FCPS

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A Message from the Principal

Hello Belle View Families, 

We have a busy week this week at the View!  Today we have an author visit for all students and we will be having a 3 hour early release.  Students will be released at 12:55 unless childcare hardships were specified. 

Tomorrow we are hosting a special education family night from 6-7pm in the cafeteria for any families wanting resources for their child with down syndrome, autism, or other cognitive impairments.  We have a parent joining us, Erin Thielman who is a board member of the Down Syndrome Association of Northern VA to discuss resources and programs available to children and also, Principal Pete Kelly from The Pulley Center up at West Potomac High School that works with 18-22 year old students to access the work force.  Pizza served and child care available. 

Thursday is our Thanksgiving Luncheon--lunch schedules are below and have gone home and have been emailed in weekly class newsletters!

Join us Friday night at 6pm for the ever popular Belle View Bingo Night!  Preorders have gone home in Wednesday folders!  So much fun to be had!

Have a fabulous week!

Proud Principal, 

Katie Pluntke 

 

AAP Information Meeting-Nov. 12th Thanksgiving Luncheon-11/21

Our Thanksgiving Lunch is Thursday, November 21st. See the link here for classroom lunch times!

Also, if parents could assist in ticket sales in the main hallway, we would appreciate it.

Ticket Sales Sign Up

West Potomac Pyramid Special Education Family Night-11/19

Please join us Tuesday, November 19th from 6pm-7pm for SPECIAL EDUCATION FAMILY NIGHT!  

Guest speaker, Erin Theilman-a BVES parents and Board Member of Down Syndrome Association of Northern Virginia as well as Peter Kelley, Principal at Pulley Career Center.

Childcare and pizza provided.  Come learn about resources for students with down syndrome, autism, or intellectual disabilities and connect with other families within the West Potomac Pyramid schools. 

From our Family Liaison, Mrs. Garcia

November is Family Engagement Month

When schools and families work together everyone benefits! Here are some fun ideas on how families can be engaged with their student’s learning and growth.

• Join Belle View’s Parent Teacher Association (PTA).
• Plan a day with no electronics. Consider books, games, or puzzles.
• Put a note into your child's backpack or lunch box as a token of encouragement.
• Talk to your child about his/ her favorite subject in school.
• Flip through old family photos and tell stories about your family's history.
• Visit your local library or go online to get a library card for your child. 
• Practice digital safety and responsibility with your child. Ideas and tip sheets.
• Review Quick Tips for Parents Library  
• Ask your child what they discuss in Morning Meetings and Advisory. 

Literacy Resources for Families Webpage

Please visit the new Literacy Resources for Families webpage which has been published to provide families with information about how you can support your children with developing literacy knowledge and skills at home.  This webpage has valuable information about the reading and writing resources that can be used at home. This webpage and every page on the FCPS website can be translated into multiple languages. If you need any assistance navigating the website please contact Family Liaison Amy Garcia, [email protected].

Immunizations- Elementary School Clinics

The Fairfax County Health Department will provide immunizations for FCPS elementary students on limited early release Mondays at their district offices. All school-required immunizations will be offered at no cost. The next clinic will be on Monday, November 18 from 2-7pm at the Mount Vernon District Office, 8350 Richmond Highway, #233, Alexandria, VA. Call 703-246-7100 to make your appointment.

 

As the holiday season approaches and your child asks for devices, consider reviewing Cellphones and Devices: A Guide for Parents and Caregivers in English or Spanish. You can find questions to ask about the right time to get a device, general device use rules, and tips to set a healthy media balance. There is also a YouTube version in English and Spanish if you prefer to listen through the tips.

What's Happening?

 

Monday, Nov. 18th-3 hour Early Release-dismissal at 12:55.

Tuesday, Nov. 19th-6pm-7pm West Potomac Pyramid Special Education Night @Belle View.

Thursday, November 21st-Thanksgving Luncheon

Friday, November 22-Belle View Bingo Night 6-8pm

 

 

PTA Updates

 Join the PTA here!  https://belleviewes.memberhub.com/store

Weekly Staff/Teacher Feature

Name:Claire Stabile

Position:4th Grade Teacher

Years in FCPS/Education: 3rd year as a teacher & all 3 years have been at BVES! Penn State Alum, We Are!

Interest/hobbies: Traveling, watching sports, playing pickleball, walking, spending time with family and friends, baking

Favorite Children’s Book:When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead

6701 Fort Hunt Rd, Alexandria, VA 22307 | Main Office: 703-660-8300

Attendance: 703-660-8383 | Web | Facebook | Instagram

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A Message from the Principal

Hello BVES Families, 

Happy Veterans Day to all who served! I hope you have has a wonderful long weekend!

It was a been a fabulous week her at the View!  Thank you to all who attended our STEAM Night this past Thursday!  It was a fantastic night for all students to engage in so many fun activities, such as exploring Keva blocks, airplane making, sink or float activities, and so much more. 

Also--a huge thank you to our PTA for hosting a delicious staff breakfast on Friday morning!  The staff was so grateful and it is a fabulous way to kick off Quarter 2!

Just a reminder that progress reports will be sent home in this Wednesday, November 13th.  Kindergarten does not have progress reports for this quarter but will for the next three quarters. 

Also, next Monday, Nov. 18th is another 3 hour early release day.  Dismissal is at 12:55pm.  

Proud Principal, 

Katie Pluntke 

 

AAP Information Meeting-Nov. 12th

An informational meeting will be held to review the screening and identification process for full-time Advanced Academic Programs (AAP) services.  The meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 12th at 6:00 pm in the Library.

Thanksgiving Luncheon-11/21

Our Thanksgiving Lunch is Thursday, November 21st. See the link here for classroom lunch times!

Also, if parents could assist in ticket sales in the main hallway, we would appreciate it.

Ticket Sales Sign Up

West Potomac Pyramid Special Education Family Night-11/19

Please join us Tuesday, November 19th from 6pm-7pm for SPECIAL EDUCATION FAMILY NIGHT!  

