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Dear Dragons, 

Our PTA is getting a good start! Please join other parents at the PTA meeting this Wednesday at 6:30, in the library. Their first event will be a movie night on Friday, February 21st at 6:00 PM. We will be watching Inside Out 2. There is no fee to join in watching the movie, but they will accept donations for the PTA and have snacks available for sale. Please come out and support Dogwood and the PTA. All funds are used for your child’s education experience. 

Thank you for your partnership. 

Kate Beckner

Proud Principal

Congragulations to Mrs. Adam's fourth grade classroom for their strong attendance. They celebrated today with hot chocolate and games in the cafeteria. Way to go! 

Region 1 Winner- Outstanding Teacher

Congratulations to Mr. Jason Ericson, our Regional Winner for Outstanding Teacher! We’ll be cheering him on at the county awards ceremony and wishing him the best of luck. Mr. Ericson’s unwavering dedication, passion, and commitment to the growth and success of our Dogwood Dragons inspire us all!

Coat Drive- Langston Hughes Middle School

You're invited to a special coat event at Langston Hughes Middle School on February 19th! We warmly welcome all elementary school families to come and pick up new coats between 4:00 and 6:00 PM at Door #10. Please see attached flyer for details.

Dogwood PTA Meeting

Join us for our next general PTA meeting this Wednesday, February 19th at 6:30 PM in the library. We will send out the link so that you can join. We hope to see you there!

Three Hour Early Release- February 24th

Our next early release will be on Monday, February 24th, with dismissal at 12:35 PM. All students will follow the same dismissal plan as the previous early release (December) unless we are notified of any changes.

If there are any changes to how your children will go home or the time they will be picked up, please notify your child’s teacher as soon as possible no later than February 19th. No changes can be made after this date. Also, if you are unsure what their December plan was please reach out to your child’s teacher. 

Important: Only reach out to your child’s teacher if you are making changes to their pick-up time or transportation or if  your child is new to Dogwood. 

Please ensure your child is aware of how they will be going home on Early Release Monday’s.

🐻 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. 

Dogwood Elementary School will be hosting their Kindergarten Orientation event for families and rising kindergarteners on April 24th from 4:30- 6:30 PM. We hope to see you there! 

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.

Read Across America Celebration 

An award-winning author and former Reston resident, Kwame Alexander, will be celebrating Read Across America and the Tenth Anniversary of Crossover on Sunday, March 2nd at 2:30PM at Langston Hughes Middle School!  There will be something for everyone including special guests, food, fun, giveaways, and books! 

🤧 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.

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. 

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. 

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• Flu Prevention
• Students Spread Joy
• Investing in our Classrooms

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

Fairfax County Public Schools 2024-2025 Standard School Year Calendar

• February 19: Langston Hughes Coat Drive 4:00-6:00 PM 
• February 19: PTA Meeting 6:30 PM Dogwood Library 
• February 21: Movie Night! Inside out 2 @6PM
• February 24: Three Hour Early Release 12:35 PM

12300 Glade Drive Reston, VA 20191 | Main Office: 703-262-3100
Attendance: 703-262-3131 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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Dear Dragons, 

Dogwood is proud to celebrate Black History! Throughout the month, our students will engage in meaningful activities that highlight the achievements, contributions, and voices of Black leaders, past and present. Together, we honor the rich history, culture, and resilience that continue to shape our world. Please look below to see pictures of our Dogwood’s dream art in the main foyer to celebrate and honor Martin Luther King Jr. 

One of the most beautiful aspects of Dogwood ES is our rich diversity. Ramadan, a significant time for our Muslim families, begins at the end of the month. If your family observes this holy month and you have specific requests for your child, please complete the form coming home with your preferences. To maintain a supportive and consistent school environment, students with accommodations will follow them throughout Ramadan unless a parent contacts us to make a change.

Our PTA is up and running. Please join us for the next PTA meeting on Wednesday, Feb 19th at 6:30 PM in the school library. We look forward to working together. 

Thank you for your partnership, 

Kate Beckner

Proud Principal

January PEACE Dragon

 

We are thrilled to share that Ms. Johnson and Ms. McShane have received the PEACE Dragon Award for the month of January, as nominated by their peers, in recognition of their exceptional dedication and steadfast commitment to both our students and their families.

Through their thoughtful approach, strong commitment to understanding each student, and active participation in the school community, Ms. Johnson and Ms. McShane are making a lasting impact.

Let's come together to celebrate Ms. Johnson and Ms. McShane for this well-earned acknowledgment. Their kindness, dedication, and ability to build meaningful connections with students and families perfectly reflect the heart of what makes our school a truly remarkable place!

Dogwood PTA Meeting

Join us for our next general PTA meeting on Wednesday, February 19th at 6:30 PM in our library. We hope to see you there!

Three Hour Early Release- February 24th

Our next early release will be on Monday, February 24th, with dismissal at 12:35 PM. All students will follow the same dismissal plan as the previous early release (December) unless we are notified of any changes.

If there are any changes to how your children will go home or the time they will be picked up, please notify your child’s teacher as soon as possible no later than February 19th. No changes can be made after this date. Also, if you are unsure what their December plan was please reach out to your child’s teacher. 

Important: Only reach out to your child’s teacher if you are making changes to their pick-up time or transportation or if  you child is new to Dogwood. 

Please ensure your child is aware of how they will be going home on Early Release Monday’s.

💕 A Picture-Perfect Valentine’s Surprise! 📸💌

Parents, we’ve got something sweet for you! Each student will be bringing home a special package of personalized Valentines, featuring their adorable school photo on one side and a Valentine message to a friend on the other.

If you’d like to keep this precious set, simply send $12 in the envelope provided within the package to school.   Not interested? No worries—just return the package, no heartbreak involved!

These valentines are way cuter than the ones from the store—because they come with your kiddo’s smiling face! We love and appreciate your support for this fundraiser!

❤️🖤 Celebrating Love & Leaders SPIRIT WEEK! 💛💚

Honoring Black History, spreading kindness, and dreaming big—because love and leadership shape our world!

Spirit Week Days

2/13- Thursday: Stronger Together -Dogwood Day- Show school pride and unity by wearing Dogwood gear or school colors to show we are stronger together!

2/14- Friday:  Kindness Counts - Wear Hearts, Pink or Red- Show love and kindness by wearing hearts or Valentine’s colors. Give a compliment or kind note to someone!

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

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

1. Determine eligibility. 
2. Identify your local school. 
3. Gather documents. 
4. Fill out forms. 
5. Schedule an appointment.

After the appointment at the school (the student and one guardian must be present), the student will be ready for Kindergarten Orientation, save the date for April 24th at 4:30 PM at Dogwood ES. Read more about the registration process. For additional information, please contact Erin Silvan [email protected] 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. 

Read Across America Celebration 

An award-winning author and former Reston resident, Kwame Alexander, will be celebrating Read Across America and the Tenth Anniversary of Crossover on Sunday, March 2nd at 2:30PM at Langston Hughes Middle School!  There will be something for everyone including special guests, food, fun, giveaways, and books! 

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!

FCPS Proposed Budget Progress

The Fairfax County School Board discussed the FCPS 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 February 4, where they invited the community to share their feedback on the proposed budget.

 

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

Our families want their children in high-quality schools with the best teachers who provide rigorous academic experiences. FCPS 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. 

🗺️ 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.

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.

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 will be 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. 

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• Proposed Budget Progress
• Apply for Dual Immersion and Magnet Lotteries
• Black History Month Event

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.  

 

Fairfax County Public Schools 2024-2025 Standard School Year Calendar

• February 13: 100th Day of School
• February 17: George Washington’s Birthday: School Holiday
• February 19: PTA Meeting 6:30 PM Dogwood Library 
• February 24: Three Hour Early Release 12:35 PM

 

12300 Glade Drive Reston, VA 20191 | Main Office: 703-262-3100
Attendance: 703-262-3131 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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Dear Dogwood Dragon Families,

This week, we celebrate National School Counselor Appreciation! Our counselors work tirelessly to support our students' social-emotional well-being, and we are incredibly grateful for their dedication.

I’m excited to introduce Emily Hudenburg, a proud South Lakes High School graduate! She attended JMU and joined Dogwood this year, bringing a deep passion for ensuring every student feels confident and supported. Her warmth and enthusiasm are truly felt throughout our school community.

We are also thrilled to recently welcome Jim Franklin, an experienced FCPS counselor, who joined our team this week. He will be supporting Dogwood part-time while also working at Fox Mill ES. His expertise and commitment to student success make him a wonderful addition to our school.

Please join me in thanking Ms. Hudenburg and Mr. Franklin for their hard work, kindness, and compassion. We are so fortunate to have them as part of our Dogwood family!

Exciting news—Dogwood is putting on its first-ever musical! Thanks to a grant from NextStop Theatre, our students will have the opportunity to perform The Jungle Book. This incredible program is fully funded, opening the doors for more students to experience the magic of theater. Spots are still available, so consider this after-school activity for your child!

Next week, we come together to celebrate history, love, and community through Spirit Week. It’s a wonderful time to unite in strength, share our joy, and dream of what’s possible. Be sure to check out the details below and encourage your child to participate!

As always, our Dogwood community is filled with kindness and care. Thank you for your continued support in making our school such a special place to learn and grow.

