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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:

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
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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:

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.

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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:

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
Web | Facebook | Twitter

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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
Web | Facebook | Twitter

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

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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

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Nov. 1st- Diwali, All Saints Day & Dia de los Muertos

Diwali (Friday, Nov. 1):🪔 We wish a fun Diwali to all celebrating! Diwali is a festival of lights and one of the major festivals celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs & some Buddhists. The festival represents the symbolic victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.

 

All Saints Day and Día de los Muertos (Friday, Nov. 1):This week we recognize those in our community observing All Saints Day and Día de los Muertos. For Catholics, All Saints Day (November 1) celebrates all those who are with God in Heaven, known and unknown. All Souls Day (November 2), known in Mexico and Latin America as Día de los Muertos, is a day of remembrance and prayer for all those who have died, especially for the souls who may be in purgatory. These special days are celebrated by Catholics, Anglicans, and some Protestants throughout the world.

Daylight Saving Time Ends (Fall Back)

This Sunday, November 3, at 2 a.m., daylight saving time ends. Don’t forget to move your clocks back one hour! 

School Planning & Election Day- No School

Just a reminder that there is no school on Monday, Nov. 4th & Tuesday, Nov. 5th due to school planning & teacher work days.

Don’t forget to get out and vote on Tuesday, Nov. 5! The day will be observed as a holiday for students and a teacher work day. For more information, visit the Virginia Department of Elections webpage. See the complete school year calendar.

🎉Birthday Treat Policy Update

Starting second quarter, on students’ birthdays, they will get to choose from a menu of special “events” for their class. Our menu options are below. This will allow for ALL children to have special birthday celebrations and there will be no worries about food allergies, too much sugar, etc.. Thank you for supporting this new idea by helping your child decide which option they will choose. Please do not send in food or toys for your child’s birthday. Thank you!

• Stuffed Animal Day- all students are encouraged to bring a stuffed animal
• Pajama Day- everyone has the option to wear their PJ’s
• Extra Recess- class gets a few minutes of extra recess time
• Favorite Story Day- birthday child gets to choose the read aloud book for the class

Additional non-food options may be communicated by individual teachers

Lost & Found

Our lost and found has grown! On November 4th and 5th, items will be displayed on tables in the lobby for parents to check as you come in for conferences or to vote. Please take a moment to look for any belongings your child may have misplaced. All unclaimed items will be donated over fall break.

Elementary School Language Arts Grading Updates

Our teachers have been hard at work teaching with the new Language Arts curriculum, and we are excited to help all of our students become strong readers and writers! This year we also have new assessments, which is how we check if your student needs extra help with reading and writing, and new Standards of Learning (SOLs).

Because of these changes, we are now teaching all of the Language Arts skills your child needs to know (and checking if they need extra help) throughout the whole school year, instead of different skills each quarter. While these skills will be new to your child in the beginning of the year, the goal is for your child to grow strong in all of their new skills by the end of the year.

This means that when you get your child’s progress report next month, it might look different. Your child’s teacher will give you more information on the new progress reporting and how we’re making sure your child is getting any extra help they might need. You can also find more information on FCPS’ Grading and Reporting webpage.

We will also have new ways for you to help your child practice their reading and writing skills at home. These resources are coming soon!

Return Your Federal Impact Aid Survey

FCPS is asking all families to fill out a Federal Impact Aid Survey. The form is available in SIS ParentVUE under Online Packets (in the upper right corner after logging in). Please complete it as soon as possible.

For any families who have not completed the survey in ParentVUE, schools will provide paper forms starting Wednesday, November 13. Paper forms should be returned by Wednesday, December 4.

Completing this form for each school-aged child in every household is important. Information from this survey resulted in more than $4 million in funding last year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

For more information, please watch this video on Impact Aid and visit the Federal Impact Aid Survey page.

Need to Register for ParentVUE? 

Learn how to activate your SIS ParentVUE account, so you can easily submit your survey. 

Technical support for using ParentVUE or completing the survey online is available by submitting a Parent Support Request ticket. Select SISParent in the Application dropdown menu and type Federal Impact Aid Survey under Issue Description. Or, call the Parent Technology Help Desk at 833-921-3277 (833-921-FCPS).

