FCPS

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Bike/Roll/Walk to School Day Fun! Thank you to the officers from the FCPD Mount Vernon District for joining us!  From the Principal's Den

My Dearest Fox Family!

I hope this newsletter finds you in the best of health and in great spirits.

I pray that all our mothers had an exceptional Mother’s Day and weekend.

Many thanks to our amazing PTA and volunteers for a wonderful 2024 Teacher Appreciation Week!  WOW!

We are excited about the week ahead. We are preparing for our PTA Carnival and Silent Auction this Friday, May 17th.  We are looking for extra volunteers to help us finish strong! Please find it in your heart to step up to support this event. Link to sign up is below. TEAM—Together Each Achieves More!  I look forward to seeing you ALL here Friday night.

Wishing each of you a week filled with Amazing Grace, peace, and JOY!

~"Joy is the most magnetic force in the universe." ~ Danielle LaPorte

All the best,
Mattie S. Fallen, Ed.D.
Interim Principal

PTA Spring Carnival & Silent Auction is THIS FRIDAY

Our always popular Spring Carnival and Silent Auction will be this Friday, May 17th.Check out their website for more information for volunteering, donating baked goods, and more!

Then plan on going to the event to bid on great deals for teacher donations, restaurants, wine tastings, Six Flags, Nationals tickets, and so much more! All proceeds support the Care & Share Program, future Family Events, Teacher Appreciation, Curriculum Support and more!

Spring Carnival & Silent Auction Website

Thrilled to announce that the Fort Hunt Garden Club has made a green impact this Arbor Day! 🌱🌲 Together, we've planted trees to sow the seeds of a greener, brighter future. Let's continue to nurture and protect our environment, one tree at a time! 🌳💚 #ArborDay #GreenInitiative #FortHuntGardenClub #FCPSGet2Green #FortHuntElementarySchool #GreenSchools

K-2 Fleet Foxes Track Meet ☀️ Enjoy Learning, Fun, and Helpful Information at the Summer Extravaganza! 

Stop by Woodson High School on Saturday, June 1, 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., for the FCPS Summer Extravaganza! Families are invited to participate in engaging educational activities designed to spark curiosity and inspire growth. In addition to learning activities, enjoy tips and helpful information for families. Enjoy face painting, food, music, a moon bounce, a petting zoo, storytime, and student performances — at no cost!

Visit the Summer Extravaganza webpage for more details and register to attend. Registration is not required, but it's helpful for planning purposes.

May Awareness Events

Memorial Day Holiday - All schools and offices will be closed on Monday, May 27, for the Memorial Day holiday. Learn about the history of Memorial Day. See the complete school year calendar.

Mark Your Calendar!

May 2024

13-17 - SOL Testing
15 - PTA Birthday Books & Cupcakes
15 - Walking Wednesday
15 - PTA Meeting
17 - PTA Spring Carnival & Silent Auction

20-24 - SOL Testing 
22 - Walking Wednesday

27 - School Closed - Memorial Day Holiday
28-31 - SOL Retakes

Quick Links

• FCPS School Year Calendars
• Fort Hunt ES Parent Handbook
• Student Rights & Responsibilities
• FCPS Schoology Support
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• Educate Fairfax
• FCPS Cares 

8832 Linton Lane Alexandria, VA 22308  | Main Office: 703-619-2600

 

Attendance: 703-619-2626 | Web | X (Twitter) | Facebook

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please click on the link below. 

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, haga clic en el enlace a continuación y elija su idioma.

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | Français | Русский

Kindergarteners Learning About Ants!  From the Principal's Den

My Dearest Fox Family!

I hope this newsletter finds you in the best of health and in great spirits.

A special thank you to our PTA and staff members who showered me with beautiful gifts and well wishes for Principal Appreciation Day, May 1st.  ❤️ ❤️ ❤️

Our Second Graders and Fourth Graders had an AMAZING time on their field trips to the National Mall in Washington, DC, and Jamestown/Yorktown, VA. I think our parent chaperones and teachers were more excited than the kids. Many thanks to all who made these field trips possible and memorable for our kids.

Thank you, PTA, for sponsoring our Professional Development last week, “Collaborative Problem Solving,” with Mrs. Carolyn Haydon (pic below). The training was well received and benefited all who attended!

Important School Safety and Procedures

• School Visits - All parents, visitors, and volunteers are required to check in/out at our main office and enter/exit through Door 1. Please adhere to the guidelines below when visiting classrooms and offices throughout the school:
  • Scheduled Parent-Teacher conference: Teachers/Staff Members will greet you in the office or call the office to request that you proceed to scheduled appointment. Please wear printed visitor sticker/badge throughout your visit. After conference/meeting, please check out with the main office and exit building via Door 1.
  • Scheduled classroom observation: Email or call classroom teacher or administrator to schedule visit. Observation participants must be accompanied by an Administrator or Principal Designee.
  • School volunteers are to report to assignments as prearranged and agreed upon between teacher and volunteer or the teacher, volunteer, and administrator based on the assignment.
• Disinfectants – Did you know those disinfecting wipes we use on a daily basis to clean are not good for kids? It has been brought to our attention that disinfecting wipes/sprays contain pesticides. Effective immediately for the safety of our children, students are NOT to use disinfecting wipes to sanitize or clean in the cafeteria, classroom, or throughout the school. We are now using soapy water (spray bottles) to wash tables and cleaning cloths to dry tables in our cafeteria.
  • Staff may clean surfaces, desks, etc. with disinfecting wipes/spray. However, never in the presence of kids. Staff are encouraged to handle disinfecting wipes /spray with care (gloves highly recommended). Allow time to dry before handling surfaces. Wash hands thoroughly after use.
  • Students should only use soapy water and paper towels when cleaning desktops, etc.
• Arrival and Dismissal Traffic and Kiss- N-Ride Reminders - Please and Thank You! For the Safety of ALL . . .Adhere to speed limits on Linton Lane and in Kiss-N-Ride Line. Please slow down!
  • Follow all safety guidelines and pedestrian crossings rules.
  • Pay attention to the Crossing Guard—STOP when asked to do so.
  • Follow traffic patterns and directions of Kiss N- Ride Staff.

Please join me and Mrs. Settel in honoring our amazing staff for Teacher Appreciation Week!

"A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops." ~ Henry Brooks Adams

"A teacher takes a hand, opens a mind, and touches a heart." ~ Unknown

Wishing you a glorious week filled with AMAZING Grace, Peace, JOY, and Kindness!

All the best,
Mattie S. Fallen, Ed.D.
Interim Principal

Dr. Fallen and Carolyn Haydon

Bike to School Day is THIS Wednesday, May 8th

FHES will be celebrating National Bike & Roll to School Day on May 8th. Flyers went home in last week's Wednesday Folders. There is a map of our Meet Up locations where students and staff can walk/ride to school together. Our bus students will get to participate by walking to school from a different bus drop off location and our Kiss & Ride students will get to walk from 2 different drop off locations (there will be no one to meet students at the school Kiss & Ride area). End of the day dismissal will be normal routines.

Bike Month has been celebrated since 1956 to showcase the many benefits of bicycling and encourage more people to give biking a try. Fairfax County has an extensive network of both paved and natural surface bike trails. You can access a map to all the trails in Fairfax county online.

PTA Spring Carnival & Silent Auction

Save the Date!  Our always popular Spring Carnival and Silent Auction will be on Friday, May 17th.Work has begun for our Spring Carnival and Silent Auction and the PTA needs your help! Check out their website for more information for volunteering, donating baked goods, and more!

Then plan on going to the event to bid on great deals for teacher donations, restaurants, wine tastings, Six Flags, Nationals tickets, and so much more! All proceeds support the Care & Share Program, future Family Events, Teacher Appreciation, Curriculum Support and more!

Spring Carnival & Silent Auction Website

Beautiful Days for the 2nd Grade Field Trip to the National Mall and the 4th Grade Field Trip to Jamestown and Yorktown 6th Grade Memory Book Shout Outs

Every year, parents and 6th grade teachers put together a Memory Book just for our 6th graders. Use this form to have a shout-out (like a yearbook ad) to your favorite 6th grader(s) included in the memory book! Please share with any relatives or friends who might want to submit one. Proceeds go towards printing costs for the books, and the end of the year party. 

Use this link for the order form to order a Shout Out.  Shout Outs are DUE BY: Monday, May 6th.

Hybla Valley Community Market

Get your fresh produce fix at Hybla Valley Community Market, offering herbs, flowers, fruits, and vegetables from Arcadia, along with eggs, meats, and honey sourced from Arcadia Veteran Farmers Program graduates. Visit Tuesdays 4-5:30pm and Saturdays 11am-1pm at Hybla Valley Community Center from May through August. Additionally, find them at Gum Springs Community Center on May 16th, June 13th, and July 11th from 12-2pm. 

SNAP/EBT is worth double at these markets! 

Hybla Valley Community Market - 7950 Audubon Avenue, Alexandria
Gum Springs Community Center - 8100 Fordson Road, Alexandria

Fort Hunt and FCPS Get2Green Garden Harvest Success! 🩹 Required Immunizations for
Rising 7th and 12th Graders

Immunizations are required for all students entering 7th and 12th grades this fall. Visit the FCPS immunization webpage to learn about the required vaccines.  Caregivers should ask their private healthcare provider or the health department to review their student's immunization record to ensure that their student has received these required immunizations. 

It is important to schedule immunizations early in the summer, as seventh-grade students must submit documentation of the Tdap and Meningococcal vaccines before they begin school in August. Twelfth-grade students must submit documentation of the Meningococcal vaccine. Get more information on all student immunization requirements.

💪 Let's Finish the School Year Strong! Student attendance at school is important all year long, up to the last day of school. Attendance has an effect on student performance and on school accreditation. See how to:

• Check your child’s attendance record.
• Help your student stay engaged at school.
• Report future absences.
• Understand the FCPS school calendar.

Learn more about attendance resources. 

Pre-K Application Process

FCPS PreK and Early Head Start programs provide a high-quality early learning experience for qualifying children with economic and educational risk factors ages 6 weeks to 4 years living in Fairfax County. 

• Pre-K prioritizes 4-year-old applicants but also accepts applications for children 3 years old by September 30.

• Early Head Start is located at Stratford Landing — and accepts applications from pregnancy to 2 years old.

Families are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, however space is limited and provided based on need, not “first come, first serve.” 

Applications are accepted online, by email, or by mail or in person at our office at 7423 Camp Alger Avenue, Falls Church, Virginia 22042.  

If you a have question about the application process or status, please call 703-208-7900 (English) or 703-208-7901 (Spanish).

May Awareness Events

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month - People with ancestral roots in Asia and the islands of the Pacific have been integral to the story of America. In 1992, May was designated Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month to celebrate their heritage and contributions.Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.

Jewish American Heritage Month - May is a national month of recognition of the history of Jewish contributions to American culture, acknowledging the diverse achievement of the Jewish community in the U.S. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.

Mark Your Calendar!

May 2024

6-10 - Teacher Appreciation Week
6-10 - SOL Testing 
6 - K-2 Fleet Foxes Track Meet
8 - Bike to School Day
8 - School Nurse Day - Thank You Ms. Irvings!
8 - Walking Wednesday
9 - 3-6 Grade Fleet Foxes Track Meet

13-17 - SOL Testing
15 - PTA Birthday Books & Cupcakes
15 - Walking Wednesday
15 - PTA Meeting
17 - PTA Spring Carnival & Silent Auction

Quick Links

• FCPS School Year Calendars
• Fort Hunt ES Parent Handbook
• Student Rights & Responsibilities
• FCPS Schoology Support
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• Educate Fairfax
• FCPS Cares 

8832 Linton Lane Alexandria, VA 22308  | Main Office: 703-619-2600

 

Attendance: 703-619-2626 | Web | X (Twitter) | Facebook

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please click on the link below. 

