FCPS

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Message from Mrs. Castillo

Thank you to all our parents, PTA, and especially the Ko family for the delicious staff luncheon to celebrate Lunar New Year on Friday!  It was a very special treat.  It was also really fun to see students and staff get into the "Matching Day" theme!  

We are officially in the 3rd quarter of the 2024 - 2025 school year.  Parents can log in and view Quarter 2 Progress Reports on SIS ParentVue beginning Tuesday.  Remember to download the app to your phone if you haven't already - very accessible and user-friendly.   

Thanks for all your support - looking forward to a great week!  

Parent Reminders

• Progress Reports will be available on ParentVue on February 4
• All visitors must bring and scan a government-issued photo ID each time they visit school.  Arrive early to events to ensure time for parking and check in.
• Check out the breakfast and lunch menu.
• Have your child log into Clever from Lemon Road Student Links to access Lexia and ST Math from home to maintain academic progress. 

Specials Feature - Outdoor Ed LRES PTA Updates

We would like to thank the Ko Family for asking the PTA to partner with them and providing our stellar staff with an incredible Lunar New Year Lunch this Friday. It was incredibly generous and very much appreciated by all!

Seeing the staff’s reaction to the lunch reminded me just how much it means to our LRES team to hear from families about the positive impact their work has - so please join me in taking some time over the next few weeks to show our staff some love; whether with an email, a card, some caffeine or even just a big smile - let’s spread some love and positivity this February!

• Our planning committees for the Staff Basketball Game and Spring Fair are underway - we would love to add some new faces and ideas so email us at [email protected] if you are interested in helping!
• Join us (virtually) on Feb 12th to welcome back Mary Smith, local Parenting Coach, talking about how to help our children manage anxiety and build resilience. The meeting starts at 7pm and is open to all!

Girls on the Run

For girls in grades 3 - 6, Girls on the Run (GOTR) is coming back to Lemon Road! GOTR has fun, evidence-based programs that inspire girls in 3rd-8th grade to build their confidence, kindness, and decision-making skills. Dynamic lessons instill valuable life skills including the important connection between physical and emotional health. Starting the week of March 3rd, the team will meet every Tuesday and Thursday after school.  The program culminates in a celebratory 5K at the end of the season! The standard program fee is $210 and includes lessons/practices, a t-shirt, GOTR giveaway, entry into the 5K, a 5K medal, and more. Financial assistance is available for anyone who needs it.

Registration for the Spring 2025 program is open February 3-23, and the season will run from the week of March 3 through May 19. For more information and to register please go to www.gotrnova.org. 

Kindergarten Registration and Planning for 2025 - 2026

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

1. Determine eligibility. 
2. Identify your local school. 
3. Gather documents. 
4. Fill out forms. 
5. Schedule an appointment.

After the appointment at the school (the student and one guardian must be present), the student will be ready for Kindergarten Orientation hosted at Lemon Road the morning of April 1!  Read more about the registration process. For additional information, please contact [name], our school registrar. 💻 Try Online Registration

Online registration for the 2025-26 school year is open. Parents/caregivers may register their children online for kindergarten through 12th grade. Learn how to begin the online registration process. Intention forms will be shared for current Lemon Road families really soon to help us plan for our staffing meetings.  

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

FCPS News ICYMI

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• FY 2026 Proposed Budget
• Student-Driven Lunch Menus
• Inclusion Awards Nominations

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today. 

Upcoming Important Dates

• Monday, February 3: A Week
• Tuesday, February 4: Progress Reports on Parent Vue; 5th Grade Chorus (8:25); 6th Grade Eco-Defense Squad (12:30)
• Wednesday, February 5: 4th Grade Eco-Defense Squad (11:30); SCA Officer Meeting (2:15)
• Thursday, February 6: PTA Board Meeting; 1st Grade Family Engagement Event (12:00); 6th Grade Chorus (2:15)
• Friday, February 7:  4th Grade Family Engagement (8:45); Dental Presentations (K & 3)
• Monday, February 10: B Week
• Tuesday, February 11: Kilmer Middle School Course Selection Class Visits
• Wednesday, February 12: 4th Grade Eco-Defense Squad (12:30); PTA General Meeting (virtual)
• Thursday, February 13: Candid Photos with Photographer
• Friday, February 14: ❤️Valentine’s Day; 6th Grade Volleyball Tournament (8:20-9:55); 1st Grade Pancake Celebration (8:45); 100th Day Celebration in 1st (12:00); 5th Grade Eco-Defense Squad (12:15)
• Monday, February 17: NO SCHOOL - Presidents Day; A Week
• Thursday, February 20:  Portrait of a Graduate Night
• Monday, February 24:  B Week; 3-Hour Early Release
• Friday, March 21: Staff Basketball Game at Marshall HS
• Tuesday, April 1:  Teacher Workday; Kindergarten Orientation

FCPS 2024-2025 School Year Calendar

7230 Idylwood Road, Falls Church, VA 22043 | Main Phone: 703-714-6400

Attendance: 703-714-6464 or email | Health Rm.: 703-714-6410 | Web | Instagram 

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Message from Mrs. Castillo

Hard to believe that Tuesday marks the end of the 2nd quarter of the 2024-2025 school year!  Our students have learned so much in the first half of the year and we can’t wait to see all that our lions will accomplish in the second half. 

Wednesday is a student holiday/teacher workday for teachers to work on progress reports for the end of the 2nd quarter. 

We're looking forward to some warmer days next week, but please continue to send your child to school with appropriate winter clothing for outdoor recess.  For students to participate in outdoor recess and PE, please send them to school in sneakers or boots, crocs and similar footwear inhibit their ability to participate safely.  

Friday is our January Freaky Friday.  It is Matching Day - we encourage all students and staff to participate by matching one or more people with their clothes for the day.  Room parents will also connect with the teachers to be sure to celebrate January birthdays with a class treat!  

LRES Parent Reminders

• Progress Reports will be available on ParentVue on February 4
• All visitors must bring and scan a government-issued photo ID each time they visit school.  Arrive early to events to ensure time for parking and check in.
• Check out the breakfast and lunch menu.
• Have your child log into Clever from Lemon Road Student Links to access Lexia and ST Math from home to maintain academic progress. 

What's Happening in CCT Lessons? Counselor's Corner

We are celebrating our diverse Lemon Road community during the last two weeks of February through our weekly/bi-weekly grade level counseling lessons.

Please consider joining a few classes to share about your family culture.  Ideas to share include: celebrations, customs, cultural dress, cultural history, music, dance, art, games, geography, and language!  Presentations can take place in person (the library or room 125) or virtually through Zoom.  During a presentation, the school counselor will remain to support you and the class.  

Please see our sign-up HERE to share in your child’s classroom and consider coming early or staying to share with one additional group. We thank you in advance for supporting diversity at Lemon Road and look forward to learning about your wonderful culture.

Should you have any questions, please contact Erica McKinney: [email protected] or Rabia Ali: [email protected].

Thank you for your support!

Lemon Road PTA Updates

Thank you to all those who joined us for our first PTA meeting of 2025 and especially to our guest speaker Derrick Smith. The slide deck and information is available on MemberHub for all PTA members.  We also appreciate our families and staff that visited Basic Burger or &Pizza during our restaurant events.  These are small ways to help keep the PTA funded and supporting our school community.  

• Please help us with the upcoming Lunar New Year lunch for our amazing staff.  Thank you to the Ko Family for their generous donation making this lunch possible.    
• Planning committees for the annual LRES Staff Basketball Game and PTA Spring Fair are underway.  Each year we add new ideas through new members of each committee.  Please consider joining one of our planning committees to ensure both events continue to be successful!  Email us at [email protected] if you can help plan these events!

Virginia 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.

Community Boundary Review Meetings

If you have not been able to attend an FCPS Community Boundary Review meeting yet, it’s not too late! The following virtual meetings will have the same format and information available as the previous in-person meetings:

• Monday, January 27, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 
• Tuesday, January 28, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 
• Monday, February 10, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

Click one of the dates above to register and receive your unique Zoom link. Each virtual meeting will be capped at 400 participants to help provide a meaningful experience for all. Language interpretation will be available. Learn about FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review. Sign up for the School Boundary Review newsletter for updates.

Meeting Slide Presentation 

English Other languages coming soon.

Meeting Agenda

Arabic | Chinese | English | Korean | Spanish | Urdu | Vietnamese

FCPS News ICYMI

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• SOL Score Reports
• Upcoming Budget Presentation
• Science Fair Judges Needed

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today. 

