GovDelivery | Bush Hill Elementary School

Bush Hill Updates - Tuesday, February 18, 2025

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Celebrating 100 Days

Panther Staff getting in the spirit during Decades Day honoring the 100th day of school.

Panther PTA

Upcoming Events

⮚ February 19 - PTA General Body meeting (in-person and virtual)
⮚ February 25 - Science Night
⮚ February 28 - March 14, Read-A-Thon

❖ PTA Meeting
Mark your calendars and plan to join us for our first meeting of 2025 Wednesday February 19 6:30-7:30 in the Bush Hill Cafeteria. We would love to have you join in person, a virtual option will also be available.

❖ Spring Enrichment classes are coming soon!
Let Me Run, a running club for boys, is coming back to BHES this spring! If your 3rd-6th grade boy is interested in joining please see the registration link.

LMR BHES registration

We also need coaches to help with practices and preparing these boys with life lessons of encouragement culminating in a 5k the first weekend of June. If you have any questions email the PTA. See link if you want to register to be an assistant coach.

Coach registration

Read-A-Thon

March is Read Across America Month! Next week, your student(s) will bring home a packet in their Tuesday folder with instructions for our annual read-a-thon. It’s a fantastic event that really gets the kids excited about reading! The packet will include a link for registering online, as well as the option to donate via cash or check. Just like the Turkey Trot, we’ll have a friendly class competition. The class that reads the most pages and raises the most money will earn an ice cream party with the Principal! This year every Bush Hill student will receive a read-a-thon bookmark. We hope you’ll join in the fun and participate!

Staff Appreciation Week

This is a huge week for our school to show our appreciation to the entire staff and students. We need volunteers to be on the committee to schedule and come up with ideas for the events for the week. Please reach out to the PTA if interested!

The Great Virginia Math Contest

The Great Virginia Math Contest is a free, annual event themed around Virginia civics, statistics, and history that aims to inspire students in Virginia and foster their excitement for both math and civics. The contest welcomes all students whether they've participated in math contests before or whether this is their first time. The top 20% of students get recognized by name and by school name, and it would be great to see some Bush Hill students up there :)

Click the link below for additional information: https://www.virginia-math.org/math-contest.

Signups are open until Wednesday, February 26.

Spirit Wear

This week only, save $8 on all long sleeve tees! Don't miss this opportunity to save! Shop at https://1stplace.sale/97139

Upcoming Promotions:

2/17 - 2/23: $8 off all long sleeve tees

2/24 - 3/2: 25% off all bags

Family Liaison Corner Family Science Night

Please consider volunteering! Sign up here for Family Science Night

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0845ADA922A1FDC43-54669753-bush?utm_campaign+=&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery#/

Culture Community Connections Night

Thursday, March 6, 6:15-7:15 pm

VIEW OUR PROMO VIDEO FOR THIS EVENT.

Come celebrate all that makes Bush Hill such a unique and diverse school community. Choose a country, state or place that is special to you and your family.

Share that special place with our school community through its foods, music, dance, etc. Presenters/Participants should fill out this form by February 19th.

Middle School Transition Matters

Elementary Families Edition for Winter 2024-25 is now available! This edition is designed to foster curiosity, self-awareness, and career readiness in elementary students. It provides practical tips and activities to help families connect daily activities to real-life experiences.

Highlights from this edition include:

Incorporating Transition Planning: Ideas for weaving transition planning into family discussions and routines.
Building Self-Awareness: Strategies to help children discover their interests and skills through engaging activities and meaningful conversations.
Increasing Career Awareness: Introduce career concepts using videos and family outings.
Connecting Life Skills to the Real World: Practical ideas for teaching life skills at home that build connections to job and daily living skills.
Developing Pre-Vocational Skills: Activities that encourage task completion, routine-following, and collaborative efforts within the home.
Engaging Local Resources: Tips for utilizing Fairfax County resources, including community organizations, library programs, local events, and family volunteer opportunities.

Girls On The Run (GOTR)

Girls on the Run registration is still open! You can register here. Bush Hill will host practices on Tuesday mornings from 8:00-9:00 and Thursday afternoons from 4:00-5:00. We usually have a large team, and WE NEED MORE COACHES! This year, if we do not have enough coaches, we will have to drastically limit the size of our team and use the GOTR lottery system to select which girls will be able to participate on our team. If you sign up to coach, your girl will automatically have a spot on the team.

If you have questions or are interested in supporting as a coach, please contact Jessica Denniston ([email protected]) Kristen Phillips ([email protected]) or Alison Garner ([email protected]).

Thank you! 😊

GOTR Team

Your Child Not Feeling Well?

🤧 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.

Enjoy The Show! Tennis Anyone? From FCPS

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.

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. It is administered twice a year so students can share 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 they 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 without a ParentVUE account. For more information including SEL Screener questions and opt-out information, please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage.

✨A positive school climate and feeling safe, supported, included, and empowered, are part of Goal 2 of the 2023-30 Strategic Plan.

Families Invited to Review Potential Math Resources

FCPS will begin using new mathematics instructional resources for the 2025-26 (secondary) and 2026-27 (elementary) school years. A committee of community members, administrators, and teachers will meet to review materials submitted by vendors through a competitive request for proposals process. The community is also invited to review materials and provide comments.

Resources may be accessed on the FCPS Mathematics webpage starting Friday, February 14.

Hard copies of instructional materials will be accessible in person beginning Friday, February 14, as well. Members of the public can view them Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 8270 Willow Oaks Corporate Dr., Suite 100. In-person public review will not be available on Tuesday, February 25; Thursday, February 27; Tuesday, March 11; and Wednesday, March 12.

Feedback can be submitted through a digital form. All community feedback will be shared with the review committee and with the Fairfax County School Board members before the board votes in spring 2025.

Fairfax County Teen Job Fair Series

All students are invited to attend the 2025 Fairfax County Teen Job Fair Series and Career Building Workshops sponsored by Springfield District Supervisor Pat Herrity in collaboration with FCPS. The series kicks off Saturday, March 8, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., at West Springfield High School. It will also take place Saturday, March 15, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., at Chantilly High School.

At each fair, students will have the opportunity to engage with employers offering part-time, full-time, seasonal, and volunteer positions. They can also attend career-building workshops like Resume Building and Interviewing 101. Most positions at the fair are geared toward students over 16, but some opportunities for younger students may be available with parental consent. Please visit the Teen Job Fair webpage for more information and to register.

Quick Links

SIS ParentVUE

5927 Westchester St, Alexandria, VA 22310 | Main Office: 703-924-5600
Attendance: 703-924-5656 | Web | Twitter

Bush Hill Updates - Tuesday, February 11, 2025

GovDelivery1 week 3 days ago

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Fabulous February

Celebrating Black History Month

12th -- 100th Day of School Spirit Day

14th -- Valentine's Day

17th -- Presidents' Day HOLIDAY -- No School

25th -- Family Science Night @ 6 PM

National Heart Health Month

FCPS Heart Month Red is an initiative by the Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) to raise awareness of heart disease by wearing red during American Heart Month. Below are our Panther Staff Rockin' the RED!

100th Day Of School Panther PTA

❖ Taco Bamba Restaurant Night

Visit Taco Bamba Landmark (6259 Little River Turnpike, Alexandria, VA 22312)
between 9am - 9pm on Wednesday February 12th and Thursday February 13th. Mention Bush HIll Elementary or enter the code GIVE20 in the coupon area for online orders. 20% of sales will go to the PTA.

Upcoming Events
⮚ February 12 & 13 - Taco Bamba Restaurant Nights
⮚ February 19 - PTA General Body meeting (in-person and virtual)
⮚ February 25 - Science Night

❖ Bingo Night and Silent Auction
The PTA also thanks everyone who participated in the BHES annual Silent
Auction and Bingo Night. We hope you had a great time and we raised money to contribute to our student field trips!

❖ Spring Enrichment classes are coming soon!

❖ Let Me Run, a running club for boys, is coming back to BHES this spring! If your 3rd-6th grade boy is interested in joining please see the registration link. LMR BHES registration. We also need coaches to help with practices and preparing these boys with life lessons of encouragement culminating in a 5k the first weekend of June. If you have any questions email the PTA. Please reach out if you to register to be an assistant coach.

❖ Spirit Wear
This week only, save $10 on all Camelbak water bottles and $10 on all pajama pants! Don't miss this opportunity to save! Shop at https://1stplace.sale/97139
Upcoming Promotions:
● 2/10 - 2/16: 25% off water bottles
● 2/17 - 2/23: $8 off all long sleeve tees
● 2/24 - 3/2: 25% off all bags

❖ Stay up to date on all PTA events and opportunities!● Email us if questions, comments, or concerns: [email protected]

● Follow us on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/BushHillES/

Family Liaison Corner Family Science Night

Please consider volunteering! Sign up here for Family Science Night

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0845ADA922A1FDC43-54669753-bush

Health Room News

Student Illness Guidance: When to Stay Home

Fever ≥ 100.4ºF / 38ºC

Stay home until fever-free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications, like Tylenol.

Cough

Stay home if coughing is severe or uncontrolled, or your child has wheezing or difficulty breathing, until symptoms have improved.

Vomiting

Stay home until vomiting has stopped overnight and your child can keep food and liquids down in the morning.

Diarrhea

Stay home until:

· Diarrhea has improved

· Your child is not having accidents

· They have no more than 2 bowel movements above what is normal for them in a 24-hour period

Rash

Stay home if your child has skin sores that are draining fluid and cannot be covered by clothing or a bandage. Stay home until sores begin to crust over. Recommend your child is seen by a healthcare provider.

Pink eye (conjunctivitis)

Stay home if your child has yellow or green eye discharge and see a healthcare provider. If they have bacterial conjunctivitis, stay home while symptomatic or until your child has been on antibiotics for at least 24 hours.

Enjoy The Show! Fairfax County Office For Children From FCPS

FCPS PreK and Early Head Start programs provide a quality preschool experience with comprehensive services at no cost to qualifying families who reside in Fairfax County. Your family may qualify for PreK or Early Head Start if you:

have a child who will be age 3 or 4 by September 30,
receive free or reduced-price school meals, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Social Security Income, and/or homeless per definition of the McKinney Vento Act, or
receive resources such as from a shelter and/or the FCPS homeless liaison office.

