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Bonnie Brae ES: Family Newsletter

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Hello, Scottie families!

Thank you to our PTO for a fun and informative assembly this morning, titled, “I Love to Read!” This was a fantastic lead in to the PTO Read-a-Thon fundraiser. See below for more information on the Read-a-Thon and how to register your student.

Next week on Friday, February 28, we have our next SCA Spirit Day, Dress to Impress. Come dressed to impress, or wear Bonnie Brae colors of blue and white!

Have a wonderful weekend!

Morgan Birge, Principal

Natalie Vershaw, Assistant Principal

Melissa Johnson, Assistant Principal

Family. Relationships. Success.

February 24 - Three-Hour Early Release Monday, 12:15 PM
February 28 - SCA Spirit Day: Dress to Impress

Positivity Project

Upcoming Weekly Focus: Humility

Character Strengths: You do not seek the spotlight. You let your actions speak for themselves.

Quote of the Week: “It is unwise to be too sure of one’s own wisdom. It is
healthy to be reminded that the strongest might weaken and the wisest might err.”

-MAHATMA GANDHI

Positivity Project for Families

Families can find resources to help continue the discussion of character strengths at home by visiting the Positivity Project for Families webpage.

A few amazing highlights that happened this week...

Creating a story by coding characters!

Kindergarten scientists hard at work!

Early Release Monday – February 24, 2025

A reminder that our next 3-hour early release day is Monday, February 24. Families should have received an individualized email with their student's prior early release plan. Any changes or questions related to your child's early release plan for February 24 should be sent to [email protected]. Changes to your child's early release plan should have been requested prior to Wednesday, February 19, to ensure updates are communicated to our staff.

Ramadan

Ramadan begins at sundown on Friday, February 28. This day is an evening-only observance day. There is school on these days, but certain activities that cannot be made up can not take place after school. See the complete school year calendar.

Throughout the year, as we celebrate and recognize various cultural holidays and observances, families are encouraged to contact their child’s principal regarding accommodations, including but not limited to those around lunch, prayer/meditation and silent reflection spaces and times, and instruction.

Kindergarten Orientation-Save the Date

Do you have a rising kindergartener? Join us for our Bonnie Brae Kindergarten Orientation on Tuesday, April 1, 9-10:30 AM.

Learn about kindergarten, meet our staff, tour the building, and experience a school bus.

Coding is fun when collaborating with others!

Order Our 2024-2025 Bonnie Brae Yearbook!

Bonnie Brae yearbooks are officially on sale! All orders (online only) are due by April 4, 2025. Soft cover yearbooks are $18, hard cover yearbooks are $24, and there is an option to add a foil name stamp for an additional $4. These prices are for all yearbooks purchased by April 4, 2025.

To order a Bonnie Brae ES Yearbook via credit card online, visit https://www.buytheyearbook.com/en/bty/findmyschool and use School ID Number 725788.

We will have a limited number of yearbooks for sale on-site in June at a cost of $20 per soft cover yearbook (no hard cover yearbooks will be sold on-site).

Yearbooks are expected to arrive late-May/early June.

Visit the Bonnie Brae Yearbook webpage for details.

Best Buddies Friendship Walk

Join us, the SUPER SCOTTIES, as we participate in the Best Buddies Friendship Walk on the National Mall in Washington, DC on April 26. The Best Buddies Friendship Walk raises funds and awareness for the inclusion of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Our Scottie family is so excited to be participating in the walk this year and joining with others, in investing in a world where people with IDD are fully accepted and integrated into society. Visit the Best Buddies Friendship Walk page to learn more about this event!

Our Scottie community can join us either by donating, or by joining our team and walking with us. Visit our Super Scotties Fundraiser page to donate or join our team!

VDH Immunization Packets for Rising 7th Graders

As required by the Code of Virginia, parents or legal guardians need to provide proof of immunizations for their child to attend public school. All students entering seventh grade are required to receive one dose of each of the following immunizations:

Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis booster (Tdap) given at age 7 or older.
Meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY) given at age 10 or older.
A complete series of 2 doses of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.

After reviewing educational materials approved by the Board of Health, the parent or guardian, at the parents/guardians sole discretion, may elect for the child not to receive the HPV vaccine.

Parents/guardians are encouraged to plan ahead by scheduling an appointment with their child’s health care provider now to avoid the rush this summer. If your child does not have a health care provider, please visit the FCPS Immunizations Resource page to find out where to get an immunization.

Please review the Virginia Department of Health Information Packet for more information on rising 7th grade immunization requirements.

Kindergarten scientists observed what happens when water is added to a sugar cube.

Middle School Transition Fair Future Planning for Elementary and Middle School Students in Special Education

For families, caregivers, and educators of students receiving special education services.

It’s never too early or too late to start preparing for your future. We want to help you start planning for a successful transition from school to life as a young adult. Ensuring postsecondary success of our students with disabilities is dependent on what is known as transition planning. Please join CTS and other support service personnel for an evening focused on planning for the future.

You will have the opportunity to meet and ask questions of representatives from CTS programs and services for students with disabilities, as well as learn about short and long-term postsecondary supports, employment, postsecondary education considerations, Supported Decision Making, and student self-determination as an evidence-based predictor of post school success.

This event also includes two speakers who will discuss IEP transition planning, special education services, and postsecondary options for younger students as they navigate FCPS and plan for their future. A questions/answer session will follow.

March 12, 2025 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Luther Jackson Middle School 3020 Gallows Road, Falls Church, Virginia 22042

Click here to register: http://bit.ly/3Cjke4b

See Middle School Transition event flyer:

Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

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

Breaking Down the Budget: Supporting Academic Growth and Algebra by Eighth Grade

The FCPS Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Proposed Budget invests in academic growth and excellence for each and every student, which is one of the priorities of the FCPS Strategic Plan.

Since the 2023-24 school year, FCPS has seen a 9.5% increase in eighth graders taking Algebra I or more advanced math and a 6.8% increase in fifth graders in advanced math.

Studies show that students who complete algebra in middle school have more opportunities to take advanced math and science courses in high school. This can open up new academic paths for students! Watch a video that shows why eighth grade algebra matters.

Learn more about the FCPS FY 2026 Proposed Budget.

Read-a-thon Fundraiser - REGISTER NOW for PRIZES!

Our biggest fundraiser of the year kicks off next week! Register NOW to start earning prizes! When 75% of your Scottie's class registers online, all students in that class will win a PRIZE! Reading tracking starts Monday Feb 24th, but registration is open TODAY!

Biggest Highlights:

Nearly ALL funds raised come back directly to our Scottie community
Registration is FREE and prizes can be earned by minutes read OR funds raised
Funds raised support tech updates, staff support/appreciation, field trip buses, school assemblies, and so much more!

Register HERE today! It takes just two minutes to register, then share your Scottie's donation link with family and friends! It couldn't be easier.

View our Read-a-thon Fundraiser flyer for more details

Chipotle Restaurant Night - COMING SOON!

Take the night off from cooking and join our Scottie friends for a yummy dinner at Chipotle! Make sure to show the flier to ensure 25% of sales comes back to the PTO!

When: Wednesday, March 12, 4-8PM

Where: Chipotle, 5747 Burke Centre Pkwy, Burke

Online Fundraiser Code: XZHBQBJ

OPEN BOARD POSITIONS

Be a part of making our Scottie community so amazing by joining the PTO! Make new friends, serve your community, and help make magical memories for your kiddos!

Nominations will be made at the March PTO Meeting (3/19) and Voting will occur at the May PTO Meeting (5/21). The following board positions are open for 2025-2026:

Treasurer Backfill: Learn from the BEST! Our current Treasurer will roll off next year as she says farewell to Bonnie Brae, so train under her and offer support for next year!

Co-VP Programs: Do you love our awesome after school clubs? We'll need a new lead to keep them running next year!

Co-VP Fundraising: Help raise funds for all the amazing things we offer throughout the year!

President-Elect: Train under the 25-26 President so you'll be ready to rock and roll as President the following year!

Papa John's Fundraiser - EVERY MONDAY!!

