The Pine Spring Paw Print

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Paw Print Topics 3-Hour Early Release Monday- TOMORROW

This is a reminder that tomorrow is a 3-hour early release day. Students going home will be dismissed at 12:30 PM, while the final dismissal for the day will be at 3:30 PM.

Thank you for your attention, and please plan accordingly!

Boundary Review Community Meetings Start This Month

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

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

Pine Spring Night at Silver Diner Luther Jackson Middle School Performance

Luther Jackson Middle School is proud to present Aesop Live! , a super funny show bringing the ancient tales and morals of Aesop to life in very unexpected ways! The shows are:

  • Thursday, November 21st 7:00 PM
  • Friday, November 22nd 7:00 PM
  • Saturday, November 23rd 2:00 PM

They have dedicated the 2:00 PM matinee on Saturday to young audience members and will invite them onstage to take pictures with our cast and crew after the show!

Doors for general admission open ½ hour before each show. The show runs approximately 80 minutes with a short intermission and is appropriate for audience members of all ages!

See if you can count the number of Pine Spring alumni in the performance! 

Tickets are on sale now online at our LJMS Website: https://jacksonms.fcps.edu/

Or by using this direct link: https://www.etix.com/ticket/v/15611/luther-jackson-middle-school

Tickets are only $5 and will also be available at the door for $6.

Save the Date

November 18: 3-Hour Early Release

November 27-29: No School (Thanksgiving)

December 5: FLE Preview Night (5:00 PM)

December 5: PTA Meeting (7:00 PM)

 

7607 Willow Lane Falls Church, VA 22042  | Main Office: 571-226-4400
Attendance: 571-226-4444 | Web | Twitter | Instagram

The Pine Spring Paw Print

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Paw Print Topics Happy Veterans Day

Today, we pause to honor and thank the brave men and women who have served our country. Veterans Day is a special opportunity to recognize the sacrifices of those who have dedicated themselves to protecting our freedoms.

At Pine Spring, we are grateful for the veterans in our community and beyond, including the families who share the unique experience of service. We’re proud to stand with you and honor your courage and commitment.

To all our veterans and military families, thank you for your service and sacrifice. Happy Veterans Day!

Pine Spring Elementary is Now a Purple Star School!

We are thrilled to announce that Pine Spring Elementary has been recognized as a Purple Star School for the first time! The Purple Star designation is awarded to schools that demonstrate a dedicated commitment to supporting the unique needs of military-connected students and their families. This honor reflects our school community's pride and dedication to providing a welcoming, supportive environment for those who serve. Thank you to our incredible staff, families, and students for helping make Pine Spring a place where everyone belongs!

Silent Auction- Final Days Boundary Review Community Meetings Start This Month

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

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

Make Up Picture Day- Thursday Pine Spring Night at Silver Diner Luther Jackson Middle School Performance

Luther Jackson Middle School is proud to present Aesop Live! , a super funny show bringing the ancient tales and morals of Aesop to life in very unexpected ways! The shows are:

  • Thursday, November 21st 7:00 PM
  • Friday, November 22nd 7:00 PM
  • Saturday, November 23rd 2:00 PM

They have dedicated the 2:00 PM matinee on Saturday to young audience members and will invite them onstage to take pictures with our cast and crew after the show!

Doors for general admission open ½ hour before each show. The show runs approximately 80 minutes with a short intermission and is appropriate for audience members of all ages!

See if you can count the number of Pine Spring alumni in the performance! 

Tickets are on sale now online at our LJMS Website: https://jacksonms.fcps.edu/

Or by using this direct link: https://www.etix.com/ticket/v/15611/luther-jackson-middle-school

Tickets are only $5 and will also be available at the door for $6.

IEP Palooza and Community Resource Fair

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

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

Cell Phone/ Smartwatch Policy Reminder
  • Phones must be silenced and in backpacks for the duration of the school day. Cell phones may be used on campus before and after school only.
  • Smart watches that serve a dual purpose may be worn, but the phone features (texting, Internet viewing, and calls) are to be off when phone use is prohibited. This includes contact with their parents during the day. If you need to contact your child during the day for an emergency, please call the main office. 
  • Students are prohibited from using phones, tablets, and other mobile devices in restrooms and locker rooms, unless there is a medical necessity or emergency.
  • With the approval of the principal or their designee, teachers may allow usage of cell phones for instructional activities where they are the most appropriate tool; however, one-to-one FCPS devices should meet most needs.
Services for Hearing-Impaired and Visually-Impaired Students

Students with sensory disabilities require specialized services and support to access instruction that is typically presented visually and auditorily (by means of hearing). FCPS provides educational services to students who are deaf, hearing-impaired, or visually impaired. They are supported in various settings, including at their school or through itinerant specialists who travel to different schools to work with students, rather than being based in a single school. Learn more about Services for Students Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing and Services for Students Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired.

Visit the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) website for Resources for Serving Students with Sensory Disabilities.

Save the Date

November 13: Understanding AAP Full Time Referral Process (6:00 PM in the library)

November 14: School Picture Makeups

November 18: 3-Hour Early Release

November 27-29: No School (Thanksgiving)

December 5: FLE Preview Night (5:00 PM)

December 5: PTA Meeting (7:00 PM)

December 12: Literacy Night

7607 Willow Lane Falls Church, VA 22042  | Main Office: 571-226-4400
Attendance: 571-226-4444 | Web | Twitter | Instagram

Pine Spring Paw Print

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Paw Print Topics TWO Hour Early Release- 10/31/24

This Thursday, students will be released at 1:30 PM. Please note that this differs from the 3-hour early releases, as students will leave at 1:30 PM and cannot stay at school.  Please contact the front office with any questions. 

2024-2025 Outstanding Employee Awards

Dear Bobcat Staff & Families,

 Nominations are now open for the 2024-2025 Outstanding Employee Awards! To submit a nomination for an outstanding Pine Spring employee, please complete the nomination through this Google form, you will have until Thursday, October 31st.

 Teachers and families are strongly encouraged to nominate one or more employees (one employee per category) to highlight the outstanding work that happens every day here at Pine Spring. All that is required for a nomination is a paragraph or two about how the employee demonstrates exceptionalism. 

The deadline to submit a nomination is Thursday, October 31, 2024.

If you have any questions, please contact your Awards Liaison Bridget Lovas @ [email protected]

Bake Sale Veteran Guest Speaker- 2 Volunteers Still Needed

On November 6th and 7th, we are looking for volunteers who would like to visit Pine Spring to share their journey to joining the service and how education supported this journey. If you or someone you know is interested, please sign up for one of the available slots in the link below. Our students always look forward to meeting a real-life hero!

Sign up here! https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050F44A9AD22AA8-52038043-veteran

Veterans Day Concert

Pine Spring invites you to honor our veterans with a special concert on Friday, November 8th in the Pine Spring Gym. Students will be performing a selection of music that pays tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of our service members, with special performances by the Pine Spring Chorus and Orchestra.

Save the Date

October 31: 2-hour early release (1:30 PM)

November 1: No School (Diwali)

November 4-5: No School (Parent Conferences)

November 7: PTA Meeting (7:00 PM)

November 8: Veterans’ Celebration Concert

November 13: Understanding AAP Full Time Referral Process (6:00 PM)

November 14: School Picture Makeups

November 18: 3-Hour Early Release

November 27-29: No School (Thanksgiving)

December 5: FLE Preview Night (5:00 PM)

December 5: PTA Meeting (7:00 PM)

December 12: Literacy Night

7607 Willow Lane Falls Church, VA 22042  | Main Office: 571-226-4400
Attendance: 571-226-4444 | Web | Twitter | Instagram

Pine Spring Paw Print

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Paw Print Topics TWO Hour Early Release- 10/31/24

This Thursday, students will be released at 1:30 PM. Please note that this differs from the 3-hour early releases, as students will leave at 1:30 PM and cannot stay at school.  Please contact the front office with any questions. 

2024-2025 Outstanding Employee Awards

Dear Bobcat Staff & Families,

 Nominations are now open for the 2024-2025 Outstanding Employee Awards! To submit a nomination for an outstanding Pine Spring employee, please complete the nomination through this Google form, you will have until Thursday, October 31st.

 Teachers and families are strongly encouraged to nominate one or more employees (one employee per category) to highlight the outstanding work that happens every day here at Pine Spring. All that is required for a nomination is a paragraph or two about how the employee demonstrates exceptionalism. 

The deadline to submit a nomination is Thursday, October 31, 2024.

If you have any questions, please contact your Awards Liaison Bridget Lovas @ [email protected]

Bake Sale Veteran Guest Speaker- 2 Volunteers Still Needed

On November 6th and 7th, we are looking for volunteers who would like to visit Pine Spring to share their journey to joining the service and how education supported this journey. If you or someone you know is interested, please sign up for one of the available slots in the link below. Our students always look forward to meeting a real-life hero!

Sign up here! https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050F44A9AD22AA8-52038043-veteran

Veterans Day Concert

Pine Spring invites you to honor our veterans with a special concert on Friday, November 8th in the Pine Spring Gym. Students will be performing a selection of music that pays tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of our service members, with special performances by the Pine Spring Chorus and Orchestra.

Save the Date

October 31: 2-hour early release (1:30 PM)

November 1: No School (Diwali)

November 4-5: No School (Parent Conferences)

November 7: PTA Meeting (7:00 PM)

November 8: Veterans’ Celebration Concert

November 13: Understanding AAP Full Time Referral Process (6:00 PM)

November 14: School Picture Makeups

November 18: 3-Hour Early Release

November 27-29: No School (Thanksgiving)

December 5: FLE Preview Night (5:00 PM)

December 5: PTA Meeting (7:00 PM)

December 12: Literacy Night

7607 Willow Lane Falls Church, VA 22042  | Main Office: 571-226-4400
Attendance: 571-226-4444 | Web | Twitter | Instagram

Pine Spring Paw Print

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Paw Print Topics SCA Spirit Week PTA Silent Auction Book Fair

The Pine Spring Book Fair is here!
Sign up to volunteer: Book Fair Volunteer Sign-up

This event can't happen without your support!

