FCPS

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Hello, Scottie families!  

Thank you to Ms. Lewis and Ms. Cascio for sharing information about their respective roles (librarian and school based technology specialist) with us during our parent coffee this morning!  A reminder of the community meeting that will take place next week at 6:30 PM on December 6, where information about the upcoming renovation will be shared.  See the flyer and QR code about the meeting and the renovation below!

Finally, thank you to those who have contributed to our December Days of Cheer for our staff.  We love our Scottie teachers and staff, and we appreciate all of the wonderful donations!

Have a great weekend!  

Morgan Birge, Principal

Natalie Vershaw, Assistant Principal

Melissa Johnson, Assistant Principal

Family.  Relationships.  Success. Next Week's Events

• December 2 - National Special Education Day
• December 4-8 - PTO Chick Fil A Spirit Days
• December 5-9 - Inclusive Schools Week
• December 6 - Bonnie Brae Construction Meeting (Cafeteria), 6:30 pm-7:30 pm

Positivity Project

Upcoming Weekly Focus:  Supporting others when they struggle

Character Strengths:  When other people are struggling, I do my
best to help them out.

Quote of the Week:  “We make a living by what we get; we make a life by
what we give.”

-WINSTON CHURCHILL

A few amazing highlights that happened this week... Save the Date!  Bonnie Brae Construction Community Meeting- December 6

Bonnie Brae Elementary School will soon be under construction as work begins on a renovation that will provide modern amenities and add approximately 40,000 square feet to the building. A community meeting will be held with FCPS Design and Construction on December 6, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. in the cafeteria to learn more about what to expect as we enter this new phase of the project.  See this flyer for more details.

Learn more about the Bonnie Brae Elementary School renovation.

AAP Updates and Reminders

Full time (level IV) referrals are due to Larissa Sheehan ([email protected]) no later than December 15. Additionally, you may submit a Parent/Guardian Questionnaire with your referral, both AAP forms can be found here. 

Please visit our Bonnie Brae AAP website to learn more about AAP services provided at Bonnie Brae.  A new, pre-recorded AAP Secondary Overview Recording has been added to the AAP Family Newsletters and Presentations section. This presentation provides families with information about gifted services, known in FCPS as “Advanced Academic Programs, or “AAP” in secondary schools.  Additional information will be shared at Robinson’s Curriculum Night being held on January 16th at Robinson Secondary School.

Need Warm Gear?

We have some new and gently used coats, hats and gloves at Bonnie Brae. If you are in need of these items, please contact April Bowman ([email protected]) to see if we may have something that will work for your child.

Clothing Donations Needed

Bonnie Brae is in need of clothing donations for students in grades K-3.  These donations are kept in our health room and are used to support students who might need an emergency change of clothes during the school day.  Please consider donating any new underwear, gently worn or new sweats (or leggings), and socks for our primary grade students to the main office!  Thank you for your support!   

Special Education Resources for Families

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

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

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

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

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

Social and Emotional Learning Screener Results Coming Soon

One of the ways FCPS supports the mental wellness of all students is through the Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener. In October, students in grades 3-12 took this screener in October, which gives information about their skills such as achieving goals, handling emotions, building relationships with adults and peers, and making good choices. 

The screener also helps students evaluate their school community’s efforts to make them feel valued, included, and supported. Screener data is used to create learning, experiences, and environments for students to succeed.

In early December, families will be able to view student SEL Screener results in SIS ParentVUE. For families who do not have an active ParentVUE account, results will be sent by mail.

For more information about the screener please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage. For help understanding your child’s results or ideas to support them at home, review the Family Guide or contact your child’s school. 

Preparing for Winter Weather

Winter weather will be here before you know it! Watch this video to see how weather-related closing decisions are made.

FCPS’ website is generally the first place where we will post an emergency weather closing. Other communication channels will be used as quickly as possible including email, text, social media, and news stations. Learn more about how schedule changes are communicated. 

Be sure to plan for the winter season. Make sure your contact information is up-to-date in SIS ParentVUE, bookmark the FCPS website, and plan for childcare if appropriate.

World Languages Offerings in Elementary Schools Survey

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

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

Community Review of Elementary English Language Arts Basal Instructional Resources 

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

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

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

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

After School Programs - Winter Registration

After School Programs will be running a winter session! Registration for community-based programs is now open and registration for teacher-led clubs opens Tuesday (12/5) at 7pm and closes on Thursday (12/7) at 7pm. Admittance is on a first come, first served basis, and late registrations cannot be accommodated, so be sure to grab your spot! ! Needs-based scholarships are available.  See our Winter After School Programs flyer for more details.

Chick-fil-A Spirit Week

Skip the cooking AND help support our Sotties at Chic-fil-A where 15% of sales will be donated to our community!

When: ALL WEEK December 4-8 - breakfast, lunch, or dinner!

Where: Burke Centre Chick-fil-A

Bring this flyer and mention Bonnie Brae Elementary Spirit Week, or use the mobile ordering code BBES23 to get credit!

PTO Volunteer Opportunities are OPEN!

Join in the fun, make an impact, and get involved! Volunteering is one of the best ways to get connected with other amazing Scottie families. Your help makes a huge difference in the lives of our students, so sign up today to help make the magic happen! Bonnie Brae PTO LOVES our amazing volunteers! 

https://forms.gle/GzbP6WzrWu5hsYtV6

View the 2023-2024 FCPS School Calendar

• December 13 - Band Concert (Gym), 6 pm
• December 13 - Chorus Concert (Cafeteria), 7 pm 
• December 15 - BBES Spirit Day
• December 18-January 1 - Winter Break (no school)
• January 9 - Winter PTO After School Program Begins

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

Bonnie Brae Elementary

@BonnieBraeES

Bonnie Brae ES Website

Bonnie Brae PTO

Bonnie Brae PTO Website

5420 Sideburn Rd, Fairfax, VA 22032 | Main Office: 703.321.3900
Attendance: 703.321.3939 | Web | Twitter

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Parent Coffee Tomorrow Morning

Our December Parent Coffee is tomorrow, Friday, December 1st in our cafeteria.  Parents are invited to attend from 8:35-9:20 AM, with updates from our Librarian and School Based Technology Specialist.  We hope you are able to make it!

December Days of Cheer - Help Needed

Thank you for all the food and gift card donations that will make our December Days of Cheer so special for our Bonnie Brae staff.  December Days of Cheer kicks off tomorrow and we are still in need of some treats and gift card donations if possible.

We appreciate anything our families are able to donate. 

• Sign-up for donations for treats and activities.
• Sign-up for gift card donations.

Thank you!

Bonnie Brae Elementary

@BonnieBraeES

Bonnie Brae ES Website

Bonnie Brae PTO

Bonnie Brae PTO Website

5420 Sideburn Rd, Fairfax, VA 22032 | Main Office: 703.321.3900
Attendance: 703.321.3939 | Web | Twitter

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Parent Coffee

Our December Parent Coffee is Friday, December 1st in our cafeteria.  Parents are invited to attend from 8:35-9:20 AM, with updates from our Librarian and School Based Technology Specialist (SBTS).  We hope you are able to make it!

Giving Tuesday- Support Our Scotties! 

On Giving Tuesday, the Bonnie Brae PTO would like to thank our BBES community for your generous support of our Scotties, teachers, and staff.  

We're kicking off our direct donation drive TODAY! During this season of giving, consider making a tax deductible donation where 100% of the proceeds will stay with our school community!

Your donations will support:

* Water coolers and benches for Scottland Yard

* Mobile whiteboards, storage carts, classroom stools, and air purifiers

* "Portrait of a Graduate" file folders 

* Ongoing Scottie support provided via the PTO

Contributions can be made via check (fill out and return this form) or by PayPal on our website: https://www.bonniebraepto.org/direct-donation-drive.

Thank you in advance for your generous support of our Scotties!

Bonnie Brae Elementary

@BonnieBraeES

Bonnie Brae ES Website

Bonnie Brae PTO

Bonnie Brae PTO Website

5420 Sideburn Rd, Fairfax, VA 22032 | Main Office: 703.321.3900
Attendance: 703.321.3939 | Web | Twitter

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Bonnie Brae December Cheer!