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

1st- Diwali Holiday- No School

3rd- Daylight Saving Time Ends

4th- Student Holiday- Teacher Workday- No School

5th- Student Holiday- Election Day/Teacher Workday- No School

11th- Veterans Day- No School

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

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

27th-29th- Thanksgiving Holidays- 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:

Athena Workman (Ready to Shine)

2nd Grade:

Ghaida Alsubaiy (Responsible)

3rd Grade:

Alexa Nataren Franco (Responsible)

Bhargav Krishnan (Ready to Shine)

End of Quarter 1 & Student Holidays

Thursday, October 31, is the last day of the first quarter, and a two-hour early release for students. Friday, November 1, is a holiday this year for Diwali and Dia de los Muertos and All Saints Day. All schools and offices will be closed. Schools are closed for students on Monday, November 4, for a school planning day, and Tuesday, November 5, for a teacher workday. See the complete school year calendar.

Order Your Child's School Pictures Today! Elementary School Language Arts Grading Updates

Our teachers have been hard at work teaching with the new Language Arts curriculum, and we are excited to help all of our students become strong readers and writers! This year we also have new assessments, which is how we check if your student needs extra help with reading and writing, and new Standards of Learning (SOLs).

Because of these changes, we are now teaching all of the Language Arts skills your child needs to know (and checking if they need extra help) throughout the whole school year, instead of different skills each quarter. While these skills will be new to your child in the beginning of the year, the goal is for your child to grow strong in all of their new skills by the end of the year.

This means that when you get your child’s progress report next month, it might look different. Your child’s teacher will give you more information on the new progress reporting and how we’re making sure your child is getting any extra help they might need. You can also find more information on FCPS’ Grading and Reporting webpage.

We will also have new ways for you to help your child practice their reading and writing skills at home. These resources are coming soon!

Return Your Federal Impact Aid Survey

FCPS is asking all families to fill out a Federal Impact Aid Survey. The form is available in SIS ParentVUE under Online Packets (in the upper right corner after logging in). Please complete it as soon as possible.

For any families who have not completed the survey in ParentVUE, schools will provide paper forms starting Wednesday, November 13. Paper forms should be returned by Wednesday, December 4.

Completing this form for each school-aged child in every household is important. Information from this survey resulted in more than $4 million in funding last year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

For more information, please watch this video on Impact Aid and visit the Federal Impact Aid Survey page.

Need to Register for ParentVUE? 

Learn how to activate your SIS ParentVUE account, so you can easily submit your survey. 

Technical support for using ParentVUE or completing the survey online is available by submitting a Parent Support Request ticket. Select SISParent in the Application dropdown menu and type Federal Impact Aid Survey under Issue Description. Or, call the Parent Technology Help Desk at 833-921-3277 (833-921-FCPS).

Parking at Coates 🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Register Today for a Community Conversation!

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid invites you to share your thoughts and ask questions at the final community conversation this fall. It will be held Wednesday, October 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Herndon Middle School. Click the date to register. Childcare and language interpretation services will be provided.

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- 3 Hour Early Release @ 1pm

31st- End of 1st Quarter- 2 Hour Early Release @ 2 pm

1st- Diwali Holiday- No School

3rd- Daylight Saving Time Ends

4th- Student Holiday- Teacher Workday- No School

5th- Student Holiday- Election Day/Teacher Workday- No School

11th- Veterans Day- No School

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

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

27th-29th- Thanksgiving Holidays- 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:

Absalat Adugna (Ready to Shine)

6th Grade:

Veer Sharma (Respectful)

Thank You for Your Support!

Coates ES is proud to announce that we have received a $2,500 technology grant from the Education and Charitable Foundation to support our Parent Academy. We are incredibly grateful to the members of the Lambda Kappa Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, for their generous support and commitment to our school community.

Pre-Order a Yearbook Now!

You can now pre-order your child's yearbook using this link: 2024-2025 Yearbook Pre-order. Yearbooks are $10 each, and there’s also an option to donate a yearbook to a child who may not have the opportunity to purchase one. Don’t miss out!

Outstanding Employee Awards 2024-2025

Help to honor the amazing employees at Coates!  You may nominate an employee in one or more categories listed below. All that is required for a preliminary nomination is a paragraph or two about how this employee demonstrates exceptional work in the criteria for that category. Please note that if your nominee is selected to represent Coates ES, you will be asked to complete the Nomination Packet. The google form link on each category has information regarding the criteria for each of these awards and the eligibility requirements are below. Please submit your nomination by Friday, November 8th!