With gratitude,

Kate Beckner

Proud Principal

💕 A Picture-Perfect Valentine’s Surprise! 📸💌

Parents, we’ve got something sweet for you! Each student will be bringing home a special package of personalized Valentines, featuring their adorable school photo on one side and a Valentine message to a friend on the other.

If you’d like to keep this precious set, simply send $12 in the envelope provided within the package to school.   Not interested? No worries—just return the package, no heartbreak involved!

These valentines are way cuter than the ones from the store—because they come with your kiddo’s smiling face! We love and appreciate your support for this fundraiser!

❤️🖤 Celebrating Love & Leaders SPIRIT WEEK! 💛💚

Honoring Black History, spreading kindness, and dreaming big—because love and leadership shape our world!

Spirit Week Days

2/10- Monday: Colors of Culture - Wear Red, Green, Yellow, or Black- Kick off the week by wearing the colors of Black History Month!

2/11- Tuesday: Future Leaders - Dress for Success- Dress like what you want to be when you grow up—because you can be a future leader, too!

2/12- Wednesday: Dream Big! - Pajama Day- Honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s dream by wearing PJs! Dream big, rest up, and remember that your dreams matter!

2/13- Thursday: Stronger Together -Dogwood Day- Show school pride and unity by wearing Dogwood gear or school colors to show we are stronger together!

2/14- Friday:  Kindness Counts - Wear Hearts, Pink or Red- Show love and kindness by wearing hearts or Valentine’s colors. Give a compliment or kind note to someone!

WIDA ACCESS for ELLS

The WIDA test is a state assessment that measures your child’s progress in learning English. It helps determine the support they need and ensures they receive the right resources to succeed.

Please do your best to make sure your child is present on testing days. A good night’s sleep, a healthy breakfast, and arriving on time can make a big difference!

Testing days vary based on grade level and student accommodations. Reach out to your child’s teacher for the exact date your child will be tested.

Thank you for your support in helping your child do their best!

Exciting New After-School Opportunity for Grades 3-6!

There are still spaces left!!

Here’s what you need to know:

🌟 What: Students will be coached in acting, singing, dancing, and character development.

🌟 Who: Open to all 3rd-6th graders—no experience needed!

🌟 Cost: Absolutely FREE for families!

🌟 When: Mondays and Thursdays, 3:45–5:25 PM~ First rehearsal is Monday, February 10.                                                                                     

🌟 Transportation: Bus transportation will be provided for students who are usually bus riders.

📄 How to Register:

• A registration form was sent home. Contact the office if you need another one.
• If you'd like to register now, fill out the Google form here: bit.ly/StarsonStageatDogwood.

🙋‍♂️ We Need Parent Volunteers!There are many ways you can help! If you’re interested in helping with this program, please complete our Parent Volunteer form:Parent Volunteer Sign Up

Three Hour Early Release- February 24th

Our next early release will be on Monday, February 24th, with dismissal at 12:35 PM. All students will go home at the usual time and by the usual mode of transportation unless we are notified of a change. We will follow the same schedule per the December schedule. 

If there are any changes to how your child will go home or the time they will be picked up, please notify your child’s classroom teacher by Wednesday, January 19th.

Important: Only reach out to your child’s teacher if you are making changes to their pick-up time or transportation.

Please ensure your child is aware of how they will be going home on Early Release Monday’s.

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.

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

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

1. Determine eligibility. 
2. Identify your local school. 
3. Gather documents. 
4. Fill out forms. 
5. Schedule an appointment.

After the appointment at the school (the student and one guardian must be present), the student will be ready for Kindergarten Orientation, save the date for April 24th at 4:30 PM at Dogwood ES. Read more about the registration process. For additional information, please contact Erin Silvan [email protected] 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. 

🏅 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 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.

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.

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• FY 2026 Proposed Budget
• Student-Driven Lunch Menus
• Inclusion Awards Nominations

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.  

Fairfax County Public Schools 2024-2025 Standard School Year Calendar

• February 12: 100th Day of School 

• February 17: George Washington’s Birthday: School Holiday 

• February 24: Three Hour Early Release 12:35 PM

 

12300 Glade Drive Reston, VA 20191 | Main Office: 703-262-3100
Attendance: 703-262-3131 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Dear Dogwood Dragons,

This week at Dogwood was truly special! We were honored to welcome Fatima Shah, a Dogwood alumna and author of Malcolm, It’s a Metaphor!, who visited our 3rd and 4th graders. Fatima, originally from Afghanistan, immigrated to the U.S. in the 1990s and once walked the same halls as our students. Her journey of perseverance and hard work resonated deeply with them, reinforcing the importance of chasing dreams. She currently has three books available on Amazon and is working on her fourth—be sure to check them out!

Looking ahead, don’t miss our Chuck E. Cheese fundraiser on Thursday, January 30th to support our 4th graders' trip to Jamestown! I’ll be picking up some extra tokens to take on any challengers, so bring your best game! Simply mention Dogwood at checkout, and 20% of the proceeds will go directly to our school.

Thank you for your continued support. 

Kate Beckner

Proud Principal

Exciting New After-School Opportunity for Grades 3-6!

We’re thrilled to announce a fantastic new program for our students in grades 3-6: NextStop Theatre's Stars on Stage Program, featuring the musical Jungle Book!

Here’s what you need to know:🌟 What: Students will be coached in acting, singing, dancing, and character development.🌟 Who: Open to all 3rd-6th graders—no experience needed!🌟 Cost: Absolutely FREE for families!🌟 When: Rehearsals are on Mondays and Thursdays, 3:45–5:25 PM.🌟 Transportation: Bus transportation will be provided for students who are usually bus riders.

📄 How to Register:

• A registration form (see below) will be sent home in Thursday folders next week.
• If you'd like to register now, fill out the Google form here: bit.ly/StarsonStageatDogwood
• Registration forms are due Thursday, January 30.

🙋‍♂️ We Need Parent Volunteers!There are many ways you can help! If you’re interested in helping with this program, please complete our Parent Volunteer form:Parent Volunteer Sign Up

We can’t wait to see our Dogwood Dragons shine in this incredible program. Thank you to NextStop Theatre for bringing this exciting opportunity to our students!

Let’s make Jungle Book a roaring success!

Chuck e’ Cheese Night 

You’re invited to join 4th Grade for a field trip fundraiser at Chuck E. Cheese on Thursday, January 30th from 3pm to 9pm. Say “I’m here for Dogwood!” or bring the flyer that will be sent in Thursday folders this week. This fundraiser will be supporting the 4th Grade students who go to Jamestown in March. 

Chuck E. Cheese is located at 2465 Centreville Rd Ste. J9, Herndon, VA 20171. 

Thank you and we hope to see you at Chuck E. Cheese on January 30th! 

Visit Fairfax County’s website for Winter Weather/Extreme Cold safety tips. 

If you need assistance getting cold-weather clothing for your family, please contact our family liaison, Andy Sigle [email protected] and Carmen Fonseca Londono [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. 

Free Books for All! Saturday, February 8th Lorton, VA 🏗️ 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.

📍 Virtual Community Boundary Review Meetings

If you have not been able to attend an FCPS 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:

• Saturday, January 25, 9:30-11 a.m. 
• Monday, January 27, 6:30-8 p.m. 
• Tuesday, January 28, 6:30-8 p.m. 
• Monday, February 10, 6:30-8 p.m. 

Click one of the dates above to register and receive your unique Zoom link. 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.

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• SOL Score Reports
• Upcoming Budget Presentation
• Science Fair Judges Needed

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.  

Fairfax County Public Schools 2024-2025 Standard School Year Calendar

• January 30: Chuck E’ Cheese in Herndon 3:00-9:00 PM
• February 17: George Washington’s Birthday: School Holiday 
• February 24: Three Hour Early Release 12:35 PM

12300 Glade Drive Reston, VA 20191 | Main Office: 703-262-3100
Attendance: 703-262-3131 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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Good Afternoon, Dogwood Dragons,

This spring, we are thrilled that our 4th-grade students will have the opportunity to visit Jamestown! This trip provides a hands-on experience with history and brings learning to life in an unforgettable way. However, it is also a costly trip, and we want to ensure that every student can participate.

To help make this possible, we are hosting a Chuck E. Cheese Night on January 30th after school. This is a great chance to come together as a community, have fun, and support our 4th graders. I’ll be there with extra tokens, ready to take on students in a few friendly game competitions! We’d love to see you there.

If you’re unable to attend but would still like to help, you can sponsor a student by donating $20 to support their trip. Donations can be brought to the main office or sent in with your child—just include a note indicating that it’s for the 4th-grade trip.

I am so grateful to be part of this wonderful community, where we support one another 

Here are the fliers in several languages. They are also posted in the windows of the main office. 

English - Spanish - Amharic - Arabic - Urdu  - 

Please call the school at 703-262-3100 if you have any questions. 

With deep appreciation, 

Principal Beckner

Our Pre-K students were able to meet some of our local firemen last week and explore the firetruck. 

Dragons had fun representing their playoff team last Friday! Who do you think will be our next Super Bowl champ? 

Student Testing Updates 

WIDA ACCESS for ELLS~ TESTING BEGINS!

WIDA ACCESS for ELLs is an English language proficiency test measuring academic English skills. Families of ELL students received a Notification of Testing letter earlier this month. Testing begins this week and continues through March. Contact your child’s teacher for specific test dates.