Guest speaker, Erin Theilman-a BVES parents and Board Member of Down Syndrome Association of Northern Virginia as well as Peter Kelley, Principal at Pulley Career Center.

Childcare and pizza provided.  Come learn about resources for students with down syndrome, autism, or intellectual disabilities and connect with other families within the West Potomac Pyramid schools. 

From our Family Liaison, Mrs. Garcia

Belle View Families are invited to the Free Fresh Food Market on Wednesday, November 13 at Bucknell Elementary School (6925 University Drive, Alexandria, VA 22307). Distribution of fresh fruits and vegetables will begin at 10:30am and continue until the food is gone. We will be at the front of the school, Door #2. If it rains, we will be at the back of the school, Door #9. Bring your own bags. Volunteers are needed to help with distribution and breaking down boxes.  Please contact Amy Garcia, Family Liaison, [email protected], (cell) 571-501-8170, if you can help or if you have any questions.

November is Family Engagement in Education Month. This month reminds us that families are children’s first and most important teachers, advocates, and nurturers. Research shows that the most effective way to increase student achievement is for families to be actively involved in their children’s education. Check out the Family Engagement Month Calendar here in English and Spanish for a daily activity to help support your child’s learning and connect with your school.

Fairfax County Public Schools has many resources to support families and their student’s success and well-being. Please visit the FCPS Family Academy to see the classes, webinars, workshops, and programs offered by FCPS to help you support your child’s needs and learning at home. Sign up for the virtual, interactive Getting to know FCPS: A Family Orientation (offered in English, Spanish and Korean), check out the monthly Helping Children Learn newsletter or the Daily Learning Planner (available in English and Spanish) and much more! Please contact Amy Garcia, Family Liaison, [email protected], call/text: 571-501-8170 if you have any questions.

Fairfax Recycles Day is on Saturday, November 16 from 10:00am-2:00pm at the Gerry Hyland Government Center, 8350 Richmond Hwy, Alexandria, VA 22309. Bring your hard to recycle items (including textiles, household batteries and small electronic waste), check out cool trucks, and enjoy some snacks. Find out more information and see a complete list of recyclable items you may drop off here.

Immunizations- Elementary School Clinics

The Fairfax County Health Department will provide immunizations for FCPS elementary students on limited early release Mondays at their district offices. All school-required immunizations will be offered at no cost. The next clinic will be on Monday, November 18 from 2-7pm at the Mount Vernon District Office, 8350 Richmond Highway, #233, Alexandria, VA. Call 703-246-7100 to make your appointment.

What's Happening?

Tuesday, Nov. 12th-AAP Screening Information Meeting. In the library at 6pm.

Monday, Nov. 18th-3 hour Early Release-dismissal at 12:55.

Tuesday, Nov. 19th-6pm-7pm West Potomac Pyramid Special Education Night @Belle View.

Thursday, November 21st-Thanksgving Luncheon.

 

 

PTA Updates

On behalf of myself and the PTA I would just like to say thank you to everyone who donated to the staff breakfast. Your generosity was greatly appreciated, especially by the teachers and staff who were all greatly touched by the love and support shown to them by the Belle View Community. The event was an overwhelming success and I received many thank you's from the teachers and staff and just wanted to pass those thanks on to everyone. Personally, I would like to thank everyone as well as without your kind donations of food and drinks the event would not have been possible.  See you again at the

Sincerely,

Jeff Foltz 

Weekly Staff/Teacher Feature

Name:Claire Stabile

Position:4th Grade Teacher

Years in FCPS/Education: 3rd year as a teacher & all 3 years have been at BVES! Penn State Alum, We Are!

Interest/hobbies: Traveling, watching sports, playing pickleball, walking, spending time with family and friends, baking

Favorite Children’s Book:When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead

6701 Fort Hunt Rd, Alexandria, VA 22307 | Main Office: 703-660-8300

Attendance: 703-660-8383 | Web | Facebook | Instagram

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A Message from the Principal

Hello BVES Families, 

I hope you all had a wonderful weekend! This past week we had storybook character day.  We had so many wonderful costumes and sharing all about the student's favorite books. 

I hope you were able to have constructive parent-teacher conferences over the past month.  Those conferences are a wonderful time to discuss progress, any learning challenges, and home/school supports. 

Our teachers have been hard at work teaching with the new Language Arts curriculum, and we are excited to help all of our students become strong readers and writers! This year we also have new assessments, which is how we check if your student needs extra help with reading and writing, and new Standards of Learning (SOLs).

Because of these changes, we are now teaching all of the Language Arts skills your child needs to know (and checking if they need extra help) throughout the whole school year, instead of different skills each quarter. While these skills will be new to your child in the beginning of the year, the goal is for your child to grow strong in all of their new skills by the end of the year.

This means that when you get your child’s progress report next month, it might look different. Your child’s teacher will give you more information on the new progress reporting and how we’re making sure your child is getting any extra help they might need. You can also find more information on FCPS’ Grading and Reporting webpage.

We hope to see you all on Thursday for our STEAM Night!  We have a bunch of amazing stations and STEAM activities for your kiddos to explore. Free pizza and our SCA will be selling baked goods.

Proud Principal, 

Katie Pluntke 

 

Join Us for STEAM Night!  This THURSDAY!

STEAM Night—a hands-on event where students and families explore Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math through fun activities. It’s a great way to dive into the world of STEAM and spark curiosity!

Date & Time: Thursday, November 7 from 5:30-7pm
Location: BVES Café and Gym

We are also looking for middle and high school volunteers to help make this event a success! Volunteering is a great way to earn service hours, gain leadership experience, and contribute to your community. Volunteers will assist with activity stations. Directions and materials will be provided.

Interested in Volunteering?
Sign up using this sign-up link. We are looking for about 6 more volunteers to have all stations covered.