• Outstanding Teacher -  Eligibility: Has at least three years of experience as a teacher (in any school/school district); librarians are included in this category
• Outstanding New Teacher- Eligibility: Within their first three years of being a teacher (in any school/school district); librarians are included in this category
• Outstanding Principal- Eligibility: Has at least three years of experience as a building principal 
• Outstanding School Based Leader -  Eligibility: At least one year of experience in their current position as a School-Based Administrator scale employee (that is not the building principal) Common positions in this category: Assistant Principals
• Outstanding School Based Professional Employee  - Eligibility: At least one year experience in current position as a non-instructional employee in a school that supports school leadership Common positions in this category: School Counselor, School-Based Technology Specialist, Technology Support Specialist, Psychologist, Social Worker, Special Education Department Chair, Resource Teachers that serve in an administrative role in a school
• Outstanding School Based Operational Employee -  Eligibility: At least one year of experience in current position. Common positions in this category: Administrative and Office Staff, Custodial Staff, Food Service Staff, IA, PHA, PHTA

If you have any questions, please contact Prasuna Saraswathula at [email protected] or Amy Marney at [email protected]

Parking at Coates

We know that parking is tight due to the size of our staff, so we want to ensure that visitors have access when needed. Here are a few important reminders:

• There are 4 designated visitor parking spaces in the front lot for parents attending appointments.
• Parents visiting between arrival and dismissal windows can also use the unmarked spaces in the large front lot, where some buses park during the day.
• During arrival and dismissal times, we ask parents to use street parking or park in the larger lot, as buses need access to the front lot to safely load and unload students.
  Thank you for your cooperation in keeping our parking safe and accessible for all!

🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Register Today for a Community Conversation!

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid is hosting a series of Community Conversations this fall. She invites you to share your thoughts and ask questions. Click on a date below to register:

• Monday, October 21, at Virginia Run Elementary School.
• Wednesday, October 30, at Herndon Middle School.

Events take place from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Childcare and language interpretation services will be provided.

Immunizations

Safeway Immunization Clinics for All FCPS Students 

Safeway Pharmacy will host immunization clinics for any FCPS student age 18 or younger at Frost Middle School on Monday, October 28, and Tuesday, October 29, from 3 to 7 p.m.

Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are highly encouraged to avoid wait times. A parent or guardian must accompany walk-in students age 18 or younger to provide consent. Learn more about immunization resources and registering in other languages for the Safeway clinic. 

Students age 19 and older may access free immunizations at their middle/high school immunization clinic, the Fairfax County Health Department or through other community resources.

Elementary School Clinics

The Fairfax County Health Department will provide immunizations for FCPS elementary students on limited early release Mondays at their district offices. All school-required immunizations will be offered at no cost. Call 703-246-7100 to make your appointment.

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- Mobile Dairy Lab Visit

26th- Fall Festival 10-2 pm

28th- 3 Hour Early Release @ 1pm

31st- End of 1st Quarter- 2 Hour Early Release @ 2 pm

1st- Diwali Holiday- No School

3rd- Daylight Saving Time Ends

4th- Student Holiday- Teacher Workday- No School

5th- Student Holiday- Election Day/Teacher Workday- No School

11th- Veterans Day- No School

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

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

27th-29th- Thanksgiving Holidays- 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 student for this past week.  The student recognized for demonstrating what it means to be a Shining Star this week are:

6th Grade:

Anabelle Avila (Responsible)

Let’s celebrate together. Our families from North/Central/South America and Spain are getting together to celebrate their roots!

Join us to learn about their food, dances, and costumes.

Friday, October 18th!

6:30 – 8:00pm

Pre-Order a Yearbook Now!

You can now pre-order your child's yearbook using this link: 2024-2025 Yearbook Pre-order. Yearbooks are $10 each, and there’s also an option to donate a yearbook to a child who may not have the opportunity to purchase one. Don’t miss out!

Our Halloween Festival is Saturday, October 19th at Westfield High School!

The carnival in the auditorium from 4-8pm will feature games, and princess and pirate meet and greets! Costumes encouraged. Baked goods will also be available for purchase. Come anytime!

The escape room (for ages 12 and up) in the Blackbox classroom will run from 4-8pm. Sign up for the escape room with the QR code on the flyer or by this LINK.

Celebrating the Power of School Lunches

Multiple studies show that school lunches are important in supporting overall student health by improving students’ diets and combating food insecurity. Students who eat school lunches consume more fruit, vegetables, and fiber than their peers. 

This School Lunch Week, FCPS Food and Nutrition Services reminds families that they are dedicated to providing flavorful, healthy, sustainable, and student-focused meals. Also, new menu items have been launched this year based on student feedback. 

Want to know what’s for breakfast or lunch? Nutrition Services now has printable menus.

Monday, October 14, is a student holiday and staff development day for Indigenous Peoples' Day. See the complete school year calendar.

National Bullying Prevention Month

October is National Bullying Prevention Month. To help develop a common understanding of Bullying, below is the FCPS definition. 

Bullying in Students Rights and Responsibilities is defined as: “Any aggressive and unwanted behavior that is intended to harm, intimidate, or humiliate the victim; involves a real or perceived power imbalance between the aggressor or aggressors and victim; and is repeated over time or causes severe emotional trauma. “Bullying” includes cyberbullying. “Bullying” does not include ordinary teasing, horseplay, argument, or peer conflict.”