Upcoming Important Events

• Monday, January 27: B Week
• Tuesday, January 28:  Kilmer MS Music Visit for 6th Grade 
• Wednesday, January 29:  Teacher Workday
• Friday, January 31: Freaky Friday: Matching Day; Staff Lunar New Year Celebration 
• Monday, February 3: A Week
• Tuesday, February 4: Progress Reports on Parent Vue; 5th Grade Chorus; 6th Grade Eco-Defense Squad
• Wednesday, February 5: 4th Grade Eco Defense Squad; SCA Officer Meeting
• Thursday, February 6: PTA Board Meeting; 1st Grade Family Engagement Event (12:00); Kindergarten & Grade 3 Dental Presentations
• Friday, February 7: Navy & Yellow LRES Spirit Day
• Thursday, February 20:  Portrait of a Graduate Night
• Friday, March 21: Staff Basketball Game at Marshall HS
• Tuesday, April 1:  Teacher Workday; Kindergarten Orientation

FCPS 2024-2025 School Year Calendar

7230 Idylwood Road, Falls Church, VA 22043 | Main Phone: 703-714-6400

Attendance: 703-714-6464 or email | Health Rm.: 703-714-6410 | Web | Instagram 

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

Message from Mrs. Castillo

It was an awesome full week back at school with our lions! Teachers and administrators took time reviewing our ROAR expectations and complimenting as we see students model their ROAR.  This week we welcomed two BYU student teachers into grade 2 with Mr. Raines and grade 5 with Ms. Hagy!  

Thank you to our PTA and all our parents that put on a delicious and generous welcome back breakfast on Friday!  Our teachers and staff had a great morning and many came back for lunch.  We appreciate your ongoing partnership! 

This week will be cold.  As a reminder, please make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat, hat, gloves, and sneakers or boots.  With the predicted weather, we will have a balance of indoor and outdoor recess.  Children will not be able to go outdoors with their class if wearing crocs or not wearing a warm coat.  We monitor the temperatures, precipitation, ground cover, as well as wind chill to make decisions about indoor versus outdoor play.  Visit Fairfax County’s website for Winter Weather/Extreme Cold safety tips. 

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

Parent Reminders:

• Support the Lemon Road PTA by stopping in Basic Burger at the Tyson's West location!  Use the code LEMON on the restaurant website for pick up, delivery, or order in person until January 22 and 20% of sales will go back to our PTA. 

• During winter months, send children to school dressed to go outdoors!  We recommend a warm coat, sneakers, hat, and gloves daily.
• All visitors must bring and scan a government-issued photo ID each time they visit school.  Arrive early to events to ensure time for parking and check in.
• Check out the breakfast and lunch menu.
• Have your child log into Clever from Lemon Road Student Links to access Lexia and ST Math from home to maintain academic progress. 

Principals' Coffee Slide Deck

On Tuesday, the Lemon Road clinical team prepared a meaningful and informative presentation about student mental health, interpreting SEL screener results, wellness supports in school, and the importance of attendance.  SEL screener results are posted in ParentVue as well as other fall testing data.  Thank you Ms. McKinney, Mrs. Argodale, Ms. D'Elia, and Mrs. Moncrieffe for this presentation!    

LRES PTA Updates

Thank you to our amazing Hospitality Team and to everyone who supported our Staff Welcome Back Breakfast on friday including Panera and Starbucks!

• Baroody after school enrichment classes registration is extended until Sunday Jan 19th for the Winter session - check out what’s available and register here! 
• Last call to support Lemon Road at the Basic Burger Restaurant Week.  Use the code "LEMON" in-person or online at the Tyson's West location until January 22 and 20% will go back to the PTA.  
• Join us for our first PTA meeting of 2025 as we meet virtually on the 22nd at 7pm. Our Guest Speaker is Lemon Road parent Derrick Smith discussing safeguarding digital technology. All are welcome! Click here for the link to join!
• Join us at &pizza on Jan 23rd for our first restaurant night of 2025 - use the code LRES when ordering to donate 25% of your order back to the PTA!
• Calling all tee ball and baseball players!  Registration closes on February 1 for Falls Church Little League. Email [email protected] if you have any questions! 

Spotlight on the LRES Library Accessing Student Information in ParentVue

Access your child’s grades, test results, and share upcoming absences through SIS ParentVue. Learn how your ParentVUE account allows you to easily access grade reports and other helpful information about your child.  Download the app to your phone for access at your fingertips 24/7!

Rising 7th Grade Kilmer Students Virtual Rising 7th Grade General Information Session

• Date: Wednesday, January 22, 2025
• Time: 5:00 p.m.
• Location: Live-streamed on the Kilmer M.S. website. The link will be shared closer to the event, and a recording will remain available on our website.

This virtual session will introduce Kilmer Middle School and provide an overview of curricular options for the 2025-2026 school year.

Rising 7th Grade Curriculum Night Open House

• Date: Thursday, January 23, 2025
• Time: 5:00–7:00 p.m.
• Location: Kilmer Middle School

During this in-person event, students and parents can speak with 7th grade teachers to learn more about course options, attend optional information sessions, and tour Kilmer Middle School.

FCPS News In Case You Missed It

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• Superintendent to Present Fiscal Year 2026 Proposed Budget 
• Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration
• SIS ParentVUE End of Quarter Closure

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today. 

Upcoming Important Dates

• Monday, January 20:  Holiday – MLK Day
• Tuesday, January 21:  A Week; Kilmer Music Presentation to 6th Grade; iReady Math Assessments begin
• Wednesday, January 22:  SCA Officer Meeting (2:25); PTA Board Meeting (3:15 – 4:15); PTA General Meeting (7 PM); Last Day of Burger Restaurant Week
• Thursday, January 23:  Patrol Meeting (8:25); &Pizza Restaurant Night
• Friday, January 24: Full SCA Meeting
• Monday, January 27: B Week
• Wednesday, January 29:  Teacher Workday
• Friday, January 31: Freaky Friday: Matching Day
• Friday, February 7: Navy & Yellow LRES Spirit Day
• Thursday, February 20:  Portrait of a Graduate Night
• Friday, March 21: Staff Basketball Game at Marshall HS
• Tuesday, April 1:  Teacher Workday; Kindergarten Orientation

FCPS 2024-2025 School Year Calendar

7230 Idylwood Road, Falls Church, VA 22043 | Main Phone: 703-714-6400

Attendance: 703-714-6464 or email | Health Rm.: 703-714-6410 | Web | Instagram 

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

Principals' Coffee Tomorrow

Tomorrow morning (Tuesday) at 8:15 AM in the Lemon Road library, our clinical team will speak at our Quarter 2 Principals' Coffee.  The counselor, school psychologist, and school social worker will cover Interpreting SEL Screener Results, supporting your children with their mental health needs, and the importance of regular school attendance. These are critical topics for our parents and community!  Refreshments will be served and there will be time to ask questions to school staff and get updates from our amazing PTA. 

NEW Dining for Dollars Event

Support the Lemon Road PTA by enjoying dinner or lunch from Basic Burger at the Tyson's West location!  Use the code LEMON on the restaurant website for pick up, delivery, or order in person at 1495 Cornerside Boulevard in Vienna from January 14 - January 22 and 20% of sales will go back to our PTA. 

Check out the menu for burgers, chicken sandwiches, turkey burgers, fish sandwiches, hot dogs, beyond burgers, salads, sides, and more!   When ordering online or in person at the kiosk, be sure to click add promo code and enter LEMON before finishing checkout.  

Thanks for supporting your PTA! 

7230 Idylwood Road, Falls Church, VA 22043 | Main Phone: 703-714-6400

Attendance: 703-714-6464 or email | Health Rm.: 703-714-6410 | Web | Instagram 

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

Message from Mrs. Castillo

While we all enjoyed the snow, the Lemon Road staff is looking forward to a full week of school this week!  The end of quarter 2 is just around the corner and iReady testing begins this week for students in grades 3 - 6.  Hard to believe we are almost halfway through the school year. 

Please try and join our Principals Coffee this Tuesday.  This is a great way to connect with the administrators, PTA board, and members of our clinical team.  While we have topics prepared, we always welcome questions from our parents or community.  

Parent Reminders:

• During winter months, send children to school dressed to go outdoors!  We recommend a warm coat, sneakers, hat, and gloves daily.
• All visitors must bring and scan a government-issued photo ID each time they visit school.  Arrive early to events to ensure time for parking and check in.
• Check out the breakfast and lunch menu.
• Have your child log into Clever from Lemon Road Student Links to access Lexia and ST Math from home to maintain academic progress. 

Quarter 2 Principals Coffee

This Tuesday at 8:15 AM in the library, our clinical team will speak at our Quarter 2 Principals Coffee.  The topics will be on Interpreting SEL Screener Results, supporting your children with their mental health needs, and the importance of regular school attendance. These are critical topics for our parents!  Refreshments will be served and there will be time to ask questions and get updates from our amazing PTA. 

