Dear Forestdale Families,
We look forward to seeing you this evening for Popsicles with the Principal! Due to the heat advisory, the meet and greet with Mrs. Steptoe-Coleman will be in Forestdale's Cafeteria.
We can't wait to see you there!
Sincerely,
Mrs. Steptoe-Coleman, Principal
Dr. LaDonna Tate, Assistant Principal
Follow Forestdale ES on Instagram: @forestdaleelementary and on Facebook @ForestdaleES
Dear Forestdale Families,
We're thrilled to share some fun activities for you to enjoy this summer!
Bookmobile: Mark your calendars for Thursday, July 25th, when the Bookmobile will be making stops in your neighborhood. Get ready to grab some great free books to read over the summer!
Popsicles with the Principal: Join us for a special playdate with the new principal of Forestdale Elementary, Ms. Steptoe-Coleman, on Thursday, August 1, from 6 pm to 7 pm at the school playground. It's a fantastic opportunity for you and your child to meet the new principal and have a great time before the school year starts.
We can't wait to see you there!
Sincerely,
Mrs. Steptoe-Coleman, Principal
Dr. LaDonna Tate, Assistant Principal
Follow Forestdale ES on Instagram: @forestdaleelementary and on Facebook @ForestdaleES
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We cannot thank you enough for helping us have such an amazing year here at Forestdale! Thank you for sharing your most precious gifts with us, and allowing us into your lives. Having the opportunity to develop such deep relationships with your children is a blessing that we do not take for granted.
This week, we hosted our Sixth Grade Promotion Ceremony and celebrated our Falcons moving onto middle school. Some of these students have been Falcons for 7 years! Watching our Sixth Graders grow throughout the year and mature into themselves has been a joy. The strengths they bring to our community and the relationships they have developed with one another will be missed. After our promotion ceremony, we celebrated with our Sixth Grade families and students with a cook-out, which was both fun and delicious! Thank you to all of the families that were able to join us for this proud moment in our students’ lives.
On Wednesday, our students showed off in our annual talent show. This event was a beautiful showcase of our diverse and gifted student body. Talents from singing to dancing, from piano to trivia, from joke-telling to rubix cube-solving were on display. Our Falcons were so brave to get up in front of all of their classmates, teachers, and parents in attendance, and our audience members were supportive and respectful. One of our Sixth Grade students performed in his seventh Forestdale Talent Show! It is a tradition we value and look forward to each year.
Wednesday afternoon we said tearful goodbyes and gave many hugs as we wrapped up the end of the school year with our students. We then took a moment to celebrate as a staff, taking a look back at how far we have come this year and how much growth we have seen in our students and ourselves. One celebration to share with you all - As of this morning, Forestdale Elementary School has decreased our percentage of students who are considered chronically absent from 25.9% at the end of the 2022-23 school year to 14.9% at the end of the 2023-24 school year! This 11% decrease is due in large part to the commitment you as families have made to ensuring your students are here at school and ready to learn every day. Thank you for working with us so intentionally on this goal throughout the year. We look forward to continuing our focus on attendance moving into next school year!
Thank you again for all of your support throughout this school year - We are so proud to be a part of the Forestdale community.
Amy A. Willis, Assistant Principal
Heber Paredes, Principal Designee
Summer Office HoursThe school office will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. beginning Monday, June 24, 2024. We will be accepting student registrations all summer.
Summer Learning LettersSummer Learning Welcome letters will be mailed to students who returned their invitations next week. If you have any questions or concerns, you can contact Mrs. Gordon at [email protected] until June 21st. Ms. Erin Cooper, the Summer Learning Coordinator, can be reached starting July 6th at [email protected].
INOVA Back to School Pediatric Health FairsInova Cares Clinic (ICC) will provide children ages 5+ with free school entrance physicals and immunizations at summer health fairs for children on Medicaid or who are uninsured. The clinics will take place 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on the following dates:
Appointments are required. No walk-ins will be allowed. Call 703-698-2550 for an appointment.
Virtual Mental Wellness ConsultationsThis summer, the FCPS Office of Intervention and Prevention Services will offer virtual Mental Wellness Consultations from Monday, June 24, through Friday, August 2. Any FCPS parent or secondary student can schedule a 45-minute consultation with a school psychologist or social worker by phone or videoconference.
Parents of students in any grade level can request a consultation to receive guidance on how to support their child’s social, emotional, and academic success. Information about community resources will also be provided.
