FCPS

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A Note from Principal Eck

Dear Spring Hill Families,

What a great week of events at Spring Hill. Earlier this week our third graders participated in Kids Business Day. Students set up their businesses from which staff and guests were able to buy goods or services. Our young entrepreneurs learned all about economics, marketing, and money. We ended the week with field day. What fun!!!

Over the next few weeks, we are excited for many year-end activities. Please join us on Tuesday, May 30th for our Band Concert. Additionally, we will have our 4th grade Orchestra Concert on Tuesday, June 6th and our 5th and 6th Orchestra on Wednesday, June 7th. We can't wait to see and hear all the hard work our students put in throughout the school year!

Reminder that this coming Monday, May 29 is Memorial Day holiday. We will not have school that day. Enjoy the long weekend with your family. 

Have a great weekend!

Kids Heart Challenge Run

We are excited to let you know that we will be doing the KHC/AHA (Kid’s Heart Challenge/American Heart Association) again this year on June 9th. As we all know, heart disease continues to be an issue and one of the best ways to help fight it is by exercising. We will do the same thing as last year and students will come out to the track by grade level and run as many laps as they can in 45 minutes. Of course, there will be a cold treat afterwards! All families are welcome and encouraged to come and support all the participants.

Registration is free for the event and all students who register will receive a wrist band. Both the SHES P.E. Department and AHA encourage you to donate if you feel comfortable doing so. All donations will go towards fighting heart disease and help us purchase new PE equipment. The Spring Hill Community was tremendous last year with supporting this event/cause.

 

Please click on the link below to Register.

https://www2.heart.org/site/TR?pg=company&fr_id=7556&company_id=390247

Thanks,

Mr. VanOrmer and Ms. Barker

PE Department

June 6 Author Visit

Author & illustrator Troy Cummings will be visiting Spring Hill on Tuesday, June 6. He is the author of picture books like Can I be Your Dog? and Is This Your Class Pet? as well as the Notebook of Doom series and many more. If you are interested in having him sign a book for your child, please order one from the Bookworm Central website or any other book seller. Books will be collected in the Library for Mr. Cummings to sign on June 6. Please email [email protected] with any questions. We look forward to having a great author visit!

Tutoring Grants Available for Families

The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) is accepting applications from parents for tutoring microgrants for their children through the K-12 Learning Acceleration Grants program. 

The program was created to help Virginia families address the pandemic's impact on student learning. It provides $1,500 grants to parents of school-age children for tutoring in specific subjects. Children from homes with family incomes at 300% or less of the federal poverty level may qualify for $3,000 grants. 

Available services include in-person, online, and hybrid tutoring provided one-on-one or in small group or large group settings. The first step in the process is to visit VDOE’s K-12 Learning Acceleration Grants page and create an application account.

Elementary Institute for The Arts

Students in all FCPS schools can enroll in the Elementary Institute for the Arts (EIFTA). EIFTA is a weekly arts enrichment program for students in rising 3rd through 6th grades and will be held during the month of July.  Students take classes in art, music, theatre, and dance every day.   

Transportation is provided from around the county. Tuition assistance is available for students who qualify. Check out the website for more information or email [email protected].

CyberPatriot Summer Cyber Camp

Chantilly Academy will host an AFA CyberCamp Monday, June 26, to Friday, June 30, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day. This camp is recommended for rising fifth through eighth graders of all skill levels interested in learning more about the importance of cybersecurity and gaining skill to protect themselves and others from cyber threats. Discounts are available for students eligible for free and reduced-price meals. Visit the camp website to learn more about registration, curriculum, and schedule.  

End-of-Year Assessment Score Reporting for Families

Family score reports for spring assessments continue to be distributed in different ways based on the test type. Most assessment reports are distributed centrally to families through SIS ParentVUE 

• SOL - expected week of 6/12 
• MI/RI - expected week of 6/20 
• iReady -  expected week of 6/20 (Gr. 3-6)

Family Nutrition Tip of the Week: Potassium

Potassium is an essential mineral that mainly helps to maintain normal levels of fluid inside of our cells. Getting too little potassium can increase blood pressure, deplete calcium in bones, and increase the risk of kidney stones. The typical American diet may not provide enough potassium, but you can increase your intake by eating the following high-potassium foods:

• Potatoes, butternut squash, swiss chard
• Lentils, beans, soybeans
• Bananas, watermelon, beets, avocado
• Yogurt and milk

A Message from PTO Panther Run Fun

Thank you to the Panther Run Committee - Meaghan Gay, Nichole Kahle, and Maggie Kuchner for bringing back this Spring Hill tradition. The weather was beautiful, the racers were fast, and the families had FUN! 

The Giving Tree

Did you know the Spring Hill PTO purchased new modular classroom furniture for grades 1st-3rd earlier this year? This style of furniture can easily shift into unique configurations that help provoke an innovative learning environment. The students and teachers are loving their new desks and chairs but we still need new furniture for grades 4th-6th! 

 

For the '22-'23 school year we had BIG plans to reach our goal of upgrading the remaining classrooms, grades 4-6th, this year but are falling just a bit short. As the year comes to a close, help us cross the finish line by checking out the Spring Hill Giving Tree with many ways to help on our PTO website!

Important Dates

 

 

May 29 - Memorial Day -School Holiday

May 30 - Band Concert

June 6 - 4th Grade Orchestra Concert

June 7 - 5th & 6th Grade Orchestra Concert

June 16 - Last Day of School (2 Hour Early Release)

8201 Lewinsville Road McLean, VA 22102 | Main Office: 703-506-3400
Attendance: 703-506-3434 | Web

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Field Day is Tomorrow May 26! 

We are looking forward to a great field day. Just a few reminders: 

Dress Students Appropriately

• Please make sure students come to school dressed for outdoor physical activities and water activities (athletic clothing, footwear).
• Students will be provided a field day t-shirt.
• Students should wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and perhaps a hat.
• Students should bring a water bottle marked with their name if possible.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to your child's teacher or any member of our admin team.

8201 Lewinsville Road McLean, VA 22102 | Main Office: 703-506-3400
Attendance: 703-506-3434 | Web

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A Note from Principal Eck

Dear Spring Hill Families,

Thank you to our wonderful parents who spent hours this morning weeding our flower beds and making our school look beautiful!

We ended our second week of SOL testing, and our 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th graders have been amazing. We are so proud of them and of all of our panthers for the learning that they continue to do this school year!

This Sunday is our PTO Panther Prowl. We are looking forward to seeing everyone. 

Have a great weekend!

Making the Transition to Middle School

Making the move from elementary school to middle school can be an exciting and unsettling time for a parent and child. In a recent episode of FCPS multilingual podcast, En Pocas Palabras, learn ways to ease the transition including:

• Understanding the developmental changes in your child.
• Getting to know middle school culture.
• Encouraging independence, but remaining available.
• Offering emotional support to your child.
• Reiterating your family values and expectations.
• Staying involved in your child’s school.

The podcast is available in Arabic, English, Korean, and Spanish. Listen and subscribe. 

Tutoring Grants Available for Families

The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) is accepting applications from parents for tutoring microgrants for their children through the K-12 Learning Acceleration Grants program. 

The program was created to help Virginia families address the pandemic's impact on student learning. It provides $1,500 grants to parents of school-age children for tutoring in specific subjects. Children from homes with family incomes at 300% or less of the federal poverty level may qualify for $3,000 grants. 

Available services include in-person, online, and hybrid tutoring provided one-on-one or in small group or large group settings. The first step in the process is to visit VDOE’s K-12 Learning Acceleration Grants page and create an application account.

Elementary Institute for The Arts

Students in all FCPS schools can enroll in the Elementary Institute for the Arts (EIFTA). EIFTA is a weekly arts enrichment program for students in rising 3rd through 6th grades and will be held during the month of July.  Students take classes in art, music, theatre, and dance every day.   

Transportation is provided from around the county. Tuition assistance is available for students who qualify. Check out the website for more information or email [email protected].

CyberPatriot Summer Cyber Camp

Chantilly Academy will host an AFA CyberCamp Monday, June 26, to Friday, June 30, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day. This camp is recommended for rising fifth through eighth graders of all skill levels interested in learning more about the importance of cybersecurity and gaining skill to protect themselves and others from cyber threats. Discounts are available for students eligible for free and reduced-price meals. Visit the camp website to learn more about registration, curriculum, and schedule.  

End-of-Year Assessment Score Reporting for Families

Family score reports for spring assessments continue to be distributed in different ways based on the test type. Most assessment reports are distributed centrally to families through SIS ParentVUE 

• SOL - expected week of 6/12 
• MI/RI - expected week of 6/20 
• iReady -  expected week of 6/20 (Gr. 3-6)

Last Chance! Lost and Found

The Lost and Found at Spring Hill has exploded!  We know you spend a lot of money on things for your children.  Please come and check it out. There are many, many jackets and sweatshirts.  The Lost and Found racks are located in the cafeteria. We will be donating the unclaimed items next week. Thank you!

Family Nutrition Tip of the Week: Feed Your Mitochondria

Your body has trillions of mitochondria which are like mini factories in each of our cells that turn the food we eat and the oxygen we breathe into energy.  Because they are essential to energy, focus, vitality, and metabolism, we should eat to support them. Here are several ways to do so:

• Drink bone broth
• Increase fiber intake with beans, lentils, whole grains, bananas, and vegetables
• Eat more fish, avocados, nuts, and seeds, which are all rich in fatty acids
• Avoid processed flours, sugars and refined sweeteners, and trans fats

A Message from PTO

LEGO League (FLL) STEM Team

Does your student love LEGOs? LEGO League for the 2023-2024 school year might be for you! 

LEGO League introduces science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) to children through fun, exciting hands-on learning. Team participants gain real-world problem-solving experiences through a guided, global robotics program, helping today’s students and teachers build a better future together. 

Teams are run by parent volunteers and would meet for one hour, once a week for 12 weeks. Sessions include working together as a team to complete guided challenges in preparation for an end of season festival where they would present all of their work. The cost is expected to be $200 per student. Please complete the linked survey below to help determine if there is enough interest to establish this program. Additional program details are available on the survey form. 

For parents who are interested, please fill out our survey 

https://forms.gle/oVvKDZubpmy4irxv9 by May 26, 2023. Once we get an idea of interest level, we will be holding a SHES information night on May 31, 2023 at 6:30PM for interested parents. Look forward to seeing everyone!

Please note this is a parent-run program and not part of Spring Hill PTO's Outside School Activities Program offering. 

Join the PTO Planning Committees for 2023-2024!

We have had an INCREDIBLE year with the PTO, with events like the Block Party, Book Fair, BINGO Night, after-school programs, Fun Fair and more. If you would like to continue to see these types of events and programs next year, then consider joining a PTO committee or the executive board. We have a variety of volunteer opportunities available to suit your schedule and area of interest. Here are just a few of the open positions: 

• PTO Executive Board - We are looking for a Jr. Treasurer and Jr. VP of Technology. A position on the Executive Board would be a year round commitment, including attending monthly meetings.
• Taste of Spring Hill (NEW!) - Taste of Spring Hill was a beloved event and tradition at SHES for many years, and we'd love to bring it back with a new vision. Let's celebrate the many cultures at Spring Hill with a team that can coordinate enrichment and awareness throughout the year, culminating in a Taste of Spring Hill community event. 
• Bids for Kids Auction Committee - We were so excited to bring back our in person live auction event this year, and are looking to build a larger committee to help plan the '23-'24 online and live event.
• Staff Appreciation - We are always looking for more volunteers to join this WONDERFUL committee. This is a great way to get to know our staff by helping plan events like the Chili Lunch, Valentine's Day luncheon, and the week long Staff Appreciation event in May. Many hands make light work!

If interested in any of these positions, please email Emalie Coen, [email protected].

 

SOL Schedule Important Dates

 

May 21 - Panther Fun Run

May 26 - Field Day

May 29 - Memorial Day -School Holiday

June 16 - Last Day of School (2 Hour Early Release)

8201 Lewinsville Road McLean, VA 22102 | Main Office: 703-506-3400
Attendance: 703-506-3434 | Web

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

A Note from Principal Eck

Dear Spring Hill Families,

Thank you to the Spring Hill PTO, families, and students for the many ways you have shown your appreciation of our staff this week. We are grateful for everything our amazing staff has done this year and are also grateful for such a wonderful community who shares their appreciation in some many ways.

Have a great weekend!

