FCPS

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Principal's Message

Dear Parents,

I am excited to introduce myself as the interim principal of Coates ES. With a strong background in educational leadership, I am committed to ensuring a seamless transition while Mr. Basdekis is home with his new baby. My focus is on maintaining the nurturing and innovative environment here at Coates where your child can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. I look forward to working with you and our dedicated faculty and staff until the end of the school year. Please do not hesitate to reach out at [email protected].

 

Warm regards,

 

Maureen Boland

Interim Principal

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:

2nd Grade:

Alexa Olaya-Morales (Responsible)

Solomon Kiberu-Mubanga (Responsible)

4th Grade:

Willian Hernandez Sanchez (Ready to Shine)

Bilguun Naran-Erdene (Responsible)

Dheekshitha Guddeti (Ready to Shine)

Fredis Alvarenga Cerros (Responsible)

6th Grade:

Yohan Sorto Rivera (Ready to Shine)

💪 Let's Finish the School Year Strong!

• Student attendance at school is important all year long, up to the last day of school. Attendance has an effect on student performance and on school accreditation. See how to:

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

Learn more about attendance resources. 

Resources for Newly Registered Families

Being connected to your school community helps you stay informed and support your child’s success. Take some time to get familiar with the many resources and tools available to FCPS families, including:

• School Age Child Care (SACC) – This Fairfax County government program provides a safe and fun environment before and after school for elementary school-age children.
• FCPS Communications for Families – FCPS shares news and information to support student learning and promote family involvement.
• Family Engagement Resources – FCPS works to connect, strengthen, and support our families, schools, and communities. 
• Do You Know About Family Liaisons? – Family liaisons serve as a link between families and schools. You may contact Solangie McPherson, our family liaison, at [email protected].  

There’s an easy to follow five-step process outlined for parents registering their children for kindergarten. Be sure to register your child as soon as possible! 

Register Your Children Online

Online registration is available for new and returning (re-enrolling) FCPS families! Apply today to help us plan for the 2024-25 school year. 

🩹 Required Immunizations for Rising 7th and 12th Graders

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

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

☀️ Save the Date for FCPS’ Summer Extravaganza

Don’t miss a day of family fun and learning at the FCPS Summer Extravaganza! 

Stop by Woodson High School on Saturday, June 1, 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., where students will be able to take part in engaging educational activities designed to spark curiosity and inspire growth. 

Representatives from local businesses, Fairfax County Public Library, and the Fairfax County Park Authority are participating in the Summer Extravaganza. Community organizations, such as Neighborhood Community Services, will be at the event as well. All will have learning activities, tips, and helpful information for families. Enjoy face painting, food, music, a moon bounce, a petting zoo, storytime, and student performances — all at no cost!

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

Summer Strings Opportunity

Exciting news! SoCo Summer Strings is returning this summer! The camp will be hosted at South County Middle School from July 8-19, 8:30am-12:30pm, weekdays only. Camp is open to all rising 5th-9th grade students with at least one year of experience on the violin, viola, cello, or bass. Students will participate in two large ensemble rehearsals, an instrument-specific technique class, and a sectional each day. You can find more information and registration for camp at www.schsorchestra.org/soco-summer-strings. Early registration is from March 1-June 9, so reserve your student’s spot soon!

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- Teacher Work Day- No School for Students & Orthodox Good Friday

6th-10th- Teacher Appreciation Week

7th- 6th grade Panoramic Photo

8th-  Walk, Bike & Roll to School Day 

18th- National Speech Pathologist Day

27th- No School-Memorial Day

 

*The full FCPS 2023-2024 calendar can be accessed here.

Follow Coates on Social Media

FACEBOOK: FCPS L.L. Coates Elementary School

FACEBOOK (PTA): L.L. Coates Elementary PTA

X (Formerly Twitter): @CoatesES

L.L. Coates Website: https://coateses.fcps.edu/

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.

Thank You for Your Donations!

Marcia Morris graciously delivered donations to Coates Elementary on behalf of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and Lambda Kappa Omega Chapter. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for this generous contribution, knowing it will make a meaningful difference in the lives of the families who receive it!

What Happened at Coates this Week?

This week at Coates, our kindergarteners marked Earth Day with a range of engaging activities. They sorted recyclables, tidied up our school grounds, and created Earth Day-themed chalk drawings. Amidst bubbles, snacks, and popsicles, they reveled in the splendid weather. Meanwhile, our first graders welcomed farm animals for the inaugural 'Goats at Coates' experience. They delighted in feeding the animals and getting up close to them.

SOL Schedule

April/May 2024

☎️ Parent Information Phone Lines Available in Eight Languages

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

Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!

As we approach the end of the school year, it’s important for students to stay engaged, attend school, and finish strong! Visit our website for attendance resources. 

🖍️ 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. Eligible children can also be registered throughout the summer, but registering your child early helps us plan, so that we have the teachers and resources needed on the first day of school. 

We are happy to support families with registration and the transition to kindergarten. For more information in other languages, visit FCPS’ Kindergarten Registration webpage.

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

30th- SOLs Begin in grades 3-6

1st- Spring Picture Day

2nd- Kindergarten Orientation 5-6pm

3rd- Teacher Work Day- No School for Students & Orthodox Good Friday

6th-10th- Teacher Appreciation Week

7th- 6th grade Panoramic Photo

8th-  Walk, Bike & Roll to School Day 

18th- National Speech Pathologist Day

27th- No School-Memorial Day

 

*The full FCPS 2023-2024 calendar can be accessed here.

Follow Coates on Social Media

FACEBOOK: FCPS L.L. Coates Elementary School

FACEBOOK (PTA): L.L. Coates Elementary PTA

X (Formerly Twitter): @CoatesES

L.L. Coates Website: https://coateses.fcps.edu/

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.