Welcome back!  We have two sign-up opportunities linked below, each with awesome ways to show your support for our staff:

In collaboration with the Bonnie Brae PTO, we have special activities and treats planned for each day in December to help make the month joyful for our fantastic Bonnie Brae staff, and we cannot do it without you! We appreciate anything that our families are able to donate. Please sign-up for donations for the treats and activities! 

Additionally, we are seeking donations of gift cards to use in a raffle for our wonderful teachers and staff leading up to winter break! Please see the sign-up for gift card donations.

Morgan Birge, Principal

Melissa Johnson, Assistant Principal

Natalie Vershaw, Assistant Principal

Family.  Relationships.  Success.

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

Bonnie Brae Elementary

@BonnieBraeES

Bonnie Brae ES Website

Bonnie Brae PTO

Bonnie Brae PTO Website

5420 Sideburn Rd, Fairfax, VA 22032 | Main Office: 703.321.3900
Attendance: 703.321.3939 | Web | Twitter

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

Hello Scottie Families!

As we wrap up a short week here at Bonnie Brae, we want to take the time to wish everyone a wonderful Thanksgiving!  A reminder there is no school tomorrow, and we hope you all have a chance to relax and refresh with family and friends in the coming days! 

Bonnie Brae December Cheer!

We have shared the importance of showing gratitude these past two weeks, and we have an opportunity for our community to support the PTO and school in showing our staff gratitude prior to winter break.  We have two sign-up opportunities linked below, each with awesome ways to show your support for our staff:

In collaboration with the Bonnie Brae PTO, we have special activities and treats planned for each day in December to help make the month joyful for our fantastic Bonnie Brae staff, and we cannot do it without you! We appreciate anything that our families are able to donate. Please sign-up for donations for the treats and activities! 

Additionally, we are seeking donations of gift cards to use in a raffle for our wonderful teachers and staff leading up to winter break! Please see the sign-up for gift card donations.

Morgan Birge, Principal

Melissa Johnson, Assistant Principal

Natalie Vershaw, Assistant Principal

Family.  Relationships.  Success. Holiday Break Reminder

No clubs today & Thanksgiving (Holiday)

As a reminder, schools and offices will be closed November 22-24. Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving! Classes will resume on Monday, November 27.

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

Bonnie Brae Elementary

@BonnieBraeES

Bonnie Brae ES Website

Bonnie Brae PTO

Bonnie Brae PTO Website

5420 Sideburn Rd, Fairfax, VA 22032 | Main Office: 703.321.3900
Attendance: 703.321.3939 | Web | Twitter

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

Hello, Scottie families!  

We have had a great week, including a fun Wild & Wacky SCA Spirit Day today!  A reminder that next week schools are closed Wednesday-Friday for Thanksgiving Break.  We hope you all have a wonderful weekend, and enjoy the time off with your family and friends.  

Morgan Birge, Principal

Natalie Vershaw, Assistant Principal

Melissa Johnson, Assistant Principal

Family.  Relationships.  Success. Next Week's Events

• November 18 - Game Night at iCode, 6 pm-9 pm
• November 22-24 - Thanksgiving Holiday (no school)

Positivity Project

Upcoming Weekly Focus:  Gratitude (week 2)

Character Strengths: You are aware of and thankful for good things
that happen.

Quote of the Week:  “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget
that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.”

-JOHN F. KENNEDY

A few amazing highlights that happened this week...

Kindergarten students using their creative and critical thinking skills while building..

First and second grade students using their creative and critical thinking skills while creating non-fiction text.

Thanksgiving

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

AAP Updates and Reminders

Full time (level IV) referrals are due to Larissa Sheehan ([email protected]) no later than December 15. Additionally, you may submit a Parent/Guardian Questionnaire with your referral, both AAP forms can be found here. 

Please visit our Bonnie Brae AAP website to learn more about AAP services provided at Bonnie Brae.  A new, pre-recorded AAP Secondary Overview Recording has been added to the AAP Family Newsletters and Presentations section. This presentation provides families with information about gifted services, known in FCPS as “Advanced Academic Programs, or “AAP” in secondary schools.  Additional information will be shared at Robinson’s Curriculum Night being held on January 16th at Robinson Secondary School.

Save the Date!  Bonnie Brae Construction Community Meeting- December 6

Bonnie Brae Elementary School will soon be under construction as work begins on a renovation that will provide modern amenities and add approximately 40,000 square feet to the building. A community meeting will be held with FCPS Design and Construction on December 6, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. in the cafeteria to learn more about what to expect as we enter this new phase of the project. 

Learn more about the Bonnie Brae Elementary School renovation.

Clothing Donations Needed

Bonnie Brae is in need of clothing donations for students in grades K-3.  These donations are kept in our health room and are used to support students who might need an emergency change of clothes during the school day.  Please consider donating any new underwear, gently worn or new sweats (or leggings), and socks for our primary grade students to the main office!  Thank you for your support!   

Accessing FCPS Digital Resources At Home

FCPS students can log onto many of our digital resources for learning from their FCPS device, or a personal device.  Please visit the FCPS Digital Resources to Support Student Learning at Home webpage for information about available digital resources and links to access them. 

Staying Healthy This Cold/Flu Season

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

Student Attendance and Engagement

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

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

Data shows that:

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

Attendance is critical for academic success!

Missing School Over the Holidays

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

Visit FCPS’ website for more attendance resources.

Special Education Resources for Families

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

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

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

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

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

Community Review of Elementary English Language Arts Basal Instructional Resources 

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

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

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

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

Cultural Committee Launch

The PTO is proud to announce the launch of a new Cultural Committee and we need volunteers to help make this a success! Want to be part of helping shape the mission and activities for this committee?  Fill out our Cultural Committee Google Form by Nov. 26th and we can get started building this great new addition to our community! 

After School Clubs - Winter Session - COMING SOON!

Bonnie Brae and the PTO are happy to bring back After School Clubs for a second winter session! Fliers will be sent out after Thanksgiving break with more information and the PTO website will be updated as more information becomes available.

Game Night at iCode - PTO FUNdraiser

Sign up today!!! Send the kiddos for a fun night of gaming while parents take the night off!

Who: K-6 grade students

Where: iCode in Burke - 6045 Burke Centre Pkwy, Suite 202

When: Saturday, Nov 18th from 6-9PM

Cost: $30 per participant, pizza and drinks included!

Includes 3 hours of supervised gaming by background-checked staff at iCode with other Scotties!

Registration: Click on link and scroll ALL THE WAY TO BOTTOM for the Bonnie Brae Game Night option.

http://www.icodeschool.com/burke/events/

SPACE IS LIMITED! Register early and secure your spot!

PTO Volunteer Opportunities are OPEN!

Join in the fun, make an impact, and get involved! Volunteering is one of the best ways to get connected with other amazing Scottie families. Your help makes a huge difference in the lives of our students, so sign up today to help make the magic happen! Bonnie Brae PTO LOVES our amazing volunteers! 

https://forms.gle/GzbP6WzrWu5hsYtV6

Calling all Event Planners!!!

Are you great at event planning, a leader, AND looking for a way to support our students?  The PTO is looking for an Events Lead and needs YOU!!! Make new friends, get involved, and make the magic happen for our kiddos! Events include: BINGO Night, Spring Carnival, VIP Dance, and many more! 

Contact [email protected] for more details.

Charleston Wrap Final Orders

Missed ordering during the Charleston Wrap fundraiser? You're in luck! There's still time to order through early December and have orders shipped directly to the customer's house! The prize window is closed, but the PTO will still receive 40% of proceeds for non-personalized items and 30% on personalized items. Visit https://www.registercw.com and use our school’s code: 16200.  

View the 2023-2024 FCPS School Calendar

• December 1 - Parent Coffee, 8:40 am-9:15 am
• December 4-8 - PTO Chick Fil A Spirit Days
• December 6 - Bonnie Brae Construction Meeting (Cafeteria), 6:30 pm-7:30 pm
• December 13 - Band Concert (Gym), 6 pm
• December 13 - Chorus Concert (Cafeteria), 7 pm 
• December 15 - BBES Spirit Day
• December 18-January 1 - Winter Break (no school)

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

Bonnie Brae Elementary

@BonnieBraeES

Bonnie Brae ES Website

Bonnie Brae PTO

Bonnie Brae PTO Website

5420 Sideburn Rd, Fairfax, VA 22032 | Main Office: 703.321.3900
Attendance: 703.321.3939 | Web | Twitter

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

SCA Spirit Day - Wild and Wacky Day

Wild and Wacky Day is Friday, November 17th!  We are so excited to see our Scotties dressed for our Spirit Day. Come dressed in mismatched clothes, wild hair, or wear your Bonnie Brae blue and white.