School Health Room Medication Pick-Up Reminder

The school health room is reminding parents and guardians that all medication stored in the health room must be picked up no later than the student dismissal time on the last day of school. Medication left in the health room after that time will be destroyed. It is school policy that medications must be picked up by the parent or guardian. Medication cannot be sent home with your student. However, with parent or guardian permission, a high school student may transport over-the-counter medications to and from the school health room. If your student will be enrolled in a summer program sponsored by Fairfax County Public Schools, the existing medication authorization form(s) may be used for the summer program, but you will need to pick up the medication on the last day of school and deliver the medication and completed forms to the summer learning site on the first day of the summer program. Please let the health room know if you would like a copy of the form(s).

 

SEL SCREENER REPORTS

Students in grades 3-12 took the Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener in March. The SEL Screener reports will be mailed directly to families next week. Thiswebsite includes both the Parent Report as well as a Family Guide to support you in understanding results and ideas for talking with your student about their results. Both are available in multiple languages. To learn more about SEL and how we support students at school and at home please see the FCPS SEL website. Please reach out to our school counselors, school psychologist or school social worker with any questions.

2023-24 Parent Input Form

One of the important things we do to get ready for the next school year is class placements. Multiple staff members (including current teachers, counselors, specialists and the administration) collaborate as a team to place students in an optimal learning situation each year. Creating balanced classrooms is a challenging task. We must take many considerations into account such as heterogeneous groupings, balancing academic abilities, and maximizing the support our resource staff for students. 

One piece of this process is providing parents the opportunity to provide input. We ask that you do not request specific teachers. This does not take into account the many variables to be considered such as grade-level changes or reductions in staff. It is far more valuable to share social/emotional or academic strengths and concerns. Be assured that, with or without a parent input form, each child’s strengths and needs are considered in this lengthy and complex process.

If you would like to share information that you believe would help us as we are making these placement decisions, please click on this link. Completion of this form is optional.

Please note that the deadline for submitting this information is Friday, May 26, 2023. 

Family Nutrition Tip of the Week: Go Low GI

The Glycemic Index (GI) is a rating system for foods with carbohydrates that indicates how quickly a food affects your blood sugar level. It is beneficial to consume lower glycemic foods (GI rating of 55 or lower) to lower your risk of type II diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. Below are examples of low, medium, and high GI foods.

• Low: non-starchy vegetables, beans, lentils, apples, berries, pears, nuts, avocado, whole grain pasta, quinoa
• Medium: sweet potatoes, corn, pineapple, raisins, pumpkin, Jasmine rice
• High: white pasta, white bread, white potatoes, pretzels, pastries, refined cereals, crackers, instant oatmeal

Attention Cooper Parents of Rising 7th Graders

You’re invited to the final PTO meeting of the year Cooper MS, on Wednesday, May 17th, from 9-10:30 AM. Join us in the cafeteria for light refreshments, a current student panel discussion, Q&A with admin, and tours of the school. The PTO looks forward to joining admin and staff in welcoming you to Cooper!

A Message from PTO

PANTHER PROWL

Put on your favorite sneakers, and help welcome back a favorite Spring Hill Tradition, the Annual Panther Prowl on Sunday, May 21st! This year we are partnering with Potomac River Running for event registration and official timing. We will have prizes for each grade winner, and for our adult race winners too. 

What we need from you!

• Sign up and race! Registration site is now LIVE.
• Volunteer! There are all types of volunteer opportunities (student and adult!) on the morning of the race, and you can volunteer and still participate in the event. Click here to volunteer today!

Spring Hill Field Day - Volunteers Needed

Get ready for a day of FUN with Field Day! This year's event will be on Friday, May 26th. Our Spring Hill PE teachers have put together a day of classic field day games for our students, and we need parent volunteers to help run each station. No experience necessary - we will provide game instructions before the events start.

Morning - Grades 3 (Nalley, Chang), 4-6th

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F4EAEA722A0F8C25-20231

Afternoon - Grades K-3 (Fishbone, Michaels, Boswell, and Margeson)

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F4EAEA722A0F8C25-2023

The Giving Tree

Did you know the Spring Hill PTO purchased new modular classroom furniture for grades 1st-3rd earlier this year? This style of furniture can easily shift into unique configurations that help provoke an innovative learning environment. The students and teachers are loving their new desks and chairs but we still need new furniture for grades 4th-6th! 

 

For the '22-'23 school year we had BIG plans to reach our goal of upgrading the remaining classrooms, grades 4-6th, this year but are falling just a bit short. Help us cross the finish line by checking out the Spring Hill Giving Tree with many ways to help on our PTO website!

Testing Updates Grades 3-6: 

• IReady (Reading/Math):April 11-May 19. Click here for more information regarding the iReady.
• Spring SOL's (May 1 - May 26). Click here for more information.. 

SOL Schedule Important Dates

 

May 21 - Panther Fun Run

May 26-    Field Day

May 29 - School Holiday

June 16 - Last Day of School (2 Hour Early Release)

8201 Lewinsville Road McLean, VA 22102 | Main Office: 703-506-3400
Attendance: 703-506-3434 | Web

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

A Note from Principal Eck

Dear Spring Hill Families,

Next week is Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week and our PTO has many fabulous activities planned for our staff. Please also take a moment to share your appreciation of our staff by submitting an FCPS Cares message. 

May also includes the SOL Testing time. Our 5th grade students took their reading SOL earlier this week.  If you have a child in 3rd-6th grade, please look closely at the SOL Test Schedule below. Please make sure that your children bring their fully charged laptop each day. It’s important that students are at school on time and well rested. Student laptops are used to take the SOL testing, which will begin each day at 9:30. 

Have a great weekend!

National School Nurse Day

National School Nurse Day is Wednesday, May 10, 2023. It is a day to recognize the many contributions that school nurses make to student health and learning.  

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) appreciates the role of School Public Health Nurses (PHNs) and our School Health Aide for their contribution to the health and welfare of all our students. Professional school nurses support the needs of students through their delivery of healthcare, contributions to local school communities, and promotion of safety, prevention, and wellness throughout the year. They are advocates who bridge healthcare and education by supporting student health and readiness to learn. School nurses and aides are essential to our community and work tirelessly to make a positive impact in the lives of their students.  

Please join us in thanking our SHA, Lema Keyar and our SHN, Cat Romer, for their hard work and dedication to Spring Hill Elementary.

Counselor Corner for May

As we are in the midst of SOL testing and end of year assessments, please share these helpful tips with your students, as needed, to ease some of the feelings of stress and anxiety associated with testing.

2023-24 Parent Input Form

One of the important things we do to get ready for the next school year is class placements. Multiple staff members (including current teachers, counselors, specialists and the administration) collaborate as a team to place students in an optimal learning situation each year. Creating balanced classrooms is a challenging task. We must take many considerations into account such as heterogeneous groupings, balancing academic abilities, and maximizing the support our resource staff for students. 

One piece of this process is providing parents the opportunity to provide input. We ask that you do not request specific teachers. This does not take into account the many variables to be considered such as grade-level changes or reductions in staff. It is far more valuable to share social/emotional or academic strengths and concerns. Be assured that, with or without a parent input form, each child’s strengths and needs are considered in this lengthy and complex process.

If you would like to share information that you believe would help us as we are making these placement decisions, please click on this link. Completion of this form is optional.

Please note that the deadline for submitting this information is Friday, May 26, 2023. 

Science Olympiad Parent Volunteers Needed

The Virginia Science Olympiad (VASO) is a great opportunity for kids passionate about science to team up with their schoolmates and compete against great minds from schools all across VA. The three VASO divisions include Division A - Grades 3 through 5, Division B - Grades 5 through 8 and Division C - Grades 9 through 12. For Elementary school, the relevant divisions are A and B. 

Currently, we are soliciting interest from parents for participation in Division A (Grades 3-5). You can find out more details about the type of events for Division A here https://www.virginiaso.org/_files/ugd/b8eaea_e90eeaac5c714a07b77b115a790e7ed6.pdf

 

SHES can have up to 3 teams and each team can have up to 15 kids. Being a primarily parent led effort, we need parent coaches and volunteers to support the preparatory and participatory needs of the Division A team(s). We will be holding a SHES information night on May 10, 2023, at 6:30 PM for interested parents. Look forward to seeing everyone! 

Attention 6th Grade Parents

We are so excited to celebrate our 6th graders with the traditional Spring Hill 6th Grade-only all-day party on June 14, 2023.  It’s the day they’ve been waiting for all year - teachers and administrators in the Dunk Tank, an obstacle course, water balloons, a DJ, guessing “who’s who” in the baby photo contest, a picnic lunch and more!  Every student will need a ticket.  For more information and to purchase a ticket (which includes a “Class of 2023” t-shirt), visit the 6th Grade Party website.

Family Nutrition Tip of the Week: Choose Healthier Oils

Oils are included in most recipes, so it's important to choose healthy oils when cooking. Healthier cooking oils are generally unrefined, cold-pressed, and low in Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (PUFAs) which become toxic when heated. Below is a quick guide to healthy oil choices.

• Best oils for all-purpose and heating: unrefined olive, avocado, coconut, macadamia nut, peanut, and almond
• Best oils for cold recipes: all oils listed above, plus unrefined flax, walnut, artisanal grapeseed, and sesame
• Oils to avoid: canola, corn, cottonseed, soy, sunflower, safflower, rice bran, refined palm, and hydrogenated oils

Parent Resource Center Equitable Access to Literacy: The Keys to Literacy Success

The Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) Equitable Access to Literacy (EAL) Plan outlines the division’s continuous improvement efforts to align practices with science-based reading research.

We are excited to share webinars for families to learn about the shifts that FCPS is making to improve literacy instruction.

Webinar Highlights:

• What is the Science of Reading?
• What is the Virginia Literacy Act?
• How is the Equitable Access to Literacy Plan being implemented?
• Why is this so important for my student’s reading life?

Presented by Tara Hewan, Carrie Leestma, and Natasha Saunders.

Thursday, May 11 2023, 6:30-8 p.m. - Elementary: Register for Equitable Access to Literacy: The Keys to Literacy Success

Wednesday, May 17, 2023, 6:30-8 p.m. - Secondary: Register for Equitable Access to Literacy: The Keys to Literacy Success 

Portrait of a Graduate: The Keys to Success in Life: A Webinar for Families

In this session, families and caregivers will learn about the what, the why, and the how of the FCPS Portrait of a Graduate (POG) attributes and skills.

Participants will walk away with tangible strategies for supporting their children in owning and growing these transferable 21st-century skills.

• What are Portrait of a Graduate Skills?
• Why are these skills important in school and in life?
• What is a Portrait of a Graduate Presentation of Learning (POG POL)? Why is POG POL an effective measurement tool?
• How can you support at home?

Join Nishi Langhorne, Manager of Learning Innovations, FCPS Instructional Services for this important webinar.

May 12, 2023  10-11:30 a,m.

Register for Portrait of a Graduate: The Keys to Success in Life: A Webinar for Families

A Message from PTO

PANTHER PROWL

Put on your favorite sneakers, and help welcome back a favorite Spring Hill Tradition, the Annual Panther Prowl on Sunday, May 21st! This year we are partnering with Potomac River Running for event registration and official timing. We will have prizes for each grade winner, and for our adult race winners too. Register by May 7th to receive a FREE T-shirt. Shirts will not be available after that date or at the event.

What we need from you!

• Sign up and race! Registration site will be LIVE this week. Be sure to follow us on Instagram (@springhillelem) for the big announcement! Early Registration by May 7th comes with a free t-shirt.
• Volunteer!There are all types of volunteer opportunities (student and adult!) on the morning of the race, and you can volunteer and still participate in the event. Click here to volunteer today!

Spring Hill Field Day - Volunteers Needed

Get ready for a day of FUN with Field Day! This year's event will be on Friday, May 26th. Our Spring Hill PE teachers have put together a day of classic field day games for our students, and we need parent volunteers to help run each station. No experience necessary - we will provide game instructions before the events start.

Morning - Grades 3 (Nalley, Chang), 4-6th

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F4EAEA722A0F8C25-20231

Afternoon - Grades K-3 (Fishbone, Michaels, Boswell, and Margeson)

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F4EAEA722A0F8C25-2023

The Giving Tree

Did you know the Spring Hill PTO purchased new modular classroom furniture for grades 1st-3rd earlier this year? This style of furniture can easily shift into unique configurations that help provoke an innovative learning environment. The students and teachers are loving their new desks and chairs but we still need new furniture for grades 4th-6th! 

 

For the '22-'23 school year we had BIG plans to reach our goal of upgrading the remaining classrooms, grades 4-6th, this year but are falling just a bit short. Help us cross the finish line by checking out the Spring Hill Giving Tree with many ways to help on our PTO website!

Testing Updates Grades 3-6: 

• IReady (Reading/Math):April 11-May 19. Click here for more information regarding the iReady.
• Spring SOL's (May 1 - May 26). Click here for more information.. 