To help your child prepare, ensure they get plenty of sleep and eat breakfast on test days. New to WIDA? Check your child’s Thursday folder this week for a flyer with more information or visit FCPS webpage, WIDA and WIDA Screener.

Student Assessment Summary Report

Under a VDOE directive, students enrolled in FCPS as of fall 2024 who took an SOL test by June 2024, will receive a report showing SOL results from tests taken leading up to the 2023-24 school year. Results are displayed using state percentile ranks (scaled scores are not included). For more details, visit the FCPS public webpage: Virginia’s Student Assessment Summary.

Reports will be sent home in English this week in Thursday folders for families without ParentVUE. If you have ParentVUE, you can view the report in your home language. 

To sign up for ParentVUE and access information about your child’s attendance, class performance, and assessment scores, visit our FCPS Webpage, ParentVUE Student Overview, or contact our SIA, Ms. Silvan, at [email protected].

Exciting New After-School Opportunity for Grades 3-6!

We’re thrilled to announce a fantastic new program for our students in grades 3-6: NextStop Theatre's Stars on Stage Program, featuring the musical Jungle Book!

Here’s what you need to know:🌟 What: Students will be coached in acting, singing, dancing, and character development.🌟 Who: Open to all 3rd-6th graders—no experience needed!🌟 Cost: Absolutely FREE for families!🌟 When: Rehearsals are on Mondays and Thursdays, 3:45–5:25 PM.🌟 Transportation: Bus transportation will be provided for students who are usually bus riders.

📄 How to Register:

• A registration form (see below) will be sent home in Thursday folders next week.
• If you'd like to register now, fill out the Google form here: bit.ly/StarsonStageatDogwood
• Registration forms are due Thursday, January 30.

🙋‍♂️ We Need Parent Volunteers!There are many ways you can help! If you’re interested in helping with this program, please complete our Parent Volunteer form:Parent Volunteer Sign Up

We can’t wait to see our Dogwood Dragons shine in this incredible program. Thank you to NextStop Theatre for bringing this exciting opportunity to our students!

Let’s make Jungle Book a roaring success!

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. We 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.

Visit Fairfax County’s website for Winter Weather/Extreme Cold safety tips. 

If you need assistance getting cold-weather clothing for your family, please contact our family liaison, Andy Sigle [email protected] and Carmen Fonseca Londono [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. 

Thank You Custodians! 

While a significant and integral part of our role is educating children, our primary role is keeping them safe as they travel to school, are in attendance at school, and when they depart from school. We are grateful for our amazing custodial team to ensure that the sidewalks and parking lots are always safe and passable for our entire Dogwood community. Please join us in extending a BIG THANK YOU to Mr. Chung, Ms. Herrera, Ms. Osegueda, Mr. Tawdoroys, Mr. Trinh. 

Chuck e’ Cheese Night 

You’re invited to join 4th Grade for a field trip fundraiser at Chuck E. Cheese on Thursday, January 30th from 3pm to 9pm. Say “I’m here for Dogwood!” or bring the flyer that will be sent in Thursday folders this week. This fundraiser will be supporting the 4th Grade students who go to Jamestown in March. 

Chuck E. Cheese is located at 2465 Centreville Rd Ste. J9, Herndon, VA 20171. 

Thank you and we hope to see you at Chuck E. Cheese on January 30th! 

Visit Fairfax County’s website for Winter Weather/Extreme Cold safety tips. 

If you need assistance getting cold-weather clothing for your family, please contact our family liaison, Andy Sigle [email protected] and Carmen Fonseca Londono [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. 

Quarter End, Early Release, and Student Holiday

Tuesday, January 28, is the last day of the quarter. See the complete school year calendar.

Lunar New Year

FCPS has designated Lunar New Year as a religious and cultural observance day. Specific events that cannot be made up will not be held on these observance days. This year, Lunar New Year falls at quarter end on Wednesday, January 29. The day will be a teacher work day and there will be no school for students. 

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• Dress Children Warmly
• Proposed Construction Projects
• Dual Language Immersion Lottery

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.  

Fairfax County Public Schools 2024-2025 Standard School Year Calendar

• January 28: Last Day of 2nd Quarter 
• January 29: Lunar New Year: No school for students 
• January 30: Chuck E’ Cheese in Herndon 3:00-9:00 PM
• February 17: George Washington’s Birthday: School Holiday 
• February 24: Three Hour Early Release 12:35 PM

12300 Glade Drive Reston, VA 20191 | Main Office: 703-262-3100
Attendance: 703-262-3131 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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Happy Birthday Dr. King!

Join us in honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy by celebrating dreams and service!

• Volunteer Opportunity- 2025 MLK Day of Service Projects: Spend time serving our community at the Southgate Community Center. You can register to attend via email or phone: Ha Brock, RA's Volunteer Reston Manager, at 703-435-7986 or [email protected].
• At-Home Connection- Dream Doves Initiative: Talk with your child about their dreams and help them complete their "Dream Dove." If they didn’t bring one home, no worries! The most important part is the conversation—take this chance to learn about your child’s hopes for the future.

 

Let’s honor Dr. King by coming together as a community and inspiring our students to dream big!

Exciting New After-School Opportunity for Grades 3-6!

We’re thrilled to announce a fantastic new program for our students in grades 3-6: NextStop Theatre's Stars on Stage Program, featuring the musical Jungle Book!

Here’s what you need to know:🌟

What: Students will be coached in acting, singing, dancing, and character development.🌟

Who: Open to all 3rd-6th graders—no experience needed!🌟

Cost: Absolutely FREE for families!🌟

When: Rehearsals are on Mondays and Thursdays, 3:45–5:25 PM.🌟

Transportation: Bus transportation will be provided for students who are usually bus riders.

📄 How to Register:

• A registration form (see below) will be sent home in Thursday folders next week.
• If you'd like to register now, fill out the Google form here: bit.ly/StarsonStageatDogwood
• Registration forms are due Thursday, January 30.

🙋‍♂️ We Need Parent Volunteers! There are many ways you can help! If you’re interested in helping with this program, please complete our Parent Volunteer form:Parent Volunteer Sign Up

We can’t wait to see our Dogwood Dragons shine in this incredible program. Thank you to NextStop Theatre for bringing this exciting opportunity to our students!

Let’s make Jungle Book a roaring success!

12300 Glade Drive Reston, VA 20191 | Main Office: 703-262-3100
Attendance: 703-262-3131 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

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Dear Dragons, 

Welcome back and Happy New Year!!!! We missed seeing all of you and we are glad to be back and together once again. 

This weekend is a 3 Day Weekend.

Ms. Adam’s classroom celebrates Inclusive Schools Week by making sweaters specific to them and illustrating what makes them unique.

PEACE Dragon

We are excited to announce that Ms. Escobar and Ms. Riddle have been awarded the PEACE Dragon for the month of December recognized by their colleagues for their outstanding dedication and unwavering commitment to our students and families.

Ms. Riddle and Ms. Escobar’s thoughtful approach, dedication to getting to know each student, and active involvement in the school community truly make a difference.

Please join us in congratulating Ms. Riddle and Ms. Escobar for this well-deserved recognition. Their compassion, hard work, and ability to foster positive connections with students and families embody the very essence of what makes our school such a special place!

Literacy Resources 

We believe families are key to developing literacy. This page has resources to help you encourage literacy at home. It also has info to help you partner with your student's teacher and school staff in supporting your student's literacy progress in reading and writing.

Pacing is the how and when teachers teach the standards. Each school division creates its own pacing found here using this link. These pacing overviews are examples of how and when teachers organize and teach the curriculum. They are organized by quarter and by week. All grades have begun their new units. Please check in with your students to inquire about what they are learning in their new unit. 

ST Math 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. 

To learn more about Family Math Nights, check out this video. We hope that all schools will help spread the word and work collaboratively to help us reach our goal of logging on for three million minutes as an FCPS community. 

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

Chuck e’ Cheese Night

You’re invited to join 4th Grade for a field trip fundraiser at Chuck E. Cheese on Thursday, January 30th from 3pm to 9pm. Say “I’m here for Dogwood!” or bring the flyer that will be sent in Thursday folders this week. This fundraiser will be supporting the 4th Grade students who go to Jamestown in March. 

Chuck E. Cheese is located at 2465 Centreville Rd Ste. J9, Herndon, VA 20171. 

Thank you and we hope to see you at Chuck E. Cheese on January 30th! 

Friendly Reminder: FCPS Trust Policy Information For Families

As we navigate the months ahead, many families are experiencing anxiety and uncertainty due to the recent Presidential Election and ongoing discussions surrounding immigration policies. 

In 2022, the School Board adopted the Trust Policy, reaffirming its commitment to providing a safe and welcoming environment for all students and their families. This policy aligns FCPS with Fairfax County’s Public Trust and Confidentiality Policy ensuring that students and families can access school division benefits and services without fear that their information will be disclosed to federal immigration officials.

📑 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.

2025 MLK Day of Service Projects | Saturday, Jan. 18 | 9 am – Noon 

Join friends and neighbors in honoring Dr. King’s legacy by serving your community. Volunteer Reston & RCC is partnering with the Cathy Hudgins Community Center at Southgate, Reston Association, Cornerstones and the Closet on community service projects. Below you will find information on various opportunities to volunteer. 