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, haga clic en el enlace a continuación y elija su idioma.

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | Français | Русский

6th Graders at Gettysburg  From the Principal's Den

My Dearest Fox Family!

I hope this newsletter finds you in the best of health and in great spirits. Wherever you were and whatever you did this past weekend, I hope you danced to the rhythm of the raindrops amongst the cool breeze on Saturday and enjoyed the warm summerlike Sunday rays. Wow! Just like that and in a blink of an eye April has come and almost gone, and May is waiting to burst on the scene. 

Thank you for showing such appreciation and kindness to our wonderful office staff for Professional Administrative Assistants’ Week! They were truly showered with many expressions of love.

We had a very eventful week--our Sixth Graders had an AWESOME time on their trip to Gettysburg (picture above), and we had a huge turnout for our Kindergarten Orientation last Thursday. Many excited parents and future Fur-Tastic Foxes attended the informational session. Last week, we also had an amazing time celebrating Earth Day and reflecting on all that we need to do to respect, preserve, and honor our beautiful planet.

This week we begin SOL assessments! We are excited for our students to show their thinking and learning. Second Graders are headed to the National Mall in Washington, DC, and our Fourth Graders are headed to Jamestown, VA.

Please remember that Friday, May 3rd is a Student Holiday! School will be closed for students in honor of Orthodox Good Friday.

“Many hands make the work light!” A special thanks to all who volunteer to help support our school community. Wishing you an amazing week filled with joy!

"~Misery might love company, but so does Joy. And Joy throws much better parties." ~ Billy Ivey

All the best,
Mattie S. Fallen, Ed.D.
Interim Principal

Orthodox Good Friday
Teacher Work Day

Friday, May 3, is Orthodox Good Friday, and a teacher work day. Millions of Orthodox Christians commemorate Good Friday, also known as “Great Friday” to remember the events leading up to Jesus' crucifixion. There will be no school for students that day. See the complete school year calendar.

PTA Spring Carnival & Silent Auction

Save the Date!  Our always popular Spring Carnival and Silent Auction will be on Friday, May 17th. The time to plan for our Spring Carnival and Silent Auction is now! The PTA needs your help. Check out their website for more information for volunteering, donating baked goods, and more!

Then plan on going to the event to bid on great deals for teacher donations, restaurants, wine tastings, Six Flags, Nationals tickets, and more! All proceeds support the Care & Share Program, future Family Events, Teacher Appreciation, Curriculum Support and more!

Spring Carnival & Silent Auction Website

Pictures from the 5th Grade Trip to the National Mall and
the 6th Grade Trip to Gettysburg 6th Grade Memory Book Shout Outs

Every year, parents and 6th grade teachers put together a Memory Book just for our 6th graders. Use this form to have a shout-out (like a yearbook ad) to your favorite 6th grader(s) included in the memory book! Please share with any relatives or friends who might want to submit one. Proceeds go towards printing costs for the books, and the end of the year party. 

Use this link for the order form to order a Shout Out.  Shout Outs are DUE BY: Monday, May 6th.

☎️ Parent Information Phone Lines Available in Eight Languages

Parents/caregivers who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese may call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS. View the list of phone numbers.

May Awareness Events

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month - People with ancestral roots in Asia and the islands of the Pacific have been integral to the story of America. In 1992, May was designated Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month to celebrate their heritage and contributions.Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.

Jewish American Heritage Month - May is a national month of recognition of the history of Jewish contributions to American culture, acknowledging the diverse achievement of the Jewish community in the U.S. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.

Bike to School Day is Wednesday, May 8th

FHES will be celebrating National Bike & Roll to School Day on May 8th. Flyers will go home in this week's Wednesday Folders. There is a map of our Meet Up locations where students and staff can walk/ride to school together. Our bus students will get to participate by walking to school from a different bus drop off location and our Kiss & Ride students will get to walk from 2 different drop off locations (there will be no one to meet students at the school Kiss & Ride area). End of the day dismissal will be normal routines.

Bike Month has been celebrated since 1956 to showcase the many benefits of bicycling and encourage more people to give biking a try. Fairfax County has an extensive network of both paved and natural surface bike trails. You can access a map to all the trails in Fairfax county online.

Mark Your Calendar!

April 2024

29 - SOL Testing Begins This Week

May 2024
1 - School Principal's Day -Thank You Dr. Fallen!
1 - Walking Wednesday
2 - School Lunch Hero Day (Observed) - Thank You to our Cafeteria Team!
3 - Student Holiday - Teacher Workday - Orthodox Good Friday

6-10 - Teacher Appreciation Week
6-10 - SOL Testing 
6 - K-2 Fleet Foxes Track Meet
8 - Bike to School Day
8 - School Nurse Day - Thank You Ms. Irvings!
8 - Walking Wednesday
9 - 3-6 Grade Fleet Foxes Track Meet

Quick Links

• FCPS School Year Calendars
• Fort Hunt ES Parent Handbook
• Student Rights & Responsibilities
• FCPS Schoology Support
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• Educate Fairfax
• FCPS Cares 

8832 Linton Lane Alexandria, VA 22308  | Main Office: 703-619-2600

 

Attendance: 703-619-2626 | Web | X (Twitter) | Facebook

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please click on the link below. 

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, haga clic en el enlace a continuación y elija su idioma.

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | Français | Русский

 From the Principal's Den

My Dearest Fox Family!

I hope this newsletter finds you in the best of health and in great spirits.  Last week was busy and buzzing with excitement in regard to our Band, Chorus, and Strings Concerts!  Wow—what talented kids we have at Fort Hunt!  We also had an amazing time last Wednesday at our PTA meeting/STEM Night. Thanks to all staff, parents, and guest presenters who help make this event successful. This week we are gearing up to celebrate Mother Earth! Traditionally April 22nd is Earth Day, but we are engaging in many color schemes as a reminder of the importance of taking care of Mother Earth. Established in 1970, Earth Day offers an opportunity to highlight environmental issues and the work being done to protect the planet from pollution, disforestation, and other threats. The theme for 2024 is focused on the threat plastics pose to the environment. Let’s ALL do our part to make a difference. “The Earth has enough resources to meet the needs of all but not enough to satisfy the greed of even one person.” Mahatma Gandhi

Wednesday, April 24th, is National Administrative Professionals' Day, also known as Secretaries’ Day or Administrative Assistants’ Day.  This special day recognizes the professionals who keep an office running smoothly every day. We generally celebrate these professionals on the Wednesday of the last full week in April of each year. This special day recognizes the work of secretaries, administrative assistants, receptionists, and other administrative support professionals. Central to any business, these professionals keep an office organized and efficient. Please join me in thanking our Administrative Professionals at Fort Hunt:

• Debbie Trenchard – Administrative Assistant
• Tracy Hutchison – Office Assistant
• Rosa Dobarco – Student Information Assistant
• Sarah Lee – Office Assistant/Receptionist

Have an AMAZING week filled with love, peace, and kindness.

All the best,
Mattie S. Fallen, Ed.D.
Interim Principal

Honoring our Fort Hunt Military Children

During our Dress in Your Favorite Military Colors Day, some of our 2nd and 3rd graders embraced the day by hosting a little Boot Camp. Each group decided to do Basic Training with their "troops". 2nd grade played Navy Seals and 3rd grade played Army. 

Care and Share Thank Yous!

Thank you to the families of the Plymouth Haven Christian Preschool who hosted their annual food drive to support the distribution of Spring Break food packages for our Care & Share families. The Plymouth Haven families provided our Care & Share students with extra nourishment during our 7-day break.  Thank you for your continued support from year to year!

Thank you to the Iota Epsilon Sigma Alumnae Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. (pictured above) in Woodbridge who donated 150 Food 4 Thought packages to our Care & Share Program.  As a result of their generosity, we can add the families who expressed need in the Family Assistance Survey to the distribution for the remainder of the school year.  Thank you, Ladies, for your continued support of our students! 

Resources for Families

Bridge to Kindergarten (B2K) is designed to support preschool students with building executive functioning skills and routines to help them transition into kindergarten. Fairfax County Public Schools will be conducting this free 3-week program in the summer starting July 8th. Please see flyer below for additional information. Video: What is Bridge to Kindergarten?

The Community Services Board is hosting a Celebration of Acceptance event dedicated to children's mental health awareness and inclusion on May 3, 2024, from 12:00 to 3:00pm at James Lee Community Center. Let's foster acceptance and support for children's mental health journeys together. 

Come celebrate green living with Supervisor Stork's 6th Annual Environment Expo on Saturday, April 27. This eco-conscious event will be held from 11am to 3pm at Fort Hunt Park, Pavilion A in Alexandria. Enjoy live music, delicious food, wildlife showcases, electric vehicle demos, crafts, and activities for the whole family. 

Strings, Band and Chorus Spring Concerts 6th Grade Memory Book Shout Outs

Every year, parents and 6th grade teachers put together a Memory Book just for our 6th graders. Use this form to have a shout-out (like a yearbook ad) to your favorite 6th grader(s) included in the memory book! Please share with any relatives or friends who might want to submit one. Proceeds go towards printing costs for the books, and the end of the year party. 

Use this link for the order form to order a Shout Out.  Shout Outs are DUE BY: Monday, May 6th.

PTA Meeting and STEM Night - Thank you to our Chief of Schools, Dr. Ponce for joining us! April Awareness Events

Get2Green is hosting FCPS Earth Week April 22-26, 2024. The themes for Earth Week are:

Monday, April 22 - wear green for Earth Day
Tuesday, April 23 - wear blue for Watershed Day
Wednesday, April 24 - wear white for Zero Waste Day
Thursday, April 25 - wear red for Climate Change Day
Friday, April 26 - wear a nature print for Wildlife Day

Check the Get2Green Earth Week webpage for more information.

Monday, April 22, and Tuesday, April 23, are designated half-O days in recognition of the first two days of Passover. Half-O days are full school days, but important events will not be held after school on those days. See the complete school year calendar.

Wednesday, April 24, is designated as an O day for Theravada New Year. The school calendar recognizes many religious and cultural observances (O days) during the school year. There is school on these days, however tests, quizzes, field trips, graduation, homecoming, or FCPS-scheduled athletic events will not be held on these observance days.

Orthodox Good Friday/Teacher Work Day

Friday, May 3, is Orthodox Good Friday, and a teacher work day. Millions of Orthodox Christians commemorate Good Friday, also known as “Great Friday” to remember the events leading up to Jesus' crucifixion. There will be no school for students that day. See the complete school year calendar.

Mark Your Calendar!

April 2024

22-26 - Earth Week
22 - Earth Day - Wear Green
23 - Watershed Day - Wear Blue
24 - Zero Waste Day - Wear White
24 - Walking Wednesday
24 - Administrative Professionals Day
25 - Climate Change Day - Wear Red
25 - Kindergarten Orientation 
26 - Wildlife Day - Wear Animal Print

29 - SOL Testing Begins This Week

May 2024
1 - School Principal's Day
1 - Walking Wednesday
2 - School Lunch Hero Day (Observed)
3 - Student Holiday - Teacher Workday - Orthodox Good Friday

Quick Links

• FCPS School Year Calendars
• Fort Hunt ES Parent Handbook
• Student Rights & Responsibilities
• FCPS Schoology Support
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• Educate Fairfax
• FCPS Cares 

8832 Linton Lane Alexandria, VA 22308  | Main Office: 703-619-2600

 

Attendance: 703-619-2626 | Web | X (Twitter) | Facebook

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please click on the link below. 