SOL Schedule Important Dates

May 4 - SOL Testing Begins

May 21 - Panther Fun Run

May 26-    Field Day

May 29 - School Holiday

8201 Lewinsville Road McLean, VA 22102 | Main Office: 703-506-3400
Attendance: 703-506-3434 | Web

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

A Note from Principal Eck

SHES Chorus Concert - April 26

Dear Spring Hill Families,

We are into the last quarter of the school year and are beginning our planning for summer programming and next year. 

One of the important things we do to get ready for the next school year is class placements. Multiple staff members (including current teachers, counselors, specialists and the administration) collaborate as a team to place students in an optimal learning situation each year. Creating balanced classrooms is a challenging task. We must take many considerations into account such as heterogeneous groupings, balancing academic abilities, and maximizing the support our resource staff for students. 

One piece of this process is providing parents the opportunity to provide input. We ask that you do not request specific teachers. This does not take into account the many variables to be considered such as grade-level changes or reductions in staff. It is far more valuable to share social/emotional or academic strengths and concerns. Be assured that, with or without a parent input form, each child’s strengths and needs are considered in this lengthy and complex process.

If you would like to share information that you believe would help us as we are making these placement decisions, please click on this link. Completion of this form is optional.

Please note that the deadline for submitting this information is Friday, May 26, 2023. 

Have a great weekend!

Kent Gardens Capacity Challenges:  Boundary Scoping

FCPS is exploring options to address capacity challenges at Kent Gardens Elementary School. One option being considered is a boundary change. The first step in the process is to gather initial feedback about a potential boundary scope, including which elementary schools may be included. We encourage you to share your feedback on potential boundary scope. Feedback form is open through May 10, 2023.  Click on the QR Code for the feedback form.

 

Community Conversation: School Safety and Security

FCPS will host a community conversation to discuss our approach to safety and security, and the work we do every day to keep our schools safe. Join us Monday, May 8, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at South Lakes High School. Look for registration information in next week’s newsletter. 

FCPS staff and experts will review our risk assessment processes, the physical measures we already have in place to protect our students and staff, pilot programs to detect vaping, and how we communicate and collaborate with our partners when there is an incident at our schools.

Lost and Found

The Lost and Found at Spring Hill has been growing. We know you spend a lot of money on things for your children.  Please come and check it out. There are many, many jackets and sweatshirts.  The Lost and Found racks are located in the cafeteria. We will be donating the unclaimed items soon. Thank you!

Mark your Calendar!

The Panther fun run is scheduled for Sunday, May 21. More information to come. We look forward to seeing you there. 

Parent Resource Center Equitable Access to Literacy: The Keys to Literacy Success

The Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) Equitable Access to Literacy (EAL) Plan outlines the division’s continuous improvement efforts to align practices with science-based reading research.

We are excited to share webinars for families to learn about the shifts that FCPS is making to improve literacy instruction.

Webinar Highlights:

• What is the Science of Reading?
• What is the Virginia Literacy Act?
• How is the Equitable Access to Literacy Plan being implemented?
• Why is this so important for my student’s reading life?

Presented by Tara Hewan, Carrie Leestma, and Natasha Saunders.

Thursday, May 11 2023, 6:30-8 p.m. - Elementary: Register for Equitable Access to Literacy: The Keys to Literacy Success

Wednesday, May 17, 2023, 6:30-8 p.m. - Secondary: Register for Equitable Access to Literacy: The Keys to Literacy Success 

Portrait of a Graduate: The Keys to Success in Life: A Webinar for Families

In this session, families and caregivers will learn about the what, the why, and the how of the FCPS Portrait of a Graduate (POG) attributes and skills.

Participants will walk away with tangible strategies for supporting their children in owning and growing these transferable 21st-century skills.

• What are Portrait of a Graduate Skills?
• Why are these skills important in school and in life?
• What is a Portrait of a Graduate Presentation of Learning (POG POL)? Why is POG POL an effective measurement tool?
• How can you support at home?

Join Nishi Langhorne, Manager of Learning Innovations, FCPS Instructional Services for this important webinar.

May 12, 2023  10-11:30 a,m.

Register for Portrait of a Graduate: The Keys to Success in Life: A Webinar for Families

Testing Updates Grades 3-6: 

• IReady (Reading/Math):April 11-May 19. Click here for more information regarding the iReady.
• Spring SOL's (May 1 - May 26). Click here for more information.. 

SOL Schedule Important Dates

May 4 - SOL Testing Begins

May 21 - Panther Fun Run

May 26-    Field Day

May 29 - School Holiday

8201 Lewinsville Road McLean, VA 22102 | Main Office: 703-506-3400
Attendance: 703-506-3434 | Web

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

A Note from Principal Eck

Dear Spring Hill Families,

We had a fun start to our day celebrating Earth Day. Thanks Ms. Petzold and Ms. DeVylder for making this week possible. 

Don’t forget, there is no school tomorrow, Friday, April 21.  We hope you will enjoy this extended time with your family and friends. 

Have a great weekend!

Spring Hill Science Olympiad Team

Spring Hill Science Olympiad Team had the best performance this past year in its entire history! The team came 7th (out of 24 teams) in the States Championship Division B competition in Charlottesville which included the best elementary and middle schools in the state of Virginia. Spring Hill was the 2nd best elementary school in the State!!! In the regional qualification round, Spring Hill came in 2nd (out of 30 teams) and placed 5th in the Invitational Tournament.

The following were the noteworthy performances:

Ethan Chen (5th grade) - 1st, 4th, 4th place (3 medals)

Zohran Valliani (6th grade) - 1st, 4th, 5th place (3 medals)

Andrew Du (6th grade) - 3rd, 4th, 5th (3 medals)

Bryan Tan (6th grade) - 1st, 3rd (2 medals)

Sam Hernandez (5th grade) - 1st (1 medal)

Thomas Grabowicz (5th grade) - 4th (1 medal)

Armaan Ailani (5th grade) - 5th (1 medal)

Sean Kim (6th grade) - 5th (1 medal)

The Science Olympiad is a highly competitive academic event that tests the knowledge and skills of students in various scientific disciplines. It is generally seen as a platform for middle and high school students to showcase their scientific abilities. This year's team was coached by Abbas Valliani and supported by Spring Hill Alumni who are current at Thomas Jefferson High School (Aahil, Arya, and Teju).

The impact of this victory was felt not just by the students and their families but by the entire community. The principal and our sponsor Ms. Roman, and all the parent volunteers who prepared the kids for this competition are the heroes - the students may not have won the top prize but they already made a mark by achieving something far greater!

Lost and Found

The Lost and Found at Spring Hill has been growing. We know you spend a lot of money on things for your children.  Please come and check it out. There are many, many jackets and sweatshirts.  The Lost and Found racks are located in the cafeteria. We will be donating the unclaimed items soon. Thank you!

April is Autism Acceptance Month. One in 44 children is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder in the United States, according to the CDC. Our schools and staff play a vital role in creating and ensuring inclusive environments that accommodate and affirm all students.

Mark your Calendar!

The Panther fun run is scheduled for Sunday, May 21. More information to come. We look forward to seeing you there. 

Longfellow Spring Open House Family Nutrition Tip of the Week: Chew on Chickpeas

Chickpeas are inexpensive, versatile, and good for you. These legumes (a.k.a. garbanzo beans) are a great source of plant protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Here are some ideas to make them a regular part of your diet.

• Roast with spices like cumin and chili powder and serve over rice with vegetables
• Add to any soup or stew (pairs particularly well with tomato-based ones)
• Enjoy homemade or store-bought hummus with celery
• Sauté with vegetables, herbs like cilantro or parsley, and quinoa

KGES Capacity Challenges Community Meeting

The public is invited to a community meeting on April 26, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at McLean High School to address capacity challenges at Kent Gardens Elementary School. This meeting will be held in the school cafeteria, and will explore options including boundary scope changes. The public will have the opportunity to provide input about these options as well as the schools and communities that could be involved in the boundary scope. 

The amendment to the FY 2024-28 CIP adopted by the School Board in February enables staff to begin the community engagement identified in School Board Policy 8130 and Regulation 8130, for Local School Boundaries and Program Assignments. More information on the process is available in Regulation 8130.  

FCPS staff will present an option for the boundary scope to the school board for approval. There is currently no designated date for this action.

The next opportunity for public input on this process will be in the fall. Community meetings will be held for all schools and communities identified in the boundary scope.

Information to address questions and feedback has been posted to the Kent Gardens Capacity Challenges Website. While there, sign up for the project mailing list. Communication about this ongoing work will also be shared by the school and your school board representative, Elaine Tholen.

2023 Summer Camp Opportunity

Hughes VIP Summer Camp

The VIP Camp will be held at Hughes Middle School this summer for rising 7th and 8th graders attending the following middle schools:  Carson, Herndon, Cooper, Hughes & Longfellow Middle Schools.  

Program Details: Wednesday, June 28 - Thursday, July 27 (no camp on Monday, July 3 and Tuesday, July 4)

Mondays - Fridays, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM (site opens at 8 am for drop-offs)

Bus transportation will be available to and from Longfellow.  

VIP camp costs $100 to attend.  Some scholarships are available in cases of financial hardship; reach out to your school's After-School Specialist for more information.  Payment is accepted through MySchoolBucks. 

 Payments are due to MySchoolBucks by June 2, 2023.  

Questions about VIP Camp?   Contact your school's After-School Specialist:

Hector Martinez [email protected]  

 

Click here for the camp flyer:

 

 Registration:  https://forms.gle/W9fzURTaoN2FPijo9

Testing Updates Grades 3-6: 

• IReady (Reading/Math):April 11-May 19. Click here for more information regarding the iReady.
• Spring SOL's (May 1 - May 26). Click here for more information.. 

SOL Schedule Important Dates

 

April 21 - School Holiday

April 26- Chorus Concert (6:30pm)

May 21 - Panther Fun Run

May 26-    Field Day

8201 Lewinsville Road McLean, VA 22102 | Main Office: 703-506-3400
Attendance: 703-506-3434 | Web

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

A Note from Principal Eck

Dear Spring Hill Families,

We hope this finds you well and that you had a wonderful spring break as a family.  We had a great short week back as we wrapped up the third quarter.  It is hard to believe that we are headed into the last quarter of the year!  The end of the year always rolls in quickly and is busy with learning, assessment, and lots of fun activities.  However, when we take a moment to turn around and look back at the year so far, we can see how much we have accomplished as a school community and how much growth our students have made.  They should be so proud, as should our staff and families!  We are looking forward to a strong last nine weeks of school!

Yesterday, we loved welcoming our future kindergarten Panthers and their families for our kindergarten orientation!  We are already bubbling with excitement for our newest students to join us in the fall.  If you or a neighbor has a rising kindergartener, don't forget to contact the school office to register now!

Have a great weekend!

Spring Hill Elementary Students Showcase their Artwork

Walls around the Dulles Airport TSA precheck security checkpoint are more colorful than ever. That is partly thanks students at Spring Hill Elementary School. 

The Youth Art Walk is a joint initiative between The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority Office of Diversity, Inclusion and Social Impact, Fairfax County Public Schools, and the McLean Project for the Arts. It highlights more than two dozen pieces of art created by local public, and private students of all ages.

To read more about this, click here.

Get Caught Reading Forms

 

Due to the short week, Get Caught Reading forms may still be handed in on Monday, April 17. We love all the pictures that have come in so far and hope everyone has been reading some good books!

Counselor's Corner

There are two core beliefs that Spring Hill School Counselors, Dr. Trigiani and Ms. Rinker, instill in the students.  The first is that all feelings are valid.  Even if we as the listener or caregiver do not understand the reason behind the feelings or that it is not as big of a deal as it seems for the child, it is important to still validate their feelings.  This is not the same as enabling though.  Validating feelings simply lets them know that you hear and see they are having a tough time.  The second belief is that all feelings are okay.  Some feelings such as anger, worry, sadness, may be harder for children to experience than others, but it is okay to feel that way.  They are natural feelings we all have from time to time.  The problem becomes when the strong feelings take control and problematic or hurtful behaviors surface.  These behaviors are commonly observed when a student is in an Escalation Cycle.  It can be difficult for both the child and the caregiver when the child is in the cycle.  Attempts at trying to help the child often add to the escalation and/or cause the caregiver to show strong reactions as well.  The question becomes, “How does one help a child who is experiencing not only strong emotions, but strong reactions?” 

