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Shining Star Shoutouts

Congrats to our Shining Star Shoutout students for this past week.  The students recognized for demonstrating what it means to be a Shining Star this week are:

1st Grade:

Andrew Husband (Responsible)

2nd Grade:

Xaida Stokes (Ready to Shine)

Eva Rivas (Responsible)

Benoit Kamnang Nkwetchou (Responsible)

Chris Urbina Ayala (Ready to Shine)

Alyssa Temple (Ready to Shine)

Estefany Deras Funez (Ready to Shine)

Mithun Prabhu (Ready to Shine)

Meha Puna (Ready to Shine)

Cristopher Sumoza Reyes (Responsible)

Dylan Reyes Figueroa (Responsible)

Ela Gwyn (Respectful)

3rd Grade:

Carl Mbus Mbock (Respectful)

Bhargav Krishnan (Respectful)

Caden Haynes (Ready to Shine)

Nathan Park (Ready to Shine)

Alexa Nataren Franco (Responsible)

4th Grade:

Lateen Alshammari (Responsible)

Kaysen Campbell (Ready to Shine)

Laya Sentihilkumar (Ready to Shine)

Maaz Ahamed Syed (Respectful)

Emily Jovel Gamez (Responsible)

5th Grade:

Aidan Martinez (Responsible)

Diego Abrego Otero (Ready to Shine)

6th Grade:

Christopher Casas Alegre (Ready to Shine)

Likshika "Maggie" Pentiboina (Ready to Shine)

Flo Boateng (Ready to Shine)

Coates Family Math Night Thank You, Omicron Kappa Kappa Chapter of Omega Psi Phi!

We are grateful to the Omicron Kappa Kappa Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity for their incredible support during our Family Math Night! Their service helped make this event a huge success, bringing together over 630 attendees for an evening of fun, learning, and community engagement. We appreciate their partnership and look forward to working together again in the future!

Weekly Attendance Incentive Winners

The classrooms with the highest attendance percentage this week are:

• Ms. Abdullah's 1st Grade Class
• Ms. Myers' 5th Grade Class

Congratulations! 🎉

February 24th is an Early Release Monday

February 24th is an Early Release Monday. Dismissal at 1:00PM.

Your child will follow the same dismissal procedure (staying or leaving early) as you indicated for the previous early release dates unless you've been contacted by the school directly.

In order to ensure student safety, please do not make any last minute changes to your child's dismissal plan. 

Ramadan Accommodation Form

As we prepare for Ramadan, we want to ensure that we support our students who are observing. Please take a moment to complete this form to let us know what accommodations your student(s) may need during the school day. This will help us plan appropriately and provide a comfortable and inclusive environment.

The form is due by Friday, February 28th, so accommodations can begin on Monday, March 3rd.

Student Fasting Meal Kits

Student Fasting Meal Kits for February 28 - March 28

Thanks to a new program from the Virginia Department of Education, students who are fasting during the school day between February 28 and March 28 can now take school meal kits home at the end of the day. Families will need to fill out a weekly Fasting Meals Request Form for their child or children to receive school meal kits. A separate form must be filled out for each week and each student. To receive meal kits for Friday, February 28, and the week of March 3, please submit the first request form by Monday, February 24. Visit the FNS webpage for more information, including weekly request forms and deadlines.

Ramadan Begins on Feb. 28th at Sundown

Ramadan begins at sundown on Friday, February 28. This day is an evening-only observance day. There is school on these days, but certain activities that cannot be made up can not take place after school. See the complete school year calendar. Throughout the year, as we celebrate and recognize various cultural holidays and observances, families are encouraged to fill out this form regarding accommodations, including but not limited to those around lunch, prayer/meditation and silent reflection spaces and times, and instruction. 

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra learning resources. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes; on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring; essay editing; and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

Recognize Our Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

The FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. We invite you to submit your story, so we can all acknowledge the good work of FCPS employees, specifically at Coates.

Mark Your Calendar

24th- 3 hour Early Release Monday @ 1pm

28th- Ramadan begins at sundown

 

3rd-7th- Read Across America Spirit Week & School Social Worker Week

5th- Ash Wednesday/ Orthodox Ash Wednesday

7th- Class Group Pictures & 6th grade Panoramic Picture

9th- Daylight Saving Time Begins (Spring Forward)

14th- Coates vs. Deer Park ES Staff Basketball Game @ Westfield HS- 6-8pm

17th- 3 hour Early Release Monday @ 1pm & St. Patrick's Day

19th- Family Book Fair Night- 5:30-7:30pm & PTA Meeting- 6-7pm

20th- Nowruz

28th- End of 3rd Quarter

31th- Eid al-Fitr- No School

*The full FCPS 2024-2025 calendar can be accessed here.

2480 River Birch Road, Herndon, VA 20171  |  Main Phone: 703.713.3000 
Report Absence Online  |  Attendance Phone: 703.713.3030
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Shining Star Shoutouts

Congrats to our Shining Star Shoutout students for this past week.  The students recognized for demonstrating what it means to be a Shining Star this week are:

1st Grade:

Helia Jalali (Respectful)

Alina Jaghori (Responsible)

Jefferson Anaya Candray (Ready to Shine)

Chaz Divine (Ready to Shine)

2nd Grade:

Alma Islam (Responsible)

Eyuel Alene (Ready to Shine)

Hanan Mihretie (Responsible)

Nahom Aragawu (Ready to Shine)

Aileen Rodriguez Umana (Ready to Shine)

3rd Grade:

Mason Hammond (Ready to Shine)

4th Grade:

CJ Guzman (Ready to Shine)

5th Grade:

Harper Johnson (Ready to Shine)

Leonid Ungefug (Responsible)

6th Grade:

Brooklyn Simmons (Ready to Shine)

Omauri Campbell (Respectful)

Zahra Osman (Ready to Shine)

Antwanett Elmasri (Responsible)

Thank You to the Educational and Charitable Foundation!

We are thrilled to share that Mrs. Hinkson accepted a $2,500 Teacher Grant Award from The Educational and Charitable Foundation on behalf of Lutie Lewis Coates Elementary School this past weekend! This generous award has provided funding for innovative projects that will greatly benefit our students. With this grant, Coates has purchased laptops and a Talk and Listen Wireless Language Interpretation System, enhancing learning experiences for all.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to The Educational and Charitable Foundation for their support and commitment to education. Thank you for making a difference in our school community!

Weekly Attendance Incentive Winners

The classrooms with the highest attendance percentage this week are:

• Ms. Solotruk's 3rd Grade Class
• Mrs. Keune's 6th Grade Class

Congratulations! 🎉

Presidents Day- No School

All schools and offices will be closed on Monday, February 17, for the Presidents Day holiday. See the complete school year calendar.

Family Math Night Feb. 19th

Join us on Wednesday, February 19h for our Family Math Night!  Dinner is provided for all attendees.  In the event of a weather disruption, our rain date will be Wednesday, February 26th.

February 24th is an Early Release Monday

February 24th is an Early Release Monday. Dismissal at 1:00PM.

Your child will follow the same dismissal procedure (staying or leaving early) as you indicated for the previous early release dates unless you've been contacted by the school directly.

In order to ensure student safety, please do not make any last minute changes to your child's dismissal plan. The last date to make a change is February 19th. Please contact the office or your child’s teacher if a change is needed.

Student Fasting Meal Kits

Student Fasting Meal Kits for February 28 - March 28

Thanks to a new program from the Virginia Department of Education, students who are fasting during the school day between February 28 and March 28 can now take school meal kits home at the end of the day. Families will need to fill out a weekly Fasting Meals Request Form for their child or children to receive school meal kits. A separate form must be filled out for each week and each student. To receive meal kits for Friday, February 28, and the week of March 3, please submit the first request form by Monday, February 24. Visit the FNS webpage for more information, including weekly request forms and deadlines.