LRES PTA Updates

Happy New Year! We hope you all had a fabulous winter break and were able to enjoy last week’s snow.

• On Jan 17th (rescheduled due to snow!) the PTA will host our annual “Welcome Back Breakfast” for all our amazing staff. Please sign up here to help with donations of food, money or (most precious of all!) your time! Thank you!
• Baroody after school enrichment classes are opening for registration until tonight for the Winter session - check out what’s available and register here! 
• Join us for our first PTA meeting of 2025 as we meet virtually on the 22nd at 7pm. Our Guest Speaker is Lemon Road parent Derrick Smith discussing safeguarding digital technology. All are welcome! Click here for the link to join!
• Join us at &pizza on Jan 23rd for our first restaurant night of 2025 - use the code LRES when ordering to donate 25% of your order back to the PTA!

• Calling all tee ball and baseball players!  Registration closes on February 1 for Falls Church Little League. Tee ball is free this season (ages 4-6) so a great chance for new players to try it! You can also sign up for a tee ball clinic in March to learn the basics! Registration for the clinics is separate from registering to play in the league, so make sure you sign up for both if you’re interested.  Assessments for players age 8 and up will be held February 15 & 22 at Meridian High School. Please email [email protected] if you have any questions! 

FCPS News ICYMI

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• National Merit Commended Scholars
• Celebrating the Best of 2024 in FCPS
• Cell Phones Off, Learning On

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

Upcoming Important Dates

• Monday, January 13:  B Week; iReady Reading (grades 3 – 6) Testing
• Tuesday, January 14: Quarter 2 Principals Coffee (Attendance & Student Mental Health 8:15); iReady Reading Testing (grades 3 – 6) 
• Wednesday, January 15: SCA Officer Meeting
• Friday, January 17: PTA Welcome Back Breakfast (7:30); Grades 2 – 5 Field Trip to the Alden (9:30 – 11:30)
• Monday, January 20:  Holiday – MLK Day
• Tuesday, January 21:  A Week
• Wednesday, January 22: PTA General Meeting (virtual)
• Thursday, January 23:  &Pizza Restaurant Night
• Friday, January 24: Full SCA Meeting

FCPS 2024-2025 School Year Calendar

7230 Idylwood Road, Falls Church, VA 22043 | Main Phone: 703-714-6400

Attendance: 703-714-6464 or email | Health Rm.: 703-714-6410 | Web | Instagram 

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

Welcome Back Lions!

We can't wait to welcome everyone back to school tomorrow after a long break!  Tomorrow is a 2-hour delay.  Doors will open at 10:05 AM.  Please do not drop your child off early as temperatures will be very cold and staff will not be outside to supervise.  

Parents of children taking the bus or walking to school, please remind children to stay off the roads while waiting for a bus and watch for ice on sidewalks or bus stops.  Buses should arrive at morning stops 2 hours later than the typical schedule.  While we hope everything is running on time, buses may be delayed.  Please be sure children have a hat, gloves, warm jacket, and proper footwear. 

Recess will be indoors tomorrow.  The playground, field, and blacktop are covered with snow.  Students may not play on school property (playground/field) before or after school without parental supervision.  Please remind older children and walkers that they must go home immediately after school. 

Students in grades 5 and 6 will not have specials tomorrow.  Fifth and sixth graders that typically bring an instrument on Fridays may leave them at home.  kindergarten - fourth grade students will have specials.  

Lunch will be served to all students at their typical time and dismissal will begin at 2:55 PM. While short, we look forward to a great day! ~ Mrs. Castillo

7230 Idylwood Road, Falls Church, VA 22043 | Main Phone: 703-714-6400

Attendance: 703-714-6464 or email | Health Rm.: 703-714-6410 | Web | Instagram 

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

Message from Mrs. Castillo

We hope that everyone is enjoying winter break!  Ms. Ulsh and I would like to take a moment to thank you for the ongoing support and partnership throughout this school year. The last week of December was filled with opportunities to give back to our staff:  hot chocolate and cookies, hosting class parties, and covering classes during our staff luncheon.  

We look forward to welcoming all of our students back in the new year on January 6 ~ refreshed and ready for new learning!  Mark your calendar for Tuesday, January 14.  Our school counselor, school psychologist, and school social worker will be speaking at the Principals Coffee about school attendance and how to support your child with their mental health.  Join us beginning at 8:15 in the library for refreshments, good conversation, and bring your questions!  

Parent Reminders

• Dress your child for the winter weather!  Classes will go outside for recess and most days. 
• All visitors must bring and scan a government-issued photo ID each time they visit school.  Arrive early to events to ensure time for parking and check in.
• Check out the breakfast and lunch menu!
• Have your child log into Clever from Lemon Road Student Links to access Lexia and ST Math from home to maintain academic progress. 

Upcoming Winter Weather

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 through emails and text messages! Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE.   

Spotlight on Art at Lemon Road PTA Updates

Thank you to everyone who supported our hot cocoa & cookies, volunteered at class parties or who covered classes for the December staff luncheon!  

• On January 8th the PTA will host our annual “Welcome Back Breakfast”. Please sign up here to help with donations of food, money or (most precious of all!) your time!  
• Baroody after school enrichment classes are opening for registration  for the Winter session - check out what’s available and register here! 

FCPS Boundary Study

The Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee held its second meeting on December 16. View key takeaways from that meeting and access the meeting agenda, slides, and other materials that committee members received.  If you did not attend an in-person Community Boundary Review Meeting, consider participating in one of the following virtual meetings:

• Friday, January 10, 2025, 6-7:30 p.m. 

• Thursday, January 16, 2025, 1-2:30 p.m. 

• Saturday, January 25, 2025, 9:30-11 a.m. 

• Monday, January 27, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

• Tuesday, January 28, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 
• Monday, February 10, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

Language interpretation will be available. 

Virtual meetings will follow the same format as in-person meetings that were recently held and the same information will be shared. Stay tuned for details on how to register. Visit FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage to learn more. Sign up for FCPS’ School Boundary Review newsletter as well.

Upcoming Important Dates

• Monday, January 6: A Week; Three Kings Day/Epiphany
• Tuesday, January 7: Orthodox Christmas; Kilmer Music Visit to 6th Grade
• Wednesday, January 8: PTA Welcome Back Breakfast; iReady Reading Testing 3-6; PTA Board Meeting; SCA Officer Meeting
• Thursday, January 9: iReady Reading Testing 3-6; AVID Presentation to future Longfellow Students
• Friday, January 10: Polo Day; Full SCA Meeting
• Monday, January 13:  B Week; iReady Math Testing begins
• Tuesday, January 14: Quarter 2 Principals Coffee: Importance of Student Attendance & Connections to Mental Health (8:15 in the Cafeteria)
• Wednesday, January 15: Rising 7th Grade Longfellow Curriculum Night

FCPS 2024-2025 School Year Calendar

7230 Idylwood Road, Falls Church, VA 22043 | Main Phone: 703-714-6400

Attendance: 703-714-6464 or email | Health Rm.: 703-714-6410 | Web | Instagram 

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

Message from Mrs. Castillo

We have one more FULL week of school for 2024.  Thank you for your partnership through all our school and PTA events this fall.  We are grateful for all our students and families.  Ms. Ulsh and I wish you a peaceful, fun, and relaxing winter break and look forward to learning and engagement in 2025.  

Parent Reminders:

• Dress your child for the weather.  Students will go outside for recess and some instruction most days. 
• All visitors must bring and scan a government-issued photo ID each time they visit school.  Arrive early to events to ensure time for parking and check in.
• Parents or loved ones who are volunteering on Friday who have already scanned their ID this school year may pre-register here to speed up the check in process Friday.  We anticipate heavy volunteer traffic Friday afternoon for class parties.  
• Check out the breakfast and lunch menu!
• Have your child log into Clever from Lemon Road Student Links and access both Lexia and ST Math from home to maintain their fall progress over winter break. 

Spotlight on Physical Education Successful Community Service Event

Thank you to all who contributed to our canned food drive and community service event!  Families may help organize and bag the donations after school on Tuesday in the library.  Families of sixth graders, this is an opportunity to earn service hours.  Email the PTA at [email protected] if you would like to help with the deliveries.

A huge thank you to the group of first grade boys who created flyers and collected donations throughout their community!  This was a huge and very successful undertaking!  The donations are being delivered to Kilmer Middle School's food pantry and SHARE of McLean to support local families.  