Bonnie Brae Elementary

@BonnieBraeES

Bonnie Brae ES Website

Bonnie Brae PTO

Bonnie Brae PTO Website

5420 Sideburn Rd, Fairfax, VA 22032 | Main Office: 703.321.3900
Attendance: 703.321.3939 | Web | Twitter

PTO Meeting Tonight!!!

Just a one-hour call this month can make a huge impact on our school community! Learn about the PTO, ways to get involved, and how you can contribute to positive changes for our students and teachers! 

When: TONIGHT! Wednesday, Nov. 15th at 6PM

Where: IN-PERSON at BBES Cafeteria

Virtual Streaming Option, click here: https://meet.google.com/wrt-gifz-cph?hs=224

Cultural Committee Launch

The PTO is proud to announce the launch of a new Cultural Committee and we need volunteers to help make this a success! Want to be part of helping shape the mission and activities for this committee? Click the link to fill out the form by Nov. 26th and we can get started building this great new addition to our community! https://forms.gle/XN2isXVFoo4Cd3p47 

Game Night at iCode - PTO FUNdraiser

Sign up today!!! Send the kiddos for a fun night of gaming while parents take the night off!

Who: K-6 grade students

Where: iCode in Burke: 6045 Burke Centre Pkwy, Suite 202

When: Saturday, Nov 18th from 6-9PM

Cost: $30 per participant, pizza and drinks included!

Includes 3 hours of supervised gaming by background-checked staff at iCode with other Scotties!

Registration: Click on link and scroll ALL THE WAY TO BOTTOM for the Bonnie Brae Game Night option.

http://www.icodeschool.com/burke/events/

SPACE IS LIMITED! Register early and secure your spot!

Charleston Wrap Final Orders

Missed ordering during the Charleston Wrap fundraiser? You're in luck! There's still time to order through early December and have orders shipped directly to the customer's house! The prize window is closed, but the PTO will still receive 40% of proceeds for non-personalized items and 30% on personalized items. Visit https://www.registercw.com and use our school’s code: 16200.  

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

Bonnie Brae Elementary

@BonnieBraeES

Bonnie Brae ES Website

Bonnie Brae PTO

Bonnie Brae PTO Website

5420 Sideburn Rd, Fairfax, VA 22032 | Main Office: 703.321.3900
Attendance: 703.321.3939 | Web | Twitter

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

Hello, Scottie families!  

We had a great Math & Literacy event last night!  Thank you to the families who were able to attend, and to our Bonnie Brae staff for their dedication to provide a fun learning opportunity for our Scottie students and their parents!

As we approach Veterans Day tomorrow, we want to take a moment to express our deep gratitude to the brave individuals who have served and continue to serve our country. We enjoyed a wonderful Veterans Day breakfast with our Bonnie Brae veteran connected families this morning, and we are grateful for the generous and delicious breakfast donations that were provided by the Bonnie Brae community.  To our Bonnie Brae families who have veterans among them, we extend a heartfelt thank you for the sacrifices you and your loved ones have made.

The 2nd quarter is off to a very strong start and we are looking forward to a full week of school with our students next week.  Enjoy the weekend with you family and friends!

Morgan Birge, Principal

Natalie Vershaw, Assistant Principal

Melissa Johnson, Assistant Principal

Family.  Relationships.  Success. Next Week's Events

• November 10- Chuck E. Cheese Spirit Night, 3 pm-9 pm
• November 15 - PTO Meeting (In-Person, with a Streaming Option), 6 pm -7 pm
• November 17 - SCA Spirit Day

Positivity Project

Upcoming Weekly Focus:  Gratitude

Character Strengths: You are aware of and thankful for good things
that happen.

Quote of the Week:  “The roots of all goodness lie in the soil of
appreciation for goodness.”
                                                                                          -DALAI LAMA

A few amazing highlights that happened this week... Veterans Day

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

Math and Literacy Night Resources for Parents

Check out our Math and Literacy Night Resources webpage.  Links to resources and activities shared during the family night are posted and ready for families.

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

Parents/guardians of students in Grades 2-7 who would like their student to be considered for full-time advanced academic programs may submit the AAP Full-Time (Level IV) Referral Form to Larissa Sheehan, [email protected], no later than December 15, 2023. 

The window for families to submit a referral for full-time AAP services is the first day of school through December 15, annually.  Forms for full-time and part-time referrals are available on the AAP Forms Page. No late referrals for Full-Time AAP services will be accepted. 

Submitting a referral form for full-time AAP will initiate a process that begins at the local school and is then completed at the central office level. Our school will put together a portfolio that includes multiple data which are considered holistically. At the central office level, a committee of six trained professionals from various schools and roles will review the portfolio materials to determine eligibility for full-time placement.  Eligibility decisions are communicated by early April. Parents may request a copy of the portfolio that was submitted after they have been turned in for central selection by emailing Larissa Sheehan, [email protected].

Referrals for subject-specific and part-time AAP are screened at the local school. If you miss this deadline, your student can still be screened for subject-specific AAP or part-time AAP for the remainder of the year and submit a referral for full-time AAP next fall. 

For more information, please visit the Advanced Academic Programs website.

Save the Date!  Bonnie Brae Construction Community Meeting- December 6

Bonnie Brae Elementary School will soon be under construction as work begins on a renovation that will provide modern amenities and add approximately 40,000 square feet to the building. A community meeting will be held with FCPS Design and Construction on December 6, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. in the cafeteria to learn more about what to expect as we enter this new phase of the project. 

Learn more about the Bonnie Brae Elementary School renovation.

Accessing FCPS Digital Resources At Home

FCPS students can log onto many of our digital resources for learning from their FCPS device, or a personal device.  Please visit the FCPS Digital Resources to Support Student Learning at Home webpage for information about available digital resources and links to access them. 

Student-Parent Survey for Federal Impact Aid

Please be sure to log into ParentVue to complete the Impact Aid form by November 17, 2023.  Once logged in, please select the “Online Packets” tab at the top, then select “Federal Impact Aid Survey” from the drop-down menu.  Alternatively, parents may complete and return the paper copy of the form that was sent home in Tuesday Folders this week. 

For questions regarding the Student-Parent Survey for Federal Impact Aid, please call 703-329-7750 or email [email protected] or visit https://www.fcps.edu/impact.  Additional information about Impact Aid programs and grants is available on the U.S. Department of Education's website at DoED Impact Aid Programs.  Have questions or need a ParentVue account? Contact Jenny Martinez, Student Information Assistant/Registrar by email: [email protected].

Have a ParentVue account, but need assistance? Complete this Help Request Form: https://itweb.fcps.edu/itsupport/parent/.

Community Review of Elementary ELA Basal Instructional Resources

A community review of the VDOE-approved Cycle II core instructional materials is scheduled for November 15, 2023, until noon on December 15, 2023. As part of the public review process, an open house has been scheduled during this period to allow community members to ask questions to members of the Elementary Language Arts team. Please share the information included in this communication with school staff and community by November 20, 2023.

Digital materials for public review and comment will be available on the Elementary Language Arts Basal Resource Review website.

Hard copies of instructional materials will be available for review at:

Pimmit Hills Center, Room 207 7510 Lisle Avenue Falls Church, VA 22043  

Materials may be reviewed at Pimmit Hills Center Monday - Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Visitors should enter through door #4 and check in at the main office or with the building coordinator on duty. 

An open house with representatives from the Elementary Language Arts team will be held on Friday, December 1, 2023, from 4:00 - 8:00 p.m. and Saturday, December 2, 2023, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.  

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

Chuck E. Cheese FUNdraiser - Tonight!

Chuck E. Cheese FUNdraiser - TONIGHT!

See you TONIGHT at Chuck E. Cheese! All Scotties are welcome to come and play, and 20% of sales will come back to the BBES PTO!