Though families may qualify, spaces are limited and selection is based on need, not “first come, first serve”, with PreK priority given to 4 year olds. The application process begins January 1st for the upcoming school year. However it is important for all families to apply as soon as possible.

Early Head Start is for children 0-2 years of age and pregnant women who live in the Reston, Herndon and Springfield areas.

Note: The application eligibility, selection and enrollment process is managed centrally at the Office of Early Childhood Curriculum and Grant Management located in Falls Church; not at schools. If you a have question about the application process or status please call the main English Line: 703-208-7900 or Spanish Line: 703-208-7901.

The FCPS CARES Program allows parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees who go above and beyond to help others and show they care about their students, colleagues, and the community. We invite you to submit a story below to acknowledge the great work of an FCPS employee or group of employees who should receive FCPS CARES recognition.

Please take note of the following before submitting an FCPS CARES:

Submissions are entered through StaffConnect, the HR portal for all employee actions. Select “I want to submit a(n)” and scroll to “FCPS Cares Submission.” The report will use the word “incident,” which is a generic term for all submissions, regardless of type.
A notification email, with the submission text included, will be sent to the recipient(s) and copied to the recipient's supervisor(s).
All submissions will be posted to our FCPS CARES webpage and shared via other FCPS news outlets.
Submissions containing personal or sensitive information may be edited to protect individuals' privacy.
Feel free to compose your submission using a text editor such as Microsoft Word before copying and pasting it in the StaffConnect text box.

For questions, please email [email protected].

🗺️ 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 want to 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 Kickoff 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.

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 health care 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 health care provider, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or view other Immunization Resources. Be wise and immunize!

Quick Links

SIS ParentVUE

5927 Westchester St, Alexandria, VA 22310 | Main Office: 703-924-5600
Attendance: 703-924-5656 | Web | Twitter

Bush Hill Updates - Tuesday, February 4, 2025

GovDelivery2 weeks 3 days ago

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Fabulous February

Celebrating Black History Month

7th -- BINGO Night (Doors open at 6 PM)

10th -- Bush Hill Elementary Early Release - 12:55 PM Dismissal

12th -- Work Out Wednesday

12th -- 100th Day of School Spirit Day

14th -- Valentine's Day

17th -- Presidents' Day HOLIDAY -- No School

25th -- Family Science Night @ 6 PM

Parent Liaison Corner PTA

Upcoming Events
⮚ February 7 - Bingo Night
⮚ February 12 - Taco Bamba Restaurant Night

❖ Poverty in America Awareness Month
The PTA would like to send a heartfelt thank you to everyone who donated items for our community during Poverty Awareness Month.

❖ Bingo Night THIS FRIDAY, February 7
★ Silent Auction closes THURSDAY February 6 at midnight! BID NOW so you don’t miss out on awesome items like restaurant gift cards, spring enrichment and teacher parties!
★ Pre-order Bingo cards and food for Bingo Night by Thursday at 5:00 p.m.:
https://app.givebacks.gives/bhauction2025/Event/Details
★ Bingo Night doors open 6:00 pm on Friday, February 7 Bingo starts promptly at 6:30pm. Avoid long lines by coming early! Grab some food (pizza, popcorn & water), check out our spirit wear, and bid on exclusive live auction items (themed baskets, teacher lunches & more)!!
★ We need lots of volunteers to help to make this fun night successful! Bush Hill alum are welcome to participate and get volunteer hours!
Sign up here: Bingo Night Volunteer Signup

❖ Taco Bamba Restaurant Night

Visit Taco Bamba Landmark (6259 Little River Turnpike, Alexandria, VA 22312)
between 9am - 9pm on Wednesday February 12th. Mention Bush Hill Elementary or enter the code GIVE20 in the coupon area for online orders. 20% of sales will go to the PTA.

Celebrating 100 Days Of School Happy Valentine's Day

Students are welcome to exchange Valentine's cards for classmates on Friday, February 14th. Please make sure that there is a card for every child in the class. Contact your child's teacher to get a list of student names so you can be sure to include everyone. We do not have Valentine's Day parties, so please refrain from sending in cupcakes and other large treats. If you have questions, please reach out to your child's teacher for more information.

Building A Legacy - One Brick At A Time

A Bush Hill Fundraiser

Consider making your student or loved one’s legacy permanent at Bush Hill Elementary School by purchasing a brick to be placed on our brick path between Door 3 and Door 5. The bricks will be placed there among the other legacy bricks. We have two brick options to choose from. Bricks purchased now will be laid by Spring of 2025. All profits raised will be used to support student events, materials, and supplies for Bush Hill ES. Please click on the link below and be sure to fill out the entire order form in MySchoolBucks.

Link: MySchoolBucks - Product Detail

Family Science Night

Please consider volunteering! Sign up here for Family Science Night

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0845ADA922A1FDC43-45531146-family#/

Bush Hill Spirit Wear

Shop at https://1stplace.sale/97139

Order Your Bush Hill Yearbook Kindergarten SY 25-26 Registration Is Now Open Kindergarten Registration: It’s as Easy as 1-2-3…

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

Determine eligibility.
Identify your local school.
Gather documents.
Fill out forms.
Schedule an appointment with our Registrar, Ms. DePalma @ (703) 924-5600

After your in person appointment at Bush Hill, your child will be ready for orientation and any other introductory events each school may host. Read more about the registration process.

For questions regarding Registration, please contact Ms. DePalma @ 703-924-5600 or email [email protected]

💻 Try Online Registration

Online registration for the 2025-26 school year is open for parents/caregivers who would like to enroll their child in FCPS for kindergarten through 12th grade. Learn how to begin the online registration process.

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

Girls On The Run (GOTR)

Girls on the Run registration is now open! You can register here. Bush Hill will host practices on Tuesday mornings from 8:00-9:00 and Thursday afternoons from 4:00-5:00. We usually have a large team, and WE NEED MORE COACHES! This year, if we do not have enough coaches, we will have to drastically limit the size of our team and use the GOTR lottery system to select which girls will be able to participate on our team. If you sign up to coach, your girl will automatically have a spot on the team.

If you have questions or are interested in supporting as a coach, please contact Jessica Denniston ([email protected]) Kristen Phillips ([email protected]) or Alison Garner ([email protected]).

Thank you! 😊

GOTR Team

Is Your Child Not Feeling Well?

To keep your family safe, the Health Department recommends the following:

Monitor your child and keep them home if sick. Watch for signs of illness in your child. If your child has a fever or severe cough, keep them home. They should stay home, except for medical visits, until they are fever-free for at least 24 hours without medication, feel better overall, and are able to participate in school activities. After they return to school, parents may choose to have them wear a mask at school and during other indoor activities for 5 days after symptoms improve. This will further reduce the chance that they may spread illness to someone else.
Get your child tested. Consider getting your child tested for respiratory illness if they are sick. You can get COVID-19 tests to use at home, and testing for flu can be done by your healthcare provider.
Teach your child to wash their hands for 20 seconds with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. Be sure to set a good example by doing this yourself. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer.
Cover coughs and sneezes. Have your child use a tissue to cover their mouth and nose when they cough and sneeze. Throw tissues in the trash after use. If they do not have a tissue, they should cover coughs and sneezes with their upper sleeve.
Remind your child to avoid touching their face, like eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.
Try to avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Improve your air quality at home. If it’s not too cold, open doors and windows or move activities outside to get fresh air.
Get vaccinated. Vaccines are highly recommended to protect your child from COVID-19 and the flu. Updated vaccines available each fall are needed for the best protection to prevent serious illness.
Talk to a healthcare provider about treatment. Talk to your child’s healthcare provider if you have questions or concerns, especially if they have a chronic illness or take long-term medications.

Please follow these recommendations to help keep your child healthy and to prevent others from getting sick. If you have questions, please contact your healthcare provider or the School Public Health Nurse, Aishah Potts at 703-924-5610 or [email protected] .

Fairfax County School Board

The Fairfax County School Board welcomes public comment on the FY 2026 Proposed Budget at a Public Hearing. This public hearing is scheduled to take place at the Luther Jackson Middle School Auditorium at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 4, 2025.

The Speaker's List opened at 6:00 a.m. on Friday, January 24, 2025 and is now open through 6:00 p.m. on Monday, February 3, 2025. The Fairfax County School Board Office will notify speakers (via email) the morning of February 4, 2025.

Register to Speak at the Budget Public Hearing (in-person or live via Zoom)
FY 2026 Proposed Budget
Information on Speaking at School Board Meetings
Watch School Board meetings and public hearings.

Any questions, written statements, and copies of testimony may be submitted to [email protected].

FY 2026 Proposed Budget Timeline

Division Superintendent Dr. Michelle C. Reid presented the FY 2026 Proposed Budget to the School Board at the January 23, 2025 regular meeting.
The School Board will hold work sessions on the proposed budget on February 4, 2025 and February 18, 2025.
The School Board will hold a public hearing on February 4, 2025.
The School Board will take action to approve the Advertised Budget at the February 20, 2025 regular meeting.

Upcoming Regular School Board Meeting

The next regular board meeting will be held Thursday, February 6, 2025, at Luther Jackson Middle School, at 7:00 p.m.

Coming Soon ......

Culture * Community * Connections Night

Thursday, March 6, 6:15-7:15 pm

VIEW OUR PROMO VIDEO FOR THIS EVENT.

Come celebrate all that makes Bush Hill such a unique and diverse school community. Choose a country, state or place that is special to you and your family.

Share that special place with our school community through its foods, music, dance, etc. Presenters/Participants should fill out this form by February 13.

From FCPS 🖥️ Free Webinars and Events for Families

In February, the Family Resource Center (FRC) will host the following webinars and events for families:

Upcoming Family Academy Events

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

✨ Fostering trusting partnerships with families is included in Pillar B of the FCPS Strategic Plan: Vibrant Home, School, and Community Partnerships.

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

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

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

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

✨ Ensuring every student experiences an equitable school community is part of the FCPS Strategic Plan Goal 2.