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:

2nd Grade:

Ovi Yelmar (Ready to Shine)

Sharanpandian Soundrapandian (Responsible)

Amani Bushrod (Ready to Shine)

5th Grade:

Jabr Alsubaiy (Responsible)

6th Grade:

Yabsira Alemu (Ready to Shine)

Coates Multicultural Night 2024 was a success!  Thank you to the PTA, students, families, parents, staff, and volunteers that made our night so special.  We couldn't have done it without you! We want to extend a special thanks to Mr. & Mrs. Coates who attended Multicultural Night to share the story of Mr. Coates' mother, Mrs. Lutie Lewis Coates.

This past Thursday, April 18th was the Westfield Pyramid Art Show.  Many of our talented Coates artists had their art on display and were honored at the art show ceremony.  Congrats artists and thank you to our talented and supportive art teachers, Mrs. Claessen and Mrs. Reihanifard!

Autism Acceptance Month

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

Social and Emotional Learning Screener Results Coming Soon

FCPS students in grades 3-12 took the Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener during March, providing updated information on skills such as achieving goals, understanding and managing emotions, establishing and maintaining relationships with adults and peers, and making responsible decisions. The SEL Screener also helps students evaluate their school community’s efforts to make them feel valued, included, and supported. 

In late April, individual student SEL Screener results will be available for families in the Documents section of SIS ParentVUE. For families who do not have an active ParentVUE account, results will be sent via postal mail. 

Get more information about the screener on the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage. For support in understanding your individual student’s results or ideas on how to support them at home, please review the Family Guide or contact your student’s counselor. 

Summer Arts Camp

Don’t miss out on this summer’s most exciting arts enrichment program! At Elementary Institute for the Arts (E-IFTA), students take art, music, theater, and dance classes daily. E-IFTA is for current second through fifth grade students. Learn more on the E-IFTA webpage. Email [email protected] with any questions.

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

22nd- Earth Day

30th- SOLs Begin in grades 3-6

1st- Spring Picture Day

2nd- Kindergarten Orientation 5-6pm

3rd- Teacher Work Day- No School for Students & Orthodox Good Friday

6th-10th- Teacher Appreciation Week

7th- 6th grade Panoramic Photo

8th-  Walk, Bike & Roll to School Day 

18th- National Speech Pathologist Day

27th- No School-Memorial Day

 

*The full FCPS 2023-2024 calendar can be accessed here.

Follow Coates on Social Media

FACEBOOK: FCPS L.L. Coates Elementary School

FACEBOOK (PTA): L.L. Coates Elementary PTA

X (Formerly Twitter): @CoatesES

L.L. Coates Website: https://coateses.fcps.edu/

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.

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:

Minerva Ramirez Hernandez (Responsible)

2nd Grade:

Jeycob Vivas Bautista (Respectful)

4th Grade:

Allan Garcia Murcia (Ready to Shine)

Diego Abrego Otero (Responsible)

Alexis Perez Ramos (Responsible & Ready to Shine)

5th Grade:

Karla Pineda (Ready to Shine)

Walter Amaya (Responsible)

Join Us on April 19th at Coates Multicultural Night! Before-school Programs

Coates Elementary has started our co-curricular and extra-curricular opportunities for our students. Tuesday and Thursday mornings are focused on Math and Literacy interventions with invite only. These programs run weekly through the month of May and are offered before school 8:00-9:00am.

Wednesday mornings (8:00-9:00am) are open-enrollment for all Coates students to participate in enrichment programs. We do have limited spots still available for select clubs if you wish for your child to join us. These programs run weekly through the month of May. Please note grade levels clubs are designated for.

• Soccer – 3rd grade through 6th grade
• Basketball – 5th grade & 6th grade
• Painting – 4th grade through 6th grade
• Canva – 2nd grade
• Puzzles – kindergarten through 3rd grade
• Board games – 2nd grade through 5th grade
• Zumba Dance – 2nd grade through 5th grade

 

NEW club opportunity- Wednesday morning 8am – 9am

• Chess Club – 4th grade through 6th grade

 

After School ONLY – Wednesday’s from 415-515pm

• Young Minds of Money – 3rd grade through 6th grade

 

We do have the ability to provide transportation if needed, but due to the bus routes in place for the middle and high school students in FCPS, we are only able to provide a very early pick up time to help our students access these programs. 

 

Please direct any spot requests or questions to our Before-school Program Coordinator, Jessica Luecke at [email protected].

Month of the Military Child

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

Purple Up! Day- April 17th

To show our support for all our military-connected families, we are inviting all Fairfax County students, families, school employees, and community members to “Purple Up!” on April 17  for military children. Why purple? Purple symbolizes all branches of the military as a combination of Army green, Marine Corps red, and Coast Guard, Navy, Air Force and Space Force blue. 

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- Military Child Appreciation Day (wear purple)

19th- Multicultural Night 5:30-8pm

30th- SOLs Begin in grades 3-6

1st- Spring Picture Day

2nd- Kindergarten Orientation 5-6pm

3rd- Teacher Work Day- No School for Students & Orthodox Good Friday

6th-10th- Teacher Appreciation Week

7th- 6th grade Panoramic Photo

8th-  Walk, Bike & Roll to School Day 

18th- National Speech Pathologist Day

27th- No School-Memorial Day

 

*The full FCPS 2023-2024 calendar can be accessed here.

Follow Coates on Social Media

FACEBOOK: FCPS L.L. Coates Elementary School

FACEBOOK (PTA): L.L. Coates Elementary PTA

X (Formerly Twitter): @CoatesES

L.L. Coates Website: https://coateses.fcps.edu/

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.

Message from the Principal

Dear Coates Community,

As some of you may know, my wife and I are expecting our second child in May and I will be going out on Paternity Leave for the last 6 weeks of the school year.  We are beyond excited to welcome another little girl into our family and I wanted to share the transition plan that we have coordinated to ensure a smooth operation at Coates for the remainder of the school year.  I hope to be here all during the month of April and I am looking forward to picking it all back up over the summer to finish preparing for the 2024-25 school year.

