FCPS

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Blue Star Welcome Week Sept. 25th-29th

Blue Star Welcome Week is a nationwide initiative to provide a warm welcome to the 600,000 active-duty and transitioning military families that move into new communities each year. It is the goal of Blue Star Families to proactively improve military families’ sense of belonging to their local communities by forging strong connections between our military family members and their local neighbors.  If you are a new military family, welcome to Bush Hill ES!  Please check out the FCPS military families Welcome Page  and the FCPS military families Resources Page.

A Community Conversation

• 🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Community Conversations Kick Off  

Join Superintendent Reid for Our Schools, Our Future – A Community Conversation at Hayfield Secondary School on Tuesday, September 26, 6:30-7:30 p.m., or at Whitman Middle School on Wednesday, September 27, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Share your thoughts about FCPS and bring your questions. 

These events are part of a series of Community Conversations this fall and spring in each region. Days and times for the additional region events will be shared soon. Visit FCPS’ webpage to find out when and where you can engage with Dr. Reid.

Register to attend. Pre-registration is not required. Childcare and interpretation services will be provided for all events based on staff availability. 

• Spanish:🎤 Nuestras Escuelas, Nuestro Futuro: Inicio de las Conversaciones Comunitarias  Únase a la Superintendente Reid para Nuestras Escuelas, Nuestro Futuro - Conversación Comunitaria en la Escuela Secundaria de Hayfield el Martes, 26 de Septiembre, 6:30-7:30 p.m., o en la Escuela Secundaria de Whitman el Miércoles, 27 de Septiembre, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Comparta sus pensamientos y preguntas sobre FCPS. 

Estos eventos son parte de una serie de Conversaciones Comunitarias este otoño y primavera en cada región. Los días y horas para los eventos de las regiones adicionales serán compartidos pronto. Visite la página web de FCPS para averiguar cuándo y dónde puede participar con Dr. Reid. 

Regístrese para asistir. No se requiere inscripción anticipada. Se proporcionará cuidado de niños y servicios de interpretación para todos los eventos según la disponibilidad del personal.

Advanced Academics - An Overview

Bush Hill believes in developing the strengths and talents of all students. Every student needs to be challenged and engaged in exciting learning experiences.

Bush Hill’s AAP offers a continuum of advanced academic services to meet a broad range of student needs. We take a holistic approach that uses a variety of assessments to determine the level of service to match the child’s current needs.

Bush Hill will be hosting an Parent Information Session to share an Overview of Available Advanced Academic Elementary Services

Date: Thursday, September 28, 2023

Time: 6:00-7:00

Location: Virtual (Link will be sent vie eNotify on 9/28)

Panther PTA

TGI FRIDAYS RESTAURANT NIGHT IS THIS THURSDAY

🍽️🎉 Ready for a mouthwatering meal that supports a great cause? 🎉🍽️

Join us at TGI Fridays (6751-B Frontier Dr) on Thursday, September 28th between 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM and make a difference! With every order you place, 20% will be donated to Bush Hill Elementary School. 

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to dine in or to-go for a purpose! 

RSVP & details here: https://grouprai.se/s260476

FALL FESTIVAL

The PTA needs your help making this year's Fall Festival a success! If you have ideas, are willing to volunteer, or want to join the committee, please email [email protected]

Panther Pact Celebrations

In our first six weeks of school, your students have been learning about the Panther Pact and how to live it each day!  To celebrate our learning, at the end of each week we have had really fun school-wide celebrations.  This week our focus lessons are around belonging, and our school wide celebration is a Bush Hill Blue spirit wear day!  Wear as much Bush Hill or blue clothing as possible!  Let’s celebrate how we all belong at Bush Hill!!  Don’t forget to wear your Bush Hill Blue spirit wear this Friday, September 29th!

Shannon Nolan, Health & PE Teacher

SR & R ✍️ Student Rights and Responsibilities Acknowledgement Due September 29

FCPS’ updated Student Rights and Responsibility (SR&R) booklet is available online and in SIS ParentVUE. The SR&R booklet explains expectations for student behavior, and adult responses to enhance school safety and to create a fair, equitable, and supportive school environment. 

Each year, we ask parents/caregivers to review and sign the SR&R. The SR&R will be visible upon logging in to SIS ParentVUE until the SR&R acknowledgment has been completed.

Signatures are due by Friday, September 29. Contact your school’s front office if you are having difficulty accessing the booklet. Visit the SIS ParentVUE Account Overview webpage for help logging in to your account.

Bike To School Day Is October 4th Vision & Hearing Screening

Vision and hearing screening will be held on October 10-October 12 for all Kindergarten and 3rd graders and student who are new to Fairfax County.  If your child wears glasses, please be sure he/she has them at school on screening day. The purpose of screening is to identify students who need further evaluation because they have difficulty seeing the screening chart or hearing the screening tones.

Parents will be notified by letter if screening results indicate that further testing is needed. Vision and hearing difficulties can interfere with learning. Prompt follow-up of a referral is recommended.

Thank you!