Quick Links

SIS ParentVUE

5927 Westchester St, Alexandria, VA 22310 | Main Office: 703-924-5600
Attendance: 703-924-5656 | Web | Twitter

Bush Hill Updates - Tuesday, January 28, 2025

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No School For Students Tomorrow Quarter End/Lunar New Year/Teacher Work Day

Tuesday, January 28, is the last day of the second quarter. It is a full school day.

Wednesday, January 29, is Lunar New Year and a teacher workday. There will be no school for students.

See the complete school year calendar and employee calendar.

SIS ParentVUE End-of-Quarter Closure

The Gradebook in SIS ParentVUE and StudentVUE will be closed for the end of the quarter from Tuesday, January 28, 4 p.m. to Tuesday, February 4, 6 a.m.

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

Rising Middle School Transition

The Middle School Transition Matters Newsletter: Elementary Families Edition for Winter 2024-25 is now available! This edition is designed to foster curiosity, self-awareness, and career readiness in elementary students. It provides practical tips and activities to help families connect daily activities to real-life experiences.

Highlights from this edition include:

Incorporating Transition Planning: Ideas for weaving transition planning into family discussions and routines.
Building Self-Awareness: Strategies to help children discover their interests and skills through engaging activities and meaningful conversations.
Increasing Career Awareness: Introduce career concepts using videos and family outings.
Connecting Life Skills to the Real World: Practical ideas for teaching life skills at home that build connections to job and daily living skills.
Developing Pre-Vocational Skills: Activities that encourage task completion, routine-following, and collaborative efforts within the home.
Engaging Local Resources: Tips for utilizing Fairfax County resources, including community organizations, library programs, local events, and family volunteer opportunities.

7th Grade Immunization Requirements

One dose of Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, acellular pertussis) given at age 7 or older.
One dose of Meningococcal Vaccine (MenACWY, Menactra, or Menveo) given at age 10 or older.
Two doses of HPV (Human Papillomavirus) vaccine. The first dose shall be administered before the child enters the 7th grade. After reviewing educational materials approved by the Board of Health, the parent or guardian, at the parents or guardians’ sole discretion, may elect for the child not to receive the HPV vaccine. FCPS does not require opt-out documentation for the HPV vaccine.

Panther PTA

Upcoming Events

Poverty Awareness Month, now - January 31

January 31 - Silent Auction opens online

February 7 - Bingo Night

February 12 - Taco Bamba Restaurant Night

Poverty in America Awareness Month

Join the Bush Hill Food Drive this January during Poverty in America Awareness Month to make a meaningful difference in our community! Together, we can combat food insecurity by providing essential support to local families in need. Your contributions—whether non-perishable food items or toiletries —will go directly to helping neighbors facing challenging times. Let’s come together as a community to show compassion, raise awareness, and take action.

We are still collecting items through Friday!

A simple donation of gently used clothing, non-perishable food, or household items can provide crucial support to someone in need. Your generosity can be the difference between despair and hope for someone facing hardship. By donating today, you’re not just giving items—you’re offering dignity, compassion, and the promise of a better tomorrow. Every contribution matters, no matter how big or small.

There are two donation bins - one station at the front entrance to Bush Hill, the other station is near the SACC entrance. All Donations will go to the Capital Area Food Bank and Alexandria Community Shelter.

Congratulations to Avery B for advancing in the 2024-2025 PTA Reflections Art Contest!

Avery's Art Expression, Girl with Imperfections, will now compete at the Virginia State level. Your creativity, talent, and dedication to the arts have truly shined. We are incredibly proud of your accomplishment and cannot wait to see how your journey continues.

Additionally, we recognize all students who submitted entries to the Reflections Art Contest.

-Talia T

-Trevor R

-Ariana T

-Avilea W

-Kennedy H

-Ryma P

-Emma H

-Lucia S

-Delaney W

-Anjali S

-Kiera G

-Joury G

Keep inspiring us with your amazing and courageous artwork—your passion and talent are making a difference!

STEM enrichment program starts this week...last chance to register!

Our last enrichment program starts this week with STEM exCEL, Tuesday and Friday mornings. See the flyer below and register asap!!

BSTEM Introduction to Game Design (starts 1/31)

Fridays 7:50 AM - 8:50 AM

Grade levels: 1-6

Price: $160

Silent Auction & Bingo Night

The online portion of the Silent Auction starts THIS Friday, January 31 and goes through Thursday, February 6 at midnight! Browse and bid on online items and pre-order Bingo cards and food for Bingo Night here: http://app.givebacks.gives/bhauction2025

Bingo Night doors open 6:00 pm on Friday, February 7. Bingo starts promptly at 6:30pm. Avoid long lines by coming early! Grab some food (pizza, popcorn & water), check out our spirit wear, and bid on exclusive live auction items (themed baskets, teacher lunches & more)!

We are looking for volunteers to help make Bingo Night a great night!

See Signup Genius link: Bingo Night Volunteer Signup

Please see sign up links below, if you are willing to donate send the item to their classroom or the front office by January 31.

Pre-K: Beach Day

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BA4AD2DA0FCC07-54278875-prek#/

K: Movie Night

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BA4AD2DA0FCC07-54278581-kindergarten#/

1st: Candy & Sweets

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BA4AD2DA0FCC07-54278684-1stgrade#

2nd: Baking

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BA4AD2DA0FCC07-54278723-2ndgrade#/

3rd: Warm & Cozy

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BA4AD2DA0FCC07-54278758-3rdgrade#/

4th: Outdoors

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BA4AD2DA0FCC07-54278791-4thgrade#/

5th: Game Night

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BA4AD2DA0FCC07-54278814-5thgrade#/

6th: Spa at Home https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BA4AD2DA0FCC07-54278858-6thgrade#/

Minted

20% off all Valentine’s Day orders plus FREE shipping using your unique code FUNDRAISEBUSHHILL. Hurry—this offer is available until January 28!

Bush Hill Spirit Wear

Shop at https://1stplace.sale/97139

Family Liaison Corner Celebrating 100 Days Of School Family Science Night

Please consider volunteering! Sign up here for Family Science Night

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0845ADA922A1FDC43-54669753-bush

From FCPS Virginia’s Student Assessment Summary for Families

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

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

The report is intended to help families reflect on how their child performed across all tested subjects over the years. Our schools and staff are committed to working with families to help every student reach their highest potential. Learn more about student assessments in FCPS on our webpage or contact your child’s school.

Understand Executive Function Milestones, Challenges, & Implement Effective Strategies at Home for Children in Upper Elementary (3-6) February 7, 2025 10 - 11:30 a.m.

Discover how to support your child’s executive function skills in our webinar series. We will present information on understanding your child’s developmental milestones, recognizing signs of executive dysfunction, and implementing effective strategies to support their learning at home and in school.

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Comprendiendo el Trama en su Hijo

(presented in Spanish: Understanding Trauma in Your Child)

February 14, 2025 10 - 11:30 a.m.

Aprendemos sobre el Trauma en este semanario de web de 3 partes y sobre los diferentes tipos de trauma, las respuestas naturales y los efectos que esto puede tener tanto en los niños como en los padres y estrategias que los padres pueden usar para apoyar a sus hijos.

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FCPS Risk Prevention Series: Part 1 Risk Prevention February 18, 2025 10 - 11:30 a.m.

Review how FCPS Risk Prevention processes and procedures support a safe and healthy school community. Learn about risks assessments when a child expresses threats of harm to self and threats of harm to others and/or demonstrates concerning behaviors. Families and caretakers will be provided practical information and strategies to support building factors for those in their care.

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Nurturing Adolescent Growth: Part 4 - Supporting Mental Health: Recognizing and Addressing Anxiety and Depression in Teens February 21, 2025 10 - 11:30 a.m.

Join us for Part 4 of our Teen Series with Dr. Unnatti Jain, a Certified Behavior Change Expert / TEDx speaker / Author / Keynote speaker who studies behavioral patterns. Dr. Jain will help caretakers and families be able to identify mental health symptoms, enhance communication skills, and explore professional and self-care strategies.

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SibShops February 22, 2025 10 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

For children grades 2-6 enrolled in Fairfax County Public Schools. An opportunity to meet other siblings in a relaxed setting. Celebrate the many contributions made by brothers and sisters of children with special needs. Share sibling experiences, while receiving peer support. Enjoy games and have fun!

Sibshops: Located at Sully Community Center, 13800 Wall Road Herndon, Virginia

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FCPS Risk Prevention Series: Suicide Prevention – Supporting Your Child February 25, 2025 10 - 11:30 a.m.

This session will equip caregivers with the knowledge and skills to identify signs of suicidal ideation in their children and respond effectively to these crises. Caregivers will learn how to respond if they learn or observe that their child may be experiencing thoughts of suicide. This session will provide practical tools and strategies to help caregivers navigate these challenging situations with compassion and confidence.

Never Miss a Show! Subscribe to the Fine and Performing Arts Calendar

Take a look at the Fine and Performing Arts calendar on FCPS’ website for individual listings of many middle and high school theater events. You may also subscribe to the calendar for notifications of upcoming performances.

Spring Sports Bush Hill Yearbook Quick Links

SIS ParentVUE

5927 Westchester St, Alexandria, VA 22310 | Main Office: 703-924-5600
Attendance: 703-924-5656 | Web | Twitter

Bush Hill Updates - Tuesday, January 21, 2025

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Join Us Tonight For Our Strings Concert

Student will arrive at 6:30 PM and the Concert will start promptly at 7:00 PM

Panther PTA

Upcoming Events

Poverty Awareness Month, now - January 31
January 31 - Silent Auction opens online
February 7 - Bingo Night

Poverty in America Awareness Month

Some Winter Enrichment classes slots still open!

Some BHES Winter Enrichment programs have already started or are starting this week! Register Now! Check out the flyers and individual links below or head to the main registration page linked below.

BSTEM Introduction to Game Design (starts 1/31)

Fridays 7:50 AM - 8:50 AM (Grade levels: 1-6)

Price: $160

Register for Game Design

BSTEM 3D Printing (starts 1/28)

Tuesdays 7:50 AM - 8:50 AM (Grade levels: 1-6)

Price: $160

Register for 3D Printing

Silent Auction & Bingo Night Baskets and Volunteers

We are looking for volunteers to help make Bingo Night a great night!

See Signup Genius link below.