In the interim, Dr. Maureen Boland will be stepping in as the acting principal.  Dr. Boland retired from FCPS after a 30-year career in which she served as an elementary teacher, instructional coach, assistant principal, and principal of both Haycock and Rolling Valley Elementary Schools.  Dr. Boland also serves as an adjunct professor for the University of Virginia School of Education and Human Development and as a university facilitator for the George Mason University College of Education and Human Development.  Dr. Boland will be joining the Coates team intermittently over the next few weeks until I get the call to run home or to the hospital!  She can be reached at [email protected] or by calling the main office at 703-713-3000.

Additionally, we want to congratulate Jessica King on her recent appointment to a Project Manager position with the Office of Strategic Planning in FCPS central office.  She will officially begin this new role on May 1st, but will still have the opportunity to come back and support our end of year closeout for a couple of days here and there.  

Jessica has given so much to the Coates community over the last 7 years as an assistant principal and we are certainly going to miss her.  She has been a critical member of our admin team and has provided tremendous leadership, stability, organization, and a wealth of instructional knowledge to support positive outcomes for kids.  Like many of you all, our team is just grateful to have been able to work with her and to call her a friend.  Jessica is ready to leave school-based administration and to continue her leadership in Fairfax County in this new position where we know she will excel tremendously!

In the interim, Rachel Sweeney will join our team beginning on May 1st to support the closeout of the school year.  Rachel has more than 30 years of experience as an educator. She started her career in Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) in 1998 as an elementary school teacher at Parklawn Elementary School, teaching grades K-2. In 2009 Dr. Sweeney had the privilege to be on the opening staff at Coates Elementary, working with multilingual learners as a member of the English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) team for five years. For the past ten years she has worked at Rocky Run Middle School, first as an English and Literacy teacher and for the past several years as Dean of Students.​​​​​​​

While Dr. Sweeney will support us at Coates for the remainder of this year, the Region 5 Leadership Team has appointed Tiffanie Wu to transition into the vacant Assistant Principal position at Coates and she will join our administrative team when she returns on contract in July.  Tiffanie was born and raised in Vienna, Virginia, and attended Oakton High School. She graduated from Virginia Tech, where she received her bachelor’s degree and Master’s of Education in Curriculum and Instruction. Her first position in Fairfax County was a fourth grade teacher at Cardinal Forest Elementary School. During that time, she went to George Mason and received her Master’s in Mathematics Specialist Leadership. In pursuing her love for math, she worked at Providence Elementary School for ten years as a Title I math specialist and as an instructional coach. She later went back to George Mason to receive an endorsement in administration.

In her spare time, she loves spending time with family and friends. Most of her extended family still live in the area, and they always enjoy a large family gathering! She has a daughter in 8th grade and a son in 5th grade along with two dogs that keep her very busy!  Tiffanie is in her sixth year at Centre Ridge Elementary as an assistant principal and is super excited to continue her administrative journey with us at Coates for the 24-25 school year!

Please join me in wishing Jessica the very best in her new role and in welcoming Rachel and Tiffanie to the Coates family!

 

Sincerely,

Paul Basdekis

Principal 

L.L. Coates Elementary

Message from Mrs. King

Dear Coates Families,

It is with a heavy heart that I announce that I have accepted an offer to become the Program Manager in the FCPS Office of Strategy, Planning, and Learning.  As happy as I am to be pursuing my next endeavor, I am also sad that I find myself saying goodbye to you and your children. 

I would like to thank you for the opportunity you have given me to serve the Coates community over the last seven years.  Coates is a very special place to me, and I am grateful that our paths have crossed in this amazing community.  It has been my honor and privilege to have served such a special community. 

 

All my best,

Jessica King

Assistant Principal

Solar Eclipse- Monday, April 8th

Good afternoon Coates Families,

As you may know, this Monday we will experience a solar eclipse in our area between 2:03pm and 4:32pm with the peak at 3:19pm.  This is certainly an exciting educational event that we want all of our students to participate in.  Our plan is to provide teachers with resources to incorporate the event into their instructional day and to allow grade 4-6 students to view the eclipse with approved protective glasses that we have provided, while our students in grade K-3 will view the eclipse live online via the NASA website.  If you have a student in grades 4-6 and would like them to stay inside during this event, please contact your child’s teacher directly or notify the main office at 703-713-3000.

 

While we prioritize regular school attendance and would prefer the students to access the eclipse experience through the planned classroom instruction, we recognize the novelty of this solar event.  Therefore, if it is important to you to experience the eclipse as a family, you are welcome to check your child out of school early so that you can view the eclipse together.

 

Solar Eclipse Resources including a link to the live NASA viewing feed are located here on the FCPS website link.

 

Thank you,

Paul Basdekis

Principal 

L.L. Coates Elementary School

No School- Wednesday, April 10th

In Islam, Eid-al-Fitr is a three day festival to mark the end of Ramadan. Muslims dress in new clothes, give charity, and pray in congregation. Eid is celebrated with the exchange of presents and delicious food with family and friends. Read more at Britannica.com.

Tuesday, April 9, has been designated as a half-O day. Half-O days are full school days, but important events will not be held after school on those days. Wednesday, April 10, is an FCPS holiday and all schools and offices will be closed. See the complete School Year Calendar. 

Before School Programs

As you know, Coates Elementary recently received Title I designation by the federal government and have been provided additional school funds to support a variety of instructional and community outreach initiatives.  Due to this funding opportunity, our school team worked very hard on an aggressive timeline to coordinate a robust before-school program that would provide both co-curricular and extra-curricular opportunities for our students.  We have been able to invite hundreds of students to participate in Math and Literacy interventions based on need (Tuesday and Thursday), while providing open-enrollment to students for participation in our Wednesday morning enrichment programs. 

We have sent information out about our program offerings via Talking Points over the past few weeks and we will send out additional information next week to outline any open spots that we still have in our Wednesday morning extra-curricular programs in case you might still be interested in enrolling your child.  The programs run this week through the month of May and are offered before school from 8-9am.  We do have the ability to provide transportation if needed, but due to the bus routes in place for the middle and high school students in FCPS, we are only able to provide a very early pick up time to help our students access these programs. 

Please direct any questions to our Before-school Program Coordinator, Jessica Luecke at [email protected]

Last Chance! Sign Up to Represent Your Culture on April 19th at Coates Multicultural Night!