Book Fair eWallet

Preview available books: Book Fair Preview

Set up an eWallet, a digital payment account to fund your child’s purchases in advance. Learn more on the link above.

Pine Spring Election Day Bake Sale Early Release Monday- October 21

Just a reminder that Monday, October 21st, is a 3-hour early release day. Students will be dismissed at 12:30 PM. Students will be dismissed the same way they went home last month, unless you contact the office at 571-226-4406 to make any changes. 

We are also excited to share that SACC (School-Age Child Care) will now be available during 3-hour early releases. If this impacts your plan, you will need to call the main office to make the change to your child's 3 hour early release plan. 

2024-2025 Outstanding Employee Awards

Dear Bobcat Staff & Families,

 Nominations are now open for the 2024-2025 Outstanding Employee Awards! To submit a nomination for an outstanding Pine Spring employee, please complete the nomination through this Google form, you will have until Thursday, October 31st.

 Teachers and families are strongly encouraged to nominate one or more employees (one employee per category) to highlight the outstanding work that happens every day here at Pine Spring. All that is required for a nomination is a paragraph or two about how the employee demonstrates exceptionalism in two or more criteria for their category, which are listed below.

Outstanding Teacher

  • Instills in students a desire to learn and achieve
  • Understands the individual needs of students, encourages their talents, and fosters their self-esteem
  • Demonstrates a thorough knowledge of subject matter and the ability to share it effectively with students
  • Fosters cooperative relationships and engages with their colleagues and the community
  • Demonstrates outstanding leadership
  • Fosters an environment where diversity in all of its forms is valued and appreciated and demonstrates keeping equity at the center of their work.
  • Contributes to one or more of the following Ignite Goals, in the FCPS Strategic Plan (Student Success, Caring Culture, Premier Workforce, Resource Stewardship)

Outstanding New Teacher

  • Exhibits superior instructional skills
  • Interacts exceptionally well with students
  • Demonstrates excellent ability to communicate and engage with faculty, staff, parents, and the community
  • Fosters an environment where diversity in all of its forms is valued and appreciated and demonstrates keeping equity at the center of their work
  • Contributes to one or more of the following Ignite Goals, in the FCPS Strategic Plan (Student Success, Caring Culture, Premier Workforce, Resource Stewardship)

Outstanding Principal

  • Manage effectively
  • Demonstrate and encourage creativity and innovation
  • Foster cooperation between the school and the community
  • Maintain a continuing dialogue with students and parents as well as faculty and staff
  • Keep abreast of developments in the field of education
  • Encourage team spirit
  • Demonstrate leadership and exemplify commitment
  • Continue to play an active role in the classroom
  • Foster an environment where diversity in all of its forms is valued and appreciated and demonstrates keeping equity at the center of their work
  • Contribute to one or more of the following Ignite Goals, in the FCPS Strategic Plan (Student Success, Caring Culture, Premier Workforce, Resource Stewardship)

 Outstanding Leader 

  • Provides a unique and exceptional contribution to FCPS through their work
  • Demonstrates commitment and leadership in their field
  • Fosters cooperative relationships with colleagues and/or the community
  • Fosters an environment where diversity in all of its forms is valued and appreciated and demonstrates keeping equity at the center of their work
  • Contributes to one or more of the following Ignite Goals, in the FCPS Strategic Plan (Student Success, Caring Culture, Premier Workforce, Resource Stewardship)

Outstanding Professional Employee 

  • Provides a unique and exceptional contribution to FCPS through their work
  • Demonstrates commitment and leadership in their field
  • Fosters cooperative relationships with colleagues and/or the community
  • Fosters an environment where diversity in all of its forms is valued and appreciated and demonstrates keeping equity at the center of their work
  • Contributes to one or more of the following Ignite Goals, in the FCPS Strategic Plan (Student Success, Caring Culture, Premier Workforce, Resource Stewardship)

 Outstanding Operational Employee

  •  Provides a unique and exceptional contribution to FCPS through their work
  • Demonstrates commitment and leadership in their field
  • Fosters cooperative relationships with colleagues and/or the community
  • Fosters an environment where diversity in all of its forms is valued and appreciated and demonstrates keeping equity at the center of their work
  • Contributes to one or more of the following Ignite Goals, in the FCPS Strategic Plan (Student Success, Caring Culture, Premier Workforce, Resource Stewardship)

The deadline to submit a nomination is Thursday, October 31, 2024.

If you have any questions, please contact your Awards Liaison Bridget Lovas @ [email protected]

Veteran Guest Speaker- Volunteers Needed

On November 6th and 7th, we are looking for volunteers who would like to visit Pine Spring to share their journey to joining the service and how education supported this journey. If you or someone you know is interested, please sign up for one of the available slots in the link below. Our students always look forward to meeting a real-life hero!

Sign up here! https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050F44A9AD22AA8-52038043-veteran

Restaurant Night Veterans Day Concert

Pine Spring invites you to honor our veterans with a special concert on Friday, November 8th in the Pine Spring Gym. Students will be performing a selection of music that pays tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of our service members, with special performances by the Pine Spring Chorus and Orchestra.

📆 Fall Immunization Clinics:

The Fairfax County Health Department is providing immunizations for FCPS elementary students during early release Mondays at their health clinics this fall. 

Find out the clinic date, locations, and how to make an appointment: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/health/immunization/locations

Find out more about the immunizations required for K-12 students to attend public school in Virginia: https://www.fcps.edu/immunizations

Early Childhood Program- VQB5

FCPS is participating in Virginia Quality Birth to Five (VQB5). VQB5 is Virginia’s system for measuring and supporting quality in early childhood programs so children enter kindergarten ready to learn. VQB5 builds on health and safety standards by measuring the quality of teacher-child interactions and the use of the curriculum. Refer to “VQB5 for Families English/Spanish” for more information.

Save the Date

October 18-25: Book Fair 

October 25: Book Character Day

October 21: 3-Hour Early Release (12:30 PM)

October 31: 2-hour early release (1:30 PM)

November 1: No School (Diwali)

November 4-5: No School (Parent Conferences)

November 7: PTA Meeting (7:00 PM)

November 8: Veterans’ Celebration Concert

November 13: Understanding AAP Full Time Referral Process (6:00 PM)

November 14: School Picture Makeups

November 18: 3-Hour Early Release

November 27-29: No School (Thanksgiving)

December 5: FLE Preview Night (5:00 PM)

December 5: PTA Meeting (7:00 PM)

December 12: Literacy Night

7607 Willow Lane Falls Church, VA 22042  | Main Office: 571-226-4400
Attendance: 571-226-4444 | Web | Twitter | Instagram

Pine Spring Paw Print

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Paw Print Topics Book Fair Early Release Monday- October 21

Just a reminder that Monday, October 21st, is a 3-hour early release day. Students will be dismissed at 12:30 PM. Students will be dismissed the same way they went home last month, unless you contact the office at 571-226-4406 to make any changes. If there is a change to your child’s dismissal plan, please notify the front office no later than Thursday, October 17th.

We are also excited to share that SACC (School-Age Child Care) will now be available during 3-hour early releases. If this impacts your plan, you will need to call the main office to make the change to your child's 3 hour early release plan. 

Veteran Guest Speaker- Volunteers Needed

On November 6th and 7th, we are looking for volunteers who would like to visit Pine Spring to share their journey to joining the service and how education supported this journey. If you or someone you know is interested, please sign up for one of the available slots in the link below. Our students always look forward to meeting a real-life hero!

Sign up here! https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050F44A9AD22AA8-52038043-veteran

Restaurant Night Veterans Day Concert

Pine Spring invites you to honor our veterans with a special concert on Friday, November 8th in the Pine Spring Gym. Students will be performing a selection of music that pays tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of our service members, with special performances by the Pine Spring Chorus and Orchestra.

📆 Fall Immunization Clinics:

The Fairfax County Health Department is providing immunizations for FCPS elementary students during early release Mondays at their health clinics this fall. 

Find out the clinic date, locations, and how to make an appointment: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/health/immunization/locations

Find out more about the immunizations required for K-12 students to attend public school in Virginia: https://www.fcps.edu/immunizations

Save the Date

October 18-25: Book Fair 

October 25: Book Character Day

October 21: 3-Hour Early Release (12:30 PM)

October 31: 2-hour early release (1:30 PM)

November 1: No School (Diwali)

November 4-5: No School (Parent Conferences)

November 7: PTA Meeting (7:00 PM)

November 8: Veterans’ Celebration Concert

November 13: Understanding AAP Full Time Referral Process (6:00 PM)

November 14: School Picture Makeups

November 18: 3-Hour Early Release

November 27-29: No School (Thanksgiving)

December 5: FLE Preview Night (5:00 PM)

December 5: PTA Meeting (7:00 PM)

December 12: Literacy Night

7607 Willow Lane Falls Church, VA 22042  | Main Office: 571-226-4400
Attendance: 571-226-4444 | Web | Twitter | Instagram

Pine Spring Paw Print

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Paw Print Topics Veteran Guest Speaker- Volunteers Needed

On November 6th and 7th, we are looking for volunteers who would like to visit Pine Spring to share their journey to joining the service and how education supported this journey. If you or someone you know is interested, please sign up for one of the available slots in the link below. Our students always look forward to meeting a real-life hero!