Bingo Night Volunteer Signup

We're asking each grade to donate a themed basket (with new items) for our upcoming Silent Auction. These baskets will be auctioned off in person to help raise money for school improvements, extracurricular activities, school events, and to help fund field trips.

Please see sign up links below, if you are willing to donate send the item to their classroom or the front office by January 31.

Pre-K: Beach Day

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BA4AD2DA0FCC07-54278875-prek#/

K: Movie Night

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BA4AD2DA0FCC07-54278581-kindergarten#/

1st: Candy & Sweets

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BA4AD2DA0FCC07-54278684-1stgrade#

2nd: Baking

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BA4AD2DA0FCC07-54278723-2ndgrade#/

3rd: Warm & Cozy

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BA4AD2DA0FCC07-54278758-3rdgrade#/

4th: Outdoors

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BA4AD2DA0FCC07-54278791-4thgrade#/

5th: Game Night

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BA4AD2DA0FCC07-54278814-5thgrade#/

6th: Spa at Home https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BA4AD2DA0FCC07-54278858-6thgrade#/

Minted

20% off all Valentine’s Day orders plus FREE shipping using your unique code FUNDRAISEBUSHHILL. Hurry—this offer is available until January 28!

Spirit Wear

This week only, save $10 on all 1/4 zips! Shop at https://1stplace.sale/97139

Family Liaison Corner No School Wednesday, January 29th Quarter End/Lunar New Year/Teacher Work Day

Tuesday, January 28, is the last day of the second quarter. It is a full school day.

Wednesday, January 29, is Lunar New Year and a teacher workday. There will be no school for students.

See the complete school year calendar and employee calendar.

SIS ParentVUE End-of-Quarter Closure

The Gradebook in SIS ParentVUE and StudentVUE will be closed for the end of the quarter from Tuesday, January 28, 4 p.m. to Tuesday, February 4, 6 a.m.

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

7th Grade Immunization Requirement

The Code of Virginia, (https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title22.1/chapter14/section22.1-271.2/), requires all students to be immunized against certain communicable diseases. All students entering 7th grade are required to receive one dose of each of the following immunizations prior to the beginning of school: Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis booster (Tdap), Meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY) and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.

To meet the Tdap requirement, the vaccination must be administered at age 7 or older.
To meet the MenACWY requirement, the vaccination must be administered at age 10 or older.
As a parent/guardian, you may decide that your child not receive the HPV vaccination. The school does not require documentation if a parent/guardian elects for their student not to receive the HPV vaccination.

ACTION REQUIRED: Please provide one of the following immunization documents to the Student Information Assistant (SIA) or Registrar at your child’s school as soon as possible:

An immunization record showing that your child has received at least one dose of each of the required immunizations listed above. Families can request immunization records free of charge through the Virginia Immunization Information System (VIIS), a statewide registry system. If your child was immunized outside Virginia, you can get records from those states’ systems, (cdc.gov/iis/contacts-locate-records/?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/programs/iis/contacts-locate-records.html).
Submit your child’s immunization record through ParentVUE using the Online Verification/Update (OVU) Packet, (fcps.edu/family-resources/family-communication-resources/sis-parentvue-online-verification-and-update-packet)
A note from a healthcare provider stating the date the vaccination(s) was given.
A healthcare provider’s written statement of a permanent or temporary medical exemption.
A notarized Commonwealth of Virginia, Certificate of Religious Exemption, (fcps.edu/form/religious-exemption-form).

Immunizations are available from your child’s healthcare provider, the Fairfax County Health Department, or other community resources. Visit our FCPS Immunization Resources webpage, (https://www.fcps.edu/immunization-resources), for more information.

Please consider getting your child’s immunizations early. Summer is a busy time for families and healthcare providers. As long as your child meets the age requirements listed above, they can be immunized at any time.

Please contact Ms. DePalma, SIA/Registrar at [email protected] or (703) 924-5600 if you have any questions.

From FCPS 🗺️ Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration

Registration for the countywide lottery for Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program is open through Thursday, March 6, at 4 p.m. 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 2025-26 school year.

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

Interested parents/caregivers may want to 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.

📱 Student Rights and Responsibilities and Cell Phone Policy Survey Coming Soon

On Tuesday, January 21, all FCPS parents/caregivers and middle and high school students, and FCPS staff will be emailed invitations to participate in a survey that seeks to understand community support for proposed options relating to FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R), cell phone policy, and cell phone storage options.

The survey will be available until Monday, February 3. It will also be open to FCPS staff. Please take a few moments to share your feedback and help us make informed, inclusive decisions for all our schools.

🧥 Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

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

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

If you need assistance getting cold-weather clothing for your family, please contact your school’s family liaison. 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.

Quick Links

SIS ParentVUE

5927 Westchester St, Alexandria, VA 22310 | Main Office: 703-924-5600
Attendance: 703-924-5656 | Web | Twitter

Bush Hill Updates - Tuesday, January 14, 2025

GovDelivery1 month 1 week ago

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Celebrating Inclusive Schools Week Panther PTA

Upcoming Events

Poverty Awareness Month, now - January 31
January 31 - Silent Auction opens online
February 7 - Bingo Night

Poverty in America Awareness Month

All Donations will go to the Capital Area Food Bank and Alexandria Community Shelter.

Some Winter Enrichment classes start this week – Sign up Today!

Some BHES Winter Enrichment programs start next week! It’s not too late to sign up and slots are still open! Register Now! Check out the flyers and individual links below or head to the main registration page linked below.

Winter Enrichment Programs Full List

Please see sign up links below, if you are willing to donate send the item to their classroom or the front office by January 31.

Pre-K: Beach Day

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BA4AD2DA0FCC07-54278875-prek#/

K: Movie Night

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BA4AD2DA0FCC07-54278581-kindergarten#/

1st: Candy & Sweets

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BA4AD2DA0FCC07-54278684-1stgrade#

2nd: Baking

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BA4AD2DA0FCC07-54278723-2ndgrade#/

3rd: Warm & Cozy

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BA4AD2DA0FCC07-54278758-3rdgrade#/

4th: Outdoors

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BA4AD2DA0FCC07-54278791-4thgrade#/

5th: Game Night

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BA4AD2DA0FCC07-54278814-5thgrade#/

6th: Spa at Home

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BA4AD2DA0FCC07-54278858-6thgrade#/

Dual Language Immersion Lottery Now Open

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 2025-26 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. Thank you for spreading the word to friends and neighbors who may be interested in registering their rising kindergarten student. As a reminder, families do not have to live inside a school's boundary to participate in an immersion program as it is determined by lottery.

Winter iReady Dates - Grades 3-6

Mark Your Calendars.

All students in grades 3-6 will take their winter iReady universal screener assessments on the following dates:

Wednesday January 22nd: Reading
Thursday January 30th: Math

Please do your best to ensure that your student attends school on both days to participate in these assessments. If you know in advance that your student will be absent, please notify your child’s teacher. Do your best to ensure that your student gets a good night’s rest and eats a healthy, filling breakfast in the morning on these dates! Thank you for your support!

Bush Hill School Testing Coordinators- Kaitlyn Side & Alison Garner

5927 Westchester St, Alexandria, VA 22310 | Main Office: 703-924-5600
Attendance: 703-924-5656 | Web | Twitter

Happy New Year - Special Edition News You Choose - Friday, January 10, 2025

GovDelivery1 month 1 week ago

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Celebrating Inclusive Schools Week Panther PTA

Upcoming Events

January 13 - Chick-Fil A Restaurant Night
January 31 - Silent Auction opens online
February 7 - Bingo Night

Some Winter Enrichment classes start next week – Sign up Today!

Winter Enrichment Programs Full List

BSTEM Introduction to Game Design (starts 1/31)

Fridays 7:50 AM - 8:50 AM (Grade levels: 1-6)

Price: $160

Register for Game Design

BSTEM 3D Printing (starts 1/28)

Tuesdays 7:50 AM - 8:50 AM (Grade levels: 1-6)

Price: $160

Register for 3D Printing

iCook, Cooking Culinary World Tour; (starts 1/22)

Wednesday 4:00pm-5:00pm (Grade Levels: K-4)

Price: $184 + processing fee

Register for Cooking Class

iSTEAM, Space Explorers; science (starts 1/23)

Thursday 4:00pm-5:00pm (Grade Levels: K-4)

Price: $184 + processing fee

Register for iSteam Space Explorers

Kidcreate; Advanced Drawing Anime, art class -STARTS 1/15

Wednesdays 4:10pm-5:10pm (Grade Levels: 3-5)

Price: $176

Register for Advanced Drawing Anime

Kidcreate; Claylicious, art class STARTS 1/15

Wednesdays 4:10pm-5:10pm (Grade Levels: K-2)

Price: $176

Register for Kidcreate Clay Art Class

Learn Now Music; play piano, violin, guitar and drums STARTS 1/14

Tuesdays 4:15pm-5:15pm (Grade levels: K-6)

Price: $185

Register for Learn Now Music

LEGO Skills and Creativity Series: Exploring Space STARTS 1/14

Tuesdays 4:10pm-5:10pm (Grade Levels: K-6)

Price: $150

Register for LEGO Skills & Creativity

Sports Spectacular - STARTS 1/16

Thursdays 4:00pm-5:00pm (Grade Levels: K-6)

Price: $160

Register for Sports Spectacular

Your Best Chess, chess class STARTS 1/14

Tuesdays 4:05pm-5:05pm (Grade levels: K-6)

Price: $135

Register for Ches Tuesday PM

Your Best Chess, chess class STARTS 1/15

Wednesdays 7:50am-8:50am (Grade levels: K-6)

Price: $135

Register for Chess Wednesday AM

Silent Auction & Bingo Night Baskets and Donations

Please see sign up links below, if you are willing to donate send the item to their classroom or the front office by January 31.