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, haga clic en el enlace a continuación y elija su idioma.

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | Français | Русский

 From the Principal's Den

Greetings Fort Hunt Family!

We hope this newsletter finds you in the best of health and in great spirits.  A special thanks to all of you who helped us find “Spring!” She has appeared in full effect, and we are enjoying her warm weather, sun, and beautiful blooms on our flowers and trees. Spring reminds us of hope and new life. Jim Carey said it best, “Flowers don’t worry about how they’re going to bloom.  They just open up and turn toward the light and that makes them beautiful.” May the beautiful blooms all around us remind us of the good things in life.

It’s Purple Up! month!  This week, we are celebrating our military children. Please join me in honoring all of our military families--and remember that our children serve too!  Thank you, military families—current and veterans for standing up for our freedoms both home and abroad, during war time and peace. We are grateful for your courage, your sacrifice, and your love.  

Wishing each of you an amazing and blessed week filled with joy, peace, and hope! 

All the best,
Mattie S. Fallen, Ed.D.
Interim Principal

Purple Up! for Military Children

April is the Month of the Military Child, and this year Wednesday, April 17th, is Purple Up! Day. There are currently more than 14,000 military-connected students enrolled in Fairfax County schools. Here at Fort Hunt we have 121 military-connected students.  That’s almost 22% of our school!

This month-long celebration of our military-connected students raises awareness and thanks them for their service as part of a military family.

This week is FHES Purple Up! Spirit Week:

- Tuesday – Wear Red, White & Blue
- Wednesday – Purple Up! Day – Wear Purple & Military-Connected Students Only Recognition Breakfast
- Thursday – Wear your favorite military branch colors
- Friday – PJ Day

The Military Child Education Coalition (MCEC) invites military-connected children to showcase their experiences, dreams, and challenges through art.

The MCEC Call for the Arts program provides military-connected students a platform to explain what being a military-connected child means to them through any medium such as writing, painting, and performance.   

Winners will receive an invitation to the MCEC Global Summit in Washington, DC, from July 29-31, 2024, along with an Amazon gift card and recognition on MCEC’s social media and website!  

The MCEC Call for the Arts is open to students in grades K-12.  All entries and release forms must be received by April 30, 2024.  For more information and to download the entry and release form, please visit MCEC The Call for the Arts.  

Opportunities offered by organizations other than Fairfax County Public Schools are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or a specific school. Students should gain permission from their parent or guardian before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity and families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any enrichment opportunity they may use before participating.

 Community Forums on
Middle School Start Times

Fairfax County Public Schools is exploring options for adjusting middle school start times and invites the public to be part of the process. All forums will deliver the same presentation and provide the same feedback opportunities. Please attend the event that works best for your schedule: 

• Monday, April 29, 6-8 p.m., at Glasgow Middle School. 
• Monday, May 6, 6-8 p.m., at Whitman Middle School.
• Monday, May 20, 6-8 p.m., at Hughes Middle School.
• Wednesday, May 22, 6-8 p.m., at Frost Middle School. 

Registration is not required but does help with planning. Click one of the dates above to register. Language interpretation and childcare will be provided. Learn more about the project exploring middle school start times.

Fairfax County Health Dept. and FCPS School Health Services Survey

The Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD) and Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) School Health Services invites parents/guardians of FCPS students to participate in a survey requesting feedback on the level of satisfaction with School Health services provided to the school community.

FCHD employs school health aides and public health nurses who provide school health services to the students in FCPS. To determine the quality of these services, a survey has been developed by the FCHD to be shared with all parents or guardians who interact with the school health rooms. The survey will open on April 15, 2024 and will remain open until April 26, 2024. The survey should take approximately five minutes to complete.

Submit your survey using this link or use the QR code above. 

Family Summit Designed to Enhance Safety, Security, and Inclusion

The FCPS Family Summit will take place on Saturday, April 20, 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m., at Marshall High School. The conference will cover topics that are helpful for all families such as raising resilient, independent children; forming meaningful connections with children; addressing big emotions; and the dangers of opioids and fentanyl. Participants may also join online sessions, which will provide supports for students with disabilities and their families. 

Visit the Family Summit webpage to learn about the guest speakers and to register for the event. The theme — Safe, Supported, and Included — aligns with Goal 2 of FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan.

FHES Students Safely Watch the Eclipse April Awareness Events

Passover and Half-O Days - Many Jewish communities in the United States celebrate Passover, a recognition of the deliverance of Jewish people from slavery in Egypt. Passover is also known as Pesah, Pesach, or the Feast of Unleavened Bread. Many Jewish families in the United States eat a ceremonial meal known as the Seder, which involves telling the story of the exodus from Egypt as well as eating various symbolic foods, such as meat of the paschal lamb and bitter herbs, recalling the harsh life of slavery. Learn more about Passover in NatGeo Kids. 

Monday, April 22, and Tuesday, April 23, are designated half-O days in recognition of the first two days of Passover. Half-O days are full school days, but important events will not be held after school on those days. See the complete school year calendar.

Theravada New Year (O Day) - In countries where Theravada Buddhism is the most dominant religion, New Year is celebrated for three days from the first full moon in April. Theravada means “the teachings of the elders.” Celebrations begin with people attending the local temple in the morning for chanting and meditation. In the afternoon they have a water festival in which they meet the Buddha image and pay respect to the elderly by watering their hands together. Building sandcastles is also one of the most popular activities during this day of celebration. Wednesday, April 24, is designated as an O day for Theravada New Year. The school calendar recognizes many religious and cultural observances (O days) during the school year. There is school on these days, however tests, quizzes, field trips, graduation, homecoming, or FCPS-scheduled athletic events will not be held on these observance days. See the complete school year calendar.

Administrative Professionals Day - Wednesday, April 24

Mark Your Calendar!

April 2024

15 - Purple Up! for Military Children Week
16 - Wear Red, White & Blue
16 - Strings Spring Concert
17 - PTA April Birthday Books & Cupcakes
17 - Purple Up! Day - Wear Purple & Military-Connected Students Only Recognition Breakfast
17 - Report Cards Go Home
17 - Walking Wednesday
18 - Wear Your Favorite Military Branch Colors
18 - Band/Chorus Spring Concert
19 - Pajama Day

22-26 - Earth Week
22 - Earth Day - Wear Green
23 - Watershed Day - Wear Blue
24 - Zero Waste Day - Wear White
24 - Walking Wednesday
24 - Administrative Professionals Day
25 - Climate Change Day - Wear Red
25 - Kindergarten Orientation 
26 - Wildlife Day - Wear Animal Print

Quick Links

• FCPS School Year Calendars
• Fort Hunt ES Parent Handbook
• Student Rights & Responsibilities
• FCPS Schoology Support
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• Educate Fairfax
• FCPS Cares 

8832 Linton Lane Alexandria, VA 22308  | Main Office: 703-619-2600

 

Attendance: 703-619-2626 | Web | X (Twitter) | Facebook

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please click on the link below. 

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, haga clic en el enlace a continuación y elija su idioma.

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | Français | Русский

 From the Principal's Den

Greetings Fort Hunt Family!

We hope this newsletter finds you in the best of health and in great spirits.  Has anyone seen Spring 2024? Perhaps the anticipated total solar eclipse today will usher her in this evening. I welcome the warmer weather.

Last week was National Assistant Principals’ Appreciation Week. We had a great time showing Mrs. Patty Settel how much we appreciate the wonderful relationships she has built and the great job she is doing for our Fox Den.

With a heavy heart and supportive spirit, we bid farewell to our beloved Instructional Coach, Krystal Styles. Ms. Styles will be leaving us Friday, April 12, 2024. She has been promoted to Assistant Principal and will be joining the Haycock Elementary Family effective Monday, April 15, 2024.

With just 45 school days left this year, the staff and I are committed to the following: resetting our practices in order to address the important work that we do to support teaching and learning within a positive school culture; reflecting on our why as a reminder of the reason we chose to do this important work, and reaching for a strong finish for the 2023-24 year!  Together we are Fort Hunt Strong!

Wishing each of you an amazing and blessed week filled with joy, peace, and hope! 

All the best,
Mattie S. Fallen, Ed.D.
Interim Principal

Safely View Today's
Total Solar Eclipse

A total solar eclipse will occur TODAY, and will be viewable, depending on weather, in Fairfax County. The eclipse will begin in our area around 2:04 p.m. and end around 4:32 p.m., with the maximum eclipse occurring around 3:20 p.m.  

Because the timing overlaps with dismissal, it is crucial that students understand the importance of safe viewing practices. We encourage families to review these Solar Eclipse Resources, especially the eye safety information. We hope everyone takes the opportunity to learn more about this extraordinary natural phenomenon while prioritizing safe solar viewing.

Calendar Reminder: Eid al-Fitr Holiday - April 10 -
School Closed

In Islam, Eid-al-Fitr is a three-day festival to mark the end of Ramadan. Tuesday, April 9, is an evening observance day. There is school on this day, but important events will not be held after school. Wednesday, April 10, is an FCPS holiday; all schools and offices will be closed. See the school year calendar.

Last Chance to Order Your Yearbook!

Mr. Green has been working hard on putting together a wonderful yearbook for Fort Hunt.

Order yours today! 

You can order online using the school yearbook ID code: 14445624. Yearbooks are $18 each. The deadline to order a yearbook is April 12th. 

FCPS T-Shirt/FHES T-Shirt Last Day to Order FHES Purple Up! T-Shirts is TOMORROW, April 9th 

FCPS and FHES are gearing up to honor and celebrate our military-connected youth in April, the Month of the Military Child and on Purple Up! Day! 

This is a time for our community to come together and wear purple as a visible gesture of support, gratitude, and appreciation for our military-connected youth and their families. Purple symbolizes the combined colors of all branches of the military. 

Fort Hunt ES PTA Purple Up! t-shirts are available for purchase now through Tuesday, April 9, 2024 here.  (Please Note: The FCPS T-shirt is no longer available for purchase.) 

You can wear your Purple Up! t-shirt or anything purple on Wednesday, April 17th for Purple Up! Day. 

Purple Up! for Military Children

April is the Month of the Military Child, and this year Wednesday, April 17th, is Purple Up! Day. There are currently more than 14,000 military-connected students enrolled in Fairfax County schools. Here at Fort Hunt we have 121 military-connected students.  That’s almost 22% of our school!

This month-long celebration of our military-connected students raises awareness and thanks them for their service as part of a military family.

The week of April 15 will be FHES Purple Up! Spirit Week:

- Tuesday – Wear Red, White & Blue
- Wednesday – Purple Up! Day – Wear Purple & Military-connected Students Recognition Breakfast
- Thursday – Wear your favorite military branch colors
- Friday – PJ Day

Stay tuned for announcements for activities and events to come throughout the month of April!

Lost and Found Items Will Be
Donated Next Week

Our Lost and Found area is very, very full of lost items. If your student is missing something, please come take a look. All items left by the end of the day on Friday, April 12th will be packed up and donated. 

Advanced Academic Programs (AAP)
Screening Services

FCPS is committed to challenging all students through talent development and differentiated instruction to meet the needs of advanced learners. Students can be screened for subject specific and part time AAP services at any time during the school year. In the spring, schools review data on all students to determine services for the start of the next school year. 

For more information about the program, please visit the AAP website or email our Fort Hunt AART, Preshion Lynch at [email protected]. 