Ca'Sandre Curry, School Health Aide

Health Department Employee Assigned to Bush Hill Elementary School

Phone: 703-924-5610

SibShops Coming October 9th

Our first Sibshops of the school year is coming up on Monday, October 9, 2023, a staff development day.  There are still a few openings so if you have a student who has a brother or sister with special needs and who could benefit from meeting peers who have similar experiences and engaging in fun recreational and discussion activities about being a sib, then please refer the parents to Sibshops.  Sibshops is for elementary school age students in grades 2-6.  This Sibshops will be held at Providence Community Center in Fairfax.

The FCPS Family Resource Center handles all registrations for Sibshops.  Please encourage parents to sign up to get News You Choose from the Parent Resource Center so they will receive alerts for the opening of Sibshops/SibTeen registration.  It is a first-come, first-served basis with 25 open slots for each workshop.  Here is the link to sign up: https://www.fcps.edu/node/47432

While Sibshops is free for all our students who participate, we do let parents know that we accept donations in order to help support future Sibshops.   The link and a QR code are listed on the Sibshops flier.

https://empower.vfhy.org/unplugging-and-encouraging-active-independent-childhoods?utm_campaign=FY24%20-%20Oct.%2012%20Webinar&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=273048025&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--3Id-VsDBT8bcvKX1yqEwKz8xmPV1zxXNzqmEktDBPcGlQhYvOYzijOL7qtzlIRogh7nulWCLtc6Z0tvumaiTdCJMgKyiDrQhZ1kTf8Gva9rTfg2U&utm_content=273048025&utm_source=hs_email

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

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September PTA Meeting

Join the PTA general membership meeting Thursday, September 21 at 7:00pm on Zoom for updates on fundraising, membership, and other initiatives.

PTA meetings are open to all parents, guardians, and teachers/staff of the school.

Zoom link: https://myfcpsk12.zoom.us/j/93224792062?pwd=YTVvRDFpeTIyT1c0NDRySWlXNmlTUT09&from=addon

 

PTA Membership Drive

 

All are welcome & encouraged to join!

SMILE - Picture Day Is Coming

Bush Hill Picture Day will be Tuesday, September 26th.  Please check your child's Tuesday folder for Barksdale picture envelopes.  If you are interested in volunteering on picture day, please email Mrs. Lisa Dial   [email protected]

Thank you!

Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist (SAPS) Introduction

Each school pyramid has a Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist (SAPS) to provide substance abuse prevention, education, and intervention services. Substance Abuse Prevention Specialists are part of the FCPS Office of Student Safety and Wellness. Like other members of the mental health team (school social workers, school psychologists, and school counselors), SAPS do not provide treatment services, but we support students while they are in the buildings.

Key roles of a Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist:

• Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug education for students, parents, staff, and Fairfax County community stakeholders.
• Intervention services upon violation of the Student Rights and Responsibilities handbook or referral for suspected substance use involvement.
• Assessment of a student’s level of substance use and, if appropriate, subsequent referrals to the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board for additional services or other community resources as appropriate.
• Individual and group interventions for students. Prevention services for students, staff, parents, and Fairfax County community stakeholders.
• Most importantly, building and maintaining positive relationships with students to provide support and encouragement.

Resources:

Free Virtual Parent Support Group

Free Online Narcan Training for Opioid Overdoses (English & Spanish)

Free Lock Boxes for Medications & Firearms

Spiritual Support by Phone for Adults

Spanish Podcast: Tips on How Parents Play an Important Role in Substance Abuse Prevention

Juvenile Court Parent Support Group

For general questions about the FCPS Substance Abuse Prevention Program, please contact the Office of Student Safety & Wellness at: (571) 423-4270.

For further Information & support:

Shawn Elliott, BS, QMHP-C

[email protected]

Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist

Healthcare Resources For Children

• Partnership for Healthier Kids This program is designed to identify uninsured children and adults and connect them to an appropriate and affordable source of quality healthcare services through programs like Medicaid, CHIP and free or low-cost medical care coverage programs for children and adults.
• Health Works for Northern Virginia HealthWorks provides excellent and affordable medical, dental and behavioral health care for patients from all backgrounds, of all ages and of all incomes including those with or without insurance. 
• Neighborhood Health Neighborhood Health provides accessible, high quality, and patient-centered primary care regardless of the ability to pay to families in Alexandria, Arlington, and Fairfax County.
• Inova Cares Clinic for Families (ICCF) ICCF provides comprehensive primary care services to patients who reflect our culturally diverse community. ICCF serves as a medical home for patients of all ages who qualify for Medicaid, FAMIS, Inova’s Financial Assistance Program, or are uninsured.
• Nova Patient Care Nova Patient Care offers primary care and walk-in services.
• CVS Minute Clinic The CVS MinuteClinic is a walk-in clinic that provides treatments, health screenings, and vaccinations.

Library Volunteers Wanted!

Calling all superhero parents, grandparents, and caregivers of Bush Hill Elementary School!

Do you have a love for books and a passion for shaping young minds? Our elementary library needs YOUR superpowers! 

We're on the hunt for volunteers to help create a magical reading haven for our little bookworms. Whether you're a literary wizard, a book-binging champion, or just looking to be part of your child's reading journey, we welcome you with open arms!  