Sign up here! https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050F44A9AD22AA8-52038043-veteran

📚 Social Studies Basal Resources Review

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

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

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

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

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

Veterans Day Concert

Pine Spring invites you to honor our veterans with a special concert on Friday, November 8th in the Pine Spring Gym. Students will be performing a selection of music that pays tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of our service members, with special performances by the Pine Spring Chorus and Orchestra.

📆 Fall Immunization Clinics:

The Fairfax County Health Department is providing immunizations for FCPS elementary students during early release Mondays at their health clinics this fall. 

Find out the clinic date, locations, and how to make an appointment: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/health/immunization/locations

Find out more about the immunizations required for K-12 students to attend public school in Virginia: https://www.fcps.edu/immunizations

AAP Information Night- Thursday at 6PM

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is dedicated to providing a challenging and enriching learning environment for all students through talent development and differentiated instruction, specifically tailored to meet the needs of advanced learners. FCPS offers a comprehensive continuum of advanced academic services for students in Grades K-12. This approach is designed to recognize each student’s unique needs, focusing on providing appropriate services.

Pine Spring Elementary School will host a parent information meeting on October 10, 2024. The meeting has been moved to 6:00 PM to allow for families to attend the PTA meeting afterward. Our Advanced Academic Resource Teacher (AART), Tracy Haynes, will provide an overview of the continuum of AAP services, explain the screening processes, and answer any questions about advanced academic opportunities.

For students in grades 2-7, full-time AAP referrals and optional supporting materials must be submitted to Tracy Haynes by December 15, 2024, at 4:00 PM.

Save the Date

October 10: AAP Parent Information Night (6:00 PM)

October 10: PTA Meeting (7:00 PM)

October 14: No School (Staff Development)

October 18-25: Book Fair 

October 25: Book Character Day

October 21: 3-Hour Early Release

October 31: 2-hour early release (End of quarter)

November 1: No School (Diwali)

November 4-5: No School (Parent Conferences)

November 7: PTA Meeting (7:00 PM)

November 8: Veterans’ Celebration Concert

November 13: Understanding AAP Full Time Referral Process (6:00 PM)

November 14: School Picture Makeups

November 18: 3-Hour Early Release

November 27-29: No School (Thanksgiving)

December 5: FLE Preview Night (5:00 PM)

December 5: PTA Meeting (7:00 PM)

December 12: Literacy Night

7607 Willow Lane Falls Church, VA 22042  | Main Office: 571-226-4400
Attendance: 571-226-4444 | Web | Twitter | Instagram

Pine Spring Paw Print

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Paw Print Topics Parent Project Workshop 📆 Fall Immunization Clinics:

The Fairfax County Health Department is providing immunizations for FCPS elementary students during early release Mondays at their health clinics this fall. 

Find out the clinic date, locations, and how to make an appointment: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/health/immunization/locations

Find out more about the immunizations required for K-12 students to attend public school in Virginia: https://www.fcps.edu/immunizations

🕺💃 A huge thank you to our incredible PTA for organizing another fantastic Back-to-School Dance for our Pine Spring Bobcats!  This annual event is always a highlight for our families, and this year was no exception. From the music to the fun raffle, it was a night full of smiles, laughter, and community spirit. We are so grateful for your dedication and hard work in making this event such a memorable experience for everyone! 

Conferences: Schedule Yours Today!

If you have not already, we encourage caregivers to schedule a conference with their child's teacher to discuss progress and any questions you may have. To accommodate your needs, conferences can be held in person, virtually, or over the phone. Please reach out to your child’s teacher to set up a time that works best for you. Let's work together to support your child's success!

AAP Information Night

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is dedicated to providing a challenging and enriching learning environment for all students through talent development and differentiated instruction, specifically tailored to meet the needs of advanced learners. FCPS offers a comprehensive continuum of advanced academic services for students in Grades K-12. This approach is designed to recognize each student’s unique needs, focusing on providing appropriate services.

Pine Spring Elementary School will host a parent information meeting on October 10, 2024, at 7:00 PM. Our Advanced Academic Resource Teacher (AART), Tracy Haynes, will provide an overview of the continuum of AAP services, explain the screening processes, and answer any questions about advanced academic opportunities.

For students in grades 2-7, full-time AAP referrals and optional supporting materials must be submitted to Tracy Haynes by December 15, 2024, at 4:00 PM.

We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to Mrs. Kempf and Mrs. Johannsen for their incredible leadership of our Science Olympic team! 🧪🔬 Your dedication, enthusiasm, and hard work have inspired our students to explore the wonders of science and foster a love of learning. We are so grateful for everything you do to support and guide our young scientists. Thank you for making a difference! 

No School-Thursday and Friday📚

There will be no school on Thursday, October 3rd, as we celebrate Rosh Hashanah, and Friday, October 4th, is a teacher workday. We hope our families enjoy this extended weekend and take some time to relax. We can’t wait to welcome our students back on Monday, refreshed and ready to learn! 

Save the Date

October 3: No School (Rosh Hashanah)

October 4: No School (Teacher Workday)

October 10: AAP Parent Information Night (6:00 PM)

October 10: PTA Meeting (7:00 PM)

October 14: No School (Staff Development)

October 18-25: Book Fair 

October 25: Book Character Day

October 21: 3-Hour Early Release

October 31: 2-hour early release (End of quarter)

November 1: No School (Diwali)

November 4-5: No School (Parent Conferences)

November 7: PTA Meeting (7:00 PM)

November 8: Veterans’ Celebration Concert

November 13: Understanding AAP Full Time Referral Process (6:00 PM)

November 14: School Picture Makeups

November 18: 3-Hour Early Release

November 27-29: No School (Thanksgiving)

December 5: FLE Preview Night (5:00 PM)

December 5: PTA Meeting (7:00 PM)

December 12: Literacy Night

7607 Willow Lane Falls Church, VA 22042  | Main Office: 571-226-4400
Attendance: 571-226-4444 | Web | Twitter | Instagram

Pine Spring Paw Print

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Paw Print Topics PTA Kickoff Dance

Mark your calendars and dust off your dancing shoes – our annual Pine Spring PTA Dance is just around the corner! 

Join us on Friday, September 27th, at 5:30 PM for a fun-filled evening where our entire Pine Spring community comes together to kick off the school year with fun, laughter, and lots of dancing! We’ll have a fantastic DJ spinning your favorite child friendly tunes, and there will be chances for students to win exciting prizes throughout the night! 

Want to get involved? We’d love to have your help to make this event a success! If you’re interested in volunteering, please click here to sign up.

We can't wait to see everyone on the dance floor! Let’s make this year's PTA Dance the best one yet!

Preorder Pizza Fall Picture Day 9/27/24

📅 Date: Friday, September 27, 2024

📸 Pictures Available: Approximately two weeks after photo day

🛒 Pre-order Online: https://vando.imagequix.com/g1001138739#login

📧 Questions about Ordering? Email us at [email protected]

Students to Be Surveyed on Social-Emotional Learning

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 such as 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. 

After each screening, results will be available in the Documents tab of SIS ParentVUE and mailed to families who don’t have a ParentVUE account. For more information, please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage.

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 our front office. 

Please note that the SEL Screener is not the same as the anonymous Fairfax County Youth Survey, which will take place later this fall.

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

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

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

Save the Date

September 27: Fall Pictures

September 27: PTA Dance

October 3: No School (Rosh Hashanah)

October 4: No School (Teacher Workday)

October 10: AAP Parent Information Night (6:00 PM)

October 10: PTA Meeting (7:00 PM)

October 14: No School (Staff Development)

October 18-25: Book Fair 

October 21: 3-Hour Early Release

October 31: 2-hour early release (End of quarter)

November 1: No School (Diwali)

November 4-5: No School (Parent Conferences)

November 7: PTA Meeting (7:00 PM)

November 8: Veterans’ Celebration Concert

November 13: Understanding AAP Full Time Referral Process (6:00 PM)

November 14: School Picture Makeups

November 18: 3-Hour Early Release

November 27-29: No School (Thanksgiving)

December 5: FLE Preview Night (5:00 PM)

December 5: PTA Meeting (7:00 PM)

December 12: Literacy Night

7607 Willow Lane Falls Church, VA 22042  | Main Office: 571-226-4400
Attendance: 571-226-4444 | Web | Twitter | Instagram

Pine Spring PTA News

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Girls on the Run

GOTR has fun, evidence-based programs that inspire girls in 3rd-6th grade to build their confidence, kindness, and decision making skills. Dynamic lessons instill valuable life skills including the important connection between physical and emotional health.


Starting the week of September 23rd, the team will meet Wednesday & Friday before school at 7:45am. The program culminates in a celebratory 5K at the end of the season!


Since all PSES students receive free lunch when registering please indicate this to pay the fee of $22. This includes weekly lessons/practices, a t-shirt, a GOTR giveaway, entry into the 5K, a 5K medal, and more.


Please contact [email protected] to receive a code to register at no cost.


Register today at: https://www.gotrnova.org. Registration closes September 17th.


These materials are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or this school.

Join Pine Spring PTA

Are you looking for a way to get involved and make a real impact on your child’s education? Join the Pine Spring PTA today! For just $10 per family, you can become a member and help us create enriching programs, support our teachers, and build a stronger school community.

Becoming a member is easy! Visit BIT.LY/JOINPSPTA to sign up. Your membership helps fund essential resources and events that directly benefit our students. Every parent has something valuable to contribute, and we’d love to have you on board!

New Pine Spring PTA Website!

We're excited to introduce our brand-new Pine Spring PTA website, your go-to source for everything happening with our PTA! This brand new site is designed to make it easier than ever for parents, teachers, and community members to stay connected and engaged.