AAP Information Meeting-Nov. 12th

An informational meeting will be held to review the screening and identification process for full-time Advanced Academic Programs (AAP) services.  The meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 12th at 6:00 pm in the Library.

Thanksgiving Luncheon-Nov. 21st

Our Thanksgiving Lunch is Thursday, November 21st. See the link here for classroom lunch times!

Also, if parents could assist in ticket sales in the main hallway, we would appreciate it.

Ticket Sales Sign Up

West Potomac Pyramid Special Education Family Night-11/19

Please join us Tuesday, November 19th from 6pm-7pm for SPECIAL EDUCATION FAMILY NIGHT!  

Guest speaker, Erin Theilman-a BVES parents and Board Member of Down Syndrome Association of Northern Virginia as well as Peter Kelley, Principal at Pulley Career Center.

Childcare and pizza provided.  Come learn about resources for students with down syndrome, autism, or intellectual disabilities and connect with other families within the West Potomac Pyramid schools. 

From our Family Liaison, Mrs. Garcia

The FCPS Family Resource Center hosts free virtual webinars each month, with translation available.  The November webinars include: My Kid is Having a Meltdown. What Do I Do? With Calm Parenting Podcast founder Kirk Martin; Language Arts and Literacy Instruction for Students with Significant Cognitive Disabilities Accessing an Adapted Curriculum and Building Resilience: Helping Teens Develop Coping Skills and Emotional Intelligence. For dates, times, additional information and to register visit the Family Resource Center website here or call 703-204-3941.

What's Happening?

Monday-Nov. 4th-No School for Students

Tuesday-Nov. 5th-No School for Students

Thursday, Nov. 7th-STEAM Night 5:30-7pm.

Friday, Nov 8th-Quarterly Staff Breakfast sponsored by PTA. Need details, email Jeff Foltz @ [email protected]  Sign Up today! Sign Up 

Tuesday, Nov. 19th-6pm-7pm West Potomac Pyramid Special Education Night @Belle View

Thursday, November 21st-Thanksgving Luncheon

 

 

PTA Updates

Join the PTA!

Sign Up Online!

Click to edit this Friday, Nov 8th-Quarterly Staff Breakfast sponsored by PTA. Need details, email Jeff Foltz @ [email protected]  Sign Up today! Sign Up Here!

Weekly Staff/Teacher Feature

Name: Kristen Lehner

Position: Assistant Principal

Years in FCPS/Education: This is my 9th year in FCPS and my 5th year at Belle View Elementary School! I was previously a high school teacher for 4 years before coming to Elementary School. 

Interest/hobbies: Spending time with family and friends, outdoor adventures, and playing with my dog Noah. 

Favorite Children’s Book: Dragons Love Tacos

6701 Fort Hunt Rd, Alexandria, VA 22307 | Main Office: 703-660-8300

Attendance: 703-660-8383 | Web | Facebook | Instagram

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A Message from the Principal

Hello BVES Families, 

What an awesome red ribbon spirit week, culminating with our Fun Run this past Thursday!  Thank you to all who supported, volunteered, or sponsored this tremendous fundraising event. This event raises money for community events, field trips, assemblies, school equipment and technology and more.  We are accepting donations until Tuesday, October 29th. 

This edition of the Bobcat Beat is pretty lengthy, with information on STEAM Night, Thanksgiving Luncheon, and Teacher Breakfast Sign Ups.  Please take a few minutes to read and volunteer if you can. 

As a reminder, we will not be dismissing students from the office after 3:30.  If you need to make a change for dismissal call the office and/or email the classroom teacher before 3:00pm.

Employee award season is in full effect!  If you want to recognize and nominate a specific staff member for their hand work and dedication to student learning, please submit nominations for an excellence award here!

Proud Principal, 

Katie Pluntke 

 

Join Us for STEAM Night!

We’re excited to announce an upcoming STEAM Night—a hands-on event where students and families explore Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math through fun activities. It’s a great way to dive into the world of STEAM and spark curiosity!

Date & Time: Thursday, November 7 from 5:30-7pm
Location: BVES Café and Gym

We are also looking for middle and high school volunteers to help make this event a success! Volunteering is a great way to earn service hours, gain leadership experience, and contribute to your community. Volunteers will assist with activity stations. Directions and materials will be provided.

Interested in Volunteering?
Sign up using this sign-up link. We are looking for about 6 more volunteers to have all stations covered.

 

October is Digital Citizenship Month.  Staff at BVES highly recommend parents familiarize themselves with FCPS's resources to help guide family conversations about digital citizenship and your child's digital footprint. 

Digital Citizenship, Establishing Expectations at Home

Digital Citizenship Guidance for Technology Use 

Digital Citizenship for Families  

Additional Resources offered by FCPS 

Thanksgiving Luncheon-Nov. 21st

Our Thanksgiving Lunch is Thursday, November 21st. See the link here for classroom lunch times!

Also, if parents could assist in ticket sales in the main hallway, we would appreciate it.

Ticket Sales Sign Up

Attendance Matters!

Research shows that missing 10 percent of the school, or about 18 days in most school districts, negatively affects a student’s academic performance. That’s just two days a month and that’s known as chronic absence.

Ask your child about "Falling into Great Attendance" 14-day challenge!

From our Family Liaison, Mrs. Garcia

 

Thank you to the parents who joined us for our Family Coffee and Conversation on Supporting Student Learning at Home. If you are interested in the presentation and resources shared, please check out the slides in English or Spanish. Please contact Amy Garcia, Family Liaison, [email protected] if you have any questions.

Please join us Tuesday, November 19th from 6pm-7pm for SPECIAL EDUCATION FAMILY NIGHT!  

Guest speaker, Erin Theilman-a BVES parents and Board Member of Down Syndrome Association of Northern Virginia as well as Peter Kelley, Principal at Pulley Career Center.

Childcare and pizza provided.  Come learn about resources for students with down syndrome, autism, or intellectual disabilities and connect with other families within the West Potomac Pyramid schools. 

