FCPS

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Author Candace Fleming Visit

We were thrilled to host Candace Fleming at KG.  The students were engaged and thoroughly enjoyed her visit.  #kgpride  

Plan Forward - Dates to Mark on Your Calendar

March 3 - 4/6 ~ March Picture Book Madness - Read and vote each week!

March 31 - School Holiday - Eid  

April 1 - Teacher Workday (No school for students)

April 1 - Rising Parent and Student Kindergarten Tours - 2 p.m. (Sign up here)

April 3 - Rising 7th Graders - Parent and Student Panel - 6 p.m. See info below for details.

April 4 - Class Group Picture Day! 

April 7 - Quarter 3 Progress Reports Available in ParentVue

April 7 - Jennifer Nielson - Author Presentation Grades 4 - 6  Order forms here

April 8 - Silver Diner Fundraiser - 4  - 8 p.m.  20% comes back to KGES!

April 9 - Purple Up Day! Wear Purple!  

April 25 - Bingo Night Save the Date ! Sign up here to attend!

May 3 - Spring Spectacular Fun Run and 5K

2024-25 FCPS School Calendar

Upcoming Longfellow Visit at KG! April 3 ~ 6 p.m.

Calling all Future Longfellow Lancer Families!

Please join us for an informative and engaging Parent & Student Panel on April 3rd at 6 p.m. in the cafeteria at Kent Gardens.  You will hear from current Longfellow students and parents that came from Kent Gardens.  They will share to expect as you transition to 7th grade such as classes, homework, clubs and activities, making new friends, and managing lockers. Parents will also have the opportunity to ask questions and learn about resources available to support their child's transition to middle school. This is a fantastic chance to get a head start and ease any anxieties about the exciting journey ahead. We look forward to seeing you there!

Month of the Military Child

April is the Month of the Military Child, a time to honor and celebrate the resilience, courage, and contributions of FCPS military-connected children. 

To show our support, FCPS will celebrate Purple Up! Day on Wednesday, April 9, 2025. Please note that this date has been adjusted to align with our spring break schedule. On this day, school staff and students are encouraged to wear purple, symbolizing unity and support for military families across all service branches.

 Administration Notes

Dear Parents, 

We enjoyed hearing the all county chorus on Saturday.  A truly enjoyable concert - thanks to Ms. Paik and Ms. Lee for supporting the students. 

We do have an opportunity for our rising 7th graders to chat with a panel of students and Dr. Jim Patrick from Longfellow on April 3rd at 6 p.m. We look forward to seeing our current sixth grade parents and students in the cafeteria.

We look forward to seeing our new kindergarten students and parents on April 1st at 2 p.m. Here is the link to slide deck so you can access on your own time.  Note that we would like everyone to complete the kindergarten interest form, tour sign up and lastly register.  

Last but not least, purchase your yearbook now for your child(ren).  We have extended the date through this week! See the information below! 

Note that school is closed on Monday, 3/31 for Eid.  In addition, April 1st is a teacher workday. Thanks as always for your support! 

Warmly,

Holly McGuigan       Tia Hawkins                Sarah Talley

Principal                   Assistant Principal      Assistant Principal

Jennifer Nielsen - April 7th

We are so excited to welcome New York Times bestselling author Jennifer Neilson to Kent Gardens next month!  She will be talking to students in 4TH-6TH GRADE on Monday, April 7th.

Mrs. Hershey is organizing a pre-order of her most popular books so that your student can have them signed during her visit. These ORDER FORMS ARE DUE NEXT FRIDAY, MARCH 28TH. A link to the order form is here, but paper copies can also be picked up in the Kent Gardens library. This is a wonderful opportunity for our students! A huge thank you to Mrs. Hershey and our Kent Gardens staff for making it possible.

March Picture Book Madness

📚🏀 First Annual Kent Gardens March Madness Reading Challenge! 🏀📚 

Are you ready for it?  We have the final two books!  Vote to help choose the winner of the First KG March Madness Reading Challenge!

🔹 Final Round: Vote by Wednesday, April 2.

The winner will be announced next week!

Click here to have access. #kgpride #StrongerTogether #WeAllBelong

Student Class Placement 2025-26 ~ Parent Input Opportunity

Here is the link to provide input on your child(ren)'s class placement.  Note that we will do our best to use your input but cannot make guarantees.  We appreciate your continued partnership! Here is the link to provide input - it will be open until April 11th. Thanks! 

Student Intentions - 2025-26 School Year 

Please indicate your child(ren)'s intention for the next school year if you are moving or will attend another school. One form should be completed for each child ONLY if you are moving or will attend another school. This input will support our staffing and planning for the next school year. This information is non binding but will simply be used to plan. If you are returning, you do NOT need to complete this form. The link to the form is here.

Kindergarten Registration

If you have a child who will be 5 years old by September 30, they are eligible to attend Kindergarten for the upcoming year. Registration paperwork can be downloaded at this link. Once you have completed the paperwork and gathered the required documents, please come into the front office to meet with our registrar, Annie Joseph. 

Alternatively, you can now choose to use online registration tool.  If you choose the online option, you will then have to come into the office with the child’s original birth certificate, your proof of residence (deed/lease) and your ID.  You can contact Annie Joseph to coordinate a convenient time. 

Rising Kindergarten Student Intention 2025-26

Please complete this form if you have a rising kindergartner and plan on attending Kent Gardens. If you are hopeful to attend, you may complete but please note your status in the form below. We are not using this data for evaluative purposes nor for placement purposes but merely to collect information for the beginning of the school year. All students come in at various levels academically and socially. We are excited for our 2025-26 kindergarten students! 

Kindergarten Parent Information Meeting took place on March 21st.  Here is the link to review the slide deck.

The Parent Tour and Kindergarten Student Orientation is on Tuesday, April  at 1st 2:00 p.m. (Parents and students attend together) Link is here to reserve your tour time.  

Dear Families,

This week, our school community will focus on the character strength of Humor. Humor means enjoying laughter and bringing smiles to others.

Humor helps us see the lighter side of things, making tough times easier and more fun. It doesn't mean you have to tell jokes, but people with humor often notice the funny moments in life and share them with others. Humor can lift people's spirits and help them through challenges. It’s important to help students understand how to use humor in a kind way, to lift others up, and never at someone else's expense.

To practice and encourage the character strength of humor at home, please visit The Positivity Project’s mobile-friendly P2 for Families (available in English and Spanish), where you will watch a video together and discuss a quote and three questions. Below are links to this week’s P2 for Families lessons. Click on the grade level that best meets your child’s needs. 

Pre-K–K

Grades 1–2

Grades 3–5

Grades 6–8

Grades 9–12

News from Shelley Lowinger - Parent Liaison

Infant/Toddler Resources and Child Find - Help and Resources for Infants, Toddlers, and Their Families - Are you concerned about your infant, toddler, or preschool-aged child's development? Resources are available if your child exhibits difficulties in one or more of the following areas: communication,.  fine and/or gross motor skills, self-help skills, problem solving; attention skills. Learn more about typical developmental milestones.The Infant & Toddler Connection of Virginia (ITC) is the state’s early intervention system for infants and toddlers (0-36 months) with disabilities and their families. ITC provides evaluations and services for children who have developmental delays or medical conditions that may affect development. Parents are encouraged to contact ITC at 703-246-7121 to share their concerns. Early Childhood Child Find is the process of identifying children with potential special education needs between the ages of 20 months and 5 years (children must be two by September 30).  FCPS Early Childhood Identification and Services (ECID&S) offers a free referral process to identify potential developmental delays or disabilities. Special education services are provided for all children who are found eligible through the referral process. Parents are encouraged to contact 571-423-4121 with questions or to make a referral. Helping students meet the criteria for kindergarten readiness is Goal 1 of the Strategic Plan.

Northern Virginia Public Health Conference - Empowered Communities invites families to their 2025 Annual Northern Virginia Public Health Conference on Friday, April 4 from 9am to 3:30pm at the Potomac Science Center in Woodbridge.  More information can be found in the attached flyer.

April Workshops from the Family Resource Center - SIB Shops- 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! This session will be hosted at 3001 Vaden Dr. Fairfax on April 1, 1 - 4:00 P.M.   Register here

Sib Teen- SibTeen is a community-building group for middle school siblings of children with disabilities. We have fun activities, both recreational and art-based, as well as discussion activities. It’s a unique opportunity for students to share about their lives and support each other while normalizing their life experiences. This session will be hosted at 12111 Braddock Rd, Fairfax on April 1, 1 - 4:00P.M.      Register here

Understand Executive Function Milestones, Challenges, & Implement Effective Strategies at Home for Adolescents in High School - Discover how to support your child’s executive function skills in our webinar series. We will present information on understanding your child’s developmental milestones, recognizing signs of executive dysfunction, and implementing effective strategies to support their learning at home and in school on April 4, 10- 11:30  A.M.    Register here

Buy the Yearbook Now! 

The QR code above and the link is here to purchase the yearbook. Use code 21772. We will close the purchase window April 4.  Buy now to ensure you will have a yearbook for your child(ren)! 

We will be remitting you a confirmation email to families that HAVE purchased.  Our goal is to ensure that we are able to confirm purchases prior to the end of the year. Thanks!

Join us for Bingo Night!

It's baaaack! Join us Friday, April 25th for a night of prizes, raffles, food, and BINGO!  TICKETS ARE REQUIRED. Tickets which include your bingo cards are required for entry so register NOW as this event WILL SELL OUT! Add a pizza bundle (2 slices of pizza and 1 bottle of water) for $16/person! Pizza is available as a pre-order ONLY! But bring cash for other concessions and our 50/50 raffle!

THIS IS NOT A DROP-OFF EVENT! All students must be accompanied by a responsible adult!

DONATE PRIZES - We are looking for new or gently used toys/games/puzzles for Bingo Night prizes which can be dropped off in the designated box located in the office!  Want to donate, but need ideas?  Visit this Amazon link for inspiration! Questions? Email [email protected].

Silver Diner Opportunity!

Join the KG community at Silver Diner on April 8th.  20% of incremental sales will go to our school when you 'dine in' or order to go!   Come between 4 - 8 pm.  on April 8th at the Tysons location - 

8101 Fletcher St. McLean, VA 22101

We look forward to seeing you and your families there! 

 

⏰ Coming Soon: School Start Times Survey

Last year, FCPS held community forums and surveyed middle school families regarding middle school start times. Now, we would like to hear from all staff and families on the possibility of adjusting school start times across the division. The goal remains to begin middle school at 8 a.m. or later at the start of the 2026-27 school year.

On April 1, a survey link will be sent by email to staff, parents/caregivers, and students in grades 5-12. The confidential survey will be open for two weeks and will be available in multiple languages.

An Opportunity to Support!

Some of our past KG students have created this opportunity to 'give back'!  We will have box in the lobby. Some ideas include the following: coloring books, crayons, markers, colored pencils, stickers and any crafts to keep the children occupied with some creativity mind! 

PTA News

PTA membership for the school year costs $20 and is about more than monthly meetings and the odd event here and there. The PTA supports schools and that means staff, teachers, students and their families in ways that go beyond what any one group would be capable of on their own. Make joining the PTA at Kent Gardens a priority. We can't be the PTA we are without parents and other caring adults like YOU!

We are still searching for a President Elect to join our PTA board.  Contact Jenny Gregory, PTA President for more information

Guest Speaker - Mary Wilcox Smith

We enjoyed having Mary Wilcox Smith this week at the PTA meeting.  We will share her presentation soon.  

 

Make a Difference This Year! - Volunteer Opportunities

Spring Fun Fair! Interested in helping plan our 2025 5k and fun run? Want to design the t-shirt? Choose the medals? File the permits (you know you want to!)? Coordinate the Volunteers? Maybe you want to find the food trucks? Or DJ the event? Join our planning call via ZOOM on Thursday 2/27 at 7pm. Need the link? Email Event Coordinator Alyssa.

Teacher and Staff Love Wednesdays  The KGES Wellness Committee has shared that teachers and staff LOVE when there is coffee/tea available for them in the lounge...and they REALLY love treats! Help us shower our teachers and staff with love every Wednesday this year by bringing in coffee/tea, snacks, bags of mini candies, or whatever goodies you think might help sweeten their day.  You can also help stack the staff lounge with paper plates/cups/napkins...etc. Please choose a slot to volunteer and drop off in the Staff Lounge by 8am on Wednesdays to show some love and support for our fabulous teachers and staff.

KGES Food Bus Food Rescue Program Volunteers Needed Do you have a half-hour to spare on Friday afternoons to deliver food to SHARE of McLean Food Pantry at McLean Baptist Church? Interested in getting involved in this program? Please sign up HERE and/or email [email protected] or [email protected] with questions. Service hours available for middle/high school students! Thank you for your ongoing support. We could not do this amazing program without you!

All County Chorus

Thanks to Ms. Paik and Ms. Lee, our fabulous music teachers, our all county chorus sixth graders participated with the FCPS other sixth grade students.  It was a wonderful concert! 

1717 Melbourne Drive, McLean, VA 22101 |  Phone: 703.394.5600  

 Attendance: 703.394.5656 or [email protected]

Web | Twitter

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Leprechaun Fun!   Plan Forward - Dates to Mark on Your Calendar

March 3 - 4/6 ~ March Picture Book Madness - Read and vote each week!

March 25 - Author Candace Fleming will join us!  Order here! 

March 27 - PTA Meeting ~Guest Speaker - Mary Smith  7 p.m.

April 1 - Rising Parent and Student Kindergarten Tours - 2 p.m. (Sign up here)

April 4 - Class Group Picture Day! 

April 7 - Quarter 3 Progress Reports Available in ParentVue

April 7 - Jennifer Nielson - Author Presentation Grades 4 - 6  Order forms here

April 8 - Silver Diner Fundraiser - 4  - 8 p.m.  20% comes back to KGES!

April 9 - Purple Up Day! Wear Purple!  

April 25 - Bingo Night Save the Date ! Sign up here to attend!

May 3 - Spring Spectacular Fun Run and 5K

2024-25 FCPS School Calendar

 Administration Notes

Dear Parents, 

We enjoyed hosting the virtual kindergarten orientation for our parents.  Here is the link to slide deck so you can access on your own time.  Note that we would like everyone to complete the kindergarten interest form, tour sign up and lastly register.  

Class placement discussions will be taking place soon.  Here is a link for parents to provide your input.  We will close this opportunity on April 11th.  Thanks in advance for your partnership with us!  We cannot guarantee requests but will do our best.

Join us for the evening PTA meeting on March 27th at 7 p.m.  The PTA has a guest speaker, Mary Smith. She is a Parent Coach, Speaker, and Author of the book Small Moments, The MicroStep Method® for the Overwhelmed Parent. Join us while she speaks on The Power of Small: How simple shifts can turn overwhelm into connection and resilience.  Join us to hear stories and insights on how small shifts can have meaningful and lasting change.

Last but not least, purchase your yearbook now for your child(ren).  We have extended the date through this week! See the information below! 

Thanks as always for your support! 

Warmly,

Holly McGuigan       Tia Hawkins                Sarah Talley

Principal                   Assistant Principal      Assistant Principal

Jennifer Nielsen - April 7th

We are so excited to welcome New York Times bestselling author Jennifer Neilson to Kent Gardens next month!  She will be talking to students in 4TH-6TH GRADE on Monday, April 7th.

Mrs. Hershey is organizing a pre-order of her most popular books so that your student can have them signed during her visit. These ORDER FORMS ARE DUE NEXT FRIDAY, MARCH 28TH. A link to the order form is here, but paper copies can also be picked up in the Kent Gardens library. This is a wonderful opportunity for our students! A huge thank you to Mrs. Hershey and our Kent Gardens staff for making it possible.

March Picture Book Madness

This challenge will last the month of March!  Join us in reading and enjoying the books.  Click on this link to have access to the books and vote! We will vote every week for the month of march!  Get ready to dive into the First Annual Kent Gardens March Madness Reading Challenge Book Tournament Bracket! Each round, books will face off, and your votes will determine which book moves forward until only two finalists remain.   Link here!

📚🏀 First Annual Kent Gardens March Madness Reading Challenge! 🏀📚 

We are at the Final Four! 🔹 Round 3:  Vote by Wednesday, 3/26 

📢 How to Vote: Links for each new round will be shared via News You Choose and Schoology after votes from the previous round are tallied. 📖🎉 Join us in the reading madness and help crown this year’s champion book! Let the tournament begin! Click here to have access. #kgpride #StrongerTogether #WeAllBelong

Student Class Placement 2025-26 ~ Parent Input Opportunity

Here is the link to provide input on your child(ren)'s class placement.  Note that we will do our best to use your input but cannot make guarantees.  We appreciate your continued partnership! Here is the link to provide input - it will be open until April 11th. Thanks! 

Student Intentions - 2025-26 School Year 

Please indicate your child(ren)'s intention for the next school year if you are moving or will attend another school. One form should be completed for each child ONLY if you are moving or will attend another school. This input will support our staffing and planning for the next school year. This information is non binding but will simply be used to plan. If you are returning, you do NOT need to complete this form. The link to the form is here.

Kindergarten Registration

If you have a child who will be 5 years old by September 30, they are eligible to attend Kindergarten for the upcoming year. Registration paperwork can be downloaded at this link. Once you have completed the paperwork and gathered the required documents, please come into the front office to meet with our registrar, Annie Joseph. 

Alternatively, you can now choose to use online registration tool.  If you choose the online option, you will then have to come into the office with the child’s original birth certificate, your proof of residence (deed/lease) and your ID.  You can contact Annie Joseph to coordinate a convenient time. 

Rising Kindergarten Student Intention 2025-26

Please complete this form if you have a rising kindergartner and plan on attending Kent Gardens. If you are hopeful to attend, you may complete but please note your status in the form below. We are not using this data for evaluative purposes nor for placement purposes but merely to collect information for the beginning of the school year. All students come in at various levels academically and socially. We are excited for our 2025-26 kindergarten students! 

Kindergarten Parent Information Meeting took place on March 21st.  Here is the link to review the slide deck.

The Parent Tour and Kindergarten Student Orientation is on Tuesday, April  at 1st 2:00 p.m. (Parents and students attend together) Link is here to reserve your tour time.  

Author Visit ~ Candace Fleming - 3/25

We are thrilled to have author, Candace Fleming, come to KG on March 25! She has written over 50 books with flair for creating stories that capture the hearts of readers of all ages! Ms. Fleming will sign copies of her books for KGES students. 

Dear Families,

This week, we are reviewing all of our positive attributes.  Enjoy being positive! 

Pre-K–K

Grades 1–2

Grades 3–5

Grades 6–8

Grades 9–12

News from Shelley Lowinger - Parent Liaison

Upcoming Family Resource Center Workshops

Calming the Chaos: Teaching Emotional Regulation to Twice-Exceptional (2e) Students on March 25, 2025, 10 - 11:30 a.m. Join Dr. Oladimeji as she supports families to understand the unique emotional regulation challenges of Twice Exceptional (2e) students, including the interaction between giftedness and disabilities, identify proactive strategies to help 2e students recognize, express, and manage emotions effectively, Implement practical tools and techniques at home to foster emotional self-regulation and resilience and collaborate with schools and professionals to support emotional growth in their child’s academic and social environments. Register here

SIB Shops - 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! This session will be hosted at 3001 Vaden Dr. Fairfax. On April 1, 1 - 4:00 P.M.   Register here

Sib Teen - SibTeen is a community-building group for middle school siblings of children with disabilities. We have fun activities, both recreational and art-based, as well as discussion activities. It’s a unique opportunity for students to share about their lives and support each other while normalizing their life experiences. This session will be hosted at 12111 Braddock Rd, Fairfax on April 1, 1 - 4:00P.M. Register here

Fairfax County Park Authority Camps and Classes for Adults -Pickleball lessons, art classes, adventure camp and more!  Fun is not just for kids in Fairfax — take some much-needed selfcare time and take a peek at these camps and classes specifically for adults.

Buy the Yearbook Now! 

The QR code above and the link is here to purchase the yearbook. Use code 21772. We will close the purchase window March 24.  Buy now to ensure you will have a yearbook for your child(ren)! 

We will be remitting you a confirmation email to families that HAVE purchased.  Our goal is to ensure that we are able to confirm purchases prior to the end of the year. Thanks!

🚀 Prepare for a Summer of Learning and Fun

Registration will be available soon for summer camps offered by Fairfax County Public Schools for all students. Career and Technical Education (CTE) camps and Institute for the Arts (IFTA) camps will be held in July at Lake Braddock Secondary School from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bus transportation will be available from select FCPS middle and high schools. Registration begins for these programs on Monday, March 10, and ends Friday, June 6.

Tech Adventure Camp (TAC) is a week-long exploratory camp designed to allow current K-5 students to explore activities in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math), culinary arts, health, trades, and business and marketing areas. Watch this video about CTE camps.

E-IFTAis a weekly arts camp for students in grades 2-5 who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Students take part in four daily classes related to dance, music, theater, and visual art. They work with FCPS fine arts teachers who create fun and engaging classes. For more information, see the Summer Learning page.

Join us for Bingo Night!

It's baaaack! Join us Friday, April 25th for a night of prizes, raffles, food, and BINGO!  TICKETS ARE REQUIRED. Tickets which include your bingo cards are required for entry so register NOW as this event WILL SELL OUT! Add a pizza bundle (2 slices of pizza and 1 bottle of water) for $16/person! Pizza is available as a pre-order ONLY! But bring cash for other concessions and our 50/50 raffle!

THIS IS NOT A DROP-OFF EVENT! All students must be accompanied by a responsible adult!

DONATE PRIZES - We are looking for new or gently used toys/games/puzzles for Bingo Night prizes which can be dropped off in the designated box located in the office!  Want to donate, but need ideas?  Visit this Amazon link for inspiration! Questions? Email [email protected].

Women's History Month

Join us in celebrating Women's History Month! We recognized Women in Music and Art this past Friday on March 7th.  We have the following dates whereby students can wear Spirit Wear!

March 28 - Empowered Women

Silver Diner Opportunity!

Join the KG community at Silver Diner on April 8th.  20% of incremental sales will go to our school when you 'dine in' or order to go!   Come between 4 - 8 pm.  on April 8th at the Tysons location - 

8101 Fletcher St. McLean, VA 22101

We look forward to seeing you and your families there! 

 

Next Steps in the Budget Process

The next steps in the FCPS FY 2026 Budget process include the School Board presenting the budget to the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, April 22. The Board of Supervisors will then conduct public hearings Tuesday, April 22, through Thursday, April 24. Community members can submit testimony or sign up to speak. 

Visit the county government website to view the Fairfax County FY 2026 Advertised Budget. The community is also invited to complete an online survey to provide feedback on the county’s FY 2026 Advertised Budget. 

Learn more about the FCPS FY 2026 Budget process.