 

Aly Bothman, Occupational Therapist at Oak Tree Developmental Center in Chicago, Illinois, helps answer that question through this article from the center’s blog.  Bothman also provides ideas to help your child regulate their emotions and behaviors. According to Bothman, the escalation cycle is a tool that can help us understand how our emotions work during times of big upsets. As caregivers, it can help us think about different strategies that are best to use during these different phases of an escalation.  You can learn more about the specific stages of the escalation cycle, including signs and suggestions here.   

Bothman further explains when we are very upset, our brains are not thinking clearly and are not able to problem-solve effectively. Trying to “talk it out” or reason with a child (or anyone!) who is at the peak of an escalation is typically counterproductive and only adds fuel to the fire. Think about where your child is on the escalation cycle during an emotional escalation. Choose your reaction to their behavior carefully based on the phase of the cycle. For example, if I notice my child is starting to show some small signs of frustration/escalation, I might intervene by taking a few deep breaths, offering two calming activity choices, or redirecting them to take a break and get some exercise outside.  Oftentimes the best and most efficient route to returning to the baseline phase is to simply take a break. Think about reducing the demands being placed on your child (stop asking questions, offering solutions, scolding, reduce noise/stimulation in the environment, etc.) so their nervous system can start winding down and they can access their rational thinking and problem-solving parts of their brain again. Provide wait time before talking about what happened until you are sure they are back at baseline and in a calm and relaxed state - that will be the best time to debrief and brainstorm different choices for future emotionally charged events.

April is Earth Month

We are calling on all of Spring Hill’s Panthers to help celebrate and care for Mother Earth this year!  April 22 is the official day we observe Earth Day, but we will be spending the week leading up to Earth Day doing our part to become better environmental stewards.  Please use the following Spirit Week suggestions to guide and encourage discussions about what each of us can do to help protect our beautiful planet.  Remember, if we all take little steps forward we can make a big difference.

 

Monday, April 17 - Saving Water - Wear blue

• Did you bring your reusable water bottle or turn off the water while brushing your teeth?  What else can we do at school to save water?

Tuesday, April 18 - Beautification Day - Wear orange

• This is our day to make Spring Hill look stunning!  Go out with your class and have your students pick up the trash they see.  What can we do to minimize trash?

Wednesday, April 19 - My Earth Day Promise - Wear purple

• Students will all fill out a promise (paper will be provided) they can make to Mother Earth to help protect her and reduce their carbon footprint
• I promise to reduce my carbon footprint by… 
• I promise to help the planet by…

Thursday, April 20 - Walk to School Day - Wear green

• Students who are able will meet prior to school are welcome to meet teachers at Hamlet Park, located near the corner of Macbeth St and Falstaff Rd in the McLean Hamlet neighborhood by 8:30am. From there, they will complete the short walk to school together.
• If many of your students are unable to attend, consider walking a lap around the school or track.  
• Walking is a great way to reduce our carbon footprint and stay healthy!
• All students will receive an Earth Day bracelet whether they walked to school or not. 

Update Your Health Care Information

Please update the school or the Public Health Nurse of any medical conditions that may impact your student’s school day.

• Spring weather is here. With that comes spring allergies. Allergy symptoms can be difficult to differentiate between cold, flu and COVID 19 symptoms. It is important to have seasonal allergies documented as a health condition so that we know why they are symptomatic.
• PLEASE let us know if your child has a food allergy. Our goal is to provide a safe environment for you student’s education. Knowledge of food allergy is a pivotal way to help us achieve this.

Feedback about Teaching and Learning

The FCPS Office of Research and Strategic Improvement (ORSI) would like to gather feedback about teaching and learning efforts as part of an ongoing study related to improvements following the pandemic.  This includes the use of the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER III) funding to address the safe operation of schools and impacts related to Covid-19.

Surveys will be administered to teachers, families, and students in grades 4-12. Students will receive an email link in their fcpsschools.net account while parents will receive a link through the email of the enrolling parent between the dates of April 17th through May 1st.   Family surveys will be available in translated versions. 

Thank you for your participation and support of this survey to inform FCPS about its teaching and learning efforts to best meet the needs of our students.

Yearbook Sales - LAST CALL

Don’t miss your opportunity to have your panther memories for years to come.  Please be aware we will not be ordering extra yearbooks, so if you want one, order now! 

Yearbook Ordering link:  https://ybpay.lifetouch.com/

Yearbook ID Code: 12616523

Direct link: https://ybpay.lifetouch.com/Order/LookupJob?jobNumber=12616523

Family Nutrition Tip of the Week: Brain Power Breakfast

Start your day right by fueling your brain to optimize energy, concentration, and memory. These breakfast ideas provide a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats to keep your brain sharp.

• Oatmeal made with old fashioned oats topped with bananas and nuts
• Whole eggs fried, scrambled, hard-boiled, or as an omelette, or toast with avocado topped with an egg
• Smoothie made with berries, kale or spinach, any type of milk, ice cubes, and honey
• Low-sugar yogurt parfait layered with low-sugar granola, cereal, or oats and berries

KGES Capacity Challenges Community Meeting

The public is invited to a community meeting on April 26, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at McLean High School to address capacity challenges at Kent Gardens Elementary School. This meeting will be held in the school cafeteria, and will explore options including boundary scope changes. The public will have the opportunity to provide input about these options as well as the schools and communities that could be involved in the boundary scope. 

The amendment to the FY 2024-28 CIP adopted by the School Board in February enables staff to begin the community engagement identified in School Board Policy 8130 and Regulation 8130, for Local School Boundaries and Program Assignments. More information on the process is available in Regulation 8130.  

FCPS staff will present an option for the boundary scope to the school board for approval. There is currently no designated date for this action.

The next opportunity for public input on this process will be in the fall. Community meetings will be held for all schools and communities identified in the boundary scope.

Information to address questions and feedback has been posted to the Kent Gardens Capacity Challenges Website. While there, sign up for the project mailing list. Communication about this ongoing work will also be shared by the school and your school board representative, Elaine Tholen.

2023 Summer Camp Opportunity

Hughes VIP Summer Camp

The VIP Camp will be held at Hughes Middle School this summer for rising 7th and 8th graders attending the following middle schools:  Carson, Herndon, Cooper, Hughes & Longfellow Middle Schools.  

Program Details: Wednesday, June 28 - Thursday, July 27 (no camp on Monday, July 3 and Tuesday, July 4)

Mondays - Fridays, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM (site opens at 8 am for drop-offs)

Bus transportation will be available to and from Longfellow.  

VIP camp costs $100 to attend.  Some scholarships are available in cases of financial hardship; reach out to your school's After-School Specialist for more information.  Payment is accepted through MySchoolBucks. 

 Payments are due to MySchoolBucks by June 2, 2023.  

Questions about VIP Camp?   Contact your school's After-School Specialist:

Hector Martinez [email protected]  

 

Click here for the camp flyer:

 

 Registration:  https://forms.gle/W9fzURTaoN2FPijo9

Testing Updates Grades 3-6: 

• IReady (Reading/Math):April 11-May 19. Click here for more information regarding the iReady.
• Spring SOL's (May 1 - May 26). Click here for more information.. 

SOL Schedule Important Dates

 

April 21 - School Holiday

April 16-  Chorus Concert (6:30pm)

May 26-    Field Day

8201 Lewinsville Road McLean, VA 22102 | Main Office: 703-506-3400
Attendance: 703-506-3434 | Web

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

A Note from Principal Eck

Dear Spring Hill Families,

It was another busy week. We had a science bee, a basketball game, a musical third grade performance and a whole lot of learning. 

On Thursday, our third graders went to Natural History Museum in DC. 

Just a reminder, Thursday, April 13th marks the final day of our 3rd quarter of school. Students will be dismissed at 1:30 PM. Additionally, Friday, April 14th is a teacher workday/student holiday.

On behalf of the Spring Hill staff have a wonderful and restful week. We will see you back on Monday, April 10th. 

Have a great weekend!

Spring Hill Closed During Spring Break

Mark your calendars!  Spring Hill Elementary will be closed from April 3-7 for Spring Break.  Students will return to school on Monday, April 10, 2023. 

Field Day T-Shirt Orders

This year Field Day will be held on May 26th, 2023.  Each student will receive a free T-Shirt to be worn on field day.  Please complete this Google form  so we can order a shirt for your student (s).  Please complete a separate form for each child that attends Spring Hill by April 10th.

Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS)

Our teachers and instructional staff support our students with academics, social-emotional, and behavioral skills every day, and parents and guardians are a vital piece of this support. You know your students best, and our goal is to partner with you to meet students' needs. 

To this end, Spring Hill's MTSS Committee (Multi-Tiered Systems of Support) has developed a link on our website here that outlines how we respond when teachers or parents/guardians have an academic, social-emotional, or behavioral concern. MTSS is a framework for supporting students that is responsive to their needs and goals. 

If you have any questions about how MTSS works at Spring Hill or any concerns about your child's progress in any area, please reach out to your child's classroom teacher.

April is Earth Month

We are calling on all of Spring Hill’s Panthers to help celebrate and care for Mother Earth this year!  April 22 is the official day we observe Earth Day, but we will be spending the week leading up to Earth Day doing our part to become better environmental stewards.  Please use the following Spirit Week suggestions to guide and encourage discussions about what each of us can do to help protect our beautiful planet.  Remember, if we all take little steps forward we can make a big difference.

 

Monday, April 17 - Saving Water - Wear blue

• Did you bring your reusable water bottle or turn off the water while brushing your teeth?  What else can we do at school to save water?

Tuesday, April 18 - Beautification Day - Wear orange

• This is our day to make Spring Hill look stunning!  Go out with your class and have your students pick up the trash they see.  What can we do to minimize trash?

Wednesday, April 19 - My Earth Day Promise - Wear purple

• Students will all fill out a promise (paper will be provided) they can make to Mother Earth to help protect her and reduce their carbon footprint
• I promise to reduce my carbon footprint by… 
• I promise to help the planet by…

Thursday, April 20 - Walk to School Day - Wear green

• Students who are able will meet prior to school are welcome to meet teachers at Hamlet Park, located near the corner of Macbeth St and Falstaff Rd in the McLean Hamlet neighborhood by 8:30am. From there, they will complete the short walk to school together.
• If many of your students are unable to attend, consider walking a lap around the school or track.  
• Walking is a great way to reduce our carbon footprint and stay healthy!
• All students will receive an Earth Day bracelet whether they walked to school or not. 

AAP Spring Newsletter: Screening for Subject-Specific and Part-Time Service

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is committed to challenging all students through talent development and differentiated instruction to meet the needs of advanced learners. Students may be screened for subject-specific and part-time AAP services at any time in the school year. However, in the spring, schools review data on all students to determine services for the start of the next school year.  Because all students are screened in the spring, it is not necessary to submit a referral form.   Families will be notified of eligibility of newly-identified, part-time services during the second week of June.

To learn more, please access the Newsletter here or contact Spring Hill's Advanced Academic Resources Teacher (AART), Ms. Danni James at [email protected]

Update Your Emergency Care Information Through [email protected]

Fairfax County Public Schools provides [email protected] (weCare), an emergency care information system, to parents/caregivers who have registered for their own parent account. weCare helps manage emergency medical information by allowing parents to enter and update their children’s medical data online at their convenience. That contact information automatically enrolls parents/caregivers to receive eNotify communications from the district and their child’s school. eNotify is the communications tool for FCPS emergency, transportation, attendance, weather closings and delay, and essential outreach messages. Messages are sent via email, text, and occasionally phone. 

Learn more about updating your emergency care information

Yearbook Sales

Don’t miss your opportunity to have your panther memories for years to come.  Please be aware we will not be ordering extra yearbooks, so if you want one, order now! 

Yearbook Ordering link:  https://ybpay.lifetouch.com/

Yearbook ID Code: 12616523

Direct link: https://ybpay.lifetouch.com/Order/LookupJob?jobNumber=12616523

Family Nutrition Tip of the Week: Don't forget Prebiotics

In recent years probiotics have gotten a lot of attention for their health benefits. But prebiotics are just as important since they work together with probiotics to keep our gut healthy. A healthy gut means stronger immunity, better digestion, improved mood, and lower risk for chronic diseases. Some foods richest in prebiotics include:

• Garlic, onions, leeks, scallions; add to stir-fries, salads, dips, and soups
• Asparagus; steam, saute or roast as a side dish with dinner
• Oats; enjoy a bowl of oatmeal for breakfast, or substitute for flour in baked goods
• Apples and under-ripe bananas; serve as an easy snack, or slice on top of oatmeal or yogurt

A Message from PTO STAFF BASKETBALL VICTORY!

Panther Pride was on full display as SHES took on Forestville for the annual Staff Basketball Game. Our team was victorious with a nail biting 50-40 win. It was a great night of Spring Hill school spirit!