You can login to view the Schoology folder here.

🐻 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. Fairfax County public schools typically conduct kindergarten registration events, including orientation, between January and April. Eligible children can also be registered throughout the summer, but registering your child early helps us prepare and ensure we have the teachers and resources needed on the first day of school. 

Families should prepare for registration by gathering documents and completing forms on the FCPS kindergarten registration webpage. FCPS offers support and resources for all families to help with registration and the transition to kindergarten. For support in other languages, visit the kindergarten registration webpage.

✨ A strong start is Goal 1 of the 2023-30 Strategic Plan.

Summer Camp Guide

Fairfax County has a wide variety of summer camps.  Check out this guide to look at camp offerings.  It's never too early to enroll as summer camps tend to fill up quickly.

🤧 Protect Yourself and Your Community From the Flu

Fairfax County is experiencing very high levels of influenza (flu) illness. The Fairfax County Health Department reports that visits to emergency departments and urgent care centers for flu-like illness have increased, especially among children, and multiple flu outbreaks have occurred in our community and school settings. Read a letter from the health department. 

The health department suggests taking the following steps to reduce the spread of flu and other germs:    

• Cover coughs and sneezes. If you must be around others while ill, wearing a mask can help reduce spread.
• Wash hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available (with supervision for younger children).
• Clean frequently touched surfaces.

According to the health department, to help prevent or reduce the spread of illness it is important for individuals who are sick to stay home and away from others until symptoms improve and until they have been free of fever for at least 24 hours. Visit this Attendance webpage for guidance on when your child should go to school. 

Breaking Down the Budget: Investing in Our Classrooms

Did you know that more than 85% of FCPS’ budget stays in our classrooms? Currently, 92.5% of FCPS staff are school-based, more than neighboring school districts. We are in the middle of FCPS’ annual budget process, which includes opportunities for you to give feedback. Learn more about the proposed FCPS FY 2026 Proposed Budget and see the budget timeline. 

 

Recognize Our Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

The FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. We invite you to submit your story, so we can all acknowledge the good work of FCPS employees, specifically at Coates.

Mark Your Calendar

17th- President's Day- No School

19th- PTA Meeting- 6-7pm & Math & Family Dinner Night- 7-8pm

24th- 3 hour Early Release Monday @ 1pm

28th- Ramadan begins at sundown

 

3rd-7th- Read Across America Spirit Week & School Social Worker Week

5th- Ash Wednesday/ Orthodox Ash Wednesday

7th- Class Group Pictures & 6th grade Panoramic Picture

9th- Daylight Saving Time Begins (Spring Forward)

14th- Coates vs. Deer Park ES Staff Basketball Game @ Westfield HS- 6-8pm

17th- 3 hour Early Release Monday @ 1pm & St. Patrick's Day

19th- Family Book Fair Night- 5:30-7:30pm & PTA Meeting- 6-7pm

20th- Nowruz

28th- End of 3rd Quarter

31th- Eid al-Fitr- No School

*The full FCPS 2024-2025 calendar can be accessed here.

2480 River Birch Road, Herndon, VA 20171  |  Main Phone: 703.713.3000 
Report Absence Online  |  Attendance Phone: 703.713.3030
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Shining Star Shoutouts

Congrats to our Shining Star Shoutout students for this past week.  The students recognized for demonstrating what it means to be a Shining Star this week are:

Kindergarten:

Liam DeGuzman (Ready to Shine)

1st Grade:

Nehashree Ramkumar (Responsible)

Ruhaan Suhail (Respectful)

Joanna Dorestant (Ready to Shine)

Mamoon Khan (Responsible)

Amarie'a Lacey (Respectful)

Sabeen Summer (Respectful)

2nd Grade:

Sofia Abrego Otero (Respectful)

Carols Portillo Escobar (Respectful)

Joseph Courtney (Respectful)

Leia Murray (Ready to Shine)

Eva Rivas (Ready to Shine)

Dylan Reyes Figueroa (Ready to Shine)

Mateo Urbina (Ready to Shine)

3rd Grade:

Rashmi Chaudhary (Ready to Shine)

Yolanda Cruz Martinez (Respectful & Ready to Shine)

Imani da Silva (Respectful)

Bradley Knapik (Respectful)

Carl Mbus Mbock (Ready to Shine)

Bhargav Krishnan (Responsible)

4th Grade:

Sourabh Gouda (Ready to Shine)

Braylen Brazelton (Responsible)

5th Grade:

Fredis Alvarenga Cerros (Responsible)

Lidia Mitiku (Respectful)

Bethania Getu (Ready to Shine)

Saharsh Maram (Responsible)

Yusra Burhan (Responsible)

Weekly Attendance Incentive Winners

The classrooms with the highest attendance percentage this week are:

• Mr. Bell's 4th Grade Class
• Ms. Hammons' 1st Grade Class
• Ms. Connole's Kindergarten Class

Congratulations! 🎉

Spelling Bee Winners!

Huge congrats to our Coates ES Spelling Bee winners! A round of applause for Dheera Balaji (1st place), Sulaiman Khan (2nd place), and Shritha Adhira (3rd place)!

Even bigger cheers for Dheera, who will be representing Coates at the Regional Spelling Bee on March 23rd at 2pm at Lake Braddock Secondary School! Come out and cheer her on if you can!

We're also incredibly proud of all our classroom spelling bee winners and students who bravely took the stage. Thank you for sharing your vulnerability and talent with the Coates community. We can't wait to see what you accomplish next year!

Family Math Night Feb. 19th

Join us for family math night at Coates from 6-8 PM. See this flyer for more info. Please use this additional link if you are planning on coming and need transportation / child care (non-school aged).

February 24th is an Early Release Monday

February 24th is an Early Release Monday. Dismissal at 1:00PM.

Your child will follow the same dismissal procedure (staying or leaving early) as you indicated for the previous early release dates unless you've been contacted by the school directly.

In order to ensure student safety, please do not make any last minute changes to your child's dismissal plan. The last date to make a change is February 19th. Please contact the office or your child’s teacher if a change is needed.

SEL Screener Information

The Spring Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener will be administered to students in grades 3-6 during the week of March 10-14. Students use the SEL Screener twice a year to share their perspectives on how well their school and community help them develop skills they need to succeed. The screener works by asking questions or presenting statements that students can think about and respond to. More information is available about the SEL Screener by accessing this link: https://www.fcps.edu/student-tests-and-assessments/student-assessment-details/social-emotional-screener  

 

If you have any questions please reach out to our SEL Screener Lead, Cari Allen, at [email protected] or 703-713-3000.

Immunizations

Please make sure your child has all of their necessary immunizations. Remember, all students are required to be immunized against certain diseases to attend school in Virginia. This is an important part of keeping children healthy!

Starting Monday, May 19, students who have not provided proof of immunization may not be allowed to attend school. You can check your child’s immunization status and submit updated immunization information by accessing SIS ParentVUE. 

Please check with your healthcare provider to make sure your child is up to date on required immunizations for the 2024-25 school year. If your child needs an immunization, make an appointment with your healthcare provider, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or view other Immunization Resources. Be wise and immunize!

🗺️ Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration

Countywide lottery registration for the Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program for first graders in the 2025-26 school year is open through Thursday, February 13, at 4 p.m. Current pre-K students may apply for the kindergarten immersion program through Thursday, March 6, at 4 p.m.  

Dual Language Immersion is available in French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. 

Interested parents/caregivers may attend an informational meeting at the school site. Visit the Dual Language Immersion Program registration page for a list of meetings by language offered. 

Get more details on the DLI Program webpage.