Give Your Kids a Strong Start: Apply for Early Childhood Education Programs 

FCPS Pre-K and Early Head Start programs provide a high-quality early learning experience for qualifying children with economic and educational risk factors ages 6 weeks to 4 years living in Fairfax County. Pre-K prioritizes 4-year-old applicants but also accepts applications for children 3 years old by September 30. Early Head Start is located at three elementary schools — Clearview, Crestwood, and Dogwood — and accepts applications from expectant mothers and for children 6 weeks to 2 years old.

Families are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, however, space is limited and provided based on need, not “first come, first serve.” Applications are accepted online, by email, by postal mail, or in person at our office at 7423 Camp Alger Avenue, Falls Church, Virginia 22042.  If you have a question about the application process or status, please call 703-208-7900 (English) or 703-208-7901 (Spanish).

An Opportunity to Support!

Some of our past KG students have created this opportunity to 'give back'!  We will have box in the lobby. Some ideas include the following: coloring books, crayons, markers, colored pencils, stickers and any crafts to keep the children occupied with some creativity mind! 

PTA News

PTA membership for the school year costs $20 and is about more than monthly meetings and the odd event here and there. The PTA supports schools and that means staff, teachers, students and their families in ways that go beyond what any one group would be capable of on their own. Make joining the PTA at Kent Gardens a priority. We can't be the PTA we are without parents and other caring adults like YOU!

We are still searching for a President Elect to join our PTA board.  Contact Jenny Gregory, PTA President for more information

Our Next PTA Meeting: March 27 7 p.m.

We are still searching for a President Elect to join our PTA board.  Contact Jenny Gregory, PTA President for more information!

PTA Meeting and Guest Speaker - 

This year, our evening PTA Meeting will be held on Thursday, March 27th at 7pm. We will have a quick meeting, followed by our guest of honor, Mary Willcox Smith. Ms. Smith is a Parent Coach, Speaker, and Author of the book Small Moments, The MicroStep Method® for the Overwhelmed Parent. Join us while she speaks on The Power of Small: How simple shifts can turn overwhelm into connection and resilience.In this engaging presentation, filled with humor, real-life stories, and transformative insights, you’ll discover how to turn daily struggles into small shifts that spark lasting change—helping you parent with confidence and ease. Parents may submit questions prior to the evening here.

Make a Difference This Year! - Volunteer Opportunities

Spring Fun Fair! Interested in helping plan our 2025 5k and fun run? Want to design the t-shirt? Choose the medals? File the permits (you know you want to!)? Coordinate the Volunteers? Maybe you want to find the food trucks? Or DJ the event? Join our planning call via ZOOM on Thursday 2/27 at 7pm. Need the link? Email Event Coordinator Alyssa.

Teacher and Staff Love Wednesdays  The KGES Wellness Committee has shared that teachers and staff LOVE when there is coffee/tea available for them in the lounge...and they REALLY love treats! Help us shower our teachers and staff with love every Wednesday this year by bringing in coffee/tea, snacks, bags of mini candies, or whatever goodies you think might help sweeten their day.  You can also help stack the staff lounge with paper plates/cups/napkins...etc. Please choose a slot to volunteer and drop off in the Staff Lounge by 8am on Wednesdays to show some love and support for our fabulous teachers and staff.

KGES Food Bus Food Rescue Program Volunteers Needed Do you have a half-hour to spare on Friday afternoons to deliver food to SHARE of McLean Food Pantry at McLean Baptist Church? Interested in getting involved in this program? Please sign up HERE and/or email [email protected] or [email protected] with questions. Service hours available for middle/high school students! Thank you for your ongoing support. We could not do this amazing program without you!

Third Grade Field Trip Fun! 

1717 Melbourne Drive, McLean, VA 22101 |  Phone: 703.394.5600  

 Attendance: 703.394.5656 or [email protected]

Web | Twitter

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

Literacy Night Fun! 

Thanks to our teachers for hosting fun activities and engaging in literacy! 

Plan Forward - Dates to Mark on Your Calendar

March 3 - 4/6 ~ March Picture Book Madness - Read and vote each week!

March 17 - Three Hour Early Release

March 21 - Yearbook Order Deadline 3/21  - code 21772 -Have you ordered

March 21 - Kent Gardens' Washington Wizards game -  link here! 

March 21 - Kindergarten Parent Virtual Orientation - 8 am. (Sign Up Here)

March 25 - Author Candace Fleming will join us!  Order here! 

March 27 - PTA Meeting ~Guest Speaker - Mary Smith  7 p.m.

April 1 - Rising Parent and Student Kindergarten Tours - 2 p.m. (Sign up here)

April 4 - Class Group Picture Day! 

April 7 - Quarter 3 Progress Reports Available in ParentVue

April 9 - Purple Up Day! Order a t shirt here from FCPS. 

April 25 - Bingo Night Save the Date ! More to Follow!

May 3 - Spring Spectacular Fun Run and 5K

2024-25 FCPS School Calendar

Families and Pastries ~ Book Fair

A fun way to visit the Book Fair and enjoy a small pastry!  Thanks to our fabulous PTA and Karen Hershey/Shahrzad Nabaki as well as other volunteers!  It takes a village!  

 Administration Notes

Dear Parents, 

We have had a whirlwind start to March! Our events have included Literacy Night, Book Fair, Spring Pictures, March Book Madness (ongoing), McLean Youth Art exhibits, and more! 

Note that the student spring pictures are available for your review/purchase. Parents should have received an email with a proof image link.  Check out the additional information below. 

In addition, we would like to thank ALL of our volunteers and coordinator, Andrea Hager, for the wonderful book fair.  It was a great success and paired nicely with our Literacy Night. The teachers planned wonderful reading and writing opportunities for the students.  A shout out to all who supported and to the parents who attended and participated alongside your child(ren).

Class placement discussions will be taking place soon.  Below is a link for parents to provide your input.  We will close this opportunity on April 11th.  Thanks in advance for your partnership with us!  We cannot guarantee requests but will do our best.

We have a three hour early release on Monday. We have worked to ensure that we have accurate departures for all students. Note that last minute changes are very challenging and we work to ensure safety for ALL.  If you have to make a change, please ensure that you designate whether it is at 12:35 or 3:35 p.m.  

Thanks as always for your support! 

Warmly,

Holly McGuigan       Tia Hawkins                Sarah Talley

Principal                   Assistant Principal      Assistant Principal

Spring Individual Pictures

Victor O'Neill Studios recently held Spring portrait day at our schools and Spring pictures are now online. Families will receive a proof image link via email. Please remember to check your spam. We are pleased to offer free shipping on orders placed for the next two weeks until March 24, 2025.  For any questions about your student's school pictures please contact: [email protected]

March Picture Book Madness

This challenge will last the month of March!  Join us in reading and enjoying the books.  Click on this link to have access to the books and vote! We will vote every week for the month of march!  Get ready to dive into the First Annual Kent Gardens March Madness Reading Challenge Book Tournament Bracket! Each round, books will face off, and your votes will determine which book moves forward until only two finalists remain. 

  Link here!

🔹 Round 2: Vote by 3/19

🔹 Round 3:  Vote by 3/26 

🔹 Round 4 (Finals!): Vote by 4/21

📢 How to Vote: Links for each new round will be shared via News You Choose and Schoology after votes from the previous round are tallied. 📖🎉 Join us in the reading madness and help crown this year’s champion book! Let the tournament begin! Click here to have access. #kgpride #StrongerTogether #WeAllBelong

Student Class Placement 2025-26 ~ Parent Input Opportunity

Here is the link to provide input on your child(ren)'s class placement.  Note that we will do our best to use your input but cannot make guarantees.  We appreciate your continued partnership! Here is the link to provide input - it will be open until April 11th. Thanks! 

Student Intentions - 2025-26 School Year 

Please indicate your child(ren)'s intention for the next school year if you are moving or will attend another school. One form should be completed for each child ONLY if you are moving or will attend another school. This input will support our staffing and planning for the next school year. This information is non binding but will simply be used to plan. If you are returning, you do NOT need to complete this form. The link to the form is here.

Kindergarten Student/Parent Tours - Sixth Grade Students Needed

On April 1st (School Planning Day), we will host our new kindergarten families and students.  We would love to have our sixth grade students support in giving the tours.  Sign up with a friend(s) and we will place you in groups of 2 - 4 for the tours. Sign up here! 

Kindergarten Registration

If you have a child who will be 5 years old by September 30, they are eligible to attend Kindergarten for the upcoming year. Registration paperwork can be downloaded at this link. Once you have completed the paperwork and gathered the required documents, please come into the front office to meet with our registrar, Annie Joseph. 

Alternatively, you can now choose to use online registration tool.  If you choose the online option, you will then have to come into the office with the child’s original birth certificate, your proof of residence (deed/lease) and your ID.  You can contact Annie Joseph to coordinate a convenient time. 

Rising Kindergarten Student Intention 2025-26

Please complete this form if you have a rising kindergartner and plan on attending Kent Gardens. If you are hopeful to attend, you may complete but please note your status in the form below. We are not using this data for evaluative purposes nor for placement purposes but merely to collect information for the beginning of the school year. All students come in at various levels academically and socially. We are excited for our 2025-26 kindergarten students! 

Kindergarten Parent Information Meeting will be through Zoom (link to follow) on March 21st at 8 a.m.  Sign up here to receive the link.

The Parent Tour and Kindergarten Student Orientation is on Tuesday, April  at 1st 2:00 p.m. (Parents and students attend together) Link is here to reserve your tour time.  

Author Visit ~ Candace Fleming - 3/25

We are thrilled to have author, Candace Fleming, come to KG on March 25! She has written over 50 books with flair for creating stories that capture the hearts of readers of all ages! Ms. Fleming will sign copies of her books for KGES students. To order books in time for signing, use THIS order form and return it to Mrs. Hershey in the library by MARCH 11! Forms received AFTER March 11 cannot be ordered. So many wonderful books! 

Dear Families,

This week, our school community will focus on the Other People Mindset of Identifying and appreciating the good in others. It’s important to deliberately work to identify and appreciate others’ character strengths. It’s not always easy to notice people’s strengths, but it’s something we should all practice.  Often, it’s easier to blame others or focus on their mistakes, which can lead to negative feelings like jealousy or frustration. This negativity can create problems, not just for us but also for our relationships with others.

When we make an effort to see the good in people, we start to see the world in a more positive way. If we always focus on the bad, it feels like we’re surrounded by negativity, which makes us defensive and stressed. This doesn’t mean we should ignore reality or pretend everything is perfect, but we should try to understand others and recognize their good intentions. When we see the good in others, they are more likely to see the good in us.

To practice and encourage the Other People Mindset at home, please visit The Positivity Project’s mobile-friendly P2 for Families (available in English and Spanish), where you will watch a video together and discuss a quote and three questions. Below are links to this week’s P2 for Families lessons. Click on the grade level that best meets your child’s needs.

Pre-K–K

Grades 1–2

Grades 3–5

Grades 6–8

Grades 9–12

News from Shelley Lowinger - Parent Liaison

March Workshops from the Family Resource Center - Supporting Mental Health: Recognizing and Addressing Anxiety and Depression in Teens - Part 3 of our Teen Series with Dr. Unnatti Jain, a Certified Behavior Change Expert / TEDx speaker / Author / Keynote speaker who studies behavioral patterns.  Dr. Jain will help caretakers and families identify mental health symptoms, enhance communication skills, and explore professional and self-care strategies.  Wednesday, March 19, 2025, 10 - 11:30 a.m.   Register here  

Calming the Chaos: Teaching Emotional Regulation to Twice-Exceptional (2e) Students - Join Dr. Oladimeji as she supports families to understand the unique emotional regulation challenges of Twice Exceptional (2e) students, including the interaction between giftedness and disabilities, identify proactive strategies to help 2e students recognize, express, and manage emotions effectively, Implement practical tools and techniques at home to foster emotional self-regulation and resilience and collaborate with schools and professionals to support emotional growth in their child’s academic and social environments.  Tuesday, March 25, 2025, 10 - 11:30 a.m.  Register here

Fairfax County Park Authority Spring Classes - Fairfax County Park Authority offers a variety of spring and summer classes.  Registration for 2025 spring and summer camps is open!  Here is the link for the Fairfax County Park Authority’s Guide for Spring classes.   Summer camps and classes offered by the Park Authority can be found here.

The English Empowerment Center:  English and Workforce Readiness Class - The English Empowerment Center is hosting an Intensive English and Workforce Readiness Class.  Spring semester sign-up will be on Tuesday, March 18, and the course will begin in April. Flyer HERE 

Crisis Energy Assistance - The application period for the Crisis Assistance component of Energy Assistance ends this Monday, March 17th at 11:59 pm.  Crisis Assistance can help eligible households with equipment related repairs, primary heat utility security deposits and payment of the primary heat source utility bill. The maximum benefit for Crisis Assistance bill pay 2025 is $450.00.  Applications ONLINE at www.commonhelp.virginia.gov

Applications for Energy Assistance are accepted Online: www.commonhelp.virginia.gov  phone: Enterprise Customer Service Center (855) 635-4370 By email: Completed applications can be sent to [email protected]

Buy the Yearbook Now! 

The QR code above and the link is here to purchase the yearbook. Use code 21772. We will close the purchase window March 21, 2025.  Buy now to ensure you will have a yearbook for your child(ren)! 

We will be remitting you a confirmation email to families that HAVE purchased.  Our goal is to ensure that we are able to confirm purchases prior to the end of the year. Thanks!

🚀 Prepare for a Summer of Learning and Fun

Registration will be available soon for summer camps offered by Fairfax County Public Schools for all students. Career and Technical Education (CTE) camps and Institute for the Arts (IFTA) camps will be held in July at Lake Braddock Secondary School from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bus transportation will be available from select FCPS middle and high schools. Registration begins for these programs on Monday, March 10, and ends Friday, June 6.

Tech Adventure Camp (TAC) is a week-long exploratory camp designed to allow current K-5 students to explore activities in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math), culinary arts, health, trades, and business and marketing areas. Watch this video about CTE camps.

E-IFTAis a weekly arts camp for students in grades 2-5 who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Students take part in four daily classes related to dance, music, theater, and visual art. They work with FCPS fine arts teachers who create fun and engaging classes. For more information, see the Summer Learning page.

STEAM Fun! 

Thanks to a generous grant from Educate Fairfax, our students have enjoyed building and working with KEVA Plans!  So much fun!! 

Women's History Month

Join us in celebrating Women's History Month! We recognized Women in Music and Art this past Friday on March 7th.  We have the following dates whereby students can wear Spirit Wear!

March 21 - Women in Science

March 28 - Empowered Women

FCPS Budget — Our Students Deserve the Best More than $240 million of FCPS’ Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Advertised Budget is dedicated to increasing compensation for our teachers and staff to stay competitive and reduce turnover. Currently, FCPS ranks fifth out of eight neighboring districts in regards to starting salary for teachers with a master’s degree. Our families expect — and our students deserve — the best teachers.

Next Steps in the Budget Process - The next steps in the FCPS FY 2026 Budget process include the School Board presenting the budget to the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, April 22, and then the Board of Supervisors will conduct public hearings Tuesday, April 22, through Thursday, April 24. Community members can submit testimony or sign up to speak. Visit the county government website to view the Fairfax County FY 2026 Advertised Budget. The community is also invited to complete an online survey to provide feedback on the county’s FY 2026 Advertised Budget. Learn more about the FCPS FY 2026 Budget process. 

Chess Club Represents at Tournament!

Kent Gardens represented and achieved first place in the K-5 State Champions and placed second in the K-8 Championship!  There were individual winners as well!  #kgpride #StrongerTogether

An Opportunity to Support!

Some of our past KG students have created this opportunity to 'give back'!  We will have box in the lobby. Some ideas include the following: coloring books, crayons, markers, colored pencils, stickers and any crafts to keep the children occupied with some creativity mind! 

PTA News

PTA membership for the school year costs $20 and is about more than monthly meetings and the odd event here and there. The PTA supports schools and that means staff, teachers, students and their families in ways that go beyond what any one group would be capable of on their own. Make joining the PTA at Kent Gardens a priority. We can't be the PTA we are without parents and other caring adults like YOU!

We are still searching for a President Elect to join our PTA board.  Contact Jenny Gregory, PTA President for more information

Our Next PTA Meeting: March 27 7 p.m.

We are still searching for a President Elect to join our PTA board.  Contact Jenny Gregory, PTA President for more information!

This year, our evening PTA Meeting will be held on Thursday, March 27th at 7pm. We will have a quick meeting, followed by our guest of honor, Mary Willcox Smith. Ms. Smith is a Parent Coach, Speaker, and Author of the book Small Moments, The MicroStep Method® for the Overwhelmed Parent. Join us while she speaks on The Power of Small: How simple shifts can turn overwhelm into connection and resilience.In this engaging presentation, filled with humor, real-life stories, and transformative insights, you’ll discover how to turn daily struggles into small shifts that spark lasting change—helping you parent with confidence and ease. Parents may submit questions prior to the evening here.

Make a Difference This Year! - Volunteer Opportunities

Spring Fun Fair! Interested in helping plan our 2025 5k and fun run? Want to design the t-shirt? Choose the medals? File the permits (you know you want to!)? Coordinate the Volunteers? Maybe you want to find the food trucks? Or DJ the event? Join our planning call via ZOOM on Thursday 2/27 at 7pm. Need the link? Email Event Coordinator Alyssa.

Teacher and Staff Love Wednesdays  The KGES Wellness Committee has shared that teachers and staff LOVE when there is coffee/tea available for them in the lounge...and they REALLY love treats! Help us shower our teachers and staff with love every Wednesday this year by bringing in coffee/tea, snacks, bags of mini candies, or whatever goodies you think might help sweeten their day.  You can also help stack the staff lounge with paper plates/cups/napkins...etc. Please choose a slot to volunteer and drop off in the Staff Lounge by 8am on Wednesdays to show some love and support for our fabulous teachers and staff.

KGES Food Bus Food Rescue Program Volunteers Needed Do you have a half-hour to spare on Friday afternoons to deliver food to SHARE of McLean Food Pantry at McLean Baptist Church? Interested in getting involved in this program? Please sign up HERE and/or email [email protected] or [email protected] with questions. Service hours available for middle/high school students! Thank you for your ongoing support. We could not do this amazing program without you!

Come Watch the Wizards! 

Please join us for Kent Gardens Elementary Night at the Wizards on Friday, March 21st! All purchasers through this special link will receive a discounted ticket price, with a portion of each ticket sold will go back to Kent Gardens Elementary PTA! After the game, join us for a concert by DJ Diesel AKA Shaquille O'Neal! https://fevo-enterprise.com/event/Kent25

1717 Melbourne Drive, McLean, VA 22101 |  Phone: 703.394.5600  

 Attendance: 703.394.5656 or [email protected]

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So Many Opportunities to Enjoy School Friends!  Plan Forward - Dates to Mark on Your Calendar

March 3 - 28 ~ March Picture Book Madness - Read and vote each week!

March 4 - 16 - McLean Pyramid Youth Art Show  

March 10 - 14 - Spring Book Fair  - Parents Must attend and accompany their child(ren) for both events below)

• Parents and Pastries  March 11 - 8 - 8:45 am
• Family Night March 12 - 5 - 6:30 p.m. (same as Literacy Night)

March 12 - Literacy Night 5 - 6:30 p.m.  

March 17 - Three Hour Early Release

March 21 - Yearbook Order Deadline 3/21  - code 21772 -Have you ordered

March 21 - Kent Gardens' Washington Wizards game -  link here! 

March 21 - Kindergarten Parent Virtual Orientation - 8 am. (Sign Up Here)

March 25 - Author Candace Fleming will join us!  Order here! 

March 27 - PTA Meeting ~Guest Speaker - Mary Smith  7 p.m.

April 1 - Rising Parent and Student Kindergarten Tours - 2 p.m. (Sign up here)

April 4 - Class Group Picture Day! 

April 9 - Purple Up Day! Order a t shirt here from FCPS. 

April 25 - Bingo Night Save the Date ! More to Follow!

May 3 - Spring Spectacular Fun Run and 5K

2024-25 FCPS School Calendar

McLean Pyramid Youth Art Show

Thanks to our fabulous teachers Ms. Kladler and Ms. Leavitt!  The artwork is still open to viewing through the 16th of March.

 Administration Notes

Dear Parents, 

We look forward to seeing everyone at the Book Fair events or at Literacy Night.  Please do note that parents must accompany your child(ren) at the events.  

Remember to vote for March Book Madness - we need to vote every week!  The links are noted above in the calendar or below in the informational block. 

A gentle reminder when picking up your child(ren), we ask that you either go through kiss and ride or as a walker.  We have had many children walking through the parking lot which is truly a safety issue.  If you park, you should meet them in a designated spot by the front of the school  and walk together as a group when the kiss and ride car activity has lessened.  

Families, educators, and community members are invited to the 2025 FCPS Family Summit: Beyond Labels: Nurturing a Culture of Belonging. Fairfax County Public Schools will be hosting the free, in-person event in collaboration with valued community partners. The summit will be held Saturday, March 15, 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. at South Lakes High School. Learn more about this event and register today! Contact [email protected] for more information.

Thanks as always for your support! 

Warmly,

Holly McGuigan       Tia Hawkins                Sarah Talley

Principal                   Assistant Principal      Assistant Principal

Literacy Night ~ March 12th 5 - 6:30 p.m.

We are looking forward to Literacy Night on March 12th.  We have the Book Fair, karaoke, book estimating, KG Ted Talks and more!  Come enjoy the evening - our teachers will be there as well with fun activities!  Parents must accompany your child(ren)!

March Picture Book Madness

This challenge will last the month of March!  Join us in reading and enjoying the books.  Click on this link to have access to the books and vote! We will vote every week for the month of march!  Get ready to dive into the First Annual Kent Gardens March Madness Reading Challenge Book Tournament Bracket! Each round, books will face off, and your votes will determine which book moves forward until only two finalists remain. 

🔹 Round 1: Vote by Monday, 3/10 - Vote now!  Link here!

🔹 Round 2: Vote by Monday, 3/17

🔹 Round 3:  Vote by Monday, 3/24 

🔹 Round 4 (Finals!): Vote by Monday, 3/31

📢 How to Vote: Links for each new round will be shared via News You Choose and Schoology after votes from the previous round are tallied. 📖🎉 Join us in the reading madness and help crown this year’s champion book! Let the tournament begin! Click here to have access. #kgpride #StrongerTogether #WeAllBelong

Student Intentions - 2025-26 School Year 

Please indicate your child(ren)'s intention for the next school year if you are moving or will attend another school. One form should be completed for each child ONLY if you are moving or will attend another school. This input will support our staffing and planning for the next school year. This information is non binding but will simply be used to plan. If you are returning, you do NOT need to complete this form. The link to the form is here.

Kindergarten Student/Parent Tours - Sixth Grade Students Needed

On April 1st (School Planning Day), we will host our new kindergarten families and students.  We would love to have our sixth grade students support in giving the tours.  Sign up with a friend(s) and we will place you in groups of 2 - 4 for the tours. Sign up here! 