When: Friday, Nov. 10th from 3-9 pm 

Where:  Chuck E. Cheese, Fairfax location

Present the Chuck E. Cheese coupon sheet and mention Bonnie Brae for food or game pass purchases. 

Next PTA Meeting - November 15th! The next in-person PTO meeting is Wednesday, November 15th at 6 pm in the cafeteria.  Come make new friends, ask questions, meet other parents and teachers, and find out how you can help our school community and get connected!  We love our Scottie community and cannot wait to meet you! Use this link to stream the meeting if you cannot make it in person:  https://meet.google.com/wrt-gifz-cph.   Game Night at iCode - PTO FUNdraiser

Sign up today!!! Send the kiddos for a fun night of gaming while parents take the night off!

Who: K-6 grade students

Where: iCode in Burke - 6045 Burke Centre Pkwy, Suite 202

When: Saturday, Nov 18th from 6-9PM

Cost: $30 per participant, pizza and drinks included!

Includes 3 hours of supervised gaming by background-checked staff at iCode with other Scotties!

Registration: Click on link and scroll ALL THE WAY TO BOTTOM for the Bonnie Brae Game Night option.

http://www.icodeschool.com/burke/events/

SPACE IS LIMITED! Register early and secure your spot!

Calling all Event Planners!!!

Are you great at event planning, a leader, AND looking for a way to support our students?  The PTO is looking for an Events Lead and needs YOU!!! Make new friends, get involved, and make the magic happen for our kiddos! Events include: BINGO Night, Spring Carnival, VIP Dance, and many more! 

Contact [email protected] for more details.

PTO Volunteer Opportunities are OPEN!

Join in the fun, make an impact, and get involved! Volunteering is one of the best ways to get connected with other amazing Scottie families. Your help makes a huge difference in the lives of our students, so sign up today to help make the magic happen! Bonnie Brae PTO LOVES our amazing volunteers! 

https://forms.gle/GzbP6WzrWu5hsYtV6

View the 2023-2024 FCPS School Calendar

• November 18 - Game Night at iCode, 6 pm-9 pm
• November 22-24 - Thanksgiving Holiday (no school)
• December 1 - Parent Coffee, 8:40 am-9:15 am
• December 4-8 - PTO Chick Fil A Spirit Days
• December 6 - Bonnie Brae Construction Meeting, 6:30 pm-7:30 pm

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

Bonnie Brae Elementary

@BonnieBraeES

Bonnie Brae ES Website

Bonnie Brae PTO

Bonnie Brae PTO Website

5420 Sideburn Rd, Fairfax, VA 22032 | Main Office: 703.321.3900
Attendance: 703.321.3939 | Web | Twitter

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

Math and Literacy Night - Tonight!

This evening, Bonnie Brae is hosting a Math and Literacy Night from 6 pm - 7:30 pm for families and students. Please come and participate in fun math and literacy games and activities that students can also do at home!

 

¡Hola comunidad de Bonnie Brae! El 9 de noviembre, BBES organizará una Noche de Matemáticas y Alfabetización para familias y estudiantes. Venga y participé en divertidos juegos y actividades de matemáticas y alfabetización que los estudiantes también pueden hacer en casa!

Veterans Day Breakfast & Classroom Visits -Friday!

Bonnie Brae is excited to host our Veteran's Day Breakfast and Read Aloud event on Friday, November 10th beginning at 8:30 am in the cafeteria for Bonnie Brae families and staff who currently serve or have served in the armed forces.  We look forward to seeing our Veterans on Friday morning.

Bonnie Brae Elementary

@BonnieBraeES

Bonnie Brae ES Website

Bonnie Brae PTO

Bonnie Brae PTO Website

5420 Sideburn Rd, Fairfax, VA 22032 | Main Office: 703.321.3900
Attendance: 703.321.3939 | Web | Twitter

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

Picture Make-Up Day

Picture Make-Up Day is Thursday, November 9th for students who were absent on our September picture day, are new to Bonnie Brae, and for students who need a retake. 

Students wanting a retake should bring their original order or proof to the photographer on Thursday. 

If a student is new to Bonnie Brae or was absent on our September picture day, they should also plan on having their picture taken on November 9th. 
Picture order forms were sent home to families of students who were absent or new to Bonnie Brae.  Order forms should be brought to the photographer on Thursday.   

There will also be an opportunity to order pictures once the picture proofs are delivered to families. 

For more details, please visit our Make-Up Picture Day webpage. 

Bonnie Brae Elementary

@BonnieBraeES

Bonnie Brae ES Website

Bonnie Brae PTO

Bonnie Brae PTO Website

5420 Sideburn Rd, Fairfax, VA 22032 | Main Office: 703.321.3900
Attendance: 703.321.3939 | Web | Twitter

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

Veterans Day Breakfast & Classroom Visits

Bonnie Brae is excited to host the Veteran's Day Breakfast and Read Aloud event on Friday, November 10th beginning at 8:30 am in the cafeteria for Bonnie Brae families and staff who currently serve or have served in the armed forces.

Donations/Volunteers Needed for Veterans Day Breakfast

To make this event truly special, we kindly request breakfast donations from our generous community. Let's come together to celebrate our heroes and the values they embody. Please consider signing up by Tuesday, November 7th to help make this event a success. Thank you!

Reading To or Visiting With a Classroom

We extend a warm invitation to our honored veterans to start their day with a delicious meal, followed by a special opportunity to read a book and share their stories with our students. It's a chance for our students to learn, connect, and express their gratitude. If you can join us for breakfast and/or visit a classroom, please complete this google form. 

Submit a Photo

We will use photos submitted from the community to create a slideshow both for the event and our Bonnie Brae Bark News Show to share with students and staff.  If you would like to send in a scanned/saved photograph please email it to Jessica Martell: [email protected] by noon on Wednesday, November 9th. 

Bonnie Brae Elementary

@BonnieBraeES

Bonnie Brae ES Website

Bonnie Brae PTO

Bonnie Brae PTO Website

5420 Sideburn Rd, Fairfax, VA 22032 | Main Office: 703.321.3900
Attendance: 703.321.3939 | Web | Twitter

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

Hello, Scottie families!  

We are looking forward to a great week next week.  On Thursday, November 9, from 6-7:30 PM we will hold our BBES Math and Literacy Night!  Wear your favorite team jersey, BBES shirt, or blue shirt to the event. See below for more details!

As you might have seen in Superintendent Reid's Weekly Reflections email this past Sunday, Bonnie Brae is proud to share that we have obtained our first Purple Star School designation!  Purple Star Schools allow families to rely on an awareness and appreciation of military culture, and to be dedicated to supporting the educational and social-emotional challenges military-connected students face as they serve with their families. 

Our Purple Star School designation is timely, as on Friday, November 10 from 8:40-9:40 AM we will host a Veteran's Day breakfast and classroom Read Aloud opportunity for Bonnie Brae families who have served or currently serve in the military.  Please complete this form if you are able to attend the breakfast or participate in our Read Aloud.  We are also looking for breakfast donations from the Bonnie Brae community.  Please consider signing up if you are able to support our breakfast celebration for Scottie veteran families!

Finally, a reminder that there is no school on Monday, November 6 (School Planning Day) and Tuesday, November 7 (Teacher Workday).  Have a great weekend!   

Morgan Birge, Principal

Natalie Vershaw, Assistant Principal

Melissa Johnson, Assistant Principal

Family.  Relationships.  Success. Next Week's Events

• November 5 - Daylight Savings Time (Fall Back)
• November 6 - Student Holiday
• November 7 - Student Holiday and Election Day
• November 9 - Fall Picture Make-Up Day
• November 9 - Math and Literacy Night, 6 pm-7:30 pm
• November 10 - Veteran's Day Breakfast, 8:40 am-9:40 am
• November 10- Chuck E. Cheese Spirit Night, 3 pm-9 pm

Positivity Project

Upcoming Weekly Focus:  Self-Control

Character Strengths:You have the ability to control your emotions
and behaviors. You think before you act.

Quote of the Week:  “You have power over your mind – not outside events.
Realize this, and you will find strength.”

                                                                                          -MARCUS AURELIUS

A few amazing highlights that happened this week... Daylight Savings Time (Fall Back)

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

Election Day Is Next Week. Vote!

The 2023 School Bond Referendum will be on the ballot Tuesday, November 7. Remember to vote! 