For more information on how FCPS handles a bullying situation please visit the FCPS Bullying Prevention and Intervention webpage. Our goal is to ensure all students feel safe and welcome at school. If you have questions and/or concerns about something that is going on at school, please contact the front office so that they can support you and most importantly your student.  

🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Register Today for a Community Conversation!

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid will host a series of Community Conversations this fall. She invites you to share your thoughts and ask questions. Click the dates below to register for any of the following conversations:

• Monday, October 14, at Fairhill Elementary School.
• Monday, October 21, at Virginia Run Elementary School.
• Wednesday, October 30, at Herndon Middle School.

Events take place from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Childcare and language interpretation services will be provided.

Safeway Immunization Clinics for All FCPS Students

Safeway Pharmacy will be providing immunizations at Frost Middle School for all FCPS students at no cost on: 

• Saturday, October 12, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Monday, October 28, 3-7 p.m.

Transportation options are available.

Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are highly encouraged to avoid wait times. A parent or guardian must accompany walk-in students under the age of 19 to provide consent. Learn more about immunization resources and registering in other languages for the Safeway clinic.

Elementary School Clinics

The Fairfax County Health Department will provide immunizations for FCPS elementary students on limited early release Mondays at their district offices. All school-required immunizations will be offered at no cost. Call 703-246-7100 to make your appointment.

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

14th- Student Holiday- Indigenous Peoples' Day & Staff Development

18th- Hispanic Heritage Celebration @ 6:30-8pm (Coates Cafeteria)

21st- Mobile Dairy Lab Visit

26th- Fall Festival 10-2 pm

28th- 3 Hour Early Release @ 1pm

31st- End of 1st Quarter- 2 Hour Early Release

1st- Diwali Holiday- No School

3rd- Daylight Saving Time Ends

4th- Student Holiday- Teacher Workday- No School

5th- Student Holiday- Election Day/Teacher Workday- No School

11th- Veterans Day- No School

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

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

27th-29th- Thanksgiving Holidays- 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.

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National Principal's Month

October highlights the important role principals play in shaping students, teachers, and communities. Principals set the academic tone and foster a supportive learning environment in their schools. We thank Mr. Basdekis for his outstanding leadership at Coates and for making our school shine!

In Virginia during October, Disability History and Awareness activities provide an opportunity to create greater public awareness for individuals with disabilities, with the goal of full inclusion in our community.

Visitors & Security

FCPS regulation (4215.2) requires that parents and visitors sign in at the office and obtain a volunteer or visitor badge to be worn during the time they are present in the building. All staff members are required to stop and direct any adult not wearing a badge to go to the office to sign in and obtain a badge. For this reason, parents should not enter the building through any door but Door 1 (main enterance) to walk students to class (this includes the trailers), pick students up early, deliver forgotten items, etc. Younger siblings, other relatives, friends of students, and students from other schools are not permitted to spend the day “visiting” in classrooms. 

Observation Guidelines at Coates

The following guidelines have been developed in order to maintain a safe and secure learning environment at Coates Elementary School.   In the event a family would like to observe a student or have a clinician observe a student in their classroom environment, the following policy points must be followed:

• Parents/observer must contact the Principal and Assistant Principal in advance to arrange a mutually agreed upon date and time to observe in the school setting. Please provide specific reasons for the visit to assure the observation is productive and appropriate. Permission is required in order to arrange the observation.
• The school administrator reserves the right to refuse or decline an observation or visit if it is deemed inappropriate or if it is believed the observation may cause a disruption to the educational environment.
• Parents must sign a confidentiality release form before visitor/observer is allowed an observation.
• The school administrator will be present during all observations.
• Observations are set for a limited amount of time not to exceed 30 minutes (or time determined by administrator) in an individual classroom setting. This will assure a limited amount of disruption and distraction for the students and teachers. If the parent/guardian would like to complete more than one visit/observation, he/she must seek permission from the school administrator.
• If a parent wishes to bring another visitor/observer with him/her, permission must be sought from the school administrator. Other family members, consultants/advocates, therapists and/or other professionals visiting must be approved by the administrator.
• No pictures, video taping or electronic devices will be allowed during the observation.
• Shadowing of Coates' students is not permitted.
• All visitors are required to check in at the main office.

Walk and Roll to School Day

FCPS will participate in International Walk and Roll to School Day on Wednesday, October 9, in an effort to promote physical activity and reduce traffic congestion and pollution near schools.Students and employees are encouraged to bike or walk to school and work where safe to do so. Parents are encouraged to accompany their children to school, and to work with their school and PTA or PTO to assemble bike trains or walking groups for the event. Schools are encouraged to register online with Walk and Bike to School. Get more information about Walk to School Day.