This event is open to all cultures including states across the USA, so please consider representing your state with a booth if you do not have another country outside of the USA to represent.  You can use this form to sign up to represent your heritage at Multicultural Night.

National Library Week

April is School Library Month and it's a great time to celebrate the essential role that school librarians play in the lives of students. School librarians ensure students have access to a wide variety of high-quality books and resources that connect them to the world and build a culture of literacy. Librarians develop lessons that are meaningful to students and help them develop critical thinking, inquiry, and information literacy skills. They support learning across all subject areas by teaching students the skills to be independent problem-solvers and creative thinkers. By creating a safe environment for all students to be engaged and curious learners, FCPS libraries are places where everyone belongs.

Take a moment to learn more about FCPS Library Programs and share your appreciation of our school librarian, Ms. Meehan, [email protected]!

National Arab American Heritage Month

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

Muslim American Heritage Month

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

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

8th- Solar Eclipse

10th- Student Holiday- Eid al Fitr

11th- AAP parent info night 5-6pm & PTA Meeting @ 6pm (Library)

19th- Military Child Appreciation Day & Multicultural Night 5:30-8pm

30th- SOLs Begin in grades 3-6

1st- Spring Picture Day

2nd- Kindergarten Orientation 5-6pm

3rd- Teacher Work Day- No School for Students & Orthodox Good Friday

6th-10th- Teacher Appreciation Week

7th- 6th grade Panoramic Photo

18th- National Speech Pathologist Day

27th- No School-Memorial Day

 

*The full FCPS 2023-2024 calendar can be accessed here.

Follow Coates on Social Media

FACEBOOK: FCPS L.L. Coates Elementary School

FACEBOOK (PTA): L.L. Coates Elementary PTA

X (Formerly Twitter): @CoatesES

L.L. Coates Website: https://coateses.fcps.edu/

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.

Spring Break 🌷

March 25-29 is spring break. Schools and school offices will be closed.

 

We wish our students and teachers a happy and restful Spring Break!

 

April 1st & 2nd are School Planning/Teacher Work Days

There will be no school for students on April 1 and 2 for school planning/teacher work days. We will welcome our students back to school on Wednesday, April 3rd.

See the complete school year calendar here.

Sign Up to Represent Your Culture on April 19th at Coates Multicultural Night!

This event is open to all cultures including states across the USA, so please consider representing your state with a booth if you do not have another country outside of the USA to represent.  You can use this form to sign up to represent your heritage at Multicultural Night.

✅ Take the Family Engagement Survey Today!

If you haven’t already, please take FCPS’ Family Engagement Survey today! Survey results will help us to better recognize, understand, respect, and address family strengths and needs in our school community. Survey topics include:

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

The survey is available in 10 languages. Please check your email for a message from FCPS partner, K12 Insight, with a link to the survey or access the survey now. Your voice matters!

🤧 Updated COVID Recommendations

In accordance with the updated Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) respiratory virus guidance, FCPS and the Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD) have updated school COVID-19 recommendations.

The COVID-19 isolation period of five days is no longer recommended. 

New respiratory virus guidance applies to respiratory viral illnesses, including COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Students who have symptoms of, test positive for, or have been diagnosed with a respiratory virus may return to school when the student is fever-free for 24 hours without fever reducing medication; AND the student’s symptoms have improved or resolved. 

Students should follow additional precautions as outlined per the CDC upon resumption of normal activities. 

Should I Send My Child to School?

Please refer to the chart on this attendance webpage if your child is experiencing symptoms or illnesses, and you are unsure if they should go to school. 

Thank you for helping keep our students and staff healthy.

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

FCPS funds the use of Lexia for all elementary and middle schools as part of their literacy instruction. Lexia is a computer-based program that supplements classroom instruction to help students develop literacy skills. It also provides teachers with data to identify students who need additional support and the ability to know which specific concepts and skills to prioritize.Attend a virtual information night on Tuesday, April 9, to learn more about Lexia and how FCPS is integrating it into the classroom to support student growth. Participants will also get tips for supporting their students at home. Integrating Lexia into the literacy curriculum aligns with the Virginia Literacy Act, FCPS’ Equitable Access to Literacy, and FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan Goal 3, which aims to have all students reading on level by the end of third grade. 

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

22nd- End of 3rd Quarter (No early release)

25th-29th- Spring Break- No School

29th- Good Friday

30th- Easter

1st- Teacher Work Day- No School & April Fool's Day

2nd- Staff Development Day- No School

4th- National School Librarian Day

10th- Student Holiday- Eid al Fitr

19th- Military Child Appreciation Day & Multicultural Night 5:30-8pm

30th- SOLs Begin in grades 3-6

 

*The full FCPS 2023-2024 calendar can be accessed here.

Follow Coates on Social Media

FACEBOOK: FCPS L.L. Coates Elementary School

FACEBOOK (PTA): L.L. Coates Elementary PTA

X (Formerly Twitter): @CoatesES

L.L. Coates Website: https://coateses.fcps.edu/

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.

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:

2nd Grade:

Mason Hammond (Ready to Shine)

Flor Fuentes Leon (Ready to Shine)

Imani Da Silva (Respectful)

3rd Grade:

Shreyas Dontula (Responsible)

Sri Bhandaru (Respectful)

✅ Take the Family Engagement Survey Today!

If you haven’t already, please take FCPS’ Family Engagement Survey today! Survey results will help us to better recognize, understand, respect, and address family strengths and needs in our school community. Survey topics include:

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

The survey is available in 10 languages. Please check your email for a message from FCPS partner, K12 Insight, with a link to the survey or access the survey now. Your voice matters!

Coates Family Academy: Loving Solutions Class Sign Up to Represent Your Culture on April 19th at Coates Multicultural Night!

Use this form to sign up to represent your heritage at Multicultural Night.

Lightspeed Classroom Management

As part of our commitment to creating a safe and focused learning environment for our students, our school is using a classroom management tool that will help teachers better connect with student devices during classes. We are continuing to expand our use over the coming weeks. This tool will provide teachers with a number of helpful features:

• Easily view student screens in real time from the teacher console to see which students may need guidance or support.
• Focus student attention on a particular website on their device to minimize distractions.
• Pause student access to the internet to focus on other classroom tasks.