November 7 will also be a teacher workday and a holiday for students. For more information on voting, visit the Virginia Department of Elections website.

Fall Pictures and Picture Make-Up Day

Fall picture orders and proofs were delivered this week. If a family did not order a package ahead of time, the proof sheet includes directions for ordering.

Our picture make-up day is Thursday, November 9th.  For more details, please visit our Make-Up Picture Day webpage. 

Students wanting a retake should bring their original order or proof to the photographer on November 9th. 

If a student is new to Bonnie Brae or was absent on our September picture day, they should also plan on having their picture taken on November 9th. 
We will send order forms home to families of students who were absent or new to Bonnie Brae.  The order forms should be brought to the photographer on Picture Day.        

Math and Literacy Night - November 9

On November 9, BBES will be hosting a Math and Literacy Night for families and students. Please come and participate in fun math and literacy games and activities that students can also do at home!

 

¡Hola comunidad de Bonnie Brae! El 9 de noviembre, BBES organizará una Noche de Matemáticas y Alfabetización para familias y estudiantes. Venga y participé en divertidos juegos y actividades de matemáticas y alfabetización que los estudiantes también pueden hacer en casa!

Veterans Day Breakfast & Classroom Visits

Bonnie Brae is excited to be able to host the Veteran's Day Breakfast and Read Aloud event on Friday, November 10th beginning at 8:30 am in the cafeteria for Bonnie Brae families and staff who currently serve or have served in the armed forces. We extend a warm invitation to our honored veterans to start their day with a delicious meal, followed by a special opportunity to read a book and share their stories with our students. It's a chance for our students to learn, connect, and express their gratitude. If you can submit a photo, join us for breakfast, or visit a classroom, please complete this google form. We will use photos submitted from the community to create a slideshow both for the event and for our Bonnie Brae Bark News Show to share with students.  

Donations/Volunteers Needed for Veterans Day Breakfast

To make this event truly special, we kindly request breakfast donations from our generous community. Let's come together to celebrate our heroes and the values they embody. Please consider signing up by Tuesday, November 7th to help make this event a success. Thank you!

Student-Parent Survey for Federal Impact Aid

Please be sure to log into ParentVue to complete the Impact Aid form by November 17, 2023.  Once logged in, please select the “Online Packets” tab at the top, then select “Federal Impact Aid Survey” from the drop-down menu.  Alternatively, parents may complete and return the paper copy of the form that was sent home in Tuesday Folders this week. 

For questions regarding the Student-Parent Survey for Federal Impact Aid, please call 703-329-7750 or email [email protected] or visit https://www.fcps.edu/impact.  Additional information about Impact Aid programs and grants is available on the U.S. Department of Education's website at DoED Impact Aid Programs.  Have questions or need a ParentVue account? Contact Jenny Martinez, Student Information Assistant/Registrar by email: [email protected].

Have a ParentVue account, but need assistance? Complete this Help Request Form: https://itweb.fcps.edu/itsupport/parent/.

Purple Star Designation Award for Bonnie Brae

We are excited to announce that the Virginia Council on the Educational Opportunity for Military Children voted on October 26, 2023, to approve Bonnie Brae Elementary as a recipient of the SY 2023-2024 Purple Star Award. Visit our Purple Star page to learn more about Purple Star Schools and how we support our military-connected families.

Book Fair Update

Huge thank you to everyone who helped make our annual Book Fair a success!

Outstanding Employee Awards

Each fall, Fairfax County Public Schools acknowledge Outstanding Employees. The recognition of outstanding employees begins at individual schools and then employees may be further recognized in their region and in the entire county. Nominations are now open for the Bonnie Brae community to recognize outstanding Scottie Staff.

We are accepting nominations for Bonnie Brae Elementary Staff Members for the 2023 – 2024 school year.  Please review the attached flyer for categories and next steps.  Included on the flyer is a link to a form for families to complete.

This form will help us to collect nominations for:

• Outstanding Teacher
• Outstanding New Teacher
• Outstanding New Principal
• Outstanding Leader
• Outstanding Professional Employee
• Outstanding Operational Employee

Please consider nominating an outstanding staff member, so that they may be recognized for their day-to-day efforts in supporting our students, staff, and FCPS initiatives. 

The deadline to submit a nomination is Friday, November 10, 2023.

Save the Date!  Bonnie Brae Construction Community Meeting- December 6

Bonnie Brae Elementary School will soon be under construction as work begins on a renovation that will provide modern amenities and add approximately 40,000 square feet to the building. A community meeting will be held with FCPS Design and Construction on December 6, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. in the cafeteria to learn more about what to expect as we enter this new phase of the project. 

Learn more about the Bonnie Brae Elementary School renovation.

Successfully Completing Algebra 1 by Eighth Grade

Helping students to complete Algebra 1 by eighth grade is part of our Strategic Plan (Goal 3: Academic Growth and Excellence). Algebra Access Network Improvement Community (AANIC) is working to increase the diverse representation of students who take advanced math classes and succeed in them. This video shares more about the AANIC cohorts at Kilmer and Key middle schools and lets students explain why Algebra matters to them.

Passing Algebra 1 earlier allows for students to take more advanced classes like Dual Enrollment courses, Advanced Placement (AP), and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses. These advanced courses help students succeed in college. A recent study from the Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA) found that completing Algebra 1 by grade eight led to 30% more ninth graders and 16% more 11th graders taking advanced courses.  

Provide Input on FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R)

Please join FCPS’ Chief Equity Office for a virtual meeting regarding the Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R) Regulation. The event will be held on Thursday, November 9, from 6-7:30 p.m. You may register at this link.

Your feedback will help ensure that FCPS policies align with the school division’s mission and values. It will also help identify any specific considerations that need to be addressed for the 2024-25 school year. 

Language interpretation will be available in Spanish, Korean, and Arabic. A Certified Deaf Interpreter will be available as well. Get information on the SR&R.

Family Engagement Month

National Family Engagement Month reminds us that families are children's first and most important teachers, advocates, and nurturers. More than 35 years of research shows that the most effective way to increase student achievement is for families to be actively involved in the education of their child. Strong parental and family support is vital to the well-being and success of students. FCPS has many resources for families designed to increase engagement and partnerships with families while fostering academic success and social-emotional growth. 

The national standards for family-school partnerships include welcoming all families, communicating effectively, supporting student success, speaking up for every child, sharing power, and collaborating with the community. 

The following resources are available to all FCPS families. Visit the links below to learn more about workshops and classes for families, digital and printable resources for early childhood, mental health, military families, special education, multilingual and wellness topics.

• Family Resource Center Webinar Registration and Schedule

• Family Resource Center Workshops and Webinars on YouTube
• Family Resource Center Digital Resources
• Student Safety and Wellness Resources
• Digital Citizenship Resources
• Social-Emotional Learning Resources
• Multilingual Podcast
• Quick Tips Family Engagement Library (English and Spanish)
• Parent Information Phone Line (available in eight languages for parents who do not speak English)
• Parent Education Advocacy Training Center (PEATC)

Family Liaisons

Did you know that every school has a family liaison? Family liaisons will welcome and orient families who are new to the school and community, and help them understand the school's culture, policies, procedures, and practices. They can also help connect families to resources in the community. Family liaisons might also assist a family in transitioning to a new school and encourage family-school partnerships to help ensure their student's success and healthy development.

If you have questions or would like more information, ask your school office to connect you with your family liaison or visit the Family Liaison webpage for a list of region representatives.

Native American Heritage Month

Native American Heritage Month is a time to celebrate rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories and to acknowledge the important contributions of Native Americans. It is also a time to raise a general awareness about the unique challenges they have faced both historically and in the present, and the ways in which tribal citizens have worked to conquer these challenges.  Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.

Community Review of Elementary English Language Arts Basal Instructional Resources

Fairfax County Public Schools will adopt new Elementary School Language Arts Basal Instructional Resources for the 2024-2025 school year. A review committee composed of community members, administrators, and teachers met in August to review the state-approved Cycle I materials. The committee will re-convene in January to review the state-approved Cycle II instructional materials under consideration. Public review of the recommended materials is part of the process for selecting new resources. Please share the information included in this communication with school staff and community by November 13, 2023.

