FCPS

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Full-Time AAP Referrals Due

Referrals for full time advanced academic services are due Friday, December 15, 2023. If you would like to refer your student for full time advanced academic services in FCPS please go to this website. From there you will look for the full-time referral form (translated into 7 different languages!). Once you have completed all boxes on the form, please turn a copy in to Mrs. Hunter. A printed copy can be handed into the front office. A digital pdf or jpeg file can be emailed to Mrs. Hunter at [email protected]

Outstanding Staff Members

Mrs. Turner, 2nd grade teacher,has been recognized as Coates Elementary’s Outstanding Teacher of the Year!  We are so grateful to have her at Coates!

Mrs. ElsaidKarrar has been recognized as Coates Elementary’s Outstanding Operational Employee of the Year!  We are so grateful to have her at Coates!

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 Thursday, December 7. That day will be a half-O day, and major events cannot be scheduled that evening. Learn more about Chanukah in National Geographic Kids. See the complete school year calendar.

Bodhi Day, Friday, 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. The school calendar recognizes many religious and cultural observances (O days) during the school year, including Bodhi Day. There is school on these days, however, the School Board has directed that tests, quizzes, field trips, graduation, homecoming, or FCPS-scheduled athletic events will not be held on these observance days.Learn more about Bodhi Day in this video from the Miami Children’s Museum. See the complete school year calendar.

We have accrued a lot of items in our Lost & Found in the cafeteria.  If you see anything in the pictures or your child is missing something, please have them check in the lost and found area.  These items are being donated over winter break so please claim them before they are donated.

Snow Days This Winter

For the current school year, FCPS will be returning to its previous procedure for snow days — there will be no virtual learning days when school is closed due to bad weather. 

During snow days, students may still access Tutor.com, complete any supplemental learning opportunities recommended by their teachers, and view educational programming (available virtually and on public access television channels):

• Elementary school instruction: Red Apple 21.
• Middle school instruction: Channel 25.  
• High school instruction: Channel 99.

Eleven snow days are built into the existing FCPS calendar. Eliminating virtual learning days will allow us to maximize students’ in-person learning and provide equitable access to instruction and student services.

🙋‍♂️ Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!

We often notice more empty seats in our classrooms as winter break approaches. This year, let's work together to nurture a rock-solid attendance habit. Every hour of every school day is a unique opportunity for students to learn, connect, and grow. 

A big thank you to:

• 🌟 Students who show up every day and the parents/caregivers supporting them.
• 👩‍🏫 Teachers who create a welcoming environment for learning.
• 👨‍💼 Administrators providing a safe and engaging place to grow.
• 👏 Bus drivers, support staff, and volunteers lending a helping hand to all our learners.

If you or your child need support, please reach out to our school social worker or family liaison. If your child is not feeling well, please refer to the When Should I Keep My Child Home? webpage for guidance.

There will be no school from Monday, December 18, to Monday, January 1, 2024, for winter break. Classes will resume on Tuesday, January 2. 

Visit FCPS’ website for more attendance resources.

📝 Keep Learning Over Winter Break with Tutor.com

FCPS students have unlimited access, 24/7, to online tutoring support services through Tutor.com at no cost to families. Students can connect online any time, any place, and in most K-12 subjects for however long they need.

🍲 Food Insecurity Resources for Families

Food insecurity impacts more than 60,000 Fairfax County residents. There are many resources available to support those who need food assistance. Find out how to receive or offer support on the Fairfax County website, or view their Human Services Resource Guide for assistance with food, clothing, housing, and other services.

Mark Your Calendar

8th- Family Movie Night- 6:30-8pm

14th- AAP Referral Deadline

14th- Winter Chorus Concert- 6-7pm

18th-Jan.1st- Winter Break

1st- New Years Day- No School

3rd & 4th- VGA Math Test- Gr. 3rd-6th

10th- PTA Meeting- 6-6:30pm & New Family Orientation 6:30-7:30pm

15th- Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day- No School

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

26th- Teacher Work Day- No school for students

 

*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

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What's Happening at Coates?

We have accrued a lot of items in our Lost & Found in the cafeteria.  If you see anything in the pictures or your child is missing something, please have them check in the lost and found area.  These items are being donated over winter break so please claim them before they are donated.

National Special Education Day is recognized each year on Dec. 2 and commemorates President Gerald Ford’s signing of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) in 1975. We celebrate our teachers and staff who serve and support our students with special needs, as well as our families who are partners in the education and support of those students! 

Learn more about the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.

Special Education Resources for Families

Fairfax County Public Schools has the following resources available to help assist families of students with special needs. 

• The Office of Special Education Procedural Support helps staff, families, and students with the implementation of and compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, as amended. 

• The Family Resource Center (FRC) offers free webinars, consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities. Sign up for their newsletter. Contact the FRC at [email protected] or call 703-204-2941.

• Kathy Murphy, the assistant ombuds for special education, provides information and support to caregivers and students regarding special education and Section 504 services. Contact the Ombuds Office by submitting a question, calling 571-423-4014, or emailing [email protected]. 

Additionally, the Virginia Department of Education has updated the Virginia Family's Guide to Special Education. This state guide was developed to help those involved in special education including families, teachers, school administrators, advocates, and  students.

Laptops & Chargers

Please be sure to remind your child to bring their laptop and charger to school each day.  We frequently have students who forget to bring their charger or laptop with them to school impacting their access to materials and resources. 

Social and Emotional Learning Screener Results Coming Soon

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 lessons, 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 student’s results or ideas to support them at home, review this Family Guide or contact your child’s school.