Here's what you'll find:

  • Event Calendar: Never miss a school event again! Our dynamic calendar keeps you updated on upcoming activities, PTA meetings, fundraisers, and community events.
  • Volunteer Opportunities: Discover meaningful ways to get involved. Whether you have a little time or a lot, there are plenty of opportunities to make a difference!
  • Resources for Parents: Access important documents, helpful guides, and essential school information in one convenient place.
  • News and Updates: Stay informed with the latest news from the PTA and Pine Spring Elementary. Get the scoop on initiatives, programs, and achievements.
  • Easy Membership and Donations: Join the PTA or make a donation online to support our students, teachers, and school programs.

Visit pinespringpta.com today to explore, connect, and engage with our amazing community! Your participation makes a difference – let's work together to create the best possible experience for every Pine Spring student!

7607 Willow Lane Falls Church, VA 22042  | Main Office: 571-226-4400
Attendance: 571-226-4444 | Web | Twitter | Instagram

Pine Spring Paw Print

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Paw Print Topics 12:30 Early Release- TOMORROW 9/16

This is a quick reminder that tomorrow is a 3-hour Early Release Day, and students will be dismissed at 12:30 PM.

Thank you to all the families who completed the survey or spoke with us to confirm your child's plans for dismissal. We will be using the information you've provided to ensure a smooth and safe process.

For those families who indicated their child would remain at school until the regular dismissal time of 3:30 PM, please remember that they will be supervised by FCPS staff, but it will not be their regular classroom teacher. If your child is scheduled to attend SACC, they will stay with FCPS staff until SACC opens at 3:30 PM.

✔️ Parent/Caregiver Checklist: Have You Completed These Important Forms?

We understand that the multiple school forms caregivers receive during the first weeks of school can feel overwhelming, but each one helps set your child up for a successful school year! If you do not have a SIS ParentVUE account, please contact the front office for an activation code and follow the directions on the SIS ParentVUE Account webpage

🩹 Immunization Requirements 

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

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

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

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

Find more information on immunizations

📋 Permission Forms

Families can easily grant permission for their children to access a variety of school resources through the Parent Digital Consent system. Parents can opt their child in or out of resources including online educational tools, school counseling services, and tutoring services. They can also change how student information is managed.Visit the Parent Digital Consent webpage to access the system. See how to use the tool

Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R)

The SR&R document explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses. Parents using SIS ParentVUE will be prompted to sign the document when logging in to that platform. A printable version of the document with a signature sheet is available on the SR&R webpage. This form should be signed and returned by Monday, September 30.

Mindful Monday

We are happy to announce that Mindful Mondays are back this year, and we couldn't be more excited! This beloved tradition, a favorite of both students and teachers, is returning to help us all start the week with energy, focus, and positivity.

Every Monday, we encourage students and staff to come dressed in their favorite workout wear, ready to move and stretch! Through our Yoga4Classrooms program, students will learn fun and engaging yoga poses that support their learning and overall well-being.

Here’s why we love Yoga4Classrooms. In just a few minutes a day it supports:

🌱 Creating a Positive Environment: It helps us build an inclusive and productive learning environment where everyone feels welcomed and supported.

💖 Building Compassion: It nurtures a culture of compassion for ourselves and others, which is key to a strong and connected community.

🧠 Fostering Growth: It promotes social, emotional, and physical development, contributing to every student's success.

🌟 Enhancing Well-being: It supports the well-being of our entire school community – students, teachers, and staff alike!

🛠️ Providing a Toolbox for Resilience: Students and educators will gain practical tools they can use to manage stress, stay focused, and maintain a positive outlook, whether at school or at home.

We can’t wait to see everyone in their yoga gear on Mondays, ready to start the week with intention and mindfulness! Thank you for your support in making Pine Spring Elementary a place where every child can thrive.

PTA Kickoff Dance

Mark your calendars and dust off your dancing shoes – our annual Pine Spring PTA Dance is just around the corner! 

Join us on Friday, September 27th, at 5:30 PM for a fun-filled evening where our entire Pine Spring community comes together to kick off the school year with fun, laughter, and lots of dancing! We’ll have a fantastic DJ spinning your favorite child friendly tunes, and there will be chances for students to win exciting prizes throughout the night! 

Want to get involved? We’d love to have your help to make this event a success! If you’re interested in volunteering, please click here to sign up.

We can't wait to see everyone on the dance floor! Let’s make this year's PTA Dance the best one yet!

Fall Picture Day 9/27/24

📅 Date: Friday, September 27, 2024

📸 Pictures Available: Approximately two weeks after photo day

🛒 Pre-order Online: https://vando.imagequix.com/g1001138739#login

📧 Questions about Ordering? Email us at [email protected]

K-2 Back To School Night 9/17/24

Calling all K-2 caregivers! Let's kick off the new school year with an evening dedicated to connecting, learning, and getting to know your child’s curriculum. This is an adult event and is not designed for children. 

Welcome for All K-2 Families

5:30 PM - 6:00 PM

Gym

Start the night with the Pine Spring administration to learn about Pine Spring.

Grade-Level Breakouts

6:00 PM - 6:30 PM

Kindergarten: Classroom

 1st Grade: Gym

2nd Grade: Library

Learn about the FCPS curriculum, communication with teachers, and your child’s daily schedule.

Specialist Meet & Greet

6:30 PM - 7:00 PM

Cafeteria

Enjoy a "Round Robin" style meet and greet with our Art, Music, and PE teachers. Get to know the specialists who will be engaging your children!

 

3-6 Back To School Night 9/18/24

Calling all 3-6 caregivers! Let's kick off the new school year with an evening dedicated to connecting, learning, and getting to know your child’s curriculum. This is an adult event and is not designed for children. 

Welcome for All 3-6 Families

5:30 PM - 6:00 PM

Gym

Start the night with the Pine Spring administration to learn about Pine Spring.

Grade-Level Breakouts

6:00 PM - 6:30 PM

3rd Grade: Gym

4th Grade: Library

5th Grade: Cafeteria 

6th Grade: Rm. 213

Learn about the FCPS curriculum, communication with teachers, and your child’s daily schedule.

Specialist Meet & Greet

6:30 PM - 7:00 PM

Cafeteria

Enjoy a "Round Robin" style meet and greet with our Mental Health team, AART, Library and Band/ Strings teachers. Get to know the specialists who will be engaging your children!

Save the Date

September 16: 3-Hour Early Release

September 17: Back to School Nights K-2

September 18:  Back to School Nights 3-6

September 20- Falls Church High School Homecoming 

September 27: Fall Pictures

September 27: PTA Dance

October 3: No School (Rosh Hashanah)

October 4: No School (Teacher Workday)

October 10: PTA Meeting (7:00 PM)

October 14: No School (Staff Development)

October 18-25: Book Fair 

October 21: 3-Hour Early Release

October 31: 2-hour early release (End of quarter)

November 1: No School (Diwali)

November 4-5: No School (Parent Conferences)

November 7: PTA Meeting (7:00 PM)

November 8: Veterans’ Celebration Concert

November 14: School Picture Makeups

November 18: 3-Hour Early Release

November 27-29: No School (Thanksgiving)

December 5: FLE Preview Night (5:00 PM)

December 5: PTA Meeting (7:00 PM)

December 12: Literacy Night

7607 Willow Lane Falls Church, VA 22042  | Main Office: 571-226-4400
Attendance: 571-226-4444 | Web | Twitter | Instagram

Pine Spring PTA News

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Afterschool Club Reminder Girls on the Run

GOTR has fun, evidence-based programs that inspire girls in 3rd-6th grade to build their confidence, kindness, and decision making skills. Dynamic lessons instill valuable life skills including the important connection between physical and emotional health.


Starting the week of September 23rd, the team will meet Wednesday & Friday before school at 7:45am. The program culminates in a celebratory 5K at the end of the season!


Since all PSES students receive free lunch when registering please indicate this to pay the fee of $22. This includes weekly lessons/practices, a t-shirt, a GOTR giveaway, entry into the 5K, a 5K medal, and more.


Please contact [email protected] to receive a code to register at no cost.


Register today at: https://www.gotrnova.org. Registration closes September 17th.


These materials are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or this school.

Join Pine Spring PTA

Are you looking for a way to get involved and make a real impact on your child’s education? Join the Pine Spring PTA today! For just $10 per family, you can become a member and help us create enriching programs, support our teachers, and build a stronger school community.

Becoming a member is easy! Visit BIT.LY/JOINPSPTA to sign up. Your membership helps fund essential resources and events that directly benefit our students. Every parent has something valuable to contribute, and we’d love to have you on board!

New Pine Spring PTA Website!

We're excited to introduce our brand-new Pine Spring PTA website, your go-to source for everything happening with our PTA! This brand new site is designed to make it easier than ever for parents, teachers, and community members to stay connected and engaged.

Here's what you'll find:

  • Event Calendar: Never miss a school event again! Our dynamic calendar keeps you updated on upcoming activities, PTA meetings, fundraisers, and community events.
  • Volunteer Opportunities: Discover meaningful ways to get involved. Whether you have a little time or a lot, there are plenty of opportunities to make a difference!
  • Resources for Parents: Access important documents, helpful guides, and essential school information in one convenient place.
  • News and Updates: Stay informed with the latest news from the PTA and Pine Spring Elementary. Get the scoop on initiatives, programs, and achievements.
  • Easy Membership and Donations: Join the PTA or make a donation online to support our students, teachers, and school programs.

Visit pinespringpta.com today to explore, connect, and engage with our amazing community! Your participation makes a difference – let's work together to create the best possible experience for every Pine Spring student!

7607 Willow Lane Falls Church, VA 22042  | Main Office: 571-226-4400
Attendance: 571-226-4444 | Web | Twitter | Instagram

Pine Spring AAP Updates

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AAP Topics Advanced Academic Programs (AAP) Elementary Continuum of Services

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. Through the continuum, students have: 

  • Multiple entry points for deeper learning opportunities in specific areas of need as they develop.  
  • A cluster group of students with similar academic needs to continue growing in their learning.  