Project Site: ALL the projects below will take place at  Cathy Hudgins Community Center at Southgate – 12125 Pinecrest Road, Reston, VA

All ages welcome, under 14 must be accompanied by an adult

Donated Toys with the Closet| 9am – Noon – Must be 14+

The Closet is a nonprofit thrift shop in the heart of historic downtown Herndon. The Closet donates clothing without charge to needy persons, after referral by an authorized social service agency, the homeless shelter, or by a sponsoring congregation. Most important to their mission is utilization of their profits for projects that will directly or indirectly benefit low income families.

Volunteers will help organize & sort toy items that have been donated to the Closet for resale.

Outdoor Litter Cleanup (weather permitting) ­ | 10 – 11am & 11am - Noon

Pruning, picking up litter and clearing debris in the natural areas, basketball court, pathways around Cathy Hudgins Community Center.  Gloves, grabbers and trash bags will be provided.

Organizing and Cleaning Community Kitchen| 10am - Noon | Must be 16+

The Southgate Community Center offers multicultural programs for families, adults, children, teens, seniors and individuals with disabilities. The programs and services are based on the needs and requests of the community as communicated through the Southgate Advisory Council. Most of the programs and services offered at Cathy Hudgins Community Center are free or fee based.

Volunteers will help organize the kitchen.

Bagged lunches with Cornerstones | 9am – 11am

Volunteers will help prepare bag lunches at the Community Center for the Embry Rucker Community Shelter or families participating in their Supportive Housing program.

❄️ Be Among the First to Hear About School Delays/Closings

Watch this video to see how FCPS makes weather closing decisions. 

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

Be among the first to hear about weather delays and closings! Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE. Emails and text messages are sent to parents and caregivers based on the addresses and cell phone numbers entered on this platform.

🗺️ Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration

Registration for the countywide lottery for FCPS’ Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program will open on Monday, January 13, 2025. Current pre-K students may apply for the kindergarten immersion program, and current kindergarten students may apply for the first grade immersion program for the 2024-25 school year. 

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

Parents/caregivers who are interested may want to attend an informational meeting held at the school site. Visit the Dual Language Immersion Program Registration page for a list of meetings by language offered. 

Get more information on the DLI Program webpage and the DLI Program Registration webpage.

🖥️ Free Webinars and Events for Families

In January, the Family Resource Center (FRC) will host webinars for families on:

• Overcoming School Refusal and Resistance
• Virtual Meeting for Siblings of Children with Special Needs
• FCPS Math Week
• Supporting Your Child’s Executive Functioning Skills
• Depression in Teens
• Understanding Trauma in Your Child/Comprendiedo el Trauma en su Hijo (presented in Spanish)

Sign up for the FRC newsletter or visit their webinar webpage.

Upcoming Family Academy Events

You are an important part of your child's education! The FCPS Family Academy compiles classes, webinars, workshops, and programs offered by FCPS to help you support your child's needs and learning at home. Browse Family Academy offerings.

📍 Comprehensive Boundary Review Update

The Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee held its second meeting on December 16 at Gatehouse Administration Center. View key takeaways from that meeting and access the meeting agenda, slides, and other materials that committee members received.  If you did not get a chance to attend an in-person Community Boundary Review Meeting, please consider participating in one of the following virtual meetings:

• Thursday, January 16, 2025, 1-2:30 p.m. 

• Saturday, January 25, 2025, 9:30-11 a.m. 

• Monday, January 27, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

• Tuesday, January 28, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

• Monday, February 10, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

. 

Language interpretation will be available. 

All virtual meetings will follow the same format as the in-person meetings that were recently held, and the same information will be shared. Please stay tuned for details on how to register. Visit FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage to learn more. Sign up for FCPS’ School Boundary Review newsletter as well.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day Holiday

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

Quarter End, Early Release, and Student Holiday

Tuesday, January 28, is the last day of the quarter. See the complete school year calendar.

Lunar New Year

FCPS has designated Lunar New Year as a religious and cultural observance day. Specific events that cannot be made up will not be held on these observance days. This year, Lunar New Year falls at quarter end on Wednesday, January 29. The day will be a teacher work day and there will be no school for students.

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration
• Be Among the First to Hear About Closings/Delays
• Fall 2024 Sports Champions

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.  

 

Fairfax County Public Schools 2024-2025 Standard School Year Calendar

• January 17: Playoffs Spiritt Day 
• January 20: Dr. Martin Luther King's Birthday; school closed 
• January 28: Last Day of 2nd Quarter 
• January 29: Lunar New Year: No school for students 
• January 30: Chuck E' Cheese in Herndon 3:00-9:00 PM

12300 Glade Drive Reston, VA 20191 | Main Office: 703-262-3100
Attendance: 703-262-3131 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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Dear Dogwood Families,

We hope you've been enjoying the extended break and the snow! We can’t wait to welcome all of our Dragons back soon.

Below is a message from our PTA. Please refer to the attached flyer for details on how you can become a member and get involved.

We look forward to seeing you all back at school!

12300 Glade Drive Reston, VA 20191 | Main Office: 703-262-3100
Attendance: 703-262-3131 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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Dear Dragons,

As we approach the end of 2024, there is so much for us to celebrate! From academic achievements to extracurricular successes, our school community has truly excelled this year.

Our dedicated teachers have worked tirelessly to implement the new comprehensive Language Arts Curriculum, Benchmark. This intensive and fast-paced program is designed to challenge and elevate all students in their reading abilities.

We’ve also expanded our extracurricular offerings, including Math Club, sports clubs, ITZART, our first Science Olympiad competition, and after-school academic interventions. A significant milestone this year was the re-establishment of our chartered PTA and the nomination of our new PTA board—the first since before COVID.

As an IB World School offering the Primary Years Programme, Dogwood ES continues to lead the way in fostering deeper thinking and inquiry-based learning. This year, we also piloted Student-Led Conferences, where students guided the conversation about their progress and abilities in the classroom. These conferences were powerful, meaningful experiences for both students and caregivers, and we look forward to building on their success in the future.

We are excited for all that 2025 will bring and the opportunities it holds for our students and community.

Wishing you and your families peace, joy, and rest over the winter break. Happy Holidays and a very Happy New Year!

Sincerely, 

Kate Beckner

Proud Principal

Dogwood Winter Cheer 

🎄✨ Let’s spread some holiday cheer, Dragons! ✨🎄

Join us for the final 2 Days of Winter Cheer at Dogwood. Each day has its own festive theme—check them out below and get ready to dress up. Participation is optional for all staff and students, but we can’t wait to see your cheerful outfits light up our school! 🎁❄️

Congratulations to our Outstanding Employee Award Recipients at Dogwood ES

Congratulations to our Dogwood Elementary School's Outstanding Employee Award Recipients. Our staff members below will be submitted for the next round in the awards process! Thank you for the nominations!

 

• Outstanding Teacher: Jason Ericson (Physical Education Teacher )

• Outstanding Professional Employee: Elise Warden (Instructional Coach)

Free Math Tutoring at Reston Community Center

Reston Community Center is offering FREE math tutoring in 2025 at RCC Hunters Woods. Registration open on Dec 1st. Don't delay signing up your children. This program was sold out in the fall sessions. For each age group, there are two sessions, one that runs roughly January to March and a second one that runs April to May. You can sign up for one or both. 

Follow the links below to sign up!

Grades 3-5

Mondays, January 27-March 24, 4:30-6:00 PM

Mondays,  April 17-May 19, 4:30-6:00 PM

Grades 6-8

Tuesdays, January 28-March 25, 4:30-6:00 PM

Tuesdays, April 8- May 20, 4:30 PM- 6:00 PM

 

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

A big thank you to:

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

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

There will be no school from Monday, December 23 to Monday, January 6, 2024, for winter break. Classes will resume on Monday, January 6. 

Visit FCPS’ website for more attendance resources.

A Charlie Brown Christmas presented by South Lakes High School

South Lakes students will be having a performance on December 19th and 20th at 7:00 PM for families. When Charlie Brown complains about the overwhelming materialism that he sees amongst everyone during the Christmas season, Lucy suggests that he become director of the school Christmas pageant. Charlie Brown accepts, but it is a frustrating struggle. When an attempt to restore the proper spirit with a forlorn little fir Christmas tree fails, he needs Linus' help to learn the meaning of Christmas. Join us in this special performance. 

Winter Special Education and 504 Newsletter

The latest issue of the FCPS Special Education and 504 Newsletter is available online. Topics in this issue include:

• Community Resources for Families of Students with Disabilities
• Save the Date: 2025 Family Summit
• SEL Screener Results
• New Accessibility Resources
• Adapted Physical Education and Recreation Program
• Why Some Students with Disabilities Stay in FCPS Until Age 22
• VR Programs Supports Out-of-State Post Secondary Schools
• Executive Functioning Webinars
• Early Literacy Resources
• ESY and Assessment Webinar
• COVID-19 Compensatory Education: FCPS Service Delivery Options

Subscribe to the Special Education and 504 Newsletter. 

ST Math Family Night

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.

To learn more about Family Math Nights, check out this video. We hope that all schools will help spread the word and work collaboratively to help us reach our goal of logging on for three million minutes as an FCPS community. 