Mrs. Pena's 2nd grade class learning about the power of positive thinking. 

What's Happening?

 

Thursday, Oct 24-Family Coffee-5:30 pm 

Thursday, Oct. 31 Story Book Character Day (Dress like a book character-no masks or weapons) and 2 hour end of quarter early release. Dismissal at 1:55.

Friday, Nov.1st-No School Diwali/All Saints Day

Thursday, Nov. 7th-STEAM Night 5:30-7pm.

Friday, Nov 8th-Quarterly Staff Breakfast sponsored by PTA. Need details, email Jeff Foltz @ [email protected]  Sign Up today! Sign Up 

Tuesday, Nov. 19th-6pm-7pm West Potomac Pyramid Special Education Night @Belle View

 

 

PTA Updates

Join the PTA!

Sign Up Online!

Click to edit this Friday, Nov 8th-Quarterly Staff Breakfast sponsored by PTA. Need details, email Jeff Foltz @ [email protected]  Sign Up today! Sign Up Here!

Weekly Staff/Teacher Feature

Name: Vanesa Avila

Position: 3rd grade teacher

Years in FCPS/Education: 2 years 

Interest/hobbies: Spending time with family, traveling, going to the beach, read, walking/lift weights, trying different restaurants 

Favorite Children’s Book: The book with no pictures by B.J. Novak

6701 Fort Hunt Rd, Alexandria, VA 22307 | Main Office: 703-660-8300

Attendance: 703-660-8383 | Web | Facebook | Instagram

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TODAY!!!! October 21st--EARLY RELEASE MONDAY. 12:55 dismissal

Students will be dismissed at 12:55pm.  SACC is open and students requiring supervision like last month will be staying until 3:55.  

A Message from the Principal

Hello BVES Families, 

I would like to give a tremendous shout out to our PTA for hosting an incredible Chili Cook Off!  Bringing back community events and opportunities to connect as a school is one of my main priorities and works in tandem with some family engagement survey results from last Spring where families shared their desires for more school and community events. 

Our Fun Run is on Thursday...we have raised nearly  30% of our $30,000 goal!!

Belle View has a new logo!  With the help of an amazing Belle View mom/daughter duo, we have launched a new logo, featuring a friendly bobcat who will grow into a Sandburg Panther and and West Potomac Wolverine.   

Employee award season is in full effect!  If you want to recognize and nominate a specific staff member for their hand work and dedication to student learning, please submit nominations here!

Proud Principal, 

Katie Pluntke 

 

Attendance Matters!

Poor attendance (2 or more times per month) can influence whether children read proficiently by the end of third grade.

Belle View is gearing up for a "Fall into Great Attendance" Challenge for November!  Stay Tuned for more details!  You child will hear all about this from their teacher and our daily news show.

From our Family Liaison, Mrs. Garcia

Thank you to all the parents who joined us for our first Family Coffee & Conversation on Friday, September 24. We would love to learn more about what topics you would like to see presented in future Family Coffees.  Please complete this short Family Engagement Survey to share your ideas!

Please join us for our next Family Coffee & Conversation-This Thursday, October 24th from 5:30-6:30pm in the library.  We will be talking about how you can help support student learning at home. Learn ideas for getting organized, promoting independence, and motivating your students. We will talk about ways to encourage reading and play learning games at home. Tips for parent-teacher conferences will also be discussed. Spanish interpretation will be provided. Let us know you can come by signing up here.  Questions? Contact Amy Garcia, Family Liaison, [email protected], 571-501-8170.

Belle View Families are invited to the Free Fresh Food Market on Wednesday, October 23rd at Bucknell Elementary School (6925 University Drive, Alexandria, VA 22307). Distribution of fresh fruits and vegetables will begin at 10:30am and continue until the food is gone. We will be at the front of the school, Door #2. If it rains, we will be at the back of the school, Door #9. Bring your own bags. Volunteers are needed to help with distribution and breaking down boxes.  Please contact Amy Garcia, Family Liaison, [email protected], (cell) 571-501-8170, if you can help or if you have any questions. (Please note 10:30am is the correct time, this is an update from the flyer).

Mrs. Pena's 2nd grade class learning about the power of "yet".

Fun Run is only 4 Days Away!!!

This is our PTA's most important fundraising event of the year is coming on Thursday, October 24th!  The money is used for field trips, curriculum, school improvements, assemblies, and more!

Register NOW!  Donations collected online through October 27th. 

 First Register or re-Login to your parent dashboard and complete your child’s student webpage with a PICTURE at com. School Identifier: 5da0cdd5d6344

1. Make an online donation using the red Donate button right away
2. Share with friends and family, they want to help!
   • Send 10-15 emails and/or text messages
   • Post Facebook or Twitter
   • Help your child reach their goal in 24/48 hours

What's Happening?

 

TODAY!!! Early Release-Monday, Oct 21-12:55 pm

Thursday, Oct. 24-Fun Run-All Day

Thursday, Oct 24-Family Coffee-5:30 pm 

Thursday, Oct. 31 Story Book Character Day (Dress like a book character-no masks or weapons) and 2 hour end of quarter early release. Dismissal at 1:55.

Friday, Nov.1st-No School Diwali/All Saints Day

Friday, Nov 8th-Quarterly Staff Breakfast sponsored by PTA. Need details, email Jeff Foltz @ [email protected]  Sign Up today! Sign Up 

Tuesday, Nov. 19th-6pm-7pm West Potomac Pyramid Special Education Night @Belle View

 

Pumpkin Art by 4th grade!  Learning about texture and shadow in Mrs. Paris's classroom 

PTA Updates

Join the PTA!

Sign Up Online!