Support the PTO with this great deal!

Order online and get 40% OFF all regular menu prices and Papa John's will donate 10% of sales to the PTO! View the Papa John's Fundraiser flyer for more details.

When: EVERY MONDAY (expires June 9, 2025)

Where: Papa John's Burke

MUST USE PROMO CODE: BBES4010

PTO Subscription Calendar

We're catching up with technology and cutting down on paper waste! Help us save trees and reduce flyers for every event/fundraiser by subscribing to the PTO Calendar. Visit our website here for instructions: https://www.bonniebraepto.org/calendar

March 4 - 3rd Quarter Interims Sent Home
March 12 - Chipotle Restaurant Night, 4-8 PM
March 17 - Three-Hour Early Release Monday, 12:15 PM
March 19 - PTO Meeting, 6-7:30 PM (Cafeteria)
March 27 - Staff Basketball Game, 6-8 PM (Robinson Secondary)
March 28 - Last Day of Third Quarter
March 28 - SCA Spirit Day: Multiples Day
March 31 - Holiday, Eid-al-Fitr (no school for students and staff)
April 1 - Teacher Workday (no school for students)
April 1 - Kindergarten Orientation, 9-10:30 AM
April 2 - 4th Quarter Begins

Stay up to date on all things BBES! Subscribe to our School Calendar.

FCPS Standard School Year Calendar

Printable FCPS 2024-25 School Calendar (PDF)

Bonnie Brae ES: PTO Meeting, Read-a-thon, & Cardinal Gym. Fundraiser

GovDelivery2 days 15 hours ago

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In-Person PTO Meeting - TONIGHT!

Come join us for just an hour out of your month to get connected with our Scottie family, make new friends, and hear updates about all the great things happening in our community and ways you can help make a difference!

When: Wednesday, February 19, 6:00 PM

Where: BBES Cafeteria

Virtual Streaming Option: https://meet.google.com/hqj-wyrt-bve

Read-a-thon Fundraiser - REGISTER NOW for PRIZES!

Biggest Highlights:

Nearly ALL funds raised come back directly to our Scottie community
Registration is FREE and prizes can be earned by minutes read OR funds raised
Funds raised support tech updates, staff support/appreciation, field trip buses, school assemblies, and so much more!

Register HERE today! It takes just two minutes to register, then share your Scottie's donation link with family and friends! It couldn't be easier.

View our Read-a-thon Fundraiser flyer for more details

Cardinal Gymnastics Parents Night Out Fundraiser - EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT!!

Have a great night out kid-free while they enjoy an awesome FOUR HOUR evening at Cardinal Gymnastics!!! They'll have fun with gymnastics, games, crafts, and pizza! Register by February 19th here for an EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT (the flyer says 2/14 but has been extended to 2/19).

When: Saturday, March 8th from 5PM-9PM

Where: Cardinal Gymnastics, 5581 Guinea Rd, Fairfax

Cost: $50/student Early Bird Discount until 2/19 (then $60/student)

Bonnie Brae ES: Family Newsletter

GovDelivery1 week ago

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Hello, Scottie families!

Thank you to the PTO for supporting our Valentine's Day lunch today! We are grateful that so many of our Scottie families were able to attend. What a great way to celebrate the Positivity Project character strength of love!

We have our next PTO meeting on Wednesday, February 19 at 6 PM in the cafeteria. We hope you can join us! Finally, a reminder that Monday, February 17 is Presidents' Day and schools are closed. Enjoy the long weekend with your family and friends, Scotties!

Morgan Birge, Principal

Natalie Vershaw, Assistant Principal

Melissa Johnson, Assistant Principal

Family. Relationships. Success.

February 17 - Washington's Birthday/Presidents' Day Holiday (no school for students and staff)
February 19 - PTO Meeting, 6-7:30 PM (Cafeteria)

Positivity Project

Upcoming Weekly Focus: Other People Matter (OPM): Cheering Others' Successes

Character Strengths: When other people succeed, I am happy for them and cheer them on.

Quote of the Week: “We rise by lifting others.”

-ROBERT INGERSOLL

Positivity Project for Families

Families can find resources to help continue the discussion of character strengths at home by visiting the Positivity Project for Families webpage.

A few amazing highlights that happened this week...

Kindergarten students learned about the science of shadows by creating their own!

Thank you for making our annual Valentine's Day Lunch such a special event!

Presidents Day (Holiday)

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

Black History Month Kick-Off Celebration (Note: Date Change)

FCPS’ Chief Equity Office invites the community to an Inaugural Black History Month Kickoff Celebration on Wednesday, February 19, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at Carter G. Woodson High School.

The event begins with a light reception followed by a formal program, From the Threads of Our Past to the Fabric of Our Future. The program will honor the enduring contributions of Black history and culture while envisioning a future rooted in equity and excellence. It will include inspiring performances, personal stories, reflections, and opportunities to connect and celebrate. The event is open to the entire community.

For more information, contact Nina Thomas, senior manager for Professional Learning and Cultural Responsiveness.

Kindergarten students had a blast celebrating the 100th day of school!

Girls on the Run Registration

Girls on the Run inspires individuals of all abilities to discover, build, and grow their self-confidence. Coaches blend physical activity with life skill development, including managing emotions, fostering friendships, and expressing empathy. At the end of the season, the team completes a Community Impact Project and run a 5K together.

Register for Girls on the Run by February 27th.

Practices take place, Monday and Wednesday 3:30-4:30 PM.

It’s Kindergarten Registration Time!

Attending kindergarten provides children with an opportunity to learn and practice the essential social, emotional, problem-solving, and self-regulation skills they will use throughout their lives. Fairfax County public schools typically conduct kindergarten registration events, including orientation, between January and April. Eligible children can also be registered throughout the summer, but registering your child early helps us prepare and ensure we have the teachers and resources needed on the first day of school.

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

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

Learn More About How Your Child Feels at School

The Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener will be administered to students in grades 3-12 in March. Students use the SEL Screener twice a year to share their perspectives on how well their school and community help them develop the skills they need to succeed. The screener works by asking questions or presenting statements that students can think about and respond to. This gives students a way to share how well their school community makes them feel valued, included, and supported.

After each screening, results are available in the Documents tab of SIS ParentVUE and mailed to families who do not have a ParentVUE account. For more information, including SEL Screener questions and opt-out information, please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage.

Showing our Scottie love in the newest spirit wear!

Student Fasting Meal Kits for February 28 - March 28

Thanks to a new program from the Virginia Department of Education, students who are fasting during the school day between February 28 and March 28 can now take school meal kits home at the end of the day.

Families will need to fill out a weekly Fasting Meals Request Form for their child or children to receive school meal kits. A separate form must be filled out for each week and each student.

To receive meal kits for Friday, February 28, and the week of March 3, please submit the first request form by Monday, February 24. Visit the FNS webpage for more information, including weekly request forms and deadlines.

Protect Yourself and Your Community From the Flu

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

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

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

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

Kindergarten students successfully created a structure using 100 cups!

Order Our 2024-2025 Bonnie Brae Yearbook!

To order a Bonnie Brae ES Yearbook via credit card online, visit https://www.buytheyearbook.com/en/bty/findmyschool and use School ID Number 725788.

We will have a limited number of yearbooks for sale on-site in June at a cost of $20 per soft cover yearbook (no hard cover yearbooks will be sold on-site).

Yearbooks are expected to arrive late-May/early June.

Visit the Bonnie Brae Yearbook webpage for details.

Best Buddies Friendship Walk

Our Scottie community can join us either by donating, or by joining our team and walking with us. Visit our Super Scotties Fundraiser page to donate or join our team!

K-12 Mathematics Basal Public Review

Fairfax County Public Schools will adopt new Mathematics Instructional Resources for the 2025-2026 (secondary) and 2026-2027 (elementary) school years. A review committee composed of community members, administrators, and teachers will be meeting to review materials submitted by vendors. The public is also invited to review materials and provide comments.