🧲 Learn About Science, Technology, and Arts Magnet Schools

Three FCPS elementary magnet schools — Hunters Woods, Bailey’s Primary, and Bailey’s Upper — provide enhanced learning programs in science, technology, and performing arts. 

Registration for the 2025-26 elementary magnet lottery is open Tuesday, March 4, through Friday, April 4. Learn more about the programs on the Elementary Magnet Schools page and information on the magnet lottery on our Registration page.

Student Voices at Family Summit

The 2025 FCPS Family Summit will take place on Saturday, March 15, at South Lakes High School. Visit the Family Summit webpage for more information. 

At the event, FCPS students will be invited to showcase projects and advocacy efforts around inclusivity in schools. This is a great resume-building opportunity, and students can earn service hours as well. Students may share their work in a share-fair environment using posters, essays, videos, songs, or art. They will interact with attendees through conversations about their work, ideas, and efforts to foster inclusivity in school communities. 

Students must use this Google Form to participate by Monday, February 17. A list of possible projects is also on the form. More information will be provided after the student’s submission is received. Please contact Manuel Gomez Portillo with any questions. 

✨ Centering student voice is part of FCPS’ Strategic Plan Goal 2: Safe, Supported, Included, and Empowered. 

Recognize Our Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

The FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. We invite you to submit your story, so we can all acknowledge the good work of FCPS employees, specifically at Coates.

Mark Your Calendar

10th-14th- Kindness Spirit Week

12th- 100th Day of School

13th- Winter Chorus Concert 6-7pm; Coates cafeteria

14th- Valentine's Day

17th- President's Day- No School

19th- PTA Meeting- 6-7pm & Math & Family Dinner Night- 7-8pm

24th- 3 hour Early Release Monday @ 1pm

28th- Ramadan begins at sundown

 

*The full FCPS 2024-2025 calendar can be accessed here.

2480 River Birch Road, Herndon, VA 20171  |  Main Phone: 703.713.3000 
Report Absence Online  |  Attendance Phone: 703.713.3030
Web | Facebook | Twitter

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

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Shining Star Shoutouts

Congrats to our Shining Star Shoutout students for this past week.  The students recognized for demonstrating what it means to be a Shining Star this week are:

Kindergarten:

Abdulrahman Jusu (Ready to Shine)

Beckett Sel (Ready to Shine)

Kycen Banks  (Ready to Shine)

1st Grade:

Ehsan Tora (Ready to Shine)

Gabrielle Brazley (Ready to Shine)

Edris Hiravi (Ready to Shine)

Aspen Rode (Responsible)

2nd Grade:

Ashlyn Ambrocio Orozco (Ready to Shine)

Emile-Charis Mbus Mbock (Respectful)

Olivia Paris Rubeck (Respectful)

Christopher Urbina Ayala (Ready to Shine)

Josue Artiga Alvarez (Responsible)

Ojaswi Bhattarai (Ready to Shine)

Liam Warren (Respectful)

Marlon Fuentes (Ready to Shine)

Justin Martinez (Ready to Shine)

3rd Grade:

Turki Alhajri (Ready to Shine)

Bhargav Krishnan (Responsible)

Bradley Knapik (Responsible)

Ezana Somano (Respectful)

4th Grade:

Kaysen Campbell (Ready to Shine)

Sahasri Mallepally (Responsible)

Fartun Hashi (Ready to Shine)

Abdullah Dokhi (Responsible)

Rithik Kunchala (Ready to Shine)

Kendra Cruz-Rangel (Ready to Shine)

6th Grade:

Abdulhamed Albis (Responsible)

Weekly Attendance Incentive Winners

Classroom Attendance Winners:

The classrooms with the highest attendance percentage this week are:

• Ms. Keune's 6th Grade Class
• Ms. Balangyao's 3rd Grade Class

 

Classroom Runner's Up :

• 6th - Mr. Chierichella and Mr. Green  
• 5th -  Ms. Biedermann  
• 4th - Ms. Edwards 
• 2nd - Ms. Wanamaker
• 1st - Ms. O’Hara 
• K - Ms. McCormick

Congratulations! 🎉

Family Math Night Feb. 19th

Join us for family math night at Coates from 6-8 PM. See this flyer for more info. Please use this additional link if you are planning on coming and need transportation / child care (non-school aged).

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.

We Love Our Counselors!

February 3-7 is National School Counseling Week, 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. Thank you to our school counselors, Mrs. Allen, Mrs. Eagan and Ms. Young! Learn more about the role of school counselors in FCPS.

February 24th is an Early Release Monday

February 24th is an Early Release Monday. Dismissal at 1:00PM.

Your child will follow the same dismissal procedure (staying or leaving early) as you indicated for the previous early release dates unless you've been contacted by the school directly.

In order to ensure student safety, please do not make any last minute changes to your child's dismissal plan. The last date to make a change is February 19th. Please contact the office or your child’s teacher if a change is needed.

What is POG?

You might have heard your student talking about Portrait of a Graduate, or POG. What is POG?  Very simply, POG is FCPS’ commitment to ensuring that all students have the skills to be successful today, tomorrow and in the future. POG is broken down into 5 important attributes:  Communicator, Collaborator, Ethical & Global Citizen, Creative & Critical Thinker, and Goal-Directed & Resilient Individual.  Consider how you, as an adult, use these skills to find success in your life!  

 

Students use these skills in all school subjects, at home, in the community, with hobbies and interests, in future careers, passions, and relationships.  We’re not focusing on these skills as an extra thing, students will use these skills to learn all content areas in a deeper, more meaningful way.  

 

How will students focus on these skills?

• Learn about the skills, including what they look and sound like, and why they are important  
• Apply the skills as they learn in their classes 
• Reflect on HOW the skills helped them find success and WHAT they can do to grow

 

Throughout the year, you’ll see and hear how your child is learning to discuss their growth in these important skills. We’re excited to see them developing skills that will help them throughout life!

🧸 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. 
5. Schedule an appointment.

After the appointment at the school (the student and one guardian must be present), the student will be ready for our Coates Kindergarten Orientation on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, 5-6pm. Read more about the registration process. For additional information, please contact Mrs. Marney, our school registrar.

💻 Try Online Registration

Online registration for the 2025-26 school year is open. Parents/caregivers may register their children online for kindergarten through 12th grade. Learn how to begin the online registration process. 

When registering, parents/caregivers will need to create or log in to an existing SIS ParentVUE account.

Office of the Ombuds: At Your Service!

Ombuds staff engage with FCPS employees, families, and students to offer resources and improve the experience of each and every member of the FCPS community. They work as an independent confidential resource to help get answers to questions, resolve concerns, and hear complaints regarding FCPS matters.  

Ombuds office staff members are available to help resolve disagreements between parents/caregivers and schools. They do not change or make decisions, policies, or regulations; take sides; or provide legal advice.

Anyone with concerns, questions, or complaints to share with the Office of the Ombuds may call 571-423-4014, email [email protected], or visit their webpage, where you may Submit a Question.

Recognize Our Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

The FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. We invite you to submit your story, so we can all acknowledge the good work of FCPS employees, specifically at Coates.

Mark Your Calendar

3rd-7th- National School Counselor's Week

5th- Crossing Guard Appreciation Day

7th- Spelling Bee- 6-8:30pm

10th-14th- Kindness Spirit Week

12th- 100th Day of School

13th- Winter Chorus Concert 6-7pm

14th- Valentine's Day

17th- President's Day- No School

19th- PTA Meeting- 6-7pm & Math & Family Dinner Night- 7-8pm

24th- 3 hour Early Release Monday @ 1pm

28th- Ramadan begins at sundown

 

*The full FCPS 2024-2025 calendar can be accessed here.