We believe this classroom management tool will allow us to maximize class time to support your student’s learning while at school. Please note that student devices will not be monitored outside of school hours. The regular filters remain in place on school devices, but once they are home, teachers cannot monitor students. As parents, we would like to encourage you to sign up for your own Lightspeed reports, which will allow you to see how your child is spending time on the computer during and after school hours. To request these reports, please use this link.

🩹 Measles Is Preventable

Measles is making headlines as the number of cases nationwide has topped 40, with three confirmed cases in people living in or traveling through the National Capital Region. 

The good news is that measles is preventable through vaccination! Vaccines help teach the immune system how to defend against germs, helping to build up natural defenses. Give your child the best protection against measles with two doses of the Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine. Visit the Fairfax County Health Department website to find out more about measles.

Extended Hours at Immunization Clinics

To help parents/caregivers obtain vaccinations for their children, the Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD) will offer immunization clinics with extended hours:

 

• Thursday, March 21, 4:30-7:30 p.m., Joseph Willard Health Center.Walk-ins are accepted until 7 p.m.
• Friday, March 22, 1-5:30 p.m., Annandale District Office. Walk-ins are accepted until 5 p.m.

Parents/caregivers should make an appointment but a limited number of walk-ins will be accepted. Please call 703-246-7100 to schedule an appointment.

Learn more about vaccinating your child and find community resources to support their health and well-being. 

Note: All students enrolling in public and private schools in Virginia are required to be adequately immunized per the Code of Virginia.

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- St. Patrick's Day

19th- First Day of Spring

22nd- End of 3rd Quarter

25th-29th- Spring Break- No School

29th- Good Friday

30th- Easter

1st- Teacher Work Day- No School & April Fool's Day

2nd- Staff Development Day- No School

4th- National School Librarian Day

10th- Student Holiday- Eid al Fitr

19th- Military Child Appreciation Day & Multicultural Night 5:30-8pm

30th- SOLs Begin in grades 3-6

 

*The full FCPS 2023-2024 calendar can be accessed here.

Follow Coates on Social Media

FACEBOOK: FCPS L.L. Coates Elementary School

FACEBOOK (PTA): L.L. Coates Elementary PTA

X (Formerly Twitter): @CoatesES

L.L. Coates Website: https://coateses.fcps.edu/

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.

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:

Kendra Cruz-Rangel (Responsible)

Barnita Bellamkonda (Ready to Shine)

4th Grade:

Bethania Getu (Ready to Shine)

Diego Abrego Otero (Responsible)

Darvin Rodas Rivera (Ready to Shine)

Thanks for Visiting Coates Mr. McElveen!

This year, the first full day of Ramadan is Monday, March 11. In Islam, Ramadan is the most sacred month of the year. During this month Muslims abstain from food and drink from dawn to sunset each day while striving to increase their spirituality, through prayers, charity and good deeds. Read more about Ramadan in National Geographic Kids. March 11 is an O day. The school calendar recognizes many religious and cultural observances (O days) during the school year. There is school on these days, however tests, quizzes, field trips, graduation, homecoming, or FCPS-scheduled athletic events will not be held on these observance days. See the complete 2022-23 school year calendar.Throughout the year, as we celebrate and recognize various cultural holidays and observances, families are encouraged to contact their student’s teacher regarding accommodations, including but not limited to those around lunch, prayer/meditation and silent reflection spaces and times, and instruction. 

Daylight Saving Begins

Sunday, March 10, at 2 a.m., daylight saving time begins. Don’t forget to move your clocks ahead one hour! As a result of the time change, many students will be walking to school or to bus stops in the dark. Help your child stay safe by having them wear reflective clothing and bright or light colors, or add reflective items to their backpacks or clothes. Also, encourage your child to be especially alert for cars that are turning or backing up and not to run into the street or cross between parked cars.

Coates Book Fair 2024

The Coates Book Fair is next week. We are in need of volunteers.  If you can support our Book Fair, please sign up using this link.  You can browse books online here. Please see ordering instructions here. You can contact our librarian, Mrs. Meehan at [email protected] with any questions.

Lightspeed Classroom Management

As part of our commitment to creating a safe and focused learning environment for our students, our school is using a classroom management tool that will help teachers better connect with student devices during classes. We are continuing to expand our use over the coming weeks. This tool will provide teachers with a number of helpful features:

• Easily view student screens in real time from the teacher console to see which students may need guidance or support.
• Focus student attention on a particular website on their device to minimize distractions.
• Pause student access to the internet to focus on other classroom tasks.

We believe this classroom management tool will allow us to maximize class time to support your student’s learning while at school. Please note that student devices will not be monitored outside of school hours. The regular filters remain in place on school devices, but once they are home, teachers cannot monitor students. As parents, we would like to encourage you to sign up for your own Lightspeed reports, which will allow you to see how your child is spending time on the computer during and after school hours.

Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!

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

✅ Take the Family Engagement Survey!

FCPS’ Family Engagement Survey is now open. Survey partner K12 Insight emailed a link to families on March 3 and again on March 6. Please participate! Your feedback is critical in helping to inform and improve FCPS practices to best support our students.

The survey is available in 10 languages. All responses are confidential. Parents/caregivers may stop by the front office to fill out a paper survey or complete the survey online. Please check your email for the survey invitation or use this survey link. Get more information on the Family Engagement Survey webpage.

Edu Futuro Graduates from Coates Family Academy "Loving Solutions" Coates Academy Class

Please join our Family Liaison, Solangie McPherson, for a new Coates Academy Session called "Loving Solutions".  This class meets every Tuesday.  Dinner and childcare is provided.  Register here.

New Regulation on Meditation and Silent Reflection Spaces

FCPS has developed Regulation 1502 to ensure all students and staff have reasonable accommodation and access to meditation and silent reflection spaces within the school division. The regulation provides guidance for schools on how to manage requests for silent reflection during instructional and non-instructional time, and for students to leave school for religious activities.