❄️ 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 plan for childcare if needed.

🌏 World Languages Offerings in Elementary Schools Survey

Fairfax County Public Schools is considering expansion of our Dual Language Immersion programs to include new languages and school sites, as well as an expansion of new languages for our Foreign Language in the Elementary Schools program.

Parents/caregivers, please share your thoughts about expanding World Languages elementary program offerings. An FCPS survey is available in English, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, Korean, Urdu, and Vietnamese. It should take less than 10 minutes to complete, and all responses are anonymous. The survey is optional and will close on Friday, December 8.

Mark Your Calendar

4th-10th- Computer Science Education Week

5th-9th- Inclusive Schools Week

5th- 4th & 6th grade Reading VGA

6th- 3rd & 5th grade Reading VGA

7th-15th- Chanukah

8th- Bodhi Day

8th- Family Movie Night- 6:30-8pm

14th- AAP Referral Deadline

14th- Winter Chorus Concert- 6-7pm

18th-Jan.1st- Winter Break

 

*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

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Schools and offices will be closed November 22-24. Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving! Classes will resume on Monday, November 27. Learn more about the first Thanksgiving. See the complete school year calendar.

Kiss & Ride Reminders

Hello Coates Family!

We hope your students are enjoying the last few days before Thanksgiving break! To ensure the safety and timeliness of our students, we ask that parents/guardians review some of our Kiss & Ride procedures.

• Drivers are expected to drive slowly and pay attention. Please obey all signs and staff direction.
• Phones usage is strictly prohibited. Phones should not be in hand while driving or waiting in line.
• Passing another vehicle anywhere in the Kiss & Ride line is strictly prohibited. Staff will direct cars, if needed.
• Please drop off only at the numbered cones and pull forward to avoid gaps in the line.
• Non-student passengers need to remain in the vehicle. Staff will help students to open doors and retrieve larger items such as instruments. Please notify a staff member if there is an extenuating circumstance.
• Students should only exit the vehicle on the right (passenger) side. 
• Please have your student(s) ready to exit the vehicle promptly at the numbered cones.
• Kiss & Ride will end promptly at 9:15 AM. If your student arrives after the 9:15 AM bell please park, walk your student to the office, and sign them in.

Our staff appreciate your patience and kindness during Kiss & Ride. Thank you for helping to keep our students safe!

Staying Healthy This Cold/Flu Season

Cases of RSV, the flu, and other viruses often rise this time of year. It is important for students to wash their hands regularly and cover their coughs and sneezes. Please monitor your child’s health daily and keep them at home if they are sick. Visit FCPS' Health and Safety Guidance webpage for more tips.

🙋 Student Attendance and Engagement

During the Academic Matters segment of the November 9 School Board meeting, Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid discussed student attendance and engagement. Attendance and absenteeism rates are one measure for Goal 2 of our 2023-30 Strategic Plan. 

Chronic absenteeism — which is defined as a student missing 10% or more of school for any reason — is a concern across Virginia school districts. Although FCPS continues to outperform the state average in attendance rates, we are tracking chronic absenteeism closely.

Data shows that:

• Missing just 10% of school — just two days a month — negatively affects a student’s academic performance. 
• Only 17% of students who were chronically absent in both kindergarten and first grade were reading proficiently in third grade, compared to 64% of those with good attendance.
• Students who fail to read at grade level by the end of third grade are four times more likely than students who achieve proficiency to drop out of high school.
• By sixth grade, chronic absenteeism becomes a leading indicator that a student will drop out of high school.

Attendance is critical for academic success!

Missing School Over the Holidays

Looking ahead to the holiday season, if missing school is unavoidable, please speak with your child’s teachers in advance to create a plan for making up missed work. However, a homework packet cannot make up for the interaction and learning that happens in the classroom.

Visit FCPS’ website for more attendance resources.

📚 Community Review of Elementary English Language Arts Basal Instructional Resources

FCPS will adopt new Elementary School Language Arts Basal Instructional Resources for the 2024-25 school year. Public review of the recommended materials is part of the process for selecting new resources. 

You may access the resources in person and online from Wednesday, November 15, until Friday, December 15, at noon. Digital materials for public review and comment will be available on the Elementary Language Arts Basal Resource Review webpage. Those reviewing instructional materials may complete an electronic comment sheet that will be available on the webpage during the review period. 

Visit FCPS' website for instructions on how to view hard copies of the instructional materials at Pimmit Hills Center. The Elementary Language Arts team will be there to answer questions Friday, December 1, 4-8 p.m., and Saturday, December 2, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. 

All community feedback will be shared with the review committee and School Board.

💻 How to Access Free Resources from Tutor.com

All FCPS students continue to have unlimited access to live, 24/7, one-on-one online tutoring services through Tutor.com at no cost to families. Get more information on the Tutor.com Online Tutoring Services webpage.

Students can access Tutor.com via a link in Schoology. Additional information about how to log in and access a tutor is provided to families via the following: Elementary - How It Works and Middle & High - How It Works

Mark Your Calendar

22nd-24th- Thanksgiving Break- Student Holiday

28th- Make-up Picture Day

7th- Hanukkah

8th- Bodhi Day

8th- Family Movie Night- 6:30-8pm

14th- AAP Referral Deadline

14th- Winter Chorus Concert- 6-7pm

18th-Jan.1st- Winter Break

 

*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

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Veterans Day provides a great reason to pause, reflect, and recognize the extraordinary sacrifices our Veterans and their families have made on our behalf, and we thank them for their service. Learn more about the history of Veterans Day at va.gov.