Mathematics basal instructional resources may be accessed in-person and online from February 14, 2025 – March 21, 2025, for public feedback. Those reviewing instructional materials in-person or on-line will give feedback via a digital input form

Hard copies of instructional materials will be available for review at Willow Oaks Welcome Center Monday - Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Note: If review hours are needed outside of these hours please email [email protected]

FCPS Administrative Building 8270 Willow Oaks Corporate Dr., Suite 100 Falls Church, VA 22031

Electronic materials for public review will be available on the FCPS Mathematics web site.

All community feedback will be shared with the review committee and with School Board members before a vote at the School Board regular meeting in 2025.

Valentine's Day Lunch smiles!

FCPS’ Construction Projects Offer Community-Wide Benefits

The Fairfax County School Board approved the annual update to FCPS’ FY 2026-30 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) at their regular board meeting last week. A CIP is a working budget document that shows the timing and costs of improvement to school buildings, such as renovations, additions, and new schools. Learn more about planned improvements. Fairfax County Public Schools’ updated plans for new school construction, capacity enhancements, and renovations are outlined in the CIP. Projects include constructing two new elementary schools; renovations at 18 elementary schools, two middle schools, and two high schools; and relocation of modular buildings.

Breaking Down the Budget: Investing in Our Classrooms

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

Cardinal Gymnastics Parents Night Out Fundraiser - EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT!!

When: Saturday, March 8th from 5PM-9PM

Where: Cardinal Gymnastics, 5581 Guinea Rd, Fairfax

Cost: $50/student Early Bird Discount until 2/19 (then $60/student)

Papa John's Fundraiser - EVERY MONDAY!!

Support the PTO with this great deal!

Order online and get 40% OFF all regular menu prices and Papa John's will donate 10% of sales to the PTO! View the Papa John's Fundraiser flyer for more details.

When: EVERY MONDAY (expires June 9, 2025)

Where: Papa John's Burke

MUST USE PROMO CODE: BBES4010

February 24 - Three-Hour Early Release Monday, 12:15 PM
February 28 - SCA Spirit Day: Dress to Impress
March 4 - 3rd Quarter Interims Sent Home
March 17 - Three-Hour Early Release Monday, 12:15 PM
March 19 - PTO Meeting, 6-7:30 PM (Cafeteria)
March 27 - Staff Basketball Game, 6-8 PM (Robinson Secondary)
March 28 - Last Day of Third Quarter
March 28 - SCA Spirit Day: Multiples Day
March 31 - Holiday, Eid-al-Fitr (no school for students and staff)
April 1 - Teacher Workday (no school for students)
April 1 - Kindergarten Orientation, 9-10:30 AM
April 2 - 4th Quarter Begins

Stay up to date on all things BBES! Subscribe to our School Calendar.

FCPS Standard School Year Calendar

Printable FCPS 2024-25 School Calendar (PDF)

Bonnie Brae ES: Valentine's Day Lunch is Friday!

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Valentine's Day Lunch Friday!

We are excited to invite Bonnie Brae families in for lunch on Valentine’s Day, February 14! Parents and guardians are invited to attend lunch during their child’s lunch period, as we celebrate the Positivity Project character strength of Love the week of February 10-14. Students will be able to purchase lunch from the cafeteria on February 14, and while we do not have enough food for parents to purchase from Bonnie Brae, we encourage any family members who attend to bring a lunch to eat with their child. (On this day, family members can also bring a lunch for their child if they wish.)

If you would like to join your child/children for lunch on Valentine’s Day, please complete this form so we can plan for seating. We look forward to seeing you!

Lunch Schedule:

Kindergarten --- 10:55-11:25
Grade 2 --- 11:05-11:35
Grade 3 --- 11:40-12:10
Grade 1 --- 11:50-12:20
EAC --- 12:10-12:40
Grade 4 --- 12:15-12:45
Grade 6 --- 12:25-12:55
Grade 5 --- 12:55-1:25

Bonnie Brae ES: Valentine's Day Lunch on Friday!

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Valentine's Day Lunch Friday!

If you would like to join your child/children for lunch on Valentine’s Day, please complete this form so we can plan for seating. We look forward to seeing you!

Lunch Schedule:

Kindergarten --- 10:55-11:25
Grade 2 --- 11:05-11:35
Grade 3 --- 11:40-12:10
Grade 1 --- 11:50-12:20
EAC --- 12:10-12:40
Grade 4 --- 12:15-12:45
Grade 6 --- 12:25-12:55
Grade 5 --- 12:55-1:25

Bonnie Brae ES: (Correction) 3-Hour Early Release Today

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3-Hour Early Release Today Due to Weather

All Fairfax County Public Schools and offices will close three hours early today, Tuesday, February 11. Bonnie Brae Elementary students will be dismissed at 12:15 PM today.

All after school clubs are cancelled today.

Bonnie Brae ES: 3-Hour Early Release Today

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3-Hour Early Release Today Due to Weather

All Fairfax County Public Schools and offices will close three hours early today, Tuesday, January 11. Bonnie Brae Elementary students will be dismissed at 12:15 PM today.

Bonnie Brae ES: Family Newsletter

GovDelivery2 weeks ago

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Hello, Scottie families!

We have had a great week at Bonnie Brae, and we are excited to learn about and celebrate The Positivity Project character strength of love next week! We are looking forward to our Valentine's Day lunch on Friday, February 14 as well. See below for the time schedule and more details.

A reminder that our next 3-hour early release day is Monday, February 24. Families should have received an individualized email with their student's prior early release plan. Any changes or questions related to your child's early release plan for February 24 should be sent to [email protected]. Changes to your child's early release plan must be requested prior to Wednesday, February 19, to ensure updates are communicated to our staff.

With the potential for more winter precipitation in the forecast for next week, be sure to keep an eye on the FCPS website for updates on possible delayed openings or closings.

We hope you have a great weekend!

Morgan Birge, Principal

Natalie Vershaw, Assistant Principal

Melissa Johnson, Assistant Principal

Family. Relationships. Success.

February 10 - Dave & Busters PTO Family Fun Night, 5-8 PM (Fair Oaks)
February 12 - 100th Day of School
February 14 - Valentine's Day Luncheon

Positivity Project

Upcoming Weekly Focus: Love

Character Strengths: You value close relationships with others and being close to people.

Quote of the Week: “Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps
fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope.”

-MAYA ANGELOU

Positivity Project for Families

Families can find resources to help continue the discussion of character strengths at home by visiting the Positivity Project for Families webpage.

A few amazing highlights that happened this week...

First grade students enjoying some warm weather on the playground.

Due to a Healthy Kids grant, our school was able to purchase four benches that were put together by some members of our EcoClub.

Valentine's Day Lunch

We are excited to invite Bonnie Brae families in for lunch on Valentine’s Day, February 14! Parents and guardians are invited to attend lunch during their child’s lunch period, as we celebrate the Positivity Project character strength of Love the week of February 10-14. Students will be able to purchase lunch from the cafeteria on February 14, and while we do not have enough for parents to purchase from Bonnie Brae, we encourage any family members who attend to bring a lunch to eat with their child. (On this day, family members can also bring a lunch for their child if they wish.)

If you would like to join your child/children for lunch on Valentine’s Day, please complete this form so we can plan for seating. We look forward to seeing you!

Lunch Schedule:

Kindergarten --- 10:55-11:25
Grade 2 --- 11:05-11:35
Grade 3 --- 11:40-12:10
Grade 1 --- 11:50-12:20
EAC --- 12:10-12:40
Grade 4 --- 12:15-12:45
Grade 6 --- 12:25-12:55
Grade 5 --- 12:55-1:25

If you would like to volunteer to support before, during, or after lunch on February 14, please email the PTO at [email protected] to let them know you can help!

Presidents Day (Holiday)

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

Black History Month Kick-Off Celebration (Note: Date Change)

FCPS’ Chief Equity Office invites the community to an Inaugural Black History Month Kickoff Celebration on Wednesday, February 19, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at Carter G. Woodson High School.

For more information, contact Nina Thomas, senior manager for Professional Learning and Cultural Responsiveness.