Middle or high school students can request a consultation to receive guidance and support for concerns related to anxiety, mood, behavior, peer or family interactions, or school transitions and changes. Strategies and tools can also be provided to address academic challenges such as organization and time management.
We encourage all families to take advantage of this service. Request a consultation or call and leave a message at 703-503-2520.
Summer Fun for All! Summer Camps and Adapted RecreationThe Family Resource Center (FRC) has a list of dozens of summer camps including general camps, camps for students with a variety of needs, and camps for children of military personnel.
They’ve also prepared a list of adapted resources, sorted by activity, that are inclusive for children and adults of various physical abilities.
Learn more by calling 703-204-3941, emailing [email protected], or visiting the FRC webpage.
Register for KindergartenDo you or a neighbor have a child will be 5 years of age by September 30, 2024, and do you plan on sending them to kindergarten for the 2024-2025 school year? If your child is ready for kindergarten, call the school so we may add you to our list of rising kindergarten students.
Please fill out the form on our website here so you are put on our list of incoming kindergarten families for 2024-2025. Please share this information with any neighbors who have a child that meets the above criteria.
All the forms needed for registration can be found on the FCPS web here
6530 Elder Avenue Springfield, Virginia 22150
| Office: 703-313-4300
Attendance: 703-313-4343 | Health Room: 703-313-4310
Web | Twitter: @ForestdaleES
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As we approach the end of another incredible school year, I want to take a moment to reflect on the amazing events and celebrations we’ve had this week. It has been a time filled with joy, pride, and community spirit.
Firstly, a huge congratulations to our 6th graders for their historic win in the kickball game against the staff! This is the first time in 18 years that the students have claimed victory, and we couldn’t be prouder of their teamwork and determination.
Our Field Day was a tremendous success, spanning from Kindergarten through 6th grade. We are deeply grateful to the staff and community members who supported and assisted with this event, ensuring it was a fun and memorable day for all our students. Huge shoutout to our P.E. teacher Ms. Brod and Ms. Clark for setting up and facilitating this amazing day!
A special moment this week was welcoming Lewis High School seniors back to our halls, celebrating their upcoming graduation. It was heartwarming to see them return to their elementary roots, and we extend our sincere thanks to the staff who donated snacks and facilitated this event, making it a memorable experience for everyone involved. Big thanks to our phenomenal School Counselors, Ms. Felix and Ms. Echaide-Viafara for coordinating and facilitating!
Additionally, our students from grades 3 to 6 had the pleasure of enjoying a visit from an author who came to read to them. This enriching experience was made possible by Ms. Wixtrom, and we are grateful for her effort in organizing such an inspiring event for our young readers.
Looking ahead, we are excited about the activities planned for the last week of school. We have a range of events designed to close out the year on a high note and celebrate the hard work and accomplishments of our students and staff. If you are planning to attend any of the events next week, please make sure to bring a photo ID in order to check in at the Main Office.
Thank you for your continued support and engagement with our school community. Let’s make the final week of this school year as memorable as the ones we’ve just celebrated.
Heber Paredes, Principal Designee
Amy A. Willis, Assistant Principal
Important Dates June 116th Grade Promotion
Reminder: Last day of School - June 12The last day of the 2022-23 school year is Wednesday, June 12, and students will be dismissed early at 1:35 p.m.
Please make sure you have made arrangements for the early release on Friday, especially for kindergartners who must be met at the bus stop in the afternoon.
See the complete FCPS 2023-2024 school year calendar.
Medication Pick-Up from Health Room Pickup Deadline: Wednesday, June 12, 1:35 p.m.All medications stored in the health room need to be picked up by a parent or guardian by 1:35 p.m. on Wednesday,, June 12. Any medication remaining in the health room after that time will be destroyed. Medication cannot be sent home with your student.
Have Your Student Check the Lost & FoundOur lost and found is growing! With the warmer weather in the afternoon, jackets and other garments are often left behind. We'd like to make sure they get returned to your student. Please have your student check the lost and found or come by after school!
All items left in the lost and found after June 12 will be donated.
📈 SOL Scores Posted in SIS ParentVUEFamilies can find Standards of Learning (SOL) reports for spring testing in the SIS ParentVUE Documents section on or before the last day of school. Log in to your ParentVUE account to access the following:
Visit the FCPS website for additional information about spring assessment reporting practices and timelines.
Need help creating a SIS ParentVUE account? This video walks through the steps. Find out more about SIS ParentVUE.