These spaces are for individuals to engage in prayer, meditation, or silent reflection, inclusive of their religious or non-religious beliefs. Parents/caregivers must provide written permission for students requesting to miss instructional time on a regular basis. Families are encouraged to contact their child's teacher regarding accommodations. View Regulation 1502. Visit FCPS' Guidelines for Religious Activities webpage for more information.

☀️ Safely View the Total Solar Eclipse on April 8

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

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

🥁 Summer Camps and Learning Programs

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

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

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- First Full Day of Ramadan

13th- Upper (4-6) Family Math Night- 6-7pm

14th- Book Fair Family Night- 5:30-7:30pm & Pi Day

17th- St. Patrick's Day

19th- First Day of Spring

22nd- End of 3rd Quarter- 2 hour early release for students-2pm

25th-29th- Spring Break- No School

29th- Good Friday

30th- Easter

 

*The full FCPS 2023-2024 calendar can be accessed here.

Follow Coates on Social Media

FACEBOOK: FCPS L.L. Coates Elementary School

FACEBOOK (PTA): L.L. Coates Elementary PTA

X (Formerly Twitter): @CoatesES

L.L. Coates Website: https://coateses.fcps.edu/

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. Our school typically conducts kindergarten registration events, including orientation, in the spring during May. Eligible children can also be registered throughout the summer, but registering your child early helps us plan, so that we have the teachers and resources needed on the first day of school. 

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

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.

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:

Rayan Mohammed (Respectful, Responsible & Ready to Shine)

5th Grade:

Christopher Fuentes Ulloa (Responsible)

No School March 5th- School Planning Day

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

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

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

Lunch Dance Party- March 8th

On Friday we will be having a: 

Dance Party during student lunches on Friday, March 8th.  Students can bring a beach towel to sit on.

Coates VS Deer Park Basketball Game

The last day to buy presale tickets and concessions for our March 8th staff basketball game vs. Deer Park ES will be Monday March 4th. Please use the link to order and pay with PayPal.

**Don’t forget-ALL students must have an adult with them, there are no drop offs so be sure to include at least 1 adult in your ticket purchases if you have not already!**

Tickets and concessions will also be available to buy on the night of the game at Westfield High School starting at 6:30pm. We hope to see you there! Go Stars!  

National School Social Work Week

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

We appreciate our Coates Social Worker, Mrs. Grady!  Thanks for all you do to support our students!

National Women’s History Month

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

Read Across America Day

Read Across America Day was established by the National Education Association (NEA) in 1998 to help get kids excited about reading. Learn more about Equitable Access to Literacy in this video. 

💜 Purple Up! on April 17 to Support Military Families

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is gearing up to honor and celebrate its military-connected youth in April, the Month of the Military Child and on Purple Up! Day! 

This year, Virginia will celebrate Purple Up! Day on Wednesday, April 17. Purple Up! Day is a special day for communities to come together and wear purple as a visible gesture of support for our military-connected youth and their families. Purple symbolizes the combined colors of all branches of the military.

FCPS Purple Up! t-shirts are available for purchase now through Friday, March 8th, 2024 here.   The shirts highlight our gratitude and appreciation for our 14,000 military-connected students and their families. #PurpleUpFCPS! 

For more information and/or to connect with FCPS resources, email at [email protected]

🖍️ 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. Our school typically conducts kindergarten registration events, including orientation, in the spring during May. Eligible children can also be registered throughout the summer, but registering your child early helps us plan, so that we have the teachers and resources needed on the first day of school. 

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

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 Read Across America Day

5th- School Planning Day- Student Holiday

8th- Coates vs. Deer Park Basketball Game at Westfield HS-7pm

11th- First Full Day of Ramadan

13th- Upper (4-6) Family Math Night- 6-7pm

14th- Book Fair Family Night- 5:30-7:30pm

17th- St. Patrick's Day

19th- First Day of Spring

22nd- End of 3rd Quarter- 2 hour early release for students-2pm

25th-29th- Spring Break- No School

29th- Good Friday

30th- Easter

 

*The full FCPS 2023-2024 calendar can be accessed here.

Follow Coates on Social Media

FACEBOOK: FCPS L.L. Coates Elementary School

FACEBOOK (PTA): L.L. Coates Elementary PTA

X (Formerly Twitter): @CoatesES

L.L. Coates Website: https://coateses.fcps.edu/

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.

Shining Star Shoutouts

Congrats to our Shining Star Shoutout students for the past couple weeks.  Some of these students are pictured above.  The students recognized for demonstrating what it means to be a Shining Star this week are:

Kindergarten:

Luke Hephner (Responsible)

Alaya Thaxton (Responsible)

Shreyas Madhavapeddi (Responsible)

2nd Grade:

Azari Thaxton (Responsible)

Abhisheka Saravanan (Ready to Shine)

Aradhana Saravanan (Ready to Shine)

Ajeet Basati (Responsible)

3rd Grade:

Sajed Taher (Respectful)

4th Grade:

Sintete Kefa (Responsible)

Hansuja Sai Sadineni (Respectful)

Dithvika Chowdary Challagulla (Ready to Shine)

5th Grade:

Emma Murphy (Responsible)

Aylah Mack (Ready to Shine)

Trinity Brown (Ready to Shine)

Veer Sharma (Responsible)

Yusra Suliman Khaliqi (Respectful)

Taevon Jones (Ready to Shine)

Sonya Rahmani (Respectful)

Mohammad Jalai (Respectful)

Mustafa Ibrahimi (Respectful)

Congrats Mrs. Karrar!

Congratulations to our fabulous instructional assistant Salma Karrar for being recognized as the outstanding support employee for the whole Westfield pyramid! Your hard work and dedication are appreciated!!

Join Us for Primary Math Night!

RSVP with this website.

Who: Parents come with your kindergartener, first grader, second grader or third grader to play math games. 

Parents must stay with your child.

What: Play cool math games at Coates

Where: Coates ES gym and cafeteria

When: February 28th from 6:00 pm-7:00 pm

Why: To play some math games and have fun with your child!