Make Sure Your Children Are Up-to-Date on Immunizations

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

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

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

Order Our 2024-2025 Bonnie Brae Yearbook!

To order a Bonnie Brae ES Yearbook via credit card online, visit https://www.buytheyearbook.com/en/bty/findmyschool and use School ID Number 725788.

We will have a limited number of yearbooks for sale on-site in June at a cost of $20 per soft cover yearbook (no hard cover yearbooks will be sold on-site).

Yearbooks are expected to arrive late-May/early June.

Visit the Bonnie Brae Yearbook webpage for details

Best Buddies Friendship Walk

Our Scottie community can join us either by donating, or by joining our team and walking with us. Visit our Super Scotties Fundraiser page to donate or join our team!

Rambunctious Theater Company Presents Seussical the Musical!

Come enjoy a musical that includes all your favorite Dr. Seuss characters and is performed by Robinson Secondary students! Buy Tickets and learn more about this production at the Seussical the Musical webpage. Check out this promo featuring some former Bonnie Brae Scotties!

FCPS Proposed Budget Progress

The Fairfax County School Board discussed the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Proposed Budget at their work session on February 4. They discussed details regarding student enrollment and investments in students requiring additional support, market comparison data for surrounding school divisions, and an update on progress toward achieving the Baldrige Award for Performance Excellence. Baldrige is a framework used to assess and improve organizational performance across various sectors, including education.

The School Board also held a public hearing on the FY 2026 Proposed Budget on Tuesday, February 4, where they invited the community to share their feedback on the budget.

On Tuesday, February 18, the Fairfax County executive will present the county’s Advertised Budget, and the Fairfax County School Board will hold a work session on the FCPS FY 2026 Proposed Budget. View FCPS’ Budget Development Calendar.

Breaking Down the Budget

More than 85% of the budget is dedicated to instruction and reflects the needs of our community’s young people in response to the changing world around us. Budget priorities include providing competitive compensation for all employees, including a 7% salary increase for all staff. The majority of the budget increase is dedicated to that proposed 7% pay increase.

Our families want their children in high-quality schools with the best teachers who provide rigorous academic experiences. We must provide competitive compensation to attract and retain our outstanding educators, administrators, and other school-based and operational staff dedicated to the success of our students.

The proposed 7% salary increase would likely move FCPS to the highest starting salary for teachers with a master's degree among our neighboring counties and greatly improve our recruitment efforts amidst an ongoing teacher shortage. Visit the Budget webpage for more information.

Fun times on the swings!

Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration

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

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

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

Get more details on the DLI Program webpage.

Learn About Science, Technology, and Arts Magnet Schools

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

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

Students Invited to Share Their Voices at the 2025 Family Summit

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

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

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

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

Enjoying time outside on the slide while it was sunny and warm.

BBES Parent Course on Schoology: New Update New information has been uploaded to our Parent Schoology Course.

New this week: Theatre 4 Kids Foundation & Robinson Secondary Seussical the Musical Tickets Opportunity

In order to access Schoology, you must be signed up for a Parent Vue account and can use those credentials to sign in. Don't have a Parent Vue account? Register today!

Dave and Buster's Family Fun Night-Next Week!

Mark your calendars for an exciting night full of family fun! We're partnering with Dave and Buster's for a fundraiser where the PTO will receive 20% of all food and game-play sales! Families must present our BBES Dave & Busters Flyer at the time of purchase.

When: Monday, February 10, 5-8 PM

Where: Dave and Buster's Fair Oaks (11958 U Fair Oaks Shopping Center)

Valentine's Day Lunch SIGN UP TO HELP!

Bonnie Brae welcomes you to join your Scottie for lunch in the BBES cafeteria/gym on Valentine's Day, February 14th. We'll need your help checking people in and navigating parents to the lunch spot at the designated times so we can take this load off our wonderful front office team and ensure a quick process for families! This also ensures the kiddos can navigate to their lunch location or leave for class in an orderly manner and not have to weave through too many adults.

Please sign up here to help!!

Cardinal Gymnastics Parents Night Out Fundraiser - EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT!!

When: Saturday, March 8th from 5PM-9PM

Where: Cardinal Gymnastics, 5581 Guinea Rd, Fairfax

Cost: $50/student Early Bird Discount until 2/19 (then $60/student)

Read-a-thon COMING SOON!

Mark your calendar for our biggest and most important fundraiser of the year! Our Boosterthon last year was so successful, so we're taking the fundraiser in-house this year, where ALL FUNDS RAISED will come DIRECTLY to our community, thanks to a dedicated team of volunteers! Mark your calendars for February 24th, and keep an eye out for more information coming soon!

Spring Session After School Clubs Update

Due to several factors (scheduling, renovations, and volunteer availability), the PTO will not be running a spring session of the After School Club program. We intend to bring these back in the 2025-26 school year. The current winter session will run as scheduled.

If your family has benefitted from these programs, we encourage you to volunteer on the ASP committee and consider submitting your name for the PTO Board position of VP of Programs, whose focus is on running these wonderful clubs.

Open Board Positions

Be a part of making our Scottie community so amazing by joining the PTO! Make new friends, serve your community, and help make magical memories for your kiddos!

Nominations will be made at the March PTO Meeting (3/19) and Voting will occur at the May PTO Meeting (5/21). The following board positions are open for 2025-2026:

Treasurer Backfill: Learn from the BEST! Our current Treasurer will roll off next year as she says farewell to Bonnie Brae, so train under her and offer support for next year!

Co-VP Programs: Do you love our awesome after school clubs? We'll need a new lead to keep them running next year!

Co-VP Fundraising: Help raise funds for all the amazing things we offer throughout the year!

President-Elect: Train under the 25-26 President so you'll be ready to rock and roll as President the following year!

Papa John's Fundraiser - EVERY MONDAY!!

Support the PTO with this great deal!

Order online and get 40% OFF all regular menu prices and Papa John's will donate 10% of sales to the PTO! View the Papa John's Fundraiser flyer for more details.

When: EVERY MONDAY (expires June 9, 2025)

Where: Papa John's Burke

MUST USE PROMO CODE: BBES4010

PTO Subscription Calendar

February 17 - Washington's Birthday/Presidents' Day Holiday (no school for students and staff)
February 19 - PTO Meeting, 6-7:30 PM (Cafeteria)
February 24 - Three-Hour Early Release Monday, 12:15 PM
February 28 - SCA Spirit Day: Dress to Impress
March 4 - 3rd Quarter Interims Sent Home
March 17 - Three-Hour Early Release Monday, 12:15 PM
March 19 - PTO Meeting, 6-7:30 PM (Cafeteria)
March 27 - Staff Basketball Game, 6-8 PM (Robinson Secondary)
March 28 - Last Day of Third Quarter
March 28 - SCA Spirit Day: Multiples Day

Stay up to date on all things BBES! Subscribe to our School Calendar.

FCPS Standard School Year Calendar

Printable FCPS 2024-25 School Calendar (PDF)

Bonnie Brae ES: Club/Group & Candids Photo Day on Friday

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Club/Group and Candids Photo Day - Friday, February 7

Photographers from our yearbook company, Victor O'Neill, will be at Bonnie Brae on Tomorrow, February 7. One photographer will take candid photos while visiting learning spaces. Another photographer will take club and group pictures. If your child participates in any of the listed clubs and groups, they will have their picture taken on February 7.

The club and group picture schedule is below.

Bonnie Brae ES: Family Newsletter

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Hello, Scottie families!

We are officially over halfway through the school year, and we are looking forward to a great second semester! Thank you to our families and caregivers for continuing to be mindful of staff directions at kiss and ride, as we utilize our new (temporary) traffic flow pattern.

We had a great SCA Spirit Day today - Sports Day! Our monthly SCA spirit days typically take place the last Friday of the month, and it is always fun to see our staff and students participate in the spirit day, or by wearing Bonnie Brae colors of blue and white.

Have a great weekend!

Morgan Birge, Principal

Natalie Vershaw, Assistant Principal

Melissa Johnson, Assistant Principal

Family. Relationships. Success.