⛄Student and Family Resources

Fairfax County Public Schools has compiled a list of resources for students and families in case they need assistance while schools are closed for winter break. Please visit FCPS’ winter resources webpage for information on academic support, mental health support, and county resources related to food, clothing, housing, and other needs.

School’s Closed, Learning Can Continue! 

FCPS encourages students to take advantage of fun learning opportunities during winter break and snow days. Consider these winter activities to blend education and play for your students during winter break or weather-related school closures. 

Community Meetings on the Comprehensive Boundary Review

If you did not get a chance to attend one of the recent community meetings on the Comprehensive Boundary Review, please consider attending the final meeting in this first phase of the boundary review process. The Region 1 meeting will take place Wednesday, December 18, 6:30-8 p.m.,in the Madison High School cafeteria. Register today. If you are unable to participate, stay tuned for details about virtual Community Boundary Review Meetings coming early next year.

View FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage for more information. Sign up for FCPS’ School Boundary Review newsletter as well.

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• Course Selection for Middle and High School Students
• Join Our Teacher Team!
• Comprehensive Boundary Review Updates

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.  

 

Fairfax County Public Schools 2024-2025 Standard School Year Calendar

• December 23- January 3: Winter Break; No School For Students. The school building and office will be closed during this timeframe.
• January 6: School Reopens at 8:35am
• January 20: Dr. Martin Luther King's Birthday; school closed 

• January 30: Chuck E’ Cheese in Herndon 3:00-9:00 PM 

 

12300 Glade Drive Reston, VA 20191 | Main Office: 703-262-3100
Attendance: 703-262-3131 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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Dear Dragon Families,

It’s hard to believe that Winter Break is just a week away! We have a full schedule of concerts and festivities ahead, and we want to remind everyone that for all evening events, an adult must remain with each student. Please note that we do not have the same level of staffing for these events as we do during the school day, and it’s important to ensure that these events are safe and enjoyable for all participants.

We also held our first board meeting with your new PTA last night. If you haven’t already, please consider becoming a member, and keep an eye out for opportunities to partner, volunteer, or support our school in various ways. We’re thrilled to have the PTA back up and running, and we look forward to the continued partnership!

Lastly, if you need assistance providing your child with winter coats or other necessary items, please reach out to our family liaisons. They have supplies and resources available. You can contact Andy Sigle or Carmen Fonseca Londono directly at [email protected], or call the office at 703-262-3100.

Thank you for your continued support!

Kate Beckner

Proud Principal

Dogwood Winter Concert

Dogwood chorus presents our yearly winter concert being this evening, December 12th, 2024 at 5:30 PM in the Dogwood Gym. All chorus students should report to the gym by 5:10 PM wearing white tops, black bottoms, and black shoes. All chorus students must be accompanied by an adult who needs to remain at the school. Please join us for the glow walk after the concert. We hope to see you there!

Annual Dogwood Glow Walk

We hope all of our Dogwood Dragons are able to join us in our annual glow walk after the winter concert today, December 12th. There has been a change in time, the event will now take place from 6:00-7:30 PM. Hope to see you there. 

Level IV Referral Deadline

Window for Full-Time AAP Referrals Closes on December 15, 2024.

Parents/guardians of students in Grades 2-6 who would like their student to be considered for Full-Time advanced academic programs may submit the AAP Full-Time Referral Form to Lauren Williams, [email protected] no later than December 15, 2024. 

 

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 Lauren Williams, [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. 

Band & Strings Winter Concert Dogwood Winter Cheer

🎄✨ Let’s spread some holiday cheer, Dragons! ✨🎄

Join us for 5 Days of Winter Cheer at Dogwood from December 16th to December 20th! Each day has its own festive theme—check them out below and get ready to dress up. Participation is optional for all staff and students, but we can’t wait to see your cheerful outfits light up our school! 🎁❄️

A Charlie Brown Christmas presented by South Lakes High School

South Lakes students will be having a performance on December 19th and 20th at 7:00 PM for families. When Charlie Brown complains about the overwhelming materialism that he sees amongst everyone during the Christmas season, Lucy suggests that he become director of the school Christmas pageant. Charlie Brown accepts, but it is a frustrating struggle. When an attempt to restore the proper spirit with a forlorn little fir Christmas tree fails, he needs Linus' help to learn the meaning of Christmas. Join us in this special performance. 

🍲 Food Assistance and Resource Guide

Food insecurity impacts more than 96,000 Fairfax County residents. There are many resources available to support those who need food assistance. Learn how to help these families and the many resources available to support those who need food assistance on Fairfax County’s website or view the county’s Human Services Resource Guide.

📚 Bundle Up With Books Over Break

Fairfax County Public Library’s (FCPL) winter reading adventure has begun and will continue through Friday, January 31, 2025. Visit your local FCPL library branch or visit their website to register and get a sneak peek at the prizes being offered. Check out their Winter Reading Events webpage to learn about laser tag, movie nights, crafting sessions, Noon-Year Eve celebrations, and book discussions.

⛄ Get Outdoors for Winter Fun!

The Fairfax County Park Authority has rounded up its seasonal fun into a handy list of events happening across the county. 

Learn more about the Winter Wonderland and the Holiday Train at Burke Lake Park, Holiday on the Farm at Frying Pan Farm Park, and many more fun events.

Winter Break (Student Holiday)

As a reminder, winter break will be held Monday, December 23, to Friday, January 3. To help make sure you and your children have a restful break, we have asked that no homework be assigned during this time. Teachers may assign long-range assignments in the weeks ahead of the break, allowing students to practice time management skills, but no assignments will be due immediately following the break. We look forward to welcoming students back in the new year. Classes resume on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. See the complete school year calendar

 

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• Family Academy Orientation
• Literacy Resources
• Winter Programs and Activities

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.  

Fairfax County Public Schools 2024-2025 Standard School Year Calendar

• December 12: Chorus Concert 5:30 PM
• December 12: Dogwood Glow Walk 6:00- 7:30 PM 
• December 15: Full Time AAP Level IV Referral Deadline
• December 16: Band & Strings Winter Concert 6:00 PM Gym

• December 23- January 3: Winter Break; No School For Students. The school building and office will be closed during this timeframe.
• January 6: School Reopens at 8:35 AM 
• January 20: Dr. Martin Luther King's Birthday; school closed

12300 Glade Drive Reston, VA 20191 | Main Office: 703-262-3100
Attendance: 703-262-3131 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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Dear Dragon families, 

I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving break and found many reasons to feel grateful. We are always thankful for your support, partnership, and for sharing your amazing kids with us. The Dogwood staff truly loves what we do, and it’s an honor to serve you and your family.

As we enter the short but busy stretch between Thanksgiving and Winter Break, we’re excited to offer several activities to engage families in our school community. Please read about these events below and watch for more details in the Thursday folders. The stronger the partnership between parents and the school, the more successful our children will be. We hope to see you at these events and are always here to support you if needed.

With colder weather settling in, we want to remind you that outdoor recess will continue daily unless it’s raining or there’s a wind/cold advisory. Many students resist wearing their coats, but it’s important for their safety to be dressed warmly. If your child refuses to wear a coat, please encourage them to bring it along. If your family needs a coat, don’t hesitate to call the school—we have plenty to give away or can help connect you to resources.

Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to making this season bright together!

With appreciation, 

Kate Beckner

Proud Principal, Dogwood ES

PEACE Dragon Shoutout

We are excited to announce that Mrs. Hadeed and Mr. Tartt have been awarded the PEACE Dragon for the month of November, recognized by their colleagues for their outstanding dedication and unwavering commitment to our students and families.

Both Mrs. Hadeed and Mr. Tartt were nominated for their exceptional ability to connect with our students and build meaningful relationships. They go above and beyond to create a supportive, caring environment where every child feels valued. Their thoughtful approach, dedication to getting to know each student, and active involvement in the school community truly make a difference.

Please join us in congratulating Mrs. Hadeed and Mr. Tartt for this well-deserved recognition. Their compassion, hard work, and ability to foster positive connections with students and families embody the very essence of what makes our school such a special place!

3 Hour Early Release Day for grades K-6

Our next 3-hour early release day is Monday, December 9th, with dismissal at 12:30 PM. For families who need child care during this time, student supervision will be available. Teachers will be reaching out to confirm how your child has traveled home on previous early release days. It is essential that all families respond and maintain consistent plans. Ensuring student safety requires us to account for every child, so last-minute changes cannot be accommodated. Thank you for your cooperation!

Dogwood Winter Cheer 

🎄✨ Let’s spread some holiday cheer, Dragons! ✨🎄

Join us for 5 Days of Winter Cheer at Dogwood from December 16th to December 20th! Each day has its own festive theme—check them out below and get ready to dress up. Participation is optional for all staff and students, but we can’t wait to see your cheerful outfits light up our school! 🎅🎁❄️

Laptops for Learning

We're hosting our FINAL Learning with Laptops at Home information session for parents of 2nd–6th graders! If you'd like your child to bring their laptop to and from home, join us on Tuesday, December 17, from 4:00–4:20 PM in the Dogwood Library 

During this session, you’ll learn about our Family & Student Device Responsible Use Guidelines and sign the consent form. To attend, please complete THIS GOOGLE FORM. Remember to check into the office first when you arrive.

If you have any questions you can contact Ms. Kara Armstrong at [email protected] or (en español) Ms. Carmen Fonseca Londono at [email protected]. 