Eco Defense Squad Collection

Our Eco Defense Squad is collecting old fabric and blankets to be cut and sewn into blankets for a local animal shelter.  Drop off items in the lobby before winter break! 

Thank you LRES Musicians

Congratulations to our 4th, 5th, and 6th graders who performed at both the evening and daytime concerts last week.  The adult and student audiences were impressed by all you learned this fall!  Thank you to our music team:  Mrs. Carlin, Ms. Scarboro, Ms. Su, and Mr. Fogleson for their hard work and organization.  

LRES PTA Updates

Thank you to everyone who supported our Service Food Drive this year, and to the SCA, Eco-Defense Squad, staff members and students who have helped with the drive this year! Make sure to check out the PTA socials for updates next week as we deliver all the goodies you donated.

• The PTA is hosting a hot cocoa and cookies holiday treat for staff on Monday December 16th. We would love some extra helpers baking/buying cookies or other yummy treats - if you can help please email us at [email protected] or drop your treats to the lobby on Monday marked “Staff Cocoa & Cookies Treat”. Thank you!
• Class Winter Holiday Parties are Friday - please reach out to your Room Parent to ask how you can help!
• On January 8th the PTA will host our annual “Welcome Back Breakfast”. Please sign up here to help with donations of food, money or (most precious of all!) your time!  
• Baroody after school enrichment classes are opening for registration  for the Winter session - check out what’s available and register here! 

FCPS News ICYMI

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• Course Selection for Middle and High School Students
• Boundary Review Updates (All FCPS Schools Included) 

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

Upcoming Important Dates

• Monday, December 16: PTA Hot Chocolate & Cookies for Staff; Baroody Winter Enrichment Registration Open
• Tuesday, December 17: Winter Staff Luncheon
• Wednesday, December 18: Chad Lehman Visits (Region 5 Executive Principal)
• Thursday, December 19: Patrol Meeting (8:25)
• Friday, December 20:  Freaky Friday - Pajama Day; Variety Show; Class Parties
• Monday, December 23 - January 3:  WINTER BREAK
• Monday, January 6: A Week
• Wednesday, January 8: PTA Welcome Back Staff Breakfast

FCPS 2024-2025 School Year Calendar

7230 Idylwood Road, Falls Church, VA 22043 | Main Phone: 703-714-6400

Attendance: 703-714-6464 or email | Health Rm.: 703-714-6410 | Web | Instagram 

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

Message from Mrs. Castillo

December is off to a fantastic start with 5 busy days of learning last week.  Thank you for your support when the power went out unexpectedly on Wednesday.  We appreciate how quickly FCPS was able to partner with Dominion Power to get a new transformer installed Wednesday evening! 

Tomorrow is a 3-hour early release.  Most students will go home (or to SACC/FCMCC) at 11:55 tomorrow.  During these 3-hour releases, our teachers and staff engage in required professional learning.  This professional learning is paying off - we are seeing big gains in our students reading, writing, and spelling already this year.  Thank you for your support!  See pictures throughout this newsletter of students reading and writing in classrooms. 

A big shout out to our room parents.  Winter parties are coming on December 20 and we appreciate our parents stepping up to run these parties.  If you have not heard from your room parent yet, reach out to see how you can help them.  Classes will be looking for volunteers on the afternoon of Friday, December 20.  

Parent Reminders

• Dress your child for the weather.  Students will go outside for recess and some instruction most days!  
• This week we will have rehearsals and concerts for our grades 4 - 6 musicians.  Be sure students remember their instruments for their rehearsal and concerts.  Musicians wear white shirt with black bottoms for the evening concert and their polo with dark pants for the daytime concert.  
• Our Lost & Found is full!  Please stop by tomorrow morning (December 9) to claim items.  We will be bagging items for donation tomorrow afternoon. 
• All parents/guardians/visitors must bring and scan a government-issued photo ID each time they visit school.  Arrive early to events to ensure time for parking and check in.
• Prepare for Meals at School:  Check out the breakfast and lunch menu!
• Have your child log into Clever from Lemon Road Student Links and access both Lexia and ST Math from home.

Family Life Education (FLE) Preview Night

Lemon Road will be hosting a virtual Parent Preview Night, on Monday, December 9th at 7pm, to review our Family Life Education lessons. This meeting will be held on ZOOM. Direct Link: https://myfcpsk12.zoom.us/j/91302157716

Fairfax County Public Schools' Family Life Education (FLE) curriculum is taught in grades K-12. Lessons include age-appropriate instruction in:

• family living and community relationships
• abstinence education
• the value of postponing sexual activity
• the benefits of adoption as a positive choice in the event of an unwanted pregnancy
• human sexuality and human reproduction.

Instruction promotes parental involvement, fosters positive self-concepts, and provides coping mechanisms for dealing with peer pressure and the stresses related to the students' developmental stages and abilities.

Parents may remove their child(ren) from any FLE lessons at a particular grade level. Students removed from a lesson will be taught alternative, non-FLE, lessons. 

If you wish to opt your child out of any of the activities mentioned above, you must complete the appropriate forms online through the Parent Digital Consent system.

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

Full-Time AAP Service Referrals Due

Parents/guardians of students in Grades 2-7 who would like their student to be considered for Full-Time advanced academic programs may submit the AAP Full-Time Referral Form to Avery Straw, [email protected] no later than December 15, 2024. 

The window for families to submit a referral for Full-Time AAP services is the first day of school through December 15, annually.  Forms for Full-Time and part-time referrals are available on the AAP Forms Page. No late referrals for Full-Time AAP services will be accepted. 

Submitting a referral form for Full-Time AAP will initiate a process that begins at the local school and is then completed at the central office level. Our school will put together a portfolio that includes multiple data which are considered holistically. At the central office level, a committee of six trained professionals from various schools and roles will review the portfolio materials to determine eligibility for Full-Time placement.  Eligibility decisions are communicated by early April. Parents may request a copy of the portfolio that was submitted after they have been turned in for central selection by emailing Avery Straw, [email protected].

Referrals for Subject-Specific and Part-Time AAP are screened at the local school. If you miss this deadline, your student can still be screened for Subject-Specific AAP or Part-Time AAP for the remainder of the year and submit a referral for Full-Time AAP next fall. 

For more information, please visit the Advanced Academic Programs website.

LRES PTA Corner

Only two weeks until winter break! Though things are slowing down for winter we still have a few activities happening in December:

• Please consider donating to our annual Community Service Drive to support local families in need through local food bank SHARE of Mclean and the Kilmer Middle School Food Bank. Thank you for your generosity and support! You can contribute by: 
• Dropping off food donations in the lobby until December 13 
• Purchasing gift cards from our Amazon wish list  
• Volunteering to help organize or deliver the food - email us at [email protected] 
• The PTA will host a hot cocoa and cookies holiday treat for our amazing staff on Dec 16th - if you would like to help with decorations, set up, baking/buying cookies etc. please email us at [email protected]
• Room Parents are starting to plan Winter Holiday Parties for December 20th - please reach out to your Room Parent to ask how you can help!

Spotlight on Lemon Road Music Literacy Resources for Families

We believe families are key to developing literacy. The pages below have resources to help you encourage literacy at home. It also has info to help you partner with your student's teacher and school staff in supporting your student's literacy progress in reading and writing.

Literacy Resources for Families

Family Facing Curriculum

SEL Screener Results Available

Students in grades 3-12 took the SEL Screener during the month of October providing information on their SEL skills like achieving goals, understanding and managing emotions, establishing and maintaining relationships, and making responsible decisions. The screener also asks students how well their school community makes them feel valued, included, and supported.

Individual student SEL Screener results are now available to families in the Documents section of SIS ParentVUE. For families who do not have an active ParentVUE account, results will be sent via US mail.

For support in understanding your individual student’s results or for ideas on how to support them at home, please review the Family Guide or reach out to our school staff with any questions.

FCPS News ICYMI

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• Family Academy Orientation
• Literacy Resources
• Boundary Study & Bell Schedule Potential Changes

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.  

Upcoming Important Dates

• Monday, December 9: A Week; Early Release (11:55); Band/Stings Rehearsal (8:25 AM); FLE Parent Preview Night through Zoom (7 PM)
• Tuesday, December 10:  Grad 5 & 6 Chorus Rehearsal (8:25)
• Wednesday, December 11:  SCA Officer Meeting; Evening Band, Strings & Chorus Concert
• Thursday, December 12:  Daytime Band, Strings & Chorus Concert (polos required)
• Friday, December 13:  LRES Polo Day; Full SCA Meeting
• Monday, December 16: B Week; PTA Hot Chocolate & Cookies for Staff
• Tuesday, December 17: Winter Staff Luncheon
• Wednesday, December 18: 
• Thursday, December 19: Patrol Meeting (8:25)
• Friday, December 20:  Freaky Friday - Pajama Day; Variety Show (8:30 AM); Class Parties
• Monday, December 23 - January 3:  Winter Break
• Monday, January 6: A Week

FCPS 2024-2025 School Year Calendar

7230 Idylwood Road, Falls Church, VA 22043 | Main Phone: 703-714-6400

Attendance: 703-714-6464 or email | Health Rm.: 703-714-6410 | Web | Instagram 

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LRES Parent Reminders

- The Lemon Road Lost & Found is FULL.  Please stop by or ask your child to stop by the Lost & Found and claim any personal items.  All unlabeled items will be bagged for donation on Monday, December 9. 