 

Special thanks to committee chairs Brian Crane and Paige Moore, Team Captain Chris VanOrmer, Coach Steve Trembler, and the very talented Spring Hill Chorus and Pep Band who really kept the crowd engaged!

 

APRIL PTO MEETING

Please note, the April PTO meeting will be held on Friday, April 28th. This will be our last PTO meeting of the year. We look forward to giving a full budget report on the fantastic fundraising and community building year we've had. We will also be providing details on a few more fun events taking place as the school year wraps up, including the Panther Prowl on Sunday May 21st.

FCPS Parent Resource Center SIBSHOPS: An Exciting, In-person Workshop for Brothers and Sisters of Children with Special Needs!

The Sibshop workshops are for children in grades 2-6 enrolled in Fairfax County Public Schools who have siblings with special needs 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 and receive peer support.
• Play games and have fun!

Friday, April 14, 2023, 9 a.m.- noon at Providence Community Center

Presented by FCPS School Social Work Services

Register for SIBSHOPS: An Exciting, In-person Workshop for Brothers and Sisters of Children with Special Needs! 

Testing Updates Grades 3-6: 

• IReady (Reading/Math):April 11-May 19. Click here for more information regarding the iReady.
• Spring SOL's (May 1 - May 26). Click here for more information.. 

SOL Schedule Important Dates

 

April 3-7 - Spring Break

April 13 -  Early Release Day (1:35PM)

                  Kindergarten Registration (2:30-3:30 PM)

April 14 - Student Holiday 

April 21 - School Holiday

April 16-  Chorus Concert (6:30pm)

May 26-    Field Day

8201 Lewinsville Road McLean, VA 22102 | Main Office: 703-506-3400
Attendance: 703-506-3434 | Web

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

A Note from Principal Eck

Dear Spring Hill Families,

It was another busy week as we move toward the end of March. As you will see below, on Thursday @ 6:30 PM, the Spring Hill vs Forestville Staff basketball game will be held at McLean High School. This is such a fun event, and we hope to see you there to cheer us on!

Today, our fifth graders went to the Natural History Museum. They learned all about the oceans, fossils, rocks and minerals. Our second graders enjoyed their day at Smithsonian Discovery Theater and had exciting things to share. 

The yearbook is almost finished! But we are still missing some Panthers' smiling faces. We will be taking yearbook pictures for new students, and students who are still missing a picture, on Wednesday, March 29th.

Have a great weekend!

Spring Hill Closed During Spring Break

Mark your calendars!  Spring Hill Elementary will be closed from April 3-7 for Spring Break.  Students will return to school on Monday, April 10, 2023. 

It’s important to note that the end of the third quarter is on Thursday, April 13 and students will be dismissed at 1:35 p.m. Friday, April 14 is a student holiday.

Counselor Corner – March 2023

Bullying is a fundamental problem in the United States. According to PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center, “One out of every five (20.2%) students report being bullied.”  (National Center for Educational Statistics, 2019). In addition, PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center explains, “A higher percentage of male than of female students report being physically bullied (6% vs. 4%), whereas a higher percentage of female than of male students reported being the subjects of rumors (18% vs. 9%) and being excluded from activities on purpose (7% vs. 4%).” (National Center for Educational Statistics, 2019)

What is bullying exactly?

Bullying is a term often used when describing hurtful and mean behavior. However, the word does not always fit the situation in which it is used. There are three types of hurtful behavior, rude behavior, mean behavior, and bullying. Rude behavior is when someone says or does something unintentionally hurtful, and they do it once. Mean behavior is when someone say or does something intentionally hurtful, and they do it once. Bullying is best explained using the acronym, BOO. BOO stands for BEING MEAN, ON PURPOSE, OVER AND OVER. It is often viewed as an imbalance of power between the bully and the one being bullied. There are four types of bullying behavior. They include, physical, verbal, social/emotional, and cyberbullying. The website, stopbullying.gov, is a great resource that specifically defines the distinct types of bullying as follows:

What can I do to prevent bullying?

The website, stopbullying.gov, shares four key strategies to prevent bullying from happening.

1. Help kids understand bullying. Talk about what bullying is and how to stand up to it safely. Tell kids bullying is unacceptable. Make sure kids know how to get help.
2. Keep the lines of communication open. Check in with kids often. Listen to them. Know their friends, ask about school, and understand their concerns.
3. Encourage kids to do what they love. Special activities, interests, and hobbies can boost confidence, help kids make friends, and protect them from bullying behavior.
4. Model how to treat others with kindness and respect.

What can I do if I suspect bullying behavior?

Spring Hill Elementary School takes allegations of bullying very seriously. We want our students to feel safe and welcomed at school. School counselors teach weekly and monthly lessons that promote character traits shown to minimize instances of bullying. We make sure that students are aware of what bullying is and is not. We instruct students how to report bullying by notifying an adult. Students are often hesitant to report hurtful behavior to an adult because they are worried about the repercussions from their peers. Students, especially in the upper grades, use the word, “Snitch,” to describe the type of person that reports hurtful behavior. That is not the case. Reporting bullying behavior is not tattling. It is standing up for oneself or for someone being bullied. It must be reported to a school administrator. When an allegation of bullying is made, administration must investigate.

Spring Break COVID Test Kit Distribution

If your family is planning to travel or attend large gatherings over spring break, and you would like to ensure your child is healthy before returning to school, please contact us at 703-506-3400 to obtain a test kit in advance of spring break. Please note, testing is NOT required for students to return to school after break. However, you may want to test your student if they are symptomatic or have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. Kits will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Update Your Emergency Care Information Through [email protected]

Fairfax County Public Schools provides [email protected] (weCare), an emergency care information system, to parents/caregivers who have registered for their own parent account. weCare helps manage emergency medical information by allowing parents to enter and update their children’s medical data online at their convenience. That contact information automatically enrolls parents/caregivers to receive eNotify communications from the district and their child’s school. eNotify is the communications tool for FCPS emergency, transportation, attendance, weather closings and delay, and essential outreach messages. Messages are sent via email, text, and occasionally phone. 

Learn more about updating your emergency care information

Yearbook Sales

Don’t miss your opportunity to have your panther memories for years to come.  Please be aware we will not be ordering extra yearbooks, so if you want one, order now! 

Yearbook Ordering link:  https://ybpay.lifetouch.com/

Yearbook ID Code: 12616523

Direct link: https://ybpay.lifetouch.com/Order/LookupJob?jobNumber=12616523

Family Nutrition Tip of the Week: Pass on Ultra-Processed Foods

More than half the calories of the average American diet now come from ultra-processed foods. These are foods that have been altered with chemicals and artificial ingredients, in addition to unhealthy fats, sugar, and sodium. Research shows that a diet high in ultra-processed foods increases the risk of disease and premature mortality. The following pointers can help you reduce your consumption.

• Avoid processed meats like ham, sausage, deli meats, hot dogs, bacon, and meat nuggets; instead buy fresh meats and try protein alternatives like eggs, tuna, beans, or tofu
• Replace packaged snack foods and frozen meals, baked goods, and restaurant foods with whole foods by planning ahead for home-cooked meals, and packing a lunch and whole-food snacks like nuts and fruits for on-the-go
• Read the nutrition label and choose foods that are lower in sugar, fat, and sodium, and have a short list of ingredients
• Try whole food swaps like whole grains instead of refined grains, oatmeal in place of cereal, homemade over store-bought dressings and sauces, and olive or avocado oil in lieu of refined vegetable oils

A Message from PTO SHES vs Forestville Staff Basketball Game March 30th 630pm at McLean High School

Tickets are ON SALE NOW for this fantastic family friendly event! Come cheer on our Spring Hill Panthers as they match up against our rivals from Forestville. The Spring Hill Dream Team consists of Mrs Chang (3rd grade), Mrs. Swiers, Mrs. Gibbs (5th grade), Mr. VanOrmer (P.E.), Mr. Eddy (specialist), Mrs. Momeni (Kindergarten), Mr. Freeman (Band), Danielle Lasley (SHES Family Liasion), and more!!

Performances by the Spring Hill Pep Band, and more! Concessions will be available for purchase.

When: Thursday, March 30th

Where: McLean High School Gym

Time: Doors open at 6:30pm, Tip-off at 7pm!

Tickets : $10

A 'Fun Fair' Sized Thank You!

Spring Hill's 55th annual Fun Fair was a huge success! Our students, their families, and our wider community gathered for a day of games, prizes, activities and cotton candy! This event would not have been possible without the efforts of our amazing volunteers, who gave their time and energy to create a memorable experience for all who attended.

Many thanks to our spectacular Fun Fair Committee members:

Fran Ali, Karen Allman, Octavian Afteni, Agnese Banerjee, Regina Bensten, Marcy Borger, Molly Budman, Jessica Carter, Katie Colosi, Kerry Desai, Anna Engel, Katherine Gamao, Amy Griggs, Jayoung Han, Kelly Hare, Mollie Ifshin, Maggie Kuchner, Suma Lanka, Danielle Lasley, Rachel Link, Cindy Merson, Raven Miller, Amanda Mosher, Bill Mosher, Christina Murphy, Rashmi Nambiar, Katherine Ng, Stephanie Peebles, Erin Phillips, Hope Saadat, Alison Smith, Sophie Townend, and Tien Tran.

A very special thanks to the administration, the teachers who so generously allowed the use of their classrooms, the front office staff, and the custodians who worked tirelessly to both prepare for the event and get the school ready for the return of classes on Monday morning.

And last but certainly not least, we are grateful to the many parent volunteers who gave their time on Saturday to make sure that our kids had a safe and fun experience. The event could not have happened without your support.

 

Beth Franker, Fun Fair Committee Chair

FCPS Parent Resource Center Unlocking the Mysteries of Sleep and the Developing Brain

Scientists have long recognized that getting enough sleep during childhood can benefit developing brains. Join us for this series on the importance of sleep and the developing brain.

Webinar Highlights:

• Define sleep and understand the importance of sleep for children’s healthy development
• Provide an overview of the sleep and wake cycle
• Identify common sleep concerns and sleep disorders in children and adolescents and how to approach them
• Illustrate the consequences of insufficient sleep 
• Recognize some developmental aspects affecting sleep in children and adolescents 

Part 2: March 28, 2023 10-11:30 a.m, 

Presented by Dr. Shu Buckley, Director of the Sleep Disorders and Neurodevelopment Consult Service at National Institute of Mental Health.

Dr. Concepcion Zayas, child and adolescent psychiatrist in the Sleep Disorders and Neurodevelopment Consult Service at National Institute of Mental Health.

Register for Unlocking the Mysteries of Sleep and the Developing Brain

SIBSHOPS: An Exciting, In-person Workshop for Brothers and Sisters of Children with Special Needs!

The Sibshop workshops are for children in grades 2-6 enrolled in Fairfax County Public Schools who have siblings with special needs 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 and receive peer support.
• Play games and have fun!

Friday, April 14, 2023, 9 a.m.- noon at Providence Community Center

Presented by FCPS School Social Work Services

Register for SIBSHOPS: An Exciting, In-person Workshop for Brothers and Sisters of Children with Special Needs! 

SOL Schedule Important Dates

 

March 27 - K-3 Principal's Coffee (9-10:30 AM)

March 28 - 3rd Grade Music Showcase

March 29 - 4th - 6th Principal's Coffee (9-10:30 AM)

March 30 - Staff Basketball Game

April 3-7 - Spring Break

April 13 -  Early Release Day (1:35PM)

                  Kindergarten Registration (2:30-3:30 PM)

April 14 - Student Holiday 

April 21 - School Holiday

8201 Lewinsville Road McLean, VA 22102 | Main Office: 703-506-3400
Attendance: 703-506-3434 | Web

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

A Note from Principal Eck

Dear Spring Hill Families,

Today was such a fun day at Spring Hill! A leprechaun must have visited our school, as many classes, found some shenanigans in their classrooms. We also had an opportunity to do a school gallery walk to see all of the beautiful classroom doors celebrating Women’s History Month. What a joy it is to get to celebrate small moments of fun and joy amidst strong instruction and learning, today and every day!

It was with such pride seeing so many of our Spring Hill students represented last night at the Langley Pyramid Art Show! Thank you to our Art teachers, Ms. Gore and Ms. Farchtchi, who shared highlighted pieces.  It's not too late to see our students' artwork. See below for detailed information.

See you tomorrow at the fun fair and have a great weekend!