Happy Diwali to all those who celebrate this day and the victory of light over darkness. This year's Diwali artwork was created by Chantilly High School student Rijuta D. as part of the FCPS Observance Design Challenge for Students.

Lunch Dance Party- November 17th

We will be having a dance party during student lunches on Friday, November 17th.  During this event, students are encouraged to bring in beach towels or small blankets to sit on during lunch so they eat "picnic style" with their friends. 

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 Thursday, November 16th!

• 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 Amy Marney at [email protected].

Federal Impact Aid Survey: Now Online

FCPS is asking all families to fill out a Federal Impact Aid Survey. To make it easier, the form is now available online in SIS ParentVUE. 

Completing this form for each school-aged child in every household is important because information from this survey results in an additional $3 million in grants each year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

For families that do not have access to ParentVUE or prefer to complete a paper form, a printed form has been provided by the school in the November 2nd Thursday folders.

Once logged in to SIS ParentVUE, click “Online Packets” in the top right corner. Then, select “Federal Impact Aid Survey.” Get more information.

Need to Register for ParentVUE? 

Learn how to activate your SISParentVUE account, so you can easily submit your survey. Find out how to get technical support for ParentVUE.

Reminder: Window for Full-time AAP Referrals Closes on December 15, 2023

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 (Level IV) Referral Form to  Mrs. Hunter no later than December 15, 2023. 

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 Mrs. Hunter at [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.

FLE Parent Preview

Parents can preview the Family Life Education lessons that are taught within the FCPS school system. There are several ways to preview the materials. 

• Online- Parents can find  the FCPS Family Life Education detailed grade-level program descriptions at http://www.fcps.edu/is/hpe/fle.shtml.
• The FLE curriculum can also be previewed through your Coates Parent Schoology Course.

Unsure How to View the Materials In Schoology?

• There will be a Parent Preview time in the Coates library on November 17, 5:30-6:00pm (right before the PTA meeting at 6:00pm). The program materials and media for all grade levels will be available for your review at this time. There is no presentation at the preview time. It is just another preview possibility.  
• Parents/guardians who do not wish to have their child participate in FLE instruction may choose to opt their child out of any or all of the lessons. If you would like to opt your child out of one or more lessons, please fill out the form accessed here:  http://www.fcps.edu/is/hpe/fle.shtml. These forms were also sent home in Thursday folders.

💻 How to Access Free Resources from Tutor.com

All FCPS students continue to have unlimited access to live, 24/7, one-on-one online tutoring services through Tutor.com at no cost to families. Get more information on the Tutor.com Online Tutoring Services webpage.

Students can access Tutor.com via a link in Schoology. Additional information about how to log in and access a tutor is provided to families via the following: Elementary - How It Works and Middle & High - How It Works

Coping Strategies for Anxiety, Depression, and Stress: A Two-Part Series

Join Dr. Erin Berman, a Clinical Psychologist at the National Institute of Mental Health in Bethesda, Maryland for these important sessions to help children cope with anxiety, depression, and stress.

Part 2 Highlights:

• Identify stress in children of all ages
• Explain common sources of stress
• Provide strategies for lowering stress levels so that all caregivers can benefit

NEW DATE Part 2: 12/12/23 10-11:30 a.m Share this event with others.

Register for Coping Strategies for Anxiety, Depression, and Stress: A Two-Part Series

Mark Your Calendar

11th- Veteran's Day

12th- Diwali

15th- Family Thanksgiving Luncheon

16th- Progress Reports go home in Thursday Folders

17th- FLE Parent Preview Meeting- 5:30-6pm- Library

17th- PTA Meetings- 6-6:30pm- Library

17th- Bingo Night- 6:30-8pm

22nd-24th- Thanksgiving Break- Student Holiday

28th- Make up Picture 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.

Daylight Saving Time Ends (Fall Back)

This Sunday, November 5, at 2 a.m., daylight saving time ends. Don’t forget to move your clocks back one hour! 

Let's all wear red, white, and blue on Friday, November 10th in honor of Veterans Day.  We'd love to see your patriotic spirit!  Share photos of your family in red, white, and blue and connect with other families on:

👉 Facebook:  Tag the Coates Facebook account (find and follow us here!: https://www.facebook.com/coateselementary).   

👉 Twitter: Tag the Coates Twitter account (find and follow us here!: https://twitter.com/CoatesES)

We can't wait to see your patriotic pictures! 

National School Psychology Week

This week we celebrate the important work school psychologists do to help all students thrive. At Coates, we are lucky to have Ms. Rohani as our school psychologist. This is Ms. Rohani's first year at Coates and we appreciate all she does to help support our school community.  Thanks Ms. Rohani!

Learn more from the National Association of School Psychologists. 

Cool Weather Reminder

It's getting cooler outside!  Please remember to send a jacket or coat with your child each day so they can stay warm during recess.  If you are in need of a jacket or coat for your child and are experiencing a hardship, please contact our Family Liaison, Solangie McPherson at [email protected].

Lost and Found

If your child lost it, we probably found it!  We have accumulated a lot of items in our school lost and found located in the school cafeteria.  Please have your child look for their items there.  If you want to come look for yourself, please come to the office 8:30-9am or 4-4:30pm and ask to be directd to the lost and found area.  All items will be cleared out over winter break.

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 Thursday, November 16th!

• 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 Amy Marney at [email protected].