Kindergarten Registration

If you have a child who will be 5 years old by September 30, they are eligible to attend Kindergarten for the upcoming year. Registration paperwork can be downloaded at this link. Once you have completed the paperwork and gathered the required documents, please come into the front office to meet with our registrar, Annie Joseph. 

Alternatively, you can now choose to use online registration tool.  If you choose the online option, you will then have to come into the office with the child’s original birth certificate, your proof of residence (deed/lease) and your ID.  You can contact Annie Joseph to coordinate a convenient time. 

Rising Kindergarten Student Intention 2025-26

Please complete this form if you have a rising kindergartner and plan on attending Kent Gardens. If you are hopeful to attend, you may complete but please note your status in the form below. We are not using this data for evaluative purposes nor for placement purposes but merely to collect information for the beginning of the school year. All students come in at various levels academically and socially. We are excited for our 2025-26 kindergarten students! 

Kindergarten Parent Information Meeting will be through Zoom (link to follow) on March 21st at 8 a.m.  Sign up here to receive the link.

The Parent Tour and Kindergarten Student Orientation is on Tuesday, April  at 1st 2:00 p.m. (Parents and students attend together) Link is here to reserve your tour time.  

Author Visit ~ Candace Fleming - 3/25

We are thrilled to have author, Candace Fleming, come to KG on March 25! She has written over 50 books with flair for creating stories that capture the hearts of readers of all ages! Ms. Fleming will sign copies of her books for KGES students. To order books in time for signing, use THIS order form and return it to Mrs. Hershey in the library by MARCH 11! Forms received AFTER March 11 cannot be ordered. So many wonderful books! 

Dear Families,

This week, we are reflecting and reviewing our past work.  Take the time to review with your family. 

Pre-K–K

Grades 1–2

Grades 3–5

Grades 6–8

Grades 9–12

News from Shelley Lowinger - Parent Liaison

Registration opens soon for Camp Fairfax! Camp Fairfax is a weekly summer camp located in public schools and community centers throughout Fairfax County for rising 1st - 7th grade children. Each weekly session offers the opportunity for children to explore their creativity and develop their talents and skills. Camp Fairfax also provides opportunities for children to develop friendships, enjoy time outdoors, and participate in field trips. Breakfast, lunch and afternoon snack are provided. A sliding fee scale is available. Registration begins the week of March 10, based on the location name. Please visit the Camp Fairfax website for locations and registration information.  

Britepaths/Financial Empowerment Center (FEC) Winter Programs-Free Tax Debt Relief Clinic - Thursday, March 20th, 1 p.m.; Financial Empowerment Center overview; Personal Finance & Career Building (Tuesdays, 7 p.m., series of 6 sessions, March-April)  Financial Budgeting Strategies (English Spanish)  Small Business Workshop Series

Middle School Transition Fair Future Planning for Elementary and Middle School Students in Special Education for families, caregivers and educators of students receiving special education services

2025 FCPS Family Summit - Beyond Labels: Nurturing a Culture of Belonging, Saturday, March 15th - FCPS is pleased to announce the 2025 FCPS Family Summit - Beyond Labels: Nurturing a Culture of Belonging, an event hosted by Fairfax County Public Schools in collaboration with a host of internal and external community partners. This in-person summit will be held on Saturday, March 15th, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at South Lakes High School, 11400 South Lakes Drive, Reston, VA 20191. All families are invited to attend to come together to create a safer, more supportive, and inclusive community for all.  Childcare will be provided during both the morning and afternoon sessions. Special education staff will be available to care for children with high support needs. Language interpretation will be provided.  For more information, please visit the Family Summit website.  Register for the Family Summit

Buy the Yearbook Now! 

The QR code above and the link is here to purchase the yearbook. Use code 21772. We will close the purchase window March 21, 2025.  Buy now to ensure you will have a yearbook for your child(ren)! 

We will be remitting you a confirmation email to families that HAVE purchased.  Our goal is to ensure that we are able to confirm purchases prior to the end of the year. Thanks!

🚀 Prepare for a Summer of Learning and Fun

Registration will be available soon for summer camps offered by Fairfax County Public Schools for all students. Career and Technical Education (CTE) camps and Institute for the Arts (IFTA) camps will be held in July at Lake Braddock Secondary School from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bus transportation will be available from select FCPS middle and high schools. Registration begins for these programs on Monday, March 10, and ends Friday, June 6.

Tech Adventure Camp (TAC) is a week-long exploratory camp designed to allow current K-5 students to explore activities in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math), culinary arts, health, trades, and business and marketing areas. Watch this video about CTE camps.

E-IFTAis a weekly arts camp for students in grades 2-5 who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Students take part in four daily classes related to dance, music, theater, and visual art. They work with FCPS fine arts teachers who create fun and engaging classes. 

For more information, see the Summer Learning page.

Women's History Month

Join us in celebrating Women's History Month! We recognized Women in Sports this past Friday on March 7th.  We have the following dates whereby students can wear Spirit Wear!

March 14 - Women in Music and Art

March 21 - Women in Science

March 28 - Empowered Women

Curiosity, and Joy for Learning

The FCPS Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Advertised Budget invests in academic growth and excellence for each and every student, which is one of the priorities of the FCPS Strategic Plan. A strong start for every student is Goal 1 of the Strategic Plan. Pre-K classrooms are making a difference in our community. In this video, we explore the importance of bringing children under the age of five together, regardless of abilities. Learn more about the FCPS FY 2026 Advertised Budget. View the Budget Development Calendar to stay up to date and learn about opportunities to provide feedback to Fairfax County and FCPS.

💬 Share Your Input on the County Budget

The Fairfax County government presented its Fiscal Year 2026 Advertised Budget Plan to the Board of Supervisors on February 18. The community is invited to share feedback through an online survey, email, phone calls, or by attending Budget Town Hall meetings.

Spring Book Fair

Our Spring Book runs March 7-14, but you can also shop online through March 21st.  Volunteers are KEY to ensuring our Spring Book Fair runs smoothly! Remember the joy of walking into a freshly set up book fair, breathing in the smell of new books, and itching with excitement to pick out a new book to call your very own? You can help create that feeling for our Kent Gardens community by volunteering for the Fair. Sign up here!

Reusable Shopping Bags - Student Book Purchases can be unwieldy for little arms. We encourage families to send students with reusable shopping bags on book buying days at our family shopping events. We are also taking donations of shopping bags (reusable OR plastic bags) which can be dropped off with Mrs. Hershey in the library!

Don't forget to join us on: Tuesday, March 11 for Parents & Pastries 8-845am and Wednesday, March 12  Family Buying Night @ Literacy Night 5-630pm. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult during these events!

An Opportunity to Support!

Some of our past KG students have created this opportunity to 'give back'!  We will have box in the lobby. Some ideas include the following: coloring books, crayons, markers, colored pencils, stickers and any crafts to keep the children occupied with some creativity mind! 

PTA News

PTA membership for the school year costs $20 and is about more than monthly meetings and the odd event here and there. The PTA supports schools and that means staff, teachers, students and their families in ways that go beyond what any one group would be capable of on their own. Make joining the PTA at Kent Gardens a priority. We can't be the PTA we are without parents and other caring adults like YOU!

We are still searching for a President Elect to join our PTA board.  Contact Jenny Gregory, PTA President for more information

Our Next PTA Meeting: March 27 7 p.m.

We are still searching for a President Elect to join our PTA board.  Contact Jenny Gregory, PTA President for more information!

This year, our evening PTA Meeting will be held on Thursday, March 27th at 7pm. We will have a quick meeting, followed by our guest of honor, Mary Willcox Smith. Ms. Smith is a Parent Coach, Speaker, and Author of the book Small Moments, The MicroStep Method® for the Overwhelmed Parent. Join us while she speaks on The Power of Small: How simple shifts can turn overwhelm into connection and resilience.In this engaging presentation, filled with humor, real-life stories, and transformative insights, you’ll discover how to turn daily struggles into small shifts that spark lasting change—helping you parent with confidence and ease. Parents may submit questions prior to the evening here.

Make a Difference This Year! - Volunteer Opportunities

Spring Book Fair  - Here is the link for the schedule and sign up. Please sign up and help support! 

Spring Fun Fair! Interested in helping plan our 2025 5k and fun run? Want to design the t-shirt? Choose the medals? File the permits (you know you want to!)? Coordinate the Volunteers? Maybe you want to find the food trucks? Or DJ the event? Join our planning call via ZOOM on Thursday 2/27 at 7pm. Need the link? Email Event Coordinator Alyssa.

Teacher and Staff Love Wednesdays  The KGES Wellness Committee has shared that teachers and staff LOVE when there is coffee/tea available for them in the lounge...and they REALLY love treats! Help us shower our teachers and staff with love every Wednesday this year by bringing in coffee/tea, snacks, bags of mini candies, or whatever goodies you think might help sweeten their day.  You can also help stack the staff lounge with paper plates/cups/napkins...etc. Please choose a slot to volunteer and drop off in the Staff Lounge by 8am on Wednesdays to show some love and support for our fabulous teachers and staff.

KGES Food Bus Food Rescue Program Volunteers Needed Do you have a half-hour to spare on Friday afternoons to deliver food to SHARE of McLean Food Pantry at McLean Baptist Church? Interested in getting involved in this program? Please sign up HERE and/or email [email protected] or [email protected] with questions. Service hours available for middle/high school students! Thank you for your ongoing support. We could not do this amazing program without you!

Come Watch the Wizards! 

Please join us for Kent Gardens Elementary Night at the Wizards on Friday, March 21st! All purchasers through this special link will receive a discounted ticket price, with a portion of each ticket sold will go back to Kent Gardens Elementary PTA! After the game, join us for a concert by DJ Diesel AKA Shaquille O'Neal! https://fevo-enterprise.com/event/Kent25

Harlem Wizards Take On FCPS Staff! 

Mr. Avery and Mr. Firebaugh joined the McLean Pyramid staff to engage in a fun game of basketball with the Harlem Wizards!  So much fun!

1717 Melbourne Drive, McLean, VA 22101 |  Phone: 703.394.5600  

 Attendance: 703.394.5656 or [email protected]

Web | Twitter

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

Building Community and Keeping Our School Clean!   Plan Forward - Dates to Mark on Your Calendar

March 3 - 28 ~ March Picture Book Madness - Read and vote each week!

March 5 - Spring Picture Day - Student Individual Pictures!  We need two volunteers per slot and it's ideal if the volunteer can stay the entire shift. Sign up here!

March 3 - 7 - Read Across America - Spirit Week! See below ! 

March 7 - McLean schools' FCPS staff take on Harlem Globe Trotters! (Leigh Avery and Stephen Firebaugh) 7 pm start time; doors open 6 pm. Buy your tickets TODAY before they sell out!

March 4 - 16 - McLean Pyramid Youth Art Show  - Reception 4:30 - 6 p.m. on March 6th - See below....

March 10 - 14 - Spring Book Fair 

• Parents and Pastries  March 11 - 8 - 8:45 am
• Family Night March 12 - 5 - 6:30 p.m. (same as Literacy Night)

March 12 - Literacy Night 5 - 6:30 p.m.  Middle or high schooler volunteer? Here is a link - thanks for spreading the word! 

March 17 - Three Hour Early Release

March 21 - Yearbook Order Deadline 3/21  - code 21772 -Have you ordered

March 21 - Kent Gardens' Washington Wizards game -  link here! 

March 21 - Kindergarten Parent Virtual Orientation - 8 am. (Sign Up Here)

March 25 - Author Candace Fleming will join us!  Order here! 

March 27 - PTA Meeting with Guest Speaker - Mary Smith  7 p.m. (See info. below!)

April 1 - Rising Parent and Student Kindergarten Tours - 2 p.m. (Sign up here)

April 9 - Purple Up Day! Order a t shirt here from FCPS. 

May 3 - Spring Spectacular Fun Run and 5K

2024-25 FCPS School Calendar

February ~ Love the Bus Month ♥

We shared our appreciation of our school bus drivers!! 

 Administration Notes

Dear Parents, 

So many activities coming up this month.  Check out the dates above and note the following:

• McLean Youth Art Show Reception - March 6 ~ 4:30 - 6 p.m. 
• Purple Up Day is coming 4/9  - Order t-shirts by March 7
• Read Across America Spirit Week - Dress up this week!
• March Book Madness - Read and vote - each week!  
• Spring Book Fair - March 11 - 15 - Link to sign up and student schedule 
• Literacy Night - March 13 (and Family Night for Book Fair)
• Author Candance Fleming - Pre Order by March 11

Our Spelling Bee was very competitive and we are impressed by our students' abilities. We wish our finalist the best in the state competition. This weekend, our Science Olympiad team made State Finals at the regional meet. Thanks for all the parental support for both of these events.

This month, we have March Book Madness - vote every week!  In addition, it is Spirit Week for Read Across America - dress up and enjoy!  

Our art teachers reached out to some of our students, please do enjoy the McLean Youth Art Show!  The pyramid art work will be highlighted. See the information below for additional information.

In addition, March is Women's History Month. We will wear spirit wear every Friday of this month.  This week, we combined with our Literacy Spirit Week. 

Last but not least, it is Social Worker Appreciation Week - let's show some love to Sophia Moncrieffe! Thanks as always for your support! 

Warmly,

Holly McGuigan       Tia Hawkins                Sarah Talley

Principal                   Assistant Principal      Assistant Principal

Join Us in Read Across America Spirit Week!

March 3 - 7  Dress up each day and read! #kgpride #StrongerTogether #WeAllBelong

March Picture Book Madness

This challenge will last the month of March!  Join us in reading and enjoying the books.  Click on this link to have access to the books and vote! We will vote every week for the month of march!  Get ready to dive into the First Annual Kent Gardens March Madness Reading Challenge Book Tournament Bracket! Each round, books will face off, and your votes will determine which book moves forward until only two finalists remain. 

🔹 Round 1: Vote by Monday, 3/10

🔹 Round 2: Vote by Monday, 3/17

🔹 Round 3:  Vote by Monday, 3/24 

🔹 Round 4 (Finals!): Vote by Monday, 3/31

📢 How to Vote: Links for each new round will be shared via News You Choose and Schoology after votes from the previous round are tallied. 📖🎉 Join us in the reading madness and help crown this year’s champion book! Let the tournament begin! Click here to have access. #kgpride #StrongerTogether #WeAllBelong

Literacy Night! March 12th  5 - 6:30 p.m.

We are looking forward to Literacy Night on March 12th.  We have the Book Fair, karaoke, book estimating, KG Ted Talks and more!  Come enjoy the evening - our teachers will be there as well with fun activities! 

Do you know a middle or high schooler that would like to volunteer? Here is a link - thanks for spreading the word! 

McLean Pyramid Youth Art Show

March is Youth Art Month - Join our fabulous art teachers at the reception March 6 from 4:30 - 6 pm. The reception is open March 4 - 16 4:30 - 6 pm. and also on March 9 1 - 4 pm. Enjoy viewing KG students art work at McLean Community Center 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean VA. Check out link here.

Student Intentions - 2025-26 School Year 

Please indicate your child(ren)'s intention for the next school year if you are moving or will attend another school. One form should be completed for each child ONLY if you are moving or will attend another school. This input will support our staffing and planning for the next school year. This information is non binding but will simply be used to plan. If you are returning, you do NOT need to complete this form. The link to the form is here.

Kindergarten Registration

If you have a child who will be 5 years old by September 30, they are eligible to attend Kindergarten for the upcoming year. Registration paperwork can be downloaded at this link. Once you have completed the paperwork and gathered the required documents, please come into the front office to meet with our registrar, Annie Joseph. 

Alternatively, you can now choose to use online registration tool.  If you choose the online option, you will then have to come into the office with the child’s original birth certificate, your proof of residence (deed/lease) and your ID.  You can contact Annie Joseph to coordinate a convenient time. 

Rising Kindergarten Student Intention 2025-26

Please complete this form if you have a rising kindergartner and plan on attending Kent Gardens. If you are hopeful to attend, you may complete but please note your status in the form below. We are not using this data for evaluative purposes nor for placement purposes but merely to collect information for the beginning of the school year. All students come in at various levels academically and socially. We are excited for our 2025-26 kindergarten students! 

Kindergarten Parent Information Meeting will be through Zoom (link to follow) on March 21st at 8 a.m.  Sign up here to receive the link.

The Parent Tour and Kindergarten Student Orientation is on Tuesday, April  at 1st 2:00 p.m. (Parents and students attend together) Link is here to reserve your tour time.  

Author Visit ~ Candace Fleming - 3/25

We are thrilled to have author, Candace Fleming, come to KG on March 25! She has written over 50 books with flair for creating stories that capture the hearts of readers of all ages! Ms. Fleming will sign copies of her books for KGES students. To order books in time for signing, use THIS order form and return it to Mrs. Hershey in the library by MARCH 11! Forms received AFTER March 11 cannot be ordered. So many wonderful books! 

Dear Families,

This week, our school community will focus on the character strength of Love of Learning. Love of learning means enjoying the process of learning new things, whether in school or on your own. People with a love of learning are motivated because they find joy in learning itself, not just for rewards like grades or prizes. They are driven by the excitement of discovering and mastering new skills.

Developing a love of learning is important for students because it helps them stay motivated and engaged. It can also improve their mental and physical well-being as they take pride in overcoming challenges and growing.

To practice and encourage the character strength of Love of Learning at home, please visit The Positivity Project’s mobile-friendly P2 for Families (available in English and Spanish), where you will watch a video together and discuss a quote and three questions. Below are links to this week’s P2 for Families lessons. Click on the grade level that best meets your child’s needs.

Pre-K–K

Grades 1–2

Grades 3–5

Grades 6–8

Grades 9–12

News from Shelley Lowinger - Parent Liaison

Anxiety in the Context of Autism: What Parents Need to Know - Join Dr. Jonathan Dalton, PhD, founder and director of the Center for Anxiety and Behavioral Change as he presents on the critical differences in the treatment of anxiety in Neurotypical (allistic) and Autistic children.  The workshop will focus on the differences between fear and dread and why traditional anxiety treatment approaches are often insufficient when treating Autistic youth.  Parents will build skills that families can use to help relieve the anxious suffering of their children.  Presentation will be held on March 7, 2025 from 10 - 11:30 a.m.Register here

Hypothermia Prevention Program  The Hypothermia Prevention Program will run through March 31, 2025. The program ensures no one sleeps outside during winter. Available support includes warm shelter, meals, vital services, and connecting guests to clothing, employment, and housing. Hypothermia Prevention Program Flyer ; Hypothermia Prevention Program Flyer (Spanish)

Purchase Your Purple Up T-Shirt - April is the Month of the Military Child and a time to honor and celebrate the courage and contributions of FCPS military-connect children.   Purchase the FCPS Purple UP! T-shirt and / or hoodie between now and March 7th to wear on Purple UP! Day!   More info about our Month of the Military Child celebration will be shared soon.

The Safe Community Coalition’s Presentation on Better Sleep, Better Health - The Safe Community Coalition would like to invite you to their free monthly parent discussion group on March 13th at the McLean Community Center at 7:00 p.m. , facilitated by licensed mental health professionals.   This month’s topic, Better Sleep, Better Health, delves into the causes and consequences of sleep issues across all ages and their impact on mental health.  Strategies will be shared for managing insomnia, reducing stress before bed and creating healthier sleep habits.   Contact the Safe Community Coalition directly at [email protected] or Michael Fisher at  [email protected] for more information and registration information.

Buy the Yearbook Now! 

The QR code above and the link is here to purchase the yearbook. Use code 21772. We will close the purchase window March 21, 2025.  Buy now to ensure you will have a yearbook for your child(ren)! 

Spelling Bee!

We had so many rounds!  Thanks to spelling champions - so much talent!  #kgpride #StrongerTogether #WeAllBelong

Black History Month

Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing their central role in U.S. history.Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. Our Equity Team presented on the News Show! 

🥗Student Fasting Meal Kits for Feb 28 - Mar 28

Thanks to a new program from the Virginia Department of Education, students who are fasting during the school day between February 28 and March 28 can now take school meal kits home at the end of the day. Families will need to fill out a weekly Fasting Meals Request Form for their child or children to receive school meal kits. A separate form must be filled out for each week and each student. To receive meal kits for Friday, February 28, and the week of March 3, please submit the first request form by Monday, February 24. Visit the FNS webpage for more information, including weekly request forms and deadlines.

Science Olympiad Regional Meet

KG students performed well at the Science Olympiad meet in Fredericksburg, VA.  They are going to the State Finals (5th year in a row) ~ a shout out to our parent partners and Mr. Shivnen!! 

Immunization Packets for Rising 7th Graders 

As required by the Code of Virginia, parents or legal guardians need to provide proof of immunizations for their child to attend public school. All students entering seventh grade are required to receive one dose of each of the following immunizations: 

• Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis booster (Tdap) given at age 7 or older.
• Meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY) given at age 10 or older.
• A complete series of 2 doses of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. 

• After reviewing educational materials approved by the Board of Health, the parent or guardian, at the parents/guardians sole discretion, may elect for the child not to receive the HPV vaccine.

Parents/guardians are encouraged to plan ahead by scheduling an appointment with their child’s health care provider now to avoid the rush this summer. If your child does not have a health care provider, please visit the FCPS Immunizations Resource page to find out where to get an immunization. Please review the Virginia Department of Health Information Packet for more information on rising 7th grade immunization requirements.

An Opportunity to Support!

Some of our past KG students have created this opportunity to 'give back'!  We will have box in the lobby. Some ideas include the following: coloring books, crayons, markers, colored pencils, stickers and any crafts to keep the children occupied with some creativity mind! 

PTA News

PTA membership for the school year costs $20 and is about more than monthly meetings and the odd event here and there. The PTA supports schools and that means staff, teachers, students and their families in ways that go beyond what any one group would be capable of on their own. Make joining the PTA at Kent Gardens a priority. We can't be the PTA we are without parents and other caring adults like YOU!

We are still searching for a President Elect to join our PTA board.  Contact Jenny Gregory, PTA President for more information

Our Next PTA Meeting: March 27 7 p.m.

We are still searching for a President Elect to join our PTA board.  Contact Jenny Gregory, PTA President for more information!

This year, our evening PTA Meeting will be held on Thursday, March 27th at 7pm. We will have a quick meeting, followed by our guest of honor, Mary Willcox Smith. Ms. Smith is a Parent Coach, Speaker, and Author of the book Small Moments, The MicroStep Method® for the Overwhelmed Parent. Join us while she speaks on The Power of Small: How simple shifts can turn overwhelm into connection and resilience.In this engaging presentation, filled with humor, real-life stories, and transformative insights, you’ll discover how to turn daily struggles into small shifts that spark lasting change—helping you parent with confidence and ease. Parents may submit questions prior to the evening here.