📑 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.

📚 Social Studies Basal Resources Review

FCPS is adopting Social Studies Basal Resources for the 2025-26 school year. Basal resources are the primary resources used to support instruction in a given subject. Public review of the instructional materials under consideration — which is part of the process for selecting new resources — is underway. Visit the Community Review webpage for more information on how to view the materials online or in person. 

All community feedback will be shared with School Board members before they vote to select materials in spring 2025. FCPS adopts basal resources by the process outlined in Regulation 3004.

✨ The 2023-30 Strategic Plan — Goal 5: Leading for Tomorrow’s Innovation

FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan sets five main goals to create positive change in the division. These goals show where we should focus our attention and will help us align our efforts. 

Our final goal is Leading for Tomorrow’s Innovation. We are preparing our students for a future that has yet to be imagined. We must give them the skills they will need to succeed. Watch this video to see students exploring and preparing for careers through Career and Technical Experience programs. See how Goal 5 is being put into practice.

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- Fall Picture Day & PTA Meeting 6-7 pm

14th- Student Holiday- Indigenous Peoples' Day & Staff Development

21st- Mobile Dairy Lab Visit

26th- Fall Festival 10-2 pm

28th- 3 Hour Early Release @ 1pm

31st- End of 1st Quarter- 2 Hour Early Release

*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:

Christian Tilahun (Responsible)

3rd Grade:

Bradley Knapik (Responsible)

Naomi Zembrano (Responsible)

4th Grade:

Sulaiman Khan (Ready to Shine)

David Hernandez Lopez (Responsible)

Liana Keys (Respectful)

🗓️ Attendance Tip: Scheduling Family Trips or Events

Good attendance is an important life skill that will help students succeed in school and beyond.

When planning trips or family events, refer to the FCPS calendar and try to use weekends and school holidays. Every day of learning is a day toward success. Keep in mind that absences add up quickly. Students absent 10% of the school year (or just two days per month) are considered chronically absent.

When possible, schedule appointments for your child outside of school hours. If your child needs to miss school because of an illness or another reason, you must report the absence. 

Watch this video with tips on understanding the FCPS school year calendar and visit the Attendance webpage for additional information. Attend today, achieve tomorrow!

Community Conversations

🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Register Today for a Community Conversation! 

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid will host a series of Community Conversations this fall. She invites you to share your thoughts and ask questions. Click the dates below to register for any of the following conversations:

• Monday, September 30, at Mount Vernon Woods Elementary School.
• Monday, October 14, at Fairhill Elementary School.
• Monday, October 21, at Virginia Run Elementary School.
• Wednesday, October 30, at Herndon Middle School.

Events take place from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Childcare and language interpretation services will be provided.

✨ The 2023-30 Strategic Plan — Goal 4: Equitable Access to Opportunities

FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan sets five main goals to create positive change in the division. These goals show where we should focus our attention and will help us align our efforts. 

The fourth goal ensures all students have the same access to opportunities, no matter what school they attend. This includes academics and other programs that inspire and engage students and allow them to explore their passions and talents. See how Goal 4 is being put into practice.

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

2nd- National Walk to School Day

3rd- Student Holiday- Rosh Hashanah

4th- No School- Teacher Workday

9th- Fall Picture Day & PTA Meeting 6-7 pm

14th- Student Holiday- Indigenous Peoples' Day & Staff Development

21st- Mobile Dairy Lab Visit

26th- Fall Festival 10-2 pm

28th- 3 Hour Early Release @ 1pm

31st- End of 1st Quarter- 2 Hour Early Release

*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:

Aminata Kargbo (Responsible)

Declan Devine (Ready to Shine)

3rd Grade:

Yolanda Cruz Martinez (Respectful)

Biruhe Alene (Responsible)

4th Grade:

Travis Clark (Responsible)

Liam Nzayimigisha (Ready to Shine)

Angie Reyes Munguia (Ready to Shine)

Dagem Tilahun (Ready to Shine)

✰Blue Star Breakfast at Coates on Friday, September 27th✰

Are you a military-connected family? If so, sign up to join us for our Coates Blue Star Breakfast on Friday, September 27th 9:15-10:15am in our Coates cafeteria. Here is the link to RSVP for this event: https://forms.gle/zt5C2RS5bn7TLVYC9

We hope to connect with all of our military families here!

(This is open to those connected with militaries outside of the US as well.)