Pre-K: Beach Day

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BA4AD2DA0FCC07-54278875-prek#/

K: Movie Night

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BA4AD2DA0FCC07-54278581-kindergarten#/

1st: Candy & Sweets

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BA4AD2DA0FCC07-54278684-1stgrade#

2nd: Baking

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BA4AD2DA0FCC07-54278723-2ndgrade#/

3rd: Warm & Cozy

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BA4AD2DA0FCC07-54278758-3rdgrade#/

4th: Outdoors

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BA4AD2DA0FCC07-54278791-4thgrade#/

5th: Game Night

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BA4AD2DA0FCC07-54278814-5thgrade#/

6th: Spa at Home https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BA4AD2DA0FCC07-54278858-6thgrade#/

Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration

Registration for the countywide lottery for 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. Meetings are 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 DLI Program Registration webpage.

SpanishInscripción en el Programa de Inmersión en Dos IdiomasLa inscripción para la lotería en todo el condado para los programas de Inmersión en Dos Idiomas (DLI) se abrirá el lunes 13 de enero. Los estudiantes actuales de pre-kínder pueden aplicar para el programa de inmersión de kínder, y los estudiantes actuales de kínder pueden aplicar para los programas de inmersión de primer grado para el año escolar 2024-25.

Los programas están disponibles en Francés, Alemán, Japonés, Coreano y Español.

Los padres que estén interesados en los programas DLI en FCPS son invitados a asistir a una reunión informativa. Los detalles sobre el acceso a las reuniones virtuales estarán disponibles en la página de inscripción de Inmersión en Dos Idiomas para la fecha de la reunión.

Más información sobre los programas DLI y la inscripción.

Free Webinars and Events for Families Family Resource Center Webinars and FCPS Family Academy

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

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.

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.

Order Your Yearbook Today

5927 Westchester St, Alexandria, VA 22310 | Main Office: 703-924-5600
Attendance: 703-924-5656 | Web | Twitter

Bush Hill Updates - Tuesday, December 17, 2024

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A Note From Mrs. Duffy

Dear Families,

As the year 2024 draws to a close, I want to express my sincere gratitude for your continued support and partnership in your child's education. It is a privilege to work alongside you in fostering a positive and enriching learning environment for all our students.

We are excited that winter break is just around the corner! School will be closed from December 23 to January 3.

During this time, the main office will also be closed, and staff will be unavailable to respond to emails or phone calls. We are encouraging our staff to use this time to relax, recharge, and enjoy quality time with their loved ones. We hope that you will be able to do the same!

We look forward to welcoming our students back to school on January 6th, refreshed and ready for the new year!

Wishing you all a joyous holiday season filled with warmth, laughter, and cherished memories.

Sincerely,

Mary E. Duffy, Principal

Pastries With Panters Computer Science Education Week Book Fair Winter Concert

Join us for our Strings Concert on January 8, 2025.

Panther PTA

Donate to the Staff Holiday Breakfast

Help say an end of year thank you to our amazing staff with a breakfast tomorrow December 18th! Use the link below to donate.

Holiday Breakfast Donation

PTA Reflections Program Winners

Kudos to our participants in the 24-25 PTA Reflections Art Contest. We acknowledge all of Bush Hill’s artists and their creativity, dedication and courage expressing the theme “Accepting Imperfections” through their work. We celebrate your amazing talent.

Additionally, the following submissions will compete at the county/council PTA level: Trevor - The Poison Volt, Primary Visual Art; Ariana - Mistake, Intermediate Dance; Avilea - Don’t Give Up, Intermediate Photography; Kennedy - Nothing’s Perfect, Intermediate Music Composition; Avery - Girl With Imperfections, Intermediate Visual Arts; Joury - Differences Among the People, Middle School Visual Arts

Your BHES community is proud of your efforts!

Upcoming Events

January is 2025 - Poverty Awareness Month

Winter Enrichment is here!

Support our School during Holiday Shopping!

Minted

Shop for holiday cards, photo books, and more at minted.com and use promo code FUNDRAISEBUSHHILL. You will get 20% off your order and 15% will be donated to Bush Hill!!

Givebacks App

How it works:

Create
your Givebacks account
Link your credit cards in the Givebacks app.
Shop or dine at a participating locations and a portion of your purchase / bill is donated to Bush Hill ES!
Explore the “Earn: In-Store” tab in Givebacks for nearby locations.

Shopping Online

Add the Givebacks extension to your Safari or Chrome browser and earn donations for Bush Hill ES at no extra cost to you when you shop at participating online stores (on your computer)

The Givebacks extension will pop up when you shop online or search on Google.
Click
'Activate' on the extension before you check out
The brand will donate a portion of your purchase to your favorite causes
Shopping on your Phone

Download the Givebacks app
Enable the mobile extension (Safari on iPhone and Chrome on Android)
Shop using your mobile browser

January is Poverty Awareness Month

Each January, we observe Poverty Awareness Month, an opportunity to reflect on the challenges faced by the millions who struggle daily to survive and provide basic needs for themselves and their families. However, awareness alone will not solve this crisis. We must combine reflection with action — through advocacy, volunteerism, and donations — if we aim to make meaningful progress in alleviating poverty within our lifetimes.

Silent Auction & Bingo Night - Can you spare an hour of time?

Bingo night and Silent Auction are coming in February. We are actively soliciting for donations. Can you spare an hour a week to reach out to local businesses or pick up donated items?

We ask you to consider your talents, skills, and professional background and consider donating your time in the form of a ‘service.’ Are you someone who works with your hands and could donate your time to build or create something for a fellow Bush Hill family? Are you an artist, a chef or restaurant owner, a small business owner? Do you know someone who could donate their time or services?

Complete the form below to let us know how you can help!

Silent Auction & Bingo Night Volunteer Form

Spiritwear

Did you know we have car magnets back in stock? Use the link here to order Magnets. Need other Bush Hill spiritwear? Check out our online store and the holiday sale going on here BHES spiritwear

Family Liaison Corner Celebrating Inclusive Schools Week Special Education Resources

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.

Last Chance Lost & Found

Please check Lost & Found. All unclaimed items will be donated over the winter break.

From FCPS Calendar Reminders ❄️ Winter Break (Student Holiday)

Winter break is Monday, December 23, 2025, through Friday, January 3, 2025. 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 before the break, allowing students to practice time management skills, but no assignments will be due immediately after the break.

Classes resume on Monday, January 6, 2025. See the complete school year calendar.

⛄ Winter Resources for Families

A list of resources has been compiled for students and families in case they or someone they know needs 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.

Even If 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.

🗓️ Plan Ahead: Future School Year Calendars Are Available

Visit the calendar webpage for printable calendars of the current school year through 2026-27, lists of key dates, or to subscribe to calendars.

💻 Fairfax County Public Library Loans More Than Just Books

Need to borrow a Chromebook or internet hotspot? Borrow them — or other helpful items — for free from a Fairfax County Public Library. Dozens of items are available to check out from the Library of Things at no cost with your library card. Items such as artwork, binoculars, games, Conserve Energy Kits, early literacy Launchpad tablets, nature backpacks, and thermal cameras are available.

The library’s Family History Kits include everything you need to capture tales from the past and present such as a voice recorder, instructions, and interview prompts in English, Spanish, and Korean.

Visit your local Fairfax County Public Library branch or the Library of Things webpage for more information.

Quick Links

SIS ParentVUE

5927 Westchester St, Alexandria, VA 22310 | Main Office: 703-924-5600
Attendance: 703-924-5656 | Web | Twitter

Special Edition NYC - The Book Fair

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Visit the book fair homepage here to set up learn more and set up eWallet!

Volunteers are needed! Please sign up here to help with the book fair Sign up by clicking here!

Shopping will be by class this year. Please see the shopping schedule below.

5927 Westchester St, Alexandria, VA 22310 | Main Office: 703-924-5600
Attendance: 703-924-5656 | Web | Twitter

Bush Hill Updates - Tuesday, December 10, 2024

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Panther PTA

Upcoming Events

December 13 - Ledo Restaurant Night
January 2025 - Poverty Awareness Month

Turkey Trot Update

We raised over $12,000! We more than doubled our goal!

Bush Hill students ran 13,488 laps during our Turkey Trot. What an amazing accomplishment.

Top Fundraiser Classes

Ms. Gallego's Kindergarten Class
Ms. Becker's Kindergarten Class
Ms. Steventon's Kindergarten Class

Some Honorable Mentions for high fundraising include Ms. Pratt's 6th Grade Class, Ms. Faye's 3rd Grade and Ms.Kirchmier's 3rd grade class.

The Top Running Classes are (aka the classes that ran the most laps):

Pratt's 6th Grade Class
Fahey's 3rd Grade class
Martin's 6th Grade class

Some of our other amazing running classes include Ms. Kirchmier's 3rd Grade, Dowd's 5th Grade class, and Fleshman's 5th Grade.

Congratulations to all our amazing Bush Hill students and those top prize winners! The PTA wants to send a big thank you to all the staff, teachers, students, parents and others who made the Turkey Trot possible.

Donate to the Staff Holiday Breakfast

Help say an end of year thank you to our amazing staff with a breakfast on December 18th! Use the link below to donate.

Holiday Breakfast Donation

Support our School during Holiday Shopping!

Minted

Shop for holiday cards, photo books, and more at minted.com and use promo code FUNDRAISEBUSHHILL. You will get 20% off your order and 15% will be donated to Bush Hill!!

Givebacks App

How it works:

Create your Givebacks account
Link your credit cards in the Givebacks app.
Shop or dine at a participating locations and a portion of your purchase / bill is donated to Bush Hill ES!
Explore the “Earn: In-Store” tab in Givebacks for nearby locations.

Shopping Online

Add the Givebacks extension to your Safari or Chrome browser and earn donations for Bush Hill ES at no extra cost to you when you shop at participating online stores (on your computer)

The Givebacks extension will pop up when you shop online or search on Google.
Click 'Activate' on the extension before you check out
The brand will donate a portion of your purchase to your favorite causes!

(on your phone)

❖ Download the Givebacks app

❖ Enable the mobile extension (Safari on iPhone and Chrome on Android)

❖ Shop using your mobile browser

Spiritwear

Did you know we have car magnets back in stock? Use the link here to order Magnets.

Need other Bush Hill spiritwear? Check out our online store BHES spiritwear.

Silent Auction & Bingo Night - Can you spare an hour of time?

Bingo night and Silent Auction are coming in February. We are actively soliciting for donations. Can you spare an hour a week to reach out to local businesses or pick up donated items?

Complete the form below to let us know how you can help!