What can you do? Be a Library Organizer:  Assist with shelving and keeping our library shipshape. Or be a Reading Sidekick:  Share the joy of reading by helping students pick out the perfect book.

Please review click here to check out the available slots and choose times that work best for you. Thank you!

Early Dismissal?

Need to leave early for a medical appointment?  A friendly reminder that early dismissals must be completed by 3:00 PM.  Please remember to bring your photo ID when picking up your children.

Would You Like To Become A Substitute Teacher? Instructional Assistant?

Learn more about becoming a substitute teacher or instructional assistant at a virtual information session on Wednesday, September 20, from 2 to 3 p.m. Register now.

Visit the Recruitment Events calendar for a list of all FCPS job fairs.

Schools Closed For Yom Kippur

All FCPS schools and offices will be closed on Monday, September 25, for Yom Kippur, the holiest day in Judaism. Learn more about Yom Kippur on Brittanica.com. 

See the complete school year calendar.

  Kiss N Ride Review Plan Ahead To "Rock The Red"

The Washington Capitals’ annual Educator’s Appreciation Night is Saturday, November 4th. Enjoy an evening with fellow educators at Capital One Arena while the Caps host the Columbus Blue Jackets at 7pm. All teachers, administrators, school staff, students, and families are encouraged to attend the game at a discounted rate, along with receiving an exclusive gift. Tickets are available through this special link (Educators Appreciation) and each ticket comes with a complimentary Educators Tumbler! All are encouraged to visit Capital One Arena to support our Educators and our Washington Capitals.

Also, don’t forget to submit an entry below to honor a deserving educator who makes a difference at your school and represents #ALLCAPS! The grand prize winner will receive a Caps prize pack that includes tickets to the game, recognition on the big screen, and signed Capitals memorabilia. If you'd like to honor a deserving educator (ex: teacher, administrator, principal, assistant, etc.) who also loves the Washington Capitals, please complete the nomination form below.

NOMINATE AN EDUCATOR

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

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Join Us For Back To School Night On Thursday

Back-to-School Night will be an in-person event this year. It will take place on Thursday, September 14th from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. There will be two sessions for families to attend in each classroom during the night, with teachers repeating the same information for both sessions.  We encourage you to participate in this valuable opportunity and learn important information about your child's classroom experience.

BTSN Schedule:

6:00 - 6:30 - Specialists and community groups host tables with information about their area in the cafeteria.

6:30 - 6:55 - First Session in classrooms

7:00 - 7:25 - Second Session in classrooms

Have You Completed These Important Forms? 

During the first weeks of the year, caregivers receive many forms to complete. Several of the most important ones are below:

1. Digital Resources Consent: Some FCPS-approved digital resources require parent/caregiver consent before they can be used by students. Find the list of resources which require consent on the Digital Resources - Parent Consent page. This page also includes directions on how to provide permission.
2. Student Rights and Responsibilities: This document explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses. Parents using SIS ParentVUE will be prompted to sign the document when they log in to that platform. A printable version of the document with a signature sheet is available on the SR&R webpage.
3. Opt-Outs: The Opt-Out Booklet is online or available from your child’s school. It contains information on: 
1. Parents’ rights to inspect and consent or opt out before their child participates in certain surveys.
2. Parents’ rights to inspect instructional materials.
3. Rules regarding student records and disclosure of student information (including photo/video of students) and the right to opt out.
4. Parents’ rights to opt out of the Social Emotional Learning Screener, physical exams not required by state law, career or social emotional counseling, Library Equity Access Pass Project, and/or Tutor.com.
5. The process by which complaints may be filed if parents or students believe their rights have been violated.

Paper forms can be signed and returned to school.  Please contact the Main Office if a paper form is needed.

Work Out Wednesdays

Great news Panthers….. Workout Wednesday are back!!!

What is Workout Wednesday you ask??

To promote movement and wellness we have Workout Wednesday’s the 2nd Wednesday of the month.

The first one is tomorrow, Wednesday September 13th!

It is done school wide for staff and students. Participation is not mandatory but encouraged. 😉

On these days Staff and student can wear workout wear or a team jersey.

Throughout the day classes are encouraged to have movement breaks or incorporate Yoga 4 Classrooms

Please talk it up with your students!! Work it out Bush Hill!

Here are the dates for the Year!!!

October 11, November 8, December 13, January 10, February 14, March 13

April 17 ( 3rd Wednesday), May 8, & June 12

Panther PTA

SY 23-24 PTA MEMBERSHIP DRIVE

Your Support Is Needed

Please join the Bush Hill PTA today!

 

We are pleased to announce our first meeting on Thursday September 21st @ 7:00 pm. Details for this virtual meeting will be sent out soon but please save the date on your calendar.

We also want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude for your invaluable support in making the Ice Cream Social a tremendous success. The Ice Cream Social was an incredible event that brought together our school community and provided an opportunity for families to bond, students to enjoy a delightful treat, and for friendships to be strengthened. It was also a successful fundraising event which will enable us to continue our efforts to support students, faculty, staff, and the entire Bush Hill community.

A special thank you goes to all the volunteers who contributed their time, energy, and resources to make this event happen. It is through volunteer support that we can continue to create such positive experiences for our students and families.