Langley Pyramid Art Show March 16-25, 2023

March is Youth Art Month! The Langley Pyramid Art Show features artwork by students at Langley High School, Cooper Middle School, and Colvin Run, Churchill Road, Forestville, Great Falls, and Spring Hill Elementary Schools. Visit the art show and view artwork by thirty-seven Spring Hill students now through March 25 at McLean Project for the Arts, located at McLean Community Center, 1234 Ingleside Avenue, McLean 22101. The gallery hours are Tuesday – Friday, 1-4pm, and Saturday, 10am-3pm, with special evening hours until 7pm on Friday, March 24. Thank you to McLean Project for the Arts for once again providing a professional gallery space for our Langley Pyramid Art Show. 

Understanding Virginia Growth Assessment (VGA) Reports

Grade 3-8 students across Virginia took VGA tests in fall and winter of 2022-23. FCPS mailed score reports to families earlier this month that combine Fall and Winter results. When viewing students’ scores, it is important to keep in mind that there is no “passing” or “failing” for VGA tests and that each vertical scaled score reflects performance on a single day. VGA results should be used alongside other available data for a more complete picture of students’ academic progress. Also keep in mind that the VGA asks questions from the entire curriculum, including some standards that will not be taught until later in the school year.  

The FCPS VGA Score Reports webpage now includes a section on Understanding VGA Results, featuring Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ). This section will continue to be updated throughout the spring to address incoming questions and to reflect additional state guidance as it is released. 

March 17th Sing-Along

Thank you Ms. Rudd and Ms.Harwood for this morning's performance,

Yearbook Sales

Don’t miss your opportunity to have your panther memories for years to come.  Please be aware we will not be ordering extra yearbooks, so if you want one, order now! 

Yearbook Ordering link:  https://ybpay.lifetouch.com/

Yearbook ID Code: 12616523

Direct link: https://ybpay.lifetouch.com/Order/LookupJob?jobNumber=12616523

Family Nutrition Tip of the Week: Go for Greens

Many of you will be wearing green this month, and hopefully you'll be eating lots of them too. Leafy greens in particular are among the most nutrient-dense foods, which are loaded with disease-fighting nutrients and antioxidants. Read on to learn more about their benefits and ways to eat more of them.

• Kale is rich in antioxidants and fiber, which can help prevent diabetes; make kale pesto, kale chips, or add to pastas, omelets and stir-fries
• Spinach contains nutrients that may help protect the brain against Alzheimer's; use in salads, add to sandwiches and wraps, or add to smoothies
• Collard greens are high in vitamins and folate which can reduce your risk of heart disease; use to wrap up your sandwich in place of bread
• Swiss Chard is abundant in polyphenols which can inhibit cancer cell growth; sauté and add to soups, stews, casseroles, and frittatas

FCPS Parent Resource Center Unlocking the Mysteries of Sleep and the Developing Brain

Scientists have long recognized that getting enough sleep during childhood can benefit developing brains. Join us for this series on the importance of sleep and the developing brain.

Webinar Highlights:

• Define sleep and understand the importance of sleep for children’s healthy development
• Provide an overview of the sleep and wake cycle
• Identify common sleep concerns and sleep disorders in children and adolescents and how to approach them
• Illustrate the consequences of insufficient sleep 
• Recognize some developmental aspects affecting sleep in children and adolescents 

Part 2: March 28, 2023 10-11:30 a.m, 

Presented by Dr. Shu Buckley, Director of the Sleep Disorders and Neurodevelopment Consult Service at National Institute of Mental Health.

Dr. Concepcion Zayas, child and adolescent psychiatrist in the Sleep Disorders and Neurodevelopment Consult Service at National Institute of Mental Health.

Register for Unlocking the Mysteries of Sleep and the Developing Brain

Preparing Families for Difficult Conversations about Alcohol & Drugs

What knowledge and information do you need to engage in meaningful conversations with your children about drugs?

Webinar Highlights:

• Understand basic info about alcohol, nicotine, cannabis, and opioids
• List what you can do as a caregiver
• Identify & connect with community resources

Presented by: FCPS Student Safety & Wellness Office

Tuesday, March 21, 2023, 10-11:30 a.m.

Register for Preparing Families for Difficult Conversations about Alcohol & Drugs

Suicide Prevention: A School and Family Partnership

Recognizing the warning signs and symptoms of suicide in youth is the first step in preventing youth suicide. As a caregiver, you can serve as a trusted adult for your child and other young people. 

In this session, caregivers will learn about youth suicide and how to respond to youth who may be demonstrating warning signs of a mental health challenge or who are in crisis. 

Highlights of the webinar will include:

• Understanding protective factors and their impact on mental health
• Warning signs of suicide
• How to have conversations with your children about youth suicide
• Building strong school and family partnerships

Presented by Bethany Demers, FCPS Mental Wellness Specialist, and Kristen Biernesser, FCPS Counseling Resource Teacher.

March 24, 2023, 10-11:30 a.m

Register for Suicide Prevention: A School and Family Partnership

SOL Schedule Important Dates

March 18 - Fun Fair 

March 27 - K-3 Principal's Coffee (9-10:30 AM)

March 28 - 3rd Grade Music Showcase

March 29 - 4th - 6th Principal's Coffee (9-10:30 AM)

March 30 - Staff Basketball Game

April 3-7 - Spring Break

April 13 - Kindergarten Registration (2:30-3:30 PM)

April 14 - Student Holiday 

8201 Lewinsville Road McLean, VA 22102 | Main Office: 703-506-3400
Attendance: 703-506-3434 | Web

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A Note from Principal Eck

Dear Spring Hill Families,

With March comes Spring and that means it is time to change our clocks. This Sunday, March 12, at 2 a.m., daylight saving time begins. Don’t forget to move your clocks ahead one hour! As a result of the time change, many students will be walking to school or to bus stops in the dark. Help your child stay safe by having them wear reflective clothing and bright or light colors or add reflective items to their backpacks or clothes. Also, encourage your child to be especially alert for cars that are turning or backing up and not to run into the street or cross between parked cars.

Earlier this week, our 6th graders had a wonderful field trip to the National Art Gallery. They were so happy as they got on the bus to go see all the wonderful exhibitions and beautiful works of art. 

Have a great weekend!

Fun Fair Spirit Week Join the fun and celebrate school spirit.

Mellow Monday – March 13 – Wear comfy clothes/PJs

Team Tuesday – March 14 – Wear your favorite jersey

Wacky Hair Wednesday – March 15

Twinning Thursday – March 16 – Dress like a friend

Friday – March 17 – Spring Hill Spirit Day – show your Panther Pride!

Testing Updates Grades K 3-6

Spring SEL screener testing window (Grades 3-6) is now open through March 24th Click here for the notification of testing letter.

VDOE and FCPS require schools to deliver screening and progress monitoring assessments multiple times per year to evaluate school readiness, measure student growth, and inform student intervention/supports. A summary of spring expectations is provided here by grade range.

Grades 1:

Ability Testing

All first grade students will participate in Naglieri testing March 7th-March 9th. Please contact your child's teacher for exact dates. Here is more information regarding the Naglieri testing.

Grades 3-6: 

• IReady (Reading/Math):April 11-May 19. Click here for more information regarding the iReady.
• Spring SOL's (May 1 - May 26). Click here for more information.
• Spring Hill will be administering the SOL's on the following below dates. Please note this is slightly different than the previously published schedule. We wanted to give our students a little extra time to continue to learn prior to these very important tests.

Yearbook Sales

Don’t miss your opportunity to have your panther memories for years to come.  Please be aware we will not be ordering extra yearbooks, so if you want one, order now! 

Yearbook Ordering link:  https://ybpay.lifetouch.com/

Yearbook ID Code: 12616523

Direct link: https://ybpay.lifetouch.com/Order/LookupJob?jobNumber=12616523

Salad Bar is Back - March 15

Starting Wednesday, March 15, the Spring Hill Cafeteria will feature a salad bar as another option for student lunches! To learn more about the salad bar, please click here. 

Kindergarten and New Student Registrations for 2023-24 Now Underway

We are now accepting kindergarten registrations! Students must be 5 years old by September 30th, 2023. 

If you know anyone who has a rising kindergartener (or 1st-6th student who will attend Spring Hill Elementary), please encourage them to begin registration as soon as possible. Notifying our office of your intent to register or complete registration helps our school secure staffing for the upcoming school year.

If you would like to register your child, begin your Kindergarten and New Student Registration today or contact our Student Information Assistant (SIA), Ms. Kim at 703-506-3400 to schedule an appointment.

Family Nutrition Tip of the Week: Boost Brain Health

Eating a brain-boosting diet is important for optimal brain development and function. It also has a significant impact on mood and mental health. Here are some of the best foods to eat to support brain health:

• Salmon - omega-3 fatty acids improve blood flow to the brain and improve cognition
• Dark chocolate - flavonoids may support memory and learning
• Nuts - vitamin E protects cells from oxidative stress caused by free radicals
• Leafy greens - vitamin K and folate protect against cognitive decline and dementia
• Berries - antioxidants stimulate blood and oxygen flow to the brain and boost concentration

A Message from PTO Get your Passport to Fun Fair!  Saturday, March 18 from 10 am to 2 pm

If you are new to Spring Hill, now is a GREAT time to learn all the "Fun Fair 411" Check out our robust website to have all your questions answered! 

TICKETS: Online ticket sales have closed. In-person pre sales will be at the following times and locations: 

• Before school Monday to Friday (3/13-3/17) at the main entrance
• After school Monday to Thursday (3/13-3/16) outside at Door 7 (walker door by the larger playground area) *no after school sales on Friday March 17th*

We will accept cash, check (must be made out to "Spring Hill PTO") and credit cards.

Tickets purchased online will be delivered to your student on Tuesday, March 14th (check their backpacks!).

RAFFLE: Check out our amazing raffle prizes here! Simply write your name and phone number on any purchased ticket, drop it in the box for the prize of your choice, and hope Principal Eck draws your ticket! to Fun

Can't come to Fun Fair? You can still win! Buy tickets next week during presales and drop them in one of the five available raffle boxes: IPad, Xbox, American Girl Doll, Hoverboard, and Slushie Maker. See the tickets section above for times and location of presales.

CANDY CLOCK: Want to rock around our Candy Clock? Please consider donating candy wreaths and necklaces to be used as prizes. 15 FREE Fun Fair tickets to all families that contribute 2 or more items! Please use only WRAPPED, NUT-FREE CANDY for your craft. You do not need to include your name on your donation. Deliver all completed wreaths and necklaces to the cafeteria stage before school March 13-March 17. Click here for more info!

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: Help wanted! No experience needed! Thinking of attending the March 30th SHES Staff Basketball Game? Fun Fair volunteers receive (1) FREE ticket! You can find more information about adult and student volunteer opportunities here. 

FCPS Parent Resource Center Unlocking the Mysteries of Sleep and the Developing Brain

Scientists have long recognized that getting enough sleep during childhood can benefit developing brains. Join us for this series on the importance of sleep and the developing brain.

Webinar Highlights:

• Define sleep and understand the importance of sleep for children’s healthy development
• Provide an overview of the sleep and wake cycle
• Identify common sleep concerns and sleep disorders in children and adolescents and how to approach them
• Illustrate the consequences of insufficient sleep 
• Recognize some developmental aspects affecting sleep in children and adolescents 

Part 1: March 14, 2023 10-11:30 a.m. 

Part 2: March 28, 2023 10-11:30 a.m, 

Presented by Dr. Shu Buckley, Director of the Sleep Disorders and Neurodevelopment Consult Service at National Institute of Mental Health.

Dr. Concepcion Zayas, child and adolescent psychiatrist in the Sleep Disorders and Neurodevelopment Consult Service at National Institute of Mental Health.

Register for Unlocking the Mysteries of Sleep and the Developing Brain

Important Dates

March 18 - Fun Fair 

March 27 - K-3 Principal's Coffee (9-10:30 AM)

March 28 - 3rd Grade Music Showcase

March 29 - 4th - 6th Principal's Coffee (9-10:30 AM)

March 30 - Staff Basketball Game

April 3-7 - Spring Break

April 13 - Kindergarten Registration (2:30-3:30 PM)

April 14 - Student Holiday 

8201 Lewinsville Road McLean, VA 22102 | Main Office: 703-506-3400
Attendance: 703-506-3434 | Web

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

A Note from Principal Eck

Dear Spring Hill Families,

This week, our students celebrated Read Across America Week with their classmates and special guest readers. Today was a wonderful professional development day. Staff discussed and trained in Cultural Proficiency, focusing on various pieces of data used to make learning meaningful for students. Teachers also had time to meet and plan their next units of studies.

Interim progress reports will be sent home on Thursday, March 9th for all students. Please keep an eye out for it. 

Our salad bar opens on March 15th (see brochure below). We look forward to having this additional option in the café to encourage nutritional eating options for students. 

Have a great weekend!