Coates VS Deer Park Basketball Game

The last day to buy presale tickets and concessions for our March 8th staff basketball game vs. Deer Park ES will be Monday March 1st. Please use the link to order and pay with PayPal.

**Don’t forget-ALL students must have an adult with them, there are no drop offs so be sure to include at least 1 adult in your ticket purchases if you have not already!**

Tickets and concessions will also be available to buy on the night of the game at Westfield High School starting at 6:30pm. We hope to see you there! Go Stars!  

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

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- Primary (K-3) Family Math Night- 6-7pm

29th- Leap Day

2nd- National Read Across America Day

5th- School Planning Day- Student Holiday

11th- First Full Day of Ramadan

13th- Upper (4-6) Family Math Night- 6-7pm

14th- Book Fair Family Night- 5:30-7:30pm

17th- St. Patrick's Day

19th- First Day of Spring

22nd- End of 3rd Quarter- 2 hour early release for students- 2pm

25th-29th- Spring Break- No School

29th- Good Friday

30th- Easter

 

*The full FCPS 2023-2024 calendar can be accessed here.

Follow Coates on Social Media

FACEBOOK: FCPS L.L. Coates Elementary School

FACEBOOK (PTA): L.L. Coates Elementary PTA

X (Formerly Twitter): @CoatesES

L.L. Coates Website: https://coateses.fcps.edu/

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.

Shining Star Shoutouts

Starting this quarter, we will be recognizing students who receive a Shining Star Shoutout in News You Choose.  Shining Star Shoutouts are a way our staff can recognize students for demonstrating "Respectful, Responsible, or Ready to Shine" behavior. These students are some of our students who demonstrated one or more of these attributes during the first or second quarters of school.  

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

Join us at Launch for a Fundraiser on Feb. 23rd! Join Us for Primary Math Night!

RSVP with this website.

Who: Parents come with your kindergartener, first grader, second grader or third grader to play math games. 

Parents must stay with your child.

What: Play cool math games at Coates

Where: Coates ES gym and cafeteria

When: February 28th from 6:00 pm-7:00 pm

Why: To play some math games and have fun with your child!

Google Form Link:https://forms.gle/BhyTu6sgbeoSjehnh36

🧸 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 caregiver must be present), the student will be ready for orientation, Bridge to Kindergarten, or any other introductory events each school may host. Read more about the registration process.

💻 Try Online Registration

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

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

Real Food for Kids Culinary Challenge

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

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

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

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

Fairfax County Science and Engineering Fair Open House

Members of the general public are invited to attend the science fair open house at Robinson Secondary School on Sunday, March 17, 1-3 p.m.

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

19th- Presidents Day- No Day

22nd- School Bus Driver Appreciation Week

28th- Primary (K-3) Family Math Night- 6-7pm

29th- Leap Day

2nd- National Read Across America Day

5th- School Planning Day- Student Holiday

11th- First Full Day of Ramadan

13th- Upper (4-6) Family Math Night- 6-7pm

14th- Book Fair Family Night- 5:30-7:30pm

17th- St. Patrick's Day

19th- First Day of Spring

22nd- End of 3rd Quarter- 2 hour early release for students- 2pm

25th-29th- Spring Break- No School

29th- Good Friday

30th- Easter

 

*The full FCPS 2023-2024 calendar can be accessed here.

Follow Coates on Social Media

FACEBOOK: FCPS L.L. Coates Elementary School

FACEBOOK (PTA): L.L. Coates Elementary PTA

X (Formerly Twitter): @CoatesES

L.L. Coates Website: https://coateses.fcps.edu/

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.

❤️Thank You Ms. Lady!

At last night's school board meeting, our new school board member, Robyn Lady, advocated for a Coates ES boundary study to address the rapid growth and overcrowding we have been managing over the last couple of years.  With her support, the motion passed with a 9-0-3 vote from the FCPS school board.  We appreciate her continued support as we navigate this ongoing matter.  

Ms. Lady represents the Drainsville District which includes Coates ES.  For more information about Ms. Lady, please click on this link.

Virginia School Board Appreciation Month

Thank you to the Fairfax County School Board for all they do throughout the year: hiring and evaluating the superintendent; reviewing and approving the FCPS budget, calendar, policies, and more! Want to contact your school board representatives to share your appreciation? Visit their website to find your school board member and contact them.

Coates Spelling Bee 2024 🐝

Our Coates Spelling Bee was held on Thursday, February 8th.  The Champion, Ajeet Basati, will represent Coates in the Fairfax County Spelling Bee on March 17th, 2024. 

Our top three are:

Champion: Ajeet Basati

1st Runner Up: Davud Urakov

2nd Runner Up: Adhrit Gudipati

Special thanks to our Coates PTA and staff sponsor, Neha Raval, for making this yearly event a success!

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

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

Join us at Launch for a Fundraiser on Feb. 23rd!

Google Form Link:https://forms.gle/BhyTu6sgbeoSjehnh36

Tutor.com Teacher-Referred Tutoring

Through Schoology®, all FCPS students have 24/7 access to no-cost, year-round, on-demand, 1-to-1 tutoring services through Tutor.com.

A new Teacher-Referred Tutoring program feature provides targeted support and extends student learning. Teachers can now refer students for tutoring, with their specific needs already identified. Students can get extra support — on their own schedule — and reinforce their in-class learning.

Caregivers can guide students to access expert tutoring, homework help, and writing support by clicking on the Tutor.com icon in their Schoology portal—anytime, anywhere.

Plus, look for teachers’ tutoring session referrals on the Tutor.com homepage.

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

FCPS funds the use of Lexia for all elementary and middle schools to use as part of their literacy instruction. Lexia is a computer-based program that supplements classroom instruction to help students develop literacy skills. It also provides teachers with data to identify students who need additional support, and the ability to know which specific concepts and skills to prioritize.Attend an information night on Monday, February 12, at 6:30 p.m., at Thoreau Middle School. Parents/caregivers will learn more about Lexia, and how FCPS is integrating it into the classroom and supporting student growth in reading. Attendees will also get tips for supporting their students at home.