Teachers, Advanced Academic Resource Teachers (AARTs), and school administrators work together to provide the following levels of service at the elementary level:  

Access to Rigor, Grades K-6

All students have opportunities to think critically, reason, and problem-solve.  

  • All teachers use critical and creative thinking strategies in their lessons. 
  • Classroom teachers provide opportunities using materials from the AAP Curriculum Framework a minimum of once per quarter. 

Because Access to Rigor is for all FCPS students, there is not a screening process. 

 

Subject-Specific Services, Grades K-6

Some students are strong in a specific subject area. Classroom teachers may adjust instruction for students in these area(s) by: 

  • Providing different assignments and resources in those subjects,
  • Grouping students by their strengths, interests, and readiness, and
  • Providing additional challenges using materials from the AAP Curriculum Framework.

Student needs for Subject-Specific differentiation are re-evaluated each year at the local school.  

 

Part-Time Services, Grades 3-6  

Some students have advanced academic needs in multiple subject areas in addition to specific subject differentiation. They need Part-Time AAP services.  

  • Students work with other students that have similar academic needs through weekly pull-out classes or weekly co-taught lessons with the AART and classroom teacher. 
  • Teachers provide frequent opportunities to use materials from the AAP Curriculum Framework in Language Arts, science, social studies, and/or mathematics. 

Part-Time services continue through Grade 6. Students do not need to be evaluated each year.  

Full-Time Services, Grades 3-8

Some advanced learners need a Full-Time advanced academic program with differentiated instruction in all four core content areas (Language Arts, mathematics, social studies, and science).  

Students eligible for Full-Time AAP services are cluster grouped on a Full-Time basis and receive: 

  • Full-Time use of materials from the AAP Curriculum Framework in Language Arts, mathematics, science, and social studies, and 
  • Curriculum that is differentiated through acceleration, depth, and complexity of content.  

Full-Time services continue through Grade 8. Students do not need to be evaluated each year. 

  

Screening for Advanced Academic Program Services 

Multiple data points are reviewed holistically to determine eligibility for all FCPS advanced academic services. Committees consider student work from opportunities with AAP lessons, examples of student reasoning or gifted behaviors from class discussions and activities, progress reports, achievement and ability scores, and parent input. Committees consider whether students have access to a group of students with similar academic needs to support academic conversations and growth in the classroom. No pieces of the data are weighted in the holistic screening process.   

 

Eligibility decisions for Subject-Specific and Part-Time AAP services are made by a committee at the local school, and screening is ongoing throughout the school year. To refer for Subject-Specific and Part-Time AAP services, submit the AAP School-Based Referral Form to the AART at the local school. 

 

Eligibility decisions for Full-Time services are made by the countywide central selection committee. 

 

Screening for Full-Time services occurs during specific screening cycles:   

  • Fall screening is available for students who are new to FCPS since January. 
    • The fall screening referral window is from the first day of school - October 15. 
  • Spring screening is available for any Grade 2-7 FCPS-enrolled student.  
    • The spring screening referral window is from the first day of school - December 15. 

 

Please do not wait for test scores before submitting a referral for your student in Grades 2-7. Referrals submitted after the Full-Time services referral windows noted above will not be accepted.   

 

Referral forms for all advanced academic program services are found at https://www.fcps.edu/node/38893

 

For more information, please visit the AAP website at: https://www.fcps.edu/registration/advanced-academics-identification-and-placement/current-fcps-students.   

 

Young Scholars 

The FCPS Young Scholars model seeks to identify and affirm, from an early age, students with high academic potential from groups historically underrepresented in advanced academic programming. The goal of the model is to eliminate barriers for Young Scholars’ access to and success in advanced academic opportunities in elementary, middle, and high school. 

 

Twice-Exceptional (2e) 

Some gifted students with advanced learning needs may also have a learning disability. Twice-exceptional (or “2e”) students need strengths-based instruction while receiving advanced programming. The FCPS continuum of AAP services provides multiple entry points to meet student needs while also supporting their learning challenges. FCPS has created a 2e handbook to help schools and families understand how to identify and serve 2e students. You can find these resources by going to www.fcps.edu and searching “2e.” 

 

Advanced Academic Programs in Middle and High School 

Middle School AAP  

Advanced coursework at the middle school level is open enrollment. All students are encouraged to enroll in at least one Honors course each school year in an area of strength and/or interest.  

 

Students eligible for the Full-Time services have the option to attend the middle school center assigned to their address or enroll in Honors courses in the four core content areas at their base school. 

 

High School AAP 

Advanced coursework at the high school level is open enrollment. All students are encouraged to enroll in at least one Honors course beginning in Grade 9. Each high school in FCPS offers AP, IB or Dual Enrollment courses which begin in Grade 10 or 11, depending on the program and the school. 

Additional information about middle and high school services may be found on the Advanced Academic Programs web page: https://www.fcps.edu/academics/academic-overview/advanced-academic-programs

Elementary Parent Information Meeting 

A parent information meeting will be held at Pine Spring on October 10th at 6:00 PM. The AART will provide information about the continuum of AAP services, explain the screening processes, and answer questions about advanced academic services. 

Ability Testing and Retakes

FCPS uses ability testing as one consideration of the holistic screening process for advanced academic services. Test scores are not weighted or prioritized in the holistic screening process.   

  • All students in Grade 1 take the Naglieri Nonverbal Ability Test (NNAT). 
  • All students in Grade 2 take the Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT).  
  • NNAT and/or CogAT may be administered to students in Grades 3-6 who do not have an ability test score during the regularly scheduled testing windows.   

Parents or guardians may request a one-time retest of either the CogAT or the NNAT in grades 3-6. Requests must be made during the fall testing windows. Please contact the school testing coordinator Jennifer Ganci at [email protected], no later than September 30 to request the CogAT or October 15 for the NNAT. 

7607 Willow Lane Falls Church, VA 22042  | Main Office: 571-226-4400
Attendance: 571-226-4444 | Web | Twitter | Instagram

Pine Spring Paw Print

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Paw Print Topics Fall Picture Day 9/27/24

📅 Date: Friday, September 27, 2024

📸 Pictures Available: Approximately two weeks after photo day

🛒 Pre-order Online: https://vando.imagequix.com/g1001138739#login

📧 Questions about Ordering? Email us at [email protected]

K-2 Back To School Nights 9/17/24

Calling all K-2 caregivers! Let's kick off the new school year with an evening dedicated to connecting, learning, and getting to know your child’s curriculum. This is an adult event and is not designed for children. 

Welcome for All K-2 Families

5:30 PM - 6:00 PM

Gym

Start the night with the Pine Spring administration to learn about Pine Spring.

Grade-Level Breakouts

6:00 PM - 6:30 PM

Kindergarten: Classroom

 1st Grade: Gym

2nd Grade: Library

Learn about the FCPS curriculum, communication with teachers, and your child’s daily schedule.

Specialist Meet & Greet

6:30 PM - 7:00 PM

Cafeteria

Enjoy a "Round Robin" style meet and greet with our Art, Music, and PE teachers. Get to know the specialists who will be engaging your children!

 

3-6 Back To School Nights 9/18/24

Calling all 3-6 caregivers! Let's kick off the new school year with an evening dedicated to connecting, learning, and getting to know your child’s curriculum. This is an adult event and is not designed for children. 

Welcome for All 3-6 Families

5:30 PM - 6:00 PM

Gym

Start the night with the Pine Spring administration to learn about Pine Spring.

Grade-Level Breakouts

6:00 PM - 6:30 PM

3rd Grade: Gym

4th Grade: Library

5th Grade: Cafeteria 

6th Grade: Rm. 213

Learn about the FCPS curriculum, communication with teachers, and your child’s daily schedule.

Specialist Meet & Greet

6:30 PM - 7:00 PM

Cafeteria

Enjoy a "Round Robin" style meet and greet with our Mental Health team, AART, Library and Band/ Strings teachers. Get to know the specialists who will be engaging your children!

🩹 Immunization Requirements 

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

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

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

  • A health care provider’s written statement specifying all administered immunizations.
  • A health care provider’s written statement of a permanent or temporary medical exemption.

A notarized Religious Exemption form objecting to the administration of immunizations due to conflicts with their religious tenets or practices.

Save the Date

September 16: 3-Hour Early Release

September 17: Back to School Nights K-2

September 18:  Back to School Nights 3-6

September 20- Falls Church High School Homecoming 

September 27: Fall Pictures

September 27: PTA Dance

October 3: No School (Rosh Hashanah)

October 4: No School (Teacher Workday)

October 10: PTA Meeting (7:00 PM)

October 14: No School (Staff Development)

October 18-25: Book Fair 

October 21: 3-Hour Early Release

October 31: 2-hour early release (End of quarter)

November 1: No School (Diwali)

November 4-5: No School (Parent Conferences)

November 7: PTA Meeting (7:00 PM)

November 8: Veterans’ Celebration Concert

November 14: School Picture Makeups

November 18: 3-Hour Early Release

November 27-29: No School (Thanksgiving)

December 5: FLE Preview Night (5:00 PM)

December 5: PTA Meeting (7:00 PM)

December 12: Literacy Night

7607 Willow Lane Falls Church, VA 22042  | Main Office: 571-226-4400
Attendance: 571-226-4444 | Web | Twitter | Instagram

Pine Spring PTA News

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PTA Meeting- Tomorrow 9/5

Tomorrow, Pine Spring will host its first PTA meeting of the year from 7 PM to 8 PM in the Pine Spring library. There is free childcare for school-aged students. 