 Community Forums on
Middle School Start Times

Fairfax County Public Schools is exploring options for adjusting middle school start times and invites the public to be part of the process. All forums will deliver the same presentation and provide the same feedback opportunities. Please attend the event that works best for your schedule: 

• Monday, April 29, 6-8 p.m., at Glasgow Middle School. 
• Monday, May 6, 6-8 p.m., at Whitman Middle School.
• Monday, May 20, 6-8 p.m., at Hughes Middle School.
• Wednesday, May 22, 6-8 p.m., at Frost Middle School. 

Registration is not required but does help with planning. Click one of the dates above to register. Language interpretation and childcare will be provided. Learn more about the project exploring middle school start times.

Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award Nomination Window is Open

Nominations are open for the 2024 Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award.  The Minority Student Achievement Oversight Committee (MSAOC) sponsors this award to honor the legacy of Dr. Bussey, a founding member of the MSAOC and a longtime advocate for students and families.  

This award recognizes staff or community members who have demonstrated significant and impactful efforts to improve the educational experiences and outcomes of students from groups who are marginalized or underserved.

Any FCPS employee, student, or community member can nominate an individual or group for the award. All nomination materials must be submitted by Wednesday, May 1, 2024.  The winner will be recognized at the FCPS Equity Symposium on Tuesday, June 18th.

Full details and the nomination information form can be found at the Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award website

📖 Lexia Parent Night: How We Help Your Child Learn to Read

Attend a virtual information night to learn about Lexia on Tuesday, April 9, at 6:30 p.m. Participants will discover how FCPS is integrating this program into the classroom to support student literacy growth. Tips for supporting students at home will also be shared. Integrating Lexia into the literacy curriculum aligns with the Virginia Literacy Act, FCPS’ Equitable Access to Literacy, and FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan Goal 3, which aims to have all students reading on level by the end of third grade.

April Awareness Events

Month of the Military Child - April is the Month of the Military Child! Every year we take the opportunity to recognize military-connected youth for their service and contribution to our community. Fairfax County Public Schools is proud to have over 14,000 military-connected youth as a part of our student body. We appreciate the varied life experiences they bring to our school community, and recognize their strength and resilience. Learn more about Month of the Military Child and FCPS’ resources for military families.

National Arab American Heritage Month - FCPS is proud to celebrate National Arab American Heritage Month in April. This special month provides an opportunity to recognize the history and valuable contributions of Arab Americans. Arab Americans have ancestry in one of the world’s 22 Arab nations, which are located from northern Africa through western Asia. The people of these nations are ethnically, politically, and religiously diverse but share a common cultural and linguistic heritage. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.

Muslim American Heritage Month - Muslim American Heritage Month is a time for celebrating the history, contributions, culture, and an enhanced understanding of the diverse population of Muslim Americans. View the Fairfax County School Board resolution honoring Muslim American Heritage Month.

School Library Month - In FCPS libraries, students develop knowledge and skills, experience a sense of belonging, find inspiration and support, and have the ability to freely pursue their personal interests and academic growth. Watch this video to learn how FCPS librarians make a difference.

Autism Acceptance Month - One in 44 children is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder in the United States, according to the CDC. Our schools and staff play a vital role in creating and ensuring inclusive environments that accommodate and affirm autistic students.

Mathematics and Statistics Awareness Month
National Poetry Month

Register Today for the FCPS Family Summit

Registration is open for the FCPS Family Summit, which will take place on Saturday, April 20, 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m., at Marshall High School. The conference will cover topics that are helpful for all families, such as social-emotional resources, along with a specially curated online component to provide supports for students with disabilities and their families.

Some of the topics include raising resilient, independent children; forming meaningful connections with children; addressing big emotions; and the dangers of opioids and fentanyl. The theme — Safe, Supported, and Included — aligns with Goal 2 of FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan.

Greater Mount Vernon Head Start

The Greater Mount Vernon Head Start program is looking to enroll students ages 3 and 4. They encourage families to visit their location at 8100 Fordson Road in Alexandria or contact Alexis Grant (ERSEA Manager) at 703-324-2467 for more information.

Mark Your Calendar!

April 2024

1-30 - Autism Awareness Month
1-30 - Month of the Military Child
8 - Solar Eclipse
8-12 - National Library Week
9 - Last Day to order FHES Purple Up! T-shirts
10 - Eid al Fitr - SCHOOL CLOSED
12 - Last Day to Order Yearbooks

15 - Purple Up! for Military Children Week
16 - Wear Red, White & Blue
16 - Strings Spring Concert
17 - PTA April Birthday Books & Cupcakes
17 - Purple Up! Day - Wear Purple
17 - Report Cards Go Home
17 - Walking Wednesday
18 - Wear Your Favorite Military Branch Colors
18 - Band/Chorus Spring Concert
19 - Pajama Day

Quick Links

• FCPS School Year Calendars
• Fort Hunt ES Parent Handbook
• Student Rights & Responsibilities
• FCPS Schoology Support
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• Educate Fairfax
• FCPS Cares 

8832 Linton Lane Alexandria, VA 22308  | Main Office: 703-619-2600

 

Attendance: 703-619-2626 | Web | X (Twitter) | Facebook

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please click on the link below. 

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, haga clic en el enlace a continuación y elija su idioma.

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | Français | Русский

 From the Principal's Den

My Dearest Fort Hunt Family,

We had a memorable, fun, and productive week at Fort Hunt.  Our teachers continue to be masterful at keeping our students engaged and learning, especially as we approach Spring Break. Highlights of the week’s events include Miss Virginia visiting and presenting on substance abuse to our upper grades. This presentation was a collaboration with Ms. McLenithan, our school counselor.

Thank you to our PTA who sponsored Literacy Night at their monthly PTA meeting. Parents set up for the event and participated in many ways which included such actions as greeting families with information packets, popping popcorn and facilitating a read aloud in the library. Ms. Witt, our reading teacher, organized the literacy activities which she and teachers, representing the upper grades, led. Thank you to Maria Alva, Kara Cameron, Bill Hurd, Stephanie Seadeek, Karen Wall, and Ellen Wise for sharing their talents.

We concluded the week with our time-honored school event, Dance Around the World!   Many thanks to our PTA, school staff and FHES families for making this event a success. The school was filled with smiles, laughter, music, dance, beautiful cultural outfits, delicious food, and creative and informative booths and presentations. Thank you, families and staff for personifying how FHES is such a deeply caring community.

Here's a friendly reminder, Spring Break is March 25 -29, 2024. Additionally, April 1 -2 are student holidays and teacher workdays.

All the best,
Mattie S. Fallen, Ed.D.
Interim Principal

Dance Around the World Fun

Thank you to our fabulous PTA, their volunteers and all of the staff and families who set up tables to celebrate all of our diversity at Fort Hunt on Friday.  So many countries were represented with information on their cultures, food samples, costumes and music. DJ Juan played songs from all around the world while students learned new dances. 

Spring Break - No School

No school from March 25-29, 2024. Enjoy your spring break! Rest, read and relax. Schools and school offices will be closed. 

Student Holiday for Teacher Work Days - Monday, April 1 and Tuesday, April 2, 2024. Classes resume on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. 

There will not be a News You Choose newsletter on Monday, March 25th or Monday, April 1st. 

Last Week to Submit
the Family Engagement Survey

Your voice matters! This is the last week for parents/caregivers to complete the FCPS Family Engagement Survey. Please participate — your feedback is critical in helping to inform and improve practices to best support our students.

Taking this survey will also help strengthen the partnership between your family and our school. When that partnership is strong, students can experience a range of benefits including improved school readiness, higher student achievement, better social skills and behavior, and an increased likelihood of graduating high school.

The survey will take about 10-15 minutes to complete and will be available in 10 languages. Please visit the Family Engagement Survey webpage for more information. Paper copies are available upon request. Please contact Christina Schauss at [email protected].  The survey closes Friday, March 22.

Place Your Yearbook Order Today!

Mr. Green has been working hard on putting together a wonderful yearbook for Fort Hunt.

Order yours today! 

You can order online using the school yearbook ID code: 14445624. Yearbooks are $18 each. The deadline to order a yearbook is April 12th. 

FCPS T-Shirt/FHES T-Shirt Purple Up! T-Shirts Available for Purchase

FCPS and FHES are gearing up to honor and celebrate our military-connected youth in April, the Month of the Military Child and on Purple Up! Day! 

This is a time for our community to come together and wear purple as a visible gesture of support, gratitude, and appreciation for our military-connected youth and their families. Purple symbolizes the combined colors of all branches of the military. 

Fort Hunt ES PTA Purple Up! t-shirts are available for purchase now through Tuesday, April 9, 2024 here.  (Please Note: The FCPS T-shirt is no longer available for purchase.) 

Kids Heart Challenge
American Heart Association

Did you know Hands-Only CPR can double - even triple - a person's chance of surviving a cardiac arrest? Did you know most cardiac arrests happen at home? Our goal is to help all families learn Hands-Only CPR. It's quick and easy to learn and could save the life of someone you love. 

You'll learn this lifesaving skill when your student completes Finn's Mission. And when just three participants in your student's class complete Finn's Mission, the class will earn a free Recess Kit and every student will get a Kids Heart Challenge heart hero character. 

Register today at heart.org/schools. Become a lifesaver by completing Finn's Mission with your family! 

April Awareness Events

Autism Acceptance Month - April is Autism Acceptance Month. One in 44 children is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder in the United States, according to the CDC. Our schools and staff play a vital role in creating and ensuring inclusive environments that accommodate and affirm autistic students.

Month of the Military Child - Every year we take the opportunity to recognize military-connected youth for their service and contribution to our community. Fairfax County Public Schools is proud to have over 14,000 military-connected youth as a part of our student body. We appreciate the varied life experiences they bring to our school community, and recognize their strength and resilience. Learn more about Month of the Military Child and FCPS’ resources for military families. 

National Arab American Heritage Month - FCPS is proud to celebrate National Arab American Heritage Month in April. This special month provides an opportunity to recognize the remarkable history and valuable contributions of Arab Americans. 

Muslim American Heritage Month - Muslim American Heritage Month is a time for celebrating the history, contributions, culture, and an enhanced understanding of the diverse population of Muslim Americans. View the Fairfax County School Board resolution honoring Muslim American Heritage Month.

School Library Month - In FCPS libraries, students develop knowledge and skills, experience a sense of belonging, find inspiration and support, and have the ability to freely pursue their personal interests and academic growth. Watch this video to learn how FCPS librarians make a difference.

April is also Mathematics and Statistics Awareness Month and National Poetry Month.

Literacy Night Pictures  Safely View the Total Solar Eclipse on April 8

A total solar eclipse will occur on Monday, April 8, and will be viewable, depending on weather, in Fairfax County. The eclipse will begin in our area around 2:04 p.m. and end around 4:32 p.m., with the maximum eclipse occurring around 3:20 p.m.  

Because the timing overlaps with dismissal, it is crucial that students understand the importance of safe viewing practices. We encourage families to review these Solar Eclipse Resources, especially the eye safety information. We hope everyone takes the opportunity to learn more about this extraordinary natural phenomenon while prioritizing safe solar viewing.

Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services Summer Camps 2024

The Department of Neighborhood and Community Services offers a variety of youth and teen summer camps at public schools and community centers throughout Fairfax County. All programs offer reduced fees for eligible families:

Camp Fairfax
Therapeutic Recreation Camps
Sully Community Center Sports and More Camp
Value in Prevention (VIP) Camps
Teens in Action
4-H Camps

For more information, visit https://bit.ly/NCScamps

Route 1 Community Farm

This spring a new 2 acre community farm is opening near the intersection of Route 1 and Mt. Vernon Memorial Highway. The farm seeks to build community engagement, promote sustainable food production, and provide educational opportunities for communities along Route 1. Their goal is to empower these communities towards food sovereignty by providing access to growing space, resources and technical assistance free of charge.