 

October 24th Fun Run--Flyers coming home in Wednesday Folders! Get a head start: 

1. First Register or re-Login to your parent dashboard and complete your child’s student webpage with a PICTURE at com. School Identifier: 5da0cdd5d6344
2. Make an online donation using the red Donate button right away
3. Share with friends and family, they want to help!
   • Send 10-15 emails and/or text messages
   • Post Facebook or Twitter
   • Help your child reach their goal in 24/48 hours

Click to edit this pFriday, Nov 8th-Quarterly Staff Breakfast sponsored by PTA. Need details, email Jeff Foltz @ [email protected]  Sign Up today! Sign Up Here!

Weekly Staff/Teacher Feature

Name: Ann Hardin

Position: 6th Grade

Years in FCPS/Education: 24 years in education, 18th year in FCPS, and 5th year at Belle View

Interest/hobbies: Cooking, yoga, “wogging” (walking/jogging), travel, reading, hanging out with with my kids, cats, and husband.

Favorite Children’s Book

The Day the Crayons Quit

6701 Fort Hunt Rd, Alexandria, VA 22307 | Main Office: 703-660-8300

Attendance: 703-660-8383 | Web | Facebook | Instagram

Our Fun Run is Next Thursday!  

Need to sign up your student...click here! Fun Run Link

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A Message from the Principal

Hello BVES Families, 

I hope your family enjoyed the long weekend, and G'mar tov to those celebrating Yom Kippur. 

We had our Student Council Advisory (SCA) board and representatives sworn into office this week.  Our SCA works hard to be role models to our students, complete service projects, support local charities, and more. 

Our staff is so excited for the chili cook off this Thursday! This is such a wonderful event for the school community.  There will be PTA board members available for any parents with questions regarding the Fun Run as well.  Thank our generous PTA for working hard to promote and plan for this event.

Also, thank you to the PTA for stocking snacks this week in our staff lounges.  The teachers and staff have been so appreciative all week. 

Do you love Belle View as much as we do?  FCPS principals have been tasked with creating a list of things people love about our schools.  I would love to open this up to families and the community.  Please feel free to share how amazing Belle View is Here! 

Proud Principal, 

Katie Pluntke 

 

REMINDER!!! Next Monday, October 21st--EARLY RELEASE MONDAY

Students will be dismissed at 12:55pm.  SACC is open and students requiring supervision like last month will be staying until 3:55.  

The Chili Cook off--THIS THURSDAY! Bring in your best or most creative homemade chili for an evening of fun and prizes!  We will have a craft table, a chili inspired game with prizes and of course our chili cook-off contest!  There will be a $150 Haven Pizzeria gift card to 1st prize along with other great prizes.  The more entries the more fun so please bring in your favorite chili!  If you don't want to cook, come volunteer; there are some easy jobs we need help with to make this happen.  ALL are welcome, you do not have to sign up to come eat chili and join the fun!  JOIN US!

 

Sign up below!

BVES Students, Families & Staff: 2024 Annual Chili Cook-Off! (signupgenius.com)

Attendance Matters!

Research shows that missing 10 percent of the school, or about 18 days in most school districts, negatively affects a student’s academic performance. That’s just two days a month and that’s known as chronic absence.

 

Belle View is gearing up for a "Fall into Great Attendance" Challenge for November!  Stay Tuned for more details!  You child will hear all about this from their teacher and our daily news show.

From our Family Liaison, Mrs. Garcia

Thank you to all the parents who joined us for our first Family Coffee & Conversation on Friday, September 24. We would love to learn more about what topics you would like to see presented in future Family Coffees.  Please complete this short Family Engagement Survey to share your ideas!

Please join us for our next Family Coffee & Conversation on Thursday, October 24th from 5:30-6:30pm in the library.  We will be talking about how you can help support student learning at home. Learn ideas for getting organized, promoting independence, and motivating your students. We will talk about ways to encourage reading and play learning games at home. Tips for parent-teacher conferences will also be discussed. Spanish interpretation will be provided. Let us know you can come by signing up here.  Questions? Contact Amy Garcia, Family Liaison, [email protected], 571-501-8170.

Fun Run is only 10 Days Away!!!

This is our PTA's most important fundraising event of the year is coming on Thursday, October 24th!  The money is used for field trips, curriculum, school improvements, assemblies, and more!

Register NOW!  Donations collected online through October 27th. 

 First Register or re-Login to your parent dashboard and complete your child’s student webpage with a PICTURE at com. School Identifier: 5da0cdd5d6344

1. Make an online donation using the red Donate button right away
2. Share with friends and family, they want to help!
   • Send 10-15 emails and/or text messages
   • Post Facebook or Twitter
   • Help your child reach their goal in 24/48 hours

What's Happening?

Unity Day-Wednesday, Oct.16th--Wear Orange!

Thursday, Oct. 17-Chili Cook Off 

Early Release-Monday, Oct 21-12:55 pm

Thursday, Oct. 24-Fun Run-All Day

Thursday, Oct 24-Family Coffee-5:30 pm 

Thursday, Oct. 31 Story Book Character Day (Dress like a book character-no masks or weapons) and 2 hour end of quarter early release. Dismissal at 1:55.

Friday, Nov.1st-No School Diwali/All Saints Day

PTA Updates

Join the PTA!

Sign Up Online!

October 17th Chili Cook Off BVES Students, Families & Staff: 2024 Annual Chili Cook-Off! (signupgenius.com)

October 24th Fun Run--Flyers coming home in Wednesday Folders! Get a head start: 

1. First Register or re-Login to your parent dashboard and complete your child’s student webpage with a PICTURE at com. School Identifier: 5da0cdd5d6344
2. Make an online donation using the red Donate button right away
3. Share with friends and family, they want to help!
   • Send 10-15 emails and/or text messages
   • Post Facebook or Twitter
   • Help your child reach their goal in 24/48 hours

 

Weekly Staff/Teacher Feature

Name: Trevor Nordquist

Position: Intellectual Disabilities Teacher

Years in FCPS/Education: 2nd year with FCPS, 5th year in Education

Interest/hobbies: Sports, traveling, vegan cooking

Favorite Children’s Book: "Moomin"

6701 Fort Hunt Rd, Alexandria, VA 22307 | Main Office: 703-660-8300

Attendance: 703-660-8383 | Web | Facebook | Instagram

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

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

A Message from the Principal

Hello BVES Families, 

As we kick off a very busy month at Belle View, I would like to take a moment to share that your students will be learning about Hispanic Heritage Month and the contribution that many Latinos have brought to our culture, arts, music, sports, and politics. 