Classroom Monitors Needed

Coates is seeking individuals to serve as classroom monitors. Classroom monitors provide in-person classroom assistance for students when a staff member remains virtual. Candidates who are interested in a position or would like more information can review the job description and qualifications and apply online here. You can send inquiries or resumes to Ms. Hinkson at [email protected].

Mark Your Calendar

3rd- End of First Quarter- 2 hour early release

6th-10th- School Psychologist Week

6th- Student Holiday (School Planning Day)

7th- Student Holiday (Election Day)

11th- Veteran's Day

12th- Diwali

15th- Family Thanksgiving Luncheon

16th- Progress Reports go home in Thursday Folders

17th- FLE Parent Preview Meeting- 5:30-6pm- Library

17th- PTA Meetings- 6-6:30pm- Library

17th- Bingo Night- 6:30-8pm

22nd-24th- Thanksgiving Break- Student Holiday

28th- Make up Picture Day

30th- FLE Parent Preview Night- 5:30-6pm

 

*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.

Tomorrow is Fall Festival! Classroom Monitors Needed

Coates is seeking individuals to serve as classroom monitors. Classroom monitors provide in-person classroom assistance for students when a staff member remains virtual. Candidates who are interested in a position or would like more information can review the job description and qualifications and apply online here. You can send inquiries or resumes to Ms. Hinkson at [email protected].

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.

Tips to Help Keep Children Safe

The Fairfax County Police Department (FCPD) reminds parents and caregivers that it’s important to talk to your children about safety topics including:

• What parents should know about their children’s plans.
• Having a meeting spot in case of getting separated.
• Establishing safe areas. 
• What to do if you are followed.

Visit the FCPD website for more details on how to discuss safety topics.

Mark Your Calendar

28th- Fall Festival- 10am-2pm

3rd- End of First Quarter- 2 hour early release

6th- Student Holiday (School Planning Day)

7th- Student Holiday (Election Day)

17th- FLE Parent Preview Meeting- 5:30-6pm- Library

17th- PTA Meetings- 6-6:30pm- Library

17th- Bingo Night- 6:30-8pm

22nd-24th- Thanksgiving Break- Student Holiday

28th- Make up Picture Day

30th- FLE Parent Preview Night- 5:30-6pm

 

*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

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Dyslexia Open House

FCPS will host a Dyslexia Open House on Thursday, October 26, 4-6 p.m., at 8270 Willow Oaks Corporate Drive, Fairfax, Virginia. This event is open to families and staff members who would like to learn more about dyslexia and how FCPS supports students with dyslexia.

For the first hour, participants will have the opportunity to visit tables set up with information from a variety of FCPS offices including the Office of the Ombuds, Office of School Psychology, and the Office of Special Education Instruction. During the second hour, speakers will address the importance of dyslexia awareness and how you can support your student with dyslexia. Please register in advance.

Federal Impact Aid Form Now Available

The Federal Impact Aid Survey is now available electronically to all families through their SIS ParentVUE account.  A completed survey is required for each school-age child in every household.  Survey results help fund our schools. 

🔗Step-by-step directions for accessing this form🔗

 

What's the Importance of the Impact Aid Form?

The federal presence in our area and the significant tax exemptions available to federally connected personnel, businesses, and agencies has qualified Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) to be eligible for federal Impact Aid grants.

Impact Aid programs and grants are designed to assist local school districts that enroll federally connected students. The grants from these programs will become part of FCPS' general operating budget and are critical to ensuring that all children in FCPS receive an excellent education. FCPS anticipates receiving approximately $3,000,000 in Impact Aid funds.

FCPS uses the Student-Parent Survey for Federal Impact Aid to identify federally connected students and to support our request for Impact Aid resources. In October, the survey will be made available to FCPS families online through ParentVue for two weeks. After that, families who have not completed the survey will have a printed copy sent home with each child. 

FCPS staff will process the information with the utmost confidentiality.

For questions regarding the Student-Parent Survey for Federal Impact Aid, please call 703-329-7750 or email [email protected].  Additional information about Impact Aid programs and grants is available on the U.S. Department of Education's website at DoED Impact Aid Programs.

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. 

Mark Your Calendar

23rd- Fall Picture Day

28th- Fall Festival- 10am-2pm

3rd- End of First Quarter- 2 hour early release

6th- Student Holiday (School Planning Day)

7th- Student Holiday (Election Day)

17th- FLE Parent Preview Meeting- 5:30-6pm- Library

17th- PTA Meetings- 6-6:30pm- Library

17th- Bingo Night- 6:30-8pm

22nd-24th- Thanksgiving Break- Student Holiday

28th- Make up Picture Day

30th- FLE Parent Preview Night- 5:30-6pm

 

*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 Meeting Tonight

Coates will be having our AAP Level IV Full-Time Referral Information Night tonight at 5:30pm followed by our PTA meeting.  

 

We look forward to seeing parents!

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.

Last year, Mr. Feeley’s class wrote letters to the 119th Squadron, in which his sister is a part of, thanking them for their service for our country. In honor of them and the school, Captain Erin Feeley of the United States Airforce flew a flag for Lutie Lewis Coates Elementary School on a mission overseas!  This week, she returned from her deployment and presented them and the school the flag and a certificate stating that the flag flew on a mission. Mr. Feeley's former students were excited to meet someone they wrote letters to and ask her questions about what it is like to serve in the military and thank her for her service!

Fall Pictures- Oct. 23rd

Picture Day is coming soon!  You can order and pay for pictures online by going to www.strawbridge.net.  Click on "Order Pictures or Yearbooks" and enter the code: FM435063

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.