February 7 - Clubs and Candids Photos

Positivity Project

Upcoming Weekly Focus: Classrooms will spend time reviewing the character strengths listed below.

Character Strengths: Integrity, OPM - Words and Actions, Bravery, Creativity, and Teamwork

Positivity Project for Families

Families can find resources to help continue the discussion of character strengths at home by visiting the Positivity Project for Families webpage.

A few amazing highlights that happened this week...

Beautiful music filled the air during the Winter Strings Concert.

Fun times at Bingo Night!

Club/Group and Candid Photo Day - February 7

Photographers from our yearbook company, Victor O'Neill, will be at Bonnie Brae on Friday, February 7. One photographer will take candid photos while visiting learning spaces. Another photographer will take club and group pictures. If your child participates in any of the listed clubs and groups, they will have their picture taken on February 7.

The club and group picture schedule is below.

Bonnie Brae Food Sharing Program Begins February 3

Starting February 3, Bonnie Brae is launching a food sharing program during lunch time to help reduce waste and food insecurity. There will be a Share Table in our cafeteria where students may place unwanted and unopened food or drink from cafeteria meals (no food from home should be placed on the Share Table). Any student may take food or drink from the Share Table at no cost.

Encourage your children to only take what they need and to take part in food sharing. Together we can do great things!

SR&R and Cell Phone Policy Survey

All FCPS families and middle and high school students have received an invitation to participate in a survey about FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R), cell phone policy, and cell phone storage options. The survey will be available through Monday, February 3. Please take a few moments to share your feedback and help FCPS make informed, inclusive decisions for all of our schools!

Reading Opens the World Event

Visit the Reading Opens the World Book Drive and Family Literacy Fair on Saturday, February 8, 10 AM-2 PM at the Lorton Community Center & Library (9520 Richmond Highway).

Parents and guardians are welcome to choose up to 10 free books per child for home libraries, with a 30 book maximum limit per family. Books are available on a first-come, first served basis.

There will also be fun activities including a DJ, food trucks, and a free Valentine's Day card making area!

View more details:

Valentine's Day Lunch

We are excited to invite Bonnie Brae families in for lunch on Valentine’s Day, February 14! Parents and guardians are invited to attend lunch during their child’s lunch period, as we celebrate the Positivity Project character strength of Love the week of February 10-14. Students will be able to purchase lunch from the cafeteria on February 14, and while we do not have enough for parents to purchase from Bonnie Brae, we encourage any family members who attend to bring a lunch to eat with their child. (On this day, family members can also bring a lunch for their child if they wish.)

If you would like to join your child/children for lunch on Valentine’s Day, please complete this form so we can plan for seating. We look forward to seeing you!

Lunch Schedule:

Kindergarten --- 10:55-11:25
Grade 2 --- 11:05-11:35
Grade 3 --- 11:40-12:10
Grade 1 --- 11:50-12:20
EAC --- 12:10-12:40
Grade 4 --- 12:15-12:45
Grade 6 --- 12:25-12:55
Grade 5 --- 12:55-1:25

If you would like to volunteer to support before, during, or after lunch on February 14, please email the PTO at [email protected] to let them know you can help!

Bingo Night

Kindergarten Registration: It’s as Easy as 1-2-3…

There’s an easy five-step process for parents wanting to register their child for kindergarten:

Determine eligibility.
Identify your local school.
Gather documents.
Fill out forms.
Schedule an appointment.

After the appointment at the school (the student and one guardian must be present), the student will be ready for kindergarten orientation. Read more about the registration process. For additional information, please contact Jenny Rios Godoy, our school registrar.

Try Online Registration

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

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

Order Our 2024-2025 Bonnie Brae Yearbook!

To order a Bonnie Brae ES Yearbook via credit card online, visit https://www.buytheyearbook.com/en/bty/findmyschool and use School ID Number 725788.

We will have a limited number of yearbooks for sale on-site in June at a cost of $20 per soft cover yearbook (no hard cover yearbooks will be sold on-site).

Yearbooks are expected to arrive late-May/early June.

Visit the Bonnie Brae Yearbook webpage for details

Robinson Rams Spirit Wear Sale!

Robinson Rams Spirit Wear SALE ALERT! For a limited time, take up to 50% off select spirit wear. This is your chance to gear up for less, from hoodies and quarter zips to tees and shorts. Check out the SALE today at www.robinsonramsboosters.com! While supplies last.

Advisory Committee for Students With Disabilities Seeks Nominations for First-Class Awards

First-Class Awards are presented each year to individuals who support, design, and/or implement inclusion activities that result in positive outcomes for students. The Advisory Committee for Students with Disabilities (ACSD) is seeking nominations for the 2025 First-Class Awards. This is a great opportunity for the community to recognize and celebrate the inclusion efforts of educators, administrators, and students who demonstrate the inclusion of students with disabilities in all facets of education.

Nominees should model excellence in their role relative to special education, have a positive impact that benefits disabled and non-disabled students alike, and be committed to creating an inclusive environment and mindset.

Nominate an administrator, staff member, student, or community partner who has made an exceptional contribution to inclusive practices in Fairfax County Public Schools. Nominations close Wednesday, February 19.

Proposed Budget Presented to School Board

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid presented the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Proposed Budget at the School Board meeting on Thursday, January 23. Watch a video of the presentation.

As Dr. Reid noted in her January 24 letter to families, “The budget is fiscally responsible and invests in excellence — not just for FCPS, but for all of us in Fairfax County who want a strong community with successful young people, dedicated educators and support staff, and a thriving economy.”

The proposed budget reflects the needs of and FCPS’ commitments to Fairfax County students, families, and community members. It focuses on competitive compensation, including a 7.0% salary increase for all staff to recruit and retain our outstanding educators, administrators, and other school-based and operational staff dedicated to the success of our students; investing in students who require additional support; and continuing multiyear initiatives such as inclusive preschool and safety and security updates.

Learn more on the Budget webpage.

Office of the Ombuds: At Your Service!

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

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

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

Papa John's Fundraiser - EVERY MONDAY!!

Support the PTO with this great deal!

Order online and get 40% OFF all regular menu prices and Papa John's will donate 10% of sales to the PTO! View the Papa John's Fundraiser flyer for more details.

When: EVERY MONDAY (expires June 9, 2025)

Where: Papa John's Burke

MUST USE PROMO CODE: BBES4010

Dave and Buster's Family Fun Night - COMING SOON!

When: Monday, February 10th from 5-8 PM

Where: Dave and Buster's Fair Oaks

February 10 - Dave & Busters PTO Family Fun Night, 5-8 PM (Fair Oaks)
February 12 - 100th Day of School
February 14 - Valentine's Day Luncheon
February 17 - Washington's Birthday/Presidents' Day Holiday (no school for students and staff)
February 19 - PTO Meeting, 6-7:30 PM (Cafeteria)
February 24 - Three-Hour Early Release Monday, 12:15 PM
March 4 - 3rd Quarter Interims Sent Home

Stay up to date on all things BBES! Subscribe to our School Calendar.

FCPS Standard School Year Calendar

Printable FCPS 2024-25 School Calendar (PDF)

Bonnie Brae ES: Friday is Sports Day (SCA Spirit Day)

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SCA Spirit Day: Sports Day Friday, January, 31

Sports Fans! Wear a jersey or shirt to cheer for your favorite team (any sport, any level) or Bonnie Brae blue and white on Friday, January 31.

Bonnie Brae ES: No School for Students on Wednesday (Teacher Workday)

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Teacher Workday on Wednesday, January 29

Wednesday, January 29 is a teacher work day and there will be no school for students. See the complete school year calendar.

Bonnie Brae ES: Family Newsletter

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Hello, Scottie families!

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we started our temporary kiss and ride traffic flow yesterday. Parents and caregivers, please be mindful of Bonnie Brae staff directing traffic and supporting students as they enter and exit vehicles. Thank you for staying alert and keeping our students and staff safe at kiss and ride!