- Monday, December 9 is the next Early Release Monday for professional development for our teachers.  Please be sure you have let us know how your child will go home and if they will require childcare by clicking this link 

- Volunteer to give our staff a longer lunch on Tuesday, December 17!  We have a special luncheon planned and want to be sure all staff have time in their day to enjoy it!  

7230 Idylwood Road, Falls Church, VA 22043 | Main Phone: 703-714-6400

Attendance: 703-714-6464 or email | Health Rm.: 703-714-6410 | Web | Instagram 

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

Message from Mrs. Castillo

This week we will observe Thanksgiving Break, and there will be no school Wednesday, November 27 through Friday, November 29. As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, we wanted to take a moment to express our sincere gratitude for the incredible work and dedication of our students, staff, and families. Your unwavering commitment to our school community has been instrumental in creating a positive and enriching learning environment.

Last week was packed with learning & excitement.  On Monday, Lemon Road hosted visitors from the Region 5 Office, the literacy office, the ESOL office, Greenbriar West Elementary, and Mantua Elementary.  Our teachers and students received rave reviews.  The rounds were centered on the use of best practices to support multilingual learners, but we received positive feedback on student behavior, use of Benchmark Advance (new literacy basal resource), differentiation of instruction, and student engagement.  These opportunities continue to affirm what an amazing school and community we have at Lemon Road. 

Thursday we had a record turn-out for our Family Night & Book Fair event!  We estimate over 275 students came back in the evening to participate.  Thank you to our staff for planning and organizing this event, volunteers for supporting, and everyone else for participating!  It is truly special when the whole community comes together for learning, books, food, and fun!  A round of applause to Ms. Burke for running our successful Book Fair.  We can’t wait to hear what our lions read this weekend.  A big thank you to two community sponsors that helped us with the planting and protection of our Moon Tree – Honor Roll Remodeling and Merrifield Garden Center. 

This week, sixth graders took a field trip to the Woodson Planetarium while Kindergarteners went to the Natural History Museum!  Finally, this weekend our Girls on the Run closed out their fall season with their 5K!  Thanks to our volunteers and parents for supporting!  We look forward to the spring event for returning and new runners.  Be on the lookout for registration information in the new year.   

Parent Reminders

• Let us know if your child will require childcare for the remaining early release Mondays using this link.
• Our Lost & Found is full!  Please stop by before December 9 to claim items.  We will be donating any unlabeled items on the afternoon of December 9. 
• Parent referrals for full-time placement in Advanced Academic Programs are due via email to [email protected] by December 15, 2024. You can find forms here or read more about AAP here.  
• Tuesday morning we held retake pictures for all students and staff that wanted a retake or needed a photo for the year.  Families can log in to purchase your child’s photo here.  
• All parents/guardians/visitors must bring and scan a government-issued photo ID each time they visit school.  Arrive early to events to ensure time for parking and check in.
• Prepare for Meals at School:  Check out the breakfast and lunch menu!
• Have your child log into Clever from Lemon Road Student Links and access both Lexia and ST Math from home.

3-Hour Early Release Planning

Our next 3-Hour Early Release is Monday, December 9th.  These additional early release dates were added to the elementary calendar to give our staff required time to complete state literacy training.  Please click this link to let us know if your child will go home in their typical route at 11:55 or will require childcare at Lemon Road. 

The remaining scheduled dates for early release are:

• December 9 
• February 24
• March 17
• April 28
• May 19

From Your PTA

We hope you all had a wonderful time at Family Night and huge thanks to all the staff and volunteers who made it happen! We also saw MANY families at Silver Diner last week - thank you for your support!  Though things are slowing down before Winter Break we still have a few activities happening in December:

• Please consider donating to our annual Community Service Drive to support local families in need through local food bank SHARE of Mclean and the Kilmer Middle School Food Bank. Thank you for your generosity and support! You can contribute by: 
• Dropping off food donations in the box in the lobby from Dec 1st  - list of items needed 
• Purchasing gift cards from our Amazon wish list  
• Volunteering to help organize or deliver the food - email us at [email protected] 
• The PTA will host a hot cocoa and cookies holiday treat for our amazing staff on Dec 16th - if you would like to help with decorations, set up, baking/buying cookies etc please email us at [email protected]
• Room Parents are starting to plan Winter Holiday Parties for Dec 20th - please reach out to your Room Parent Team to ask how you can help!

Boundary Review Meetings

Community meetings regarding FCPS’ comprehensive boundary review will take place in each of the division's six regions. You are encouraged to attend the meeting in our region, which will take place on Monday, December 2nd, 6:30-8 p.m., at Westfield High School Cafeteria.   A meeting close to Lemon Road will also be at Annandale High School on Thursday, December 12th from 6:45 - 8:15pm.  

Register by clicking on the date above. Language interpretation will be available.  If you are unable to attend, view the full list of meetings on the Comprehensive School Boundary Review webpage.

SEL Screener Results Coming Soon

One of the ways FCPS supports the mental wellness of all students is through the Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener. In October, students in grades 3-12 took the screener, which gives information about their skills such as achieving goals, handling emotions, building relationships with adults and peers, and making good choices. 

The screener also helps students evaluate their school community’s efforts to make them feel valued, included, and supported. Screener data is used to create learning, experiences, and environments for students to succeed.

In early December, families will be able to view student SEL Screener results in SIS ParentVUE. Learn more about the screener on the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage. For help understanding your child’s results or ideas to support them at home, review the Family Guide or contact us. 

FCPS News ICYMI

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• Preparing for Winter Weather
• Lexia Parent Night
• Reducing Chronic Absenteeism in FCPS

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today. 

Upcoming Important Dates

• Monday, November 25: A Week; Full SCA Meeting; Grade 5 Field Trip (George Mason University) 
• Wednesday, November 27 - 29: Thanksgiving Holiday – School is Closed
• Monday, December 2: B Week; Community Service Drive Begins
• Tuesday, December 3: Band/Stings Full Rehearsal 
• Wednesday, December 4: 4th Grade Eco Defense Meeting
• Thursday, December 5: 6th Grade Chorus Rehearsal
• Friday, December 6: Navy & Yellow Spirit Day; 5th Grade Eco Defense Meeting, 4th Grade Family Engagement Event (2 PM)
• Monday, December 9: Early Release (11:55); Band/Stings Full Rehearsal 
• Wednesday, December 11: LRES Winter Evening Concert (Band, Strings & Chorus)
• Thursday, December 12: LRES Winter Morning Abbreviated Concert (Band, Strings & Chorus)
• Friday, December 13:  Community Service Drive Ends

FCPS 2024-2025 School Year Calendar

7230 Idylwood Road, Falls Church, VA 22043 | Main Phone: 703-714-6400

Attendance: 703-714-6464 or email | Health Rm.: 703-714-6410 | Web | Instagram 

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

Message from Mrs. Castillo

Thank you to all our parents, grandparents, and community members who participated in our Veterans' Day Recognition.  We had an amazing turnout and loved sharing our students and classes with you!  Our 5th grade chorus and members of our 6th grade band even had the opportunity to perform for our guests.  Avery Straw joined the Lemon Road PTA meeting Thursday night to share the referral process for full-time AAP services.  

Gentle reminder that our next Three Hour Early Release is December 9th.  This date is a change from the original published date in November. We will share a google link for parents to share their childcare needs for the remainder of the early release dates soon.  

As we are approaching the busy holiday season, we want to take a moment to remind you about the importance of student attendance at school. We are continuing to work as a school team to improve our attendance and need your help. As you plan for family trips, please reference the FCPS Calendar to ensure your child is not missing out on their learning opportunities at school.

Parent Reminders

• Order you child's individual or class photos!   Retake photos through Victor O'Neill are scheduled for Tuesday, November 19.  Email your child's teacher to let them know you would like a photo retake. 
• Parent referrals for full-time placement in Advanced Academic Programs are due via email to [email protected] by December 15, 2024. You can find forms here or read more about AAP here.  
• All parents/guardians/visitors must bring and scan a government-issued photo ID each time they visit school.  
• Prepare for Meals at School:  Check out the breakfast and lunch menu!
• Have your child log into Clever from Lemon Road Student Links and access both Lexia and ST Math from home.