Make a Difference This Year! - Volunteer Opportunities

Spring Book Fair  - Here is the link for the schedule and sign up. Please sign up and help support! 

Spring Picture Day is Wednesday, March 5. Help us keep this day moving by volunteering for a shift. It's a lot of fun AND volunteers receive a discount voucher in appreciation of their time! Shifts run 850am-1215pm and 1215pm-325pm. We need two volunteers per slot and it's ideal if the volunteer can stay the entire shift. Sign up here!

Interested in helping plan our 2025 5k and fun run? Want to design the t-shirt? Choose the medals? File the permits (you know you want to!)? Coordinate the Volunteers? Maybe you want to find the food trucks? Or DJ the event? Join our planning call via ZOOM on Thursday 2/27 at 7pm. Need the link? Email Event Coordinator Alyssa.

Teacher and Staff Love Wednesdays  The KGES Wellness Committee has shared that teachers and staff LOVE when there is coffee/tea available for them in the lounge...and they REALLY love treats! Help us shower our teachers and staff with love every Wednesday this year by bringing in coffee/tea, snacks, bags of mini candies, or whatever goodies you think might help sweeten their day.  You can also help stack the staff lounge with paper plates/cups/napkins...etc. Please choose a slot to volunteer and drop off in the Staff Lounge by 8am on Wednesdays to show some love and support for our fabulous teachers and staff.

KGES Food Bus Food Rescue Program Volunteers Needed Do you have a half-hour to spare on Friday afternoons to deliver food to SHARE of McLean Food Pantry at McLean Baptist Church? Interested in getting involved in this program? Please sign up HERE and/or email [email protected] or [email protected] with questions. Service hours available for middle/high school students! Thank you for your ongoing support. We could not do this amazing program without you!

Come Watch the Wizards! 

Please join us for Kent Gardens Elementary Night at the Wizards on Friday, March 21st! All purchasers through this special link will receive a discounted ticket price, with a portion of each ticket sold will go back to Kent Gardens Elementary PTA! After the game, join us for a concert by DJ Diesel AKA Shaquille O'Neal! https://fevo-enterprise.com/event/Kent25

Girls on the Run Starts March 3

Registration for Girls on the Run is now open through Feb. 23 at gotrnova.org. Practices begin March 3 and will take place either M/W or Tu/Th between 3:45-5 p.m. We are still looking for one adult coach or practice partner for the Tu/Th team. The kids of parent volunteers are guaranteed a spot in the program and coaches' kids get a registration discount. Please contact Danielle Newman at [email protected] if you're interested in volunteering.

1717 Melbourne Drive, McLean, VA 22101 |  Phone: 703.394.5600  

 Attendance: 703.394.5656 or [email protected]

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Chilly Week - Lots of Learning and Fun!

 #kgpride #StrongerTogether #WeAllBelong

Plan Forward - Dates to Mark on Your Calendar

February 24 - 28 - 'Love the Bus'  ~ Appreciate our bus drivers!! 

February 24 - Three Hour Early Release Monday

February 25 - Spelling Bee KG Library 2 p.m.

February 28 - PTA Meeting 9 a.m.

March 5 - Spring Picture Day - Student Individual Pictures!

March 10 - 14 - Spring Book Fair

March 12 - Literacy Night 5 - 6:30 p.m.  Middle or high schooler volunteer? Here is a link - thanks for spreading the word! 

March 21 - Yearbook Order Deadline - Have you ordered??

March 21 - Kent Gardens' Washington Wizards game - come watch with your friends  - link below! 

March 21 - Kindergarten Parent Virtual Orientation - 8 am. (Sign Up Here)

March 25 - Author Candace Fleming will join us!  Order here! 

March 27 - PTA Meeting with Guest Speaker - Mary Smith  7 p.m. (See info. below!)

April 1 - Rising Parent and Student Kindergarten Tours - 2 p.m. (Sign up here)

May 3 - Spring Spectacular Fun Run and 5K

2024-25 FCPS School Calendar

February ~Love the Bus Month ♥

Join us in celebrating our wonderful bus drivers next week!  Their work is instrumental to our school!  Let's thank them in a special way this week! 

 Administration Notes

Dear Parents, 

We had a chilly week without any snow!  Students and teachers are working hard together!

Please note the upcoming 3 hour early release for February 24th.  Note that we have contacted some families personally to request attendance to regain days of absences and avoid 'Chronic Absenteeism'.  As a reminder, Chronic Absenteeism is defined as being absent 10% or more of the school year.  We will remit to every parent, your child's attendance report card in the coming week. 

February is 'Love the Bus Month'!  Let's celebrate our bus drivers who work so hard - every morning and afternoon!  

Have you ordered your yearbook - our cutoff date is March 21st this year! 

Thanks as always for your support! 

Warmly,

Holly McGuigan       Tia Hawkins                Sarah Talley

Principal                   Assistant Principal      Assistant Principal

Literacy Night! March 12th  5 - 6:30 p.m.

We are looking forward to Literacy Night on March 12th.  We have the Book Fair, karaoke, book estimating, KG Ted Talks and more!  Come enjoy the evening - our teachers will be there as well with fun activities! 

Do you know a middle or high schooler that would like to volunteer? Here is a link - thanks for spreading the word!  

Student Intentions - 2025-26 School Year 

Please indicate your child(ren)'s intention for the next school year if you are moving or will attend another school. One form should be completed for each child ONLY if you are moving or will attend another school. This input will support our staffing and planning for the next school year. This information is non binding but will simply be used to plan. If you are returning, you do NOT need to complete this form. The link to the form is here.

Rising Kindergarten Student Intention 2025-26

Please complete this form if you have a rising kindergartner and plan on attending Kent Gardens. If you are hopeful to attend, you may complete but please note your status in the form below. We are not using this data for evaluative purposes nor for placement purposes but merely to collect information for the beginning of the school year. All students come in at various levels academically and socially. We are excited for our 2025-26 kindergarten students! 

Kindergarten Parent Information Meeting will be through Zoom (link to follow) on March 21st at 8 a.m.  Sign up here to receive the link.

The Parent Tour and Kindergarten Student Orientation is on Tuesday, April  at 1st 2:00 p.m. (Parents and students attend together) Link is here to reserve your tour time.  

Kindergarten Registration

If you have a child who will be 5 years old by September 30, they are eligible to attend Kindergarten for the upcoming year. Registration paperwork can be downloaded at this link. Once you have completed the paperwork and gathered the required documents, please come into the front office to meet with our registrar, Annie Joseph. 

Alternatively, you can now choose to use online registration tool.  If you choose the online option, you will then have to come into the office with the child’s original birth certificate, your proof of residence (deed/lease) and your ID.  You can contact Annie Joseph to coordinate a convenient time. 

Author Visit ~ Candace Fleming - 3/25

We are thrilled to have author, Candace Fleming, come to KG on March 25! She has written over 50 books with flair for creating stories that capture the hearts of readers of all ages! Ms. Fleming will sign copies of her books for KGES students. To order books in time for signing, use THIS order form and return it to Mrs. Hershey in the library by MARCH 11! Forms received AFTER March 11 cannot be ordered. So many wonderful books! 

Dear Families,

This week, our school community will focus on the character strength of Humility. Humility means not seeking attention and letting your actions speak for themselves. Humble people understand their abilities and achievements without underestimating them. They can admit mistakes, accept advice, and are open to new ideas. They don't show off their successes or possessions. Developing humility helps people reflect on how they can improve and work well with others. It allows them to grow and become valuable team members.

To practice and encourage the character strength of humility at home, please visit The Positivity Project’s mobile-friendly P2 for Families (available in English and Spanish), where you will watch a video together and discuss a quote and three questions. Below are links to this week’s P2 for Families lessons. Click on the grade level that best meets your child’s needs.

Pre-K–K

Grades 1–2

Grades 3–5

Grades 6–8

Grades 9–12

News from Shelley Lowinger - Parent Liaison

Office of the Ombuds:  At Your Service! - Ombuds staff engage with FCPS employees, families and students to offer resources and improve the experience of each and every member of the FCPS community.  They work as an independent confidential resource to help get answers to questions, resolve concerns, and hear complaints regarding FCPS matters.   Ombuds office staff members are available to help resolve disagreements between parents / caregivers and schools.   Anyone with concerns, questions, or complaints to share with the Office of the Ombuds may call 571-423-4014, email [email protected], or visit their webpage, where you may Submit a Question.

Legal Services of Northern Virginia Low-Income Tax Clinic - List of Free Tax Preparation Providers ; Northern Virginia Tax Aide providers

Summer Camp Options - FCPS’s Institute for the Arts, Tech Adventure Camp, and the Career and Technical Education Summer Academy will all begin registering students soon. Students who qualify for Free and Reduced Meals can attend tuition-free!  Visit the included links for more information and registration details.

Fairfax County Park Authority Spring Classes & Spring Break Camps - Various spring classes and camps offered through the Fairfax County Park Authority can be found here

📐 Breaking Down the Budget: Supporting Academic Growth and Algebra by Eighth Grade

The FCPS Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Proposed Budget invests in academic growth and excellence for each and every student, which is one of the priorities of the FCPS Strategic Plan. Since the 2023-24 school year, FCPS has seen a 9.5% increase in eighth graders taking Algebra I or more advanced math and a 6.8% increase in fifth graders in advanced math.

Studies show that students who complete algebra in middle school have more opportunities to take advanced math and science courses in high school. This can open up new academic paths for students! Watch a video that shows why eighth grade algebra matters. 

The QR code above and the link is here to purchase the yearbook. Use code 21772. We will close the purchase window March 21, 2025.  Buy now to ensure you will have a yearbook for your child(ren)! 

More KG Fun!  Black History Month

Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing their central role in U.S. history.Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. Learn more about Black History month.

🥗Student Fasting Meal Kits for Feb 28 - Mar 28

Thanks to a new program from the Virginia Department of Education, students who are fasting during the school day between February 28 and March 28 can now take school meal kits home at the end of the day. Families will need to fill out a weekly Fasting Meals Request Form for their child or children to receive school meal kits. A separate form must be filled out for each week and each student. To receive meal kits for Friday, February 28, and the week of March 3, please submit the first request form by Monday, February 24. Visit the FNS webpage for more information, including weekly request forms and deadlines.

Immunization Packets for Rising 7th Graders 

As required by the Code of Virginia, parents or legal guardians need to provide proof of immunizations for their child to attend public school. All students entering seventh grade are required to receive one dose of each of the following immunizations: 

• Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis booster (Tdap) given at age 7 or older.
• Meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY) given at age 10 or older.
• A complete series of 2 doses of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. 

• After reviewing educational materials approved by the Board of Health, the parent or guardian, at the parents/guardians sole discretion, may elect for the child not to receive the HPV vaccine.

Parents/guardians are encouraged to plan ahead by scheduling an appointment with their child’s health care provider now to avoid the rush this summer. If your child does not have a health care provider, please visit the FCPS Immunizations Resource page to find out where to get an immunization. Please review the Virginia Department of Health Information Packet for more information on rising 7th grade immunization requirements.

An Opportunity to Support!

Some of our past KG students have created this opportunity to 'give back'!  We will have box in the lobby. Some ideas include the following: coloring books, crayons, markers, colored pencils, stickers and any crafts to keep the children occupied with some creativity mind! 

PTA News

PTA membership for the school year costs $20 and is about more than monthly meetings and the odd event here and there. The PTA supports schools and that means staff, teachers, students and their families in ways that go beyond what any one group would be capable of on their own. Make joining the PTA at Kent Gardens a priority. We can't be the PTA we are without parents and other caring adults like YOU!

We are still searching for a President Elect to join our PTA board.  Contact Jenny Gregory, PTA President for more information

Our Next PTA Meeting: February 28 at 9am

We are still searching for a President Elect to join our PTA board.  Contact Jenny Gregory, PTA President for more information!

Our next General Meeting will be February 28 at 9am in the cafeteria!

This year, our evening PTA Meeting will be held on Thursday, March 27th at 7pm. We will have a quick meeting, followed by our guest of honor, Mary Willcox Smith. Ms. Smith is a Parent Coach, Speaker, and Author of the book Small Moments, The MicroStep Method® for the Overwhelmed Parent. Join us while she speaks on The Power of Small: How simple shifts can turn overwhelm into connection and resilience.In this engaging presentation, filled with humor, real-life stories, and transformative insights, you’ll discover how to turn daily struggles into small shifts that spark lasting change—helping you parent with confidence and ease. Parents may submit questions prior to the evening here.

Make a Difference This Year! - Volunteer Opportunities

Book Fair Co-Chair If you love the book fair as much as we do, consider becoming a co-chair this year with Andrea Hagar. The Spring Book Fair is run by the PTA with support from our library staff. You'll learn alongside our seasoned book fair volunteers this spring! Contact Andrea at [email protected] to learn more!

Teacher and Staff Love Wednesdays  The KGES Wellness Committee has shared that teachers and staff LOVE when there is coffee/tea available for them in the lounge...and they REALLY love treats! Help us shower our teachers and staff with love every Wednesday this year by bringing in coffee/tea, snacks, bags of mini candies, or whatever goodies you think might help sweeten their day.  You can also help stack the staff lounge with paper plates/cups/napkins...etc. Please choose a slot to volunteer and drop off in the Staff Lounge by 8am on Wednesdays to show some love and support for our fabulous teachers and staff.

KGES Food Bus Food Rescue Program Volunteers Needed Do you have a half-hour to spare on Friday afternoons to deliver food to SHARE of McLean Food Pantry at McLean Baptist Church? Interested in getting involved in this program? Please sign up HERE and/or email [email protected] or [email protected] with questions. Service hours available for middle/high school students! Thank you for your ongoing support. We could not do this amazing program without you!

Come Watch the Wizards! 

Please join us for Kent Gardens Elementary Night at the Wizards on Friday, March 21st! All purchasers through this special link will receive a discounted ticket price, with a portion of each ticket sold will go back to Kent Gardens Elementary PTA! After the game, join us for a concert by DJ Diesel AKA Shaquille O'Neal! https://fevo-enterprise.com/event/Kent25

Girls on the Run Starts March 3

Registration for Girls on the Run is now open through Feb. 23 at gotrnova.org. Practices begin March 3 and will take place either M/W or Tu/Th between 3:45-5 p.m. We are still looking for one adult coach or practice partner for the Tu/Th team. The kids of parent volunteers are guaranteed a spot in the program and coaches' kids get a registration discount. Please contact Danielle Newman at [email protected] if you're interested in volunteering.

1717 Melbourne Drive, McLean, VA 22101 |  Phone: 703.394.5600  

 Attendance: 703.394.5656 or [email protected]

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Math/STEAM Night - So Much Fun!

We had a great time at STEAM night!  The keva block building, estimation, KG Talks, coding, math challenges, TJHSST Neurodiversity Club, McLean Robotics, airplane contests and more!  A shout out to our teachers for supporting and the PTA for bringing Mad Science!   #kgpride #StrongerTogether #WeAllBelong

Plan Forward - Dates to Mark on Your Calendar

February 17 - President's Day Holiday

February 19 - Book Fair Planning Meeting  - Cafeteria (PTA info below)

February 20 - Sixth Grade Promotion Planning (rescheduled) 8:45 Cafeteria

February 20 - School Club Pictures

February 24 - Three Hour Early Release Monday

February 25 - Spelling Bee KG Library 2 p.m.

February 28 - PTA Meeting 9 a.m.

March 10 - 14 - Spring Book Fair

March 12 - Literacy Night 5 - 6:30 p.m.  Middle or high schooler volunteer? Here is a link - thanks for spreading the word! 

March 21 - Yearbook Order Deadline

March 21 - Kent Gardens' Washington Wizards game - come watch with your friends  - link below! 

March 27 - PTA Meeting with Guest Speaker - Mary Smith  7 p.m. (See info. below!)

May 3 - Spring Spectacular Fun Run and 5K

2024-25 FCPS School Calendar

 Administration Notes

Dear Parents, 

Thanks for attending the Math/STEAM Night - it was a wonderful time! We thank the teachers for supporting and to our PTA for connecting with Mad Scientist. 

We remitted the reminder regarding the upcoming 3 hour early release for February 24th.  Note that we will be contacting some families personally to request attendance to regain days of absences and avoid 'Chronic Absenteeism'.  As a reminder, Chronic Absenteeism is defined as being absent 10% or more of the school year.  We will remit to every parent, your child's attendance report card in the coming week. 

Thanks as always for your support! 

Warmly,

Holly McGuigan       Tia Hawkins                Sarah Talley

Principal                   Assistant Principal      Assistant Principal

FCPS Student Experience Survey

Our school will participate in the FCPS Student Experience Survey. This survey will gather important feedback from students about their school experiences to help FCPS make meaningful improvements.

All students in grades 3-6, except those who have opted out, will receive a link to the survey in their FCPS email on February 24. Your child's homeroom teacher will inform you of the date your child will take the survey.  We remitted an additional email on Friday with the Opt Out information. 

We believe it's important to hear from our students about what we're doing well and where we can improve. This work also aligns with the five equity commitments in FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan, which focus on amplifying student voice and experiences as we work toward meeting plan goals.

Literacy Night! March 12th  5 - 6:30 p.m.

We are looking forward to Literacy Night on March 12th.  We have the Book Fair, karaoke, book estimating, KG Ted Talks and more!  Come enjoy the evening - our teachers will be there as well with fun activities! 

Do you know a middle o high schooler that would like to volunteer? Here is a link - thanks for spreading the word!  

Student Intentions - 2025-26 School Year 

Please indicate your child(ren)'s intention for the next school year if you are moving or will attend another school. One form should be completed for each child ONLY if you are moving or will attend another school. This input will support our staffing and planning for the next school year. This information is non binding but will simply be used to plan. If you are returning, you do NOT need to complete this form. The link to the form is here.

Rising Kindergarten Student Intention 2025-26

Please complete this form if you have a rising kindergartner and plan on attending Kent Gardens. If you are hopeful to attend, you may complete but please note your status in the form below. We are not using this data for evaluative purposes nor for placement purposes but merely to collect information for the beginning of the school year. All students come in at various levels academically and socially. We are excited for our 2025-26 kindergarten students! 

Kindergarten Parent Information Meeting will be through Zoom (link to follow) on March 21st at 8 a.m.  Sign up here to receive the link.

The Parent Tour and Kindergarten Student Orientation is on Tuesday, April  at 1st 2:00 p.m. (Parents and students attend together) Link is here to reserve your tour time.  

Kindergarten Registration

If you have a child who will be 5 years old by September 30, they are eligible to attend Kindergarten for the upcoming year. Registration paperwork can be downloaded at this link. Once you have completed the paperwork and gathered the required documents, please come into the front office to meet with our registrar, Annie Joseph. 

Alternatively, you can now choose to use online registration tool.  If you choose the online option, you will then have to come into the office with the child’s original birth certificate, your proof of residence (deed/lease) and your ID.  You can contact Annie Joseph to coordinate a convenient time. 

More STEAM Fun! 

Dear Families,

This week, our school community will focus on the Other People Mindset of Cheering Others’ Successes. This means when someone else does well, we are happy for them and show our support.It's normal to sometimes feel jealous or envious when others succeed, but learning to genuinely celebrate their accomplishments can improve our own happiness and relationships. Supporting others not only helps them feel good but also strengthens our community and creates a positive environment.

Encouraging your child to be happy for others can start with simple actions, such as congratulating a friend, noticing feelings of envy and asking why, or learning from others’ successes. These steps build a supportive culture in families, teams, schools, and communities.

To practice and encourage this Other People Mindset at home, please visit The Positivity Project’s mobile-friendly P2 for Families (available in English and Spanish), where you will watch a video together and discuss a quote and three questions. Below are links to this week’s P2 for Families lessons. Click on the grade level that best meets your child’s needs. 

Pre-K–K

Grades 1–2

Grades 3–5

Grades 6–8

Grades 9–12

News from Shelley Lowinger - Parent Liaison

Fairfax County Health Department Speech and Hearing Clinic - Services are available for adults and children living in Fairfax County, City of Fairfax and City of Falls Church.  Call to make an appointment (703) 246-7120.  Visit fairfaxcounty.gov/health/speech-hearing for more information.

February Workshops from the Family Resource Center - FCPS Risk Prevention Series: Part 1 Risk Prevention ~February 18th 10 - 11:30  a.m.    Review how FCPS Risk Prevention processes and procedures support a safe and healthy school community. Learn about risks assessments when a child expresses threats of harm to self and threats of harm to others and/or demonstrates concerning behaviors. Families and caretakers will be provided practical information and strategies to support building factors for those in their care. Register Here

Nurturing Adolescent Growth: Part 4 - Supporting Mental Health: Recognizing and Addressing Anxiety and Depression in Teens

February 21, 2025, 10 - 11:30 a.m. Join us for Part 4 of our Teen Series with Dr. Unnatti Jain, a Certified Behavior Change Expert / TEDx speaker / Author / Keynote speaker who studies behavioral patterns.  Dr. Jain will help caretakers and families be able to identify mental health symptoms, enhance communication skills, and explore professional and self-care strategies. Register Here

SibShops - February 22, 2025, 10 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. For children grades 2-6 enrolled in Fairfax County Public Schools.  An opportunity to meet other siblings in a relaxed setting.  Celebrate the many contributions made by brothers and sisters of children with special needs.  Share sibling experiences, while receiving peer support.  Enjoy games and have fun! Register Here

FCPS Risk Prevention Series: Suicide Prevention – Supporting Your Child - February 25, 2025, 10 - 11:30 a.m.  This session will equip caregivers with the knowledge and skills to identify signs of suicidal ideation in their children and respond effectively to these crises. Caregivers will learn how to respond if they learn or observe that their child may be experiencing thoughts of suicide. This session will provide practical tools and strategies to help caregivers navigate these challenging situations with compassion and confidence. - Register Here

Proposed Budget

Breaking Down the Budget: Investing in Our ClassroomsDid you know that more than 85% of FCPS’ budget stays in our classrooms? Currently, 92.5% of FCPS staff are school-based, more than neighboring school districts. We are in the middle of FCPS’ annual budget process, which includes opportunities for you to give feedback. Learn more about the proposed FCPS FY 2026 Proposed Budget and see the budget timeline.

The QR code above and the link is here to purchase the yearbook. Use code 21772. We will close the purchase window March 21, 2025.  Buy now to ensure you will have a yearbook for your child(ren)! 

Spreading Kindness and Love!  Protect Yourself/Community from the Flu

Fairfax County is experiencing very high levels of influenza (flu) illness. The Fairfax County Health Department reports that visits to emergency departments and urgent care centers for flu-like illness have increased, especially among children, and multiple flu outbreaks have occurred in our community and school settings. Read a letter from the health department.  The health department suggests taking the following steps to reduce the spread of flu and other germs:    

• Cover coughs and sneezes. If you must be around others while ill, wearing a mask can help reduce spread.
• Wash hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available (with supervision for younger children).
• Clean frequently touched surfaces.