Register to attend or submit a question in advance. Unable to attend in person? Join on Zoom. 

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

🥁 Sign Up for FCPS Summer Camps

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

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

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

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- Lunar New Year

13th- PTA Meeting- 6-6:30pm

14th- Valentine's Day & Ash Wednesday

19th- Presidents Day- No Day

22nd- School Bus Driver Appreciation Week

28th- Primary (K-3) Family Math Night- 6-7pm

29th- Leap Day

2nd- National Read Across America Day

5th- School Planning Day- Student Holiday

11th- First Full Day of Ramadan

13th- Upper (4-6) Family Math Night- 6-7pm

14th- Book Fair Family Night- 5:30-7:30pm

17th- St. Patrick's Day

19th- First Day of Spring

22nd- End of 3rd Quarter- 2 hour early release for students- 2pm

25th-29th- Spring Break- No School

29th- Good Friday

30th- Easter

 

*The full FCPS 2023-2024 calendar can be accessed here.

Follow Coates on Social Media

FACEBOOK: FCPS L.L. Coates Elementary School

FACEBOOK (PTA): L.L. Coates Elementary PTA

X (Formerly Twitter): @CoatesES

L.L. Coates Website: https://coateses.fcps.edu/

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.

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 5-9 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. Learn more about the role of school counselors in FCPS.

We appreciate our Coates Counselors, Mrs. Allen, Mrs. Eagan, and Ms. Young!  Thanks for all you do to support our students!

Google Form Link:https://forms.gle/BhyTu6sgbeoSjehnh36

🚍 Here Comes the Bus

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

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

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

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

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

Registration Links: CBC Registration-Link to gscnc.org (jotform.com)

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

5th-9th- National School Counseling Week

7th- Crossing Guard Appreciation Day

8th- 100th Day of School

8th- Coates Spelling Bee- 6-8pm

10th- Lunar New Year

13th- PTA Meeting- 6-6:30pm

14th- Valentine's Day & Ash Wednesday

19th- Presidents Day- No Day

22nd- School Bus Driver Appreciation Week

28th- Primary (K-3) Family Math Night- 6-7pm

29th- Leap Day

 

*The full FCPS 2023-2024 calendar can be accessed here.

Follow Coates on Social Media

FACEBOOK: FCPS L.L. Coates Elementary School

FACEBOOK (PTA): L.L. Coates Elementary PTA

X (Formerly Twitter): @CoatesES

L.L. Coates Website: https://coateses.fcps.edu/

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.

Coates Elementary vs. Deer Park Elementary Staff Basketball Game

Come cheer for our Coates teachers and staff as they challenge the staff of Deer Park Elementary in a friendly game of basketball.     

March 8, 2024 at Westfield High School at 6:30 pm

More details to follow.  Make sure to check out our spirt wear for free adminission.

Last Chance! Order Spirit Wear by Jan. 31st!

Store Link: https://zerolimitlifestyle.tuosystems.com/stores/coates

Free Online Tutoring Stay Healthy & Learn More

Do what you can to keep your children healthy. Dress them warmly for the cold weather and make sure they’ve got hats and gloves. Encourage them to wash their hands regularly and send them to school with a bottle of hand sanitizer.

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

5th-9th- National School Counseling Week

7th- Crossing Guard Appreciation Day

8th- 100th Day of School

8th- Coates Spelling Bee- 6-8pm

10th- Lunar New Year

13th- PTA Meeting- 6-6:30pm

14th- Valentine's Day & Ash Wednesday

19th- Presidents Day- No Day

22nd- School Bus Driver Appreciation Week

28th- Primary (K-2) Family Math Night- 6-7pm

29th- Leap Day

 

*The full FCPS 2023-2024 calendar can be accessed here.

Follow Coates on Social Media

FACEBOOK: FCPS L.L. Coates Elementary School

FACEBOOK (PTA): L.L. Coates Elementary PTA

X (Formerly Twitter): @CoatesES

L.L. Coates Website: https://coateses.fcps.edu/

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.

Coates PTA Needs Your Help!

PTA is looking for Parent Volunteers for our upcoming 2024 School community Events. Please sign-up here.

- Annual Spelling Bee: 2/8/24 6-9pm

- Spirit Night: Herndon Launch Trampoline Park 2/23/24 4-8pm

- 2nd Annual Staff Basketball Game: 3/8/24 6-9pm

- International Night 4/26/24 (tentative date): 6-8pm

- Teacher Appreciation May 6-10, 2024 

- Game Night:  6/7/24 6-8pm

Save the Date: Coates Elementary vs. Deer Park Elementary Staff Basketball Game

Come cheer for our Coates teachers and staff as they challenge the staff of Deer Park Elementary in a friendly game of basketball.     

March 8, 2024 at Westfield High School at 6:30 pm

More details to follow.  Make sure to check out our spirt wear for free adminission.

Order Coates Spirit Wear before January 31st!

Store Link: https://zerolimitlifestyle.tuosystems.com/stores/coates

End of 2nd Quarter & Teacher Workday

Quarter End, Early Release, and Student HolidayThursday, January 25, is the last day of the quarter and a two-hour early release for students. Also, schools are closed for students on Friday, January 26, for a teacher work day. See the complete school year calendar.

Mark Your Calendar

25th- End of 2nd Quarter- 2 hour early release

26th- Teacher Work Day- No school for students

5th-9th- National School Counseling Week

6th- 100th Day of School

7th- Crossing Guard Appreciation Day

8th- Coates Spelling Bee- 6-8pm

10th- Lunar New Year

14th- Valentine's Day & Ash Wednesday

19th- Presidents Day- No Day

22nd- School Bus Driver Appreciation Week

29th- Leap Day

 

*The full FCPS 2023-2024 calendar can be accessed here.

Follow Coates on Social Media

FACEBOOK: FCPS L.L. Coates Elementary School

FACEBOOK (PTA): L.L. Coates Elementary PTA

X (Formerly Twitter): @CoatesES

L.L. Coates Website: https://coateses.fcps.edu/

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