 

Join Pine Spring PTA

Are you looking for a way to get involved and make a real impact on your child’s education? Join the Pine Spring PTA today! For just $10 per family, you can become a member and help us create enriching programs, support our teachers, and build a stronger school community.

Becoming a member is easy! Visit BIT.LY/JOINPSPTA to sign up. Your membership helps fund essential resources and events that directly benefit our students. Every parent has something valuable to contribute, and we’d love to have you on board!

New Pine Spring PTA Website!

We're excited to introduce our brand-new Pine Spring PTA website, your go-to source for everything happening with our PTA! This brand new site is designed to make it easier than ever for parents, teachers, and community members to stay connected and engaged.

Here's what you'll find:

  • Event Calendar: Never miss a school event again! Our dynamic calendar keeps you updated on upcoming activities, PTA meetings, fundraisers, and community events.
  • Volunteer Opportunities: Discover meaningful ways to get involved. Whether you have a little time or a lot, there are plenty of opportunities to make a difference!
  • Resources for Parents: Access important documents, helpful guides, and essential school information in one convenient place.
  • News and Updates: Stay informed with the latest news from the PTA and Pine Spring Elementary. Get the scoop on initiatives, programs, and achievements.
  • Easy Membership and Donations: Join the PTA or make a donation online to support our students, teachers, and school programs.

Visit pinespringpta.com today to explore, connect, and engage with our amazing community! Your participation makes a difference – let's work together to create the best possible experience for every Pine Spring student!

7607 Willow Lane Falls Church, VA 22042  | Main Office: 571-226-4400
Attendance: 571-226-4444 | Web | Twitter | Instagram

Pine Spring Paw Print

GovDelivery2 months 2 weeks ago

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Paw Print Topics 2024 Student Rights and Responsibilities 

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. 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 Monday, September 30

You can submit questions online regarding the SR&R.

SEL Screener

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

 After each screening, results are available in the Documents tab of SIS ParentVUE and mailed to families without a ParentVUE account. You can also learn more on the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage.

Primary Elementary (PreK-2) Academic Screening, Growth, and Diagnostic

Primary grade levels PreK-2 use different assessments to meet state and division requirements. Students in grades PreK-2 participate in literacy screeners required by the Virginia Literacy Act (VLA). Mathematics screeners fulfill a Virginia Kindergarten Readiness Program (VKRP) requirement for grades PreK-K and fulfill a FCPS Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) requirement for grades 1-2.

  • Virginia Language and Literacy Screening System (VALLSS) is used with all Grade PreK-2 students in fall, winter, and spring
  • Early Mathematics Assessment System (EMAS) is used with all Grade  PreK and Kindergarten students in fall and spring 

iReady Math is used with all Grade 1-2 students in fall and spring; students whose fall score is below benchmark will also retest in the winter.

Upper Elementary (3-6) Academic Screening, Growth, and Diagnostic

Upper elementary grade levels 3-6 use different assessments to meet state requirements. Reading screeners and additional diagnostics fulfill Virginia Literacy Act (VLA) requirements. Mathematics screeners fulfill FCPS Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) requirements. Screening tests at these grades also serve as growth assessments to fulfill Virginia Assessment Program (VAP) requirements.

  • iReady Math is used in fall, winter, and spring with all Grade 3-6 students scheduled to take a spring SOL test
  • iReady Reading is used in fall, winter, and spring with all Grade 3-6 students scheduled to take a spring SOL test
  • Virginia Language and Literacy Screening System (VALLSS) is used as a state screener for select Grade 3 students each window
    • In fall, VALLSS is used with students new to Virginia public schools and students who are identified for a reading plan based on their iReady Reading score 
    • In winter and spring, VALLSS is used with students whose fall VALLSS scores showed a need for support. 
  • iReady Passage Reading Fluency (PRF) diagnostic is used with Grade 4-6 students who are identified for a reading plan based on their iReady Reading score 
  • CORE Phonics Inventory diagnostic is used with Grade 4-6 students whose iReady PRF result is below benchmark 
  • Developmental Spelling Assessment (DSA) diagnostic is used in fall and and spring with all Grade 4-6 students 
Safety Drills During the School Year

Keeping students and staff safe is a priority for all of us. We have a crisis management and emergency preparedness plan for our school that is reviewed and updated regularly. Our plan includes procedures on how to respond to incidents such as fires and tornadoes. Students and staff regularly practice these drills every school year. We also practice lockdown drills.

A new Virginia Law (22.1-137.2) requires schools to notify parents at least 24 hours before a school practices a lockdown drill. However, we are not required to share the exact date and time of the drill. We are required to practice lockdown drills two times a year. FCPS lockdown drills do not include any type of active shooter scenario training, they are instruction and classroom based.

We will conduct a lockdown drill at our school soon. Our pre-kindergarten and kindergarten students are exempt from mandatory participation in lockdown drills during the first 60 days of the school year. They will participate in our second and final drill later this school year.

Additional information on our lockdown drill program to include parent tips and FAQs can be found on the Emergency Planning and Crisis Response web page. After reviewing this content, you should discuss the value of these safety drills with your child.

Keeping our school safe and secure for all students and staff involves the participation of the entire school community, and we thank you for your help to keep our school safe. 

Save the Date

September 5: PTA Meeting (7:00 PM) 

September 16: 3-Hour Early Release

September 17: Back to School Nights K-2

September 18:  Back to School Nights 3-6

September 20- Falls Church High School Homecoming 

September 27: Fall Pictures

September 27: PTA Dance

October 3: No School (Rosh Hashanah)

October 4: No School (Teacher Workday)

October 10: PTA Meeting (7:00 PM)

October 14: No School (Staff Development)

October 18-25: Book Fair 

October 21: 3-Hour Early Release

October 31: 2-hour early release (End of quarter)

November 1: No School (Diwali)

November 4-5: No School (Parent Conferences)

November 7: PTA Meeting (7:00 PM)

November 8: Veterans’ Celebration Concert

November 14: School Picture Makeups

November 18: 3-Hour Early Release

November 27-29: No School (Thanksgiving)

December 5: FLE Preview Night (5:00 PM)

December 5: PTA Meeting (7:00 PM)

December 12: Literacy Night

7607 Willow Lane Falls Church, VA 22042  | Main Office: 571-226-4400
Attendance: 571-226-4444 | Web | Twitter | Instagram

Pine Spring Paw Print

GovDelivery2 months 3 weeks ago

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Paw Print Topics Everything You Can Do Through SIS ParentVUE

Want to easily access back-to-school forms and checklists? Log in to your SIS ParentVUE account to find forms and make updates.

Update Contact Information

Be among the first to know about weather closings, bus delays, and other critical communications from your school and FCPS by providing your cell phone number and email in SIS ParentVUE. To update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE, click the “Online Packets” tab in the upper right of the screen, then click the “Online Verification/Update” icon. 

Parents/caregivers who do not have a SIS ParentVUE account should print and complete the Emergency Care Information Form (PDF) and submit it to their child’s school.

Complete Permission Forms

Families can now easily give permission for their children to access a variety of school resources through the Parent Digital Consent system. This online tool can be accessed using your SIS ParentVUE account. Parents can easily opt their child in or out of resources including online educational tools, school counseling services, and tutoring services. They can also change how student information is managed.

Visit the Parent Digital Consent webpage to access the system. Watch this video to see how to use the tool

Submit Absences

Parents can submit daylong absences through SIS ParentVUE. Log in and click “Report Absence.” Note: Partial day absences and changes of transportation should still be reported directly to the school front office. 

Don’t Have a SIS ParentVUE Account Yet?Contact your school for an activation code and follow the directions on the SIS ParentVUE Account webpageSafe Arrival and Dismissal Procedures

Please keep in mind that all cars coming to Pine Spring during arrival and dismissal must go through the Kiss and Ride line. No cars can park and bring their children into the school.

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) 446-2050 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

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.

Update Your Child’s Immunizations and Records

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

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

If your child needs a vaccine, please make an appointment with your healthcare provider, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or access other local services. If needed, families may also provide other immunization documentation including a healthcare provider’s written statement of a permanent or temporary medical exemption or a notarized Religious Exemption Form. 

Find more information on immunizations on the FCPS website. 

Labor Day

Friday, August 30, and Monday, September 2, 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.

Lunch

This year, we kindly ask that you refrain from bringing in or having fast food delivered during lunch. Our goal is to create a healthy and focused environment for all students, and we believe that minimizing distractions and promoting nutritious meals are important steps in that direction.

We know how much students love to see their family members during the school day, and we value the special bond that lunchtime visits can create. However, lunch is also a crucial time for children to work on their socialization skills with peers. To support this, we ask that visits are limited to one time per week, with only one person joining your child per visit, to ensure there is enough space for everyone.

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work together to provide the best possible environment for all our students.

Thank You Fairfax 9-1-1 Dispatch

 

A huge shoutout to the incredible Fairfax 9-1-1 Dispatch Center for their fantastic contribution of school supplies for our Bobcats! Fairfax 9-1-1 has been a dedicated supporter of Pine Spring Elementary for over a decade, and we couldn't be more thrilled and grateful for their unwavering support!

Headstart First Day 

Monday is the first day for our almost 40 Headstart students. We ask that families who use Door 1 to enter the building be  patient as our youngest Bobcats learn the routine of entering the school for the first week.

Headstart Dismissal

Headstart walkers will be dismissed from the rear cafeteria door again this year. Please remember that these students can only be released to an adult who is 18 or older AND on the emergency care card.  