We look forward to more collaborations and events in the future that will continue to enhance our school experience.

AAP News

Advanced Academics Program

Bush Hill believes in developing the strengths and talents of all students. Every student needs to be challenged and engaged in exciting learning experiences.

Bush Hill’s AAP offers a continuum of advanced academic services to meet a broad range of student needs. We take a holistic approach that uses a variety of assessments to determine the level of service to match the child’s current needs.

Bush Hill will be hosting an Parent Information Session to share an Overview of Available Advanced Academic Elementary Services

Date: September 28, 2023

Time: 6:00-7:00

Location: Virtual (Link will be sent vie eNotify on 9/28)

Seeking Library Volunteers

Calling all superhero parents, grandparents, and caregivers of Bush Hill Elementary School!

Do you have a love for books and a passion for shaping young minds? Our elementary library needs YOUR superpowers! 

We're on the hunt for volunteers to help create a magical reading haven for our little bookworms. Whether you're a literary wizard, a book-binging champion, or just looking to be part of your child's reading journey, we welcome you with open arms!  

What can you do? Be a Library Organizer:  Assist with shelving and keeping our library shipshape. Or be a Reading Sidekick:  Share the joy of reading by helping students pick out the perfect book.

Please review click here to check out the available slots and choose times that work best for you. Thank you!

Celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of Americans whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America, starting on September 15 and ending on October 15. September is Attendance Awareness Month

Our Student Are Learning Every Day!  Rise & Shine & Be On-Time!

As you plan upcoming trips and other family events, please remember the importance of sending your child to school every day. Review the FCPS School Year Calendar and try to plan any time away during long breaks from school.

• Ensure that any trips that you have planned for the school year are on weekends and school holidays.  Every day of learning is a day toward success.
• If your child needs to miss school because of an illness or appointment, you must report the absence to the school.  You may submit information via email [email protected] or by calling 703-924-5656.  We appreciate your collaboration in scheduling appointments outside of school hours, when possible.
• If parents are aware of a future absence, such as a full day absence for a civic engagement activity (middle or high school) or cultural observance, they may contact the school to report the absence and related date. Extended absences, typically for hardship reasons, must be documented and submitted to the school principal at least three to five school days in advance for review and action.
  Elementary Prearranged Absence Form 

DID YOU KNOW?

• Preliminary data from a California study found that children who were chronically absent in kindergarten and 1st grade were far less likely to read proficiently at the end of 3rd grade. 
• Chronic absenteeism in kindergarten, and even PreK, can predict lower test scores, poor attendance and retention in later grades, especially if the problem persists for more than a year.

• Students should miss no more than nine days of school each year to stay engaged, successful, and on track to graduation.
• Absences can be a sign that a student is losing interest in school, struggling with school work, dealing with a bully, or facing some other potentially serious difficulty.
• By 6th grade, absenteeism (defined as missing 18 days per school year) is one of three signs that a student may drop out of high school.
• By 9th grade, regular and high attendance is a better predictor of graduation rates than 8th grade test scores.
• Missing 10 percent, or about 18 days, of the school year can drastically affect a student’s academic success.
• Students can be chronically absent even if they only miss a day or two every few weeks.
• Attendance is an important life skill that will help your child graduate from college and keep a job

Children who show up for school regularly develop fundamental reading and math skills while building a habit of good attendance that will carry them into college and careers. Research shows that children who were chronically absent (missing 18 days or more) in kindergarten and first grade were far less likely to read proficiently at the end of third grade.

Read more about how families can help form good attendance habits. 

Back-To-School Preventative Health Practices

Flu season is quickly approaching, and communicable diseases continue to be present in our schools. We are committed to providing students with the education and support to help them succeed while maintaining a safe environment for in-person learning. Families and staff are encouraged to engage in the following health practices to prevent the spread of illnesses. 

• Make an appointment to get a flu vaccine as soon as possible. Everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine (with rare exceptions). Flu vaccines are widely available at doctors’ and pediatricians’ offices, grocery stores, and pharmacies.
• Get vaccinated against COVID-19 if you have not done so already. An updated COVID booster for the 2023-2024 season should be released in the coming weeks and will more effectively target the current circulating strains of the virus. Find out where you can get a COVID-19 vaccine or booster in your community by visiting: vaccinate.virginia.gov or call (877) VAX-IN-VA or (877) 829-4682.
• Check with your students’ healthcare providers to make sure they are up to date on their required school entrance immunizations. Immunization records can now be updated online in SIS ParentVUE through the Online Verification Update form.
• Check for mild, cold-like symptoms each day, such as fever, runny nose, cough, or shortness of breath. Parents/caregivers are advised to keep their children home if sick and get them tested for COVID-19 to stop further spread from occurring. Employees are also advised to stay home and get tested when feeling sick.
• Don’t forget to wash hands regularly, avoid touching the face with unwashed hands, cover the mouth when coughing or sneezing, and limit the time children spend in large group settings with contagious individuals whenever possible.

The most up to date information regarding COVID-19 school health practices is available on the Health and Safety Guidance Document webpage.

Thank you for your continued partnership in keeping our schools safe and healthy.

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

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We hope you will join us ......