2480 River Birch Road, Herndon, VA 20171  |  Main Phone: 703.713.3000 
Report Absence Online  |  Attendance Phone: 703.713.3030
Web | Facebook | Twitter

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

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Shining Star Shoutouts

Congrats to our Shining Star Shoutout students for this past week.  The students recognized for demonstrating what it means to be a Shining Star this week are:

Kindergarten:

Zidane Mohammed (Responsible)

Ruth Tilahun (Responsible)

Nathan Mengistu (Responsible)

1st Grade:

Abla Gator (Ready to Shine)

Devan Joseph (Ready to Shine)

Tenuun Gersenz (Respectful)

2nd Grade:

Junior Kargbo (Respectful)

Axel Vivas Bautista (Ready to Shine)

Julian Miguel (Responsible)

Sana Atayee (Responsible)

Jayden Shin (Respectful)

Ella Gwyn (Respectful)

Amir Nasrati (Respectful)

Rose Motey (Respectful)

3rd Grade:

Lucas Martinez (Respectful)

Sreshta Aakula (Respectful)

Rashmi Chaudhary (Respectful)

Felix Cash (Respectful)

Bhargav Krishnan (Respectful)

Soliana Fkadu (Ready to Shine)

Carl Mbus Mbock (Responsible)

4th Grade:

Joseph Gomez Maldonado (Responsible)

Bushra Musadiq (Ready to Shine)

Eva Hamdard (Responsible)

Jordan Major (Ready to Shine)

6th Grade:

Kiara Castellano (Ready to Shine)

Weekly Attendance Incentive Winners

The classrooms with the highest attendance percentage this week, earning 15 extra minutes of recess today, are:

• Mrs. Vargas' Kindergarten Class
• Ms. Swigart's 2nd Grade Class
• Ms. Balangyao's 3rd Grade Class
• Mrs. Myers' 5th Grade Class

Congratulations! 🎉

End of 2nd Quarter

Tuesday, January 28, is the last day of the quarter. This is a full day of school.

See the complete school year calendar.

Lunar New Year- Teacher Workday

Lunar New Year falls at quarter end on Wednesday, January 29. The day will be a teacher work day and there will be no school for students. See the complete school year calendar.

Spelling Bee Volunteers Needed

PTA needs your help!  In order to for our beloved spelling bee to take place we need parents to volunteer to assist with the school bee. We are planning on holding the school bee in person on Friday, February 7th, 2025 beginning at 6:00pm (arrival at 5:30pm). If you are interested in volunteering please email Mrs. Gray at [email protected].

Family Math Night Feb. 19th

Join us for family math night at Coates from 6-8 PM. See this flyer for more info. Please use this additional link if you are planning on coming and need transportation / child care (non-school aged).

📍 Virtual Community Boundary Review Meetings

If you have not been able to attend a Community Boundary Review meeting yet, it’s not too late! The following virtual meetings will have the same format and information available as the previous in-person meetings:

• Saturday, January 25, 9:30-11 a.m. 
• Monday, January 27, 6:30-8 p.m. 
• Tuesday, January 28, 6:30-8 p.m. 
• Monday, February 10, 6:30-8 p.m. 

Click one of the dates above to register and receive your unique Zoom link. Please note that each virtual meeting will be capped at 400 participants to help provide a meaningful experience for all. Language interpretation will be available. Learn about FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review. Sign up for the School Boundary Review newsletter for updates.

Recognize Our Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

The FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. We invite you to submit your story, so we can all acknowledge the good work of FCPS employees, specifically at Coates.

Mark Your Calendar

28th- End of 2nd Quarter

29th- Lunar New Year/Teacher Workday- No School for Students

30th- Winter Chorus Concert 6-7pm

3rd-7th- National School Counselor's Week

5th- Crossing Guard Appreciation Day

7th- Spelling Bee- 6-8:30pm

10th-14th- Kindness Spirit Week

12th- 100th Day of School

14th- Valentine's Day

17th- President's Day- No School

19th- PTA Meeting- 6-7pm & Math & Family Dinner Night- 7-8pm

24th- 3 hour Early Release Monday @ 1pm

28th- Ramadan begins at sundown

 

*The full FCPS 2024-2025 calendar can be accessed here.

2480 River Birch Road, Herndon, VA 20171  |  Main Phone: 703.713.3000 
Report Absence Online  |  Attendance Phone: 703.713.3030
Web | Facebook | Twitter

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

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Shining Star Shoutouts

Congrats to our Shining Star Shoutout students for this past week.  The students recognized for demonstrating what it means to be a Shining Star this week are:

Kindergarten:

Serena Whitlow (Responsible)

1st Grade:

Santiago Martinez (Respectful)

2nd Grade:

TJ Thomas (Ready to Shine)

Subhan Hemat (Ready to Shine & Respectful)

Alisson Abrego Otero (Ready to Shine)

Alizzon Medrano (Respectful)

Zamir Lacey (Responsible)

Jonatan Cruz Chicas (Ready to Shine)

3rd Grade:

Ester Escobar (Ready to Shine)

4th Grade:

Sergio Rios Castellon (Ready to Shine)

Khloe Menjivar Cerros (Responsible)

Jason Sarmiento (Ready to Shine)

Zala Shiwani (Ready to Shine)

Casey Bonilla (Responsible)

Nayeli Lee (Responsible)

Asser Taher (Ready to Shine)

Mason Park (Responsible)

Mohammed Nemari (Responsible)

Anderson Alvarado Santos (Ready to Shine)

5th Grade:

Caleb Labena (Responsible)

Anish Adhira (Responsible)

6th Grade:

Sipara Girma  (Ready to Shine)

Martin Luther King Jr. Day Holiday

Schools and offices will be closed on Monday, January 20, for the Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday. See the complete school year calendar.

Coates Boundary Meeting

Join us on Tuesday, January 21st, from 6:30-7:30 PM for a Town Hall meeting about the Coates Boundary. This is an opportunity to elevate community voices and ensure your input is heard. The meeting will take place in the Coates Cafeteria. We hope to see you there!

Spelling Bee Volunteers Needed

PTA needs your help!  In order to for our beloved spelling bee to take place we need parents to volunteer to assist with the school bee. We are planning on holding the school bee in person on Friday, February 7th, 2025 beginning at 6:00pm (arrival at 5:30pm). If you are interested in volunteering please email Mrs. Gray at [email protected].

Ways to Report Student Absences

Families, please report your child’s attendance using one of the following options prior to 9:00 AM on the day of the absence. Be sure to include your child’s specific symptoms.

1. ParentVUE App:
   Submit the absence through the ParentVUE app or online at https://sisparent.fcps.edu/.

2. Email:
   Send an email to [email protected].

3. Phone:

   • Leave a voicemail at 703-713-3030.
   • Or, call 703-713-3000, then select Option 1.

Thank you for your cooperation!

Attendance Incentives at Coates

We are excited to announce new attendance incentives for our students! Each week, the primary and upper-grade classrooms with the highest attendance percentage will be recognized and rewarded. Winners will be announced on our Friday news show, and rewards might include fun perks like extra recess, popcorn parties, and more!

Attendance is key to student success. Missing school can limit learning, contribute to social anxiety, and create barriers to achievement. We appreciate your partnership in ensuring your child attends school regularly and on time. Let’s work together to help every student thrive!

Thank you for your support!

Weekly Attendance Incentive Winners

The classrooms with the highest attendance percentage this week, earning 15 extra minutes of recess today, are:

• Mrs. Grande's Kindergarten Class
• Mr. Feeley's 2nd Grade Class
• Ms. Balangyao's 3rd Grade Class
• Mrs. Myers' 5th Grade Class

Congratulations! 🎉

🧥 Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

Winter weather is here! As a reminder, please make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy time outdoors. Schools monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories that may prevent children from being outside for activities like recess or physical education.