Silent Auction & Bingo Night Volunteer Form

Winter Enrichment is here!

Register now for BHES Winter Enrichment programs! See the flyers below, click on the link below for information about each program. The flyers are also coming home in Tuesday folders. Winter Enrichment Program Info

Family Liaison Corner Please Join Us

Our Strings Concert will be held on January 8, 2025.

GOTR

GIRLS ON THE RUN NEEDS A SPRING 2025 HEAD COACH!!!

Dear BHES Community:

Girls on the Run needs you! We need a Head Coach or Head Coaches for the Spring 2025 season, or we will not have a team.

About GOTR

Girls on the Run has fun, evidence-based programs that inspire participants to recognize their inner strength, increase their level of physical activity, imagine their possibilities, and confidently stand up for themselves and others.

Girls on the Run inspires individuals of all abilities to discover, build, and grow their self-confidence. Together, they experience a sense of belonging and connection as a team. Volunteer coaches facilitate lessons that blend physical activity with life skill development, including managing emotions, fostering friendships, and expressing empathy. At the end of the season, the team completes a Community Impact Project and a 5K together, which provides a tangible sense of accomplishment and sets a confident mindset into motion.

www.gotrnova.org/programs

Become a Coach

Girls on the Run coaches are trained volunteers who lead a team of participants through a season of powerful and fun lessons. You do not need to be a runner; you simply need to have a desire to support and encourage the next generation. Coaches receive all the tools and support they need and find that they get as much out of coaching as they give.

www.gotrnova.org/coach

If you're interested in learning more, please email [email protected] and [email protected]

Lost & Found

Please visit lost & found. All items will be donated over the Winter Break.

Rise & Shine Be On Time! Doors open at 8:50 AM Attendance Is Important Every Day!

The weeks surrounding winter break often include more empty seats in classrooms. Every hour of every school day is a unique opportunity for students to learn, connect, and grow. Let’s nurture a rock-solid attendance habit.

A big thank you to:

🌟 Students who show up daily 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 help our learners.

If you or your child need support, please contact a school counselor (Ms. El Baba; Ms. Cate; Ms. Darlington), social worker (Ms. Cann), or family liaison (Ms. Dima).

If your child is not feeling well, please refer to our guidance on when to keep your child home.

We account for every child every day. If your child will be absent or tardy, please notify us by calling our 24-hour attendance line @ 703-924-5656 or email [email protected]

Find more attendance resources.

Happy Holidays ❄️ Winter Break (Student Holiday)

Winter break is Monday, December 23, 2025 through Friday, January 3, 2025.

Classes resume on Monday, January 6, 2025. We look forward to welcoming students back in the new year!

See the complete school year calendar.

Order Your Yearbook Today Preschool Opportunities

Formed Families Forward is pleased to offer a new training for parents and caregivers to boost family safety and wellness as you prepare for all of the excitement and disruptions of your children’s break from school and their expectations for winter holiday celebrations. Join us for an interactive workshop and get new strategies for managing the winter break and for starting the new year strong!

12/16/2024, 11:45 am-1:00 pm (with a light lunch provided) OR 6:45 - 8:00 pm (with a light dinner provided):

Location: Charles Houston Recreation Center

Address: 901 Wythe St., Alexandria, VA 22314

Simultaneous SPANISH interpretation is available upon request. Register Here.

From FCPS

Webinar - Protecting Kids Against Digital Exploitation: Keeping Kids Safe Online December 13, 2024, from 10-11:30 a.m. Register Here

Join us for this important webinar presented jointly by Fairfax County Schools, the Fairfax County Police Department, the Department of Justice, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

Webinar Highlights:

What is Sextortion?
What are FCPS and FCPD seeing in relation to sextortion?
How can families help prevent their kids from becoming victims?
How should families respond if their child was victimized?

🍲 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 discover the many resources available to support those experiencing food insecurity 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 winter reading adventure has begun and will continue through Friday, January 31, 2025. Visit your local FCPL branch or their Winter Reading Adventure 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, the Holiday Lantern Tour at Colvin Run Mill, and many more fun events.

Quick Links

SIS ParentVUE

5927 Westchester St, Alexandria, VA 22310 | Main Office: 703-924-5600
Attendance: 703-924-5656 | Web | Twitter

Bush Hill Updates - Tuesday, December 3, 2024

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A Note From Mrs. Duffy

Dear Bush Hill Families,

Welcome back from Thanksgiving break! I hope you all had a wonderful time with family and friends.

As you know, FCPS has begun using the new Benchmark Advance program in grades K-6 to support literacy instruction this year. This program provides students with a comprehensive and engaging learning experience. We have completed the first two units and are on to our third! At Bush Hill, we know that families are important partners in this work, so I wanted to share two different resources that may be helpful to you and your child at home:

Family-Facing Curriculum

K-12 health, language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies units. What will my child learn ? What connections can I make at home? What information can I share with a tutor? What testing should we expect this year?

I hope you have a wonderful week!

Sincerely,

Mary Duffy

A December To Remember Picture Re-Take Day Is Tomorrow REMINDER ! Makeup and Retake Picture Day is Wednesday, December 4th

Any student who would like a retake, missed the original picture day or is new to Bush Hill can have their photo taken.

Students who have not previously ordered can still place a preorder for retake day using the link below:

https://vando.imagequix.com/g1001153724#login

Panther PTA

Upcoming Events

December 13 - Ledo Restaurant Night
January 2025 - Poverty Awareness Month

PTA Reflections Program

One more day for submissions!

This year Bush Hill PTA is proud to partner with VA and National PTA to participate in the Reflections program. Reflections engages students and their families in arts education activities by encouraging students to explore the arts for fun and recognition. Reflections provides an opportunity for students to express their creativity in one of 6 artistic categories:

Dance Choreography
Film Production
Literature
Music Compositions
Photography
Visual Art

The Reflections theme for 2024-2025 is “Accepting Imperfections.”

Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 6 students are encouraged to submit original works of art expressing this year’s theme; Reflections art works are being accepted now through Tuesday December 3. Please see the link to the student entry package below for detailed submission information. Contact PTA if there are additional questions/concerns, [email protected]; please put “Reflections” in the subject line.

Reflections Student Entry Packet

Reflection Submissions Portal

Donate to the Staff Holiday Breakfast

Help say an end of year thank you to our amazing staff with a breakfast in December. Use the link below to donate.

Holiday Breakfast Donation

Spiritwear

Did you know we have car magnets back in stock? Use the link here to order Magnets.

Need other Bush Hill spiritwear? Check out our online store and the holiday sale going on here BHES spiritwear, see flyer below.

Coming Soon! The Book Fair

Visit the book fair homepage here to set up learn more and set up eWallet!

Would you like to help with the book fair? Sign up by clicking here!

Family Liaison Corner Please Join Us Girls On The Run (GOTR)

GIRLS ON THE RUN NEEDS A SPRING 2025 HEAD COACH!!!

Dear BHES Community:

Girls on the Run needs you! We need a Head Coach or Head Coaches for the Spring 2025 season, or we will not have a team.

About GOTR

www.gotrnova.org/programs

Become a Coach

www.gotrnova.org/coach

If you're interested in learning more, please email [email protected] and [email protected]

Family Life Education (FLE)

he elementary FLE program is taught by the regular classroom teacher. The early elementary program emphasizes the importance of families, distinction between good and bad touch, sources of help, and the importance of friendships. Human sexuality is first introduced in grade four. In the Human Growth and Development unit, students learn about the male and female reproductive systems. Students view age-appropriate videos and learn the maturational process, changes which occur during puberty, and prenatal development. Students study the effects of peer pressure and begin to examine the influence of media on behavior and attitudes. Students begin an understanding of sexually transmitted infections in grade 5. The emotional and social health unit includes abuse prevention from good touch/bad touch in primary grades to types of abuse in upper elementary grades. Instruction for abuse prevention includes resources for help.

Opt-out forms for students in general education classes are available in the Parent Digital Consent (PDC). A paper opt-out form is being used for students in special education and using the modified FLE lessons for the 2024-25 school year)

https://www.fcps.edu/academics/curriculum/subject-area/family-life-education-fle/fle-opt-out-request-forms

https://www.fcps.edu/family-resources/technology/digital-resources/consent/directions

Log on to Schoology

https://www.fcps.edu/schoology/parents

Lessons are under the “All Parents/Guardians” Course in Schoology”

The folder is labeled “Family Life Education Lessons”

Lost & Found

Please check our overflowing Lost & Found for your coats, sweaters, water bottles, hats, gloves, books, lunch boxes, etc. All items will be donated over the winter break.

From FCPS ⛄ Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

Your school’s principal will monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and other weather advisories that 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 getting cold-weather clothing for your family, please call 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.

📖 Lexia Parent Night: Helping Children Learn to Read

Attend a virtual information night on Thursday, December 5, to learn about Lexia and discover strategies to support your child’s literacy.

✨ Integrating Lexia into the literacy curriculum aligns with the Virginia Literacy Act, FCPS’ Equitable Access to Literacy, and FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan Goal 3, which aims to have all students reading on grade level by the end of third grade.

Visit the Family Academy Catalog for more classes, workshops, and webinars.

Quick Links

SIS ParentVUE

5927 Westchester St, Alexandria, VA 22310 | Main Office: 703-924-5600
Attendance: 703-924-5656 | Web | Twitter

Bush Hill Updates - Tuesday, November 26, 2024

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A Note From Mrs. Duffy

Dear Bush Hill Families,

As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, I want to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude for your continued support and partnership. Your commitment to your child's education is truly inspiring, and it makes a significant difference in our school community.

I am also incredibly grateful for our dedicated students and staff. Our students work hard every day, and their enthusiasm for learning is contagious. Our staff members are passionate about education and go above and beyond to support our students' success.

I hope this Thanksgiving break provides you and your family with a much-needed opportunity to rest, recharge, and enjoy quality time together. As we gather around the table, let's remember to give thanks for the many good things in our lives, including our Bush Hill community!

Wishing you and your family a warm and joyful Thanksgiving.

Sincerely,

Mary Duffy

Please Complete Your Federal Impact Aid Survey

All families should complete a Federal Impact Aid Survey as soon as possible. The form is available in ParentVUE under Online Packets (in the upper right corner after logging in).