LRES Fall Book Fair

Book Fair Volunteers Needed This Week!  

The students are so excited that Book Fair has started!  Each class will have the opportunity to purchase books one day this week during the school day.  The book fair will also be open Thursday evening during Family Night.  We still need volunteers, especially on Thursday.  Please sign up if you can help. Any questions, contact Gabby Burke [email protected].   Thank you for your support!  

Family Night - This Thursday

Join Lemon Road staff Thursday from 5:30 - 7:00 PM for Family Night.  The PTA will offer complimentary cider & donuts while supplies last, the Book Fair will be open for sales, staff will have stations of math games and literacy activities set up, and pizza & concessions will be for sale.  This event is for all Lemon Road families!  

From Your PTA

Thank you to all who attended the General Meeting this week - the slide deck is available to all members to review on MemberHub.

• Eat out to help out! Get your lunch or dinner at the Silver Diner on November 20th and help raise money for the PTA - just remember to mention Lemon Road when ordering!
• Family Night is on November 21st - the school staff have put together a fun evening of activities for the whole family to run alongside the Book Fair and the PTA will be there with donuts and cider (while they last!) as well as limited concessions and pizza for sale. Sign up here to help - we need some helping hands please! 
• Last year’s PTA memberships expired on September 30th so make sure you remembered to renew for the new year!  

Boundary Review Community Meetings

Community meetings regarding FCPS’ comprehensive boundary review will take place in each of the division's six regions. You are encouraged to attend the meeting in our region, which will take place on Monday, December 2nd, 6:30-8 p.m., at Westfield High School Cafeteria.   The meetings for Region 2 and Region 6 are in locations close to Lemon Road, Glasgow Middle School on Monday, November 18th from 6:30 - 8pm and Annandale High School on Thursday, December 12th from 6:45 - 8:15pm.  

Please register in advance by clicking on the date. Language interpretation will be available.  If you are unable to attend on this date, view the full list of meetings on the Comprehensive School Boundary Review webpage.

FCPS News ICYMI

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• Veterans Day Recognitions
• Resources on IEPs, Financial Aid, Literacy, Community Leadership
• Teacher Hiring Event

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

Upcoming Important Dates

• Monday, November 18:  B Week; Region 5 Instructional Rounds Visit to Lemon Road Classrooms; Book Fair
• Tuesday, November 19: NNAT Testing Grades 2-6; Picture Makeup Day  
• Wednesday, November 20: 6th Grade Field Trip to the Woodson Planetarium (Doble & Dickey-Dunn); SCA Officer Meeting; Silver Diner Restaurant Night
• Thursday, November 21: 6th Grade Field Trip (Albright & Caccavale to Woodson Planetarium); Family Night & Book Fair (5:30-7:00 PM)
• Friday, November 22: Freaky Friday: Sports/Jersey Day; Kindergarten Field Trip (Natural History Museum); Book Fair Last Day
• Monday, November 25: A Week; Full SCA Meeting; Grade 5 Field Trip (George Mason University) 
• Wednesday, November 27 - 29: Thanksgiving Holiday

7230 Idylwood Road, Falls Church, VA 22043 | Main Phone: 703-714-6400

Attendance: 703-714-6464 or email | Health Rm.: 703-714-6410 | Web | Instagram 

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

Message from Mrs. Castillo

First and foremost, we would like to recognize all our members of our community who have served or family serving or have served in our military in any capacity.  Being a part of a military family is such a sacrifice and we are so grateful to you and all who serve.  

Last week we “flew to the moon” as we enjoyed our 6th graders' PBL presentations of their creative Moon Habitats while also viewing our very own “moon tree” planted behind the school!  Our kindergarteners also went for their annual squirrel walk behind the school to bring their science curriculum to life.  Thursday morning our kindergarten - sixth graders enjoyed their 1st PTA assembly of the year - Joe Romano's Books - The Magic is Real!  Thank you to all members of the PTA for this opportunity.  

Robyn Lady, our Dranesville School Board Representative visited and loved what she saw and heard from our students and staff.  

Finally, parents of 2nd - 6th graders, if you plan to refer your child for full-time AAP services, Ms. Straw strongly suggests you attend her presentation on the AAP screening and Referral Process on November 13 at 7 pm during the PTA meeting. Referrals for full-time services are due via email to Ms. Straw by December 15, 2024. Questions about anything related to AAP -  message Ms. Straw at [email protected].

Parent Reminders

• FCPS has started the process of reviewing school boundaries across the division. Please visit FCPS’ website for meeting dates, locations, and other information. Sign up for the School Boundary Review newsletter for updates.

• Lemon Road prints 1st Quarter and Final Progress Reports.  Copies will be sent home in the Wednesday folder this week and are available on ParentVue tomorrow.  
• All parents/guardians/visitors must bring and scan a government-issued photo ID each time they visit school.  
• Order you child's individual or class photos!   Retakes are scheduled for November 19.   
• Parent referrals for full-time placement in Advanced Academic Programs are due via email to [email protected] by December 15, 2024. You can find forms here or read more about AAP here.  
• Prepare for Meals at School:  Check out the breakfast and lunch menu!
• Have your child log into Clever from Lemon Road Student Links and access both Lexia and ST Math from home.

Book Fair Coming Soon PTA Updates

We hope you all heard from your students about our assembly this week with Joe Romano - make sure to check out the PTA Social Media accounts to see the fun!

• Join us on November 13th at 7pm for our last PTA meeting of the calendar year. Mrs. Straw will discuss the full-time AAP referral process as a part of our meeting. Child care for school aged children will be provided as well as light snacks. 
• Eat out to help out! Get your lunch or dinner at the Silver Diner on November 20th and help raise money for the PTA - just remember to mention Lemon Road when ordering!
• Family Night is on November 21st - the teachers have put together a fun evening of activities for the whole family to run alongside the Book Fair and the PTA will be there with donuts and cider (while they last!) as well as limited concessions and pizza for sale. Sign up here to help! 
• Last year’s PTA memberships expired on September 30th so renew for the new year!  

LRES Family Night

Join us for a fun-filled evening of learning and laughter!

When: Thursday, November 21st 

Time: 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

What to Expect:

• Engaging math and literacy games
• Take-home activity bags
• Free donuts and cider
• Book Fair in the library

Let's make learning fun together!

Family Liaison Resources

Mabel Morales is the Lemon Road Family Liaison.  She works hard to support all our families with needs and resources to support their students.  Mrs. Morales collaborates with families fluently in both English and Spanish.  If you are in need of any resources, be sure to reach out to her at [email protected].  Below are other family resource topics:

• FCPS tutors - Is your family looking for resources to help support your child’s academic success? FCPS’ Family Resource Center (FRC) maintains a list of district employees who hold a valid Virginia teaching credential and who are available to be hired as a tutor by parents. FRC maintains this list, but families are responsible for contacting and working directly with tutors. This list is not “approved” by FCPS and is only meant as a resource.
• Free online tutoring - FCPS partners with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors services at no cost, including live online classes, on demand chat tutoring, essay editing, study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, & diagnostic tests.
• IEP Palooza and Community Resource Fair  Parents/caregivers, school staff, and students over the age of 14 are invited to attend an interactive event celebrating the individualized education program (IEP) process. The IEP Palooza and Community Resource Fair will take place on Saturday, November 16, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m., at Jackson Middle School.
• FCPS Family Resource Center is sponsoring a webinar for families titled My Kid is Having a Meltdown.  What Do I Do?  5 Ways to De-Escalate a Nuclear Meltdown & Stop the Shame Cycle.  Calm Parenting Podcast founder, Kirk Martin will present on Monday, November 11th from 10-11:30 am. Register online here

FCPS News In Case You Missed It

• In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:
• Fall Testing Results
• Boundary Review Community Meetings
• Resources for Families 

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today. 