View Fairfax County’s Winter Weather/Extreme Cold safety tips. 

If you need assistance getting cold-weather clothing for your family, please contact our family liaison, Solangie McPherson, at [email protected]. You may also contact Fairfax County Coordinated Services Planning (CSP) at 703-222-0880. Their multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health care.

Recognize Our Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

The FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. We invite you to submit your story, so we can all acknowledge the good work of FCPS employees, specifically at Coates.

Mark Your Calendar

20th- No School- Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s Birthday & Inauguration Day

21st-24th- Classroom Spelling Bees

28th- End of 2nd Quarter

29th- Lunar New Year/Teacher Workday- No School for Students

30th- Winter Chorus Concert 6-7pm

3rd-7th- National School Counselor's Week

5th- Crossing Guard Appreciation Day

7th- Spelling Bee- 6-8:30pm

10th-14th- Kindness Spirit Week

12th- 100th Day of School

14th- Valentine's Day

17th- President's Day- No School

19th- PTA Meeting- 6-7pm & Math & Family Dinner Night- 7-8pm

24th- 3 hour Early Release Monday @ 1pm

28th- Ramadan begins at sundown

 

*The full FCPS 2024-2025 calendar can be accessed here.

2480 River Birch Road, Herndon, VA 20171  |  Main Phone: 703.713.3000 
Report Absence Online  |  Attendance Phone: 703.713.3030
Web | Facebook | Twitter

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

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Set Your Child Up for Success Each Day!

A great day at school starts at home! Here are some tips to help your child be ready to learn and thrive:

1. Establish a Consistent Routine: Ensure your child goes to bed early and wakes up on time to avoid rushing in the morning. Consistency helps them feel prepared for the day ahead.

2. Prepare the Night Before: Pack backpacks, check homework, and lay out clothes to streamline your morning.

3. Fuel Their Body and Mind: A nutritious breakfast gives your child the energy to focus and learn throughout the day.

4. Encourage a Positive Mindset: Talk with your child about their day and encourage them to try their best and have a growth mindset.

5. Stay Connected: Review school notes or communication from teachers to stay informed and engaged in their learning.

Your support at home makes a big difference in your child’s success at school! Thank you for partnering with us to help your child shine. 🌟

PTA Meeting & New Family Orientation

Join us on Wednesday, January 15th in the Coates Library for two important events:

• PTA Meeting: 6:00–6:30 PM
• New Family Orientation: 6:30–7:30 PM

This is a great opportunity to stay connected, learn more about our school community, and welcome new families to Coates. We hope to see you there!

Coates Boundary Meeting

Join us on Tuesday, January 21st, from 6:30-7:30 PM for a Town Hall meeting about the Coates Boundary. This is an opportunity to elevate community voices and ensure your input is heard. The meeting will take place in the Coates Cafeteria. We hope to see you there!

Spelling Bee Volunteers Needed

PTA needs your help!  In order to for our beloved spelling bee to take place we need parents to volunteer to assist with the school bee. We are planning on holding the school bee in person on Friday, February 7th, 2025 beginning at 6:00pm (arrival at 5:30pm). If you are interested in volunteering please email Mrs. Gray at [email protected].

Coates Academy Opportunities 📵 Phones Down, Engagement Up: FCPS Cell Phone Policy

Keeping cell phones off during the school day helps students focus and learn. It also boosts positive social behavior. Review FCPS’ cell phone expectations by grade level with your child and help keep our classrooms free of distractions! If you need to reach your child during the school day, please call our 703-713-3000. 

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes; on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring; essay editing; and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

🗺️ Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration

Registration for the countywide lottery for FCPS’ Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program will open on Monday, January 13, 2025. Current pre-K students may apply for the kindergarten immersion program, and current kindergarten students may apply for the first grade immersion program for the 2024-25 school year. 

Dual Language Immersion is available in French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. 

Parents/caregivers who are interested may want to attend an informational meeting held at the school site. Visit the Dual Language Immersion Program Registration page for a list of meetings by language offered. 

Get more information on the DLI Program webpage and the DLI Program Registration webpage.

📍 Comprehensive Boundary Review Update

The Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee held its second meeting on December 16 at Gatehouse Administration Center. View key takeaways from that meeting and access the meeting agenda, slides, and other materials that committee members received.  If you did not get a chance to attend an in-person Community Boundary Review Meeting, please consider participating in one of the following virtual meetings:

• Friday, January 10, 2025, 6-7:30 p.m. 

• Thursday, January 16, 2025, 1-2:30 p.m. 

• Saturday, January 25, 2025, 9:30-11 a.m. 

• Monday, January 27, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

• Tuesday, January 28, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

• Monday, February 10, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

. 

Language interpretation will be available. 

All virtual meetings will follow the same format as the in-person meetings that were recently held, and the same information will be shared. Please stay tuned for details on how to register. Visit FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage to learn more. Sign up for FCPS’ School Boundary Review newsletter as well.

Recognize Our Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

The FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. We invite you to submit your story, so we can all acknowledge the good work of FCPS employees, specifically at Coates.

Mark Your Calendar

15th- PTA Meeting 6-6:30pm & New Family Orientation 6:30-7:30pm

20th- No School- Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s Birthday & Inauguration Day

21st-24th- Classroom Spelling Bees

28th- End of 2nd Quarter

29th- Lunar New Year/Teacher Workday- No School for Students

30th- Winter Chorus Concert 6-7pm

*The full FCPS 2024-2025 calendar can be accessed here.

2480 River Birch Road, Herndon, VA 20171  |  Main Phone: 703.713.3000 
Report Absence Online  |  Attendance Phone: 703.713.3030
Web | Facebook | Twitter

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

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Shining Star Shoutouts

Congrats to our Shining Star Shoutout students for this past week.  The students recognized for demonstrating what it means to be a Shining Star this week are:

1st Grade:

Selina Talgat (Respectful)

Ben Cabe (Respectful)

Mahalakshmi Inakollu (Ready to Shine)

Bahar Sarway (Respectful)

Zubaida Fathima (Responsible)

Declan Knear (Responsible)

Valery Morales Silva (Respectful)

Tiana Raina (Ready to Shine)

David Hernandez (Ready to Shine)

Hassan Khanu (Ready to Shine)

Aria Mosley (Respectful)

2nd Grade:

Ghaida Alsubaiy (Responsible)

Hanan Mihretie (Responsible)

Benoit Kamnang Nkwetchou (Responsible)

Nihitha Penmetsa (Respectful)

Matias Olais Amolitos (Responsible)

3rd Grade:

Clari Perez (Respectful)

Jorge Funez Munoz (Respectful)

Noah Dallas (Responsible)

Mason Hammond (Responsible)

4th Grade:

Kira Naylor (Responsible)

Iker Serrano Ayala (Responsible)

Kayden Tweed (Respectful)

Mariam Soltan (Respectful)

David Hernandez Lopez (Respectful)

Liana Keys (Respectful)

5th Grade:

Harper Johnson (Ready to Shine)

Scarlett Vera (Responsible)

Juan Aguilar Sanchez (Ready to Shine)

Saharsh Maram (Responsible)

Yasmene Temame (Responsible)

Willian Hernandez (Responsible)

Juan Artiga Alvarez (Responsible)

Kelcey Pham (Responsible)

Eleazar Cardoza (Responsible)

6th Grade:

Avneesh Mittal (Responsible)

As a reminder, winter break will be held Monday, December 23, to Friday, January 3. To help make sure you and your children have a restful break, we have asked that no homework be assigned during this time. Teachers may assign long-range assignments in the weeks ahead of the break, allowing students to practice time management skills, but no assignments will be due immediately following the break. We look forward to welcoming students back in the new year. Classes resume on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. See the complete school year calendar.