Save The Date

Aug 31-Sept 2: Labor Day Break (Student and Staff Holidays)

September 5: PTA Meeting (7:00 PM) 

September 16: 3-Hour Early Release

September 17: Back to School Nights K-2

September 18:  Back to School Nights 3-6

September 20- Falls Church High School Homecoming 

September 27: Fall Pictures

September 27: PTA Dance

October 3: No School (Rosh Hashanah)

October 4: No School (Teacher Workday)

October 10: PTA Meeting (7:00 PM)

October 14: No School (Staff Development)

October 18-25: Book Fair 

October 21: 3-Hour Early Release

October 31: 2-hour early release (End of quarter)

November 1: No School (Diwali)

November 4-5: No School (Parent Conferences)

November 7: PTA Meeting (7:00 PM)

November 8: Veterans’ Celebration Concert

November 14: School Picture Makeups

November 18: 3-Hour Early Release

November 27-29: No School (Thanksgiving)

December 5: FLE Preview Night (5:00 PM)

December 5: PTA Meeting (7:00 PM)

December 12: Literacy Night

7607 Willow Lane Falls Church, VA 22042  | Main Office: 571-226-4400
Attendance: 571-226-4444 | Web | Twitter | Instagram

Pine Spring Paw Print

GovDelivery3 months ago

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

Paw Print Topics First Day

The first day is always a special day for our students. To ensure a smooth start, we kindly request your cooperation with a few important guidelines:

  • Please have your child arrive at school using their regular transportation method on the first day. Consistency helps establish a positive routine from day one.
  • Discuss with your child their planned method of transportation for going home. Clear communication ensures a successful dismissal process.
  • It's essential for all children to confidently share their first and last names to ensure we can guide them to the correct morning location. For students in grades K and 1, please write their first and last name inside their backpacks using the name provided during registration. For example, if your child's name is John Robert but goes by JR, please write John Robert in the backpack. This will help to eliminate any confusion.
Bus Riders

If your child is going to take the bus, you will receive communication from transportation with your child’s bus number, stop, and approximate times. During the first week, your child should arrive at the bus stop 10 minutes early until the bus driver establishes a regular routine. We encourage you to practice going to your bus stop before the first day of school to help eliminate any additional first-day jitters. 

Here Comes the Bus® 

FCPS knows that knowing when the bus is coming is an important part of your morning and afternoon. You can download the app to know when your bus is approaching your stop.  Here Comes the Bus® app is a school bus tracking app that can simplify morning and afternoon routines for parents and students by giving them real-time bus location and text or email notification alerts, helping them get to the bus stop on time. You can get additional information about the app and how to download it here.

Kiss and Ride

If you are planning to use Kiss and Ride during the school year, we ask that you please have a tag. If you previously had a Kiss and Ride tag, you will continue to use your current number. If you are new to Kiss and Ride, please complete the Kiss and Ride form. Please note that Kiss and Ride will take longer during the first week. We ask that you continue to be patient and allow extra time.

The Kiss and Ride process will remain the same as the last 3 years with one small change. 

AM Drop-off 

  • Cars will pull to the front of the building with their student on the passenger side of the car if at all possible. (We do understand that some families have babies that need to be in that seat.)
  • A Pine Spring team member will open your child’s door and ensure your child gets into the building. Please do not get out of your car. 
  • We ask that you have said goodbye to your child and ensured that your child has everything they need for the day before you get to the drop-off zone. This ensures that all families are able to get through the line in a timely manner. 
  • This year Kiss and Ride will close at 8:40 AM. Families who come after 8:40 AM will need to bring their child into the building. Children coming after 8:40 must be accompanied by an adult.  

PM Pick-up 

  • Cars will line up in the Kiss and Ride line outside of the main door, where you dropped your child off. We ask that you do not line up for pickup before 3 PM. 
  • A staff member will collect your tag number (or your child’s name for the first week). 
  • Once dismissal begins, children will come out of the building in the order of your arrival once you stop at the designated cones. 
  • Again, a team member will open your door so that your child can get into the car. 
  • If your child does not come out in time, or if your child still needs support with their seatbelt/car seat you will pull to the designated area so that you can park the car to wait/support your child. 
  • Please do not go around a car in line unless you are directed by a Pine Spring staff member. 
Walkers

Walkers Arrival 

  • We will welcome PreK-K students starting at 8:30AM at Door 1.
  • We will welcome 1st-6th students starting at 8:30AM at Door 6.
  • We will have staff stationed outside to support the transition.

Walkers Dismissal 

  • Parents of PreK walkers will be asked to meet their child at outside of the cafeteria. 
  • Parents of K walkers will be asked to meet their child at the library door across from the flagpole.

Parents of 1st-6th walkers will be asked to meet their child at Door 6 near the playground.

 

*All students in Kindergarten or younger must be picked up by an adult on their emergency care card each day. Students in kindergarten or younger not picked up by an adult from the bus will be returned to Pine Spring. 

First Day Packets
  • A packet of information will be sent home on the first day of school in our new Wednesday Folder. Please complete all mandatory forms in the folder and return both the folder and the forms to school by Friday, August 23. 
  • The Wednesday Folder will be sent home each Wednesday.  Please be sure that you check these envelopes each week and review the contents with your child. The folder should be returned each week.
New Assistant Principal, Ms. Wallace

We are pleased to officially welcome Ms. Wallace as the newest Assistant Principal at Pine Spring. With over 20 years of experience in education, Ms. Wallace brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her new role. She holds a master's degree in Special Education, as well as a master's in Administration and Supervision. For the past two years, she has served as the Dean of Special Services at Pine Spring, where she has demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting both students and staff. Ms. Wallace is eager to continue her dedicated work in her new capacity as Assistant Principal.

📵 Phones Down, Engagement Up: FCPS Cell Phone Policy

Keeping cell phones off during the school day helps students focus and learn. It also boosts positive social behavior. Review FCPS’ cell phone expectations by grade level with your child and help keep our classrooms free of distractions! If you need to reach your child during the school day, please call our main office at 751-226-4400.

Annual Notice of Survey, Records, Curriculum, Privacy, and Related Rights

Fairfax County Public Schools wants all parents and caregivers to understand its policies regarding surveys, records, curriculum, privacy, and related rights.

In its Annual Notice of Survey, Records, Curriculum, Privacy, and Related Rights and Opt-Out Forms (Annual Notice), FCPS provides explanations of the rights listed above as well as forms that may be used to exercise opt-out choices. Two versions of the Annual Notice are available: a grades K-8 version and a grades 9-12 version. Parents/caregivers with children at different grade levels should read each applicable version of the Annual Notice, because the notices and opt-out rights vary depending on the student’s grade level.

Get more information and view the 2024-25 Opt-Out Booklets.

Update Your Child’s Immunizations and Records

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

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

If your child needs a vaccine, please make an appointment with your healthcare provider, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or access other local services. If needed, families may also provide other immunization documentation including a healthcare provider’s written statement of a permanent or temporary medical exemption or a notarized Religious Exemption Form. 

Find more information on immunizations on the FCPS website.

3-Hour Early Release

 Please remember to complete this form for each child in your home. While we anticipate that most students will go home after school, we understand that some families may need additional support with childcare on these days.  Completing this form will allow us to coordinate child care on these days while our teachers attend state required trainings. 

The scheduled Early Release Mondays are:

  • September 16
  • October 21
  • November 18
  • February 10
  • March 10
  • April 21
  • May 12
Mark Your Calendars

August 19: First Day of School

August 20- September 2: Labor Day Break

September 5: PTA Meeting (7PM)

September 16: 3-Hour Early Release

September 17: Back to School Night (K-2)

September 18: Back to School Night (3-6)

September 27: Fall School Portraits

September 27: PTA Fall Dance 

7607 Willow Lane Falls Church, VA 22042  | Main Office: 571-226-4400
Attendance: 571-226-4444 | Web | Twitter | Instagram

Pine Spring Paw Print

GovDelivery3 months ago

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

Paw Print Topics First Day

The first day is always a special day for our students. To ensure a smooth start, we kindly request your cooperation with a few important guidelines:

  • Please have your child arrive at school using their regular transportation method on the first day. Consistency helps establish a positive routine from day one.
  • Discuss with your child their planned method of transportation for going home. Clear communication ensures a successful dismissal process.
  • It's essential for all children to confidently share their first and last names to ensure we can guide them to the correct morning location. For students in grades K and 1, please write their first and last name inside their backpacks using the name provided during registration. For example, if your child's name is John Robert but goes by JR, please write John Robert in the backpack. This will help to eliminate any confusion.
Bus Riders

If your child is going to take the bus, you will receive communication from transportation with your child’s bus number, stop, and approximate times. During the first week, your child should arrive at the bus stop 10 minutes early until the bus driver establishes a regular routine. We encourage you to practice going to your bus stop before the first day of school to help eliminate any additional first-day jitters. 

Here Comes the Bus® 

FCPS knows that knowing when the bus is coming is an important part of your morning and afternoon. You can download the app to know when your bus is approaching your stop.  Here Comes the Bus® app is a school bus tracking app that can simplify morning and afternoon routines for parents and students by giving them real-time bus location and text or email notification alerts, helping them get to the bus stop on time. You can get additional information about the app and how to download it here.

Kiss and Ride

If you are planning to use Kiss and Ride during the school year, we ask that you please have a tag. If you previously had a Kiss and Ride tag, you will continue to use your current number. If you are new to Kiss and Ride, please complete the Kiss and Ride form. Please note that Kiss and Ride will take longer during the first week. We ask that you continue to be patient and allow extra time.

The Kiss and Ride process will remain the same as the last 3 years with one small change. 

AM Drop-off 

  • Cars will pull to the front of the building with their student on the passenger side of the car if at all possible. (We do understand that some families have babies that need to be in that seat.)
  • A Pine Spring team member will open your child’s door and ensure your child gets into the building. Please do not get out of your car. 
  • We ask that you have said goodbye to your child and ensured that your child has everything they need for the day before you get to the drop-off zone. This ensures that all families are able to get through the line in a timely manner. 
  • This year Kiss and Ride will close at 8:40 AM. Families who come after 8:40 AM will need to bring their child into the building. Children coming after 8:40 must be accompanied by an adult.  