Every year, approximately 600,000 military-connected families relocate. Most of these families move to new duty stations, while some transition out of the military and others transition in. Most of these moves take place over the summer, and Fairfax County Public Schools is committed to ensuring our military families feel welcomed and a sense of belonging to their local community. 

Blue Star Welcome Week is an opportunity for our community to welcome our military-connected families and show them our appreciation for their service and sacrifices. Throughout the week, FCPS will help ease their transition through events, messages, actions of welcome, and opportunities to make meaningful connections. Please help us welcome our military families during Blue Star Welcome Week, September 21 - September 29, 2024, and throughout the year! #BlueStarWelcomeWeekFCPS 

🩹 Immunization Requirements

Please check with your healthcare provider as soon as possible to make sure your child is up to date on the immunizations required by the state of Virginia. Starting Monday, September 30, students who have not provided proof of immunization will not be allowed to attend school. 

You may check your child’s immunization compliance and submit their immunization record in SIS ParentVUE. Records may also be delivered to Coates ES front office. 

Alternative immunization documents (below) may also be provided, but they may not be uploaded in ParentVUE:  

• A healthcare provider’s written statement specifying all administered immunizations.
• A healthcare provider’s written statement of a permanent or temporary medical exemption.
• A notarized Religious Exemption form objecting to the administration of immunizations due to conflicts with religious tenets or practices.

Find more information on immunizations. 

Link: https://www.linkagainsthunger.org/what-we-do/holiday-program

Family Life Education

Dear Parent/Guardian:

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) offers a comprehensive Family Life Education (FLE) program. FLE instruction begins in kindergarten and continues through grade 12. FLE includes topics in human growth and development and social and emotional health. FLE instruction helps students gain knowledge and skills needed to make healthy, responsible, and life-enhancing decisions related to relationships and their physical, emotional, and social health. Parents and guardians are partners in their child’s learning.
FLE instruction supports the development of strong families, positive relationships, and a healthy community. Parents and guardians can review FLE materials. Parents/guardians can access FLE lessons in Schoology using their SIS username and password. Due to copyright permissions, we are unable to stream all media titles online. Lessons and media are available for review at your child’s school. Lessons only are also available at the City of Fairfax Regional Library (this location does not have media). To foster respect for family choices, parents/guardians may choose to opt their child out of all or part of the Family Life Education program. A student who is opted out will receive alternative health instruction.

To opt your child out of all or part of the FLE program for this school year, please complete the opt-out form. Return the completed form to your child’s school before FLE instruction begins. The opt-out form is available online. You do not need to return the form to the school if you wish for your child to take part in FLE instruction. FLE program descriptions and opt-out forms are available on the FCPS website.

• Elementary School https://www.fcps.edu/academics/elementary-school-academics-k6/elementary-family-life-education

For information about when FLE instruction will take place, please contact your child’s teacher or school.

For questions about the FLE program, please contact Instructional Services at 571-423-4550 or email [email protected].

This module will teach you how the education system works in the United States and Fairfax County, and about your rights and responsibilities to see your children grow up successfully

 

6:00 – 6:25 Family Dinner

6:30 – 8:00 Adult classes

6:30 – 8:00  Tutoring program for children K- 6 grade

Childcare for children 3 and 4 years old.

 

Registration Link

Edu-Futuro Información Demográfica COATES Programa para Padres / Edu-Futuro Parent Program Demographic Information. (google.com)

Student Rights and Responsibilities Acknowledgement Due

FCPS’ updated Student Rights and Responsibility (SR&R) booklet is available online and in SIS ParentVUE. The SR&R booklet explains expectations for student behavior, and adult responses to enhance school safety and to create a fair, equitable, and supportive school environment. 

Each year, we ask parents/caregivers to review and sign the SR&R. The SR&R will be visible upon logging in to SIS ParentVUE until the SR&R acknowledgment has been completed.

Signatures are due by Monday, September 30. Please contact our front office if you are having difficulty accessing the booklet. Visit the SIS ParentVUE Account Overview webpage for help logging in to your account.

✨ The 2023-30 Strategic Plan — Goal 3: Academic Growth and Excellence

FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan sets five main goals to create positive change in the division. These goals show where we should focus our attention and will help us align our efforts. 

Our third goal is for all students to achieve academic growth and excellence. We want our students to have the academic skills to be successful. For example, making sure they are readers by third grade and taking courses that challenge them throughout their education will help prepare them for lifelong success. See how Goal 3 is being put into practice. 

🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Register Today for a Community Conversation! 

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid will host a series of Community Conversations this fall. She invites you to share your thoughts and ask questions. Click the dates below to register for any of the following conversations:

• Monday, September 23, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Newington Forest Elementary School.
• Monday, September 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Mount Vernon Woods Elementary School.
• Monday, October 14, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Fairhill Elementary School.
• Monday, October 21, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Virginia Run Elementary School.
• Wednesday, October 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Herndon Middle School.