Upcoming Important Dates

Tuesday, November 12: Veterans Day Breakfast (8:30 AM); 4 - 6 Variety Show Auditions (3 PM)

Wednesday, November 13: Grade 1 NNAT testing;  PTA General Meeting with Mrs. Straw (7 PM)

Thursday, November 14: Book Fair Set-Up (3 PM)

Friday, November 15: LRES Spirit wear Day; Book Fair Opening Day; 1st Grade Field Trip to Huntley Meadows

Monday, November 18:  B Week; Region 5 Instructional Rounds Visit to Lemon Road; Book Fair

Tuesday, November 19:  Fall Picture Day Make Ups; NNAT Testing Grades 2 - 6 (make ups)

Wednesday, November 20: 6th Grade Field Trip to the Woodson Planetarium (Doble & Dickey-Dunn); SCA Officer Meeting (2:15)

Thursday, November 21: 6th Grade Field Trip to the Woodson Planetarium (Albright & Caccavale); Family Night & Book Fair (5:30 - 7 PM)

Friday, November 22: Kindergarten Field Trip (Natural History Museum; Book Fair Last Day

FCPS 2024-2025 School Year Calendar

7230 Idylwood Road, Falls Church, VA 22043 | Main Phone: 703-714-6400

Attendance: 703-714-6464 or email | Health Rm.: 703-714-6410 | Web | Instagram 

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

School Pictures Available

All students and classes had their photos taken by Victor O'Neill studios.  Pictures are available for preview and purchase online for those that did not pre-order.  If your child was absent, or you would like them to retake their photos, the photographers will return on November 19.  

Please visit: https://vando.imagequix.com/g1001141813#login

use your child's student ID when prompted for the online code.

For questions regarding school pictures please email: [email protected]

Veterans Day Recognition at LRES

We would like to honor all veterans or members of the military who are connected to the Lemon Road Community!  First, we are hosting a breakfast on Tuesday, November 12 to thank you for your service (please RSVP).  Second, we hope each classroom can have a veteran or member of the military visit during the day (see link here).  Lastly, we are creating a photo slideshow of photos for our students and staff to highlight those that can and cannot join us in person that day.  If you have a photo,  please email it to Gabby Burke, our librarian: [email protected] by Friday, November 8th.  Please include the preferred title and/or rank and name of the veteran as it should appear on the slide, as well as the name of the Lemon Road student or staff member whom they are connected.  

7230 Idylwood Road, Falls Church, VA 22043 | Main Phone: 703-714-6400

Attendance: 703-714-6464 or email | Health Rm.: 703-714-6410 | Web | Instagram 

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

Message from Mrs. Castillo

Can you believe the first quarter of the school year has come to an end? For eleven weeks our students have shined brightly, and last week was certainly no different! We navigated an unusual schedule and had lots of fun with Costume Day! Most grade levels have had their 1st field trip of the year while a few are still to come.  Students have learned using a completely different style of literacy instruction using Benchmark Advance while the math pacing guide changed significantly from last year.  

Lemon Road prints progress reports for the 1st quarter and final quarter of the year.  Be sure to look for your child's progress report next Wednesday, November 13.  

Remember that we have 3 spirit days each month.  On November 8, all students & staff wear their Lemon Road polos.  On November 15, we wear LRES spirit wear or navy & yellow.  Finally our November Freaky Friday will be celebrated on Friday, November 22 when we all wear jerseys representing our favorite youth, college, or professional team!  

Have a great short week! 

Parent Reminders

• All parents/guardians/visitors must bring and scan a government-issued photo ID each time they visit school.  This is a FCPS safety requirement for all child & staff safety.  
• Log into SIS ParentVUE to complete the Impact Aid form.  
• Order you child's individual or class photos!   Retakes are scheduled for November 19.   
• Parent referrals for full-time placement in Advanced Academic Programs are due via email to [email protected] by December 15, 2024. You can find forms here or read more about AAP here.  Learn more about this process on November 13 at the PTA meeting!
• Prepare for Meals at School:  Check out the breakfast and lunch menu!
• Have your child log into Clever from Lemon Road Student Links and access both Lexia and ST Math from home
• Students arriving after 8:15 AM must be walked in by a grown up and are marked tardy.

LRES Planted a "Moon Tree"

Grant writers Mrs. Busch, Mrs. Caccavale, and Mrs. Doble are thrilled to announce that Lemon Road Elementary was awarded a NASA Moon Tree!  The tree grew from one of 2,000 seeds that orbited the mood on the Artemis I in 2022.  We have consulted with a variety of local businesses to support our sweet gum tree and look forward to the school and community learning about our growing tree!  

Veteran's Day Recognition

We would like to honor all veterans who are connected to the Lemon Road Community!  First, we are hosting a breakfast on Tuesday, November 12 to thank you for your service (please RSVP).  Second, we hope each classroom can have a veteran or member of the military visit during the day (see link here).  Lastly, we are creating a photo slideshow of photos for our students and staff to highlight those that can and cannot join us in person that day.  If you have a photo,  please email it to Gabby Burke, our librarian: [email protected] by Friday, November 8th.  Please include the preferred title and/or rank and name of the veteran as it should appear on the slide, as well as the name of the Lemon Road student or staff member whom they are connected.  

Book Fair - Coming Soon PTA Updates

We hope everyone was able to take some time and relax over the long weekend!

• Join us on November 13th at 7pm for our last PTA meeting of the calendar year. Ms. Straw will overview the Full-time AAP referral process and we will have our typical PTA business as well. Child care for school aged children will be provided as well as light snacks. See you there!
• Eat out to help out! Get your lunch or dinner at the Silver Diner on November 20th and help raise money for the PTA - mention Lemon Road when ordering!
• Update your PTA membership for the school year!

FCPS News ICYMI

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• Calendar Reminders
• Resources for Families 
• Complete Impact Aid Survey

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.  

Upcoming Important Dates

Monday, November 4: B Week; School Planning Day

Tuesday, November 5: Election Day; SACC Closed

Wednesday, November 6: PTA Board Meeting (8:30 AM); Robyn Lady School Board Member Visit; 6th Grade Astronomy Share (2:00); SCA Officer Meeting (2:15)

Thursday, November 7: Joe Romano PTA Assembly (K-3 @ 8:40 – 9:25 / 4-6 @ 9:45 – 10:30); K - 3 Variety Show Tryouts (3 PM)

Friday, November 8: Polo Day; Kindergarten Squirrel Walk Family Engagement Event

Monday, November 11: A Week; Veterans Day; School Holiday

Tuesday, November 12: Veterans Day Breakfast (8:30 AM); 4 - 6 Variety Show Auditions (3 PM)

Wednesday, November 13: Grade 1 NNAT;  PTA General Meeting with Mrs. Straw

Thursday, November 14: Book Fair Set-Up (3 PM)

Friday, November 15: LRES Spirit wear Day; Book Fair Opening Day; 1st Grade Field Trip to Huntley Meadows

Monday, November 18:  B Week; Region 5 Instructional Rounds Visit to Lemon Road; Book Fair

Tuesday, November 19:  Fall Picture Day Make Ups

FCPS 2024-2025 School Year Calendar

7230 Idylwood Road, Falls Church, VA 22043 | Main Phone: 703-714-6400

Attendance: 703-714-6464 or email | Health Rm.: 703-714-6410 | Web | Instagram 

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

Message from Mrs. Castillo

This week, our students held their 1st SCA monthly meeting, we showed off all the decorated pumpkins in our storybook forest, and second grade took a trip to Cox farms!  Friday was a successful 2nd movie night of the year under the stars.  Thank you PTA!

We would like to honor all veterans who are connected to the Lemon Road Community by creating a photo slideshow for our students and staff.  If you would like to share a photo,  please email it to Gabby Burke, our librarian: [email protected] by Friday, November 8th.  Please include the preferred title and/or rank and name of the veteran as it should appear on the slide, as well as the name of the Lemon Road student or staff member whom they are connected.  

Coming up, we have several calendar reminders:  tomorrow is a 3-hour early release, Thursday, October 31st is a 2-hour early release and our 5th & 6th Grade Dance, Friday, November 1st is a school holiday, then Monday, November 4th and Tuesday, November 5th are student holidays and election day.  

Have a great week!

Parent Reminders

• All families must complete the Impact Aid form in ParentVUE!  Directions here: https://www.fcps.edu/impact

• Order you child's individual or class photos!   Retakes are scheduled for November 19.   

• Parents that wish to refer their child for full-time placement in Advanced Academic Programs beginning next fall, referrals are due via email to [email protected] by December 15, 2024. You can find forms here or  read more about AAP here.  Learn more about this process on November 13 at the PTA meeting!
• Prepare for Meals at School:  Check out the breakfast and lunch menu!
• Have your child log into Clever from Lemon Road Student Links and access both Lexia and ST Math from home
• Students arriving after 8:15 AM must be walked in by a grown up and are marked tardy.

Variety Show Auditions

We look forward to this year's Variety Show.  Lemon Road staff plan this show each year the Friday before Winter Break.  All students are welcome to audition - see the dates above!  

Freaky Friday: Costume Day

We look forward to celebrating our October birthdays with this month's Freaky Friday (Thursday): Costume Day! Students may dress up on October 31st. Costumes must be school appropriate and allow students to participate in all learning activities.   Be creative, but no masks or weapons.