According to the health department, to help prevent or reduce the spread of illness it is important for individuals who are sick to stay home and away from others until symptoms improve and until they have been free of fever for at least 24 hours. Visit this Attendance webpage for guidance on when your child should go to school.

Students Invitation ~ Share Your Voice at the 2025 Family Summit

The 2025 FCPS Family Summit will take place on Saturday, March 15, at South Lakes High School. Visit the Family Summit webpage for more information. At the event, FCPS students will be invited to showcase projects and advocacy efforts around inclusivity in schools. This is a great resume-building opportunity, and students can earn service hours as well. Students may share their work in a share-fair environment using posters, essays, videos, songs, or art. They will interact with attendees through conversations about their work, ideas, and efforts to foster inclusivity in school communities. 

Students must use this Google Form to participate by Monday, February 17. A list of possible projects is also on the form. More information will be provided after the student’s submission is received. Please contact Manuel Gomez Portillo with any questions. ✨ Centering student voice is part of FCPS’ Strategic Plan Goal 2: Safe, Supported, Included, and Empowered. 

PTA News

PTA membership for the school year costs $20 and is about more than monthly meetings and the odd event here and there. The PTA supports schools and that means staff, teachers, students and their families in ways that go beyond what any one group would be capable of on their own. Make joining the PTA at Kent Gardens a priority. We can't be the PTA we are without parents and other caring adults like YOU!

We are still searching for a President Elect to join our PTA board.  Contact Jenny Gregory, PTA President for more information

Our Next PTA Meeting: February 28 at 9am

We are still searching for a President Elect to join our PTA board.  Contact Jenny Gregory, PTA President for more information!

Our next General Meeting will be February 28 at 9am in the cafeteria!

This year, our evening PTA Meeting will be held on Thursday, March 27th at 7pm. We will have a quick meeting, followed by our guest of honor, Mary Willcox Smith. Ms. Smith is a Parent Coach, Speaker, and Author of the book Small Moments, The MicroStep Method® for the Overwhelmed Parent. Join us while she speaks on The Power of Small: How simple shifts can turn overwhelm into connection and resilience.In this engaging presentation, filled with humor, real-life stories, and transformative insights, you’ll discover how to turn daily struggles into small shifts that spark lasting change—helping you parent with confidence and ease. Parents may submit questions prior to the evening here.

Make a Difference This Year! - Volunteer Opportunities

Sixth Grade Promotion Party Planning Meeting! Join us on February 12 at 845am in the cafeteria for the 6th grade Promotion Party Planning Meeting. Volunteers will plan activities, fundraising, decorations, and food for this epic party in June to send off this year's 6th graders in true KG style (over the top awesome goodness, of course)! If you’re interested in helping and missed the very first email, email [email protected] to be included.

Book Fair Planning - The Spring Book Fair is run by the PTA (with a massive assist from Mrs. Hershey and Ms. Nabaki) and helps us raise money to support Kent Gardens. For a successful book fair, we need YOUR help! Join us for our book fair planning meeting on Wednesday, February 19 at 9am in the Cafeteria.

Book Fair Co-Chair If you love the book fair as much as we do, consider becoming a co-chair this year with Andrea Hagar. The Spring Book Fair is run by the PTA with support from our library staff. You'll learn alongside our seasoned book fair volunteers this spring! Contact Andrea at [email protected] to learn more!

Teacher and Staff Love Wednesdays  The KGES Wellness Committee has shared that teachers and staff LOVE when there is coffee/tea available for them in the lounge...and they REALLY love treats! Help us shower our teachers and staff with love every Wednesday this year by bringing in coffee/tea, snacks, bags of mini candies, or whatever goodies you think might help sweeten their day.  You can also help stack the staff lounge with paper plates/cups/napkins...etc. Please choose a slot to volunteer and drop off in the Staff Lounge by 8am on Wednesdays to show some love and support for our fabulous teachers and staff.

KGES Food Bus Food Rescue Program Volunteers Needed Do you have a half-hour to spare on Friday afternoons to deliver food to SHARE of McLean Food Pantry at McLean Baptist Church? Interested in getting involved in this program? Please sign up HERE and/or email [email protected] or [email protected] with questions. Service hours available for middle/high school students! Thank you for your ongoing support. We could not do this amazing program without you!

Come Watch the Wizards! 

Please join us for Kent Gardens Elementary Night at the Wizards on Friday, March 21st! All purchasers through this special link will receive a discounted ticket price, with a portion of each ticket sold will go back to Kent Gardens Elementary PTA! After the game, join us for a concert by DJ Diesel AKA Shaquille O'Neal! https://fevo-enterprise.com/event/Kent25

Girls on the Run Starts March 3

Registration for Girls on the Run is now open through Feb. 23 at gotrnova.org. Practices begin March 3 and will take place either M/W or Tu/Th between 3:45-5 p.m. We are still looking for one adult coach or practice partner for the Tu/Th team. The kids of parent volunteers are guaranteed a spot in the program and coaches' kids get a registration discount. Please contact Danielle Newman at [email protected] if you're interested in volunteering.

1717 Melbourne Drive, McLean, VA 22101 |  Phone: 703.394.5600  

 Attendance: 703.394.5656 or [email protected]

Web | Twitter

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

Snow in our Forecast? 

Students start the predictions!  We will see what the weather brings! Thumbs Up or Thumbs Down :)  #kgpride #StrongerTogether #WeAllBelong

Plan Forward - Dates to Mark on Your Calendar

February 11 - Spelling Bee  KG Library 2 p.m.

February 12 - 6th Grade Promotion Party Planning Meeting 9 a.m

February 13 - Math/STEAM Night! 5 - 6:30 p.m.  Middle or high schooler volunteer? Here is a link - thanks for spreading the word! 

February 13 - Immersion Registration Link Closed

February 17 - President's Day Holiday

February 19 - Book Fair Planning Meeting  - Cafeteria (PTA info below)

February 20 - School Club Pictures

February 24 - Three Hour Early Release Monday

February 28 - PTA Meeting 9 a.m.

March 10 - 14 - Spring Book Fair

March 12 - Literacy Night 5 - 6:30 p.m.  Middle or high schooler volunteer? Here is a link - thanks for spreading the word! 

March 21 - Yearbook Order Deadline

March 21 - Kent Gardens' Washington Wizards game - come watch with your friends  - link below! 

March 27 - PTA Meeting with Guest Speaker - Mary Smith  7 p.m. (See info. below!)

May 3 - Spring Spectacular Fun Run and 5K

2024-25 FCPS School Calendar

Administration Notes

Dear Parents, 

We have gotten some additional feedback from our police officer who supports our dismissal.  If you are a parent who utilizes the small cul de sac  to pick up your child(ren), the police officer has shared that ALL must respect our neighbors' driveways.  You must be a minimum of 3 feet from the driveway.  This distance will permit the owner of the house to have ingress/egress. In addition, it is state law that cell phones are not used while driving.  

This past week, we shared that after school, while custodians cleaned, some rooms were vandalized and some school/teacher items were removed. We did report to school security and the police department.  We have placed new procedures while cleaning the school to ensure all rooms are kept safe when the school is used for after school activities from the community etc.  Students and parents have been very thoughtful in sending their kind words and offering to help. We will continue to investigate with the support of security and are all fine at this time. 

On a lighter note, students weighed in on our possible snow event...they felt very positive about predicting snow!  We will see! 

We are very excited about Math/STEAM Night that is coming up on 2/13!  We have some fabulous vendors and great activities.  Do you know a middle/high school student that needs volunteer hours?  Here is a link!  Thursday will also a spirit day ~ dress in STEAM theme - arts, engineering, technology - get creative!  

Warmly,

Holly McGuigan       Tia Hawkins                Sarah Talley

Principal                   Assistant Principal      Assistant Principal

STEAM Night! February 13th 5 - 6:30 p.m.

We are looking forward to STEAM Night on February 13th.  We have the Mad Scientist, Robotics and more!  Come enjoy the evening - our teachers will be there as well with fun activities! 

Thursday will also a spirit day ~ dress in STEAM theme - arts, engineering, technology - get creative!  

Do you know a middle or high schooler that would like to volunteer? Here is a link - thanks for spreading the word!  

The 6th Grade will be hosting a fundraising booth during this year's STEAM night that will feature baked goods and creative items for sale, all contributed by our amazing community. Proceeds go towards the 6th grade promotion ceremony and party. The 6th graders need our community's help with donations of baked goods and small items to make this a success. Stay tuned for a sign-up genius and more information!

Student Intentions - 2025-26 School Year 

Please indicate your child(ren)'s intention for the next school year if you are moving or will attend another school. One form should be completed for each child ONLY if you are moving or will attend another school. This input will support our staffing and planning for the next school year. This information is non binding but will simply be used to plan. If you are returning, you do NOT need to complete this form. The link to the form is here.

Rising Kindergarten Student Intention 2025-26

Please complete this form if you have a rising kindergartner and plan on attending Kent Gardens. If you are hopeful to attend, you may complete but please note your status in the form below. We are not using this data for evaluative purposes nor for placement purposes but merely to collect information for the beginning of the school year. All students come in at various levels academically and socially. We are excited for our 2025-26 kindergarten students! 

Kindergarten Parent Information Meeting will be through Zoom (link to follow) on March 21st at 8 a.m.  Sign up here to receive the link.

The Parent Tour and Kindergarten Student Orientation is on Tuesday, April  at 1st 2:00 p.m. (Parents and students attend together) Link is here to reserve your tour time.  

Kindergarten Registration

If you have a child who will be 5 years old by September 30, they are eligible to attend Kindergarten for the upcoming year. Registration paperwork can be downloaded at this link. Once you have completed the paperwork and gathered the required documents, please come into the front office to meet with our registrar, Annie Joseph. 

Alternatively, you can now choose to use online registration tool.  If you choose the online option, you will then have to come into the office with the child’s original birth certificate, your proof of residence (deed/lease) and your ID.  You can contact Annie Joseph to coordinate a convenient time. 

Immersion Registration

FCPS offers DLI programs in French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. Online lottery application closed on February 13 at 4 pm for rising kindergarten and first graders dependent upon the school. A SIS account is required to complete the application. If a student is not currently enrolled in FCPS, registration at the base school is required. Please contact Annie Joseph, [email protected] if you need a create an account and live in our boundary. FCPS does not provide transportation for students who live outside the attendance area of the DLI school. A one-time fee of $100 must be paid upon acceptance of an out-of-boundary placement (see Notice 5922).   

Program Sites and Informational Meetings - The dates for various schools are in this link. For registration information, please visit: https://www.fcps.edu/registration/dual-language-immersionprograms-registration . For general program information: https://www.fcps.edu/academics/elementary/worldlanguages-immersion-programs

More Snow Forecasts! 

Dear Families,

This week, our school community will focus on the character strength of Love. Love means you value close relationships with others and being close to people.  Love is shown through our thoughts, feelings, and actions toward those we care about. When we love someone, we comfort them, make them feel safe, support them during tough times, and often put their needs before our own. When someone loves us, we feel safe and secure and can be ourselves around them. We miss them when they are not around.

Love is important for our community and society. We all depend on each other for happiness and well-being. Love creates positive feelings, helping to reduce loneliness, anxiety, and depression. Without love, we can't form strong bonds with our families, friends, or communities. A world without love would be a lonely and unsafe place.

To practice and encourage the character strength of love at home, please visit The Positivity Project’s mobile-friendly P2 for Families (available in English and Spanish), where you will watch a video together and discuss a quote and three questions. Below are links to this week’s P2 for Families lessons. Click on the grade level that best meets your child’s needs.

Pre-K–K

Grades 1–2

Grades 3–5

Grades 6–8

Grades 9–12

News from Shelley Lowinger - Parent Liaison

Virtual Parent Café….You Are Not Alone!  All are invited to participate via Zoom in PEATC (Parent Educational Advocacy Training Center’s presentation titled Understanding the Dynamics of Cyberbullying, Technology and our Youth on Tuesday, February 11th from 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.   For more information, please contact [email protected] or call (703) 324-7720. Join online via Zoom at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89036657824.

Fairfax County Park Authority  Looking for different Spring Break and Summer Camp options?  Check out the links below as well as the attached summer camp guide to learn more about program offerings.   

Spring/Summer Camps – Registration opens this week!

Parktakes Spring Classes start registration on February 11, 2025

Virginia Department of Education Kindness Week Did you know Kindness Week is celebrated the second week of February each year?  This special week recognizes simple day-to-day acts of kindness enabling our schools, community, and state to be a kinder, safer, healthier and more inclusive place to live, work, learn and play.  Below are just a few ideas to celebrate Kindness Week together at home and school:

*Smile and say good morning to 3 people you pass in the hallways at school or taking a walk in your neighborhood

*Help with a chore or two and with clean up at home

*Write a thank you note or draw a picture for someone special to show how much you care for them

*Thank someone at home, at school or in your community that keeps you safe or takes care of you

*Write a message in chalk on the sidewalk to brighten someone’s day

*Give a compliment or encourage someone

Proposed Budget

The Fairfax County School Board discussed the FCPS Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Proposed Budget at their work session on February 4. They discussed details regarding student enrollment and investments in students requiring additional support, market comparison data for surrounding school divisions, and an update on progress toward achieving the Baldrige Award for Performance Excellence. Baldrige is a framework used to assess and improve organizational performance across various sectors, including education. The School Board also held a public hearing on February 4, where they invited the community to share their feedback on the proposed budget.

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

The QR code above and the link is here to purchase the yearbook. Use code 21772. We will close the purchase window March 21, 2025.  Buy now to ensure you will have a yearbook for your child(ren)! 

Immunization Reminder

Please make sure your child has all of their necessary immunizations. Remember, all students are required to be immunized against certain diseases to attend school in Virginia. This is an important part of keeping children healthy!

Starting Monday, May 19, students who have not provided proof of immunization may not be allowed to attend school. You can check your child’s immunization status and submit updated immunization information by accessing SIS ParentVUE. 

Please check with your healthcare provider to make sure your child is up to date on required immunizations for the 2024-25 school year. If your child needs an immunization, make an appointment with your healthcare provider, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or view other Immunization Resources. Be wise and immunize!

Students Invitation ~ Share Your Voice at the 2025 Family Summit

The 2025 FCPS Family Summit will take place on Saturday, March 15, at South Lakes High School. Visit the Family Summit webpage for more information. At the event, FCPS students will be invited to showcase projects and advocacy efforts around inclusivity in schools. This is a great resume-building opportunity, and students can earn service hours as well. Students may share their work in a share-fair environment using posters, essays, videos, songs, or art. They will interact with attendees through conversations about their work, ideas, and efforts to foster inclusivity in school communities. 

Students must use this Google Form to participate by Monday, February 17. A list of possible projects is also on the form. More information will be provided after the student’s submission is received. Please contact Manuel Gomez Portillo with any questions. ✨ Centering student voice is part of FCPS’ Strategic Plan Goal 2: Safe, Supported, Included, and Empowered. 

PTA News

PTA membership for the school year costs $20 and is about more than monthly meetings and the odd event here and there. The PTA supports schools and that means staff, teachers, students and their families in ways that go beyond what any one group would be capable of on their own. Make joining the PTA at Kent Gardens a priority. We can't be the PTA we are without parents and other caring adults like YOU!

We are still searching for a President Elect to join our PTA board.  Contact Jenny Gregory, PTA President for more information

Our Next PTA Meeting: February 28 at 9am

We are still searching for a President Elect to join our PTA board.  Contact Jenny Gregory, PTA President for more information!

Our next General Meeting will be February 28 at 9am in the cafeteria!

This year, our evening PTA Meeting will be held on Thursday, March 27th at 7pm. We will have a quick meeting, followed by our guest of honor, Mary Willcox Smith. Ms. Smith is a Parent Coach, Speaker, and Author of the book Small Moments, The MicroStep Method® for the Overwhelmed Parent. Join us while she speaks on The Power of Small: How simple shifts can turn overwhelm into connection and resilience.In this engaging presentation, filled with humor, real-life stories, and transformative insights, you’ll discover how to turn daily struggles into small shifts that spark lasting change—helping you parent with confidence and ease. Parents may submit questions prior to the evening here.

Make a Difference This Year! - Volunteer Opportunities

Sixth Grade Promotion Party Planning Meeting! Join us on February 12 at 845am in the cafeteria for the 6th grade Promotion Party Planning Meeting. Volunteers will plan activities, fundraising, decorations, and food for this epic party in June to send off this year's 6th graders in true KG style (over the top awesome goodness, of course)! If you’re interested in helping and missed the very first email, email [email protected] to be included.

Book Fair Planning - The Spring Book Fair is run by the PTA (with a massive assist from Mrs. Hershey and Ms. Nabaki) and helps us raise money to support Kent Gardens. For a successful book fair, we need YOUR help! Join us for our book fair planning meeting on Wednesday, February 19 at 9am in the Cafeteria.

Book Fair Co-Chair If you love the book fair as much as we do, consider becoming a co-chair this year with Andrea Hagar. The Spring Book Fair is run by the PTA with support from our library staff. You'll learn alongside our seasoned book fair volunteers this spring! Contact Andrea at [email protected] to learn more!

Teacher and Staff Love Wednesdays  The KGES Wellness Committee has shared that teachers and staff LOVE when there is coffee/tea available for them in the lounge...and they REALLY love treats! Help us shower our teachers and staff with love every Wednesday this year by bringing in coffee/tea, snacks, bags of mini candies, or whatever goodies you think might help sweeten their day.  You can also help stack the staff lounge with paper plates/cups/napkins...etc. Please choose a slot to volunteer and drop off in the Staff Lounge by 8am on Wednesdays to show some love and support for our fabulous teachers and staff.

KGES Food Bus Food Rescue Program Volunteers Needed Do you have a half-hour to spare on Friday afternoons to deliver food to SHARE of McLean Food Pantry at McLean Baptist Church? Interested in getting involved in this program? Please sign up HERE and/or email [email protected] or [email protected] with questions. Service hours available for middle/high school students! Thank you for your ongoing support. We could not do this amazing program without you!

Come Watch the Wizards! 

Please join us for Kent Gardens Elementary Night at the Wizards on Friday, March 21st! All purchasers through this special link will receive a discounted ticket price, with a portion of each ticket sold will go back to Kent Gardens Elementary PTA! After the game, join us for a concert by DJ Diesel AKA Shaquille O'Neal! https://fevo-enterprise.com/event/Kent25

Girls on the Run Starts March 3

Registration for Girls on the Run is now open through Feb. 23 at gotrnova.org. Practices begin March 3 and will take place either M/W or Tu/Th between 3:45-5 p.m. We are still looking for one adult coach or practice partner for the Tu/Th team. The kids of parent volunteers are guaranteed a spot in the program and coaches' kids get a registration discount. Please contact Danielle Newman at [email protected] if you're interested in volunteering.

1717 Melbourne Drive, McLean, VA 22101 |  Phone: 703.394.5600  

 Attendance: 703.394.5656 or [email protected]

Web | Twitter

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

Spirit Day! 

We all wore our jerseys and celebrated the end of the week! #kgpride #StrongerTogether #WeAllBelong

Plan Forward - Dates to Mark on Your Calendar

February 3 - 7 - School Counselor Appreciation Week

February 4- 2nd quarter report cards available in SIS ParentVUE

February 8 - Book Fair Planning Meeting - Cafeteria (PTA info below)

February 11 - Spelling Bee  KG Library 2 p.m.

February 13 - Math/STEAM Night! 5 - 6:30 p.m.  Middle or high schooler volunteer? Here is a link - thanks for spreading the word! 

February 13 - Immersion Registration Link Closed

February 17 - President's Day Holiday

February 20 - School Club Pictures

February 24 - Three Hour Early Release Monday

February 28 - PTA Meeting 9 a.m.

March 10 - 14 - Spring Book Fair

March 12 - Literacy Night 5 - 6:30 p.m.  Middle or high schooler volunteer? Here is a link - thanks for spreading the word! 

March 21 - Yearbook Order Deadline

March 21 - Kent Gardens' Washington Wizards game - come watch with your friends  - link below! 

March 27 - PTA Meeting with Guest Speaker - Mary Smith  7 p.m. (See info. below!)

May 3 - Spring Spectacular Fun Run and 5K

2024-25 FCPS School Calendar

Administration Notes

Dear Parents, 

Please note that we have a 3 hour early release this month. We will be using the past dates decisions on student pick up etc.  You will receive an email indicating your past decision.  Call the office to change your child(ren)s departure.  

This week is Counselor Appreciation Week - what would we do without our simply FABULOUS counselors!! Show Ms. Altman and Ms. Fernandez some love! 

Math/STEAM Night is coming up on 2/13!  We have some fabulous vendors and great activities.  Do you know a middle/high school student that needs volunteer hours?  Here is a link! 

Warmly,

Holly McGuigan       Tia Hawkins                Sarah Talley

Principal                   Assistant Principal      Assistant Principal

Counselor Appreciation Week! - Feb 3 - 7 

We simply LOVE ♥ and APPRECIATE our counselors!  Please show your support and join us in thanking Mrs. Fernandez and Ms. Altman for all they do for our school!  

STEAM Night! February 13th 5 - 6:30 p.m.

We are looking forward to STEAM Night on February 13th.  We have the Mad Scientist, Robotics and more!  Come enjoy the evening - our teachers will be there as well with fun activities! 

Do you know a middle or high schooler that would like to volunteer? Here is a link - thanks for spreading the word!  

The 6th Grade will be hosting a fundraising booth during this year's STEAM night that will feature baked goods and creative items for sale, all contributed by our amazing community. Proceeds go towards the 6th grade promotion ceremony and party. The 6th graders need our community's help with donations of baked goods and small items to make this a success. Stay tuned for a sign-up genius and more information!

Student Intentions - 2025-26 School Year 

Please indicate your child(ren)'s intention for the next school year if you are moving or will attend another school. One form should be completed for each child ONLY if you are moving or will attend another school. This input will support our staffing and planning for the next school year. This information is non binding but will simply be used to plan. If you are returning, you do NOT need to complete this form. The link to the form is here.

Rising Kindergarten Student Intention 2025-26

Please complete this form if you have a rising kindergartner and plan on attending Kent Gardens. If you are hopeful to attend, you may complete but please note your status in the form below. We are not using this data for evaluative purposes nor for placement purposes but merely to collect information for the beginning of the school year. All students come in at various levels academically and socially. We are excited for our 2025-26 kindergarten students! 

Kindergarten Parent Information Meeting will be through Zoom (link to follow) on March 21st at 8 a.m.  Sign up here to receive the link.

The Parent Tour and Kindergarten Student Orientation is on Tuesday, April  at 1st 2:00 p.m. (Parents and students attend together) Link is here to reserve your tour time.  