Events will take place from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Childcare and language interpretation services will be provided.

We All Belong at School

Each one of us is unique, and every student matters. If your student is having a difficult time attending class, please speak with a trusted adult at school. 

Watch this video to see how everyone belongs at school. Visit our Attendance webpage for resources on attendance. Attend today, achieve tomorrow!

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- 3 hour early release Monday @ 1 pm

2nd- National Walk to School Day

3rd- Student Holiday- Rosh Hashanah

4th- No School- Teacher Workday

9th- Fall Picture Day & PTA Meeting 6-7 pm

14th- Student Holiday- Indigenous Peoples' Day & Staff Development

21st- Mobile Dairy Lab Visit

26th- Fall Festival 10-2 pm

28th- 3 Hour Early Release @ 1pm

31st- End of 1st Quarter- 2 Hour Early Release

*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:

Soliyana Woldu (Ready to Shine)

1st Grade:

Adam Hamdard (Ready to Shine)

4th Grade:

Kayden Tweed (Responsible)

Alaia Lemus Cordon (Ready to Shine)

Nathaniel Ephrem (Responsible)

Joseph Gomez Maldonado (Ready to Shine)

Isaiah Middleton (Responsible)

Iker Serrano Ayala (Ready to Shine)

5th Grade:

Saefaldin Nimer (Responsible)

Khaleesi McCollum (Responsible)

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

🩹 Immunization Requirements

Please check with your healthcare provider as soon as possible to make sure your child is up to date on the immunizations required by the state of Virginia. Starting Monday, September 30, students who have not provided proof of immunization will not be allowed to attend school. 

You may check your child’s immunization compliance and submit their immunization record in SIS ParentVUE. Records may also be delivered to Coates ES front office. 

Alternative immunization documents (below) may also be provided, but they may not be uploaded in ParentVUE:  

• A healthcare provider’s written statement specifying all administered immunizations.
• A healthcare provider’s written statement of a permanent or temporary medical exemption.
• A notarized Religious Exemption form objecting to the administration of immunizations due to conflicts with religious tenets or practices.

Find more information on immunizations. 

🤒 When a Student Should Stay Home From School

Whether students miss school because of illness or any other reason, missing school leads to learning loss.

Help your child succeed by encouraging them to attend as many days as possible, but do make sure your child stays home if they are sick. Visit FCPS’ website for information on when to keep your child at home.

If your child has a chronic illness, make sure to notify their teacher so that support can be provided if needed. Also, keep an open line of communication with your school's public health staff.

Read about how families can help form good attendance habits. Attend today, achieve tomorrow!

🍽️Fueling Student Success: New Food Options Cooked up at FCPS

Students will have more than a dozen new options for lunch and breakfast in school cafeterias starting this week. New menu items were either favorites at last year’s food show — including Korean BBQ wings, sweet Thai chili wings, chicken tikka masala, and barbacoa street tacos — or were tested with student focus groups and tastings. 

View our school menu to see all the new options and when they will become available.

✨ The 2023-30 Strategic Plan — Goal 2: Safe, Supported, Included, Empowered

The Office of Food and Nutrition Services' updates to lunch menus align with FCPS’ Strategic Plan Goal #2 - Safe, Supported, Included, and Empowered. The new menu options reflect the many voices and cultures represented around every FCPS lunch table!

FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan sets five main goals to create positive change in the division. These goals show where we should focus our attention and will help us align our efforts. 

As part of the second goal, we want each and every student to feel like they belong and have the support they need to thrive. See how Goal 2 is being put into practice.

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- 3 hour early release Monday @ 1 pm

2nd- National Walk to School Day

3rd- Student Holiday- Rosh Hashanah

4th- No School- Teacher Workday

9th- Fall Picture Day & PTA Meeting 6-7 pm

14th- Student Holiday- Indigenous Peoples' Day & Staff Development

21st- Mobile Dairy Lab Visit

26th- Fall Festival 10-2 pm

28th- 3 Hour Early Release @ 1pm

31st- End of 1st Quarter- 2 Hour Early Release

*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.

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Our Teachers are Learning Too!

This year, Coates has adopted the Responsive Classroom approach, an evidence-based teaching and discipline method focused on engaging academics, building a positive community, effective classroom management, and developmental awareness. This past Thursday morning, teachers collaborated in groups during our staff meeting to practice and plan for implementing key components of this approach.  You can learn more about Responsive Classroom here.