Community growers will enjoy complimentary access to: Two-4 foot by 16 foot ready to grow raised planting beds; seedlings, seeds, seeds, supplies, and tools; hands-on farm, garden and nutrition education programs and ongoing technical assistance; barn with indoor & outdoor community gathering spaces.

For more information, click here.  

Mark Your Calendar!

March 2024

20 - Walking Wednesday
22 - End of 3rd Quarter

March 25-April 2 - Spring Break - Schools and School Offices Closed

29 - Good Friday (falls during Spring Break)
31 - Happy Easter (falls during Spring Break)

April 2024

1 - Teacher Work Day - Student Holiday
2 - Staff Development Day - Student Holiday
3 - Classes Resume
3 - Walking Wednesday
4 - National School Librarian Day 

Quick Links

• FCPS School Year Calendars
• Fort Hunt ES Parent Handbook
• Student Rights & Responsibilities
• FCPS Schoology Support
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• Educate Fairfax
• FCPS Cares 

8832 Linton Lane Alexandria, VA 22308  | Main Office: 703-619-2600

 

Attendance: 703-619-2626 | Web | X (Twitter) | Facebook

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please click on the link below. 

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, haga clic en el enlace a continuación y elija su idioma.

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | Français | Русский

 From the Principal's Den

My Dearest Fort Hunt Family,

I hope this newsletter finds you in the best of health and in good spirits. Thank you for your warm and heart-felt welcome. I feel right at home in the “Fox Den!” I am happy to be a part of such a loving, caring, and hardworking school community. In such a short time here, I have already surmised that this is a school family that is student-centered. I had an awesome time visiting classrooms, reading with students, listening to some of our strings’ students, and visiting with students during lunch. As we spring forward into this new season of working and learning together, let us do so as only the Fort Hunt Family does—in a kind, caring, positive, and honest way! We hope to see you at our PTA Dance Around the World event this Friday, March 15th. May your week be filled with love and light!

~There is always light if only we’re brave enough to see it. If only we’re brave enough to be it. ~ Amanda Gorman

All the best,
Mattie S. Fallen, Ed.D.

Raise Craze Success!

Thank you to those who participated in our Raise Craze fundraiser - we raised over $9,000 for our school, and students participated in over 310 acts of kindness. WOW! We are so grateful to our Fort Hunt Fox community for your participation and support.

Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!

This year, spring break is March 25-29. We will be eager to welcome your children back to school on Wednesday, April 3, after two teacher work days. Student attendance is very important. Every day, our teachers will be teaching, and students will be learning. Studies have shown that just two absences per month can cause students to fall behind. Let’s finish this school year strong. Visit FCPS’ website for attendance resources. 

Place Your Yearbook Order Today!

Mr. Green has been working hard on putting together a wonderful yearbook for Fort Hunt.
Order yours today! 

An order form went home in Wednesday Folders or you can order online using the school yearbook ID code: 14445624. Yearbooks are $18 each. The deadline to order a yearbook is April 12th. 

Don't Forget to Submit the
Family Engagement Survey

Your voice matters! Parents/caregivers received the FCPS’ Family Engagement Survey Sunday, March 3, from independent research firm K12 Insight. Please participate — your feedback is critical in helping to inform and improve practices to best support our students.

Taking this survey will also help strengthen the partnership between your family and our school. When that partnership is strong, students can experience a range of benefits including improved school readiness, higher student achievement, better social skills and behavior, and an increased likelihood of graduating high school.

The survey will take about 10-15 minutes to complete and will be available in 10 languages. Please visit the Family Engagement Survey webpage for more information. Paper copies are available upon request. Please contact Christina Schauss at [email protected].

FCPS T-Shirt/FHES T-Shirt Purple Up! T-Shirts Available for Purchase

FCPS and FHES are gearing up to honor and celebrate our military-connected youth in April, the Month of the Military Child and on Purple Up! Day! 

This is a time for our community to come together and wear purple as a visible gesture of support, gratitude, and appreciation for our military-connected youth and their families. Purple symbolizes the combined colors of all branches of the military. 

Fort Hunt ES PTA Purple Up! t-shirts are available for purchase now through Tuesday, April 9, 2024 here.  (Please Note: The FCPS T-shirt is no longer available for purchase.) 

4th Grade Odyssey of the Mind Team

Our Fourth Grade Odyssey of the Mind Team participated in the regional tournament over the weekend and had a blast after all of their hard work! Thank you to all of the families that helped support the team for the past few months while they prepared their show. Congratulations Sea Dragons!

Team members include: Ava Weatherley, Darcy Buchman, Lily Chambers, Violet Diamonds, Marie Peck, Dani Galligan and Molly Pederson. 

March Awareness Events

This year, the first full day of Ramadan is today, Monday, March 11. In Islam, Ramadan is the most sacred month of the year. During this month Muslims abstain from food and drink from dawn to sunset each day while striving to increase their spirituality, through prayers, charity and good deeds. Read more about Ramadan in National Geographic Kids.

Throughout the year, as we celebrate and recognize various cultural holidays and observances, families are encouraged to contact Mr. Caines regarding accommodations, including but not limited to those around lunch, prayer/meditation and silent reflection spaces and times, and instruction.

🥁 Summer Camps and Learning Programs

Have you made summer plans for your child yet? Are you looking for a summer camp for your child with special needs?

The Family Resource Center has compiled information on summer camps including local options, camps for students with special needs (sorted by need), and camps for students experiencing grief or who have parents in the military.

Spring Break - No School

No school from March 25-29, 2024. Enjoy your spring break! Rest, read and relax. Schools and school offices will be closed. 

Student Holiday for Teacher Work Days - Monday, April 1 and Tuesday, April 2, 2024. Classes resume on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. 

 Safely View the Total Solar Eclipse on April 8

A total solar eclipse will occur on Monday, April 8, and will be viewable, depending on weather, in Fairfax County. The eclipse will begin in our area around 2:04 p.m. and end around 4:32 p.m., with the maximum eclipse occurring around 3:20 p.m.  

Because the timing overlaps with dismissal, it is crucial that students understand the importance of safe viewing practices. We encourage families to review these Solar Eclipse Resources, especially the eye safety information. We hope everyone takes the opportunity to learn more about this extraordinary natural phenomenon while prioritizing safe solar viewing.

Mark Your Calendar!

March 2024

11 - First Day of Ramadan
13 - Walking Wednesday
13 - PTA March Birthday Books & Cupcakes
13 - PTA Meeting - Literacy Night
14 - Happy Pi Day!
15 - Dance Around the World 6p-8p

20 - Walking Wednesday
22 - End of 3rd Quarter

March 25-April 2 - Spring Break - Schools and School Offices Closed

29 - Good Friday (falls during Spring Break)
31 - Happy Easter (falls during Spring Break)

April 2024

1 - Teacher Work Day - Student Holiday
2 - Teacher Work Day - Student Holiday
3 - Classes Resume

Quick Links

• FCPS School Year Calendars
• Fort Hunt ES Parent Handbook
• Student Rights & Responsibilities
• FCPS Schoology Support
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• Educate Fairfax
• FCPS Cares 

8832 Linton Lane Alexandria, VA 22308  | Main Office: 703-619-2600

 

Attendance: 703-619-2626 | Web | X (Twitter) | Facebook

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please click on the link below. 

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, haga clic en el enlace a continuación y elija su idioma.

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | Français | Русский

 From the Principal's Den

The Raise Craze fundraiser wraps up this week – thank you to our PTA, families, and students for supporting and sprinkling acts of kindness throughout our community!  We also want to thank our PTA for the staff snack break last week; our staff enjoyed many delicious nibbles.  Our PTA also created a “Fox Feature” certificate, button, and delicious cookie to highlight the positive and dedicated work of staff members who will be recognized weekly throughout the spring.  Our administration, faculty, and staff greatly appreciate all the support of our PTA and families.

This is School Social Worker Week. We would like to recognize the positive contributions of our school social worker and express our gratitude to Ms. Baker for all that she does for FHES.  Learn more about what school social workers do by clicking here.

March is also Women’s History Month.  Let us reflect on the positive impact of women who have contributed to history in our society and in our school community.  “One child, one teacher, one pen, and one book can change the world.”  - Malala Yousafzai

Warmest regards,
Lawrence Caines
Principal
[email protected]

Alcohol and Drug Prevention

FCPS provides several resources for substance abuse prevention.  Parents/caregivers are encouraged to access information and resources online here.  It is important to understand abuse trends and prevention strategies.  Our counseling, clinical staff, and administration are also here to assist families in need.

March 5 Presidential Primary
Student Holiday

The Fairfax Board of Elections has requested that schools be closed on Tuesday, March 5, to accommodate the safe and efficient administration of the 2024 presidential primary election.

Therefore, March 5 will be a school holiday for students and a virtual School Planning Day. As outlined in Regulation 4421, School Planning Days are directed by school-based Administrators in order to devote time to school improvement efforts, including collaboration around data, common assessments, responsive instruction, etc. 

Central offices and school offices will remain open. SACC will remain open, as on other professional work days.

Last Days of Raise Craze!

Our annual Fort Hunt PTA Raise Craze Fundraiser through acts of kindness ends on March 7th. 

Our goal is $15,000 and will go towards our Care & Share Program, Teacher & Staff Appreciation and School Beautification.

Questions? Contact Jen Keller - [email protected] 

Place Your Yearbook Order Today!

Mr. Green has been working hard on putting together a wonderful yearbook for Fort Hunt.
Order yours today! 

An order form went home in Wednesday Folders or you can order online using the school yearbook ID code: 14445624. Yearbooks are $18 each. The deadline to order a yearbook is April 12th. 

Family Engagement Survey Opened March 3

Parents/caregivers received the FCPS’ Family Engagement Survey Sunday, March 3, from independent research firm K12 Insight. Please participate — your feedback is critical in helping to inform and improve practices to best support our students.

Taking this survey will also help strengthen the partnership between your family and our school. When that partnership is strong, students can experience a range of benefits including improved school readiness, higher student achievement, better social skills and behavior, and an increased likelihood of graduating high school.

The survey will take about 10-15 minutes to complete and will be available in 10 languages. Please visit the Family Engagement Survey webpage for more information. Your voice matters!

🖍️ It’s Kindergarten Registration Time!

Attending kindergarten provides children with an opportunity to learn and practice the essential social, emotional, problem-solving, and self-regulation skills they will use throughout their lives. Fort Hunt typically conducts kindergarten registration events, including orientation, in the spring during April. Eligible children can also be registered throughout the summer, but registering your child early helps us plan, so that we have the teachers and resources needed on the first day of school. 

Prepare for registration by gathering documents and completing forms. We are happy to support families with registration and the transition to kindergarten. For more information in other languages, visit FCPS’ Kindergarten Registration webpage.

If you want to register your rising kindergartener or know someone who wants to register their rising kindergartener, please have them come to the main office anytime between 9:30a-2:30p. Questions? Contact Rosa Dobarco at [email protected]

Clothing Donations Still Needed

We are still in need of the following gently used items:

• Boys’ long pants sizes 12-16

Please do not send adult-sized clothing. Thank you, we appreciate your contributions!