It has been a very cold week, and we are looking forward to warming up inside tonight for PTO Bingo Night, starting at 6 PM! See the PTO section below for more information on this fun PTO community event and 6th grade fundraiser.

The last day of the 2nd quarter is Tuesday, January 28, and there is no school on Wednesday due to the teacher workday. Finally, next week on Friday, January 31 is our next SCA Spirit Day - Sports Day! Wear a jersey or shirt to cheer your favorite team (any sport, any level) or Bonnie Brae blue and white!

Have a great weekend with your family and friends!

Morgan Birge, Principal

Natalie Vershaw, Assistant Principal

Melissa Johnson, Assistant Principal

Family. Relationships. Success.

January 28 - Second Quarter Ends
January 28 - Winter Strings Concert (Grades 5 & 6 Strings Students), 6:30-7:30 PM (Oak View Elementary)
January 29 - Teacher Workday (no school for students)
January 30 - Third Quarter Begins
January 31 - SCA Spirit Day: Sports Day

Upcoming Weekly Focus: Social Intelligence

Character Strengths: You are aware of other people’s thoughts and feelings. You understand why they do things.

Quote of the Week: “The single most important lesson I learned in 25 years of talking every single day to people, was that there’s a common denominator in our human experience. The common denominator I found in every single interview is we want to be validated. We want to be understood.”

-OPRAH WINFREY

Positivity Project for Families

Families can find resources to help continue the discussion of character strengths at home by visiting the Positivity Project for Families webpage.

A few amazing highlights that happened this week...

Students busy learning and having fun in PE class this week.

Quarter End and Teacher Workday

Tuesday, January 28, is the last day of the quarter. Wednesday, January 29 is a teacher work day and there will be no school for students. See the complete school year calendar.

SCA Spirit Day: Sports Day Friday, January, 31

Sports Fans! Wear a jersey or shirt to cheer your favorite team (any sport, any level) or Bonnie Brae blue and white on Friday, January 31.

Valentine's Day Lunch

We are excited to invite Bonnie Brae families in for lunch on Valentine’s Day, February 14! Parents and guardians are invited to attend lunch during their child’s lunch period, as we celebrate the Positivity Project character strength of Love the week of February 10-14. Students will be able to purchase lunch from the cafeteria on February 14, and while we do not have enough for parents to purchase from Bonnie Brae, we encourage any family members who attend to bring a lunch to eat with their child. (On this day, family members can also bring a lunch for their child if they wish.)

If you would like to join your child/children for lunch on Valentine’s Day, please complete this form so we can plan for seating. We look forward to seeing you!

Lunch Schedule:

Kindergarten --- 10:55-11:25
Grade 2 --- 11:05-11:35
Grade 3 --- 11:40-12:10
Grade 1 --- 11:50-12:20
EAC --- 12:10-12:40
Grade 4 --- 12:15-12:45
Grade 6 --- 12:25-12:55
Grade 5 --- 12:55-1:25

If you would like to volunteer to support before, during, or after lunch on February 14, please email the PTO at [email protected] to let them know you can help!

Temporary Kiss and Ride Traffic Flow Changes

The flow of kiss and ride traffic around the parking lot loop is reversed due to construction needs. Please see our Bonnie Brae Kiss and Ride webpage to view a larger image.

HESS has shared with us that this should be in place for approximately eight (8) weeks, and we will then return to the previous kiss and ride traffic flow.

Order Our 2024-2025 Bonnie Brae Yearbook!

To order a Bonnie Brae ES Yearbook via credit card online, visit https://www.buytheyearbook.com/en/bty/findmyschool and use School ID Number 725788.

We will have a limited number of yearbooks for sale on-site in June at a cost of $20 per soft cover yearbook (no hard cover yearbooks will be sold on-site).

Yearbooks are expected to arrive late-May/early June.

Visit the Bonnie Brae Yearbook webpage for details.

FCPS’ Proposed Construction Projects Offer Community-Wide Benefits

Fairfax County Public Schools updated plans for new school construction, capacity enhancements, and renovations are outlined in the proposed FY 2026-30 Capital Improvement Program (CIP). Projects include constructing two new elementary schools; renovations at 18 elementary schools, two middle schools, and two high schools; and relocation of modular buildings.

The proposed CIP was presented to the School Board at the January 14 work session. A public hearing was also held January 14. The School Board will take action on the proposed CIP at its Thursday, February 6, meeting

Opioid Crisis -What Families Can Do to Fight Drug Misuse

FCPS is committed to raising awareness about the opioid epidemic with our educators, parents/caregivers, and students. Together, we can help ensure our students thrive.

What can families do?

Show you disapprove of underage drinking and other drug misuse. More than 80% of young people ages 10-18 say their parents are the leading influence on their decision whether to drink.
Show you care about your child’s health, wellness, and success.
Show you are a good source of information about alcohol and other drugs. Find helpful resources on the FCPS Opioid Awareness webpage.
Pay attention to your child and discourage risky behaviors.
Build your child’s skills and strategies for avoiding drinking and drug use. Talk with your child about what they would do if faced with a decision about alcohol and drugs, such as texting a code word to a family member or practicing how they will say, “No thanks.”

Get more information on opioid awareness.

Virtual Community Boundary Review Meetings

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

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

VA SOL Summary - Virginia’s Student Assessment Summary for Families

This month, families of students who took any Standards of Learning (SOL) test between school years 2015-16 and 2023-24 will receive a Student Assessment Summary Report. The report shows a student’s state percentile ranking for each test. This allows families to see how their child ranked compared to all Virginia students who took the same test that year.

Reports are available now in SIS ParentVUE Documents. They will be distributed by schools this month to students whose families do not have ParentVUE access. Learn how to access ParentVUE.

The report is intended to help families reflect on how their child performed across all tested subjects over the years. Our schools and staff are committed to working with families to support every student to succeed at their highest potential. Learn more about student assessments in FCPS.

SR&R and Cell Phone Policy Survey

6th Grade Promotion Fundraiser - BINGO NIGHT IS TONIGHT!

Come support the 6th Grade Promotion fundraiser for a fun filled night of BINGO!

When: 1/24 from 6-8PM

Where: BBES Cafeteria

Bingo Cards: $2 each or 10 for $10

Hotdog combo for $5 (hotdog/drink/chips)

All students must be accompanied by an adult, this is not a drop-off event.

Scottie Love Spiritwear Store CLOSES SOON!!!

Show your Scottie LOVE and get your limited release Valentine's themed spiritwear here today! The store is only open until January 26th, so place your order now! Orders will be sent home with your student before Valentine's Day.

Spring Session After School Clubs Update

Open Board Positions

Be a part of making our Scottie community so amazing by joining the PTO! Make new friends, serve your community, and help make magical memories for your kiddos!

Nominations will be made at the March PTO Meeting (3/19) and Voting will occur at the May PTO Meeting (5/21). The following board positions are open for 2025-2026:

Treasurer Backfill: Learn from the BEST! Our current Treasurer will roll off next year as she says farewell to Bonnie Brae, so train under her and offer support for next year!

Co-VP Programs: Do you love our awesome after school clubs? We'll need a new lead to keep them running next year!

Co-VP Fundraising: Help raise funds for all the amazing things we offer throughout the year!

President-Elect: Train under the 25-26 President so you'll be ready to rock and roll as President the following year!

Staff Basketball Game - VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

If you had fun last year at the BBES Staff Basketball Game and want to help make it even bigger and better, please join the planning committee! Your fun ideas and help will grow this event and make it super special!

Send an email to [email protected] to sign up today. You'll be contacted by the Events Lead shortly.

Papa John's Fundraiser - EVERY MONDAY!!

Support the PTO with this great deal!

Order online and get 40% OFF all regular menu prices and Papa John's will donate 10% of sales to the PTO! View the Papa John's Fundraiser flyer for more details.

When: EVERY MONDAY (expires June 9, 2025)

Where: Papa John's Burke

MUST USE PROMO CODE: BBES4010

Dave and Buster's Family Fun Night - COMING SOON!