Please complete the form for each school-aged child in your household. Information from this survey resulted in more than $4 million in funding last year from the U.S. Department of Education. The funds support all Fairfax County public schools and centers. Visit the Federal Impact Aid Survey page to learn more.

Register for ParentVUE

Learn how to activate your ParentVUE account, so you can easily submit your survey and have access to other helpful information about your child.

Happy Thanksgiving Calendar Reminder: Thanksgiving

Schools and offices will be closed Wednesday, November 27, through Friday, November 29. Classes will resume on Monday, December 2. See the complete school year calendar and employee calendar.

Advanced Academics

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

Parents/guardians of students in Grades 2-7 who would like their student to be considered for Full-Time advanced academic programs may submit the AAP Full-Time Referral Form to the Bush Hill ES Main Office 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.

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.

Family Life Education

The elementary FLE program is taught by the regular classroom teacher. The early elementary program emphasizes the importance of families, distinction between good and bad touch, sources of help, and the importance of friendships. Human sexuality is first introduced in grade four. In the Human Growth and Development unit, students learn about the male and female reproductive systems. Students view age-appropriate videos and learn the maturational process, changes which occur during puberty, and prenatal development. Students study the effects of peer pressure and begin to examine the influence of media on behavior and attitudes. Students begin an understanding of sexually transmitted infections in grade 5. The emotional and social health unit includes abuse prevention from good touch/bad touch in primary grades to types of abuse in upper elementary grades. Instruction for abuse prevention includes resources for help.

To learn more and/or to Opt Out of FLE - please visit

https://www.fcps.edu/academics/elementary/family-life-education

Panther PTA

Dance Choreography
Film Production
Literature
Music Compositions
Photography
Visual Art

The Reflections theme for 2024-2025 is “Accepting Imperfections.”

Reflections Student Entry Packet

Family Liaison Corner SEL Screener

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 your child’s school.

Please Join Us Winter Book Fair

Save the date! Please consider volunteering at our Book Fair. Sign up by clicking here!

Snow Day? Prepare 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 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.

Wash Your Hands

Your Health Is In Your Hands with the Help from a Shark

As we transition into the fall and winter seasons, it's important to remind our students, staff, and families about the importance of practicing good hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette. These simple practices can significantly reduce the spread of germs, particularly during the upcoming holiday season when gatherings and travel increase.

Key Reminders:

Wash Hands Frequently: Encourage students to wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating, after using the restroom, and after blowing their nose, coughing, or sneezing.
Use Hand Sanitizer: When soap and water are not readily available, provide access to alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol content.
Cover Coughs and Sneezes: Remind students to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue or their elbow when coughing or sneezing. Dispose of tissues properly in a wastebasket and wash their hands.
Avoid Touching Face: Discourage students from touching their eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

Lost & Found

Please check our overflowing Lost & Found. Remember to label children's items so if lost, they can be rerturned. Items not claimed by the Winter Break will be donated. Thank you.

FCPS Quick Links

5927 Westchester St, Alexandria, VA 22310 | Main Office: 703-924-5600
Attendance: 703-924-5656 | Web | Twitter

Bush Hill Updates - Tuesday, November 19, 2024

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Student Portraits Are Now Online

Great News!

Your school photos are now online.

School Photos are now online!

Families should have received an E-proof via email.

Please remember to check your spam.

For any questions about your student's school pictures please contact: [email protected]

The team at Victor O’Neill Studios would like to thank Bush Hill Elementary for a great picture day!

Spirit Week! Thanksgiving Luncheon & Turkey Trot

Volunteers are needed to make this a successful event. Please consider donating your time. Thank you! Please dress warmly! Thursday is supposed to be a chilly fall day!

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0845ADA922A1FDC43-52833464-bush

Panther PTA

Upcoming Events

November 20 - PTA Meeting (virtual), 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
November 21 - Turkey Trot Fundraiser, Bush Hill ES, 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
November 24 - LEGO Challenge League competition, good luck BHES team!
December 13 - Ledo Restaurant Night

Turkey Trot Fundraiser

We made our $5,000 goal. What a success thank you! Let’s keep it going to make this Turkey Trot a huge success!

We need volunteers to help with the Turkey Trot, Signup to Volunteer.

The Turkey Trot fundraiser will run now through Friday, November 29. On November 21, before the Thanksgiving luncheon, students will have the chance to run as many laps as they can. This is not only a chance to stay active but also to reflect on what they’re grateful for, all while raising funds that will directly benefit our school and students.

The proceeds from this event will help fund amazing initiatives, including field trips, classroom libraries, a new school sign (a long-term goal we can all be excited about) and future Bush Hill community activities.

Classes with the most funds raised and most laps will receive prizes!

1st Place - Pizza Party

2nd Place - Dance Party

3rd Place - Extra Recess

Since we achieved our school-wide goal of $5,000 raised, we will have a EGGstra fun SURPRISE after the Thanksgiving Holiday!!

How it works

Now - November 21 - Students set lap goals and secure donations. People who donate can make a pledge for each lap run, or a flat donation.
November 21 - In-person Fun Run! We will have on-site areas to drop off donations at the Thanksgiving Luncheon. Parents are welcome to cheer on your student at the Fun Run and we need volunteers to help with marking laps!
November 21 - 29 - Return donations collected via cash/check. Make checks payable to Bush Hill Elementary PTA (please note the class grade and teacher). Donations can also be dropped off to the Main Office. The online site will close for donations November 29.

How to collect pledges/donations

Your student received instructions in their Tuesday Folders. We encourage you to register now online to start collecting pledges right away! Click here to register: Turkey Trot Registration. Once your child is registered, you will be able to track your progress online! You can view your pledges and donations, see your donation progress, and follow along with your class's progress! Problems registering? See our detailed instructions. Turkey Trot Registration Instructions. We need volunteers to help with the Turkey Trot, Signup to Volunteer.

Spiritwear

Did you know we have car magnets back in stock? Use the link here to order Magnets.

Need other Bush Hill spiritwear? Check out our online store and the holiday sale going on here BHES spiritwear, see flyer below.

Dance Choreography
Film Production
Literature
Music Compositions
Photography
Visual Art

The Reflections theme for 2024-2025 is “Accepting Imperfections.”

Reflections Student Entry Packet

Be on the lookout for Winter Enrichment programs! We plan to put those out after the Thanksgiving Holiday.

Support our School during Holiday Shopping!

Minted

Shop for holiday cards, photo books, and more at minted.com and use promo code FUNDRAISEBUSHILL. You will get 20% off your order and 15% will be donated to Bush Hill!!

Givebacks App

How it works:

Create your Givebacks account
Link your credit cards in the Givebacks app.
Shop or dine at a participating locations and a portion of your purchase / bill is donated to Bush Hill ES!
Explore the “Earn: In-Store” tab in Givebacks for nearby locations.

Shopping Online

Add the Givebacks extension to your Safari or Chrome browser and earn donations for Bush Hill ES at no extra cost to you when you shop at participating online stores

(on your computer)

The Givebacks extension will pop up when you shop online or search on Google.
Click 'Activate' on the extension before you check out
The brand will donate a portion of your purchase to your favorite causes!

(on your phone)

Download the Givebacks app
Enable the mobile extension (Safari on iPhone and Chrome on Android)
Shop using your mobile browser

Stay up to date on all PTA events and opportunities by following us on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/BushHillES/ ; send any questions to [email protected]

Family Liaisons Corner Enjoy The Show! Happy Thanksgiving Calendar Reminder

Schools and offices will be closed Wednesday, November 27 through Friday, November 29, for the Thanksgiving holiday.

See the complete school year calendar and employee calendar.

Please Return Your Federal Impact Aid Survey

All families should complete a Federal Impact Aid Survey as soon as possible. The form is available in ParentVUE under Online Packets (in the upper right corner after logging in).

Register for ParentVUE

Learn how to activate your ParentVUE account, so you can easily submit your survey and have access to other helpful information about your child.

Lost & Found

Our Lost & Found is overflowing! Sweaters, Coats, Hats, Water Bottles, Lunch Boxes, Books, etc. Please swing by the next time you are in our building and take a look. Always label your children(s) items so that they can be returned to them if found. Unclaimed items will be donated during the winter break.

Rise & Shine & Be On Time Bush Hill's Doors Open at 8:50 AM Missing School During the Holidays

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

Coming In December Volunteers Needed For The Book Fair

Would you like to help with the book fair? Sign up by clicking here!

Panther Yearbooks On Sale Now

5927 Westchester St, Alexandria, VA 22310 | Main Office: 703-924-5600
Attendance: 703-924-5656 | Web | Twitter

Bush Hill Updates - Tuesday, November 12, 2024

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November Is National Family Engagement Month

Family Engagement Month is a time to remember that families are children’s first and most important teachers, advocates, and nurturers.

The FCPS Family Academy was created to support the continued success and well-being of each and every student within the FCPS community. The Academy offers a variety of positive and engaging learning opportunities and meaningful connections to transform the FCPS experience into a welcoming environment for all families.

BHES Early Release - Monday, November 18th

Bush Hill Elementary School will dismiss 3 hours early @ 12:55 PM. Please plan accordingly.

Family Liaison Corner Thanksgiving Luncheon & Turkey Trot

Volunteers are needed to make this a successful event. Please consider donating your time. Thank you!

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0845ADA922A1FDC43-52833464-bush

Panther PTA

Upcoming Events

November 18 - Chipotle Restaurant Night, 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
November 20 - PTA Meeting (virtual), 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
November 21 - Turkey Trot Fundraiser, Bush Hill ES, 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

We need your help to achieve our $5,000 goal and make this Turkey Trot a huge success!

Classes with the most funds raised and most laps will receive prizes!

1st Place - Pizza Party

2nd Place - Dance Party

3rd Place - Extra Recess

When we achieve our school-wide goal of $5,000 raised, we will have a EGGstra fun SURPRISE!!