Student Lounge Donation: Video Game Consoles

We are planning to open up a Student Lounge to provide an incentive for some of our students who are recognized for positive behaviors in school.  This idea was born out of the Creativity Lab last year when a few students developed a proposal for a “Chill Room”. 

We are outfitting this room w/ some board games, card games, and even video games.  If you have any video game consoles (or other games) that you would like to donate, we are very happy to provide you w/ a donation letter for a tax write-off.   Please just label the donation with your name and estimated value and bring them into school w/ your child.  We will email you a donation letter. 

Thanks for helping to support this new initiative!

Upcoming Solar Eclipses and How to View Them Safely

There will be an annular eclipse on Saturday, October 14. Virginia is not in the direct path of the moon’s shadow, so we will only be able to see a partial eclipse in this region. FCPS has gathered resources for students and families to learn more about the eclipse, and how to view it safely. 

Save the date for a more dramatic event! On Monday, April 8, 2024, a total eclipse will be viewable from North America.

Mark Your Calendar

16th-20th- Digital Citizenship Week

17th- AAP Level IV Full-Time Referral Information Night- 5:30-6pm

17th- PTA Meeting- 6-6:30pm

23rd- Fall Picture Day

28th- Fall Festival- 10am-2pm

3rd- End of First Quarter- 2 hour early release

6th- Student Holiday (School Planning Day)

7th- Student Holiday (Election Day)

17th- PTA Meetings- 6-6:30pm

17th- Bingo Night- 6:30-8pm

22nd-24th- Thanksgiving Break- Student Holiday

28th- Make up Picture Day

30th- FLE Parent Preview Night- 5:30-6pm

 

*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.

Indigenous Peoples' Day honors the histories, cultures, and contributions of Native peoples, past and present. This year, Monday, October 9, is a student holiday and staff development day. Learn more about Indigenous Peoples’ Day from the National Museum of the American Indian. See the complete school year calendar.

Student Lounge Donation: Video Game Consoles

We are planning to open up a Student Lounge to provide an incentive for some of our students who are recognized for positive behaviors in school.  This idea was born out of the Creativity Lab last year when a few students developed a proposal for a “Chill Room”. 

We are outfitting this room w/ some board games, card games, and even video games.  If you have any video game consoles (or other games) that you would like to donate, we are very happy to provide you w/ a donation letter for a tax write-off.   Please just label the donation with your name and estimated value and bring them into school w/ your child.  We will email you a donation letter. 

Thanks for helping to support this new initiative!

6th Grade Counseling Update

From October 30th  through December 8th, sixth-grade students at Coates Elementary School will receive two lessons on the topic of sexual harassment.  These lessons seek to provide students with the necessary information, resources, and strategies to help prevent occurrences of sexual harassment as well as outline the steps to take if they feel they or their peers are targets of these behaviors.  In addition, the lessons share how schools support targeted students so that they can continue to focus on learning in an environment that feels comfortable and secure.  Parents/guardians may request to view these two lessons prior to deciding whether to opt their child(ren) out of the lessons. Please reach out to the school counselor for instructions on where to preview the lessons.

Parents/guardians may choose to opt their child out of the two sixth-grade lessons on the topic of sexual harassment.  Letters and the opt-out form went home and Friday, September 29th or will be in your student’s Thursday folder on October 5th that provide more information on how to opt your sixth-grade child out of the lessons about sexual harassment. 

Fall Pictures- Oct. 23rd

Picture Day is coming soon!  You can order and pay for pictures online by going to www.strawbridge.net.  Click on "Order Pictures or Yearbooks" and enter the code: FM435063

Mark Your Calendar

9th- Indigenous People Day- (student holiday- no school for students)

17th- PTA Meeting- 6-6:30pm

23rd- Fall Picture Day

28th- Fall Festival- 10am-2pm

 

*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.

Attendance Tip: Scheduling Family Trips or Events

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

When scheduling trips or family events, try to use weekends and school holidays, and refer to the FCPS Calendar when planning. Every day of learning is a day toward success. Keep in mind that absences add up quickly. Students who are 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 to their school. Most schools have links to their attendance email or notification systems on their homepages. If you are unsure how to report an absence, please call your school’s front office.

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

Our Schools, Our Future: Community Conversations Kick Off

Join Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid for Our Schools, Our Future: A Community Conversation. Share your thoughts about FCPS and bring your questions to:

• Glasgow Middle School on Tuesday, October 3, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
• Kilmer Middle School on Thursday, October 5, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
• Madison High School on Tuesday, October 24, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
• Location TBD on Wednesday, October 25, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Pre-registration for a Community Conversation is not required but will help us plan. Childcare and interpretation services will be provided for all events based on staff availability. 

Events are open to all. Find out about other opportunities to connect with Dr. Reid. Your voice matters! 

Social and Emotional Learning Screener Offered in October

One of the ways FCPS supports the mental wellness of all students is the SEL Screener.  

The screener is offered to all students in grades 3-12 in October and again in February or March. It addresses skills like 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. Screener data is used to create the learning, experiences, and environments students need to be successful. Key updates to the screener this year include:

• Different versions for students in grades 3-5 and 6-12. 
• Fewer topics with more questions to provide schools and families with more data to support planning. 
• Additional questions aligned with FCPS’ commitment to educational equity.  

SEL Screener results are sent to families via postal mail. Families who wish to opt their child out should complete the opt-out form in the Annual Notice packet or in SIS ParentVUE. 