Kindergarten Orientation How to Talk to Your Child About Their Mental Health

Talking with your child about emotional topics, such as their mental health, can feel uncomfortable. This can be due to the stigma involved, lack of information or even fears of possible blame. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers helpful tips on reducing the stigma and how to have a healthy dialog on mental health.

Testing Updates Grades K 3-6

Spring SEL screener testing window (Grades 3-6) is now open through March 24th Click here for the notification of testing letter.

VDOE and FCPS require schools to deliver screening and progress monitoring assessments multiple times per year to evaluate school readiness, measure student growth, and inform student intervention/supports. A summary of spring expectations is provided here by grade range.

Grades 1:

Ability Testing

All first grade students will participate in Naglieri testing March 7th-March 9th. Please contact your child's teacher for exact dates. Here is more information regarding the Naglieri testing.

Grades 3-6: 

• IReady (Reading/Math):April 11-May 19. Click here for more information regarding the iReady.
• Spring SOL's (May 1 - May 26). Click here for more information.
• Spring Hill will be administering the SOL's on the following below dates. Please note this is slightly different than the previously published schedule. We wanted to give our students a little extra time to continue to learn prior to these very important tests.

Yearbook Sales

Don’t miss your opportunity to have your panther memories for years to come.  Please be aware we will not be ordering extra yearbooks, so if you want one, order now! 

Yearbook Ordering link:  https://ybpay.lifetouch.com/

Yearbook ID Code: 12616523

Direct link: https://ybpay.lifetouch.com/Order/LookupJob?jobNumber=12616523

Salad Bar is Back - March 15 Kindergarten and New Student Registrations for 2023-24 Now Underway

We are now accepting kindergarten registrations! Students must be 5 years old by September 30th, 2023. 

If you know anyone who has a rising kindergartener (or 1st-6th student who will attend Spring Hill Elementary), please encourage them to begin registration as soon as possible. Notifying our office of your intent to register or complete registration helps our school secure staffing for the upcoming school year.

If you would like to register your child, begin your Kindergarten and New Student Registration today or contact our Student Information Assistant (SIA), Ms. Kim at 703-506-3400 to schedule an appointment.

Family Nutrition Tip of the Week: Choose Good Carbs

Carbohydrates are important because they provide your body with energy for bodily functions and physical activity. However, refined carbs have been processed to remove most of their fiber, vitamins and minerals, and can do us more harm than good. These pointers can help you choose quality carbohydrates so you can get the most out of them.

• Keep in mind that fruits, vegetables, and beans/legumes are high-quality, nourishing sources of carbohydrates
• Choose the whole grain forms of bread, pasta, and rice, which contain more fiber to keep you feeling fuller for longer
• Avoid refined carbs like cookies, crackers, and chips which are empty calories, and can lead to weight gain
• Limit added sugars which cause blood sugar spikes that can lead to heart disease and diabetes over time

A Message from PTO Fun Fair is Saturday, March 18 @ 10 am to 2 pm

Are you a Fun Fair first timer? Learn everything you need to know about Fun Fair here! Over the next few weeks, we have a lot of exciting information you won't want to miss.

• T-SHIRT SALES CLOSE MONDAY 2/27. Don't miss out! Buy them here
• Volunteer for one (or more) shifts, with special incentive for those who sign up prior to March 4. Put the FUN in Fun Fair and sign up with a friend! Absolutely NO EXPERIENCE is needed. You will be given all instructions when you arrive.
• Discounted tickets are on sale now. Buy early and save big!
• Candy Clock, one of our most popular games, needs your help making candy wreaths and leis. Earn fun fair tickets in exchange for your donations! Learn all about it here.

Staff Basketball Game - March 30th!

Mark your calendars for a night of family fun as your favorite SHES staff take on Forestville Elementary in a Staff Basketball Game showdown.

Now is a great time to update your Spirit Wear. Order today to have a fresh look while you cheer on the Panthers!

Tickets will go on sale in the coming weeks. As a special incentive, anyone who volunteers for Fun Fair, receives one free ticket (eligible for adult volunteers only).

FCPS Parent Resource Center Neurodiversity at Middle School

How can families partner with schools?

• Strategies to set your child up for success
• How to advocate for your child
• Tools for collaborating with your child's school

March 10, 2023, 10 - 11:30 a.m.

Presented by Kristen Haynor, FCPS Neurodiversity Specialist

Register for Neurdoversity at Middle Schools

 

Unlocking the Mysteries of Sleep and the Developing Brain

Scientists have long recognized that getting enough sleep during childhood can benefit developing brains. Join us for this series on the importance of sleep and the developing brain.

Webinar Highlights:

• Define sleep and understand the importance of sleep for children’s healthy development
• Provide an overview of the sleep and wake cycle
• Identify common sleep concerns and sleep disorders in children and adolescents and how to approach them
• Illustrate the consequences of insufficient sleep 
• Recognize some developmental aspects affecting sleep in children and adolescents 

Part 1: March 14, 2023 10-11:30 a.m. 

Part 2: March 28, 2023 10-11:30 a.m, 

Presented by Dr. Shu Buckley, Director of the Sleep Disorders and Neurodevelopment Consult Service at National Institute of Mental Health.

Dr. Concepcion Zayas, child and adolescent psychiatrist in the Sleep Disorders and Neurodevelopment Consult Service at National Institute of Mental Health.

Register for Unlocking the Mysteries of Sleep and the Developing Brain

Important Dates

March 18 - Fun Fair 

March 27 - K-3 Principal's Coffee (9-10:30 AM)

March 29 - 4th - 6th Principal's Coffee (9-10:30 AM)

March 30 - Staff Basketball Game

April 3-7 - Spring Break

April 13 - Kindergarten Registration (2:30-3:30 PM)

April 14 - Student Holiday 

8201 Lewinsville Road McLean, VA 22102 | Main Office: 703-506-3400
Attendance: 703-506-3434 | Web

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

A Note from Principal Eck

Dear Spring Hill Families,

Read Across America Day is Thursday, March 2. We will have a wear red, white, and blue spirit day. Read Across America is a nationwide annual reading celebration to promote literacy and encourage a love of reading among children. Throughout the month of March, students and staff at Spring Hill, will celebrate reading with guest speakers, scavenger hunts and fun books. 

Just a reminder, Thursday, March 2nd is a two-hour early release for our Panthers. Students will be dismissed at 1:35 PM. Friday, March 3rd is a teacher workday. Students do not report to school. We will welcome our Panthers back on Monday, March 6th at 8:30 AM!

Have a great weekend!

Kindergarten Orientation Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!

Every year, absences increase in the weeks before and after spring break. Please make sure your child is in school every day until vacation starts. Our teachers will be teaching, and our students will be learning. Visit our website for more attendance resources. 

Yearbook Sales

Don’t miss your opportunity to have your panther memories for years to come.  Please be aware we will not be ordering extra yearbooks, so if you want one, order now! 

Yearbook Ordering link:  https://ybpay.lifetouch.com/

Yearbook ID Code: 12616523

Direct link: https://ybpay.lifetouch.com/Order/LookupJob?jobNumber=12616523

Lexia is Part of the Equitable Access to Literacy Plan

As part of the FCPS Elementary Language Arts Basal Resource Adoption, Lexia Core5 and Lexia PowerUp will be used for the next 7 years in FCPS. Lexia is used as part of our literacy block during independent practice when teachers are doing skills based small group instruction.  Core 5 is the K-5 version of Lexia and Powerup is the 6-8 version of the program.

Here is why Lexia Units and Minutes Matter!

• Lexia allows for students to practice skills they are learning! Lexia is computer adaptive and meets students where they are in their learning.
• When students use Lexia for the required amount of time if students are stuck, answer incorrectly or are working slow it will flag students in the program. Teachers use these flags to provide small group instruction for students.
• Time and unit goals reflect the time/practice needed to be on grade level across multiple areas. You can see your student’s information on their student dashboard (please see below) 
• Students should always work independently on Lexia; this helps us provide instruction that is best for each student!

We encourage students to log into Lexia at home. This research-based program will help your child succeed. 

Kindergarten and New Student Registrations for 2023-24 Now Underway

We are now accepting kindergarten registrations! Students must be 5 years old by September 30th, 2023. 

If you know anyone who has a rising kindergartener (or 1st-6th student who will attend Spring Hill Elementary), please encourage them to begin registration as soon as possible. Notifying our office of your intent to register or complete registration helps our school secure staffing for the upcoming school year.

If you would like to register your child, begin your Kindergarten and New Student Registration today or contact our Student Information Assistant (SIA), Ms. Kim at 703-506-3400 to schedule an appointment.

Family Nutrition Tip of the Week: Meal Plan Ahead

When we don't plan ahead for meals, we're more likely to eat whatever is quickest and most convenient, and often not the healthiest. You can make eating healthy easier by taking a little time to prepare in advance.

• Create a weekly lunch and dinner plan with a corresponding grocery list
• Keep lists of your favorite healthy recipe sites and apps, and go-to healthy meals
• Consider healthy meal delivery services, crockpot meals, and make-ahead freezer meals to save time
• Keep your fridge stocked with plenty of fresh and frozen vegetables and fruits

A Message from Our Physical Education Teachers

We will be using balloons as part of our volleying unit in PE for grades K-2 for the next 3 weeks.  We have looked through the medical list and show no latex allergies, however we want to be sure everyone is safe.  If your child has a latex allergy and cannot use balloons, or if you have any questions, please email Ms. Barker as soon as possible at [email protected].  Thank you!

A Message from PTO Fun Fair is Saturday, March 18 @ 10 am to 2 pm

Are you a Fun Fair first timer? Learn everything you need to know about Fun Fair here! Over the next few weeks, we have a lot of exciting information you won't want to miss.

• T-SHIRT SALES CLOSE MONDAY 2/27. Don't miss out! Buy them here
• Volunteer for one (or more) shifts, with special incentive for those who sign up prior to March 4. Put the FUN in Fun Fair and sign up with a friend! Absolutely NO EXPERIENCE is needed. You will be given all instructions when you arrive.
• Discounted tickets are on sale now. Buy early and save big!
• Candy Clock, one of our most popular games, needs your help making candy wreaths and leis. Earn fun fair tickets in exchange for your donations! Learn all about it here.

BASIC BURGER FUNDRAISER

Dine out for a good cause, Tuesday February 28th from 4-9pm at Basic Burger. The restaurant will donate 25% of sales (minus state and local sales tax) to Spring Hill Elementary! Online (enter code: Spring Hill) and Dine-in orders qualify. Tyson's West location only, located at 1495 Cornerstone Blvd, Vienna, VA 22182. Look for a flier in this week's Thursday folders. 

FCPS Parent Resource Center Neurodiversity at Middle School

How can families partner with schools?

• Strategies to set your child up for success
• How to advocate for your child
• Tools for collaborating with your child's school

March 10, 2023, 10 - 11:30 a.m.

Presented by Kristen Haynor, FCPS Neurodiversity Specialist

Register for Neurdoversity at Middle Schools

 

Unlocking the Mysteries of Sleep and the Developing Brain

Scientists have long recognized that getting enough sleep during childhood can benefit developing brains. Join us for this series on the importance of sleep and the developing brain.

Webinar Highlights:

• Define sleep and understand the importance of sleep for children’s healthy development
• Provide an overview of the sleep and wake cycle
• Identify common sleep concerns and sleep disorders in children and adolescents and how to approach them
• Illustrate the consequences of insufficient sleep 
• Recognize some developmental aspects affecting sleep in children and adolescents 

Part 1: March 14, 2023 10-11:30 a.m. 

Part 2: March 28, 2023 10-11:30 a.m, 

Presented by Dr. Shu Buckley, Director of the Sleep Disorders and Neurodevelopment Consult Service at National Institute of Mental Health.

Dr. Concepcion Zayas, child and adolescent psychiatrist in the Sleep Disorders and Neurodevelopment Consult Service at National Institute of Mental Health.

Register for Unlocking the Mysteries of Sleep and the Developing Brain

Important Dates

March 2 - Two-Hour Early Release

March 3 - Student Holiday/Professional Workday

March 18 - Fun Fair 

March 27 - K-3 Principal's Coffee (9-10:30 AM)

March 29 - 4th - 6th Principal's Coffee (9-10:30 AM)

March 30 - Staff Basketball Game

April 3-7 - Spring Break

April 13 - Kindergarten Registration (2:30-3:30 PM)

April 14 - Student Holiday 

8201 Lewinsville Road McLean, VA 22102 | Main Office: 703-506-3400
Attendance: 703-506-3434 | Web

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

A Note from Principal Eck

Dear Spring Hill Families,

What a lovely week it has been! We saw acts of kindness and sharing across all grade levels throughout the week. Our staff also felt a lot of love from our families during our Valentine's Day PTO luncheon. Thank you for all the hearts and delicious lunch. 

