoar

Warmly, 

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Your Proud Principal

5829 Glen Forest Drive, Falls Church, VA 22041 |  Phone: 703.578.8000

Attendance: Submit Online or Call 703.578.8019 

Web | Twitter | Facebook

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

If you need this message in another language, please visit this link: https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1

8/19/23

Greetings Glen Forest Families,

Tomorrow is the First Day of School!  The staff is Glen Forest is very excited and ready for our Eagles to arrive.  Parents, you may walk your children to their classrooms on the first day, although we ask you to make it brief so that we can begin our day.  Thank you!  

For the first week of school, there will be numerous staff members available to greet students and help them get to class.  If your child does not know their teacher, don't worry!  Staff will find out and ensure they arrive to the correct classroom.  It has been helpful in the past if our younger students arrive with their name written down, either on paper or a sticker on their shirt.         

9:08AM - Doors Open

4:05PM - Dismissal Begins

If your child will dismiss at Kiss N Ride, we encourage you to arrive prior to 4:05.  The students will be staged in the cafe and will be ready to come outside when your car pulls up.  If you did not pick up a tag to hang in your car, we will be distributing them throughout the first week of school.  Always have this visible through your windshield to help the line move as quickly as possible.

If your child is a walker, please meet them at Door 4 in the back of the building.

If your child is a bus rider, please be patient the first week of school as the drivers and students get used to the routes and routines.  All Pre-K and Kindergarten students must be greeted by an adult or they will be returned to the school for safety purposes.  Thank you!   

Bedtime Story!  Before your child goes to sleep this evening, please share this video with them.  It's me, their proud Principal, reading the book All Are Welcome.  Please know that we love all of our students, as they each are unique, special, and valued.  Every student is welcome at Glen Forest Elementary!    

https://www.wevideo.com/view/3149161100  

If you have any comments, concerns, questions, or compliments, please email me at [email protected].  Thank you for sharing your children with us and for your continued partnership in their education.  

From Many, We are ONE!  Team Glen Forest!  #GFeaglessoar

Warmly, 

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Your Proud Principal

5829 Glen Forest Drive, Falls Church, VA 22041 |  Phone: 703.578.8000

Attendance: Submit Online or Call 703.578.8019 

Web | Twitter | Facebook

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

If you need this message in another language, please visit this link: https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1

8/18/23

Good Morning Glen Forest Families,

We can't wait to see everyone today at Open House! Our staff has been working incredibly hard to prepare for your return, which you will see with your own eyes!  Come and meet your teacher and see your classroom! 

Today, 8/18:  10:00 - 11:00 am - PAC (Preschool Autism Classroom) & Preschool-Classroom-Based Open House

Today, 8/18: 1:00-1:45 Kindergarten - 2nd Grade

Today, 8/18: 2:00-2:45: 3rd - 5th Grade

During Open House, please come by the cafe.  The PTO (Parent Teacher Organization) will be there!  Come by and meet our Executive Board members and sign up to be a PTO member!

President: Katie McGrorey

Vice President: Kathleen Donovan

Treasurer: Jennifer Glacel

Recorder: Elvin Perez

What is a Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)

A PTO is a non profit group of parents, teachers and school staff.  The purpose is to connect parents and teachers of students enrolled in the school.  The group raises money to help pay for field trip buses and hold fun events both in and outside of school time to build pride in the school.  When the entire community helps support the school, kids feel more pride in their school.  These students perform better in school. 

Teacher Assignments:  Your child's teacher assignment is available in ParentVUE.  You can also find out when you arrive at Open House today.  There will be staff members able to assist you when you arrive.

If you have any comments, concerns, questions, or compliments, please email me at [email protected].  Thank you for sharing your children with us and for your continued partnership in their education.  

From Many, We are ONE!  Team Glen Forest!  #GFeaglessoar

Warmly, 

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Your Proud Principal

5829 Glen Forest Drive, Falls Church, VA 22041 |  Phone: 703.578.8000

Attendance: Submit Online or Call 703.578.8019 

Web | Twitter | Facebook