Ice Cream Social Volunteers Needed

We need lots of volunteers to help make this event a success! Please consider signing up here: 

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BA4AD2DA0FCC07-icecream1#/

The Bush Hill PTA would like to invite you to join us for our annual ice cream social Friday, 9/8 from 6:30-8:00pm in the Bush Hill cafeteria. 

We are very excited to kick off the 23-24 school year with this fun event! Funds raised will help provide new books in classrooms, offset costs of field trips and help with school-wide improvements. 

Ice cream is $3.00 per bowl and Italian Ice is $2.00 per cup.

Cash, credit card, and pre-payment via Givebacks (formerly MemberHub) are all accepted.

Please note this is not a drop-off event and that direct parental supervision is required throughout the evening. For the safety of all, students without direct parental supervision will not be permitted to participate. Former Bush Hill students are only welcome to attend if they are siblings of a current Bush Hill student and they are directly supervised by a parent. 

We hope to see you all Tonight!

Click to edit this placeholder text.

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

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

Ice Cream Social Friday

The Bush Hill PTA would like to invite you to join us for our annual ice cream social Friday, 9/8 from 6:30-8:00 PM in the Bush Hill cafeteria.  All are welcome and encouraged to attend!

We are very excited to kick off the 23-24 school year with this fun event! Funds raised will help provide new books in classrooms, offset costs of field trips and help with school-wide improvements. 

Ice cream is $3.00 per bowl and Italian Ice is $2.00 per cup.

Cash, credit card, and pre-payment via Givebacks (formerly MemberHub) are all accepted.  https://app.memberhub.gives/8fe346/Campaign/Details

Please note this is not a drop-off event and that direct parental supervision is required throughout the evening. For the safety of all, students without direct parental supervision will not be permitted to participate. Former Bush Hill students are only welcome to attend if they are siblings of a current Bush Hill student and they are directly supervised by a parent. 

We need lots of volunteers to help make this event a success! Please consider signing up here: 

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BA4AD2DA0FCC07-icecream1#/

We hope to see you all on Friday!

September Is National Hispanic Heritage Month Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of Americans whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America, starting on September 15 and ending on October 15. Social Emotional Learning (SEL)

Dear Parents and Guardians:

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) commits to supporting all students’ mental wellness and social and emotional learning (SEL). The School Board has approved a screener to review students’ skills and experiences in these areas. FCPS staff will use the screener to identify strengths and needs for students in grades 3-12. The screener provides information regarding students’ experiences and how staff can support their needs.

SEL skills include self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. The screener will review these skills, as well as students’ relationships, feelings of belonging, feelings about their school environment, and mood. These factors are critical to positive academic, social, and emotional success. All students in grades 3-12 will participate in the screener twice a year, in the fall and spring. Students reflect and report on their own skills and experiences. Screener data will only be accessible to teachers, administrators, and staff with legitimate educational interests. Results will be maintained in secure files and databases accessible only to these individuals. Screener results will be used with other data to inform practices for SEL skill development and mental wellness. Screener data will also help staff plan interventions for students with identified needs. Parents and guardians will receive an individualized report regarding their student’s screener results following each assessment window in SIS ParentVUE. School staff will be available to discuss results with families on planned support.

Schools will set specific dates for testing in each class. If you do not want your student to take part in the SEL screener, please complete the opt-out via your SIS ParentVUE account.

More information, including a short video about the SEL screener in FCPS and the screener questions, can be found on the SEL Screener webpage (https://www.fcps.edu/node/43892). Please contact your student's school counselor or the school's test coordinator with questions.

National Day of Service September 11 National Day of Service

With the upcoming 22nd anniversary of the tragedy of September 11, FCPS acknowledges the loss of life, the heroism of our first responders, and the resilience of our country. The September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance, also called Patriot Day, is a chance to reflect and act in service to others to honor those who were injured or killed in the terrorist attacks.

All FCPS students are encouraged to participate in service learning as it supports Portrait of a Graduate (POG) attributes and social and emotional learning (SEL) skills. Middle and high school students can learn more about service learning by logging into their Naviance account to access x2VOL. 

Get started this fall with two great opportunities: Public Lands Day (September 23) and Volunteer Fairfax’s VolunteerFest (October 21). Information on service projects can be found on the Volunteer Fairfax website.

 

Good Attendance Matters

Attending school on-time and regularly helps students feel better about school—and themselves. Start building this habit in preschool so they learn right away that going to school on time, every day is important. 

Chronic Absentees in Kindergarten had the lowest academic performance in first grade

Chronic absenteeism in kindergarten is associated with lower achievement in reading, math and general knowledge at the end of  first grade.  On average, test scores for children missing 18 or more days during the school year were 5% lower than the test scores of children who missed 6 or fewer days during the school year.

How to Encourage School Attendance in Elementary School

Parents have a huge influence on students when it comes to attendance.  Attending school regularly helps students feel better about school—and themselves. Start building this habit in preschool so they learn right away that going to school on time, every day is important. Good attendance will help students do well in high school, college, and at work.

During the school year:

• Maintain regular bed time and morning routines to help your child develop a habit of on-time attendance.  

• Talk to your child about why going to school everyday is important unless they are sick.