Kindergarten Registration

If you have a child who will be 5 years old by September 30, they are eligible to attend Kindergarten for the upcoming year. Registration paperwork can be downloaded at this link. Once you have completed the paperwork and gathered the required documents, please come into the front office to meet with our registrar, Annie Joseph. 

Alternatively, you can now choose to use online registration tool.  If you choose the online option, you will then have to come into the office with the child’s original birth certificate, your proof of residence (deed/lease) and your ID.  You can contact Annie Joseph to coordinate a convenient time. 

Immersion Registration

FCPS offers DLI programs in French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. Online lottery application closed on February 13 at 4 pm for rising kindergarten and first graders dependent upon the school. A SIS account is required to complete the application. If a student is not currently enrolled in FCPS, registration at the base school is required. Please contact Annie Joseph, [email protected] if you need a create an account and live in our boundary. FCPS does not provide transportation for students who live outside the attendance area of the DLI school. A one-time fee of $100 must be paid upon acceptance of an out-of-boundary placement (see Notice 5922).   

Program Sites and Informational Meetings - The dates for various schools are in this link. For registration information, please visit: https://www.fcps.edu/registration/dual-language-immersionprograms-registration . For general program information: https://www.fcps.edu/academics/elementary/worldlanguages-immersion-programs

Rainy Day Recess!

Dear Families,

This week, our school community will focus on the character strength of Optimism. Optimism means that you expect the best from the future and work to achieve it. Optimistic people have hope and confidence about the future. They believe good things will come and stay positive even when faced with challenges. They turn obstacles into steps toward their goals.

Optimism isn't just seeing the world through rose-colored glasses. It's about focusing on the good in any situation, staying open to opportunities, and managing emotions. Optimistic people make great leaders and can inspire others with their positive outlook and ability to find meaning in difficult times.

To practice and encourage the character strength of optimism at home, please visit The Positivity Project’s mobile-friendly P2 for Families (available in English and Spanish), where you will watch a video together and discuss a quote and three questions. Below are links to this week’s P2 for Families lessons. Click on the grade level that best meets your child’s needs.

Pre-K–K

Grades 1–2

Grades 3–5

Grades 6–8

Grades 9–12

News from Shelley Lowinger - Parent Liaison

Fairfax County Park Authority is celebrating the Lunar New Year on Saturday, February 8th from 6-8 p.m. at the Twin Lakes Golf Course 6201 Union Mill Road • Clifton.  There will be performances, demonstrations and local food trucks. Free, registration required.  Lunar New Year Flyer

Reading Opens the World Book Drive and Family Literacy Fair on Feb. 8th from 10  - 2 p.m. at the Lorton Community Center, 9520 Richmond Hwy, Lorton, VA

Free Books for Families and Educators! • Books are available on a first-come, first served basis, so arrive early! • Parents and guardians are welcome to choose up to 10 free books per child for home libraries, with a 30 books maximum limit per family. • Educators and school staff may choose up to 50 free books for their classrooms. • Fun family activities including DJ, food trucks, and free Valentine’s Day card making area! 

• For more information, please contact David Walrod: [email protected], 703-451-6840 
• Fairfax County ROTW Flyer English
• Fairfax County ROTW Flyer Spanish

Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost for all FCPS Students K-12 - FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes; on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring; essay editing; and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

Cold-Weather Clothing - If you need assistance getting cold-weather clothing for your family, please contact Shelley Lowinger, our Family Liaison, at [email protected].  You may also contact Fairfax County Coordinated Services Planning (CSP) at (703) 222-0880.  Their multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance and health care.

Proposed Budget

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid presented the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Proposed Budget at the School Board meeting on Thursday, January 23. Watch a video of the presentation. The proposed budget reflects FCPS’ continued focus on providing a world-class education for each and every student while recognizing the hard work and commitment of our outstanding employees. The budget focuses on competitive compensation — including a 7% salary increase for all staff — investing in students who require additional support, and the continuation of multiyear investments. It reflects the needs of and FCPS’ commitments to Fairfax County students, families, and community members. Learn more on the Budget website. 

📈 Virginia’s Student Assessment Summary for Families

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

Reports are available now in SIS ParentVUE Documents. We will distribute them to students whose families do not have ParentVUE access. Learn how to access ParentVUE. The report is intended to help families reflect on how their child performed across all tested subjects over the years. Our staff members are committed to working with families to help every student reach their highest potential. Learn more about student assessments in FCPS.

The QR code above and the link is here to purchase the yearbook. Use code 21772. We will close the purchase window March 21, 2025.  Buy now to ensure you will have a yearbook for your child(ren)! 

Longfellow Rising 7th Grader Update

It was such a pleasure meeting many of our rising 7th graders, parents, and guardians during last week’s Curriculum Night! We hope you found the evening informative and gained valuable insights into our curriculum, course offerings, and the wonderful opportunities to connect with our staff and students. If you weren’t able to attend, no problem! All presentations are available on the LMS Academic Advising website for your convenience.  Thank you for your partnership—we’re excited to work together to support your student’s success as they begin their middle school journey!

Middle School Transition

The Middle School Transition Matters Newsletter: Elementary Edition is here! This Winter 2024-25 edition helps foster curiosity, self-awareness, and career readiness in elementary students. It includes practical tips, activities, and local resource ideas to connect classroom learning with real-life experiences.  Highlights include: ideas for integrating transition planning into lessons and family discussions; strategies to build self-awareness and explore interests; fun ways to introduce career awareness through reflection, exploration, sharing, and activities; hands-on group projects and pre-vocational activities to build real-world work skills.

Rising 7th Grader Immunization Requirements

Parents of rising 7th graders have received an email regarding your child(ren)'s  immunizations.  The Code of Virginia, requires all students to be immunized against certain communicable diseases. All students entering 7th grade are required to receive one dose of each of the following immunizations prior to the beginning of school: Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis booster (Tdap), Meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY) and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.  Additional information regarding compliance will be in the letter.

PTA News

PTA membership for the school year costs $20 and is about more than monthly meetings and the odd event here and there. The PTA supports schools and that means staff, teachers, students and their families in ways that go beyond what any one group would be capable of on their own. Make joining the PTA at Kent Gardens a priority. We can't be the PTA we are without parents and other caring adults like YOU!

We are still searching for a President Elect to join our PTA board.  Contact Jenny Gregory, PTA President for more information

Our Next PTA Meeting: February 28 at 9am

We are still searching for a President Elect to join our PTA board.  Contact Jenny Gregory, PTA President for more information!

Our next General Meeting will be February 28 at 9am in the cafeteria!

This year, our evening PTA Meeting will be held on Thursday, March 27th at 7pm. We will have a quick meeting, followed by our guest of honor, Mary Willcox Smith. Ms. Smith is a Parent Coach, Speaker, and Author of the book Small Moments, The MicroStep Method® for the Overwhelmed Parent. Join us while she speaks on The Power of Small: How simple shifts can turn overwhelm into connection and resilience.In this engaging presentation, filled with humor, real-life stories, and transformative insights, you’ll discover how to turn daily struggles into small shifts that spark lasting change—helping you parent with confidence and ease. Parents may submit questions prior to the evening here.

Make a Difference This Year! - Volunteer Opportunities

Sixth Grade Promotion Party Planning Meeting! Join us on February 12 at 845am in the cafeteria for the 6th grade Promotion Party Planning Meeting. Volunteers will plan activities, fundraising, decorations, and food for this epic party in June to send off this year's 6th graders in true KG style (over the top awesome goodness, of course)! If you’re interested in helping and missed the very first email, email [email protected] to be included.

Book Fair Planning - The Spring Book Fair is run by the PTA (with a massive assist from Mrs. Hershey and Ms. Nabaki) and helps us raise money to support Kent Gardens. For a successful book fair, we need YOUR help!

Do you love the smell of fresh books as the bankers boxes are opened? Do you remember the joy of walking into your school's book fair? Do you want to help encourage kiddos to expand their love of reading? Or maybe you just want to spend a few days hanging out with our incredible school library staff! Join us for our book fair planning meeting on Wednesday, February 19 at 9am in the Cafeteria.

Teacher and Staff Love Wednesdays  The KGES Wellness Committee has shared that teachers and staff LOVE when there is coffee/tea available for them in the lounge...and they REALLY love treats! Help us shower our teachers and staff with love every Wednesday this year by bringing in coffee/tea, snacks, bags of mini candies, or whatever goodies you think might help sweeten their day.  You can also help stack the staff lounge with paper plates/cups/napkins...etc. Please choose a slot to volunteer and drop off in the Staff Lounge by 8am on Wednesdays to show some love and support for our fabulous teachers and staff.

KGES Food Bus Food Rescue Program Volunteers Needed Do you have a half-hour to spare on Friday afternoons to deliver food to SHARE of McLean Food Pantry at McLean Baptist Church? Interested in getting involved in this program? Please sign up HERE and/or email [email protected] or [email protected] with questions. Service hours available for middle/high school students! Thank you for your ongoing support. We could not do this amazing program without you!

Come Watch the Wizards! 

Please join us for Kent Gardens Elementary Night at the Wizards on Friday, March 21st! All purchasers through this special link will receive a discounted ticket price, with a portion of each ticket sold will go back to Kent Gardens Elementary PTA! After the game, join us for a concert by DJ Diesel AKA Shaquille O'Neal! https://fevo-enterprise.com/event/Kent25

Chess Club Starts This Week

Spring Chess Club will start 2/5 and run through 5/28. Chess club will be announced at dismissal and student report to the cafeteria at 3:45 p.m.  Parents pick up outside of cafeteria at 5:15 p.m. There are only a few spots open - $185 per session.  Register here. 

1717 Melbourne Drive, McLean, VA 22101 |  Phone: 703.394.5600  

 Attendance: 703.394.5656 or [email protected]

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Heritage Night

Thanks to our PTA and all of our parents for supporting!  It was a fabulous evening!! #kgpride

Plan Forward - Dates to Mark on Your Calendar

January 27:  Strings Concert:  5:30PM 4th Grade, 6:15PM 5th & 6th Grades

January 28 - End of the Quarter 

January 29- Teacher Workday - Student Holiday

February 4- 2nd quarter report cards available in SIS ParentVUE

February 13 - Save the Date!  Math/STEAM Night! 5 - 6:30 p.m.  A wonderful evening to enjoy using our critical thinking skills! 

February 13 - Immersion Registration Link Closed

February 17 - President's Day Holiday

February 24 - Three Hour Early Release Monday

February 28 - PTA Meeting 9 a.m.

March 21 - Yearbook Order Deadline

2024-25 FCPS School Calendar

Administration Notes

Dear Parents, 

Recently, we have had some challenges at dismissal. There are 2 options for dismissal if you, as a parent/guardian, are picking up your child(ren).  Your child should be met as a walker or picked up in the kiss and ride area.  The playground is not a meeting place for students after school - especially without parent supervision. If you are unable to pick up your child on a timely basis, please coordinate with another parent and notify the office.  Students should not be unsupervised at the end of the day. 

Our police officer, who supports our walkers and dismissal after school, also shared that many parents are not following guidelines for pick up.  Parents must NOT block any driveways (especially in the cul de sac ) and should always respect the property and residents in the neighborhood.  There may be tickets given in the future should parents park in front of driveways and in other non parking areas no matter the timeframe in which are parked.

We will be remitting information regarding attendance for your child(ren).  The VDOE has now deemed 15 absences (excused or unexcused) as 'chronic absenteeism'. Data shows that students missing 10% of school (2 days a month) negatively affects their academic performance. Your child's attendance matters and if you are at the 15 day number, we will be contacting you for next steps.

Please note that this coming Wednesday (1/29) is a Teacher Workday ~ student holiday. We look forward to seeing our students back at school on Thursday.

Last but not least, we will be transitioning to outdoor recess.  Please dress your child appropriately.  Remind your child(ren) that throwing of snow/ice is NOT acceptable.  All students need to be safe. Thanks as always for your support! 

Warmly,

Holly McGuigan       Tia Hawkins                Sarah Talley

Principal                   Assistant Principal      Assistant Principal

Student Intentions - 2025-26 School Year 

Please indicate your child(ren)'s intention for the next school year if you are moving or will attend another school. One form should be completed for each child ONLY if you are moving or will attend another school. This input will support our staffing and planning for the next school year. This information is non binding but will simply be used to plan. If you are returning, you do NOT need to complete this form. The link to the form is here.

Rising Kindergarten Student Intention 2025-26

Please complete this form if you have a rising kindergartner and plan on attending Kent Gardens. If you are hopeful to attend, you may complete but please note your status in the form below. We are not using this data for evaluative purposes nor for placement purposes but merely to collect information for the beginning of the school year. All students come in at various levels academically and socially. We are excited for our 2025-26 kindergarten students! 

Kindergarten Parent Information Meeting will be through Zoom (link to follow) on March 21st at 8 a.m.  Sign up here to receive the link.

The Parent Tour and Kindergarten Student Orientation is on Tuesday, April  at 1st 2:00 p.m. (Parents and students attend together) Link is here to reserve your tour time.  

Kindergarten Registration

If you have a child who will be 5 years old by September 30, they are eligible to attend Kindergarten for the upcoming year. Registration paperwork can be downloaded at this link. Once you have completed the paperwork and gathered the required documents, please come into the front office to meet with our registrar, Annie Joseph. 

Alternatively, you can now choose to use online registration tool.  If you choose the online option, you will then have to come into the office with the child’s original birth certificate, your proof of residence (deed/lease) and your ID.  You can contact Annie Joseph to coordinate a convenient time. 

Immersion Registration

FCPS offers DLI programs in French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. Online lottery application closed on February 13 at 4 pm for rising kindergarten and first graders dependent upon the school. A SIS account is required to complete the application. If a student is not currently enrolled in FCPS, registration at the base school is required. Please contact Annie Joseph, [email protected] if you need a create an account and live in our boundary. FCPS does not provide transportation for students who live outside the attendance area of the DLI school. A one-time fee of $100 must be paid upon acceptance of an out-of-boundary placement (see Notice 5922).   

Program Sites and Informational Meetings - The dates for various schools are in this link. For registration information, please visit: https://www.fcps.edu/registration/dual-language-immersionprograms-registration . For general program information: https://www.fcps.edu/academics/elementary/worldlanguages-immersion-programs

Dear Families,

This week, our school community will focus on the character strength of Social Intelligence. Social intelligence means understanding other people's thoughts and feelings and why they act the way they do.

Social intelligence helps us build good relationships by being aware of others’ emotions and behaviors. It is different from "book smarts" and grows with experience. It also allows people to connect, form friendships, and protect themselves from being taken advantage of. It also helps us read facial expressions and understand what motivates others.

To practice and encourage the character strength of social intelligence at home, please visit The Positivity Project’s mobile-friendly P2 for Families (available in English and Spanish), where you will watch a video together and discuss a quote and three questions. Below are links to this week’s P2 for Families lessons. Click on the grade level that best meets your child’s needs.

Pre-K–K

Grades 1–2

Grades 3–5

Grades 6–8

Grades 9–12

News from Shelley Lowinger - Parent Liaison

Handy Dandy Links for Attendance and Student Transportation Updates -Check out a few useful links that will be helpful for any attendance and student transportation temporary updates. Please use the following link for submitting a request for attendance changes and updates including early check out or late arrival.  To report a full day absence, parents / legal guardians should submit this information using ParentVUE.  We request that any temporary changes in student transportation be submitted electronically here.

Chocolate, Chocolate and more Chocolate! My favorite food group is chocolate, and I wanted to share 2 of my favorite upcoming community festivals.  Looking for something to do today (Sunday)? Head to McLean Community Center with your friends and family in indulge in McLean’s 13th annual Chocolate Festival.   And if that’s not enough chocolate for you, check out City of Fairfax’s Chocolate Festival next weekend.   Yummy treats, great music and a good time will be had by all. 

Free Webinars and Events for Familiesv - Upcoming free webinars and events for families hosted by the Family Resource Center (FRC) include: Depression in Teens; Understanding Trauma in Your Child/Comprendiedo el Trauma en su Hijo (presented in Spanish).  Sign up for the FRC newsletter to receive additional webinar and event information.

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

Proposed Budget

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid presented the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Proposed Budget at the School Board meeting on Thursday, January 23. Watch a video of the presentation. The proposed budget reflects FCPS’ continued focus on providing a world-class education for each and every student while recognizing the hard work and commitment of our outstanding employees. The budget focuses on competitive compensation — including a 7% salary increase for all staff — investing in students who require additional support, and the continuation of multiyear investments. It reflects the needs of and FCPS’ commitments to Fairfax County students, families, and community members. Learn more on the Budget website. 

📈 Virginia’s Student Assessment Summary for Families

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

Reports are available now in SIS ParentVUE Documents. We will distribute them to students whose families do not have ParentVUE access. Learn how to access ParentVUE. The report is intended to help families reflect on how their child performed across all tested subjects over the years. Our staff members are committed to working with families to help every student reach their highest potential. Learn more about student assessments in FCPS.

The QR code above and the link is here to purchase the yearbook. Use code 21772. We will close the purchase window March 21, 2025.  Buy now to ensure you will have a yearbook for your child(ren)! 

Longfellow Rising 7th Grader Update

It was such a pleasure meeting many of our rising 7th graders, parents, and guardians during last week’s Curriculum Night! We hope you found the evening informative and gained valuable insights into our curriculum, course offerings, and the wonderful opportunities to connect with our staff and students. If you weren’t able to attend, no problem! All presentations are available on the LMS Academic Advising website for your convenience.  Thank you for your partnership—we’re excited to work together to support your student’s success as they begin their middle school journey!

Middle School Transition

The Middle School Transition Matters Newsletter: Elementary Edition is here! This Winter 2024-25 edition helps foster curiosity, self-awareness, and career readiness in elementary students. It includes practical tips, activities, and local resource ideas to connect classroom learning with real-life experiences.  Highlights include: ideas for integrating transition planning into lessons and family discussions; strategies to build self-awareness and explore interests; fun ways to introduce career awareness through reflection, exploration, sharing, and activities; hands-on group projects and pre-vocational activities to build real-world work skills.

Rising 7th Grader Immunization Requirements

Parents of rising 7th graders will receive an email child(ren)'s  immunizations.  The Code of Virginia, requires all students to be immunized against certain communicable diseases. All students entering 7th grade are required to receive one dose of each of the following immunizations prior to the beginning of school: Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis booster (Tdap), Meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY) and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.  Additional information regarding compliance will be in the letter.

PTA News

PTA membership for the school year costs $20 and is about more than monthly meetings and the odd event here and there. The PTA supports schools and that means staff, teachers, students and their families in ways that go beyond what any one group would be capable of on their own. Make joining the PTA at Kent Gardens a priority. We can't be the PTA we are without parents and other caring adults like YOU!

We are still searching for a President Elect to join our PTA board.  Contact Jenny Gregory, PTA President for more information

Our Next PTA Meeting: February 28 at 9am

We are still searching for a President Elect to join our PTA board.  Contact Jenny Gregory, PTA President for more information!

Our next General Meeting will be February 28 at 9am in the cafeteria!

Make a Difference This Year! - Volunteer Opportunities

Teacher and Staff Love Wednesdays  The KGES Wellness Committee has shared that teachers and staff LOVE when there is coffee/tea available for them in the lounge...and they REALLY love treats! Help us shower our teachers and staff with love every Wednesday this year by bringing in coffee/tea, snacks, bags of mini candies, or whatever goodies you think might help sweeten their day.  You can also help stack the staff lounge with paper plates/cups/napkins...etc. Please choose a slot to volunteer and drop off in the Staff Lounge by 8am on Wednesdays to show some love and support for our fabulous teachers and staff.

KGES Food Bus Food Rescue Program Volunteers Needed Do you have a half-hour to spare on Friday afternoons to deliver food to SHARE of McLean Food Pantry at McLean Baptist Church? Interested in getting involved in this program? Please sign up HERE and/or email [email protected] or [email protected] with questions. Service hours available for middle/high school students! Thank you for your ongoing support. We could not do this amazing program without you!

Chess Club Registration is Open!

Want to have fun and learn new strategic skills? Join Chess Club! Any Kent Gardens student in 2nd through 6th grade may sign up. Chess Club will meet on Wednesdays from 3:45pm to 5:15pm in the cafeteria at Kent Gardens Elementary.  The Spring session will start February 5th, and end May 28th. Registration deadline is Friday, January 31st, or until the class is full. Cost for the season is $185. 

Register here! https://kentgardenspta.com/product/chess-club/

If you need a password reset, please email [email protected]

1717 Melbourne Drive, McLean, VA 22101 |  Phone: 703.394.5600  

 Attendance: 703.394.5656 or [email protected]

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Heritage Night 1/25 

HERITAGE NIGHT is right around the corner!  We are looking for KG parent volunteers to help support the evening!  Here is a link to sign up as a parent volunteer for set up and coordination.  We also need volunteers from high school and middle school please Sign up here!

We are proud of the rich diversity found within our families and community of Kent Gardens. We look forward to celebrating with everyone after the New Year!

If you have any questions, please contact [email protected].This annual KGES tradition is a wonderful way to experience all the great cultures that make up our school community! There's a parade, activities, music - and the incredibly popular World Cafe set up in the Kent Gardens cafeteria! Kids can also visit all the countries and get their "passport books" stamped. It's one of our most loved events at KGES!

Volunteers (high school and middle school welcome) are needed to make this event a success. Sign up here!

Band Concert!  

Thanks to Mr. Zimmerman and Ms. Parrell!  Students were amazing.  We thoroughly enjoyed the concert and thank all of our parents for your support! 

Plan Forward - Dates to Mark on Your Calendar

January 20- Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday- no school

January 25: Heritage Night 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

January 27:  Strings Concert:  5:30PM 4th Grade, 6:15PM 5th & 6th Grades

January 28 - End of the Quarter 

January 29- Teacher Workday - Student Holiday

February 13 - Save the Date!  Math/STEAM Night! 5 - 6:30 p.m.  A wonderful evening to enjoy using our critical thinking skills! 

February 17 - President's Day Holiday

February 24 - Three Hour Early Release Monday

February 28 - PTA Meeting 9 a.m.

2024-25 FCPS School Calendar

Administration Notes

Dear Parents, 

This week looks to be a really chilly one!  As a reminder, please make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing. With the predicted weather, we are creatively working activities for indoor recess. We monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories that may prevent children from being outside for activities like recess or physical education. Visit Fairfax County’s website for Winter Weather/Extreme Cold safety tips. 

Please note that this coming Monday is Martin Luther King Day, so school will be closed.  We look forward to seeing our students back at school on Tuesday.

We have updated the timing of the mid year iReady assessments for January.  Parents please ensure that your child(ren) have headphones - these are essential for the iReady assessments. Below is the schedule:

• January 22 - Grade 4 Reading
• January 23 - Grade 6 Math
• February 4 - Grade 3 Math

Please think forward for activities in January and note the dates that we have shared below on your calendar. We appreciate your support! 