When: Monday, February 10th from 5-8 PM

Where: Dave and Buster's Fair Oaks

PTO Subscription Calendar

February 7 - Clubs and Candids Photos
February 10 - Dave & Busters PTO Family Fun Night, 5-8 PM (Fair Oaks)
February 12 - 100th Day of School
February 14 - Valentine's Day Luncheon
February 17 - Washington's Birthday/Presidents' Day Holiday (no school for students and staff)
February 19 - PTO Meeting, 6-7:30 PM (Cafeteria)
February 24 - Three-Hour Early Release Monday, 12:15 PM
March 4 - 3rd Quarter Interims Sent Home

Stay up to date on all things BBES! Subscribe to our School Calendar.

FCPS Standard School Year Calendar

Printable FCPS 2024-25 School Calendar (PDF)

Bonnie Brae ES PTO: Bingo Night & Spirit Wear

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6th Grade Promotion Fundraiser - BINGO NIGHT IS FRIDAY!

Come support the 6th Grade Promotion fundraiser for a fun filled night of BINGO!

When: 1/24 from 6-8PM

Where: BBES Cafeteria

Bingo Cards: $2 each or 10 for $10

Hotdog combo for $5 (hotdog/drink/chips)

All students must be accompanied by an adult, this is not a drop-off event.

Scottie Love Spiritwear Store CLOSES SOON!!!

Bonnie Brae ES: Kiss and Ride Changes Starts This Morning

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Enter Kiss and Ride At 8:05 AM

Our temporary kiss and ride traffic flow begins today, January 23, 2025. To ensure staff have access to parking each morning, we ask that parents and caregivers wait to enter the parking lot for kiss and ride until 8:05 AM. Please see the information below about our temporary kiss and ride traffic flow.

Temporary Kiss and Ride Traffic Flow Changes - Begins This Morning

Starting today, Thursday, January 23, we will reverse the flow of kiss and ride traffic around the parking lot loop. When entering Kiss and Ride, please pay attention to staff members as they provide directions so everyone can navigate our Kiss and Ride changes safely.

Please see our Bonnie Brae Kiss and Ride webpage to view a larger image.

HESS has shared with us that this should be in place for approximately eight (8) weeks, and we will then return to the current kiss and ride traffic flow.

Bonnie Brae ES: Kiss and Ride Changes (starts January 23)

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Enter Kiss and Ride At 8:05 AM

Our temporary kiss and ride traffic flow begins tomorrow, January 23, 2025. To ensure staff have access to parking each morning, we ask that parents and caregivers wait to enter the parking lot for kiss and ride until 8:05 AM. Please see the information below about our temporary kiss and ride traffic flow.

Temporary Kiss and Ride Traffic Flow Changes - Begins Tomorrow (Jan. 23)

Due to construction needs, on Thursday, January 23, we will reverse the flow of kiss and ride traffic around the parking lot loop. Please see our Bonnie Brae Kiss and Ride webpage to view a larger image.

HESS has shared with us that this should be in place for approximately eight (8) weeks, and we will then return to the current kiss and ride traffic flow.

Bonnie Brae ES: Family Newsletter

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Hello, Scottie families!

It's been a geat, full week of school! It continues to be cold outside, and next week is looking to be even colder. Please be sure to send your children to school dressed for the weather -- coats, hats, gloves, etc.

Next Friday, January 24, we have our PTO Bingo Night, with proceeds supporting 6th grade end-of-year activities. We hope to see many of our Bonnie Brae families there!

Please be sure to check out the section below about temporary updates to our kiss & ride traffic flow. This update is required to support the work being done on the addition to the building, and it has been shared with us by FCPS Office of Design and Construction that we can anticipate returning to our typical traffic flow after approximately 6-8 weeks.

A reminder that there is no school on Monday, January 20, in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. We will see our Scotties back in school on Tuesday, January 22.

Have a great weekend!

Morgan Birge, Principal

Natalie Vershaw, Assistant Principal

Melissa Johnson, Assistant Principal

Family. Relationships. Success.

January 20 - Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday (no school for students and staff)
January 24 - PTO Bingo Night, 6-8 PM (Cafeteria)

Positivity Project

Upcoming Weekly Focus: Perseverance

Character Strengths: You complete what you start despite obstacles. You never give up.

Quote of the Week: “If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if
you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.”

-MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.

Positivity Project for Families

Families can find resources to help continue the discussion of character strengths at home by visiting the Positivity Project for Families webpage.

A few amazing highlights that happened this week...

Ms. Na's students enjoyed singing the "Goldfish" song.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day Holiday

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

Click the map to see a larger image of temporary changes to our Kiss and Ride traffic flow.

Temporary Kiss and Ride Traffic Flow Changes

In order to maintain project timelines, we have learned from Design and Construction that HESS needs to have access for a longer period of time each day to the parking lot area near the new addition (by the current kiss and ride load/unload area). Next week on Thursday, January 23 we will be reversing the flow of kiss and ride traffic around the parking lot loop. Please see our Bonnie Brae Kiss and Ride webpage to view a larger image.

HESS has shared with us that this should be in place for approximately eight (8) weeks, and we will then return to the current kiss and ride traffic flow.

Quarter End and Teacher Workday

Tuesday, January 28, is the last day of the quarter. Wednesday, January 29 is a teacher work day and there will be no school for students. See the complete school year calendar.

Take Your Snow and Shovel It

Neither VDOT nor the county clears snow and ice from public walkways (sidewalks and trails). While not legally obligated, residents and businesses are asked to help keep sidewalks safe, when possible, by clearing snow off the sidewalks in front of their property so that all pedestrians, especially school children, those with disabilities and the elderly, may walk securely.

As a community, we need to come together and take our snow and shovel it!

Order Our 2024-2025 Bonnie Brae Yearbook!

To order a Bonnie Brae ES Yearbook via credit card online, visit https://www.buytheyearbook.com/en/bty/findmyschool and use School ID Number 725788.

We will have a limited number of yearbooks for sale on-site in June at a cost of $20 per soft cover yearbook (no hard cover yearbooks will be sold on-site).

Yearbooks are expected to arrive late-May/early June.

Visit the Bonnie Brae Yearbook webpage for details.

Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

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

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

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

SR&R and Cell Phone Policy Survey Coming Soon

All FCPS families and middle and high school students will be receiving an email invitation on Tuesday, January 21, to participate in a survey about FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R), cell phone policy, and cell phone storage options. The survey will be available from January 21 to February 3. Please take a few moments to share your feedback and help FCPS make informed, inclusive decisions for all of our schools!

Scottie Love Spiritwear Store NOW OPEN!!!

Show your Scottie LOVE and get your limited release Valentine's themed spiritwear here today! The store is open until January 26th, so place your order now! Orders will be sent home with your student before Valentine's Day.

Open Board Positions

Be a part of making our Scottie community so amazing by joining the PTO! Make new friends, serve your community, and help make magical memories for your kiddos!

The following board roles are open for 2025-2026:

Treasurer Backfill: Learn from the BEST! Our current Treasurer will roll off next year as she says farewell to Bonnie Brae, so train under her and offer support for next year!

Co-VP Programs: Do you love our awesome after school clubs? We'll need a new lead to keep them running next year!

Co-VP Fundraising: Help raise funds for all the amazing things we offer throughout the year!

Staff Basketball Game - VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

Send an email to [email protected] to sign up today. You'll be contacted by the Events Lead shortly.

6th Grade Promotion Fundraiser - BINGO NIGHT!

Come support the 6th Grade Promotion fundraiser for a fun filled night of BINGO!

When: 1/24 from 6-8PM

Where: BBES Cafeteria

Bingo Cards: $2 each or 10 for $10

Hotdog combo for $5 (hotdog/drink/chips)

All students must be accompanied by an adult, this is not a drop-off event.

Papa John's Fundraiser - EVERY MONDAY!!

Support the PTO with this great deal!

Order online and get 40% OFF all regular menu prices and Papa John's will donate 10% of sales to the PTO!

When: EVERY MONDAY (exp. 6/9/25)

Where: Papa John's Burke

MUST USE PROMO CODE: BBES4010

Dave and Buster's Family Fun Night - COMING SOON!