For more information, please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage or contact your child’s school. 

Please note that the SEL Screener differs from the anonymous Fairfax County Youth Survey. 

Free COVID-19 Tests

Every U.S. household can place an order to receive four more free COVID-19 rapid tests delivered directly to their home.

Review health and safety guidance for schools to stay up to date on the best ways to prevent the spread of disease, and for information on when students should stay home from school.

Mark Your Calendar

2nd- National Custodian Appreciation Day

4th- National Walk to School Day

9th- Indigenous People Day- (student holiday- no school for students)

17th- PTA Meeting- 6-6:30pm

23rd- Fall Picture Day

28th- Fall Festival- 10am-2pm

 

*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.

September 25th- No School

All FCPS schools and offices will be closed on Monday, September 25, for Yom Kippur, the holiest day in Judaism. See the complete school year calendar. Learn more about Yom Kippur on Brittanica.com.

Welcome to Ms. Reihanifard, Art Teacher!

Please join us in welcoming our new art teacher, Afshid Reihanifard. Ms. Reihanifard holds two master's degrees in Industrial Design and Graphic Design. She is a former faculty member of Azad University, Tehran, Central Branch, with 18 years of experience educating master's and bachelor's degree students in the Industrial Design Department.

She is originally from Iran and lives with her daughter, who is a freshman in college. They moved here in 2015, and since then, she has been instructing Visual Art classes at various places like Loudoun County Public Libraries, Ida Lee Community Center in Leesburg, and Douglas Community Center in Loudoun County. She is so excited to join the Coates Family and share her experiences and learn from you all.

Counseling Corner

Next week’s Shining Star (mindfulness) Lessons, K-3 students will identify and recognize Red Zone feelings. Students in grades and  4-6 October monthly lesson focus will be understanding the purpose of the SEL screener and review vocabulary to understand terminology that will be on the screener.

Social Emotional Learning (SEL)

FCPS is committed to supporting all students’ mental wellness and social and emotional learning. FCPS approved a Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener that students use to share their perspectives on how well their school and community help them develop skills they need to succeed. These skills include achieving goals, understanding and managing emotions, establishing and maintaining relationships with adults and peers, and making responsible decisions. 

You can find out more information about the SEL screener and access to its contents by visiting the SEL in FCPS website here.

Opt out for SEL screener is on page 18 of the Annual Opt-out booklet:

2023-24_k-8_opt-outbooklet.pdf

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. There are solutions. 

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

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 Friday, September 29. 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.

Substitute and Instructional Assistant Hiring

Substitutes to Receive High-Volume Pay on High-Volume Days

The School Board has approved a list of 18 days for substitutes to receive high-volume pay. All teacher substitutes will receive their hourly pay plus an additional $80 for each high-volume day they work. See the list of high-volume days and more information. 

A bonus program for substitutes who accept more than the 10 required days has also been approved. Substitutes working 50 days within a school year, will earn a $200 bonus. Substitutes working 100 days within a school year, will earn a $300 bonus. Substitutes working 150 days within a school year, will earn a $400 bonus. Get more information on this sub bonus program. 

Make a SUBstantial Difference! 

FCPS is always looking for kind and caring substitute teachers. Weekly virtual substitute teacher information sessions are held each Wednesday from 2 to 3 p.m. Register for an upcoming session on Wednesday, September 27, and Wednesday, October 4. 

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

 

25th- Yom Kippur (student holiday- no school)

28th- PTA Meeting- 5:30-6:30pm

28th- AAP Parent Orientation- 6-6:25pm

28th- Back to School Night- 6:30-7:30pm

 

4th- National Walk to School Day

9th- Indigenous People Day- (student holiday- no school for students)

17th- PTA Meeting- 6-6:30pm

23rd- Fall Picture Day

28th- Fall Festival- 10am-2pm

 

*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.

Congrats to Mrs. Herring!

Congratulations to our School Based Technologist Specialist, Mrs. Kelly Herring, who was selected to receive a 2023 FCPS Individual Excellence Award!  

This honor recognizes and celebrates her commitment to serve FCPS with the highest degree of dedication and professionalism.  We commend her personal efforts and achievements to produce exceptional results while supporting our school system’s mission and vision.

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

If your child has a chronic illness, make sure to notify their teacher, so that assistance can be provided if needed. Please contact us as soon as you know your child will be absent. 

Read more about how families can help form good attendance habits.

 

National Hispanic Heritage Month

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. 

Fairfax Fiesta

Fairfax County's inaugural Hispanic Heritage Celebration, the Fairfax Fiesta, is taking place on Saturday, Sept. 23, from noon to 5 p.m., at the PARC at Tysons (8508 Leesburg Pike). The free event, presented by the Fairfax County Government and Celebrate Fairfax!, aims to provide an extraordinary experience for all ages and backgrounds. Learn more about Fairfax Fiesta.

How to Access Free Resources from Tutor.com

All FCPS students continue to have unlimited access to live, 24/7, one-on-one online tutoring services through Tutor.com at no cost to families. Student participation is optional and parents/caregivers can opt their student(s) out of accessing the services. Get more information on the Tutor.com Online Tutoring Services webpage.

Students can access Tutor.com via a link in Schoology. Additional information about how to log in and access a tutor is provided to families via the following: Elementary - How It Works and Middle & High - How It Works. Questions not answered in the posted resources may be sent to [email protected]. 