Thank you to all who were able to attend our October PTA meeting, we were lucky to have Ms. Sheckels share about the SEL (Social Emotional Learning) curriculum and her plans for Unity Day on October 16th. 

October and November also kick off the start of parent-teacher conferences. Your child's teacher will send out sign up links for conference.  We welcome those conversations to discuss student growth and progress, behavior and effort concerns or celebrations and quarterly assessments. 

Also, next Monday, October 14th is a student holiday.  Staff will be having a staff development day. 

Proud Principal, 

Katie Pluntke 

 

Free Immunizations for All FCPS Students

Safeway Pharmacy will be providing immunizations for all FCPS students at no cost! Parents or guardians may schedule an appointment and provide consent for their student(s). The immunization clinics are being held at Frost Middle School on:  

• Tuesday, October 8, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
• Saturday, October 12, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Students under the age of 19, with a scheduled appointment and parental consent, must be accompanied by their parent, guardian, or another adult over the age of 19. 

Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are highly encouraged to avoid wait times. A parent or guardian must accompany walk-in students under the age of 19 in order to provide consent.  

Transportation services are also available. Please visit our Immunization Resources webpage for details. 

Parents may learn more about this Safeway Pharmacy and other immunization resources and FCPS school-required immunizations

REMINDER!!! Monday, October 21st--EARLY RELEASE MONDAY

Students will be dismissed at 12:55pm.  SACC is open and students requiring supervision like last money will be staying until 3:55.  

The Chili Cook Off is Back! Bring in your best or most creative homemade chili for an evening of fun and prizes!  We will have a craft table, a chili inspired game with prizes and of course our chili cook-off contest!  There will be a $150 Haven Pizzeria gift card to 1st prize along with other great prizes.  The more entries the more fun so please bring in your favorite chili!  If you don't want to cook, come volunteer; there are some easy jobs we need help with to make this happen.  ALL are welcome, you do not have to sign up to come eat chili and join the fun!  JOIN US!

 

Sign up below!

BVES Students, Families & Staff: 2024 Annual Chili Cook-Off! (signupgenius.com)

From our Family Liaison, Mrs. Garcia

Thank you to all the parents who joined us for our first Family Coffee & Conversation on Friday, September 24. We would love to learn more about what topics you would like to see presented in future Family Coffees.  Please complete this short Family Engagement Survey to share your ideas!

Please join us for our next Family Coffee & Conversation on Thursday, October 24th from 5:30-6:30pm in the library.  We will be talking about how you can help support student learning at home. Learn ideas for getting organized, promoting independence, and motivating your students. We will talk about ways to encourage reading and play learning games at home. Tips for parent-teacher conferences will also be discussed. Spanish interpretation will be provided. Let us know you can come by signing up here.  Questions? Contact Amy Garcia, Family Liaison, [email protected], 571-501-8170.

Fun Run! October 24th

This is our PTA's most important fundraising event of the year!  The money is used for field trips, curriculum, school improvements, assemblies, and more!

Register NOW!  Donations collected online through October 27th. 

 First Register or re-Login to your parent dashboard and complete your child’s student webpage with a PICTURE at com. School Identifier: 5da0cdd5d6344

1. Make an online donation using the red Donate button right away
2. Share with friends and family, they want to help!
   • Send 10-15 emails and/or text messages
   • Post Facebook or Twitter
   • Help your child reach their goal in 24/48 hours

What's Happening?

Indigenous People Day-Monday, Oct. 14-No School

Unity Day-Wednesday, Oct.16th--Wear Orange!

Thursday, Oct. 17-Chili Cook Off 

Early Release-Monday, Oct 21-12:55 pm

Thursday, Oct. 24-Fun Run-All Day

Thursday, Oct 24-Family Coffee-5:30 pm 

Thursday, Oct. 31 Story Book Character Day (Dress like a book character-no masks or weapons) and 2 hour end of quarter early release. Dismissal at 1:55.

Friday, Nov.1st-No School Diwali/All Saints Day

PTA Updates

Join the PTA!

Sign Up Online!

October 17th Chili Cook Off BVES Students, Families & Staff: 2024 Annual Chili Cook-Off! (signupgenius.com)

October 24th Fun Run--Flyers coming home in Wednesday Folders! Get a head start: 

1. First Register or re-Login to your parent dashboard and complete your child’s student webpage with a PICTURE at com. School Identifier: 5da0cdd5d6344
2. Make an online donation using the red Donate button right away
3. Share with friends and family, they want to help!
   • Send 10-15 emails and/or text messages
   • Post Facebook or Twitter
   • Help your child reach their goal in 24/48 hours

 

Weekly Staff/Teacher Feature

Name: Jennifer Skaggs

Position: High Impact TuroMath Support

Years in FCPS/Education:5-ish for FCPS/24 total

Interest/hobbies:Traveling, Reading, playing around on my Cricut, watching NFL, food, dogs

Favorite Children’s Book: Hatchet

6701 Fort Hunt Rd, Alexandria, VA 22307 | Main Office: 703-660-8300

Attendance: 703-660-8383 | Web | Facebook | Instagram

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

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

A Message from the Principal

6Hello BVES Families, 

It is hard to believe we are headed into October already!  We have had a wonderful first 6 weeks of school.  We have so much learning going on!  Teachers have implemented routines and procedures and are digging into their first units in our new Virginia Literacy Act Benchmark Basel Reading Program. 