Elementary English Language Arts basal instructional resources may be accessed in person and online from November 15, 2023, until noon on December 15, 2023. Digital materials for public review and comment will be available on the Elementary Language Arts Basal Resource Review website. Those reviewing instructional materials may complete an electronic comment sheet that will be available on the website during the review period.

Hard copies of instructional materials will be available for review at:

Pimmit Hills Center, Room 207 7510 Lisle Avenue Falls Church, VA 22043 

Materials may be reviewed at Pimmit Hills Center Monday - Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Visitors should enter through door #4 and check in at the main office or with the building coordinator on duty.

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

Community Table

All are welcome at the free Community Table Dinner on November 14 at Burke Presbyterian Church.  Please see the Community Table flyer for more information.  

  BBES Parent Course on Schoology: New Update A new link has been uploaded to our Parent Schoology Course.

New this week: Annandale Boys and Girls club -Winter Rec Basketball

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! 

Chuck E. Cheese FUNdraiser COMING SOON!

Mark your calendar for our next FUNdraiser at Chuck E. Cheese! All Scotties are welcome to come and play, and 20% of sales will come back to the BBES PTO!

When: Friday, Nov. 10th from 3-9 pm 

Where:  Chuck E. Cheese, Fairfax location

Present the Chuck E. Cheese coupon sheet and mention Bonnie Brae for food or game pass purchases. Hard copies of coupon sheets went home in Tuesday folders on 10/31. 

Game Night at iCode - PTO FUNdraiser

Sign up today!!! Send the kiddos for a fun night of gaming while parents take the night off!

Who: K-6 grade students

Where: iCode in Burke - 6045 Burke Centre Pkwy, Suite 202

When: Saturday, Nov 18th from 6-9PM

Cost: $30 per participant, pizza and drinks included!

Includes 3 hours of supervised gaming by background-checked staff at iCode with other Scotties!

Registration: Click on link and scroll ALL THE WAY TO BOTTOM for the Bonnie Brae Game Night option.

http://www.icodeschool.com/burke/events/

SPACE IS LIMITED! Register early and secure your spot!

Calling all Event Planners!!!

Are you great at event planning, a leader, AND looking for a way to support our students?  The PTO is looking for an Events Lead and needs YOU!!! Make new friends, get involved, and make the magic happen for our kiddos! Events include: BINGO Night, Spring Carnival, VIP Dance, and many more! 

Contact [email protected] for more details.

PTO Volunteer Opportunities are OPEN!

Join in the fun, make an impact, and get involved! Volunteering is one of the best ways to get connected with other amazing Scottie families. Your help makes a huge difference in the lives of our students, so sign up today to help make the magic happen! Bonnie Brae PTO LOVES our amazing volunteers! 

https://forms.gle/GzbP6WzrWu5hsYtV6

View the 2023-2024 FCPS School Calendar

• November 15 - PTO Meeting (In-Person), 6 pm-7 pm
• November 18 - Game Night at iCode, 6 pm-9 pm
• November 22-24 - Thanksgiving Holiday (no school)
• December 1 - Parent Coffee, 8:40 am-9:15 am
• December 4-8 - PTO Chick Fil A Spirit Days
• December 6 - Bonnie Brae Construction Meeting, 6:30 pm-7:30 pm

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

Bonnie Brae Elementary

@BonnieBraeES

Bonnie Brae ES Website

Bonnie Brae PTO

Bonnie Brae PTO Website

5420 Sideburn Rd, Fairfax, VA 22032 | Main Office: 703.321.3900
Attendance: 703.321.3939 | Web | Twitter

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

Quarter End, Early Release, Student Holiday

As a reminder today, Friday, November 3, is the last day of the first quarter, and a two-hour early release for students. Also, schools are closed for students on Monday, November 6, for a school planning day, and Tuesday, November 7, for a teacher workday. See the complete school year calendar.

Bonnie Brae Elementary

@BonnieBraeES

Bonnie Brae ES Website

Bonnie Brae PTO

Bonnie Brae PTO Website

5420 Sideburn Rd, Fairfax, VA 22032 | Main Office: 703.321.3900
Attendance: 703.321.3939 | Web | Twitter

Game Night at iCode - PTO FUNdraiser

Sign up today!!! Send the kiddos for a fun night of gaming while parents take the night off!

Who: K-6 grade students

Where: iCode in Burke: 6045 Burke Centre Pkwy, Suite 202

When: Saturday, Nov 18th from 6-9PM

Cost: $30 per participant, pizza and drinks included!

Includes 3 hours of supervised gaming by background-checked staff at iCode with other Scotties!

Registration: Click on link and scroll ALL THE WAY TO BOTTOM for the Bonnie Brae Game Night option.

http://www.icodeschool.com/burke/events/

SPACE IS LIMITED! Register early and secure your spot!

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

Bonnie Brae Elementary

@BonnieBraeES

Bonnie Brae ES Website

Bonnie Brae PTO

Bonnie Brae PTO Website

5420 Sideburn Rd, Fairfax, VA 22032 | Main Office: 703.321.3900
Attendance: 703.321.3939 | Web | Twitter

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

Hello, Scottie families!  

What a joyful day of learning today, as we celebrated our October SCA Spirit Day - Costume Day!  We also had a fantastic Fall Fest last weekend, a fun event that so many of our Scottie families were able to attend. Thank you to the PTO for organizing and to all the volunteers for supporting the Fall Fest and our Book Fair.

We have another great community event coming up on Thursday, November 9 -- Math & Literacy Night.  Come and participate in fun math and literacy games and activities that students can also do at home!

Finally, a reminder we have a two-hour early release on Friday, November 3 as the 1st grading period comes to a close.

Go Scotties!  Enjoy the weekend!

Morgan Birge, Principal

Natalie Vershaw, Assistant Principal

Melissa Johnson, Assistant Principal

Family.  Relationships.  Success. Next Week's Events

• October 30 - Final Day of the Bonnie Brae Book Fair
• November 3 - End of First Quarter, 2 Hour Early Release

Positivity Project

Upcoming Weekly Focus:  OPM - Knowing my words and actions affect others.

Character Strengths: Everything you say and do can affect others
— and your relationships with them.

Quote of the Week:  “The right word spoken at the right time can make all
the difference in building people up. Choose well.”

                                                                                              -MICHAEL HYATT

A few amazing highlights that happened this week... Bookfair

Book Fair is wrapping up! Monday, October 30 is a make-up day for students who were absent on their class’s shopping day or who still have funds left in their Scholastic eWallet.

Fall Pictures and Picture Make-Up Day

We expect to distribute fall pictures the week of October 30th.  If a family did not order a package ahead of time, the proof sheet that will be sent home will include directions for ordering.

Our picture make-up day is Thursday, November 9th.  For more details, please visit our Make-Up Picture Day webpage. 

Students wanting a retake should bring their original order or proof to the photographer on November 9th. 

If a student is new to Bonnie Brae or was absent on our September picture day, they should also plan on having their picture taken on November 9th. 
We will send order forms home to families of students who were absent or new to Bonnie Brae.  The order forms should be brought to the photographer on Picture Day.        

Math and Literacy Night - November 9

On November 9, BBES will be hosting a Math and Literacy Night for families and students. Please come and participate in fun math and literacy games and activities that students can also do at home!

 

¡Hola comunidad de Bonnie Brae! El 9 de noviembre, BBES organizará una Noche de Matemáticas y Alfabetización para familias y estudiantes. Venga y participé en divertidos juegos y actividades de matemáticas y alfabetización que los estudiantes también pueden hacer en casa!

Veterans Day Breakfast & Classroom Visits

Bonnie Brae is excited to be able to host the Veteran's Day Breakfast and Read Aloud event on Friday, November 10th beginning at 8:30 am in the cafeteria for Bonnie Brae families and staff who currently serve or have served in the armed forces. We extend a warm invitation to our honored veterans to start their day with a delicious meal, followed by a special opportunity to read a book and share their stories with our students. It's a chance for our students to learn, connect, and express their gratitude. If you can submit a photo, join us for breakfast, or visit a classroom, please complete this google form. We will use photos submitted from the community to create a slideshow both for the event and for our Bonnie Brae Bark News Show to share with students.  