Winter Break Office Hours

The Coates Elementary Office will be closed for winter break from Monday, December 23 through Friday, January 3rd, 2025.

Have a safe and happy break.  We look forward to our students returning on Monday, January 6th.

🎄 A very Merry Christmas to those in our community who celebrate! Christmas is an annual holiday that commemorates the birth of Jesus of Nazareth, the person who stands at the heart of the Christian tradition. It is celebrated in many unique ways across the U.S. and the world, most commonly by the joyous giving of gifts. Learn more about Christmas. 

Chanukah, an 8-day Festival of Lights, is a Jewish holiday commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple and the miracle of a small quantity of oil that lit the Temple’s menorah for 8 days. This year, Chanukah begins at sundown on Wednesday, December 25. See the complete school year calendar.

🎉 Happy New Year! We look forward to seeing students and staff on Monday, January 6, 2025, when all FCPS schools and offices will reopen.

See the complete school year calendar.

Coates Family Academy Winter Sessions ❄️ Be Among the First to Hear About School Delays/Closings

Watch this video to see how FCPS makes weather closing decisions. 

FCPS’ website is generally the first place to find out about emergency weather closings. Other communication channels will be used as quickly as possible, including email, text, social media, and news stations. Learn more about how schedule changes are communicated.

Be among the first to hear about weather delays and closings! Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE. Emails and text messages are sent to parents and caregivers based on the addresses and cell phone numbers entered on this platform. 

🗺️ Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration

Registration for the countywide lottery for FCPS’ Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program will open on Monday, January 13, 2025. Current pre-K students may apply for the kindergarten immersion program, and current kindergarten students may apply for the first grade immersion program for the 2024-25 school year. 

Dual Language Immersion is available in French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. 

Parents/caregivers who are interested may want to attend an informational meeting held at the school site. Visit the Dual Language Immersion Program Registration page for a list of meetings by language offered. 

Get more information on the DLI Program webpage and the DLI Program Registration webpage.

🖥️ Free Webinars and Events for Families

In January, the Family Resource Center (FRC) will host webinars for families on:

• Overcoming School Refusal and Resistance
• Virtual Meeting for Siblings of Children with Special Needs
• FCPS Math Week
• Supporting Your Child’s Executive Functioning Skills
• Depression in Teens
• Understanding Trauma in Your Child/Comprendiedo el Trauma en su Hijo (presented in Spanish)

Sign up for the FRC newsletter or visit their webinar webpage.

Upcoming Family Academy Events

You are an important part of your child's education! The FCPS Family Academy compiles classes, webinars, workshops, and programs offered by FCPS to help you support your child's needs and learning at home. Browse Family Academy offerings.

📍 Comprehensive Boundary Review Update

The Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee held its second meeting on December 16 at Gatehouse Administration Center. View key takeaways from that meeting and access the meeting agenda, slides, and other materials that committee members received.  If you did not get a chance to attend an in-person Community Boundary Review Meeting, please consider participating in one of the following virtual meetings:

• Friday, January 10, 2025, 6-7:30 p.m. 

• Thursday, January 16, 2025, 1-2:30 p.m. 

• Saturday, January 25, 2025, 9:30-11 a.m. 

• Monday, January 27, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

• Tuesday, January 28, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

• Monday, February 10, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

. 

Language interpretation will be available. 

All virtual meetings will follow the same format as the in-person meetings that were recently held, and the same information will be shared. Please stay tuned for details on how to register. Visit FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage to learn more. Sign up for FCPS’ School Boundary Review newsletter as well.

Recognize Our Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

The FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. We invite you to submit your story, so we can all acknowledge the good work of FCPS employees, specifically at Coates.

Mark Your Calendar

23rd-Jan. 3rd- Winter Break- No School

1st-3rd- Winter Break- No School

6th- Three Kings Day (Religious Observation)

7th- Orthodox Christmas (Religious Observation)

8th- PTA Meeting 6-6:30pm & New Family Orientation 6:30-7:30pm

20th- No School- Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s Birthday & Inauguration Day

28th- End of 2nd Quarter

29th- Lunar New Year/Teacher Workday- No School for Students

30th- Winter Chorus Concert 6-7pm

*The full FCPS 2024-2025 calendar can be accessed here.

2480 River Birch Road, Herndon, VA 20171  |  Main Phone: 703.713.3000 
Report Absence Online  |  Attendance Phone: 703.713.3030
Web | Facebook | Twitter

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

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Shining Star Shoutouts

Congrats to our Shining Star Shoutout students for this past week.  The students recognized for demonstrating what it means to be a Shining Star this week are:

Kindergarten:

Jordan Hicks (Respectful)

1st Grade:

Arth Agrawal (Responsible)

2nd Grade:

Nethra Srikiran (Responsible)

Dawit Kebede (Responsible)

3rd Grade:

Alexa Olayo-Morales (Respectful & Responsible)

Anaya Orantes (Responsible)

Mayassa Ahmed (Ready to Shine)

Felix Cash (Respectful)

Solomon Kiberu-Mubanga (Responsible)

Oliver Abad (Responsible)

6th Grade:

Angelique Gomez Maldonado (Responsible)

Skyla Mosley (Responsible)

Keyon Birgans (Ready to Shine)

Blake Ayivor (Ready to Shine)

Window for Full-Time AAP Referrals Closes on December 15, 2024

Parents/guardians of students in Grades 2-7 who would like their student to be considered for Full-Time advanced academic programs may submit the AAP Full-Time Referral Form to Laura Hunter at [email protected] no later than December 15, 2024. 

The window for families to submit a referral for Full-Time AAP services is the first day of school through December 15, annually.  Forms for Full-Time and part-time referrals are available on the AAP Forms Page. No late referrals for Full-Time AAP services will be accepted. 

Submitting a referral form for Full-Time AAP will initiate a process that begins at the local school and is then completed at the central office level. Our school will put together a portfolio that includes multiple data which are considered holistically. At the central office level, a committee of six trained professionals from various schools and roles will review the portfolio materials to determine eligibility for Full-Time placement.  Eligibility decisions are communicated by early April. Parents may request a copy of the portfolio that was submitted after they have been turned in for central selection by emailing [email protected]

Referrals for Subject-Specific and Part-Time AAP are screened at the local school. If you miss this deadline, your student can still be screened for Subject-Specific AAP or Part-Time AAP for the remainder of the year and submit a referral for Full-Time AAP next fall. 

For more information, please visit the Advanced Academic Programs website.

Winter Special Education and 504 Newsletter

The latest issue of the FCPS Special Education and 504 Newsletter is available online. Topics in this issue include:

• Community Resources for Families of Students with Disabilities
• Save the Date: 2025 Family Summit
• SEL Screener Results
• New Accessibility Resources
• Adapted Physical Education and Recreation Program
• Why Some Students with Disabilities Stay in FCPS Until Age 22
• VR Programs Supports Out-of-State Post Secondary Schools
• Executive Functioning Webinars
• Early Literacy Resources
• ESY and Assessment Webinar
• COVID-19 Compensatory Education: FCPS Service Delivery Options

Subscribe to the Special Education and 504 Newsletter.

Winter Resources

⛄Student and Family Resources

Fairfax County Public Schools has compiled a list of resources for students and families in case they need assistance while schools are closed for winter break. Please visit FCPS’ winter resources webpage for information on academic support, mental health support, and county resources related to food, clothing, housing, and other needs.

School’s Closed, Learning Can Continue! 

FCPS encourages students to take advantage of fun learning opportunities during winter break and snow days. Consider these winter activities to blend education and play for your students during winter break or weather-related school closures. 

Recognize Our Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

The FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. We invite you to submit your story, so we can all acknowledge the good work of FCPS employees, specifically at Coates.