Reminder - Impact Aid Forms Due by Friday, December 6, 2024 

Parents, if you have not done so, please complete the Federal Impact Aid Survey form by Friday, December 6th.  The form can be completed in two ways—online in ParentVUE (preferred) or by paper copy (provided in last week’s Thursday folder).  Please follow the directions in each numbered section of the form and provide a signature and date at the bottom of the form.  We appreciate your timely completion of the Survey.  Please contact Susie Livingood, Office Assistant, at 703-262-3100 with any questions.  

Winter Break Assistance Request Form

Dogwood Elementary School is committed to ensuring its students have the resources and support they need throughout the school year to reach their full potential in school and within the community.  Through generous local corporate donors, Dogwood has received a limited number of gift cards to support families requiring assistance over the two-week winter break (Saturday, December 21, 2024, through Sunday, January 5, 2025). Should your family need some assistance, please complete the form that will be coming home in Thursday folders on December 5th. The form should be returned no later than 4 pm on Thursday, December 12 to Dogwood Elementary. 

If you are receiving assistance through another County agency, program, or community group, such as Cornerstones or Herndon-Reston FISH, please do not also request assistance through Dogwood.  Distribution of the gift cards will take place during the week of December 16.  Once we determine the number of donated gift cards available, a Dogwood staff member will contact families who have turned in a completed Assistance Request, in the order it was received, to arrange for pick-up of the gift cards.  

Should you have any questions about the form, please contact Andy Siegle [email protected] or Carmen Fonseca Londono [email protected] or please call 703-262-3100.

Dogwood Winter Concert

Dogwood chorus presents our yearly winter concert being held on Thursday, December 12th, 2024 at 5:30 PM in the Dogwood Gym. All chorus students should report to the gym by 5:10 PM wearing white tops, black bottoms, and black shoes. All chorus students must be accompanied by an adult who needs to remain at the school. Please join us for the glow walk after the concert. We hope to see you there!

Annual Dogwood Glow Walk

We hope all of our Dogwood Dragons are able to join us in our annual glow walk after the winter concert on Thursday, December 12th. There has been a change in time, the event will now take place from 6:00-7:30 PM. Hope to see you there. 

Level IV Referral Deadline

Window for Full-Time AAP Referrals Closes on December 15, 2024.

Parents/guardians of students in Grades 2-6 who would like their student to be considered for Full-Time advanced academic programs may submit the AAP Full-Time Referral Form to Lauren Williams, [email protected] no later than December 15, 2024. 

 

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 Lauren Williams, [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. 

Band & Strings Winter Concert Dogwood IB Highlight 

One component of the International Baccalaureate framework are the Learner Profile attributes.  The learner profile attributes represent who we want our students to be and are the IB mission statement in action.  Teachers connect the attributes to the curriculum, discuss their meaning, and provide opportunities for students to reflect on them.  

The learner profile attributes include: caring, reflective, open-minded, risk-taker, communicator, thinker, inquirer, knowledgeable, balanced, and principled.  

Literacy Resources for Families

Each Benchmark unit comes with helpful letters and activity calendars that explain what your child is learning and how you can support them at home with reading and writing skills. These resources are designed to keep you informed and involved in your child’s learning journey.

We are currently working on translating these letters into the top six languages spoken in our community. As these translations are ready, they will be available on Schoology, and we will make sure you can access them. Please be sure to check that the language preferences in our system (SIS) are updated, so we can send you these materials in the language you prefer.

Please refer to these important links in regards to Benchmark:

• FCPS ELA Pacing Calendars
• Benchmark Advance Family Letters & Activity Calendars Translations
• Literacy Resources for Families 
• Family-Facing Curriculum

Winter Break (Student Holiday)

As a reminder, winter break will be held Monday, December 23, to Friday, January 3. To help make sure you and your children have a restful break, we have asked that no homework be assigned during this time. Teachers may assign long-range assignments in the weeks ahead of the break, allowing students to practice time management skills, but no assignments will be due immediately following the break. We look forward to welcoming students back in the new year.Classes resume on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. See the complete school year calendar

❄️ Preparing for Winter Weather

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

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

Be sure to plan for the winter season. Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE, bookmark the FCPS website, and arrange for childcare if needed.

Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

We will monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories which may prevent children from being outside. Make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy their time outdoors. See the National Weather Service’s tips on staying safe during cold weather.

If you need assistance supplying your child with cold-weather clothing, please call our family liaisons at the school or Fairfax County's Coordinated Services Planning at 703-222-0880. Their multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health care.

 

Fairfax County Public Schools 2024-2025 Standard School Year Calendar

• December 4: Laptops for Learning 4:00-4:20 Library

• December 4: FLE Parent Preview Virtual Event FLE Zoom Meeting Link 5:30-6:00 PM

• December 4: Hour of Code 5:00-6:00 PM Dogwood Cafeteria 

• December 9: 3 Hour Early Release Monday Grades K-6 

• December 12: Chorus Concert 5:30 PM 

• December 12: Dogwood Glow Walk: new time 6:00-7:30 PM

• December 15: Full Time AAP Level IV Referral Deadline

• December 16: Band & Strings Winter Concert 6:00 PM Gym

• December 23- January 3: Winter Break; No School For Students. The school building and office will be closed during this timeframe.
• January 6: School Reopens at 8:35am
• January 20: Dr. Martin Luther King's Birthday; school closed 

12300 Glade Drive Reston, VA 20191 | Main Office: 703-262-3100
Attendance: 703-262-3131 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

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Dear Dragons, 

We wish you a wonderful and peaceful Thanksgiving break. Safe travels to any who are hitting the roads. May you all get the rest you deserve. We look forward to seeing you all again on Monday. 

Thank you for your continued partnership, 

Kate Beckner

Proud Principal

Thanksgiving

Schools and offices will be closed November 27-29. Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving! Classes will resume on Monday, December 2. Learn more about the first Thanksgiving. See the complete school year calendar.

Picture Retakes 

Fall pictures/proofs will be coming home this week. If you did not preorder pictures, all proof packages offer a second opportunity to order which will include an additional shipping cost. 

If you are unhappy with your child’s picture or if your child was absent, Dogwood’s Absentee/Retake Picture Day is Wednesday, December 4.

• If your child is taking retakes, bring their original picture package to exchange.
• Online orders can be placed up till 24 hours after picture day.

Dogwood Hour of Code

Hour of Code is back at Dogwood Elementary and we are inviting all Dogwood Families! The Hour of Code is a one-hour coding challenge to give students (and families) a fun first introduction to computer science. All forms were sent home in Thursday folders. All forms are to be returned by Monday, December 2nd. 

Meeting Location: Dogwood ES Cafeteria

Date: Wednesday, December 4th

Time: 5:00-6:00 PM

Check- in will begin @ 4:50-5:00 PM

If you have any questions, please contact Lauren Williams, Dogwood ES AART

Winter Break Assistance Request Form

Dogwood Elementary School is committed to ensuring its students have the resources and support they need throughout the school year to reach their full potential in school and within the community.  Through generous local corporate donors, Dogwood has received a limited number of gift cards to support families requiring assistance over the two-week winter break (Saturday, December 21, 2024, through Sunday, January 5, 2025). Should your family need some assistance, please complete the form that will be coming home in Thursday folders on December 5th. The form should be returned no later than 4 pm on Thursday, December 12 to Dogwood Elementary. 

If you are receiving assistance through another County agency, program, or community group, such as Cornerstones or Herndon-Reston FISH, please do not also request assistance through Dogwood.  Distribution of the gift cards will take place during the week of December 16.  Once we determine the number of donated gift cards available, a Dogwood staff member will contact families who have turned in a completed Assistance Request, in the order it was received, to arrange for pick-up of the gift cards.  

Should you have any questions about the form, please contact Andy Siegle [email protected] or Carmen Fonseca Londono [email protected] or please call 703-262-3100.

Reminder - Impact Aid Forms Due by Friday, December 6, 2024 

Parents, if you have not done so, please complete the Federal Impact Aid Survey form by Friday, December 6th.  The form can be completed in two ways—online in ParentVUE (preferred) or by paper copy (provided in last week’s Thursday folder).  Please follow the directions in each numbered section of the form and provide a signature and date at the bottom of the form.  We appreciate your timely completion of the Survey.  Please contact Susie Livingood, Office Assistant, at 703-262-3100 with any questions.  

Three Hour Early Release 

Our next early release is on Monday, December 9th, with dismissal at 12:35 PM. Classroom teachers will be sending home a sheet and TalkingPoints to confirm how your child will be getting home and at what time. We ask that no changes be made after Wednesday, December 4th. The following information will be shared with families, please let you child’s classroom teacher know as soon as possible. 

1. My child will leave at 12:35 PM. Please indicate how they will get home. If they are a bus rider, include the bus number.
2. My child will remain at school for regular dismissal at 3:35 PM. Please indicate how they will get home. If they are a bus rider, include the bus number.

Dogwood Winter Concert

Dogwood chorus presents our yearly winter concert being held on Thursday, December 12th, 2024 at 5:30 PM in the Dogwood Gym. All chorus students should report to the gym by 5:10 PM wearing white tops, black bottoms, and black shoes. All chorus students must be accompanied by an adult. Please join us for the glow walk after the concert. We hope to see you there!