INOVA Back to School Pediatric Health FairsInova Cares Clinic (ICC) will provide children ages 5+ with free school entrance physicals and immunizations at summer health fairs for children on Medicaid or who are uninsured. The clinics will take place 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on the following dates:
Appointments are required. No walk-ins will be allowed. Call 703-698-2550 for an appointment.
Virtual Mental Wellness ConsultationsThis summer, the FCPS Office of Intervention and Prevention Services will offer virtual Mental Wellness Consultations from Monday, June 24, through Friday, August 2. Any FCPS parent or secondary student can schedule a 45-minute consultation with a school psychologist or social worker by phone or videoconference.
Parents of students in any grade level can request a consultation to receive guidance on how to support their child’s social, emotional, and academic success. Information about community resources will also be provided.
Middle or high school students can request a consultation to receive guidance and support for concerns related to anxiety, mood, behavior, peer or family interactions, or school transitions and changes. Strategies and tools can also be provided to address academic challenges such as organization and time management.
We encourage all families to take advantage of this service. Request a consultation or call and leave a message at 703-503-2520.
Summer Fun for All! Summer Camps and Adapted RecreationThe Family Resource Center (FRC) has a list of dozens of summer camps including general camps, camps for students with a variety of needs, and camps for children of military personnel.
They’ve also prepared a list of adapted resources, sorted by activity, that are inclusive for children and adults of various physical abilities.
Learn more by calling 703-204-3941, emailing [email protected], or visiting the FRC webpage.
Summer Office HoursThe school office will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. beginning Monday, June 24, 2024. We will be accepting student registrations all summer.
Register for KindergartenDo you or a neighbor have a child will be 5 years of age by September 30, 2024, and do you plan on sending them to kindergarten for the 2024-2025 school year? If your child is ready for kindergarten, call the school so we may add you to our list of rising kindergarten students.
Please fill out the form on our website here so you are put on our list of incoming kindergarten families for 2024-2025. Please share this information with any neighbors who have a child that meets the above criteria.
All the forms needed for registration can be found on the FCPS web here
6530 Elder Avenue Springfield, Virginia 22150
| Office: 703-313-4300
Attendance: 703-313-4343 | Health Room: 703-313-4310
Web | Twitter: @ForestdaleES
Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.
Important Dates June 3-6K-6 Device Collection
June 7Field Day
June 116th Grade Promotion
June 12Last Day of School- 2 hour Early Release,
Student Talent Show
See the complete FCPS 2023-2024 school year calendar.
Your Input Wanted for Class GroupingsCreating class assignments for next year requires careful consideration and the involvement of many staff members. We know that a good teacher-student match and a productive mix of children are ingredients for success. Please use this form to share information about your child that the school staff should know, particularly regarding friendships or neighborhood factors, by Wednesday, June 5, 2023. Our teachers and staff use this information as an additional data point when creating preliminary class groupings.
We ask that you do not request specific teachers. This does not take into account the many variables to be considered such as grade-level changes or reductions in staff. It is far more valuable to share particular academic or behavioral needs or concerns. Be assured that with or without a parent letter, your child’s strengths and needs are considered in this lengthy and complex process.
Thank you for sharing this important information with us so we can best meet your child's needs next year!
Field Day is June 7! Volunteers NeededField Day and the Staff vs. 6th Grade Kickball Game are this month! Both events will be on Friday, June 7.
Dress Students AppropriatelyPlease make sure students come to school dressed for outdoor physical activities and water activities (athletic clothing, footwear, and perhaps a full change of clothes). Students should wear sunscreen, sun glasses, and perhaps a hat. Students should bring a water bottle marked with their name if possible.
Volunteers NeededWe are in need of volunteers to assist with stations and logistics. If interested, please sign up HERE or complete and return the paper form that came home in Thursday Folders and let your teacher know. Volunteers will receive confirmation and more training details after signing-up.
Grades 3rd-6th: 9:15-11:00 a.m.
Grades K-2nd: 12:30- 1:45 p.m.
Questions? Contact our physical education teachers, Ms. Kenan Brod. Thank you in advance for your support on that fun day!
Medication Pick-Up from Health Room Pickup Deadline: Wednesday, June 12, 1:35 p.m.All medications stored in the health room need to be picked up by a parent or guardian by 1:35 p.m. on Wednesday,, June 12. Any medication remaining in the health room after that time will be destroyed. Medication cannot be sent home with your student.