Thank you to all who were able to attend our virtual AAP curriculum night this past Thursday, we are so lucky to have Ms. Betz at the helm!  Also, thank you to all who attended our First Family Coffee Hour last Friday morning. It was a great time to learn about how our family liaison and school counselors can help support families and students at Belle View.

Please note, this week is a little out of the ordinary.  We will not have school for students on Thursday or Friday due to Rosh Hashanah and a teacher work day.  We will welcome the students back on Monday, October 8th. 

Shanah Tovah to all who celebrate!

Proud Principal, 

Katie Pluntke 

 

Immunizations Required-TODAY!!!!

*REMINDER*!  All students must be fully immunized  by September 30th.  Those students who are out of compliance will be sent home. Please see the FCPS Immunization Requirements

Parents/Caregivers of students who are currently out of compliance have received individual Talking Points message.

Not sure?  Please contact Betsy Ramos in the main office at 703-660-8202.

 

The Chili Cook Off is Back! Bring in your best or most creative homemade chili for an evening of fun and prizes!  We will have a craft table, a chili inspired game with prizes and of course our chili cook-off contest!  There will be a $150 Haven Pizzeria gift card to 1st prize along with other great prizes.  The more entries the more fun so please bring in your favorite chili!  If you don't want to cook, come volunteer; there are some easy jobs we need help with to make this happen.  ALL are welcome, you do not have to sign up to come eat chili and join the fun!  JOIN US!

 

Sign up below!

BVES Students, Families & Staff: 2024 Annual Chili Cook-Off! (signupgenius.com)

Join Our 10-Week Parent Project Workshop!

We are excited to offer a free 10-week course designed to empower families and transform teens. Through this program, parents will gain tools to:

1. Build a positive relationship with their child.
2. Prevent or intervene in alcohol and drug use, disruptive behavior at home, and gang affiliation.
3. Explore concrete solutions for active supervision.

This workshop is designed to equip parents with the skills needed to raise their children with love, structure, and consistency, while also addressing the challenges of modern parenting such as social media influence, electronics, and sex trafficking. Topics covered include:

• Giving lots of love to your children.
• Implementing structure and consistency.
• Establishing age-appropriate rules.
• Stopping destructive behavior and arguments with kids.
• Alcohol and drug prevention.
• Gang prevention.
• Handling electronics and the dangers of social media.

  English Session Information:

• When: Tuesdays, October 1 – December 10, 2024
• Time: 6:00 p.m. (Dinner) | 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. (Workshop)
• Where: Hybla Valley ES Library
• Childcare: Provided in the Gym

To register for the English session, click here.

For more information, contact:

• Christina Hunt: 571-424-4220 | [email protected]
• Katie Bansinski: 703-313-3732 | [email protected]

  Sesión en Español:

Estamos ofreciendo un taller gratuito de 10 semanas diseñado para empoderar a las familias y transformar a los adolescentes. Obtendrán herramientas para aprender a:

1. Construir una relación positiva con su hijo.
2. Prevenir o intervenir en el consumo de alcohol y drogas, comportamiento destructivo en el hogar y afiliaciones a pandillas.
3. Explorar soluciones concretas para la supervisión activa.

Este taller está diseñado para brindar a los padres las habilidades necesarias para criar a sus hijos con amor, estructura y consistencia, abordando los desafíos actuales como la influencia de las redes sociales, el uso de electrónicos y el tráfico de personas.

Información de la Sesión en Español:

• Cuándo: Martes, 8 de octubre – 17 de diciembre, 2024
• Hora: 6:00 p.m. (Cena) | 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. (Taller)
• Dónde: Hybla Valley ES Cafetería
• Cuidado de niños: Proporcionado en el Gimnasio

Para inscribirse en la sesión en español, haga clic aquí.

Para más información, comuníquese con:

• Rosa Rapavi: 571-424-9148 | [email protected]
• Arlene Tunon: 571-363-0340 | [email protected]

 

FANtastic Times Family Park Visit 

Sunday, October 6, 2024 9AM-11AM

Clemyjontri Park 6317 VA-193, McLean, VA 22101

In partnership with Fairfax County Park Authority, Therapeutic Recreation Services invites you to a Free Family Park Visit event. Come enjoy this unique playground where children of all abilities can play side-by-side.  Socialize, learn about upcoming events, and see what the county has to offer! Please RSVP to confirm your reserved spots by Thursday, October 3, 2024 by emailing [email protected] or call 703-324-5532.

Headphones Needed!!

THANK YOU!!  We have received nearly 70 pairs.  Our goal is 100.  

If you can donate a pair or two, we would appreciate it!  Feel free to drop off in the office or send in to your student's teacher. 

Koss KPH7G Portable On-Ear Headphone with Adjustable Headband - Green, 8.7 x 6.2 x 2.0 https://a.co/d/5ie1U3E

What's Happening?

Rosh Hashanah-Thursday, October 3rd-NO SCHOOL

Teacher Work Day, Friday, October 4th-NO SCHOOL

Indigenous People Day-Monday, Oct. 14-No School

Thursday, Oct 17-Chili Cook Off 

Thursday, Oct 24-Fun Run 

PTA Updates

Join the PTA!

Sign Up Online!

October 17th Chili Cook Off BVES Students, Families & Staff: 2024 Annual Chili Cook-Off! (signupgenius.com)

October 24th Fun Run--Flyers coming home in Wednesday Folders! Get a head start: 

1. First Register or re-Login to your parent dashboard and complete your child’s student webpage with a PICTURE at com. School Identifier: 5da0cdd5d6344
2. Make an online donation using the red Donate button right away
3. Share with friends and family, they want to help!
   • Send 10-15 emails and/or text messages
   • Post Facebook or Twitter
   • Help your child reach their goal in 24/48 hours

 

Weekly Staff/Teacher Feature

Name: Mary Frances Daly

Position: Librarian

Years in FCPS/Education:20 years in education, 12th year in FCPS, and 1st year at Belle View

Interest/hobbies: playing tennis, chauffeuring my three boys, road trips, and reading

Favorite Children’s Book:

Creepy Carrots and Creepy Pair of Underwear

6701 Fort Hunt Rd, Alexandria, VA 22307 | Main Office: 703-660-8300

Attendance: 703-660-8383 | Web | Facebook | Instagram

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

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

A Message from the Principal

Hello BVES Families, 

Thank you to all families that were able to join us for Back to School Night.  I hope you had a great evening learning about grade level content, classroom expectations, and all things Belle View Elementary.  I would like to give an extra thank you to our amazing PTA for sharing the budget and familiarizing everyone with all the awesome thing our funds go towards each year!