Annual Dogwood Glow Walk Level IV Referral Deadline

Window for Full-Time AAP Referrals Closes on December 15, 2024.

Parents/guardians of students in Grades 2-6 who would like their student to be considered for Full-Time advanced academic programs may submit the AAP Full-Time Referral Form to Lauren Williams, [email protected] no later than December 15, 2024. 

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 Lauren Williams, [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. 

Winter Concert Winter Break (Student Holiday)

As a reminder, winter break will be held Monday, December 23, to Friday, January 3. To help make sure you and your children have a restful break, we have asked that no homework be assigned during this time. Teachers may assign long-range assignments in the weeks ahead of the break, allowing students to practice time management skills, but no assignments will be due immediately following the break. We look forward to welcoming students back in the new year.Classes resume on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. See the complete school year calendar

❄️ Preparing for Winter Weather

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

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

Be sure to plan for the winter season. Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE, bookmark the FCPS website, and arrange for childcare if needed.

Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

We will monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories which may prevent children from being outside. Make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy their time outdoors. See the National Weather Service’s tips on staying safe during cold weather.

If you need assistance supplying your child with cold-weather clothing, please Dogwood Elementary School 703-262-3100. The Dogwood staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health care.

Social and Emotional Learning Screener Results Coming Soon

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

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

Learn more about the screener on 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 us. 

Register for ParentVUELearn how to activate your ParentVUE account, so you can easily access your child’s results and other helpful information

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• Preparing for Winter Weather
• SEL Screener Results
• Varsity Girls Wrestling Is New Winter Sport

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.  

 

Fairfax County Public Schools 2024-2025 Standard School Year Calendar

• November 27- 29: Thanksgiving Holiday; school closed
• December 4: Picture Retake Day 
• December 4: FLE Parent Preview Virtual Event FLE Zoom Meeting Link
• December 4: Hour of Code 5:00-6:00 PM Dogwood Cafeteria 
• December 9: 3 Hour Early Release Monday Grades K-6 
• December 12: Dogwood Glow Walk
• December 12: Chorus Concert 5:30 PM Gym
• December 15: Full Time AAP Level IV Referral Deadline
• December 16: Band & Strings Winter Concert 6:00 PM Gym
• December 23- January 3: Winter Break; school closed 

 

12300 Glade Drive Reston, VA 20191 | Main Office: 703-262-3100
Attendance: 703-262-3131 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

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Dear Dragons,

A big congratulations to our Science Olympiad team for their outstanding performance this past weekend! Their hard work and dedication, guided by Ms. Ariel, truly shone as they showcased their incredible engineering skills. We are so proud of you!

Thank you to everyone who joined us for Learning Under the Stars on November 14th, an evening designed for our PreK–2nd graders and their families. We appreciate the many teachers who volunteered their time to demonstrate ways for parents to support learning in Language Arts and Math at home. Your partnership means so much to us!

We are also thrilled to announce the formation of our newly chartered Parent Teacher Association (PTA)! Please join us in congratulating the PTA board:

• Jonathan Barrera, President
• Britt Williams, Kristy DiOrio, and Jessica Molina, Co-Vice Presidents
• Nigel Walker and Geraldine Bundell, Co-Treasurers
• Nathan Whitmer, Secretary

The PTA offers a fantastic opportunity to stay connected and involved in our school community. We hope you will all become members! Congratulations to our new board, and thank you for your leadership!

Thank you for always partnering, 

Kate Beckner

Proud Principal

Thank you for all the families that attended our Learning Under the Stars Event last week.

Ms. Ariel led a group of students in our first Science Olympiad this past weekend. What an amazing experience for our students!

Dogwood ES Thanksgiving Luncheon-Thursday, November 21, 2024 

Please join us for our Family Thanksgiving Luncheon and enjoy lunch with your child this Thursday. Use the schedule below to find the time for your child’s lunch.  Dogwood students must follow their usual lunch schedule.  Parents/Guardians/Adults attending must purchase a lunch ticket at the event in the lobby at $5.00 each (pre-school siblings eat free).  Please pay with smaller bills or exact change.  

 Please RSVP by returning this form by November 15.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!  Volunteers are needed in 30-minute shifts to assist the cafeteria hosts with table clean-up.  When you arrive for your volunteer shift, please check in with the Volunteer Coordinator at the Ticket Sales table. All students will be receiving the RSVP and volunteer signup sheet in their Thursday folders tomorrow. Thank you!

Click to edit this placeholder text.

Laptops for Learning 

We’re hosting another Learning with Laptops at Home information afternoon session for parents of 2nd-6th graders who would like their child to bring their laptop to and from school. This session is on Thursday, November 21 from 4-4:30pm. During this session you will learn about, and sign consent to, our Family & Student Device Responsible Use Guidelines. If you plan to attend,fill out THIS GOOGLE FORM. Please remember to check into the office first when you arrive.

We’ll have one more afternoon session in December and that will be the last one for the rest of the school year.  If you have any questions you can contact Ms. Kara Armstrong at [email protected] or (en español) Ms. Carmen Fonseca Londono at [email protected].

A Thankful Spirit Week- Get Cozy with Gratitude! 🌟

Next week, we’re celebrating a Thankful Spirit Week! Let’s take a moment to appreciate the little things that bring us comfort and joy. From the cozy warmth of your favorite pajamas to the effortless style of your trusty Crocs, we’re thankful for everything that keeps us comfy.

Monday, Nov. 25- 🛌 Pajama Day – Show off your coziest sleepwear.Tuesday, Nov. 26- 👟 Crocs Day – Rock those comfy kicks with pride.

Let's spread some cozy vibes and gratitude together! 🍂💛

Thanksgiving

Schools and offices will be closed November 27-29. Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving! Classes will resume on Monday, December 2. Learn more about the first Thanksgiving. See the complete school year calendar.

Picture Retakes 

Fall pictures/proofs will be coming home this week. If you did not preorder pictures, all proof packages offer a second opportunity to order which will include an additional shipping cost. 

If you are unhappy with your child’s picture or if your child was absent, Dogwood’s Absentee/Retake Picture Day is Wednesday, December 4.

• If your child is taking retakes, bring their original picture package to exchange.
• Online orders can be placed up till 24 hours after picture day.

Three Hour Early Release 

Our next early release is on Monday, December 9th, with dismissal at 12:35 PM. Classroom teachers will be sending home a sheet and TalkingPoints to confirm how your child will be getting home and at what time. We ask that no changes be made after Wednesday, December 4th. The following information will be shared with families, please let you child’s classroom teacher know as soon as possible. 

1. My child will leave at 12:35 PM. Please indicate how they will get home. If they are a bus rider, include the bus number.
2. My child will remain at school for regular dismissal at 3:35 PM. Please indicate how they will get home. If they are a bus rider, include the bus number.

Annual Dogwood Glow Walk Impact Aid Forms in Thursday Folders

The Federal Impact Aid Program directly compensates local school districts, like Fairfax County Public Schools, that have been financially impacted by federal activities.  To ensure FCPS receives compensation due, all schools are required to have its families complete the annual Federal Impact Aid Survey form.  You can complete the form in two ways--online in ParentVUE or by paper copy.  The Survey will be available in ParentVUE through the end of January 2025.  Paper copies of the Survey will be coming home in this week’s Thursday folder and are due back to school by Friday, December 6, 2024. 

Please follow the directions in each numbered section of the form and provide a signature and date at the bottom of the form.  We appreciate your timely completion of the Survey.  Please contact Susie Livingood, Office Assistant, at 703-262-3100 with any questions.

Winter Concert Winter Break (Student Holiday)

As a reminder, winter break will be held Monday, December 23, to Friday, January 3. To help make sure you and your children have a restful break, we have asked that no homework be assigned during this time. Teachers may assign long-range assignments in the weeks ahead of the break, allowing students to practice time management skills, but no assignments will be due immediately following the break. We look forward to welcoming students back in the new year. Classes resume on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. See the complete school year calendar

 

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• Veterans Day Recognitions
• Resources on IEPs, Financial Aid, Literacy, and Community Leadership
• Teacher Hiring Event

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.  

 

Fairfax County Public Schools 2024-2025 Standard School Year Calendar

• November 21: Thanksgiving Luncheon (information above)

• November 21: Laptops for Learning 4:00-4:30 

• November 27- 29: Thanksgiving Holiday; school closed

• December 4: Picture Retake Day 

• December 4: FLE Parent Preview Night 4th-6th 5:30-6:00 Virtual Event

• December 9: 3 Hour Early Release Monday Grades K-6 

• December 12: Dogwood Glow Walk

• December 15: Full Time AAP Referral Deadline

• December 16: Band & Strings Winter Concert 6:00 PM Gym
• December 23- January 3: Winter Break; school closed

12300 Glade Drive Reston, VA 20191 | Main Office: 703-262-3100
Attendance: 703-262-3131 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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Dear Dogwood Families,

We hope you all enjoyed a restful three-day weekend! As we reflect on the past week, we are filled with pride and gratitude for the amazing students in our community. At our 1st Quarter Attendance Assembly, it was truly heartwarming to celebrate so many of our Dragons who had perfect attendance and made remarkable improvements. We had a wonderful morning gathering where our students shared their thoughts on the importance of being present every day and celebrating their peers. It’s such a joy to see how many of our students have had perfect attendance, or have made wonderful improvements towards coming to school. 