How it works

Now - November 21 - Students set lap goals and secure donations. People who donate can make a pledge for each lap run, or a flat donation.
November 21 - In-person Fun Run! We will have on-site areas to drop off donations at the Thanksgiving Luncheon. Parents are welcome to cheer on your student at the Fun Run and we need volunteers to help with marking laps!
November 21 - 29 - Return donations collected via cash/check. Make checks payable to Bush Hill Elementary PTA (please note the class grade and teacher). Donations can also be dropped off to the Main Office. The online site will close for donations November 29.

How to collect pledges/donations

Your student will receive instructions in their Tuesday Folders November 12. We encourage you to register now online to start collecting pledges right away!. Click here to register: Turkey Trot Registration. Once your child is registered, you will be able to track your progress online! You can view your pledges and donations, see your donation progress, and follow along with your class's progress! Problems registering? See our detailed instructions. Turkey Trot Registration Instructions

Chipotle Restaurant Night

Join us Monday November 18th from 4pm - 8pm at Chipotle in Kingstowne!

Dance Choreography
Film Production
Literature
Music Compositions
Photography
Visual Art

The Reflections theme for 2024-2025 is “Accepting Imperfections.”

Reflections Student Entry Packet

Follow us on Facebook

Stay up to date on all PTA events and opportunities by following us on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/BushHillES/ ; send any questions to [email protected]

Miss The Math & Literacy Coffee?

On Thursday, October 24th Ms. Breen the Math Coach and Mrs. Kerr the Reading Specialist held a Parent Coffee to talk about assessments utilized within FCPS and here at Bush Hill. Here is a link to the recording of this parent coffee along with helpful links to learn more about assessments for math and literacy. If you have questions about individual students, please reach out to their homeroom teacher. If you have general questions feel free to reach out to Ms. Breen or Mrs. Kerr.

Literacy Resources for Families Webpage

A new Literacy Resources for Families webpage has been published to the external web to provide families with information about how to support their children with developing literacy knowledge and skills at home. It provides valuable information about the reading and writing resources to be used at home, the VALLSS, Reading Plans, guidance for Parent Teacher Conferences, and training available through the Family Academy.

Fall Student Testing Results Screening Assessment Reports Available in SIS ParentVUE

Each fall, FCPS students take part in screening assessments for reading and mathematics to identify strengths and areas for support. Score reports for families are posted in ParentVUE in the “Documents” section, generally about one month after testing has been completed.

iReady reports in grades 1-8 and Virginia Language and Literacy Screening System (VALLSS) reports in grades 1-3 are available in ParentVUE now.
VALLSS and Virginia Kindergarten Readiness Program (VKRP) reports for kindergarteners will be available by Friday, November 15, and for pre-K students by Friday, December 6.
Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) Growth reports for grades 6-12 will be available by Friday, December 13, following an extension to the fall testing window.

Visit FCPS’ website for additional information about student tests at each grade level, including what each test is for and when each test takes place. Caregivers may follow up with their children’s teachers for more information about how they use test results to support student success.

Register for SIS ParentVUE Learn how to activate your SIS ParentVUE account to easily access these reports and other helpful information about your child.

Please Complete Your Federal Impact Aid Survey

FCPS is asking all families to complete a Federal Impact Aid Survey as soon as possible. The form is available in ParentVUE under Online Packets (in the upper right corner after logging in). Hear from FCPS Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid and Fort Belvoir Garrison Commander Col. David Stewart about why this federal program is so important for our schools.

Please complete this form for each school-aged child in your household. Information from this survey resulted in more than $4 million in funding last year from the U.S. Department of Education. The funds support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

Please watch this video on Impact Aid and visit the Federal Impact Aid Survey page.

Learn how to activate your ParentVUE account, so you can easily submit your survey and have access to other helpful information about your child.

Pastries with Panthers is back this year! Join us before school for a light breakfast treat and to spend time with your student. All events will be held from 8:15-8:45 in the cafeteria. Please check to see which date you should attend based on your last name (Tuesday 12/10 last names A-L and Thursday 12/12 last names M-Z), and RSVP using this form by Friday December 6th.

Spiritwear Sale Hippy & Early Literacy Program FCPS Quick Links

SIS ParentVUE

5927 Westchester St, Alexandria, VA 22310 | Main Office: 703-924-5600
Attendance: 703-924-5656 | Web | Twitter

Panther PTA Special Edition -- Thursday, November 7, 2024

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Panther PTA

Congratulations!

Congrats to the Bush Hill Let Me Run team who trained hard for the last 8 weeks and finished their 5k race this past weekend, congratulations and thank you to coaches Lauren McKinnon and Chris Poulson!!!

Upcoming Events

November 18 - Chipotle Restaurant Night, 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
November 20 - PTA Meeting (virtual), 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
November 21 - Turkey Trot Fundraiser, Bush Hill ES, 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

The PTA is kicking-off our 2024 Fun Run Turkey Trot Fundraiser!

As we welcome the season of giving this November, we’re excited to kick off an opportunity for our students to support each other and our school community! The Turkey Trot fundraiser will run now through Friday, November 29. On November 21, before the Thanksgiving luncheon, students will have the chance to run as many laps as they can. This is not only a chance to stay active but also to reflect on what they’re grateful for, all while raising funds that will directly benefit our school and students.

We need your help to achieve our $5,000 goal and make this Turkey Trot a huge success!

Classes with the most funds raised and most laps will receive prizes!

1st Place - Pizza Party

2nd Place - Dance Party

3rd Place - Extra Recess

When we achieve our school-wide goal of $5,000 raised, we will have a fun SURPRISE!!

How it works

Now - November 21 - Students set lap goals and secure sponsors. Sponsors make a pledge for each lap run, or a flat donation.
November 21 - In-person Fun Run! We will have on-site areas to drop off donations at the Thanksgiving Luncheon.
November 21 - 29 - Return donations collected via cash/check. Make checks payable to Bush Hill Elementary PTA (please note the class grade and teacher). Donations can also be dropped off to the Main Office. The online site will close for donations November 29.

How to collect pledges/donations

Volunteers Are Needed!

For both the Thanksgiving Luncheon & the Turkey Treat. Sign up today!

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0845ADA922A1FDC43-52833464-bush

Dance Choreography
Film Production
Literature
Music Compositions
Photography
Visual Art

The Reflections theme for 2024-2025 is “Accepting Imperfections.”

Reflections Student Entry

Spiritwear

Did you know we have car magnets back in stock? Use the link here to order Magnets.

Need other Bush Hill spiritwear? Check out our online store and the holiday sale going on here BHES spiritwear, see flyer below

Follow us on Facebook

Stay up to date on all PTA events and opportunities by following us on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/BushHillES/ ; send any questions to [email protected]

5927 Westchester St, Alexandria, VA 22310 | Main Office: 703-924-5600
Attendance: 703-924-5656 | Web | Twitter

Bush Hill Updates - Tuesday, November 5, 2024

GovDelivery3 months 2 weeks ago

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November Is Family Engagement In Education Month Bush Hill Legacy Brick Update

The legacy bricks purchased back in the Spring of 2024 have been laid. The bricks are on the path between doors 3 and 5.

If you are interested in purchasing a legacy brick, see the link below. All sales of the legacy brick are through My School Bucks, you will prompted to fill out a form based on the brick you are wanting to purchase. If you have questions, please contact the office. All profits raised will be used to support student events, materials, and supplies for Bush Hill ES.

Link:

https://www.myschoolbucks.com/ver2/stores/checkout/getproduct?clientKey=ZZI5ZQWBKS04NJ8&buttonID=c23ad13d-4c15-4405-b98c-8ad89e89817c

November

11th -- Veterans Day Holiday

12th -- Report cards go home

18th -- 12:55 PM Early Release Day

21st -- Thanksgiving Luncheon Day

27th, 28th & 29th -- Thanksgiving Holiday

Honoring Our Veterans Peter Pan and Wendy

Edison High School is performing an adaptation of Peter Pan and Wendy! Performances are on November 13th, 14th, and 15th at 7pm and November 16th at 2pm in the auditorium of Edison High School. Tickets are $8 for students and $10 for adults when ordered ahead here.

Discounts are also available for any rising Edison Eagles!! For the Wednesday and Thursday shows when ordering online, use the code: FutureEagle and take 50% off up to 6 tickets.

Save The Date!

Thanksgiving Luncheon & Fun Run

Thursday, November 21, 2024

10:30 am – 2:00 pm

More information will be sent out on Wednesday, November 6th. We will need volunteers for both the Thanksgiving Luncheon and the Fun Run. Look for a Sign-Up Genius next week.

Federal Impact Aid Survey

FCPS is asking all families to complete a Federal Impact Aid Survey as soon as possible. The form is available in ParentVUE under Online Packets (in the upper right corner after logging in).

Completing this form for each school-aged child in every household is important. Information from this survey resulted in more than $4 million in funding last year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

For more information, please watch this video on Impact Aid and visit the Federal Impact Aid Survey page.

Learn how to activate your SISParentVUE account, so you can easily submit your survey and have access to other helpful information about your child.

From FCPS Upcoming Family Academy Events

You are an important part of your child's education! The 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.

🖥️ Free Webinars for Families

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

Supporting siblings of children with disabilities for middle school siblings (in-person event).
5 Ways to De-Escalate a Nuclear Meltdown and Stop the Shame Cycle.
Language Arts and Literacy Instruction for Students with Significant Cognitive Disabilities.
Executive Functioning Skills (presented in Arabic).
Helping Teens Develop Coping Skills and Emotional Intelligence.
Starting the Conversation About Drugs.

Moving on to Life in the Community Resource Fair

This event is for students with developmental and intellectual disabilities who will need continued support after they leave FCPS. Families will learn about supported employment options, day support programs, recreation/leisure activities, residential living options, travel training supports, advocacy, and funding.

The Moving on to Life in the Community resource fair will take place Wednesday, November 13, 6:30-8:30 p.m., in the cafeteria at Fairfax High School. Interpretation will be provided using Microsoft Translator on supported devices. Staff will be available to help participants as needed.

✨ Fostering trusting partnerships with families is included in Pillar B of the FCPS Strategic Plan: Vibrant Home, School, and Community Partnerships.

Quick Links

SIS ParentVUE

5927 Westchester St, Alexandria, VA 22310 | Main Office: 703-924-5600
Attendance: 703-924-5656 | Web | Twitter

1 hour 11 minutes ago

Bush Hill Elementary School News and announcements

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