Warmly,

Holly McGuigan       Tia Hawkins                Sarah Talley

Principal                   Assistant Principal      Assistant Principal

The QR code above and the link is here to purchase the yearbook. Use code 21772. We will close the purchase window April 1, 2025.  Buy now to ensure you will have a yearbook for your child(ren)! 

Immersion Registration

FCPS offers DLI programs in French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. Online lottery application began on January 13 (8:30 a.m.) for rising kindergarten and first graders dependent upon the school. A SIS account is required to complete the application. If a student is not currently enrolled in FCPS, registration at the base school is required. Please contact Annie Joseph, [email protected] if you need a create an account and live in our boundary. FCPS does not provide transportation for students who live outside the attendance area of the DLI school. A one-time fee of $100 must be paid upon acceptance of an out-of-boundary placement (see Notice 5922).   

Program Sites and Informational Meetings - The dates for various schools are in this link. For registration information, please visit: https://www.fcps.edu/registration/dual-language-immersionprograms-registration . For general program information: https://www.fcps.edu/academics/elementary/worldlanguages-immersion-programs

Dear Families,

This week, our school community will focus on the character strength of Perseverance. Perseverance means completing what you start despite obstacles. It means never giving up. People who show perseverance keep trying, even when they face challenges. They stay focused on their goals and work hard, even when things don't go as planned. Those who persevere often achieve great things because they don't quit. They also learn a lot and get better at what they do.

Perseverance can also inspire others. When one person in a group keeps going despite setbacks, it can motivate the whole team to keep trying and reach their goals.  To practice and encourage the character strength of perseverance at home, please visit The Positivity Project’s mobile-friendly P2 for Families (available in English and Spanish), where you will watch a video together and discuss a quote and three questions. Below are links to this week’s P2 for Families lessons. Click on the grade level that best meets your child’s needs.

Pre-K–K

Grades 1–2

Grades 3–5

Grades 6–8

Grades 9–12

News from Shelley Lowinger - Parent Liaison

New to KGES Community? Welcome to Kent Gardens Elementary School!  Is your family new to the KGES community?  Have questions but don’t know who to ask?   My name is Shelley Lowinger, and I am the Family Liaison for Kent Gardens Elementary School this year.    My role is to support and facilitate communication between families and our wonderful school community.  Please do not hesitate to contact me if you need assistance or have any questions.   I look forward to partnering and supporting your family.   Here’s to a terrific school growing and learning together!

Crisis Assistance Program is accepting applications to assist households that are facing a utility disconnection for their primary heat source. The deadline to apply for Crisis Assistance is Monday, March 17, 2025.   Please note: Households are eligible to receive both Fuel Assistance and Crisis Assistance.

Fairfax County Public Library’s (FCPL) winter reading will continue through Friday, January 31, 2025. Visit your local FCPL library branch or visit their website to register and get a sneak peek at the prizes being offered.             

FCPS Trust Policy

April 28, 2022, the School Board voted to adopt the Trust Policy affirming our commitment to providing a safe and welcoming environment for all students and their families. This policy aligns Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) policy with Fairfax County Government's Public Trust and Confidentiality Policy. This policy ensures that students and families can access the division’s benefits and services without fear of information being disclosed, directly or indirectly, to federal immigration officials. To review the FCPS Trust Policy, please click here. 

Gradebook Available Until End-of-Quarter

Based on community feedback from the first quarter closure, FCPS revisited the scheduled dates for closing the Gradebook and Report Card modules in the SIS ParentVUE and StudentVUE apps. Moving forward, the app will close in alignment with the actual quarter-end dates. This change will allow students and families to view their assignments and grades until the last day of the quarter. Gradebook will be closed for the second quarter from Tuesday, January 28, 4 p.m. to Tuesday, February 4, 6 a.m.  

Access Your Child’s Grades Through SIS ParentVue - Learn how your ParentVUE account allows you to easily access grade reports and other helpful information about your child.

January is National Mentoring Month!

Imagine a world where young people feel empowered, encouraged, and understood. Mentors can make that world a reality by helping young people find and follow their passions, excel in school, and thrive wherever they are.Learn more about Mentoring Month.  Research has shown that young people with at least one trusted mentor are less likely to skip school, less likely to use illegal drugs or drink alcohol, and more prepared to enter college or the workforce. Yet one in three children lack a mentor.

All it takes is one person to serve as a trusted adult to help change a young person’s path in life. Mentors provide attention, support, and enrichment, and help connect their mentees to resources that may help them on their journey in life.   The FCPS MentorWorks program matches mentors with students in schools near where they live or work. They meet for at least 30 minutes a week. Learn more about how to become a mentor for an FCPS student. Contact Martha Macdonald, mentoring specialist, for additional information at [email protected].

Second Grade Indoor Recess! 

PTA News

PTA membership for the school year costs $20 and is about more than monthly meetings and the odd event here and there. The PTA supports schools and that means staff, teachers, students and their families in ways that go beyond what any one group would be capable of on their own. Make joining the PTA at Kent Gardens a priority. We can't be the PTA we are without parents and other caring adults like YOU!

We are still searching for a President Elect to join our PTA board.  Contact Jenny Gregory, PTA President for more information

Our Next PTA Meeting: February 28 at 9am

We are still searching for a President Elect to join our PTA board.  Contact Jenny Gregory, PTA President for more information!

Our next General Meeting will be January 17 at 9am in the cafeteria!

Make a Difference This Year! - Volunteer Opportunities

Teacher and Staff Love Wednesdays  The KGES Wellness Committee has shared that teachers and staff LOVE when there is coffee/tea available for them in the lounge...and they REALLY love treats! Help us shower our teachers and staff with love every Wednesday this year by bringing in coffee/tea, snacks, bags of mini candies, or whatever goodies you think might help sweeten their day.  You can also help stack the staff lounge with paper plates/cups/napkins...etc. Please choose a slot to volunteer and drop off in the Staff Lounge by 8am on Wednesdays to show some love and support for our fabulous teachers and staff.

KGES Food Bus Food Rescue Program Volunteers Needed Do you have a half-hour to spare on Friday afternoons to deliver food to SHARE of McLean Food Pantry at McLean Baptist Church? Interested in getting involved in this program? Please sign up HERE and/or email [email protected] or [email protected] with questions. Service hours available for middle/high school students! Thank you for your ongoing support. We could not do this amazing program without you!

Chess Club Registration is Open!

Want to have fun and learn new strategic skills? Join Chess Club! Any Kent Gardens student in 2nd through 6th grade may sign up. Chess Club will meet on Wednesdays from 3:45pm to 5:15pm in the cafeteria at Kent Gardens Elementary.  The Spring session will start February 5th, and end May 28th. Registration deadline is Friday, January 31st, or until the class is full. Cost for the season is $185. 

Register here! https://kentgardenspta.com/product/chess-club/

If you need a password reset, please email [email protected]

1717 Melbourne Drive, McLean, VA 22101 |  Phone: 703.394.5600  

 Attendance: 703.394.5656 or [email protected]

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Heritage Night 1/25 

HERITAGE NIGHT is right around the corner!  We are looking for KG parent volunteers to help support the evening!  Here is a link to sign up as a parent volunteer for set up and coordination.  We also need volunteers from high school and middle school please Sign up here!

We are proud of the rich diversity found within our families and community of Kent Gardens. We look forward to celebrating with everyone after the New Year!

If you have any questions, please contact [email protected].This annual KGES tradition is a wonderful way to experience all the great cultures that make up our school community! There's a parade, activities, music - and the incredibly popular World Cafe set up in the Kent Gardens cafeteria! Kids can also visit all the countries and get their "passport books" stamped. It's one of our most loved events at KGES!

Volunteers (high school and middle school welcome) are needed to make this event a success. Sign up here!

Snow Much Fun!  Plan Forward - Dates to Mark on Your Calendar

January 13-17- FCPS Family Math Week (see information below)

January 15:  Immersion Information Meeting 5:45 p.m. 

January 15: Rising 7th Grade Curriculum Night at Longfellow MS 6:00-8:00 PM (for parents and rising 7th grade students) see information below

January 16:  Band Concert 5:30 p.m.

January 17:  Parent Coffee 8:15 a.m. in Library and PTA Meeting 9:00 a.m. in Cafeteria

January 20- Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday- no school

January 25: Heritage Night 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

January 27:  Strings Concert:  5:30PM 4th Grade, 6:15PM 5th & 6th Grades

January 29- End of 2nd quarter Teacher Workday - Student Holiday

February 13 - Save the Date!  Math/STEAM Night! 5 - 6:30 p.m.  A wonderful evening to enjoy using our critical thinking skills! 

2024-25 FCPS School Calendar

Administration Notes

Dear Parents, 

It was a long winter break!  We are expecting to hear back from transportation with respect to busing issues from Friday.  Safety of our students is of utmost importance - stay tuned! If you want to be notified via text and emails, update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE. Emails and text messages are sent to parents and caregivers based on the addresses and cell phone numbers entered on this platform.

Since we have been out this past week, we have updated the timing of the mid year assessments for January. These will include the iReady in both math and reading for grades 3 - 6.  Students in grades 1 and 2 will take the math iReady and the teachers in K-3 will give the Virginia Language and Literacy Assessments.  Parents will be notified if additional supports will be needed based on the outcomes. Parents please ensure that your child(ren) have headphones - these are essential for the iReady assessments. Below is the schedule:

• January 13 - Grade 5 Math
• January 14 - Grade 2 Math and Grade 3 Reading
• January 15 - Grade 1 Math and Grade 6 Reading
• January 16 - Grade 5 Reading
• January 17 - Grade 4 Math 
• January 22 - Grade 4 Reading
• January 23 - Grade 6 Math
• February 4 - Grade 3 Math

We have a great deal taking place in January. Note the Immersion Information Session on the 15th in addition to Curriculum Night at Longfellow.  We have band and strings concerts as well as Heritage Night at the end of the month.  Also buy your yearbook now - see the link below! 

Warmly,

Holly McGuigan       Tia Hawkins                Sarah Talley

Principal                   Assistant Principal      Assistant Principal

The QR code above and the link is here to purchase the yearbook. Use code 21772. We will close the purchase window April 1, 2025.  Buy now to ensure you will have a yearbook for your child(ren)! 

FCPS Math Week- January13-17 

MIND Research is hosting family math week January 13 - January 17. During that time, students are encouraged to log onto the FCPS Family Math website to engage in math activities with their families at home that include stories with mathematical concepts connected to a variety of different math games from around the world. All activities are available in English and Spanish. To learn more about Family Math Nights check out this video.

Immersion Information Night

FCPS offers DLI programs in French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. Online lottery application begins on January 13 (8:30 a.m.) for rising kindergarten and first graders dependent upon the school. A SIS account is required to complete the application. If a student is not currently enrolled in FCPS, registration at the base school is required. Please contact Annie Joseph, [email protected] if you need a create an account and live in our boundary. FCPS does not provide transportation for students who live outside the attendance area of the DLI school. A one-time fee of $100 must be paid upon acceptance of an out-of-boundary placement (see Notice 5922).   

Program Sites and Informational Meetings - The dates for various schools are in this link.  These schools offer county-wide DLI program enrollment for the 2025-2026 school year. Parents are encouraged to attend one of the informational meetings. Meetings will be held at the elementary school listed except for the virtual event.

Kent Gardens will have the immersion program interest session on January 15 at 5:45 p.m. in the cafeteria.  We will be joined by Beatrix Preusse from the World Languages office.  For additional registration information, please visit: https://www.fcps.edu/registration/dual-language-immersionprograms-registration . For general program information: https://www.fcps.edu/academics/elementary/worldlanguages-immersion-programs

Dear Families,

This week, our school community will focus on the character strength of Prudence. Prudence means you plan for the future and achieve your goals by making careful everyday choices.  Prudence is about doing the right thing at the right time for the right reasons. It's a way of thinking ahead, setting goals, making plans, and having the discipline to follow through. It’s more about using your head than your heart.

Prudence helps with managing yourself effectively. Whether aiming for a sports record, getting good grades, or saving for something special, you need to plan ahead and stay focused. Even with a plan, you must resist temptations that might distract you. Prudence gives you the wisdom to use the right strengths at the right time to achieve your goals.

To practice and encourage the character strength of prudence at home, please visit The Positivity Project’s mobile-friendly P2 for Families (available in English and Spanish), where you will watch a video together and discuss a quote and three questions. Below are links to this week’s P2 for Families lessons. Click on the grade level that best meets your child’s needs.

Pre-K–K

Grades 1–2

Grades 3–5

Grades 6–8

Grades 9–12

News from Shelley Lowinger - Parent Liaison 🖥️ Free Webinars and Events for Families

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

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

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

Upcoming Family Academy Events

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

Rising 7th Graders - Curriculum Night

Longfellow Middle School is excited to invite you to our Rising 7th Grade Curriculum Night on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. This event will provide valuable information about Longfellow Middle School and the transition to middle school. Families will have the opportunity to hear from core and elective teachers as they highlight their engaging classes. Students and staff will also be available to answer any questions.

If inclement weather occurs, the event will be rescheduled for Thursday, January 23, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.  We look forward to welcoming you to Longfellow!

Gradebook Available Until End-of-Quarter

Based on community feedback from the first quarter closure, FCPS revisited the scheduled dates for closing the Gradebook and Report Card modules in the SIS ParentVUE and StudentVUE apps. Moving forward, the app will close in alignment with the actual quarter-end dates. This change will allow students and families to view their assignments and grades until the last day of the quarter. Gradebook will be closed for the second quarter from Tuesday, January 28, 4 p.m. to Tuesday, February 4, 6 a.m.  

Access Your Child’s Grades Through SIS ParentVue - Learn how your ParentVUE account allows you to easily access grade reports and other helpful information about your child.

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes; on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring; essay editing; and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

January is National Mentoring Month!

Imagine a world where young people feel empowered, encouraged, and understood. Mentors can make that world a reality by helping young people find and follow their passions, excel in school, and thrive wherever they are.Learn more about Mentoring Month.  Research has shown that young people with at least one trusted mentor are less likely to skip school, less likely to use illegal drugs or drink alcohol, and more prepared to enter college or the workforce. Yet one in three children lack a mentor.

All it takes is one person to serve as a trusted adult to help change a young person’s path in life. Mentors provide attention, support, and enrichment, and help connect their mentees to resources that may help them on their journey in life.   The FCPS MentorWorks program matches mentors with students in schools near where they live or work. They meet for at least 30 minutes a week. Learn more about how to become a mentor for an FCPS student. Contact Martha Macdonald, mentoring specialist, for additional information at [email protected].

PTA News

PTA membership for the school year costs $20 and is about more than monthly meetings and the odd event here and there. The PTA supports schools and that means staff, teachers, students and their families in ways that go beyond what any one group would be capable of on their own. Make joining the PTA at Kent Gardens a priority. We can't be the PTA we are without parents and other caring adults like YOU!

We are still searching for a President Elect to join our PTA board.  Contact Jenny Gregory, PTA President for more information

Our Next PTA Meeting: January 17 at 9am

At this month's PTA meeting, we heard about all of the amazing things happening at KGES in the mad race to winter break! Our next general PTA meeting won't be until the new year!  There will be a Principal's Coffee prior to the meeting - join Mrs. McGuigan in the library at 8:15 a.m.

We are still searching for a President Elect to join our PTA board.  Contact Jenny Gregory, PTA President for more information!

Our next General Meeting will be January 17 at 9am in the cafeteria!

Baroody Sign Up!

We are excited to once again offer a variety of after-school enrichment programs for your children this winter! Registration is NOW OPEN and will close this Tuesday!   REGISTER HERE!

Programs run from late January until early March. All programs require a minimum number of students to run, and all programs are subject to change. After-school enrichment programs are a great way to meet new friends and try new things. We hope many of our students take advantage of these great opportunities!

Make a Difference This Year! - Volunteer Opportunities

Bingo Night Volunteers and Lead Support!  - We are hoping to host a Bingo Night on February 7th.  Email [email protected] if you are interested! 

Teacher and Staff Love Wednesdays  The KGES Wellness Committee has shared that teachers and staff LOVE when there is coffee/tea available for them in the lounge...and they REALLY love treats! Help us shower our teachers and staff with love every Wednesday this year by bringing in coffee/tea, snacks, bags of mini candies, or whatever goodies you think might help sweeten their day.  You can also help stack the staff lounge with paper plates/cups/napkins...etc. Please choose a slot to volunteer and drop off in the Staff Lounge by 8am on Wednesdays to show some love and support for our fabulous teachers and staff.

KGES Food Bus Food Rescue Program Volunteers Needed Do you have a half-hour to spare on Friday afternoons to deliver food to SHARE of McLean Food Pantry at McLean Baptist Church? Interested in getting involved in this program? Please sign up HERE and/or email [email protected] or [email protected] with questions. Service hours available for middle/high school students! Thank you for your ongoing support. We could not do this amazing program without you!

Chess Club Registration is Open!

Want to have fun and learn new strategic skills? Join Chess Club! Any Kent Gardens student in 2nd through 6th grade may sign up. Chess Club will meet on Wednesdays from 3:45pm to 5:15pm in the cafeteria at Kent Gardens Elementary.  The Spring session will start February 5th, and end May 28th. Registration deadline is Friday, January 31st, or until the class is full. Cost for the season is $185. 

Register here! https://kentgardenspta.com/product/chess-club/

If you need a password reset, please email [email protected]

1717 Melbourne Drive, McLean, VA 22101 |  Phone: 703.394.5600  

 Attendance: 703.394.5656 or [email protected]

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

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

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

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

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

 Administration Notes

Dear Parents, 

We look forward to welcoming all of our students back in the new year on January 6 (weather dependent) ~ refreshed and ready for new learning in January. 

Students will be taking mid year assessments in January.  These will include the iReady in both math and reading for grades 3 - 6.  Students in grades 1 and 2 will take the math iReady and the teachers in K-3 will give the Virginia Language and Literacy Assessments.  Parents will be notified if additional supports will be needed based on the outcomes. Parents please ensure that your child(ren) have headphones - these are essential for the iReady assessments. Below is the schedule:

• January 8 - Grade 4 Math
• January 9 - Grade 5 Math
• January 14 - Grade 2 Math and Grade 3 & 4 Reading
• January 15 - Grade 1 Math and Grade 6 Reading
• January 16 - Grade 5 Reading
• January 23 - Grade 6 Math
• February 4 - Grade 3 Math

We have a great deal taking place in January. Note the Immersion Information Session on the 15th in addition to Curriculum Night at Longfellow.  We have band and strings concerts as well as Heritage Night at the end of the month.  Also buy your yearbook now - see the link below! 

Note the weather forecast and the options that you have to follow FCPS weather decisions in the blurb above. 

See you in 2025! 

Warmly,

Holly McGuigan       Tia Hawkins                Sarah Talley

Principal                   Assistant Principal      Assistant Principal

Plan Forward - Dates to Mark on Your Calendar

December 23 - January 3 - Holiday Break - No School

January 6:  Students Return to School

January 15:  Immersion Information Meeting 5:45 p.m. 

January 15:  Curriculum Night - Longfellow MS (Rising 7th Graders)

January 16:  Band Concert 5:30 p.m.

January 25: Heritage Night 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

January 27:  Strings Concert:  5:30PM 4th Grade, 6:15PM 5th & 6th Grades

2024-25 FCPS School Calendar

We had over 150 submissions for the yearbook cover.  The entries were simply amazing!  We would love to formally recognize ALL students as their work was such a tribute to their creativity!  Congratulations to these students and once again a HUGE shoutout to all who put forth a submission! 

We have officially opened the window to purchase a yearbook.  We have included the QR code above and the link is here.  Use code 21772. We will close the purchase window April 1, 2025.  Buy now to ensure you will have a yearbook for your child(ren)! 

Heritage Night 1/25 

HERITAGE NIGHT has been adjusted and is now on 1/25. After receiving a great deal of feedback and listening to our community, the PTA decided to move Heritage Night to SATURDAY, JANUARY 25TH (original date this Saturday, December 7th).

We recognize this time of year is busy for many of our families. In the hustle and bustle, we have found it's hard to give this much loved event the proper showcase. By moving it to January, we hope to increase the participation in this event.

If you had previously signed up, we still look forward to your participation! We will be reaching out to confirm your interest. Please also help spread the word so we can fill our food hall and interactive displays. You can sign up for the event - this sign up will be open until 1/7/2025.  HERE!

We are proud of the rich diversity found within our families and community of Kent Gardens. We look forward to celebrating with everyone after the New Year!

If you have any questions, please contact [email protected].This annual KGES tradition is a wonderful way to experience all the great cultures that make up our school community! There's a parade, activities, music - and the incredibly popular World Cafe set up in the Kent Gardens cafeteria! Kids can also visit all the countries and get their "passport books" stamped. It's one of our most loved events at KGES!

Volunteers (high school and middle school welcome) are needed to make this event a success. Sign up here!

Immersion Information Night

FCPS offers DLI programs in French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. Online lottery application begins on January 13 (8:30 a.m.) for rising kindergarten and first graders dependent upon the school. A SIS account is required to complete the application. If a student is not currently enrolled in FCPS, registration at the base school is required. Please contact Annie Joseph, [email protected] if you need a create an account and live in our boundary. FCPS does not provide transportation for students who live outside the attendance area of the DLI school. A one-time fee of $100 must be paid upon acceptance of an out-of-boundary placement (see Notice 5922).   

Program Sites and Informational Meetings - The dates for various schools are in this link.  These schools offer county-wide DLI program enrollment for the 2025-2026 school year. Parents are encouraged to attend one of the informational meetings. Meetings will be held at the elementary school listed except for the virtual event.

Kent Gardens will have the immersion program interest session on January 15 at 5:45 p.m. in the cafeteria.  We will be joined by Beatrix Preusse from the World Languages office.  For additional registration information, please visit: https://www.fcps.edu/registration/dual-language-immersionprograms-registration . For general program information: https://www.fcps.edu/academics/elementary/worldlanguages-immersion-programs

Dear Families,

The first week we return (Jan 6), our school community will focus on the character strength of Optimism. Optimism means that you expect the best from the future and work to achieve it.  Optimistic people have hope and confidence about the future. They believe good things will come and stay positive even when faced with challenges. They turn obstacles into steps toward their goals.

Optimism isn't just seeing the world through rose-colored glasses. It's about focusing on the good in any situation, staying open to opportunities, and managing emotions. Optimistic people make great leaders and can inspire others with their positive outlook and ability to find meaning in difficult times.

To practice and encourage the character strength of optimism at home, please visit The Positivity Project’s mobile-friendly P2 for Families (available in English and Spanish), where you will watch a video together and discuss a quote and three questions. Below are links to this week’s P2 for Families lessons. Click on the grade level that best meets your child’s needs.