• Don’t let your child stay home unless she is truly sick.

• If your child seems reluctant to go to school, find out why and talk to teachers, school counselors, or other parents for advice on how to make him feel comfortable and excited about learning. Keep in mind complaints of a stomach ache or headache can be a sign of anxiety and not a reason to stay home.

• When possible, avoid medical appointments and extended trips when school is in session.

• Reach out to your child’s teacher or school counselor if you are experiencing tough times such as unstable housing, transportation or health problems.  

Parent Resource Center News

Registration opens one month before each webinar. Sign up for our New You Choose newsletter to get an email when registration opens. Registrants will be provided a link by email on the morning of the webinar. Please register below to request an interpreter in a preferred language.

September New School Year, New Strategies: How to Plan, Persist, and Achieve Academic Success This Year

Students' grades are typically lowest in the first quarter of the year because many find it hard to start the new year with confidence. It's crucial to help your child start back strong because it could set the tone for their best year yet! Join Author and Educator Ann Dolin, M.Ed,. to uncover strategies to instill greater confidence in your child at the start of the school year.

Webinar Highlights:

• How to increase your child's likelihood of earning good grades in the first quarter and beyond
• Strategies to establish a motivated, positive outlook towards school (for the whole family!)
• Proven techniques to effectively set up (and keep up with!) your family's weekday routines and busy schedules

Friday, September 8, 2023, 10-11:30 a.m. Share this event with others

Register online for New School Year, New Strategies: How to Plan, Persist, and Achieve Academic Success This Year

Meet the Author Series: The Self-Driven Child by Dr. William Stixrud

Are you working harder than your children to solve their problems? Do you need strategies to help children make their own decisions? Join Dr. William Stixrud while he discusses his book, The Self-Driven Child.

Webinar highlights include:

• Learning how to support the development of resilience in your child
• Understanding the elements of a healthy mental life
• Supporting your child's decision-making skills
• Learn how to help your child deal with stressful situations
• Learning how to make your child feel loved, trusted, supported, and capable

Friday, September 15, 2023, 10 - 11:15 a.m. Share this event with others

Register for Meet the Author Series: The Self-Driven Child by Dr. William Stixrud

Characteristics and Needs of Twice-Exceptional (2e) Learners

Twice-exceptional (2e) learners are students who have the ability to think, reason, and problem-solve at very high levels, and they also have special education needs. 2e Students’ learning and behavior profiles are often complex, with strengths and needs occurring on a continuum.

Join Nonye Oladimeji, FCPS AAP Twice Exceptional Specialist, to learn more about the characteristics of twice-exceptional learners.

Webinar Highlights:

• What does it mean to be twice-exceptional (2e)
• What are the characteristics of twice-exceptional learners
• How to identify and support twice-exceptional students

Tuesday, September 19, 2023, 10-11:30 a.m. Share this event with others.

Register for Characteristics and Needs of Twice-Exceptional (2e) Learners

Who's the Boss? 5 Ways for Families to Help Kids with Big Emotions

• Do you have a child who is bossy, and melts down over changes in plans or transitions?
• Acts like a sore loser when playing games?
• Wears the same clothes and eats the same foods?
• Likes to say, "That's not fair!" and won't stop following you until they prove a point?

Calm Parenting podcast founder Kirk Martin explains why all of these behaviors have the same root...and similar solutions.

Friday September 29, 2023, 10-11:30 a.m. Share this event with others.

Register for Who's the Boss? 5 Ways for Families to Help Kids with Big Emotions

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

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Labor Day Holiday

FCPS will be closed on Friday, September 1st and Monday, September 4th for the Labor Day Holiday.  Enjoy the 4-day weekend!

Kindergarten Color Of The Day

Starting Monday, August 28th Kindergarten will begin our science unit on colors. To get the kindergarteners excited about finding colors all around them, we would like your child to wear the color of the day if you have clothing with these colors at home.  We would also love school wide participation from grades 1-6 to join in on the fun. There is no need to go out and buy anything new. The schedule will be:

Monday -         28th                 Red

Tuesday -         29th                Orange

Wednesday-    30th                 Yellow

Thursday -       31st                Green

Tuesday-          5th                  Blue

Wednesday-    6th                  Purple

Thursday-        7th                 Favorite Color

Ice Cream Social

The Bush Hill PTA would like to invite you to join us for our annual ice cream social next Friday, 9/8 from 6:30-8:00pm in the Bush Hill cafeteria. 

We are very excited to kick off the 23-24 school year with this fun event! Funds raised will help provide new books in classrooms, offset costs of field trips and help with school-wide improvements. 

Ice cream is $3.00 per bowl and Italian Ice is $2.00 per cup.

Cash, credit card, and pre-payment via Givebacks (formerly MemberHub) are all accepted.

Please note this is not a drop-off event and that direct parental supervision is required throughout the evening. For the safety of all, students without direct parental supervision will not be permitted to participate. Former Bush Hill students are only welcome to attend if they are siblings of a current Bush Hill student and they are directly supervised by a parent. 

We need lots of volunteers to help make this event a success! Please consider signing up here: 

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BA4AD2DA0FCC07-icecream1#/

We hope to see you all next Friday!