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- Rosh Hashanah

17th- Constitution Day

25th- Yom Kippur (student holiday- no school)

28th- PTA Meeting- 5:30-6:30pm

28th- AAP Parent Orientation- 6-6:25pm

28th- Back to School Night- 6:30-7:30pm

4th- National Walk to School Day

9th- Indigenous People Day- (student holiday- no school for students)

17th- PTA Meeting- 6-6:30pm

23rd- Fall Picture Day

28th- Fall Festival- 10am-2pm

 

*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

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.

September 11- National Day of Service

With the upcoming 22nd 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. 

Get started this fall with two great opportunities: Public Lands Day (September 23) and Volunteer Fairfax’s VolunteerFest (October 21). Information on service projects can be found on the Volunteer Fairfax website.

Students Are Learning Every Day

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 long 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.

Read more about how families can help form good attendance habits.

How to Access Free Resources from Tutor.com

All FCPS students continue to have unlimited access to live, 24/7, one-on-one online tutoring services through Tutor.com at no cost to families. Student participation is optional and parents/caregivers can opt their student(s) out of accessing the services. Get more information on the Tutor.com Online Tutoring Services webpage.

Students can access Tutor.com via a link in Schoology. Additional information about how to log in and access a tutor is provided to families via the following: Elementary - How It Works and Middle & High - How It Works. Questions not answered in the posted resources may be sent to [email protected]. 

Caregiver Checklist: Have You Completed These Important Forms?

During the first weeks of the year, caregivers receive many forms to complete. Several of the most important ones are below:

1. Digital Resources Consent: Some FCPS-approved digital resources require parent/caregiver consent before they can be used by students. Find the list of resources which require consent on the Digital Resources - Parent Consent page. This page also includes directions on how to provide permission.
2. Student Rights and Responsibilities: This document explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses. Parents using SIS ParentVUE will be prompted to sign the document when they log in to that platform. A printable version of the document with a signature sheet is available on the SR&R webpage.
3. Opt-Outs: The Opt-Out Booklet is online or available from your child’s school. It contains information on: 
1. Parents’ rights to inspect and consent or opt out before their child participates in certain surveys.
2. Parents’ rights to inspect instructional materials.
3. Rules regarding student records and disclosure of student information (including photo/video of students) and the right to opt out.
4. Parents’ rights to opt out of the Social Emotional Learning Screener, physical exams not required by state law, career or social emotional counseling, Library Equity Access Pass Project, and/or Tutor.com.
5. The process by which complaints may be filed if parents or students believe their rights have been violated.

Paper forms can be signed and returned to school.

2023-24 Health and Safety Guidance for Schools

Although the COVID-19 hospital transmission level (previously the COVID-19 Community Transmission level) for Fairfax County is currently low, COVID-19 cases have risen in Virginia during the last few weeks, and flu season will soon be upon us. Be sure to review FCPS Health and Safety Guidance for the best ways to prevent the spread of disease and to find out when students should stay home from school. 

STEAMOLOGY STEM Fest Offers Hands-On Activities for Students

Students are invited to participate in STEM FEST on Saturday, October 14, from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at South County High School. Students in kindergarten through eighth grade can participate in robotics demonstrations, coding experiments, and more. High school students are invited to volunteer. Visit the STEAMOLOGY website for more information.

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- Patriot Day

15th- Rosh Hashanah

17th- Constitution Day

25th- Yom Kippur (student holiday- no school)

28th- PTA Meeting- 5:30-6:30pm

28th- AAP Parent Orientation- 6-6:25pm

28th- Back to School Night- 6:30-7:30pm

 

*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

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 Open Door Church for Staff Breakfast & Supporting our Block Party! Labor Day (Holiday)

Friday, September 1, and Monday, September 4, are Labor Day holidays for all FCPS employees and students. Virginia legislation requires that schools opening prior to Labor Day must be closed the Friday immediately preceding Labor Day. We hope everyone takes the long weekend to celebrate a strong start to the school year and enjoy time with family and friends. See the complete school year calendar.

Back to School Night Date Adjustment

Back to School Nights are an important part of strengthening our family partnerships.  In an effort to ensure all of our families are able to attend these important events, we are changing our date to September 28th so as to not conflict with Westfield High School's Back to School Night.  We want all of our families to be able to participate and look forward to seeing you here!

Fall Advance Academics Program Newsletter

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is committed to challenging all students through talent development efforts and differentiated instruction to meet the needs of advanced learners.  FCPS offers a continuum of advanced academic services for all students in Grades K-12. The continuum of services approach recognizes unique student needs and focuses on matching services,
not labeling students.  To find out more about these services and the identification process, please check out the AAP Newsletter.

Support Your Child’s Success

Access your student’s attendance records, grades, and assignments at any time with SIS ParentVUE. Caregivers should receive an activation code when they register their child. 

Once you have activated a ParentVUE account for an FCPS student, you will keep the same account until the student graduates. Information about students in the same family can be accessed through the same ParentVUE account. Access SIS ParentVUE by using an app on your iPhone, iPad, or Android devices. 

Need help creating a SIS ParentVUE account? This video walks through the steps. Find out more about SIS ParentVUE.

SEL Screener Parent Notification and Updates

FCPS is committed to supporting the mental wellness of all students. The Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener helps our students share their perspectives on how their schools and communities support them and help them develop the skills they need to succeed.

The screener is offered to all students in grades 3 through 12 in the fall and spring. It addresses skills like achieving goals, understanding and managing emotions, establishing and maintaining relationships with adults and peers, and making responsible decisions. Students also share how successful their school and community are at making them feel valued, included, and supported. Screener data is used to plan programming for the division, schools, and individual students. 