FCPS T-Shirt/FHES T-Shirt Purple Up! T-Shirts Available for Purchase

FCPS and FHES are gearing up to honor and celebrate our military-connected youth in April, the Month of the Military Child and on Purple Up! Day! 

This is a time for our community to come together and wear purple as a visible gesture of support, gratitude, and appreciation for our military-connected youth and their families. Purple symbolizes the combined colors of all branches of the military. 

Fort Hunt ES PTA Purple Up! t-shirts are available for purchase now through Tuesday, April 9, 2024 here.

FCPS Purple Up! t-shirts are available for purchase now through Friday, March 8, 2024 here.

March Awareness Events

March 3-9 is National School Social Worker Week. Social workers in FCPS help to prevent social, emotional, and behavioral factors from affecting a student's ability to perform at their best. Their primary goal is to remove barriers that prevent a student from fulfilling their academic potential. Social workers are assigned to every school and center in the school system. Most social workers serve one to two sites. Learn more about the role of social workers in FCPS.

March 4-8 - National School Breakfast Week (NSBW) celebrates the importance of a nutritious school breakfast in fueling students for success.

This year, the first full day of Ramadan is Monday, March 11. In Islam, Ramadan is the most sacred month of the year. During this month Muslims abstain from food and drink from dawn to sunset each day while striving to increase their spirituality, through prayers, charity and good deeds. Read more about Ramadan in National Geographic Kids.

Throughout the year, as we celebrate and recognize various cultural holidays and observances, families are encouraged to contact Mr. Caines regarding accommodations, including but not limited to those around lunch, prayer/meditation and silent reflection spaces and times, and instruction.

Daylight Savings Time - Spring Forward

Don't forget to move all your clocks forward one hour on Sunday, March 10th! 

Read Across America Day

Mr. Hurd's 4th grade class spent part of Read Across America Day reading with Mrs. Cancilla's 1st Grade class.

Family Resource Center - March 2024 Webinars

Friday, March 15 (10-11:30 AM) Behavior Solution Series: Taming Tantrums and More: Join staff from the FCPS Behavior Intervention Services Department as they provide tools for families that help when your child’s behavior feels like a rollercoaster. Learn how to turn meltdowns into moments that make you go 'ta-da!'

Registration: https://bit.ly/3zjZrGH
Family Resource Center: 703-204-3941 and [email protected]

Mark Your Calendar!

March 2024

4 - Raise Craze Fundraiser Continues Through March 7th
4-8 - School Social Worker Week
5 - Presidential Primary Election - Student Holiday
5 - 6th Grade Election Day Bake Sale
6 - Walking Wednesday
7 - Final Day of Raise Craze Fundraiser

10 - Daylight Savings Time - Spring Forward
11 - First Day of Ramadan
13 - Walking Wednesday
13 - PTA March Birthday Books & Cupcakes
13 - PTA Meeting - Literacy Night
14 - Happy Pi Day!
15 - Dance Around the World 6p-8p

Quick Links

• FCPS School Year Calendars
• Fort Hunt ES Parent Handbook
• Student Rights & Responsibilities
• FCPS Schoology Support
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• Educate Fairfax
• FCPS Cares 

8832 Linton Lane Alexandria, VA 22308  | Main Office: 703-619-2600

 

Attendance: 703-619-2626 | Web | X (Twitter) | Facebook

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please click on the link below. 

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, haga clic en el enlace a continuación y elija su idioma.

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | Français | Русский

 Sr. Spelling Bee Participants

From the Principal's Den

Last week, on Friday, I attended the Spelling Bee sponsored by our PTA.  Congratulations to all participants and thanks to the organizers, volunteers, and staff who supported – we appreciate you “bee-ing” a part of this fun and enriching event.

I was asked last week by a student why there was a police officer on Linton Lane during arrival.  When I looked into this, I learned from the officer that the Fairfax County Police Traffic Division conducts an unannounced annual assessment of the crosswalks at every FCPS school.  The officer on Linton Lane during arrival last week was collecting data on the number of walkers using the crosswalk and the corresponding time intervals.  The officer also took note of some double parking, as well as some vehicles parked too close to fire hydrants, entrances, and driveways.  Please be reminded to always follow county traffic and parking laws to keep our neighborhood safe, especially during arrival and dismissal when we have such an influx of people and vehicles.

Finally, as I write this, the temperatures are warming, and the sun is shining – spring is coming soon!  As the weather gets nicer, I want to encourage everyone to consider how movement can have a positive impact on learning.  Consider the following research:

• Physical activity increases blood flow and the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to hardworking brain cells (Sousa, 2012). 
• Exercisers outperform ‘couch potatoes’ in tests measuring long-term memory, attention, problem-solving and fluid intelligence tasks (Medina, 2008). 
• When students sit for 20 mins or longer, blood pools in two parts of the body, the feet and seat (Sousa, 2011).
• Probably the only known cognitive activity that uses 100% of the brain is physical performance (Jensen, 2008). 

Warmest regards,
Lawrence Caines
Principal
[email protected]

Raise Craze is Happening!

Our annual Fort Hunt PTA Raise Craze Fundraiser through acts of kindness has started! It ends on March 7th. 

If you haven't yet, please Register Here!

Our goal is $15,000 and will go towards our Care & Share Program, Teacher & Staff Appreciation and School Beautification.

Questions? Contact Jen Keller - [email protected] 

American Heart Association
"Kids Heart Challenge"

FHES families received a flyer about the American Heart Association’s “Kids Heart Challenge” in last week’s Wednesday folder. This is an educational resource that can help not only your student(s), but your whole family, to learn the warning signs of a stroke, as well as hands only CPR and other health related topics for a healthy heart. The FUNDRAISING PART IS OPTIONAL! Dr. Reid along with the American Heart Association has a goal that by the 2025-2026 school year all FCPS elementary schools participate in this added resource. We wanted to start off this school year with this as February is heart month. Enjoy the free health information resources.

Place Your Yearbook Order Today!

Mr. Green has been working hard on putting together a wonderful yearbook for Fort Hunt. Order yours today! 

An order form went home last Wednesday or you can order online using the school yearbook ID code: 14445624. Yearbooks are $18 each. The deadline to order a yearbook is April 12th. 

Register for Fleet Foxes Today!

Registration is open until Friday, March 22nd for our Spring Fleet Foxes program. Sign up here to join the team and participate in the track meet. 

We need 15 parent volunteers to help run the program. Please consider volunteering through the link above. 

Practice Dates/Time/Location:
3:45-4:45p on the Fort Hunt Athletic Fields
Grades K-2: Tuesdays April 9 and 16
Grades 3-6: Tuesdays April 9, 16 and 23

Meet Dates/Time/Location:
Grades K-2: Monday, April 22
Grades 3-6: Tuesday, April 30

Family Engagement Survey to Open March 3

FCPS is partnering with independent research firm K12 Insight to administer a Family Engagement Survey, which will be open from Sunday, March 3, to Friday, March 22. Your feedback is critical in helping FCPS to better recognize, understand, respect, and address family strengths and needs throughout the district. Survey topics include:

• Welcoming environment
• Communication
• Student success
• Advocacy
• Family and school partnerships
• Community partnerships

The survey will be available in English, Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Pashto, Spanish, Urdu, and Vietnamese. 

Parents/caregivers will receive the survey link via email from K12 Insight. A public link will also be posted on FCPS’ website. Paper surveys will be available in our front office. Please stay tuned for more information.

March Awareness Events

National Women's History Month - Every year, March is designated Women’s History Month by presidential proclamation. The month is set aside to honor women’s contributions in American history. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. Read more about Women’s History Month in National Geographic Kids. 

Equity in Education Month - FCPS — in conjunction with the Virginia School Boards Association — observes March as Equity in Education Month, a division-wide opportunity to deepen our commitment to creating a climate and curriculum where all students receive the resources they need to reach their fullest potential.

Disability Awareness Month - In March people throughout the United States will celebrate Disability Awareness Month. This is an opportunity to honor these diverse and important stories. 

Celebrating Arts in Our Schools - The Council for Art Education (CFAE) administers Youth Art Month. Youth Art Month encourages support for quality school art programs, and promotes art material safety.

March has also been designated by the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) for the observance of Music In Our Schools Month® (MIOSM®), the time of year when music education becomes the focus of schools across the nation.

Theatre In Our Schools (TIOS) is a celebration of theatre in our schools and schools in our theatres. Sponsored by the American Alliance for Theatre & Education (AATE) and the Educational Theatre Association (EdTA), the goals of TIOS are to raise public awareness of the impact of theatre education and draw attention to the need for more access to quality programs in and out of school for all students.

National Nutrition Month® is an annual campaign created by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. During the month of March, everyone is invited to learn about making informed food choices and developing healthful eating and physical activity habits.

March 3-9 is National School Social Worker Week. Social workers in FCPS help to prevent social, emotional, and behavioral factors from affecting a student's ability to perform at their best. Their primary goal is to remove barriers that prevent a student from fulfilling their academic potential. Social workers are assigned to every school and center in the school system. Most social workers serve one to two sites. Learn more about the role of social workers in FCPS.

March 4-8 - National School Breakfast Week (NSBW) celebrates the importance of a nutritious school breakfast in fueling students for success.

Save the Date! Dance Around the World

Friday, March 15th is our annual Dance Around the World event where families come together to celebrate all of Fort Hunt's different cultures from around the world.  

If you sign up to do a table display or volunteer at the event, you will be entered to win a raffle basket valued at $50. Flyers were sent home in last week's Wednesday Folders or see the flyer above for more information and to use the QR code to sign up. 

FHES Spelling Bee

This past Friday, March 23rd, FHES held its annual Spelling Bee. Both Jr. and Sr. Spelling Bee's turned out to be Bee-riffic!

The event was enjoyed by our student participants, families and volunteers. Big thanks to Johanna and Brian Taddiken for an amazing job at running the program so effortlessly and to all our teachers who volunteered as judges for the event. Congratulations to all of our students on a job well done!!!

Junior Bee:
Champion - Jacob Taddiken
1st Runner Up - Jude Fortner
2nd Runner Up - Emery Lucy

Senior Bee:
Champion - Marie Minez
1st Runner Up - Claire Hammell
2nd Runner Up - Leila Consedine

Marie Minez will represent FHES at the Fairfax County Regional Spelling Bee on March 17 at Lake Braddock Secondary. Good luck Marie! 

March 5 Presidential Primary
Student Holiday

The Fairfax Board of Elections has requested that schools be closed on Tuesday, March 5, to accommodate the safe and efficient administration of the 2024 presidential primary election.

Therefore, March 5 will be a school holiday for students and a virtual School Planning Day. As outlined in Regulation 4421, School Planning Days are directed by school-based Administrators in order to devote time to school improvement efforts, including collaboration around data, common assessments, responsive instruction, etc. 

Central offices and school offices will remain open. SACC will remain open, as on other professional work days.

Mark Your Calendar!

February 2024

26 - Raise Craze Fundraiser All Week
27 - Yearbook Club Pictures Taken Today
28 - Walking Wednesday

March 2024

1 - Read Across America Day (Observed) "Snuggle Up With a Book"

4 - Raise Craze Fundraiser Continues Through March 7th
4-8 - School Social Worker Week
5 - Presidential Primary Election - Student Holiday
5 - 6th Grade Election Day Bake Sale

Quick Links

• FCPS School Year Calendars
• Fort Hunt ES Parent Handbook
• Student Rights & Responsibilities
• FCPS Schoology Support
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• Educate Fairfax
• FCPS Cares 

8832 Linton Lane Alexandria, VA 22308  | Main Office: 703-619-2600

 

Attendance: 703-619-2626 | Web | X (Twitter) | Facebook

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please click on the link below. 