PM Pick-up 

  • Cars will line up in the Kiss and Ride line outside of the main door, where you dropped your child off. We ask that you do not line up for pickup before 3 PM. 
  • A staff member will collect your tag number (or your child’s name for the first week). 
  • Once dismissal begins, children will come out of the building in the order of your arrival once you stop at the designated cones. 
  • Again, a team member will open your door so that your child can get into the car. 
  • If your child does not come out in time, or if your child still needs support with their seatbelt/car seat you will pull to the designated area so that you can park the car to wait/support your child. 
  • Please do not go around a car in line unless you are directed by a Pine Spring staff member. 
Walkers

Walkers Arrival 

  • We will welcome PreK-K students starting at 8:30AM at Door 1.
  • We will welcome 1st-6th students starting at 8:30AM at Door 6.
  • We will have staff stationed outside to support the transition.

Walkers Dismissal 

  • Parents of PreK walkers will be asked to meet their child at outside of the cafeteria. 
  • Parents of K walkers will be asked to meet their child at the library door across from the flagpole.

Parents of 1st-6th walkers will be asked to meet their child at Door 6 near the playground.

 

*All students in Kindergarten or younger must be picked up by an adult on their emergency care card each day. Students in kindergarten or younger not picked up by an adult from the bus will be returned to Pine Spring. 

First Day Packets
  • A packet of information will be se3rnt home on the first day of school in our new Wednesday Folder. Please complete all mandatory forms in the folder and return both the folder and the forms to school by Friday, August 23. 
  • The Wednesday Folder will be sent home each Wednesday.  Please be sure that you check these envelopes each week and review the contents with your child. The folder should be returned each week.
New Assistant Principal, Ms. Wallace

We are pleased to officially welcome Ms. Wallace as the newest Assistant Principal at Pine Spring. With over 20 years of experience in education, Ms. Wallace brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her new role. She holds a master's degree in Special Education, as well as a master's in Administration and Supervision. For the past two years, she has served as the Dean of Special Services at Pine Spring, where she has demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting both students and staff. Ms. Wallace is eager to continue her dedicated work in her new capacity as Assistant Principal.

📵 Phones Down, Engagement Up: FCPS Cell Phone Policy

Keeping cell phones off during the school day helps students focus and learn. It also boosts positive social behavior. Review FCPS’ cell phone expectations by grade level with your child and help keep our classrooms free of distractions! If you need to reach your child during the school day, please call our main office at 751-226-4400.

Annual Notice of Survey, Records, Curriculum, Privacy, and Related Rights

Fairfax County Public Schools wants all parents and caregivers to understand its policies regarding surveys, records, curriculum, privacy, and related rights.

In its Annual Notice of Survey, Records, Curriculum, Privacy, and Related Rights and Opt-Out Forms (Annual Notice), FCPS provides explanations of the rights listed above as well as forms that may be used to exercise opt-out choices. Two versions of the Annual Notice are available: a grades K-8 version and a grades 9-12 version. Parents/caregivers with children at different grade levels should read each applicable version of the Annual Notice, because the notices and opt-out rights vary depending on the student’s grade level.

Get more information and view the 2024-25 Opt-Out Booklets.

Update Your Child’s Immunizations and Records

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

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

If your child needs a vaccine, please make an appointment with your healthcare provider, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or access other local services. If needed, families may also provide other immunization documentation including a healthcare provider’s written statement of a permanent or temporary medical exemption or a notarized Religious Exemption Form. 

Find more information on immunizations on the FCPS website.

3-Hour Early Release

 Please remember to complete this form for each child in your home. While we anticipate that most students will go home after school, we understand that some families may need additional support with childcare on these days.  Completing this form will allow us to coordinate child care on these days while our teachers attend state required trainings. 

The scheduled Early Release Mondays are:

  • September 16
  • October 21
  • November 18
  • February 10
  • March 10
  • April 21
  • May 12
Mark Your Calendars

August 19: First Day of School

August 20- September 2: Labor Day Break

September 5: PTA Meeting (7PM)

September 16: 3-Hour Early Release

September 17: Back to School Night (K-2)

September 18: Back to School Night (3-6)

September 27: Fall School Portraits

September 27: PTA Fall Dance 

7607 Willow Lane Falls Church, VA 22042  | Main Office: 571-226-4400
Attendance: 571-226-4444 | Web | Twitter | Instagram

Pine Spring Paw Print

GovDelivery3 months ago

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

Paw Print Topics: PTA Playdate- August 17th Open House- August 15th

Each year we welcome families into the building the Thursday before school starts for you to have an opportunity to meet your child’s teacher, and see their classroom. We received a great deal of positive feedback about the less crowded classroom approach that we used last year, so we will use this format again this year. We believe that it lowered the stress for our youngest students, as they transition into school. 

  • You will meet your child's teacher and visit the classroom to explore the safe and welcoming environment that our incredible teachers have created. 
  • If you cannot attend the Open House, staff members will be available on the first day of school to assist students in locating their classrooms. You could also look it up in your ParentVue account. 
  • You are welcome to bring your child’s school supplies so they do not have to bring them on the first day. If you purchased your supplies through the PTA, they will already be delivered to your child’s classroom before the first day of school. 
  • While we understand that the schedule below may not be the most convenient for all families, we have prioritized a safe and low-stress opportunity for all children to walk into the building for the first time. We ask for your patience and understanding.
  • Please note that only teachers of the assigned time will be in their room, as all other teachers will be assisting you to your new classrooms. We ask that all students stay with their caregivers for the duration of the Open House.
Grade Level

Times to Meet the Teacher

PreK 

Kindergarten

9:00 AM- 9:15 AM

Enter through Door 1

 

1st Grade

2nd Grade

9:25 AM-9:40 AM

1st Grade: Enter through Door 1

2nd Grade: Enter through Door 6

 

3rd Grade

6th Grade

 

9:50 AM-10:05 AM (Meet Teacher #1)

10:05 AM-10:20 AM (Meet Teacher #2)

3rd Grade: Enter through Door 6

6th Grade: Go to 6th Grade Trailers

 

4th Grade 

5th Grade

 

10:30 AM- 10:45 AM (Meet Teacher #1)

10:45 AM -11:00 AM (Meet Teacher #2)

4th Grade: Enter through Door 6

5th Grade: Enter through Door 1

 

 

3-Hour Early Release

Each Pine Spring family should have received a link regarding our upcoming 3-hour early release days. Please remember to complete one form for each child. While we anticipate that most students will go home after school, we understand that some families may need additional support with childcare on these days.  Completing this form will allow us to coordinate care on these days. If you need support, we will have a table near the playground tomorrow to help you complete the form during Open House. 

 

The scheduled Early Release Mondays are:

  • September 16
  • October 21
  • November 18
  • February 10
  • March 10
  • April 21
  • May 12
Bell Schedule

Students will be welcomed into the building promptly at 8:30 AM, with the late bell ringing at 8:45 AM. We will release all students starting at 3:30 PM each day.

Additionally, please note that Kiss and Ride will close at 8:40 AM after the first week of school. This adjustment will provide students with a valuable 5 minutes to travel to their classrooms and be fully prepared for a productive day of learning. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding in adhering to this schedule change.

Stay Connected

Pine Spring is working to ensure that families are well connected. We use a variety of platforms to provide you with the type of information you are looking for about your child. Below is a brief explanation of what you can expect from each of these avenues of communication. 

eNotify

Critical and timely information will be shared through eNotify. Every family is automatically enrolled in eNotify with the email you provided when you registered your child. This platform is used by both Pine Spring and other FCPS departments to communicate information such as school closures, emergency information, attendance information, and critical health information. Please be sure that your email is up-to-date in your ParentVue account.

 SIS ParentVUE

This platform is used for you to access information about your child such as homeroom teacher, attendance, county assessment results. You can also use this platform to update information such as your contact information and your child’s emergency contact information. If you need support setting up this platform, please contact our front office at 571-226-4400. 

News You Choose

This is a weekly email from Principal Yacubovich. This is our primary method of communication used for noncritical information with families. You will find information about important news, upcoming events, answers to frequently asked questions, PTA events and information, and stories about things happening in the building.  Do you know someone who hasn't signed up for NYC yet? If so, please encourage them to subscribe here

Talking Points

Teachers use the Talking Points messenger app, which allows teachers and staff to connect and communicate with families via text messaging directly to their phones and in their native languages.  Teachers will share information on how to sign up for Talking Points. 

Schoology

Schoology is FCPS' Learning Management System that replaced Google Classroom.  In this platform, you will be able to find information about the curriculum, assignments, due dates, and other information about what your child is doing in class. Your child’s teacher will discuss this platform during our virtual Back to School Night.

CEP Program

As we prepare for the upcoming school year at Pine Spring, we continue to be a Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) school. Through this program, all students at Pine Spring are eligible to receive no-cost breakfast and lunch throughout the school year, regardless of their family's income.

What You Need to Know About CEP:

  • CEP is a USDA program that ensures every child at Pine Spring has access to nutritious meals, creating a healthy and supportive learning environment. Your child will have the same meal options as non-CEP schools.
  • All students at Pine Spring are provided with a free breakfast and lunch each day. You do not need to apply for the program. 
Save The Date

8/15- Open House

8/17- PTA Playdate

8/19- First Day of School

8/30- 9/2- Labor Day Break (No School)

7607 Willow Lane Falls Church, VA 22042  | Main Office: 571-226-4400
Attendance: 571-226-4444 | Web | Twitter | Instagram

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Pine Spring Elementary School News and announcements
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