Key updates to the screener this year include:

• Different versions for students in grades 3-5 and 6-12. 
• Fewer topics with more questions to provide schools and families with more data to support planning. 
• Additional questions aligned with FCPS’ commitment to educational equity.

Results are mailed home to families after each screening. Families who wish to opt their child out may do so by completing the opt-out form in the Annual Notice packet or SIS ParentVue. 

For more information, please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage or contact us at 703-713-3000 

Please note that the SEL Screener differs from the anonymous Fairfax County Youth Survey. For more information about the Youth Survey, see the Fairfax County Youth Survey site.

Parental Permission to Use Digital Resources

Some FCPS-approved digital resources require parent consent before they can be used by students. Find the list of resources which require consent on the Parent Consent webpage. This page also includes directions for providing permission. 

Each digital resource used in FCPS has had an instructional and technical review. Information about the educational technology tools approved for use within FCPS can be found in the online Digital Ecosystem Library.

Parents can find more information about FCPS-approved digital resources on the Digital Resources in FCPS 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

1st-4th- Labor Day Break (student holiday- no school)

11th- Patriot Day

14th- PTA Meeting- 5:30-6pm

15th- Rosh Hashanah

17th- Constitution Day

25th- Yom Kippur (student holiday- no school)

28th- Back to School Night

 

*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

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

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Arrival/Dismissal Reminders

• 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.
• Dismissal begins at 4:00pm
• At arrival, all students should enter through the main school doors (door 1).
• 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.
• At Kiss and Ride, you must stay in your car.  If you need to get out, please pull into a parking spot.

Buses and Delays

Transportation Patience and Safety

Thank you for your patience as we all get used to new routines this school year. We appreciate our families following Kiss and Ride procedures and being patient while waiting for your children’s buses. 

If a student’s bus is delayed, parents may access the Bus Delay Notification System or use the Here Comes the Bus mobile app to receive the delayed bus report. Email messages will be sent to announce significant bus delays. Contact the Transportation Office at 703-249-7000  with any additional questions. For any concerns after 5:30 p.m., contact Safety and Security at 571-423-2000. 

To make sure you receive email messages about bus delays, update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE.

Parental Permission to Use Digital Resources

Some FCPS-approved digital resources require parent/caregiver consent before they can be used by students. Find the list of resources which require consent on the Parent Consent webpage. This page also includes directions for providing permission. 

Each digital resource used in FCPS has had an instructional and technical review. Information about the educational technology tools approved for use within FCPS can be found in the online Digital Ecosystem Library.

Find more information about FCPS-approved digital resources on the Digital Resources in FCPS webpage.

🙋 Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!

https://youtu.be/s_A1dtC4q7UThe beginning of the school year is the best time to develop strong attendance habits! Students who attend school regularly are more likely to perform well in reading and math, develop strong social and emotional skills, and graduate from high school on time. Help prepare your child for future success. Watch this video with tips from Fairfax Pyramid principals and visit FCPS’ Attendance webpage for tips and strategies. 

Counseling at Coates

This week students met and/or learned about their counselors. Next week your child will be having and overview of feelings and emotions.  Lessons for the 2023-24 school year will be taught during the Mindfulness weekly lessons for Kindergarten through 3rd grade and monthly lessons for 4th-6th grade.

SR&R

FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities document (SR&R) explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses to enhance school safety and to create a fair, equitable, and supportive school environment. In late June, the School Board approved changes to the SR&R for the 2023-24 school year. Updates include a revision of dress code expectations, bystander expectations for students witnessing harmful or unsafe behaviors, bullying, and substance abuse responses. Read Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid’s letter to families regarding the SR&R. 

Parents/caregivers should talk to their child(ren) about expectations for this school year. Also, please log in to SIS ParentVUE and sign to acknowledge your review of the SR&R, or sign and return the signature sheet to your child’s school by Friday, September 29. 

🔍 Lightspeed Parent Report on Child’s Device Activity

FCPS has tools to help parents know more about their child’s activity on any FCPS device. These tools are provided at no cost to families by Lightspeed, the school division’s internet content filtering service.

Parents may sign up for a weekly Parent Report, which will provide a list of the top sites your child visited. The report also offers parents the ability to sign up for free access to the Internet Use Parent Portal. Through the portal, parents may pause their child’s access to the internet on their FCPS device during non-school hours.

Learn more about Lightspeed Parent Reports.

Safety Drills

Keeping students and staff safe is a priority for FCPS. Each school has an emergency preparedness plan to respond to incidents such as fires and tornadoes. Schools are required by state law to practice emergency drills, including lockdown drills, each year. Schools are also required to notify parents and guardians at least 24 hours before a school conducts a lockdown drill. However, schools are not required to give the specific date and time of the drill in advance. 

The first lockdown drill of the school year must take place within the first 20 days of school. Preschool and kindergarten students are exempt from practicing the first lockdown drill. 

Your child may come home and talk about their experience during the drill. We encourage you to talk with your child about the importance of being prepared for emergencies. Please review these frequently asked questions to support your students before and after school lockdown drills.

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- Fall Festival Planning Committee (PTA)- 6-7pm

 

1st-4th- Labor Day Break (student holiday- no school)

11th- Patriot Day

14th- PTA Meeting- 5:30-6pm

14th- Back to School Night- 6-7:30pm

15th- Rosh Hashanah

17th- Constitution Day

25th- Yom Kippur (student holiday- no school)

 

*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

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