Donations/Volunteers Needed for Veterans Day Breakfast

To make this event truly special, we kindly request breakfast donations from our generous community. Let's come together to celebrate our heroes and the values they embody. Please consider signing up by Tuesday, November 7th to help make this event a success. Thank you!

Community Table

All are welcome at the free Community Table Dinner on November 14 at Burke Presbyterian Church.  Please see the Community Table flyer for more information.  

Outstanding Employee Awards

Each fall, Fairfax County Public Schools acknowledge Outstanding Employees. The recognition of outstanding employees begins at individual schools and then employees may be further recognized in their region and in the entire county. Nominations are now open for the Bonnie Brae community to recognize outstanding Scottie Staff.

We are accepting nominations for Bonnie Brae Elementary Staff Members for the 2023 – 2024 school year.  Please review the attached flyer for categories and next steps.  Included on the flyer is a link to a form for families to complete.

This form will help us to collect nominations for:

• Outstanding Teacher
• Outstanding New Teacher
• Outstanding New Principal
• Outstanding Leader
• Outstanding Professional Employee
• Outstanding Operational Employee

Please consider nominating an outstanding staff member, so that they may be recognized for their day-to-day efforts in supporting our students, staff, and FCPS initiatives. 

The deadline to submit a nomination is Friday, November 10, 2023.

Portrait of a Graduate

You might have heard your child talking about Portrait of a Graduate, or POG. What is POG?  Very simply, POG is FCPS’ commitment to ensuring that all students have the skills to be successful today, tomorrow and in the future. POG is broken down into 5 important attributes:  Communicator, Collaborator, Ethical & Global Citizen, Creative & Critical Thinker, and Goal-Directed & Resilient Individual.  

Students use these skills in all school subjects, at home, in the community, with hobbies and interests, in future careers, passions, and relationships.  We’re not focusing on these skills as an extra thing, students will use these skills to learn all content areas in a deeper, more meaningful way. 

This year, Bonnie Brae Scotties are focusing on being Creative & Critical Thinkers.  Consider how you, as an adult, use this skill to find success in your life!  

How will students focus on these skills?

• Learn about the skills, including what they look and sound like, and why they are important  
• Apply the skills as they learn in their classes 
• Reflect on HOW the skills helped them find success and WHAT they can do to grow

Throughout the year, you will see and hear how your child is learning to discuss their growth in these important skills. We’re excited to see them developing skills that will help them throughout life! Learn more about Portrait of a Graduate on the FCPS POG webpage.

Tips to Help Keep Children Safe

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

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

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

FCPS Buildings Benefit All Community Members

In addition to our students and teachers, we estimate millions of visits by students and community members to Fairfax County public schools. Most of the public meeting and recreational facilities available in the county are FCPS facilities. FCPS works with the Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services and with the Fairfax County Park Authority to ensure that school facilities and athletic fields are available to the public after school hours. 

The 2023 Bond Referendum will be on the ballot in November. Vote on Tuesday, November 7. Learn more about registering to vote.

Chuck E. Cheese FUNdraiser COMING SOON!

Mark your calendar for our next FUNdraiser at Chuck E. Cheese! All Scotties are welcome to come and play, and 20% of sales will come back to the BBES PTO!

When: Friday, Nov. 10th from 3-9 pm 

Where:  Chuck E. Cheese, Fairfax location

Present the Chuck E. Cheese coupon sheet and mention Bonnie Brae for food or game pass purchases. Hard copies of coupon sheets will go home in Tuesday folders on 10/31. 

Calling all Event Planners!!!

Are you great at event planning, a leader, AND looking for a way to support our students?  The PTO is looking for an Events Lead and needs YOU!!! Make new friends, get involved, and make the magic happen for our kiddos! Events include: BINGO Night, Spring Carnival, VIP Dance, and many more! 

Contact [email protected] for more details.

PTO Volunteer Opportunities are OPEN!

Join in the fun, make an impact, and get involved! Volunteering is one of the best ways to get connected with other amazing Scottie families. Your help makes a huge difference in the lives of our students, so sign up today to help make the magic happen! Bonnie Brae PTO LOVES our amazing volunteers! 

https://forms.gle/GzbP6WzrWu5hsYtV6

View the 2023-2024 FCPS School Calendar

• November 6 - Student Holiday
• November 7 - Student Holiday and Election Day
• November 9 - Fall Picture Make-Up Day
• November 9 - Math and Literacy Night, 6 pm-7:30 pm
• November 10 - Veteran's Day Breakfast, 8:40 am-9:40 am
• November 10- Chuck E. Cheese Spirit Night, 3 pm-9 pm
• November 15 - PTO Meeting (In-Person), 6 pm-7 pm
• November 22-24 - Thanksgiving Holiday (no school)

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

Bonnie Brae Elementary

@BonnieBraeES

Bonnie Brae ES Website

Bonnie Brae PTO

Bonnie Brae PTO Website

5420 Sideburn Rd, Fairfax, VA 22032 | Main Office: 703.321.3900
Attendance: 703.321.3939 | Web | Twitter

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

SCA Spirit Day - Costume Day

Costume Day is Friday, October 27!  We are so excited to see our Scotties dressed for our Spirit Day. Come dressed in a costume or wear your Bonnie Brae blue and white.

Please keep the following guidelines in mind. Costumes must:

• Be appropriate for school.
• Be respectful to all cultures.
• Refrain from themes of violence.
• Not have any weapons.
• Have faces visible (health related face coverings are acceptable).
• Allow for full participation in the day.
• Not be bulky so that it would interfere with learning (self or others).

Bonnie Brae Elementary

@BonnieBraeES

Bonnie Brae ES Website

Bonnie Brae PTO

Bonnie Brae PTO Website

5420 Sideburn Rd, Fairfax, VA 22032 | Main Office: 703.321.3900
Attendance: 703.321.3939 | Web | Twitter

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

Parent Coffee

Our October Parent Coffee is tomorrow, Thursday, October 26th in our cafeteria.  Parents are invited to attend from 8:35-9:20 AM, with updates from our band, strings, music/chorus, and PE teachers.  We hope you are able to make it!

Teacher and Staff Appreciation Event!!!

Help us BOO our teachers and staff with breakfast on Friday Oct. 27! Click on our signup for details for food/drink donations (due by Thursday). If you're interested in helping set up on Thursday at 4:30PM, email [email protected].

Bonnie Brae Elementary

@BonnieBraeES

Bonnie Brae ES Website

Bonnie Brae PTO

Bonnie Brae PTO Website

5420 Sideburn Rd, Fairfax, VA 22032 | Main Office: 703.321.3900
Attendance: 703.321.3939 | Web | Twitter

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

Hello, Scottie families!  

We are looking forward to the PTO Fall Fest this evening, from 6-8 PM!  There will be food, games, an opportunity to visit the Book Fair, and tons of fun!  The PTO also encourages costumes to be worn at the Fall Fest. Details on the Parent Night Out PTO fundraiser, scheduled for tomorrow night, are also included in the PTO section below.  Be sure to check it out!

Next Thursday we have our October Parent Coffee.  Parents are invited to attend from 8:35-9:20 AM, with updates from our band, strings, music/chorus, and PE teachers.  We hope you are able to make it!

Friday (October 27) is our next SCA Spirit Day - Costume Day!  SCA Spirit Days are a fun opportunity for Bonnie Brae students and staff to show their Scottie spirit.  As always, everyone is encouraged to participate in Spirit days, either by dressing up, or wearing Bonnie Brae colors of blue and white!

Finally, on the horizon we have our BBES Math & Literacy Night, scheduled for November 9, from 6-7:30 PM.  More details below and to come, but we are excited to share in a fun night of learning with our Bonnie Brae families.

We hope to see you this evening.  Have a wonderful weekend!

Morgan Birge, Principal

Natalie Vershaw, Assistant Principal

Melissa Johnson, Assistant Principal

Family.  Relationships.  Success. Next Week's Events

• October 20-30 - Bonnie Brae Book Fair
• October 26 - Parent Coffee, 8:40 am-9:15 am 
• October 27 - SCA Spirit Day: Costume Day

Positivity Project

Upcoming Weekly Focus:  Creativity

Character Strengths:  You come up with new and original ways to
think about and do things.

Quote of the Week:  “You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the
more you have.”
                                                                                                -MAYA ANGELOU

A few amazing highlights that happened this week... Fall Picture Make-Up Day

Picture make-up day is Thursday, November 9th.  More information will be coming home over the next few weeks.  