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, haga clic en el enlace a continuación y elija su idioma.

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | Français | Русский

Click on the image above to watch a video on Technology Use.

From the Principal's Den

Over the past few weeks, our School Based Technology Specialist, Mrs. von Kolnitz, has visited classrooms in grades 2-4 and reviewed use of computers and other digital devices. Grades 5 and 6 will be scheduled for March. The presentation included students reviewing the short video,  Student Rights and Responsibilities: Technology Use and a discussion on responsible, respectful, and safe use of the computer. Students were encouraged to be responsible by storing their device in a safe spot, not eating or drinking while using the device and keeping their device charged. They discussed respectful use as staying on task and doing only what the teacher directs and treating others with kindness. Finally, safe use is described as keeping passwords and personal information private.

Students were also reminded to keep their cellular phones in their backpacks during the day. They were also reminded that their smart watches are like phones. The smart watch phone functions, calling and texting, should only be used before and after school or with the permission of the teacher, or for arranged use for medical reasons.

Thank you for your continued support of monitoring students’ computer use at home and reinforcing the responsible, respectful, and safe use of digital devices.

All the best,
Lawrence Caines
Principal
[email protected]

Family Assistance

FHES is committed to ensuring that our students have the resources they need throughout the school year to reach their full potential in school and within the community.  Through the partnership of our PTA Care & Share, Equity Leads, and Family Liaison, an optional and confidential questionnaire has been developed to learn more about the types of assistance families in our community may need with food, school supplies, or clothing.  Here is the link to the questionnaire.  If you have any questions about this form, please contact our Family Liaison, Christina Schauss, at [email protected] or
(703) 619-2674.  

Kindergarten Registration:
It’s as Easy as 1-2-3…

There’s an easy five-step process for parents wanting to register their child for kindergarten:

1. Determine eligibility. 
2. Identify your local school. 
3. Gather documents. 
4. Fill out forms.

After your registration is complete, you will be notified of when our orientation date, and/or Bridge to Kindergarten event will happen. Read more about the registration process.

💻 Try Online Registration

Parents may register their children online for kindergarten through 12th grade. Learn how to begin the online registration process. 

When registering, parents will create (or log in to an existing) SIS ParentVUE account. Please note that passwords should be more than 12 characters long. If you have an existing account and your password is shorter, please update it when you log in.

Questions? Please contact our Registrar, Rosa Dobarco at [email protected] 

Place Your Yearbook Order Today!

Mr. Green has been working hard on putting together a wonderful yearbook for Fort Hunt. Order yours today! 

An order form went home last Wednesday or you can order online using the school yearbook ID code: 14445624. Yearbooks are $18 each. The deadline to order a yearbook is April 12th. 

Our Schools, Our Future:
Community Conversations

Join Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid for Our Schools, Our Future – A Community Conversation. Your voice matters! Share your thoughts about FCPS and bring your questions to a conversation at one of these local venues:

• Tuesday, April 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at South County Middle School
• Wednesday, May 8, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Hybla Valley Elementary School.

Pre-registration for a Community Conversation is not required but will help FCPS plan. Childcare and interpretation services will be provided for all events based on staff availability. Events are open to all. Learn about other opportunities to connect with Dr. Reid.

Real Food for Kids Culinary Challenge

The Real Food for Kids Culinary Challenge will be held on Saturday, March 2, at 10:45 a.m., at Hayfield Secondary School. The event features a public tasting of student dishes and demonstrations from two local celebrated chefs. 

The student challenge at the heart of this event is to create healthy, delicious, and culturally diverse school menu items that meet USDA guidelines. Entries will be judged by a panel including celebrity chefs, school food professionals, and local food producers. The public is invited to vote for their favorite dish. 

Chefs Najmieh Batmanglij and Chris Morgan of Joon will offer a demonstration at 11:15 a.m. Public tasting of student dishes will get underway at noon. 

Student-created dishes from this annual event have been featured on school menus throughout the Greater Washington Region. It is free to attend, but registration is required.

February Awareness Events

Feb. 27-Mar. 3 Public Schools Week is an annual celebration that brings together school leaders, educators, parents & community leaders to recognize the importance of our nation’s public schools.

Save the Date! Dance Around the World

Friday, March 15th is our annual Dance Around the World event where families come together to celebrate all of Fort Hunt's different cultures from around the world.  

If you sign up to do a table display or volunteer at the event, you will be entered to win a raffle basket valued at $50. Flyers were sent home in last week's Wednesday Folders or see the flyer above for more information and to use the QR code to sign up. 

Mount Vernon's Black History Month Celebration

Opportunity Neighborhood Mount Vernon's Black History Month Celebration will be on Saturday, February 24th from 10 am to 1 pm at the Hybla Valley Community Center located at 7950 Audubon Avenue, Alexandria.

Mark Your Calendar!

February 2024

20 - Raise Craze Fundraiser All Week
21 - Walking Wednesday
22 - School Bus Driver Appreciation Day
23 - Jr. Spelling Bee, 5p
23 - Sr. Spelling Bee, 7p

26 - Raise Craze Fundraiser All Week
27 - Yearbook Club Pictures Taken Today
28 - Walking Wednesday

Quick Links

• FCPS School Year Calendars
• Fort Hunt ES Parent Handbook
• Student Rights & Responsibilities
• FCPS Schoology Support
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• Educate Fairfax
• FCPS Cares 

8832 Linton Lane Alexandria, VA 22308  | Main Office: 703-619-2600

 

Attendance: 703-619-2626 | Web | X (Twitter) | Facebook

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please click on the link below. 

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, haga clic en el enlace a continuación y elija su idioma.

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | Français | Русский

From the Principal's Den

Last week included the 100th day of school with many clever activities.  From dressing up as a “100 year-old” to a hundreds chart made of fruit loops - it was a fun time to celebrate this milestone in our school year!  

You may notice I'm missing from Kiss and Ride in the morning or the Walkers' Door in the afternoon this week. I am out of town for a few days attending a professional conference. I look forward to collaborating with principal colleagues and sharing the learning with FHES staff when I return. 

As we reflect on cultivating kindness in our children, our community, and ourselves, let's remember Dr. Maya Angelou's words: "Be a rainbow in someone's cloud."

All the best,
Lawrence Caines
Principal
[email protected]

Black History Month Images From Around FHES Rising 1st Grade Immersion Lottery
Registration Deadline

REMINDER: the Immersion Lottery Registration deadline for rising first graders is Thursday, February 15th at 4pm. If your student is not already registered at an FCPS school, you must register them at their base school before you can submit for the lottery.

The deadline for rising kindergartners is March 4th. 

Questions? Email Rosa Dobarco at [email protected]

Place Your Yearbook Order Today!

Mr. Green has been working hard on putting together a wonderful yearbook for Fort Hunt. Order yours today! 

An order form went home last Wednesday or you can order online using the school yearbook ID code: 14445624. Yearbooks are $18 each. The deadline to order a yearbook is April 12th. 

Clothing Donations Still Needed

We are still in need of the following gently used items:

• Boys long pants sizes 7-12
• Girls long pants (non-leggings) sizes 4 and 10/12. 

Please do not send adult-sized clothing. Thank you, we appreciate your contributions!

Cafeteria Volunteers Welcomed

We're looking for parent/grandparent/guardian volunteers to come help in the cafeteria during the students lunch break. Volunteers will support our two cafeteria hostesses Celina and Acxa. For more information and to sign up, please click here.

Children's Dental Health

Included on behalf of FCPS Food and Nutrition Services

The two major oral health diseases are tooth decay (dental caries) and gum (periodontal) disease. Both diseases are influenced by nutrition and diet.
Nutrition plays an important role in the development of teeth and oral tissue. Dental caries result from the interaction between the tooth, oral bacteria, and
dietary carbohydrates (sugar and starch).

Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on our teeth and turns the sugars and starches in our food into acids. These acids act on the tooth enamel and
cause tooth decay. If high-acid producing or sugar foods (raisins, cookies, cakes, potato chips) are consumed, they should be eaten with meals, not as
snacks. Cheeses, popcorn, raw fruits and vegetables are low-acid producing food and make healthy snacks.

To prevent dental disease, remember to:
1. Brush teeth after every meal with fluoridated toothpaste.
2. Floss teeth daily.
3. Visit the dentist and dental hygienist regularly.
4. Eat a nutritionally balanced diet.

Avoid foods that stay in the mouth a long time and stick to teeth (raisins, hard candies, and caramels).

Celebrating 100 Days of School! Sign Up for FCPS Summer Camps

Registration is now open for several summer camps and learning opportunities offered by Fairfax County Public Schools for all students.

Career and Technical Education (CTE) camps and Institute for the Arts camps will be held in July at Lake Braddock Secondary School from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bus transportation will be available from select FCPS middle and high schools. 

Tech Adventure Camp is available for current grade K-5 students to explore STEAM, culinary, health, trades, and business and marketing areas. E-IFTA is a weekly arts camp for elementary students who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Visit the E-IFTA webpage to register.

February Awareness Events

February 14 - Ash Wednesday is a holy day of prayer and fasting in many Western Christian denominations. It marks the beginning of Lent, a time of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving leading up to Easter. Many Christians attend special Ash Wednesday church services, at which churchgoers receive ash on their foreheads. Ash Wednesday derives its name from this practice. Read more about Ash Wednesday in Britannica.com.

February 19 - President's Day officially recognized in the United States, is celebrated on the third Monday in February each year. It is a time to honor and remember the birthdays and achievements of the country's most distinguished leaders, and to reflect on the president's role in shaping the nation's history and development.

President's Day Holiday -
No School

All schools and offices will be closed on Monday, February 19, for the Presidents Day holiday. Learn more about Presidents Day in Britannica.com. Classes will resume on Tuesday, February 20. See the complete school year calendar.

Mount Vernon's Black History Month Celebration

Opportunity Neighborhood Mount Vernon's Black History Month Celebration will be on Saturday, February 24th from 10 am to 1 pm at the Hybla Valley Community Center located at 7950 Audubon Avenue, Alexandria.

Mark Your Calendar!

February 2024

14 - Happy Valentine's Day!  Wear Red, Pink or Hearts Day
14 - PTA Birthday Books & Cupcakes
14 - Raise Craze Fundraiser Begins Today
14 - Walking Wednesday
14 - Ash Wednesday
15 - PTA Meeting, 6:30p

19 - President's Day Holiday - NO SCHOOL
21 - Walking Wednesday
22 - School Bus Driver Appreciation Day
23 - Jr. Spelling Bee, 5p
23 - Sr. Spelling Bee, 7p

Quick Links

• FCPS School Year Calendars
• Fort Hunt ES Parent Handbook
• Student Rights & Responsibilities
• FCPS Schoology Support
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• Educate Fairfax
• FCPS Cares 

8832 Linton Lane Alexandria, VA 22308  | Main Office: 703-619-2600

 

Attendance: 703-619-2626 | Web | X (Twitter) | Facebook

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please click on the appropriate link below. 

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, haga clic en el enlace correspondiente a continuación.

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | Français | Русский

From the Principal's Den

Last week concluded with our gym and cafeteria filled with hundreds of our FHES ‘Fox Family’ who came out for Bingo Night. It was a really fun evening with lots of pizza and prizes.  Best of all, it was great to come together and enjoy the food and games as a community.  Learning happens best in community and so does having fun!  Thank you to all staff and parent volunteers who helped to organize and facilitate this fundraiser for our sixth-grade class.