Join Us for Back to School Night! September 11 National Day of Service

With the upcoming 23rd anniversary of September 11, FCPS acknowledges the loss of life, the heroism of our first responders, and the resilience of our country. The September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance, also called Patriot Day, is a chance to reflect and act in service to others to honor those who were injured or killed in the terrorist attacks.

All FCPS students are encouraged to participate in service learning as it supports Portrait of a Graduate (POG) attributes and social and emotional learning (SEL) skills. Middle and high school students can learn more about service learning by logging into their Naviance account to access x2VOL.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Students in Gr 3 - 6

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) believes in supporting social and emotional learning (SEL) for all students. In FCPS, students use a tool called the SEL Screener to think about their own SEL skills and experiences at school. Coates students in grades 3 - 6 will be participating in the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener in the Fall and Spring. 

After each screening, results are available in the Documents tab of SIS ParentVUE and mailed to families without a ParentVUE account. For more information about the SEL Screener including information on opting out please see the attached SEL Screener Parent Notification. You can also learn more on the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage

SEL Screener Info - English

SEL Screener Info - Spanish

SEL Screener Info - Arabic

SEL Screener Info - Chinese

SEL Screener Info - Korean

SEL Screener Info - Urdu

SEL Screener Info - Vietnamese

• Arrival begins at 9:00am with the tardy bell ringing at 9:15am.
• Students arriving after 9:15am will need to be signed in to the office by a parent.
• At arrival, all students should enter through the main school doors (door 1).
• Dismissal begins at 4:00pm
• At dismissal, all bus students exit through door 1, walkers exit through door 3, and kiss and ride exit through the library.
• Any changes in transportation should be communicated with the office via phone (703)713-3000 by 3pm to ensure the change is communicated to the classroom teacher.
• At Kiss and Ride, you must stay in your car.  If you need to get out, please pull into a parking spot.
• Parking and picking up from the gravel lot back by the trailers is prohibited as we need to keep that area clear for daycare van pick-ups.
• During arrival and dismissal, all parents/students must use the crosswalk ONLY when crossing the street.

🍎 Make Every Day Count! The Importance of Attendance

As you plan upcoming trips and other family events, please remember the importance of sending your child to school every day. Review the FCPS School Year Calendar and try to plan any time away during breaks from school. 

Children who show up for school regularly develop fundamental reading and math skills while building a habit of good attendance that will carry them into college and careers. Research shows that children who were chronically absent (missing 18 days or more) in kindergarten and first grade were far less likely to read proficiently at the end of third grade.

Learn how families can help form good attendance habits.

Volunteer Opportunities

The Helping Hands Parent Group is hosting a training session for parents who are interested in volunteering at Coates. Our first training session will be held on September 10th from 9:30 to 10:30am.

To sign up please use the following link::

https://forms.gle/oUYBo3v76n6CgSLz7

✨ The 2023-30 Strategic Plan — Goal 1: Strong Start, Pre-K-12

The 2023-30 strategic plan sets five main goals to create positive change in FCPS. These goals show where we should focus our attention and will help us align our efforts. 

Each goal has an equity commitment — the promise we make to every student to support them in attaining these goals. Each goal also has several measures that allow us to track our progress.

The first goal in the strategic plan focuses on each and every student having a strong start in FCPS. Whether they're joining us in preschool or in high school, we want our students to be set up for success.See how Goal 1 is being put into practice.

🩹 Immunization Requirements

Please check with your health care provider as soon as possible to make sure your child is up to date on the immunizations required by the state of Virginia. Starting Monday, September 30, students who have not provided proof of immunization will not be allowed to attend school. 

You may check your child’s immunization compliance and submit their immunization record in SIS ParentVUE. Records may also be delivered to your school’s front office. 

Alternative immunization documents (below) may also be provided to your school’s front office, but they may not be uploaded in ParentVUE:  

• A health care provider’s written statement specifying all administered immunizations.
• A health care provider’s written statement of a permanent or temporary medical exemption.
• A notarized Religious Exemption form objecting to the administration of immunizations due to conflicts with their religious tenets or practices.

Find more information on immunizations. 

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- PTA Meeting- 6-6:30pm

11th- Back to School Night 6:30-8:00pm

23rd- 3 hour early release Monday @ 1 pm

2nd- National Walk to School Day

3rd- Student Holiday- Rosh Hashanah

4th- No School- Teacher Workday

9th- Fall Picture Day & PTA Meeting 6-7 pm

14th- Student Holiday- Indigenous Peoples' Day & Staff Development

21st- Mobile Dairy Lab Visit

26th- Fall Festival 10-2 pm

28th- 3 Hour Early Release @ 1pm

31st- End of 1st Quarter- 2 Hour Early Release

*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