SR&R

2023 Student Rights and Responsibilities 

FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities document (SR&R) explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses to enhance school safety and to create a fair, equitable, and supportive school environment. In late June, the School Board approved changes to the SR&R for the 2023-24 school year. Updates include a revision of dress code expectations, bystander expectations for students witnessing harmful or unsafe behaviors, bullying, and substance abuse responses. Read Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid’s letter to families regarding the SR&R. 

Parents/caregivers should talk to their child(ren) about expectations for this school year. Also, please log in to SIS ParentVUE and sign to acknowledge your review of the SR&R, or sign and return the signature sheet to your child’s school by Friday, September 29. 

Kiss N Ride Safety

For Kiss & Ride, our number one priority is to safely welcome kids to school and return them back to their families.  This requires families and staff to partner together to make Kiss & Ride safe for everyone.  

Display your Kiss & Ride Number

Families are required to display a Kiss & Ride Number in their vehicle to use Kiss & Ride.  The number is necessary to communicate that you will use the safety procedures outlined below and to maximize the flow of traffic in the Kiss and Ride line.  If you do not have your number, we will ask you to park and meet your child at the front office. Kiss & Ride Numbers can be picked up during our Open House or by contacting our Main Office. 

Stay in the Kiss & Ride Line

Vehicles are to follow the Kiss & Ride Traffic path.  Join the Kiss and Ride Line from Westchester St. in front of Bush Hill ES.  All families must enter the parking lot  by turning right off of Westchester St.  Pull forward as much as possible in the Drop Off / Pick -Up Zone.   Cars begin to line up in the parking lot next to Door #2. There are two lines. The line closest to Door #2 is reserved for families who have a student with a disability and for daycare busses. All other vehicles should be in the line to the left of the orange cones.

Load and Unload Safely

Adults should remain in the vehicle at all times.  Students should remain in the vehicle until the Drop Off/ Pick Up Zone.  Students should exit the passenger side of the vehicle. 

Keep the lining moving 

Be attentive; K&R is a hands-free cell phone zone.  Remain with your vehicle.  Be ready to load/unload in the Drop-Off Zone.  Keep “good-byes” brief.  If you need additional time to load/unload, please wait until you are at the first space in the K&R lane.   If your child is delayed in coming down, we may ask you to park and meet them at the front office.  Once the drop-off/pick–up periods begin the process usually takes no more than fifteen (15) minutes; this is not an unreasonable amount of time for the safety of our students.

Digital Resources Parent Consent

Parental Permission to Use Digital Resources

Some FCPS-approved digital resources require parent consent before they can be used by students. Find the list of resources which require consent on the Parent Consent webpage. This page also includes directions for providing permission. 

Each digital resource used in FCPS has had an instructional and technical review. Information about the educational technology tools approved for use within FCPS can be found in the online Digital Ecosystem Library.

Parents can find more information about FCPS-approved digital resources on the Digital Resources in FCPS webpage.

My School Bucks

Instructions for Setting up payment using MySchoolBucks:

Dear Parents/Guardians:

You may pay for Instrument Rental Fees, Library dues, Recorder fees, Field Trips, Scholastic News and open lunch accounts using My School Bucks starting August 21st.

My School Bucks (MSB) is a FCPS system for payments of student fees and activities. It is easy, secure, and there are no fees for parents. 

Follow these simple steps:

• Go to www.MySchoolBucks.com,
• Add a child by school & student ID or birthdate. You will receive a confirmation email.
• Go to the Bush Hill Store to find your product you would like to purchase.
• You may now pay your student fees using a credit or debit card, or e-check.
• A confirmation email will be sent to your child’s teacher to let them know you’ve paid.

 

School Safety Drills

Keeping students and staff safe is a priority for FCPS. Each school has an emergency preparedness plan to respond to incidents such as fires and tornadoes. Schools are required by state law to practice emergency drills, including lockdown drills, each year. Schools are also required to notify parents and guardians at least 24 hours before a school conducts a lockdown drill. However, schools are not required to give the specific date and time of the drill in advance. 

The first lockdown drill of the school year must take place within the first 20 days of school. Preschool and kindergarten students are exempt from practicing the first lockdown drill. 

Your child may come home and talk about their experience during the drill. We encourage you to talk with your child about the importance of being prepared for emergencies. Please review these frequently asked questions to support your students before and after school lockdown drills.

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

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

A Note From Mrs. Duffy

Dear Bush Hill Families,

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to you today to share my excitement about the wonderful first few days of school.

I was so impressed by the way our students, staff, and families came together to make this a smooth and positive start to the year. I saw students eager to learn and make new friends. I saw staff excited to teach and share their knowledge. And I saw staff working hard to make sure our school is a safe and welcoming place for everyone.

I am particularly proud of the way our students handled their first day of school. They were excited and nervous, but they were also excited to learn and make new friends. I saw them laughing and playing with each other, and I heard them asking questions and eager to learn.

I am also proud of our teachers. They have worked hard to prepare for the first day of school, and they are ready to provide our students with a high-quality education. I saw them greeting students at the door, smiling and welcoming them to our school. I heard them explaining the rules and procedures, and I saw them answering questions and helping students get settled in.