Mark Your Calendar

15th- AAP Referral Deadline

18th- Winter Chorus Concert 6-7pm

23rd-Jan. 3rd- Winter Break- No School

*The full FCPS 2024-2025 calendar can be accessed here.

2480 River Birch Road, Herndon, VA 20171  |  Main Phone: 703.713.3000 
Report Absence Online  |  Attendance Phone: 703.713.3030
Web | Facebook | Twitter

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

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Shining Star Shoutouts

Congrats to our Shining Star Shoutout students for this past week.  The students recognized for demonstrating what it means to be a Shining Star this week are:

3rd Grade:

Mila Tejeda (Respectful)

Yolanda Cruz Martinez (Respectful)

Imani da Silva (Respectful)

Carl Mbus Mbock (Responsible)

Ezana Somano (Responsible)

Bodhi Day- December 8th

Bodhi Day, Sunday, December 8, is the Buddhist holiday that commemorates the day that the historical Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama (Shakyamuni), experienced enlightenment, also known as bodhi in Sanskrit and Pali. 

Picture Ordering

Need to order pictures? ? Our NEW Code Lookup Tool is now available. Simply scan the QR code and follow the directions to access your child's picture ordering gallery. No need to contact Customer Service for an access code! *Student last name and Student ID number will be required for data security.*

Window for Full-Time AAP Referrals Closes on December 15, 2024

Parents/guardians of students in Grades 2-7 who would like their student to be considered for Full-Time advanced academic programs may submit the AAP Full-Time Referral Form to Laura Hunter at [email protected] no later than December 15, 2024. 

The window for families to submit a referral for Full-Time AAP services is the first day of school through December 15, annually.  Forms for Full-Time and part-time referrals are available on the AAP Forms Page. No late referrals for Full-Time AAP services will be accepted. 

Submitting a referral form for Full-Time AAP will initiate a process that begins at the local school and is then completed at the central office level. Our school will put together a portfolio that includes multiple data which are considered holistically. At the central office level, a committee of six trained professionals from various schools and roles will review the portfolio materials to determine eligibility for Full-Time placement.  Eligibility decisions are communicated by early April. Parents may request a copy of the portfolio that was submitted after they have been turned in for central selection by emailing [email protected]

Referrals for Subject-Specific and Part-Time AAP are screened at the local school. If you miss this deadline, your student can still be screened for Subject-Specific AAP or Part-Time AAP for the remainder of the year and submit a referral for Full-Time AAP next fall. 

For more information, please visit the Advanced Academic Programs website.

🍲 Food Assistance and Resource Guide

Food insecurity impacts more than 96,000 Fairfax County residents. There are many resources available to support those who need food assistance. Learn how to help these families and the many resources available to support those who need food assistance on Fairfax County’s website or view the county’s Human Services Resource Guide.

📚 Bundle Up With Books Over Break

Fairfax County Public Library’s (FCPL) winter reading adventure has begun and will continue through Friday, January 31, 2025. Visit your local FCPL library branch or visit their website to register and get a sneak peek at the prizes being offered.

Check out their Winter Reading Events webpage to learn about laser tag, movie nights, crafting sessions, Noon-Year Eve celebrations, and book discussions.

⛄ Get Outdoors for Winter Fun!

The Fairfax County Park Authority has rounded up its seasonal fun into a handy list of events happening across the county. 

Learn more about the Winter Wonderland and the Holiday Train at Burke Lake Park, Holiday on the Farm at Frying Pan Farm Park, and many more fun events.

Recognize Our Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

The FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. We invite you to submit your story, so we can all acknowledge the good work of FCPS employees, specifically at Coates.

Mark Your Calendar

9th- 3 Hour Early Release at 1pm

15th- AAP Referral Deadline

18th- Winter Chorus Concert 6-7pm

23rd-Jan. 3rd- Winter Break- No School

*The full FCPS 2024-2025 calendar can be accessed here.

2480 River Birch Road, Herndon, VA 20171  |  Main Phone: 703.713.3000 
Report Absence Online  |  Attendance Phone: 703.713.3030
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Thanksgiving Break

Schools and offices will be closed November 27-29. Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving! Classes will resume on Monday, December 2. Learn more about the first Thanksgiving. See the complete school year calendar.

Order Coates Spirit Wear Now!

The Coates ES Spirit Wear Store is open! Families can purchase shirts, hoodies, and sweatpants—perfect for the colder season and holiday gifting. The store will close on December 3, 2024, with delivery and distribution on December 17, 2024.

Shop now using this link: Coates Spirit Wear Store. Don’t miss out!

Boundary Review Community Meeting

Community meetings regarding FCPS’ comprehensive boundary review will take place in each of the division's six regions. You are encouraged to attend the meeting in our region, which will take place on Monday, December 2, 6:30-8 p.m. in the Westfield High School Cafeteria.

In addition to the Division Boundary Study, FCPS Leadership will be conducting a separate community meeting to discuss the specific boundary review that was passed for Coates Elementary last January.  This review will be happening alongside, but separate from, the Division Boundary Study and we really need to see our Coates Community come out to listen, share feedback, and ask questions.  Please mark your calendars for either the Virtual meeting on 1/16 or the in-person meeting on 1/21.

• Thursday, January 16, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

         Virtual via Zoom - registration required (link coming soon). 

• Tuesday, January 21, 6:30-7:30 pm. In person at Coates Elementary School - Cafeteria, Door 1. 

Language interpretation services will be available at both meetings. 

Early Release Monday December 9th, 2024

December 9th is an Early Release Monday. Dismissal at 1:00PM

Your child will follow the same dismissal procedure (staying or leaving early) as you indicated for the first early release dates, with the exception of those students attending SACC which is open at dismissal time.

In order to ensure student safety, please do not make any last minute changes to your child's dismissal plan.

SEL Screener Results

One of the ways FCPS supports the mental wellness of all students is through the Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener. In October, students in grades 3-12 took this screener, which gives information about their skills such as achieving goals, handling emotions, building relationships with adults and peers, and making good choices. 

The screener also helps students evaluate their school community’s efforts to make them feel valued, included, and supported. Screener data is used to create learning, experiences, and environments for students to succeed.

In early December, families will be able to view student SEL Screener results in SIS ParentVUE. For families who do not have an active ParentVUE account, results will be sent by mail.

Learn more about the screener on the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage. For help understanding your child’s results or ideas to support them at home, review the Family Guide or contact us. 

Register for ParentVUELearn how to activate your ParentVUE account, so you can easily access your child’s results and other helpful information.

❄️ Preparing for Winter Weather

Winter weather will be here before you know it! Watch this video to see how weather-related closing decisions are made.

FCPS’ website is generally the first place to find out about emergency weather closings. Other communication channels will be used as quickly as possible including email, text, social media, and news stations. Learn more about how schedule changes are communicated. 

Be sure to plan for the winter season. Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE, bookmark the FCPS website, and arrange for childcare if needed.

Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

We will monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories which may prevent children from being outside. Make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy their time outdoors. See the National Weather Service’s tips on staying safe during cold weather.

If you need assistance supplying your child with cold-weather clothing, please call Fairfax County's Coordinated Services Planning at 703-222-0880. Their multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health care.

Recognize Our Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

The FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. We invite you to submit your story, so we can all acknowledge the good work of FCPS employees, specifically at Coates.

Mark Your Calendar

27th-29th- Thanksgiving Holiday Break- No School

9th- 3 Hour Early Release at 1pm

15th- AAP Referral Deadline

18th- Winter Chorus Concert 6-7pm

23rd-Jan. 3rd- Winter Break- No School

*The full FCPS 2024-2025 calendar can be accessed here.