Veterans Day Recognition

Veterans and members of the military, we are excited to welcome you to Lemon Road Elementary School on Tuesday, November 12th, to celebrate you and your service to our country. We will begin with a light breakfast at 8:30am in the library followed by classroom visits to share your stories and/or to read a book. To ensure a smooth plan for the day we kindly request that you complete THIS FORM so we can plan accordingly.

LRES PTA Updates

Thank you to everyone who attended our Spooky Movie Night this week - we hope you all had fun!

• Last year’s PTA memberships expired on September 30th so make sure you remembered to renew for the new year!  
• Our Annual Coat Drive ends on Oct 31st - so please drop any pre-loved but in good condition coats into the Minion box in the Lobby and help us make sure all our Lions and Lion families stay warm this winter!

• Our Art Committee is looking for someone to help organize the updating of the student art hung around the school - are you able to help for around an hour a week? If you are interested please email us at [email protected] to discuss 

FCPS In Case You Missed It

• In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:
• Federal Impact Aid Survey
• Football Players Tackle Literacy
• Tips to Keep Children Safe

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

Upcoming Important Dates

• Monday, October 28: A Week; Early Release Monday (11:55 dismissal)
• Wednesday, October 30: Grade 2 Family Engagement Event (8:45 AM); Grade 3 Field Trip to The Alden; Afternoon Pre-K Costume Walk
• Thursday, October 31: End of Quarter 1; Freaky Friday & Costume Day; Early Release (12:55); SCA 5th & 6th Dance (1:00 - 2:15 PM)
• Friday, November 1: Holiday; SACC Open
• Monday, November 4: B Week; School Planning Day; SACC Open
• Tuesday, November 5: Election Day - Teacher Workday; SACC Closed
• Wednesday, November 6: PTA Board Meeting (8:30 AM); 6th Grade Astronomy Share Fair (1:45); SCA Officer Meeting (2:15)
• Thursday, November 7: PTA Sponsored Joe Romano Assembly (K-3 @ 8:40 – 9:25 / 4-6 @ 9:45 – 10:30); K - 3 Variety Show Tryouts (3 PM)
• Friday, November 8: Polo Day; Kindergarten Squirrel Walk; 4 - 6 Variety Show Tryouts (3 PM)
• FCPS 2024-2025 School Year Calendar

7230 Idylwood Road, Falls Church, VA 22043 | Main Phone: 703-714-6400

Attendance: 703-714-6464 or email | Health Rm.: 703-714-6410 | Web | Instagram 

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

Message from Mrs. Castillo

Our students were busy this week, not only with important learning in the classroom, but also demonstrating leadership at our SWAP lead by the Eco Defense Squad and SCA Office & Classroom Representative Induction.  Fourth graders learned about Virginia history as a part of their big Jamestown Field Trip, some of our students visited the Thinkabit Lab in Falls Church, and 5th graders showed off their knowledge of corn (topic of their Benchmark Advance Unit) at their "Cornival"!  

Looking ahead, we have many calendar updates:  October 28th is the 2nd 3-hour early release (for elementary planning).  October 31st is a traditional 2-hour early release when we will host our annual 5th & 6th Grade SCA Dance. November 1st is a holiday observing both Diwali and All Saints Day.  November 4th and 5th are student holidays and election day.  

Thank you for all your volunteering, participation, and communication this year.  It has been an amazing start to the year and we are thrilled to partner with you!  

Parent Reminders:

• Starting tomorrow, please complete the Impact Aid form in SIS ParentVUE by selectng Online Packets in the top right hand corner, and then click the ‘Federal Impact Aid Survey’ button on the bottom of the page.
• All students are encouraged to bring in a painted pumpkin to the library to be a part of our Storybook Forest (no cutting or carving please)
• Have your child log into Clever from Lemon Road Student Links and access both Lexia and ST Math from home
• Students arriving after 8:15 AM must be walked in by a grown up and are marked tardy.
• Log in to SIS ParentVUE and sign to acknowledge your review of the SR&R, or sign and return the signature sheet.

• Parents that wish to refer their child for full-time placement in Advanced Academic Programs beginning next fall, referrals are due via email to [email protected] by December 15, 2024. You can find forms here or  read more about AAP here.  Learn more about this process on November 13 at the PTA meeting!

• Prepare for Meals at School:  Check out the breakfast and lunch menu!

Updates from Your LRES PTA

Thank you to everyone who attended our Kindergarten Bedtime Stories this week!  It was an adorably good time! 

• Last year’s PTA memberships expired on September 30th so make sure you renew for the new year!  
• Our Annual Coat Drive is underway.  Please drop coats into the Minion box in the Lobby this week!
• Our Spooky Movie Night will be on Oct 25th - families may set up and purchase concessions beginning at 6:30 PM.  The movie will start at 7 PM.
• Our Art Committee is looking for someone to update the student art hung around the school - are you able to help for around an hour a week? If you are interested please email us at [email protected] to discuss.

Second Step - SEL Curriculum

Over the past few weeks, we've begun the Second Step® curriculum as a part of morning meetings each week.  Second Step skills and concepts are designed to help children both in and out of school. Four units will cover the following:
1. Growth Mindset & Goal-Setting: Children learn how to pay attention and manage distractions, develop a growth mindset, and apply goal-setting strategies to their social and academic lives.
2. Emotion Management: Children learn how to identify and label emotions and use emotion management strategies—including stress management for older students—to calm strong feelings.
3. Empathy & Kindness: Children learn how to recognize kindness and act kindly, have empathy for others and take others’ perspectives, and recognize kind acts and empathy as important elements of building and maintaining relationships.
4. Problem-Solving: Children learn how to identify and state a problem, recognize if a problem is an accident, and use the STEP problem-solving process:

S: Say the problem
T: Think of solutions
E: Explore the outcomes
P: Pick a solution

If you have any questions about Second Step, please don’t
hesitate to contact your child’s teacher or one of our counselors for more information. Thank you for your support as we work to build a safe and supportive school community.

Order Individual & Class Photos

All students and classes had their photos taken on Friday.  Parents can order digital or printed copies of photos now.  Anyone absent will have their photo taken on the fall retake day, scheduled for November 19.   

📸 Pictures Available: Approximately two weeks after photo day

🛒 Order Online: https://vando.imagequix.com/g1001141813#login

📧 Questions about Ordering? Email us at [email protected]

Help Wanted - Building

Lemon Road has been selected to receive a Moon Tree seedling, grown from a seed that flew around the moon in the Artemis I spacecraft. We’re building a protective garden fence, and would love to tap into our community members’ woodworking skills. If you’re interested in helping construct a fenced area with a gate, please contact Katie Busch at [email protected]. Materials are being purchased this week, building to follow shortly.

Family Digital Citizenship Website

Thorn supports families with hard discussions about online safety. The interactive discussion guides are especially helpful - be sure to click on a conversation and then keep scrolling down to the interactive where the conversation is modeled.  Check out what else Thorn has to offer!

FCPS News ICYMI

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• FCPS Family Orientation
• Community Conversations
• Immunization Clinics

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

Upcoming Important Dates

• Sunday, October 20:  Washington Spirit Game PTA Event
• Monday, October 21: B Week; Eco Defense Stream Clean Up (3:00)
• Tuesday, October 22: CogAT Testing (Grade 2)
• Wednesday, October 23: CogAT Testing (Grade 2); SCA Officer Meeting
• Thursday, October 24: CogAT Testing (Grade 2)
• Friday, October 25: Full SCA Meeting (8:20); Grade 2 Field Trip; PTA Movie Night
• Monday, October 28: A Week; Early Release Monday #2
• Tuesday, October 29: 
• Wednesday, October 30: Grade 2 Family Engagement Event (8:45 AM)
• Thursday, October 31: End of Quarter 1; Early Release (12:55); SCA 5th & 6th Dance (1:00 - 2:15 PM)
• Friday, November 1: Holiday
• Monday, November 4: B Week; School Planning Day
• Tuesday, November 5: Election Day - Teacher Workday 
• Wednesday, November 6: 6th Grade Astronomy Share Fair (1:45); SCA Officer Meeting (2:15)
• Thursday, November 7: PTA Sponsored Joe Romano Assembly (K-3 @ 8:40 – 9:25 / 4-6 @ 9:45 – 10:30)
• Friday, November 8: Variety Show Tryouts (3:00 in Music Room)
• FCPS 2024-2025 School Year Calendar

7230 Idylwood Road, Falls Church, VA 22043 | Main Phone: 703-714-6400

Attendance: 703-714-6464 or email | Health Rm.: 703-714-6410 | Web | Instagram