When: Monday, February 10th from 5-8PM

Where: Dave and Buster's Fair Oaks

PTO Subscription Calendar

January 28 - Second Quarter Ends
January 28 - Winter Strings Concert (Grades 5 & 6 Strings Students), 6:30-7:30 PM (Oak View Elementary)
January 29 - Teacher Workday (no school for students)
January 30 - Third Quarter Begins
February 7 - Clubs and Candids Photos
February 10 - Dave & Busters PTO Family Fun Night, 5-8 PM (Fair Oaks)
February 14 - Valentine's Day Luncheon
February 17 - Washington's Birthday/Presidents' Day Holiday (no school for students and staff)
February 19 - PTO Meeting, 6-7:30 PM (Cafeteria)

Stay up to date on all things BBES! Subscribe to our School Calendar.

FCPS Standard School Year Calendar

Printable FCPS 2024-25 School Calendar (PDF)

Bonnie Brae ES: PTO Reminders

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Virtual PTO Meeting Tonight!

Join us for a virtual PTO meeting this month and get info on all the upcoming events, updates from our great Admin staff, and hear about all the great things going on with our Scottie Community!

When: TODAY! at 6PM

Where: Join the call here

Open Board Positions

Be a part of making our Scottie community so amazing by joining the PTO! Make new friends, serve your community, and help make magical memories for your kiddos!

The following board roles are open for 2025-2026:

Treasurer Backfill: Learn from the BEST! Our current Treasurer will roll off next year as she says farewell to Bonnie Brae, so train under her and offer support for next year!

Co-VP Programs: Do you love our awesome after school clubs? We'll need a new lead to keep them running next year!

Co-VP Fundraising: Help raise funds for all the amazing things we offer throughout the year!

President-Elect: Train under the 25-26 President so you'll be ready to rock and roll as President the following year!

Staff Basketball Game - VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

Send an email to [email protected] to sign up today. You'll be contacted by the Events Lead shortly.

PTO Subscription Calendar

Bonnie Brae ES: Family Newsletter

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Hello, Scottie families!

What a great day today! A short day, but a great one, full of fun, laughter, and learning together. It had been a long time coming, but the first day of school in 2025 was a great opportunity for us to reconnect with each other and share stories from winter break and snow day experiences.

Have a wonderful weekend. We will see our Scotties back on Monday for a full week of learning.

Morgan Birge, Principal

Natalie Vershaw, Assistant Principal

Melissa Johnson, Assistant Principal

Family. Relationships. Success.

January 13-17 - FCPS Family Math Week
January 15 - Robinson Curriculum Night for Families (for rising Robinson 7th grade families and current Robinson grades 7-11 parents), 5-8 PM (Robinson Secondary)

January 15 - PTO Meeting, 6-7:30 PM (virtual)

Positivity Project

Upcoming Weekly Focus: Prudence

Character Strengths: You plan for the future and achieve your goals by making careful everyday choices.

Quote of the Week: “Discipline is what gives you freedom in life.”

-JOCKO WILLINK, NAVY SEAL

Positivity Project for Families

Families can find resources to help continue the discussion of character strengths at home by visiting the Positivity Project for Families webpage.

A few amazing highlights that happened this week... Martin Luther King Jr. Day Holiday

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

Robinson Curriculum Night for Families of Rising 7th Grade Students - January 15

Families of rising 7th grade students are invited to attend the Robinson Curriculum Night on Wednesday, January 15, 5-8 PM. Families will learn about middle school courses, curriculum, and educational services.

Teachers from all subjects (core and elective) will be available to answer your questions and share more details about what to expect from their class. Specialists will also be available to discuss special education needs and how to support multilingual learners and immersion students.

Family Math Week

MIND Research is hosting family math week January 13 - January 17, 2025. During that time, students are encouraged to log onto the FCPS Family Math website to engage in math activities with their families at home that include stories with mathematical concepts connected to a variety of different math games from around the world. All activities are available in English and Spanish and links will be available in the New Year.

To learn more about Family Math Nights, check out this video. Help us reach our goal of logging on for three million minutes as an FCPS community.

Order Our 2024-2025 Bonnie Brae Yearbook!

To order a Bonnie Brae ES Yearbook via credit card online, visit https://www.buytheyearbook.com/en/bty/findmyschool and use School ID Number 725788.

We will have a limited number of yearbooks for sale on-site in June at a cost of $20 per soft cover yearbook (no hard cover yearbooks will be sold on-site).

Yearbooks are expected to arrive late-May/early June.

Visit the Bonnie Brae Yearbook webpage for details.

Gradebook Available Until End-of-Quarter

Based on community feedback from the first quarter closure, FCPS revisited the scheduled dates for closing the Gradebook and Report Card modules in the SIS ParentVUE and StudentVUE apps.

Moving forward, the app will close in alignment with the actual quarter-end dates. This change will allow students and families to view their assignments and grades until the last day of the quarter. Gradebook will be closed for the second quarter from Tuesday, January 28, 4 p.m. to Tuesday, February 4, 6 a.m.

Access Your Child’s Grades Through SIS ParentVue

Learn how your ParentVUE account allows you to easily access grade reports and other helpful information about your child.

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, (703) 321-3900.

Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

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

National Mentoring Month

Imagine a world where young people feel empowered, encouraged, and understood. Mentors can make that world a reality by helping young people find and follow their passions, excel in school, and thrive wherever they are.Learn more about Mentoring Month.

Research has shown that young people with at least one trusted mentor are less likely to skip school, less likely to use illegal drugs or drink alcohol, and more prepared to enter college or the workforce. Yet one in three children lack a mentor.

All it takes is one person to serve as a trusted adult to help change a young person’s path in life. Mentors provide attention, support, and enrichment, and help connect their mentees to resources that may help them on their journey in life.

The FCPS MentorWorks program matches mentors with students in schools near where they live or work. They meet for at least 30 minutes a week. Learn more about how to become a mentor for an FCPS student. Contact Martha Macdonald, mentoring specialist, for additional information at [email protected].

PTO Bingo Games!

Come support a 6th grade fundraiser and enjoy an unforgettable evening of excitement, and the thrill of the win at Bingo Games!

Get your dabbers ready and mark your calendars for an evening filled with fun times and friends. All are welcome!

***Students must be accompanied by an adult. This is not a drop off event.***

When: Friday, January 24, 6:30-8 PM

Where: Bonnie Brae Cafeteria

January 20 - Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday (no school for students and staff)
January 24 - PTO Bingo Night, 6-8 PM (Cafeteria)
January 28 - Second Quarter Ends
January 28 - Winter Strings Concert (Grades 5 & 6 Strings Students), 6:30-7:30 PM (Oak View Elementary)
January 29 - Teacher Workday (no school for students)
January 30 - Third Quarter Begins
February 7 - Clubs and Candids Photos
February 14 - Valentine's Day Luncheon
February 17 - Washington's Birthday/Presidents' Day Holiday (no school for students and staff)
February 19 - PTO Meeting, 6-7:30 PM (Cafeteria)

Stay up to date on all things BBES! Subscribe to our School Calendar.

FCPS Standard School Year Calendar

Printable FCPS 2024-25 School Calendar (PDF)

Bonnie Brae ES - Family Newsletter

GovDelivery1 month 1 week ago

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Snow Days!

We hope you everyone enjoyed their winter break and the recent snow days. We look forward to hearing from our Scotties about their snowy adventures as soon as we return to school!

Our custodial team has been hard at work clearing our sidewalks, parking lots, Scottland Yard blacktop and decking in preparation for our students and staff to safely return. We are appreciative of their efforts to ensure our school is ready for the start of 2025!

A reminder to please send students to school with coats, hats, gloves, etc. during these cold winter months.

Stay warm, everyone! We can't wait to see our students, parents, and staff soon!

Morgan Birge, Principal

Natalie Vershaw, Assistant Principal

Melissa Johnson, Assistant Principal

10 minutes 39 seconds ago

Bonnie Brae Elementary School News and announcements

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