We also want to remind you of two important events happening this week. First, we are excited to invite you to our PTA Charter Meeting this evening at 6:00 PM in the library. Your voice matters, and we would love to see as many families as possible participate. Through the PTA, you’ll have the opportunity to influence your child’s educational experience and help shape the future of our school community. We truly believe that when we come together, we can accomplish amazing things for our students.

In addition, tomorrow evening we’ll be hosting our Annual Learning Under the Stars event from 5:00-6:30 PM. This special event is designed for families with students in Early Head Start through 2nd grade, and it’s a fantastic opportunity to discover fun math and literacy games that you can easily implement at home to support your child’s learning. And, of course, we’ll have pizza to share and enjoy together! We hope to see many of you there for an evening of learning, community, and connection.

Once again, thank you for your continued support and for partnering with us in making Dogwood such a wonderful place for all of our students to grow and thrive. 

Your Proud Principal,

Kate Beckner

Learning Under the Stars 

Families if you have a student in Early Head Start- 2nd grade please join us for Learning Under the Stars tomorrow, Thursday November 14th from 5-6:30. Come and enjoy a pizza snack with your child’s class as well as learn about some fun math and literacy games you can do at home to help support your child. There will also be booths from various community resources. Be on the look out for a flyer from your child’s teacher. We look forward to enjoying an evening of fun and learning together! If you have any questions regarding the event please contact Ms. Janelle Ali- [email protected].

Dogwood ES Thanksgiving Luncheon- Thursday, November 21, 2024 

Please join us for our Family Thanksgiving Luncheon and enjoy lunch with your child. Use the schedule below to find the time for your child’s lunch.  Dogwood students must follow their usual lunch schedule.  Parents/Guardians/Adults attending must purchase a lunch ticket at the event in the lobby at $5.00 each (pre-school siblings eat free).  Please pay with smaller bills or exact change.  

 Please RSVP by returning this form by November 15.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!  Volunteers are needed in 30-minute shifts to assist the cafeteria hosts with table clean-up.  When you arrive for your volunteer shift, please check in with the Volunteer Coordinator at the Ticket Sales table. All students will be receiving the RSVP and volunteer signup sheet in their Thursday folders tomorrow. Thank you!

Thanksgiving

Schools and offices will be closed November 27-29. Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving! Classes will resume on Monday, December 2. Learn more about the first Thanksgiving. See the complete school year calendar.

Annual Dogwood Glow Walk

 

📍 Boundary Review Community Meetings Start This Month

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

Please visit FCPS’ website for meeting dates, locations, and other information. Sign up for the

School Boundary Review newsletter for updates.

IEP Palooza and Community Resource Fair

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

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

Tutoring Resources for Families

Is your family looking for resources to help support your child’s academic success? FCPS’ Family Resource Center (FRC) maintains a list of district employees who hold a valid Virginia teaching credential and who are available to be hired as a tutor by parents. FRC maintains this list, but families are responsible for contacting and working directly with tutors. This list is not “approved” by FCPS and is only meant as a resource.

FCPS also partners 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, study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests.

✨ FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan Goal 3: Academic Growth and Excellence, reminds us of our commitment to supporting each and every student and helping them meet or exceed high academic standards.

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• Fall Testing Results
• Boundary Review Community Meetings
• Resources for Families

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.  

• November 13:  PTA Meeting Library 6:00 PM
• November 14: Learning Under the Stars 5:00-6:30 PM 
• November 21: Thanksgiving Luncheon
• November 27-29: Thanksgiving Holiday; school closed 
• December 12: Dogwood Glow Walk
• December 15: Full Time AAP Referral Deadline 

12300 Glade Drive Reston, VA 20191 | Main Office: 703-262-3100
Attendance: 703-262-3131 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

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Dear Dragons, 

I hope everyone had a wonderful break while our teachers used a few workdays to wrap up end-of-quarter grades and parent conferences.

Last week, our Trunk or Treat event was such a joy! It was great to come together as a community and enjoy all the smiles, fun costumes, and the "Thriller" dance by our Dogwood staff. Thank you to everyone who joined in and made it such a memorable evening.

This week, some of our teachers led Student-Led Conferences, where students proudly shared their learning with their families. As part of our commitment to being an IB PYP school, we look forward to continuing these conferences across Dogwood in the years to come.

Please save the date for our first PTA Charter Meeting on November 13th at 6 PM in the library. We would love for as many families as possible to participate. Through the PTA, you’ll have a chance to influence your child’s educational experience and time here at Dogwood.

Thank you for partnering with us. We love this community. 

Kate Beckner

Proud Principal

 

One of our Dogwood Dragons holding her student-led conference 

Our annual Dogwood Trunk or Treat

Monday, November 11, is a holiday and schools will be closed for students.

Thanksgiving

Schools and offices will be closed November 27-29. Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving! Classes will resume on Monday, December 2. Learn more about the first Thanksgiving. See the complete school year calendar.

Dogwood IB Highlight 

Action is at the heart of being an  International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) school!  Taking action supports the program’s overarching outcome of international-mindedness.  Students can take individual or collective action to better understand being internationally-minded and appreciate the benefits of working with others for a shared purpose.       

Throughout the month of October, our students took collective action by engaging in Socktober.  With your support, we were able to donate 800 pairs of socks to Embry Rucker Community Shelter.  We are so proud of how our students were able to take action for our community! 

Learning Under the Stars 

Families if you have a student in Early Head Start- 2nd grade please join us for Learning Under the Stars on Thursday November 14th from 5-6:30. Come and enjoy a pizza snack with your child’s class as well as learn about some fun math and literacy games you can do at home to help support your child. There will also be booths from various community resources. Be on the look out for a flyer from your child’s teacher. We look forward to enjoying an evening of fun and learning together! If you have any questions regarding the event please contact Ms. Janelle Ali- [email protected].

Outstanding Employee Awards

Nominations are now open for the 24-25 Outstanding Employee Awards! To submit a nomination for a Dogwood ES Outstanding Employee in one of the categories below, please complete the nomination through this: Google Form

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

You may nominate one or multiple employees at our school (one individual may only nominate one employee per category).

All that is required for a preliminary nomination is a paragraph or two about how this Outstanding Employee demonstrates exceptional work in the criteria for that category. The google form link has more information regarding the eligibility and criteria for each of these awards. 

The deadline to submit a nomination is Friday, November 8th at 4:00pm. Any questions you may have we ask that you connect with Ms. Viviana Calderon [email protected] 

Dogwood ES Thanksgiving Luncheon:Thursday, November 21, 2024 

Please join us for our Family Thanksgiving Luncheon and enjoy lunch with your child. Use the schedule below to find the time for your child’s lunch.  Dogwood students must follow their usual lunch schedule. 

Parents/Guardians/Adults attending must purchase a lunch ticket at the event in the lobby at $5.00 each (pre-school siblings eat free).  Please pay with smaller bills or exact change.  

 Please RSVP by returning the form being sent home in Thursday folders by November 15.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!  Volunteers are needed in 30-minute shifts to assist the cafeteria hosts with table clean-up.  When you arrive for your volunteer shift, please check in with the Volunteer Coordinator at the Ticket Sales table.  Thank you!

Kindergarten 11:25-11:55

1st Grade 10:55-11:25

2nd Grade 12:55-1:25

3rd Grade 11:45-12:15

4th Grade 11:05-11:35

5th Grade 12:25-12:55

6th Grade 12:55-1:25

The county deadline for submitting the AAP Full-Time family referral is Sunday, December 15th. 

This is a county set deadline, and late entries will not be accepted. Parents are encouraged to turn in their forms and supporting documents early to ensure that they are formatted appropriately for the screening portfolio. The AAP Full Time Parent Referral form can be found at the bottom of the AAP In FCPS website. All portfolios should be submitted to Lauren Williams at [email protected]. 

📖 Virtual Lexia Parent Information Night

Learn more about Lexia® Core5 and Lexia® PowerUp at a parent information night. Discover how FCPS uses Lexia in classrooms to support students’ literacy growth. Presenters will also share tips for improving your child’s literacy. Sessions will take place: 

• Tuesday, November 19, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

• Thursday, December 5, 6:30-7:30 p.m. 

Register in advance. For more information, contact Theresa Lieteau.

Other Ways to Support Your Child’s Learning Needs

You are important in your child’s education. The Family Academy keeps a list of classes, webinars, workshops, and programs offered by Fairfax County Public Schools to help you support your child's needs and learning at home. Browse Family Academy offerings. 

✨ Helping students read on level by the end of third grade is part of the FCPS Strategic Plan Goal 3: Academic Growth and Excellence. One of the strategic plan pillars is vibrant home and school partnerships. 

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• Calendar Reminders
• Resources for Families 
• Complete Impact Aid Survey

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.  

 

Fairfax County Public Schools 2024-2025 Standard School Year Calendar

November 11: All Schools & Offices Closed, Veteran’s Day 

November 13: PTA Meeting Library 6:00 PM

November 14: Learning Under the Stars 5:00-6:30 PM

November 21: Thanksgiving Luncheon  

November 27- 29: Thanksgiving Holiday; school closed

12300 Glade Drive Reston, VA 20191 | Main Office: 703-262-3100
Attendance: 703-262-3131 | Web | Twitter | Facebook