SCA Spirit Day - Costume Day

We are excited that once again this year our SCA spirit day on October 27 will be…Costume Day!   As students begin to prepare for Costume Day, please keep the following guidelines in mind.

Costumes must:

• Be appropriate for school.
• Be respectful to all cultures.
• Refrain from themes of violence.
• Not have any weapons.
• Have faces visible (health related face coverings are acceptable).
• Allow for full participation in the day.
• Not be bulky so that it would interfere with learning (self or others).

Veterans Day Breakfast & Classroom Visits

Bonnie Brae is excited to be able to host the Veteran's Day Breakfast and Read Aloud event on Friday, November 10th beginning at 8:30 am in the cafeteria for Bonnie Brae families and staff who currently serve or have served in the armed forces. We extend a warm invitation to our honored veterans to start their day with a delicious meal, followed by a special opportunity to read a book and share their stories with our students. It's a chance for our students to learn, connect, and express their gratitude. If you can submit a photo, join us for breakfast, or visit a classroom, please complete this google form. We will use photos submitted from the community to create a slideshow both for the event and for our Bonnie Brae Bark News Show to share with students.  

Donations/Volunteers Needed for Veterans Day Breakfast

To make this event truly special, we kindly request breakfast donations from our generous community. Let's come together to celebrate our heroes and the values they embody. Please consider signing up by Tuesday, November 7th to help make this event a success. Thank you!

Math and Literacy Night - November 9

On November 9, Bonnie Brae will be hosting a Math and Literacy Night for families and students. Please come and participate in fun math and literacy games and activities that students can also do at home!”

Calendar Update for March 5 Presidential Primary

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

March 5 will be a school holiday for students and a virtual School Planning Day. Central offices and school offices will remain open. SACC will remain open, as it does on other professional work days.

Virginia’s Sales Tax Holiday

Virginia’s three-day sales tax holiday starts Friday, October 20, and ends Sunday, October 22. During the sales tax holiday, you can buy qualifying school supplies, clothing, footwear, emergency preparedness items, and Energy Star™ and WaterSense™ products without paying sales tax. View the Sales Tax Holiday Guidelines for more information.

Federal Impact Aid Survey: Now Online

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

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

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

Need to Register for ParentVUE? 

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

Newsletter for Military-Connected Families

Did you know that the Office of Family and School Partnerships sends a monthly newsletter for military-connected families? Subscribe today.

Dyslexia Open House

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

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

The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Saves Lives

Information was recently posted to the Healthy Minds Blog on the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline and other resources for suicide prevention. 

The Healthy Minds Blog shares information related to youth mental health and wellness. Articles include tips and strategies for increasing wellness and resiliency, as well as fostering success at home, at school, and in the community.

The Healthy Minds Blog is a collaborative project between Fairfax County Public Schools and the Prevention Unit of the Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services. Subscribe to Healthy Minds and receive a quarterly digest of articles.

Updates to School Facilities

Trends of development and housing turnover are inconsistent across the county and continue to present a facilities capacity challenge. Spaces in schools may be outdated from when buildings were originally built. 

Projects funded by the 2023 Bond Referendum may be updated to meet the current needs of students or may increase space to help relieve overcrowding and provide spaces for small-group and specialized instruction. 

Additionally, all updates to school facilities are made with energy efficiency in mind. FCPS has 220 buildings and 26.5 million square feet of building space. These buildings cost tens of millions of dollars to power each year. As the footprint of FCPS continues to grow, conserving energy for cost savings and greenhouse gas emissions reductions is of the utmost importance.

The 2023 Bond Referendum will be on the ballot in November. Vote on Tuesday, November 7. Learn more about registering to vote.

Our Schools, Our Future: Community Conversations Kick Off  

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

• Madison High School on Tuesday, October 24, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
• Liberty Middle School on Wednesday, October 25, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

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

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

Fall Festival TONIGHT!

Get dressed in your favorite costume and make your way over tonight to the Fall Festival tonight!

When: TONIGHT! Oct. 20th from 6-8PM

Where: BBES 

What: Fall themed activities and Book Fair!

Help us make this a magical event and click here to volunteer! Former Scotties are welcome to help and gain Service Hours too!

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F4DACA72BA7F85-45081356-fall 

Bonnie Brae Game Night at iCode PTO Fundraiser

Sign up today!!! Send the kiddos to a fun game night THIS SATURDAY while parents take the night off!

Who: K-6 grade students

Where: iCode in Burke

When: Saturday, October 21st from 6-9PM

Cost: $30 per participant, pizza and drinks included!

Includes 3 hours of supervised gaming by background-checked staff at iCode with other Scotties!

Registration: Click on link and scroll ALL THE WAY TO BOTTOM for the Bonnie Brae Game Night option.

http://www.icodeschool.com/burke/events/

SPACE IS LIMITED! Register early and secure your spot!

Calling all Event Planners!!!

Are you great at event planning, a leader, AND looking for a way to support our students?  The PTO is looking for an Events Lead and needs YOU!!! Make new friends, get involved, and make the magic happen for our kiddos! Events include: BINGO Night, Spring Carnival, VIP Dance, and many more! 

Contact [email protected] for more details.

PTO Volunteer Opportunities are OPEN!

Join in the fun, make an impact, and get involved! Volunteering is one of the best ways to get connected with other amazing Scottie families. Your help makes a huge difference in the lives of our students, so sign up today to help make the magic happen! Bonnie Brae PTO LOVES our amazing volunteers! 

https://forms.gle/GzbP6WzrWu5hsYtV6

View the 2023-2024 FCPS School Calendar

• November 3 - End of First Quarter, 2 Hour Early Release
• November 6 - Student Holiday
• November 7 - Student Holiday and Election Day
• November 9 - Fall Picture Make-Up Day
• November 9 - Math and Literacy Night, 6 pm-7:30 pm
• November 10 - Chuck E. Cheese Spirit Night, 3 pm-9 pm

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

Bonnie Brae Elementary

@BonnieBraeES

Bonnie Brae ES Website

Bonnie Brae PTO

Bonnie Brae PTO Website

5420 Sideburn Rd, Fairfax, VA 22032 | Main Office: 703.321.3900
Attendance: 703.321.3939 | Web | Twitter

PTO Meeting Tonight – 6 PM

Just a one-hour call this month can make a huge impact on our school community! Learn about the PTO, ways to get involved, and how you can contribute to positive changes for our students and teachers! 

When: TONIGHT! Wednesday, Oct. 18th at 6PM

Where: VIRTUAL! Click the link to sign on!

ZOOM Link: https://myfcpsk12.zoom.us/j/91401978560?pwd=UnhkRDJ1NVp1bGNRRllJTFBnbUxDQT09

Fall Festival is Coming (link fixed)!

ALL HANDS ON DECK NEEDED!!! Please consider volunteering for a one-hour slot to ensure a fun and successful Fall Festival! These events are made possible with YOUR help and support! AND it's a great chance to make new friends, have fun, and help make the magic happen for our kiddos!

When: Friday, October 20th from 6-8PM

Where: BBES 

What: Fall themed activities and Book Fair!

Help us make this a magical event and click here to volunteer! Former Scotties are welcome to help and gain Service Hours too!

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F4DACA72BA7F85-45081356-fall#/

Bonnie Brae Game Night at iCode - PTO Fundraiser

Sign up today!!! Send the kiddos to a fun game night THIS SATURDAY while parents take the night off!

Who: K-6 grade students

Where: iCode in Burke

When: Saturday, October 21st from 6-9PM

Cost: $30 per participant, pizza and drinks included!

Includes 3 hours of supervised gaming by background-checked staff at iCode with other Scotties!

 

Registration: Click on link and scroll ALL THE WAY TO BOTTOM for the Bonnie Brae Game Night option.

http://www.icodeschool.com/burke/events/

SPACE IS LIMITED! Register early and secure your spot!

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

Bonnie Brae Elementary

@BonnieBraeES

Bonnie Brae ES Website

Bonnie Brae PTO

Bonnie Brae PTO Website

5420 Sideburn Rd, Fairfax, VA 22032 | Main Office: 703.321.3900
Attendance: 703.321.3939 | Web | Twitter