Laptop & Charger CollectionAll student devices (iPads for PreK and kindergarten; laptops for grades 1-6) will be collected June 3-6 so that they may be reimaged and prepared for fall. All students will receive an FCPS-issued device again next year.
If you have not done so already, please make sure your child's charger has been returned to school with their laptop. Families will be charged for lost chargers.
Enjoy Fun and Resources 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. Enjoy face painting, food, music, a moonbounce, alpaca petting, storytime, and student performances — all at no cost! Additional food trucks will be on site selling a variety of treats.
Families are invited to take part in engaging educational activities designed to spark curiosity and growth. Community organizations will be providing tips, resources, and helpful information. Visit the Summer Extravaganza webpage for details and register to attend. Registration is not required, but it’s helpful for planning purposes.
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Student Testing Results Coming SoonLater this month, you will begin receiving your child’s spring assessment results. If you aren’t sure what assessments your child took this year, view this list of tests by grade level on FCPS’ website.
How the results are delivered depends on the test. Scores will be posted in SIS ParentVUE, or sent by mail or from the school or testing organization. Learn what to expect regarding assessment reporting practices and timelines.
Visit FCPS’ website for additional information about student assessments, including what each assessment is testing for and how to interpret the test results. Caregivers should contact their children’s teacher with any testing questions.
📈 New SOL Growth Reports for Grade 3-8 TestsVirginia Standards of Learning (SOL) test results, along with other student data, help demonstrate in which subjects or topics students may need additional academic support.
In order to help interpret SOL results for parents, the Virginia Department of Education has released new Standards of Learning Growth Parent Reports for families of students who took grade 3-8 SOL math and reading tests this spring.
The Growth Parent Report ties together scores from fall and winter Virginia Growth Assessments (VGA) with the student’s current spring SOL results to show their trend in academic progress this year.
Learn how to understand your student’s grade 3-8 SOL results and find resources to support their ongoing learning.Support Your Child’s Success in SIS ParentVUE Signing up for a SIS ParentVUE account helps you to support your child’s academic success. Caregivers can view important information in ParentVUE such as attendance, grades, progress reports, and assessment scores.
Once you have activated a ParentVUE account for an FCPS student, you will keep the same account until the student graduates. Information about students in the same family can be accessed through the same ParentVUE account. A SIS ParentVUE app is available for Apple and Android devices.
Need help creating a SIS ParentVUE account? This video explains the steps. Find out more. To create a new account, please contact [school registrar’s name and email] for an activation letter.
If you already have an account, be sure your contact information is up-to-date. Parents/guardians can update their phone numbers or email addresses in the Parent/Guardian section. View more information. Click to edit this placeholder text.
School Board Votes to Adopt Fiscal Year 2025 Approved BudgetThe Fairfax County School Board to adopt Fairfax County Public Schools’ (FCPS) Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Approved Budget at their board meeting last night. The FY 2025 Approved Budget totals $3.7 billion — a net increase of $233.2 million or 6.6% over the previous year.
The FY 2025 Approved Budget focuses on providing educational excellence for all students and ensuring that employees’ hard work and dedication are acknowledged through competitive compensation. Both of these efforts fully align with the FCPS 2023-30 Strategic Plan.
Nearly 86% of the Approved Budget is targeted at instruction. Key budget highlights include funding for a 4% compensation increase for all employees; maintaining existing class size formulas and providing necessary support to all students; and expanding athletics offerings, additional athletic trainers, and enhanced stipends for fine and performing arts.
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LGBTQIA+ Pride MonthIn the month of June, we recognize the resilience and determination of the many individuals who are fighting to live freely and authentically. We stand with those facing an ongoing struggle against discrimination and injustice. This Pride Month, we affirm our obligation to uphold the dignity of all people. Each individual in our school community should feel valued for who they are. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.Click to edit this placeholder text.
Caribbean American Heritage Month
FCPS celebrates the rich diversity and honors the many contributions of immigrants of Caribbean heritage to our nation during the month of June. Caribbean individuals are some of the most ethnically diverse in the world. There are more than 8.5 million individuals in the United States born in the Caribbean or of Caribbean ancestry. Learn more about Caribbean American Heritage Month.
6530 Elder Avenue Springfield, Virginia 22150
| Office: 703-313-4300
Attendance: 703-313-4343 | Health Room: 703-313-4310
Web | Twitter: @ForestdaleES