2480 River Birch Road, Herndon, VA 20171  |  Main Phone: 703.713.3000 
Report Absence Online  |  Attendance Phone: 703.713.3030
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Shining Star Shoutouts

Congrats to our Shining Star Shoutout students for this past week.  The students recognized for demonstrating what it means to be a Shining Star this week are:

1st Grade:

Hose Tigistu (Ready to Shine)

Mahalakshmi Inakollu (Respectful)

Abichu Mitiku (Ready to Shine)

3rd Grade:

Abhisheka Saravanan (Respectful)

Soliana Gashaw (Respectful)

Mason Hammond (Ready to Shine)

Dylan Vilchez Leal (Ready to Shine)

4th Grade:

Kelly Chen (Ready to Shine)

Dina Mohammed (Ready to Shine)

Join Us for Bingo Night! Boundary Review Community Meeting

Community meetings regarding FCPS’ comprehensive boundary review will take place in each of the division's six regions. You are encouraged to attend the meeting in our region, which will take place on Monday, December 2, 6:30-8 p.m. in the Westfield High School Cafeteria.

In addition to the Division Boundary Study, FCPS Leadership will be conducting a separate community meeting to discuss the specific boundary review that was passed for Coates Elementary last January.  This review will be happening alongside, but separate from, the Division Boundary Study and we really need to see our Coates Community come out to listen, share feedback, and ask questions.  Please mark your calendars for either the Virtual meeting on 1/16 or the in-person meeting on 1/21.

• Thursday, January 16, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

         Virtual via Zoom - registration required (link coming soon). 

• Tuesday, January 21, 6:30-7:30 pm. In person at Coates Elementary School - Cafeteria, Door 1. 

Language interpretation services will be available at both meetings. 

For American Education Week we celebrate ALL who work in our Coates community: our bus drivers, cafeteria workers, counselors, support staff, teachers, leadership and more! Learn more from the National Education Association. Want to recognize someone from our school who goes above and beyond? Submit a nomination to FCPS Cares.

Full-Time AAP Referral Reminder

Parents/guardians of students in Grades 2-7 who would like their student to be considered for full-time advanced academic programs may submit the AAP Full-Time Referral Form and supplemental materials to Mrs. Hunter at [email protected] no later than December 15, 2024 (note this is a Sunday).

The window for families to submit a referral for full-time AAP services is the first day of school through December 15, annually. All forms may be found on the AAP forms page. No late referrals for Full-Time AAP services will be accepted.

Submitting a referral form for full-time AAP will initiate a process that begins at the local school and is then completed at the central office level. Our school will put together a portfolio that includes multiple data which are considered holistically. At the central office level, a committee of six trained professionals from various schools and roles will review the portfolio materials to determine eligibility for full-time placement. Eligibility decisions are communicated by early April. 

For more information, please visit the  Advanced Academic Programs website.  Feel free to reach out to Mrs. Hunter with any questions at [email protected]

Early Release Monday December 9th, 2024

December 9th is an Early Release Monday. Dismissal at 1:00PM

Your child will follow the same dismissal procedure (staying or leaving early) as you indicated for the first early release dates, with the exception of those students attending SACC which is open at dismissal time.

In order to ensure student safety, please do not make any last minute changes to your child's dismissal plan.

Recognize Our Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

The FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. We invite you to submit your story, so we can all acknowledge the good work of FCPS employees, specifically at Coates.

Mark Your Calendar

21st- Thanksgiving Luncheon with Families

22nd- Fall Picture Retakes & Family Bingo Night 6:30-8pm (Cafeteria)

27th-29th- Thanksgiving Holiday Break- No School

9th- 3 Hour Early Release at 1pm

15th- AAP Referral Deadline

18th- Winter Chorus Concert 6-7pm

23rd-Jan. 3rd- Winter Break- No School

*The full FCPS 2024-2025 calendar can be accessed here.

2480 River Birch Road, Herndon, VA 20171  |  Main Phone: 703.713.3000 
Report Absence Online  |  Attendance Phone: 703.713.3030
Web | Facebook | Twitter

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

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Shining Star Shoutouts

Congrats to our Shining Star Shoutout students for this past week.  The students recognized for demonstrating what it means to be a Shining Star this week are:

1st Grade:

Amarah Middleton (Respectful)

3rd Grade:

Elena Paradzhanian (Respectful)

Felix Cash (Respectful)

Nathan Park (Respectful)

5th Grade:

Fredis Alvarenga Cerros (Ready to Shine)

Veterans Day

Monday, November 11, is a holiday and schools will be closed for students.

Coates thanks the veterans in our community for their service today and every day!

Thank You Ms. Sessou!

Next week, November 11th-15th, we celebrate the invaluable work that school psychologists do to help all students thrive. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Ms. Sessou for her dedication and support to our school community. We are fortunate to have her as part of our Coates family!

Learn more from the National Association of School Psychologists. 

Lost & Found

We have a lot of items in our lost and found in the lobby.  Please check some of the photos above for anything your child may be missing.  At the end of the month, we will be donating all lost and found items to charity.

Parents, please label all clothing, lunch boxes, and water bottles so lost items can be quickly identified and returned to the owner.  Articles found in classrooms are temporarily held by the teacher until identified by the child.  After a reasonable time, these articles are placed in the "lost and found area" in the cafeteria.  Parents are encouraged to come to school to check for lost items.

📍 Boundary Review Community Meetings Start This Month

As a reminder, FCPS has started the process of reviewing school boundaries across the division. This important work will help the district better support student population growth, changes in school capacity, and evolving community needs. Community input is vital to this process. With that in mind, FCPS, in partnership with Thru Consulting, will be hosting a series of community meetings in each of FCPS’ six regions. Participants are encouraged to share their thoughts, ask questions, and learn more about the boundary review process.

Please visit FCPS’ website for meeting dates, locations, and other information. Sign up for the School Boundary Review newsletter for updates.

IEP Palooza

Parents/caregivers, school staff, and students over the age of 14 are invited to attend an interactive event celebrating the individualized education program (IEP) process. The IEP Palooza and Community Resource Fair will take place on Saturday, November 16, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m., at Jackson Middle School. 

The event is sponsored by Fairfax County Special Education Parent Teacher Association (SEPTA). Activities include simulated IEP meetings, break-out sessions on the various parts of an IEP, and a resource fair to learn more about community supports. Register in advance.

Tutoring Resources for Families

Is your family looking for resources to help support your child’s academic success? FCPS’ Family Resource Center (FRC) maintains a list of district employees who hold a valid Virginia teaching credential and who are available to be hired as a tutor by parents. FRC maintains this list, but families are responsible for contacting and working directly with tutors. This list is not “approved” by FCPS and is only meant as a resource.

FCPS also partners with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors' services at no cost, including weekly live online classes, on demand 24/7 chat tutoring, essay editing, study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests.

✨ FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan Goal 3: Academic Growth and Excellence, reminds us of our commitment to supporting each and every student and helping them meet or exceed high academic standards.

Recognize Our Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

The FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. We invite you to submit your story, so we can all acknowledge the good work of FCPS employees, specifically at Coates.

Mark Your Calendar

11th- Veterans Day- No School

13th- FLE Parent Preview @ 5:30-6pm & PTA Meeting @ 6-7pm (Library)

21st- Thanksgiving Luncheon with Families

22nd- Fall Picture Retakes & Family Bingo Night 6:30-8pm (Cafeteria)

27th-29th- Thanksgiving Holiday Break- No School

15th- AAP Referral Deadline

18th- Winter Chorus Concert 6-7pm

23rd-Jan. 3rd- Winter Break- No School

*The full FCPS 2024-2025 calendar can be accessed here.

2480 River Birch Road, Herndon, VA 20171  |  Main Phone: 703.713.3000 
Report Absence Online  |  Attendance Phone: 703.713.3030
Web | Facebook | Twitter