Pre-K–K

Grades 1–2

Grades 3–5

Grades 6–8

Grades 9–12

News from Shelley Lowinger - Parent Liaison

Upcoming Free January Webinars and Events for Families

The Family Resource Center (FRC) will host webinars for families on:

• Overcoming School Refusal and Resistance
• Virtual Meeting for Siblings of Children with Special Needs

Food Assistance and Resource Guide - Food insecurity impacts more than 96,000 Fairfax County residents.  There are many resources available to support those who need food assistance.   You can learn about the many resources available to support those who need food assistance on Fairfax County’s website or view the county’s Human Services Resource Guide.  Common Help Virginia is an available resource to help families navigate and apply for health care, heating & cooling, child care and food assistance.

Coats for Kids - We have additional coats available at KGES for anyone who needs one.  Please contact me at [email protected] and a coat will be sent home with your child when we return back to school

Rising 7th Graders - Curriculum Night

Longfellow Middle School is excited to invite you to our Rising 7th Grade Curriculum Night on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. This event will provide valuable information about Longfellow Middle School and the transition to middle school. Families will have the opportunity to hear from core and elective teachers as they highlight their engaging classes. Students and staff will also be available to answer any questions.

If inclement weather occurs, the event will be rescheduled for Thursday, January 23, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.  We look forward to welcoming you to Longfellow!

PTA News

PTA membership for the school year costs $20 and is about more than monthly meetings and the odd event here and there. The PTA supports schools and that means staff, teachers, students and their families in ways that go beyond what any one group would be capable of on their own. Make joining the PTA at Kent Gardens a priority. We can't be the PTA we are without parents and other caring adults like YOU!

We are still searching for a President Elect to join our PTA board.  Contact Jenny Gregory, PTA President for more information

Our Next PTA Meeting: January 17 at 9am

At this month's PTA meeting, we heard about all of the amazing things happening at KGES in the mad race to winter break! Our next general PTA meeting won't be until the new year!

We are still searching for a President Elect to join our PTA board.  Contact Jenny Gregory, PTA President for more information!

Our next General Meeting will be January 17 at 9am in the cafeteria!

Cookie Exchange - :)

We simply LOVED the cookie exchange - always the best and simply yummy! 

Thanks again to the volunteers and to the PTA for coordinating!  

A wonderful way to start the week!  Thanks again!

Make a Difference This Year! - Volunteer Opportunities

Teacher and Staff Love Wednesdays  The KGES Wellness Committee has shared that teachers and staff LOVE when there is coffee/tea available for them in the lounge...and they REALLY love treats! Help us shower our teachers and staff with love every Wednesday this year by bringing in coffee/tea, snacks, bags of mini candies, or whatever goodies you think might help sweeten their day.  You can also help stack the staff lounge with paper plates/cups/napkins...etc. Please choose a slot to volunteer and drop off in the Staff Lounge by 8am on Wednesdays to show some love and support for our fabulous teachers and staff.

KGES Food Bus Food Rescue Program Volunteers Needed Do you have a half-hour to spare on Friday afternoons to deliver food to SHARE of McLean Food Pantry at McLean Baptist Church? Interested in getting involved in this program? Please sign up HERE and/or email [email protected] or [email protected] with questions. Service hours available for middle/high school students! Thank you for your ongoing support. We could not do this amazing program without you!

1717 Melbourne Drive, McLean, VA 22101 |  Phone: 703.394.5600  

 Attendance: 703.394.5656 or [email protected]

Web | Twitter

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

Spirit Week PJ Day!

Hope all are enjoying the winter break!  We had a great time with all of the parent support!  PJ's was our culminating day! 

 Administration Notes

Dear Parents, 

We hope that all are enjoying the holiday break and would like to take a moment to thank you for your ongoing support and partnership throughout the year. This is a special time to create lasting memories with your family and friends, and we hope you enjoy every moment of it.

We encourage you to cherish this well-deserved break with your children, filled with joy, laughter, and togetherness. May your holidays be safe, relaxing, and full of love.

We look forward to welcoming all of our students back in the new year on January 6 ~ refreshed and ready for new learning in January. We have a great deal taking place in January. Note the Immersion Information Session on the 15th in addition to Curriculum Night at Longfellow.  We have band and strings concerts as well as Heritage Night at the end of the month.  Also buy your yearbook now - see the link below! 

Warm wishes for a happy holiday season and a fantastic New Year -  see you in 2025!  Cheers to a great break!

Warmly,

Holly McGuigan       Tia Hawkins                Sarah Talley

Principal                   Assistant Principal      Assistant Principal

Plan Forward - Dates to Mark on Your Calendar

December 23 - January 3 - Holiday Break - No School

January 6:  Students Return to School

January 15:  Immersion Information Meeting 5:45 p.m. 

January 15:  Curriculum Night - Longfellow MS (Rising 7th Graders)

January 16:  Band Concert 5:30 p.m.

January 25: Heritage Night 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

January 27:  Strings Concert:  5:30PM 4th Grade, 6:15PM 5th & 6th Grades

2024-25 FCPS School Calendar

We had over 150 submissions for the yearbook cover.  The entries were simply amazing!  We would love to formally recognize ALL students as their work was such a tribute to their creativity!  Congratulations to these students and once again a HUGE shoutout to all who put forth a submission! 

We have officially opened the window to purchase a yearbook.  We have included the QR code above and the link is here.  Use code 21772. We will close the purchase window April 1, 2025.  Buy now to ensure you will have a yearbook for your child(ren)! 

Winter White Out and Sing a Long! Heritage Night 1/25 

HERITAGE NIGHT has been adjusted and is now on 1/25. After receiving a great deal of feedback and listening to our community, the PTA decided to move Heritage Night to SATURDAY, JANUARY 25TH (original date this Saturday, December 7th).

We recognize this time of year is busy for many of our families. In the hustle and bustle, we have found it's hard to give this much loved event the proper showcase. By moving it to January, we hope to increase the participation in this event.

If you had previously signed up, we still look forward to your participation! We will be reaching out to confirm your interest. Please also help spread the word so we can fill our food hall and interactive displays. You can sign up for the event on 1/25 HERE!

We are proud of the rich diversity found within our families and community of Kent Gardens. We look forward to celebrating with everyone after the New Year!

If you have any questions, please contact [email protected].This annual KGES tradition is a wonderful way to experience all the great cultures that make up our school community! There's a parade, activities, music - and the incredibly popular World Cafe set up in the Kent Gardens cafeteria! Kids can also visit all the countries and get their "passport books" stamped. It's one of our most loved events at KGES!

Volunteers (high school and middle school welcome) are needed to make this event a success. Sign up here!

Immersion Information Night

FCPS offers DLI programs in French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. Online lottery application begins on January 13 (8:30 a.m.) for rising kindergarten and first graders dependent upon the school. A SIS account is required to complete the application. If a student is not currently enrolled in FCPS, registration at the base school is required. Please contact Annie Joseph, [email protected] if you need a create an account and live in our boundary. FCPS does not provide transportation for students who live outside the attendance area of the DLI school. A one-time fee of $100 must be paid upon acceptance of an out-of-boundary placement (see Notice 5922).   

Program Sites and Informational Meetings - The dates for various schools are in this link.  These schools offer county-wide DLI program enrollment for the 2025-2026 school year. Parents are encouraged to attend one of the informational meetings. Meetings will be held at the elementary school listed except for the virtual event.

Kent Gardens will have the immersion program interest session on January 15 at 5:45 p.m. in the cafeteria.  We will be joined by Beatrix Preusse from the World Languages office.  For additional registration information, please visit: https://www.fcps.edu/registration/dual-language-immersionprograms-registration . For general program information: https://www.fcps.edu/academics/elementary/worldlanguages-immersion-programs

Dear Families,

The first week we return (Jan 6), our school community will focus on the character strength of Optimism. Optimism means that you expect the best from the future and work to achieve it.  Optimistic people have hope and confidence about the future. They believe good things will come and stay positive even when faced with challenges. They turn obstacles into steps toward their goals.

Optimism isn't just seeing the world through rose-colored glasses. It's about focusing on the good in any situation, staying open to opportunities, and managing emotions. Optimistic people make great leaders and can inspire others with their positive outlook and ability to find meaning in difficult times.

To practice and encourage the character strength of optimism at home, please visit The Positivity Project’s mobile-friendly P2 for Families (available in English and Spanish), where you will watch a video together and discuss a quote and three questions. Below are links to this week’s P2 for Families lessons. Click on the grade level that best meets your child’s needs.

Pre-K–K

Grades 1–2

Grades 3–5

Grades 6–8

Grades 9–12

Parents and PE!

We thoroughly enjoyed having our parents join the students for PE.  They stretched and moved!  It was great fun!  More pics below! 

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

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

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

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

News from Shelley Lowinger - Parent Liaison

FCPS has put together a list of Snow Day and Winter Break Activities for all ages.  A complete list can be found here.    Other ideas for free family winter activities include:

•  visit our local Fairfax County public parks and nature centers such as Huntley Meadows in Alexandria.
• participate in the Fairfax County Public Library Winter Reading Program
• take a hike – all Virginia State Parks such as Mason Neck State Park celebrate the new year with free park entry and special programs on January 1st.
• the Smithsonian Museum and the National Zoo are free (four locations required free timed tickets or passes) and open every day except December 25th.
• the US Botanical Garden is free and has an annual holiday exhibit.

More Pics!

Going on a vaca? PE anyone?  Building new creations in STEAM?  Lots of fun and participation - such a wonderful week!

Rising 7th Graders - Curriculum Night

Longfellow Middle School is excited to invite you to our Rising 7th Grade Curriculum Night on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. This event will provide valuable information about Longfellow Middle School and the transition to middle school. Families will have the opportunity to hear from core and elective teachers as they highlight their engaging classes. Students and staff will also be available to answer any questions.

If inclement weather occurs, the event will be rescheduled for Thursday, January 23, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.  We look forward to welcoming you to Longfellow!

⛄School’s Closed, Learning Can Continue! 

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

📚 Bundle Up With Books Over Break

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

PTA News

PTA membership for the school year costs $20 and is about more than monthly meetings and the odd event here and there. The PTA supports schools and that means staff, teachers, students and their families in ways that go beyond what any one group would be capable of on their own. Make joining the PTA at Kent Gardens a priority. We can't be the PTA we are without parents and other caring adults like YOU!

We are still searching for a President Elect to join our PTA board.  Contact Jenny Gregory, PTA President for more information

Our Next PTA Meeting: January 17 at 9am

At this month's PTA meeting, we heard about all of the amazing things happening at KGES in the mad race to winter break! Our next general PTA meeting won't be until the new year!

We are still searching for a President Elect to join our PTA board.  Contact Jenny Gregory, PTA President for more information!

Our next General Meeting will be January 17 at 9am in the cafeteria!

Cookie Exchange - :)

We simply LOVED the cookie exchange - always the best and simply yummy! 

Thanks again to the volunteers and to the PTA for coordinating!  

A wonderful way to start the week!  Thanks again!

Make a Difference This Year! - Volunteer Opportunities

Teacher and Staff Love Wednesdays  The KGES Wellness Committee has shared that teachers and staff LOVE when there is coffee/tea available for them in the lounge...and they REALLY love treats! Help us shower our teachers and staff with love every Wednesday this year by bringing in coffee/tea, snacks, bags of mini candies, or whatever goodies you think might help sweeten their day.  You can also help stack the staff lounge with paper plates/cups/napkins...etc. Please choose a slot to volunteer and drop off in the Staff Lounge by 8am on Wednesdays to show some love and support for our fabulous teachers and staff.

KGES Food Bus Food Rescue Program Volunteers Needed Do you have a half-hour to spare on Friday afternoons to deliver food to SHARE of McLean Food Pantry at McLean Baptist Church? Interested in getting involved in this program? Please sign up HERE and/or email [email protected] or [email protected] with questions. Service hours available for middle/high school students! Thank you for your ongoing support. We could not do this amazing program without you!

1717 Melbourne Drive, McLean, VA 22101 |  Phone: 703.394.5600  

 Attendance: 703.394.5656 or [email protected]

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Kent Gardens Yearbook Updates

We had over 150 submissions for the yearbook cover.  The entries were simply amazing!  We would love to formally recognize ALL students as their work was such a tribute to their creativity!  

The front cover is the picture above and the pictures below will be on the back cover of the yearbook.  Note that we have have at least one submission chosen for each grade level.  Congratulations to these students and once again a HUGE shoutout to all who put forth a submission! 

We have officially opened the window to purchase a yearbook.  We have included the QR code below and the link is here.  Use code 21772. We will close the purchase window April 1, 2025.  Buy now to ensure you will have a yearbook for your child(ren)! 

Yearbook Sales

The deadline for book sales is 4/1/25, and the book is selling for $20. Please direct parents to www.yearbookordercenter.com. Use school code 21772

1717 Melbourne Drive, McLean, VA 22101 |  Phone: 703.394.5600  

 Attendance: 703.394.5656 or [email protected]

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

Spirit Week!

We had a great week - so much participation!  We wore hats, read with our stuffies, wore a favorite sweater and spread some cheer and kindness- we donated over 300 cans to SHARE!  Thanks for your generosity! #kgpride

Administration Notes

Dear Parents, 

Winter break is a time for students to rest, enjoy family time, and reenergize for the new year. It’s also an opportunity to keep their reading skills sharp. We encourage you to spend time reading with your child during the break. This can include reading together, listening to your child read aloud, or even taking turns reading. Every little bit helps to maintain their progress and foster a love of reading.

Thank you for partnering with us to support your child’s education. We wish you a joyful holiday season filled with peace and happiness. We look forward to welcoming students back to school on January 6.

Last week, we began our Ten Days Before Winter Break Spirit Fun!  As shown by the pictures, we had great participation.  This week we will continue our countdown. Note the schedule below and we wear plaid on Monday! 

Thanks as always for your support!  

Warmly,

Holly McGuigan       Tia Hawkins                Sarah Talley

Principal                   Assistant Principal      Assistant Principal

Plan Forward - Dates to Mark on Your Calendar

December 16 - 20:  Ten Days before Winter Break - Spirit Fun - continued!

• December 16 - Mad for Plaid - wear as much plaid as you can!
• December 17 - Vacation is On - wear your favor vacation clothes!
• December 18 - Highlight the Holidays - Wear attire for a fav holiday!
• December 19 - Winter White Out - Bring on the white and snow!
• December 20 - Jammin' in our Jammies - Wear our PJ's!  

December 16:  Staff Cookie Exchange - More Info to come! 

December 20:  Homeroom Class Holiday Celebrations

December 23 - January 3 - Holiday Break - No School

January 6:  Students Return to School

January 15:  Immersion Information Meeting 5:45 p.m. 

January 15:  Curriculum Night - Longfellow MS (Rising 7th Graders)

January 16:  Band Concert 5:30 p.m.

January 25: Heritage Night 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

January 27:  Strings Concert:  5:30PM 4th Grade, 6:15PM 5th & 6th Grades

2024-25 FCPS School Calendar

Heritage Night 1/25 

HERITAGE NIGHT has been adjusted and is now on 1/25. After receiving a great deal of feedback and listening to our community, the PTA decided to move Heritage Night to SATURDAY, JANUARY 25TH (original date this Saturday, December 7th).

We recognize this time of year is busy for many of our families. In the hustle and bustle, we have found it's hard to give this much loved event the proper showcase. By moving it to January, we hope to increase the participation in this event.

If you had previously signed up, we still look forward to your participation! We will be reaching out to confirm your interest. Please also help spread the word so we can fill our food hall and interactive displays. You can sign up for the event on 1/25 HERE!

We are proud of the rich diversity found within our families and community of Kent Gardens. We look forward to celebrating with everyone after the New Year!

If you have any questions, please contact [email protected].This annual KGES tradition is a wonderful way to experience all the great cultures that make up our school community! There's a parade, activities, music - and the incredibly popular World Cafe set up in the Kent Gardens cafeteria! Kids can also visit all the countries and get their "passport books" stamped. It's one of our most loved events at KGES!

Volunteers (high school and middle school welcome) are needed to make this event a success. Sign up here!

Immersion Information Night

FCPS offers DLI programs in French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. Online lottery application begins on January 13 (8:30 a.m.) for rising kindergarten and first graders dependent upon the school. A SIS account is required to complete the application. If a student is not currently enrolled in FCPS, registration at the base school is required. Please contact Annie Joseph, [email protected] if you need a create an account and live in our boundary. FCPS does not provide transportation for students who live outside the attendance area of the DLI school. A one-time fee of $100 must be paid upon acceptance of an out-of-boundary placement (see Notice 5922).   

Program Sites and Informational Meetings - The dates for various schools are in this link.  These schools offer county-wide DLI program enrollment for the 2025-2026 school year. Parents are encouraged to attend one of the informational meetings. Meetings will be held at the elementary school listed except for the virtual event.

Kent Gardens will have the immersion program interest session on January 15 at 5:45 p.m. in the cafeteria.  We will be joined by Beatrix Preusse from the World Languages office.  For additional registration information, please visit: https://www.fcps.edu/registration/dual-language-immersionprograms-registration . For general program information: https://www.fcps.edu/academics/elementary/worldlanguages-immersion-programs

Dear Families,

This week, our school will focus on the character strength of Self-Control. Self-control means having the ability to control your emotions and behaviors. You think before you act.Having self-control helps people stay calm during tough times and avoid impulsive actions. It doesn’t mean you don’t have thoughts or feelings; it means you can manage them.

When working or gathering in groups, self-control is shown through “self-monitoring.” This means being honest about what works and what doesn’t. Group members adjust their roles to help the group succeed.

To practice and encourage the character strength of self-control at home, please visit The Positivity Project’s mobile-friendly P2 for Families (available in English and Spanish), where you will watch a video together and discuss a quote and three questions. Below are links to this week’s P2 for Families lessons. Click on the grade level that best meets your child’s needs.

Pre-K–K

Grades 1–2

Grades 3–5

Grades 6–8

Grades 9–12

More Spirit Fun! News from Shelley Lowinger - Parent Liaison

Winter Break is fast approaching!  Here is a list of resources for students and families if you need assistance while schools are closed for winter break.  These resources include information on academic help, mental health support, and county resources related to food, clothing, housing, and other needs.  The Fairfax County Park Authority has rounded up its seasonal fun with several exciting holiday happenings.  See this list of events across the county here.

The Fairfax County Coordinated Services connects residents to county and community-based services that promote self-sufficiency and enhance well-being. Call (703) 222-0880 and you will be connected with someone who can assess family needs and link them to assistance throughout the year. 

The Human Services Resource Guide is a searchable database that contains information on thousands of nonprofit and government services available to Fairfax County residents.  Anyone with an Internet connection has 24/7 access to the Human Services Resource Guide, including from mobile devices.

Getting to Know FCPS:  A Family Orientation is an interactive seminar providing information about the school system, the importance of family engagement in student achievement and other important information as families acclimate to FCPS.  This orientation includes a discussion that is helpful for families who are acculturating to the United States. This presentation will be held on December 19 at 6:00 p.m.   Registration details can be found here.  

Fairfax County Park Authority - Winter class registration is going on now.  Check out class offerings in the Parktakes catalog and find registration information here.

Simply Amazing Chorus Concert!

We thoroughly enjoyed the chorus concert - thanks to Ms. Paik and Ms. Lee.  The students were well rehearsed and performed so well! 

Rising 7th Graders - Curriculum Night

Longfellow Middle School is excited to invite you to our Rising 7th Grade Curriculum Night on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. This event will provide valuable information about Longfellow Middle School and the transition to middle school. Families will have the opportunity to hear from core and elective teachers as they highlight their engaging classes. Students and staff will also be available to answer any questions.

If inclement weather occurs, the event will be rescheduled for Thursday, January 23, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.  We look forward to welcoming you to Longfellow!

⛄Student and Family Resources

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

School’s Closed, Learning Can Continue! 

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

📚 Bundle Up With Books Over Break

Fairfax County Public Library’s (FCPL) winter reading adventure has begun and will continue through Friday, January 31, 2025. Visit your local FCPL library branch or visit their website to register and get a sneak peek at the prizes being offered.

Check out their Winter Reading Events webpage to learn about laser tag, movie nights, crafting sessions, Noon-Year Eve celebrations, and book discussions.

⛄ Get Outdoors for Winter Fun!

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

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

PTA News

PTA membership for the school year costs $20 and is about more than monthly meetings and the odd event here and there. The PTA supports schools and that means staff, teachers, students and their families in ways that go beyond what any one group would be capable of on their own. Make joining the PTA at Kent Gardens a priority. We can't be the PTA we are without parents and other caring adults like YOU!

We are still searching for a President Elect to join our PTA board.  Contact Jenny Gregory, PTA President for more information

Our Next PTA Meeting: January 17 at 9am

At this month's PTA meeting, we heard about all of the amazing things happening at KGES in the mad race to winter break! Our next general PTA meeting won't be until the new year!

We are still searching for a President Elect to join our PTA board.  Contact Jenny Gregory, PTA President for more information!

Our next General Meeting will be January 17 at 9am in the cafeteria!

Cookie Exchange - We Need Your Help!

We need your help to make a FANTASTIC Cookie Exchange happen for the hard-working staff at Kent Gardens on Monday, December 16, 2024, 8 AM to 3:30 PM. The creativity in the KGES community is outstanding! We have treated our teachers and staff to Harry Potter themed cookies, gingerbread-dressed cookies, and delectable family recipes that have been handed down over the years. We are so excited to treat our staff to the most creative and tasty Staff Cookie Exchange yet!!!!  Of course we need cookies, but we also need volunteers to collect donations at kiss and ride, to help keep the staff lounge tidy, the tables laden with delicious treats, and carafes flowing with hot chocolate!

Click here to sign up

Make a Difference This Year! - Volunteer Opportunities

12/16 Staff Cookie Exchange Bring in fav cookies to share with teachers and staff members as they ready for the upcoming holiday! Sign up here!

12/20 Class Holiday Celebrations - Your room parent will be reaching out to coordinate!

Teacher and Staff Love Wednesdays  The KGES Wellness Committee has shared that teachers and staff LOVE when there is coffee/tea available for them in the lounge...and they REALLY love treats! Help us shower our teachers and staff with love every Wednesday this year by bringing in coffee/tea, snacks, bags of mini candies, or whatever goodies you think might help sweeten their day.  You can also help stack the staff lounge with paper plates/cups/napkins...etc. Please choose a slot to volunteer and drop off in the Staff Lounge by 8am on Wednesdays to show some love and support for our fabulous teachers and staff.

KGES Food Bus Food Rescue Program Volunteers Needed Do you have a half-hour to spare on Friday afternoons to deliver food to SHARE of McLean Food Pantry at McLean Baptist Church? Interested in getting involved in this program? Please sign up HERE and/or email [email protected] or [email protected] with questions. Service hours available for middle/high school students! Thank you for your ongoing support. We could not do this amazing program without you!

1717 Melbourne Drive, McLean, VA 22101 |  Phone: 703.394.5600  

 Attendance: 703.394.5656 or [email protected]

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