This week is National School Counseling week.  We would like to highlight Ms. McLenithan, school counselor, and Ms. Baker, school social worker, for all their contributions to the FHES community.  Learn more about school counseling in FCPS here.

This Wednesday is Crossing Guard Appreciation Day.  If you use the crosswalk in front of FHES, be sure to say thank you to Mrs. Whitehead for all she does to keep our families safe.

We can also extend our appreciation to Mrs. Whitehead through the safe practices we observe each day at arrival and dismissal.  Please be mindful of using the designated crosswalks when crossing the street.  We have many vehicles that use the ‘Kiss and Ride’ line at FHES.  Being vigilant and aware of pedestrian safety when driving or parking keeps our crosswalks accessible and safer.  It takes a village – thank you for the collective efforts and contributions to ensure we have a safer community.

February is also a celebration of Black History Month.  I would like to encourage everyone to make this month a time to both reflect and share personal stories on the contributions of black educators, leaders, mentors, family or community members who have made a positive impact in your life.  If you would like to share a story or recognition for Black History Month with us, please do so here. 

History comes alive through sharing personal stories within community.  In the words of the poet Lucille Clifton, “won’t you celebrate with me?”

All the best,
Lawrence Caines
Principal
[email protected]

Here Comes the Bus

Want to know if your child’s bus is on schedule or where the bus is? Here Comes the Bus® is an easy-to-use website and app that enables parents to see the location of their child’s school bus —  almost in real-time — on a smartphone, tablet, or personal computer. 

Parents can track multiple buses if their children don’t all ride the same bus; know exactly when children arrive at school or the bus stop; and receive customized text and/or email notifications about bus locations, schedule changes, or delays.

To get started, download the app from the Apple iOS or Android app store. Check out the Here Comes the Bus and Frequently Asked Questions webpages for more information.

Already using the Here Comes the Bus app? Send your feedback to [email protected].  

Note: eNotify text messaging will continue to be used for reporting bus delays and bus incidents.

Clothing Donations Needed

Our Family Liaison maintains a small inventory of clothing in all sizes for students who may need a replacement item during the school day.  We are currently in need of the following gently used items:

• Boys long pants sizes 7-12
• Girls long pants (non-leggings) sizes 4 and 10/12. 

Please do not send adult-sized clothing.  Contact Christina Schauss ([email protected]) with any questions. 

Thank you, we appreciate your contributions!

Cafeteria Volunteers Welcomed

Looking for a way to volunteer at the school, but only have 30 minutes during your lunchbreak to make it work? Then do we have the opportunity for you. 

We're looking for parent/grandparent/guardian volunteers to come help in the cafeteria during the students lunch break. Volunteers will support our two cafeteria hostesses Celina and Acxa.

For more information and to sign up, please click here.

February Awareness Events

Black History Month - Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing their central role in U.S. history. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. Learn more about Black History month. 

National School Counseling Week is February 5-9, and highlights the tremendous impact school counselors have in helping students achieve academic success and planning for a career. School counselors work with students in a variety of different capacities, whether it is through classroom lessons, group sessions, or individual counseling. Learn more about the role of school counselors in FCPS.

The Lunar New Year is a holiday that marks the first new moon of the lunisolar calendar, which is the calendar traditionally used in many east Asian countries including China, Vietnam, Singapore, and South Korea. In these and other Asian countries, it is one of the most important holidays of the year. The Lunar New Year is all about ushering in luck and prosperity with family.Read more about Lunar New Year and its animal symbols in National Geographic Kids. 

Ash Wednesday is a holy day of prayer and fasting in many Western Christian denominations. It marks the beginning of Lent, a time of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving leading up to Easter. Many Christians attend special Ash Wednesday church services, at which churchgoers receive ash on their foreheads. Ash Wednesday derives its name from this practice. Read more about Ash Wednesday in Britannica.com.

Mark Your Calendar!

February 2024

5 - National School Counseling Week
7 - Crossing Guard Appreciation Day
7 - Walking Wednesday
7 - Report Cards Sent Home
8 - 100th Day of School
10 - Lunar New Year

14 - Happy Valentine's Day!  Wear Red, Pink or Hearts Day.
14 - PTA Birthday Books & Cupcakes
14 - Walking Wednesday
14 - Ash Wednesday
15 - PTA Meeting, 6:30p

Quick Links

• FCPS School Year Calendars
• Fort Hunt ES Parent Handbook
• Student Rights & Responsibilities
• FCPS Schoology Support
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• Educate Fairfax
• FCPS Cares 

8832 Linton Lane Alexandria, VA 22308  | Main Office: 703-619-2600

 

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Six graders enjoy lunch with the Principal
Alumnos de sexto grado disfrutan del almuerzo con el director

From the Principal's Den

We hope all families enjoyed the extra time at the end of last week. Our staff has been working hard to complete grades, analyze assessments, and plan instruction for the quarter ahead.

This year, one of our School Improvement and Innovation Plan (SIIP) goals is focused on students making their growth targets or end of year benchmarks in reading.  In analyzing our midyear data, we have noted that 81% of students in grades 1-6 made growth.  We are also proud to share that we have seen a 21% increase from the beginning of the school year for students who are on or above grade level in reading.  Additionally, there has been a 16% decrease from the beginning of the year in the number of students who are one grade level below in reading.  

Literacy is the foundation of learning.  Make reading a daily priority in your family schedule.  Learn more about FCPS’ approach to literacy instruction here.

All the best,
Lawrence Caines
Principal
[email protected]

De la Guarida del Director

Esperamos que todas las familias hayan disfrutado del tiempo extra al final de la semana pasada. Nuestro personal ha estado trabajando arduamente para completar calificaciones, analizar evaluaciones y planificar la instrucción para el próximo trimestre.

Este año, una de las metas de nuestro Plan de Innovación y Mejora Escolar (SIIP) se centra en que los estudiantes alcancen sus objetivos de crecimiento o puntos de referencia de fin de año en lectura. Al analizar nuestros datos de mitad de año, observamos que el 81 % de los estudiantes de 1.º a 6.º grado progresaron. También estamos orgullosos de compartir que hemos visto un aumento del 21 % desde el comienzo del año escolar para los estudiantes que están al nivel de grado o superior en lectura. Además, ha habido una disminución del 16% desde el comienzo del año en el número de estudiantes que están un grado por debajo en lectura.

La alfabetización es la base del aprendizaje. Haga de la lectura una prioridad diaria en su horario familiar. Obtenga más información sobre el enfoque de FCPS en materia de alfabetización aquí.

Mis mejores deseos,
Lawrence Caines
Director
[email protected]

DATE CHANGE: Family Bingo Night - February 2

Please join us on Friday, February 2nd at 6 p.m. for BINGO NIGHT benefitting the 6th grade class!

Bingo sheets are $5.00 each for all night play with the chance to win many great prizes.  Pizza and Bingo Sheets can be pre-ordered (please see flyer sent home in the Wednesday folders) and will also be available for sale at the event. 

We look forward to seeing you on the 2nd.

CAMBIO DE FECHA:
Noche de Bingo Familiar - 2 de febrero

Únase a nosotros el viernes 2 de febrero a las 6 p.m. ¡Por la NOCHE DE BINGO a beneficio de la clase de 6° grado!

Las hojas de bingo cuestan $5.00 cada una para jugar toda la noche con la posibilidad de ganar muchos premios fantásticos. Las hojas de pizza y bingo se pueden reservar (consulte el folleto enviado a casa en las carpetas de los miércoles) y también estarán disponibles para la venta en el evento.

Le esperamos el día 2.

Cafeteria Volunteers Needed

Looking for a way to volunteer at the school, but only have 30 minutes during your lunchbreak to make it work? Then do we have the opportunity for you. 

We're looking for parent/grandparent/guardian volunteers to come help in the cafeteria during the students lunch break. Volunteers will support our two cafeteria hostesses Celina and Acxa.

For more information and to sign up, please click here.

Se Necesitan Voluntarios para la Cafetería

¿Está buscando una manera de ser voluntario en la escuela, pero solo tiene 30 minutos durante la pausa del almuerzo para que funcione? Entonces tenemos la oportunidad para usted.

Estamos buscando padres/abuelos/tutores voluntarios para ayudar en la cafetería durante el descanso del almuerzo de los estudiantes. Los voluntarios apoyarán a nuestras dos azafatas de cafetería Celina y Acxa.

Para obtener más información y registrarse, haga clic aquí.

Free Parent Webinars

The Family Resource Center offers free webinars for adults to support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities. Pre-registration for webinars is required to participate in the live event; however, recordings of past webinars are available and organized by topic on the FRC website. Upcoming events include: Youth Mental Health First Aid Workshop on Feb. 9; Behavior Solution Series Proactive Strategies for Elementary Families on Feb. 16, and more. Flyers with more information will be sent home in this week's Wednesday Folder.

Seminarios Web Gratuitos para Padres

El Centro de recursos familiares ofrece seminarios web gratuitos para adultos para apoyar el éxito de todos los estudiantes, incluidos aquellos con desafíos de aprendizaje, necesidades especiales y discapacidades. Se requiere inscripción previa a los seminarios web para participar en el evento en vivo; sin embargo, las grabaciones de seminarios web anteriores están disponibles y organizadas por tema en el sitio web del FRC. Los próximos eventos incluyen: Taller de Primeros Auxilios para la Salud Mental de Jóvenes el 9 de febrero; Serie de Soluciones de Comportamiento Estrategias Proactivas para Familias de Primaria el 16 de febrero y más. Se enviarán a casa folletos con más información en la carpeta de los miércoles de esta semana.

Clothing Donations Needed

Our Family Liaison maintains a small inventory of clothing in all sizes for students who may need a replacement item during the school day.  We are currently in need of the following gently used items:

• Boys long pants sizes 7-12
• Girls long pants (non-leggings) sizes 4 and 10/12. 

Please do not send adult-sized clothing.  Contact Christina Schauss ([email protected]) with any questions. 

Thank you, we appreciate your contributions!

Se Necesitan Donaciones de Ropa

Nuestro Enlace Familiar mantiene un pequeño inventario de ropa en todos los tamaños para los estudiantes que puedan necesitar un artículo de reemplazo durante el día escolar. Actualmente necesitamos los siguientes artículos poco usados:

• Pantalones largos para niño tallas 7-12
• Pantalón largo para niña (no leggins) tallas 4 y 10/12.

Por favor no envíe ropa de talla para adultos. Comuníquese con Christina Schauss ([email protected]) si tiene alguna pregunta.

¡Gracias, apreciamos sus contribuciones!

Mark Your Calendar!

January 2024

31 - Walking Wednesday

February 2024

2 - Family Bingo Night
2 - Pajama Day

5 - National School Counseling Week
7 - Crossing Guard Appreciation Day
7 - Walking Wednesday
7 - Report Cards Sent Home
8 - 100th Day of School

¡Marque Su Calendario!

enero 2024

31 - Miércoles de Caminar

febrero 2024

2 - Noche de Bingo Familiar
2 - Día del Pijama

5 - Semana Nacional de Orientación Escolar
7 - Día de Agradecimiento a los Guardias de Cruce
7 - Miércoles de Caminar
7 - Boletas de Calificaciones Enviadas a Casa
8 - Día 100 de Clases

 

Quick Links

• 2023-24 Calendars
• Fort Hunt ES Parent Handbook
• Student Rights & Responsibilities
• FCPS Schoology Support
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• Educate Fairfax
• FCPS Cares 

8832 Linton Lane Alexandria, VA 22308  | Main Office: 703-619-2600

Attendance: 703-619-2626 | Web | Twitter | Facebook