Panther Press- January 31, 2025
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Dear Panther Families,At Mt Vernon Woods Elementary, we are committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment where every student can thrive. We believe that respect, kindness, and collaboration are the foundation of a strong school community. Through clear expectations, open communication, and a focus on student well-being, we ensure that all learners feel valued and empowered.
Together, we can create a positive space where students feel safe to explore, grow, and succeed. Thank you for being part of our caring school community. You belong here!
Sincerely,
Gina O'Neal, Principal
Christine Berry, Assistant Principal
Kristen Robinson, Assistant Principal
February 3- Family Food Market, 4:30pm
February 10- Early Release Monday, Students dismissed at 12:15pm
February 11- PTO Meeting, 4:30pm MVW Library
February 17- Presidents Day, No school
Resources for Immigrant FamiliesFairfax County Public Schools believes that public education is the cornerstone of a successful community. We will continue to do all that we can to ensure access to safe and vibrant learning spaces for all of our students, families, and staff. While some things may be changing, what’s unwavering is our commitment to ensuring that all students benefit from a world-class education in a safe, welcoming, and inclusive learning environment. We encourage our students to come to school every day.
Parents/caregivers, students, and staff have asked what FCPS is doing to ensure a safe learning experience for our community. Please see more information and resources here.
Proposed Budget Presented to School BoardSuperintendent Dr. Michelle Reid presented the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Proposed Budget at the School Board meeting on Thursday, January 23. Watch a video of the presentation.
As Dr. Reid noted in her January 24 letter to families, “The budget is fiscally responsible and invests in excellence — not just for FCPS, but for all of us in Fairfax County who want a strong community with successful young people, dedicated educators and support staff, and a thriving economy.”
The proposed budget reflects the needs of and FCPS’ commitments to Fairfax County students, families, and community members. It focuses on competitive compensation, including a 7.0% salary increase for all staff to recruit and retain our outstanding educators, administrators, and other school-based and operational staff dedicated to the success of our students; investing in students who require additional support; and continuing multiyear initiatives such as inclusive preschool and safety and security updates.
Learn more on the Budget webpage.
Kindergarten Registration: It’s as Easy as 1-2-3…There’s an easy five-step process for parents wanting to register their child for kindergarten:
- Determine eligibility.
- Identify your local school.
- Gather documents.
- Fill out forms.
- Schedule an appointment.
After the appointment at the school (the student and one guardian must be present), the student will be ready for [orientation and any other introductory events your school may host]. Read more about the registration process. For additional information, please contact Rich Freeman, our school registrar.
Office of the Ombuds: At Your Service!Ombuds staff engage with FCPS employees, families, and students to offer resources and improve the experience of each and every member of the FCPS community. They work as an independent confidential resource to help get answers to questions, resolve concerns, and hear complaints regarding FCPS matters.
Ombuds office staff members are available to help resolve disagreements between parents/caregivers and schools. They do not change or make decisions, policies, or regulations; take sides; or provide legal advice.
Anyone with concerns, questions, or complaints to share with the Office of the Ombuds may call 571-423-4014, email [email protected], or visit their webpage, where you may Submit a Question.
Application for the 2025 Student Representative to the School BoardThe School Board student representative represents the interests of Fairfax County Public Schools students. The student representative is not a member of the School Board but serves in a nonvoting, advisory capacity. Students currently in grades 9, 10, and 11 are eligible to apply.
Watch this video to learn about the student representative experience from the current representative, Megan Sawant.
Application Information and Deadlines:
To be considered for the election, students are required to provide:
- A written component, which is due Monday, February 24.
- A 30-second candidate video statement, which is due Wednesday, March 26. Candidates will be emailed a link to record their video on Monday, March 17.
Both application components are required to be considered for the election. Read more about the election process.
"Let's Talk" PlatformThis platform is an essential tool that allows anyone within our school community to report incidents of discrimination, harassment, or other concerning behaviors confidentially. More information about the platform, including how to access and use it, can be found at https://www.fcps.edu/submit-discrimination-and-harassment-report
4015 Fielding Street, Alexandria, VA 22309 | Main Phone: 703.619.2800
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