Monday is Presidents' Day, a holiday during which all FCPS Schools and Offices are closed. We will see everyone on Tuesday.

Have a great weekend!

Kindergarten Orientation Attendance Line

When calling in an absence for a sick student, please include symptoms and/or diagnosis in your message or email. Many absences just state sick and our health nurse has to call everyone to follow up on symptoms. If you have any questions, please feel free to call Catherine S. Romer, RN, BSN, Public Health Nurse at Spring HIll at (703) 506-3400.

Yearbook Sales

Don’t miss your opportunity to have your panther memories for years to come.  Please be aware we will not be ordering extra yearbooks, so if you want one, order now! 

Yearbook Ordering link:  https://ybpay.lifetouch.com/

Yearbook ID Code: 12616523

Direct link: https://ybpay.lifetouch.com/Order/LookupJob?jobNumber=12616523

Tutor.com - Extra Help for Students at No Cost to Families 

With Tutor.com through Schoology, FCPS students are able to get learning help at any time, even from bilingual tutors! Students in FCPS meet with tutors thousands of times each week to practice reading, prepare for an upcoming math test, write computer programs, study for the SAT, or to get feedback on scholarship essays–all at no cost to their families! If you haven’t already, we encourage you to take just a few minutes to connect with a tutor with your child. More info about Tutor.com in FCPS is available here. 

Kindergarten and New Student Registrations for 2023-24 Now Underway

We are now accepting kindergarten registrations! Students must be 5 years old by September 30th, 2023. 

If you know anyone who has a rising kindergartener (or 1st-6th student who will attend Spring Hill Elementary), please encourage them to begin registration as soon as possible. Notifying our office of your intent to register or complete registration helps our school secure staffing for the upcoming school year.

If you would like to register your child, begin your Kindergarten and New Student Registration today or contact our Student Information Assistant (SIA), Ms. Kim at 703-506-3400 to schedule an appointment.

Family Nutrition Tip of the Week: Build a Healthy Lunch

Whether making lunch for school or at home, a well-built lunch should be appealing and include plenty of nutrition and long-lasting energy. These tips could help ensure a well-balanced lunch that gets eaten and fuels your child through the afternoon.

• Include about 50% veggies and fruits, 25% protein (nuts, cheese, hard-boiled eggs, hummus, edamame, yogurt), and 25% whole grains (whole-grain bread and tortilla, brown rice, quinoa)
• Create a lunch "cheat sheet" with a lunch plan for each day or a go-to list of items in each food category, and keep those items in stock
• Have the kids help create the daily lunch plan, list of food items, or help make lunch themselves
• Make it appealing with a variety of foods, colors, shapes, and dips.

A Message from PTO Spring Hill Elementary’s 55th Annual Fun Fair is Saturday, March 18 from 10 am to 2 pm

With only a month to go, planning is in full swing, but we need your help to make the day a success! Learn everything you need to know about Fun Fair here!

Please consider volunteering for one (or more!) shifts. Absolutely NO EXPERIENCE is needed! You will be given all instructions when you arrive.  Adult and middle/high school slots available.

T-shirt sales are ONLINE ONLY! The deadline is next Friday, February 24, so get your order in now! Buy them here!

Discounted tickets are on sale now online. Buy early and save!

Candy Clock, one of our most popular games, needs your help making candy wreaths and leis. Learn all about it here.

Request for Photos

Has your family traveled somewhere fun this year? Do you have photos of your children on a trip? Fun Fair is coming up soon and the theme is travel. We would like to incorporate photos of our students traveling into the Fun Fair decorations.

If you have photos to share, please email them to [email protected] no later than March 8th.

FCPS Parent Resource Center Neurodiversity at Middle School

How can families partner with schools?

• Strategies to set your child up for success
• How to advocate for your child
• Tools for collaborating with your child's school

March 10, 2023, 10 - 11:30 a.m.

Presented by Kristen Haynor, FCPS Neurodiversity Specialist

Register for Neurdoversity at Middle Schools

 

Unlocking the Mysteries of Sleep and the Developing Brain

Scientists have long recognized that getting enough sleep during childhood can benefit developing brains. Join us for this series on the importance of sleep and the developing brain.

Webinar Highlights:

• Define sleep and understand the importance of sleep for children’s healthy development
• Provide an overview of the sleep and wake cycle
• Identify common sleep concerns and sleep disorders in children and adolescents and how to approach them
• Illustrate the consequences of insufficient sleep 
• Recognize some developmental aspects affecting sleep in children and adolescents 

Part 1: March 14, 2023 10-11:30 a.m. 

Part 2: March 28, 2023 10-11:30 a.m, 

Presented by Dr. Shu Buckley, Director of the Sleep Disorders and Neurodevelopment Consult Service at National Institute of Mental Health.

Dr. Concepcion Zayas, child and adolescent psychiatrist in the Sleep Disorders and Neurodevelopment Consult Service at National Institute of Mental Health.

Register for Unlocking the Mysteries of Sleep and the Developing Brain

Important Dates

February 20 - George Washington’s Birthday and Presidents’ Day 

March 2 - Two-Hour Early Release

March 3 - Student Holiday/Professional Workday

March 6 - Principal's Coffee (Grades K-3rd)

March 8 - Principal's Coffee (Grades 4th - 6th) 

March 18 - Fun Fair 

March 30 - Staff Basketball Game

April 3-7 - Spring Break

April 13 - Kindergarten Registration (2:30-3:30 PM)

April 14 - Student Holiday 

8201 Lewinsville Road McLean, VA 22102 | Main Office: 703-506-3400
Attendance: 703-506-3434 | Web

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

A Note from Principal Eck

Dear Spring Hill Families,

We've been loving this mild weather for recess, arrival and dismissal! When the weather is warm, children have a tendency to forget their jackets and coats, and our Lost and Found is growing! Please remind your child to check the Lost and Found in the cafeteria. 

Next week, we celebrate Random Acts of Kindness Week. It’s a celebration of all the ways we can become a positive influence in each other’s lives. Even one small act of kindness can mean a great deal to somebody. 

Last, a huge heartfelt thanks to Ms. Rudd and Ms. Harwood for another wonderful music performance. Our Kindergarteners were amazing. 

Have a great weekend!

SHES Kindness Week - Show Your Spirit Spring Hill MathCounts

Congratulations to Springhill’s MathCounts team.  We performed well in a very competitive field, placing 6th as a team in the Northern Virginia Chapter.  Northern Virginia Chapter includes Longfellow, Cooper, BASIS, and other middle schools.  In addition, Andrew Du won 1st place for Countdown round of all 6th graders across three different chapters.  Andrew Du, Bryan Tan, and Winston Yu all finished in the top 25% of NoVA Chapter.  Congrats to our entire team selected to represent Springhill including William Li, Zohran Valliani, James Pham, Zoey Gu, Bradley Wang, Pranav Sirivolu, TyLee Armstrong, and Berk Ozozlu. You should all be very proud!  

Family Travel Pictures

Has your family traveled somewhere fun this year? Do you have photos of your children on a trip? Fun Fair is coming up soon and the theme is travel. We would like to incorporate photos of our students traveling into the Fun Fair decorations.

If you have photos to share, please email them to [email protected] no later than March 8th.

Tutor.com - Extra Help for Students at No Cost to Families 

With Tutor.com through Schoology, FCPS students are able to get learning help at any time, even from bilingual tutors! Students in FCPS meet with tutors thousands of times each week to practice reading, prepare for an upcoming math test, write computer programs, study for the SAT, or to get feedback on scholarship essays–all at no cost to their families! If you haven’t already, we encourage you to take just a few minutes to connect with a tutor with your child. More info about Tutor.com in FCPS is available here. 

Kindergarten and New Student Registrations for 2023-24 Now Underway

We are now accepting kindergarten registrations! Students must be 5 years old by September 30th, 2023. 

If you know anyone who has a rising kindergartener (or 1st-6th student who will attend Spring Hill Elementary), please encourage them to begin registration as soon as possible. Notifying our office of your intent to register or complete registration helps our school secure staffing for the upcoming school year.

If you would like to register your child, begin your Kindergarten and New Student Registration today or contact our Student Information Assistant (SIA), Ms. Kim at 703-506-3400 to schedule an appointment.

Family Nutrition Tip of the Week: Delight in Dark Chocolate

This Valentine's Day millions of Americans will indulge in the go-to gift of chocolate. In fact, polls show the average American eats about 10 pounds of chocolate per year. By choosing dark chocolate (ideally, at least 70% cocoa) and consuming in moderation (1-2 ounces), you can reap the following health benefits and indulge guilt-free.

• Flavonoids may help to lower blood pressure and protect cells from oxidative damage

• Polyphenols may help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and increase HDL (good) cholesterol

• Minerals magnesium, zinc, copper, iron and phosphorus help keep bones and teeth healthy, and may improve sleep quality

• Prebiotic fiber helps support a health gut microbiome

A Message from PTO THANK YOU!

The Spring Hill PTO would like to give a very warm THANK YOU to all who contributed to the Bids for Kids online campaign and those who attended our live auction party! The week was a great success and puts us that much closer to our 2022/2023 fundraising goals. Special thanks to event chairs, Anna Engel and Marcy Borger! We also would like to extend our appreciation to the local businesses who partnered with us for the event, The Wine Outlet and Bach to Rock, as well as Fass Results, McLean Family Dentistry, Skill Builders, and Hamlet Swim and Tennis Club who are Spring Hill PTO Corporate Sponsors.

 

Put Your Heart On Display & Treat the Staff on Valentine’s Day - Deadline Extended!

This Valentine’s Day give your teachers what they really want…a special treat from their sweet admirers ❤️  For $5, you can sponsor a SHE staff member and the Staff Appreciation Committee will use the funds to provide special treats for our beloved Spring Hill Staff on Valentine’s Day. More information is available on the PTO website. PTO website.

Put your heart on display by Sunday, February 12th!

PTO Meeting Reminder - February 17th

Please join us for our next PTO meeting on Friday, February 17th at 9am in the school cafeteria. We will present fundraising updates and detailing some exciting events and volunteer needs we have coming up! 

A Parent University presentation will be immediately following our meeting. This month's topic is Bullying Prevention and Intervention, presented by Stefan Mascoll, FCPS Student Safety and Wellness Coordinator.

Passport to Fun Fair!

Mark your calendar for our 55th annual Fun Fair from 10 am to 2 pm on Saturday, March 18, 2023! The Spring Hill PTO is continuing this beloved tradition - transforming our school into a carnival to bring our community together. We are looking for volunteers to help organize and prepare the activities and infrastructure that make this event possible. Visit our VOLUNTEER SIGN-UP FORM to join the team that will bring FUN to Fun Fair!

 

Stay tuned for:

* Volunteer sign-ups for both adults and middle and high school students volunteers for the day of Fun Fair

* Online pre-sales of tickets with significant discounts for bulk purchases

* T-shirts are back! All sales this year will be online so stay tuned!

* More information on amazing raffle prizes, Candy Clock creation donations, and Spirit Week theme days!

FCPS Parent Resource Center Supporting Mental Health Through Play

Join us for a 2-part interactive session designed for parents, caregivers, and educators to discover how incorporating more unstructured play & sensory foundational activities to support all young children’s development, including children with special needs and mental health concerns. 

Session #1 Highlights: View the individual event page if you would like to share this event with others.

• The power of unstructured play in creating opportunities to build executive functioning skills
• Differences in play experiences over the past 30-40 years
• Benefits and Ways of incorporating  unstructured play into a child’s day

Session #2 Highlights: View the individual event page if you would like to share this event with others.

• Angie Voss’ “power sensations” (movement & touch) 
• Reflecting on our own temperaments, including sensory preferences, in order to provide a “goodness of fit” for our child or student
• Creating an environment where all young children can thrive

This webinar is presented by Early Childhood Special Education Assistant Director, Amber Gant, with George Mason’s Training and Technical Assistance Center. 

Session 1: February 17, 2023, 10-11:30 a.m.

Session 2: February 24, 2023, 10-11:30 a.m.

Register for Supporting Mental Health Through Play

Important Dates

February 20 - George Washington’s Birthday and Presidents’ Day 

March 2 - Two-Hour Early Release

March 3 - Student Holiday/Professional Workday

March 18 - Fun Fair 

March 30 - Staff Basketball Game

April 13 - Kindergarten Registration (2:30-3:30 PM)

8201 Lewinsville Road McLean, VA 22102 | Main Office: 703-506-3400
Attendance: 703-506-3434 | Web