I am also grateful to our custodial team. They have worked tirelessly to make sure our school is clean, safe, and ready for students. All summer long, I saw them setting up classrooms, stocking supplies, and preparing for the first day. They really made sure our school shined!

Finally, I am so incredibly grateful to our amazing school community. This year, we have welcomed five Ambassador Teachers to our community. Our staff and families have gone out of their way to ensure that they feel at home here – by supplying furniture, books, and other things to make their apartments homey! We had several families who gave up time on a Sunday afternoon to pick up and move furniture. And we have had several families make connections with our Ambassador Teachers – helping them acclimate to Northern Virginia! I always say that the people make Bush Hill a special place, and this was a prime example of that coming to life.

I am confident that this will be a wonderful year for our school. We have a great team of students, teachers, and staff, and I am excited to see what we can accomplish together.

Thank you for your partnership in our school community.

Sincerely,

Mary E. Duffy

Principal

Family Picnic Friday

Join us this Friday, August 25th at 6 PM on the field to celebrate the first week of school!   Bring your own blanket and picnic dinner.   This is a wonderful opportunity to meet and spend time with our amazing BHES Community.    This event is weather permitting and will be canceled if it rains

Kiss N Ride

For Kiss & Ride, our number one priority is to safely welcome kids to school and return them back to their families.  This requires families and staff to partner together to make Kiss & Ride safe for everyone.  

Display your Kiss & Ride Number

Families are required to display a Kiss & Ride Number in their vehicle to use Kiss & Ride.  The number is necessary to communicate that you will use the safety procedures outlined below and to maximize the flow of traffic in the Kiss and Ride line.  If you do not have your number, we will ask you to park and meet your child at the front office. Kiss & Ride Numbers can be picked up during our Open House or by contacting our Main Office. 

Stay in the Kiss & Ride Line

Vehicles are to follow the Kiss & Ride Traffic path.  Join the Kiss and Ride Line from Westchester St. in front of Bush Hill ES.  All families must enter the parking lot  by turning right off of Westchester St.  Pull forward as much as possible in the Drop Off / Pick -Up Zone.   Cars begin to line up in the parking lot next to Door #2. There are two lines. The line closest to Door #2 is reserved for families who have a student with a disability and for daycare busses. All other vehicles should be in the line to the left of the orange cones.

Load and Unload Safely

Adults should remain in the vehicle at all times.  Students should remain in the vehicle until the Drop Off/ Pick Up Zone.  Students should exit the passenger side of the vehicle. 

Keep the lining moving 

Be attentive; K&R is a hands-free cell phone zone.  Remain with your vehicle.  Be ready to load/unload in the Drop-Off Zone.  Keep “good-byes” brief.  If you need additional time to load/unload, please wait until you are at the first space in the K&R lane.   If your child is delayed in coming down, we may ask you to park and meet them at the front office.  Once the drop-off/pick–up periods begin the process usually takes no more than fifteen (15) minutes; this is not an unreasonable amount of time for the safety of our students.

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

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

Congratulations EHS/Panther Grads

Bush Hill Elementary welcomed back our former Panthers and celebrated their accomplishments with a Grad Walk last Friday, June 9th.

June

June 13 - 6th Grade Promotion @ 6:30 p.m. at Edison HS

June 14 - Field Day

June 15 -- Last Day of PAC

June 16 - Last Day of School & Early Release @ 1:55 PM

SPIRIT DAY FRIDAY

VAY-CAY DAY

Wear your favorite vacay outfit or an outfit representative of somewhere you want to go!

 

Yearbook Update

Yearbook Interest Form

Please fill out the below Google Doc to enter into a raffle to purchase a Bush Hill ES yearbook by 10:00am on Wednesday, June 14th. A limited number of entries will be randomly selected in a raffle drawing and notified on Wednesday afternoon if you are one of our winners.

If you are selected, please have your child bring $15 to the main office (exact change please - cash or check payable to Bush Hill ES) and pick up their yearbooks on Thursday June 15th. 

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScj_u4fBuljo7_NqRgZ9sDkaCMiPR-uXGFxYJJk7UN7_Bwk1Q/viewform?usp=sf_link

If you have any questions, please contact the main office at 703-924-5600.

Thank you ,

Bush Hill Office Team

Tutor.Com

Take Tutor.com on the Road!

Tutor.com continues to be available to all students, at no cost, to continue summer learning. Visit the Summer Access Tutor.com webpage for more information on how to access the online service throughout the summer. 

FCPS

Summer Fun for All! Summer Camps and Adapted Recreation 

The Family Resource Center has recently published a list with dozens of summer camps including general camps, camps for students with a variety of needs, and camps for children of military personnel. They’ve also prepared a list of adapted resources, sorted by activity, that are inclusive for children and adults of various physical abilities. 

The Family Resource Center (FRC) provides resources and support for all families and school staff. They offer a free library, confidential consultations, and informational webinars. For more information, call 703-204-3941, email [email protected] or visit their website.

Reading Challenges for Youth and Adults Participate in Fairfax County Public Library's reading activities!    https://research.fairfaxcounty.gov/reading-challenges/summer-reading Order School Supplies For SY 23-24 Parent Liaison

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