We will be kicking off "Blue Star Welcome Week" today! Thank you and your family for your service.  

Proud Principal, 

Katie Pluntke 

 

Immunizations Required!!

*REMINDER*!  All students must be fully immunized  by September 30th.  Those students who are out of compliance will be sent home. Please see the FCPS Immunization Requirements

Parents/Caregivers of students who are currently out of compliance have received individual Talking Points message.

Not sure?  Please contact Betsy Ramos in the main office at 703-660-8202.

 

Blue Star Welcome Week-Saturday, September 21-Sunday, September 29 

Blue Star Welcome Week was created to recognize the 600,000 military families who move to new communities each year, while raising awareness and building support for military families across the country. There are approximately 14,500 military-connected students enrolled in Fairfax County Public Schools.

Here at Belle View we have 24 military connected students. We extend a warm welcome to the school year to all our new and returning military connected families! Thank you for your service. We are so glad you and your family are Belle View Bobcats!

 If you are a military-connected family, send a photo of you and your student to Charity Risko ([email protected]) so we can celebrate your service and dedication.

 

Martha Washington Library, 6614 Fort Hunt Rd, welcomes military families on Saturday, September 21, 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Stop by anytime during the open house for fun activities and information about the library. Check out the Blue Star Welcome Week page Ways to Welcome a Military Family for ideas on welcoming military families to our community.

 

For assistance or questions about how our military-connected families are supported in FCPS, please email Family and School Partnerships at [email protected].

 

 

Advanced Academics (AAP)Curriculum Night-This Thursday!

 

Learn about the Advanced Academic Programs (AAP) elementary continuum of services by reading the AAP Newsletter in English or Spanish.

Our Advanced Academic Resource Teacher, Abby Betz, will hold a virtual information meeting on September 26th at 6:00 pm to provide families with an overview of the Advanced Academic Programs (AAP) elementary continuum of services.  If you are interested in attending this meeting, click here to register.  After you register for the session, your registration will need to be approved, and you will then receive a link to enter the Zoom session.

Family Coffee & Conversation on Friday, September 27 from 9:30-10:30am in the Cafeteria.

Please join us to connect with other Belle View families and for Q & A with Principal Pluntke. Meet our School Counselor and Family Liaison and learn how you can stay informed and get involved to make your student’s year a success! Spanish interpretation will be available. Please let us know you plan to come by completing this form. Questions? Contact Amy Garcia, Family Liaison, [email protected], call/text 571-501-8170.

 

Headphones Needed!!

We are in need of headphones! Students use headphones daily for computer based programs and interventions, as well as for testing!

If you can donate a pair or two, we would appreciate it!  Feel free to drop off in the office or send in to your student's teacher. 

Koss KPH7G Portable On-Ear Headphone with Adjustable Headband - Green, 8.7 x 6.2 x 2.0 https://a.co/d/5ie1U3E

 

Family Life Education Instructional Program Information

 

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) provides a comprehensive, sequential Family Life Education (FLE) program for students in grades kindergarten through grade twelve.  Instruction is seen as a partnership among parents and guardians, the school, and the community in supporting the learning essential to the development of strong families, positive relationships, and a healthy community.

Parents/guardians may choose to opt their child out of all or part of the Family Life Education program.  Students who are opted out are provided with age-appropriate, nonpunitive alternative health instruction, and every effort is made to foster respect for family choices.  If you wish to opt your child out of all or part of FLE for this school year, opt out forms are available in Parent Digital Consent.  Paper opt-out forms are available from your child’s school.  Students receiving special education services and accessing modified curriculum will receive a printed opt-out form for modified FLE lessons. 

Detailed grade-level program descriptions are available online at Elementary (K-6) , Middle School (7-8) , and High School (9-12). FLE grade level-specific lessons and media that FCPS has streaming rights for are available for parents online in Schoology.  Parents/guardians login to Schoology using the same username and password as their Student Information System (SIS) Parent account.  Grade level-specific lessons are also available at the City of Fairfax Regional Library (this location does not have media).  Grade level-specific lessons and media that is not streamed online are available for review at your child’s school library.  Due to copyright permissions, we are unable to stream all media online.

Program questions may be addressed at your child’s school or by contacting Instructional Services at 571-423-4550 or by email to [email protected].

What's Happening?

Family Coffee-Friday, September 27th at 9:30am in the Cafeteria.

Rosh Hashanah-Thursday, October 3rd-NO SCHOOL

Teacher Work Day, Friday, October 4th-NO SCHOOL

PTA Updates

Join the PTA!

Sign Up Online!

October 17th Chili Cook Off

October 24th Fun Run

Weekly Staff/Teacher Feature

Name: Chelsea Mahan

Position: 4th Grade

Years in FCPS/Education: 11 years in Fairfax County and 9th year at Belle View. Penn State Alum!

Interest/hobbies: Spending time with family and friends, playing board games, walking with my beagle (Crosby) and baby (Brooks), and traveling!

Favorite Children’s Book: Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper

6701 Fort Hunt Rd, Alexandria, VA 22307 | Main Office: 703-660-8300

Attendance: 703-660-8383 | Web | Facebook | Instagram

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

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

A Message from the Principal

Hello BVES Families, 

TODAY IS OUR FIRST EARLY RELEASE MONDAY!! Dismissal is at 12:55.  See schedule below if you indicated a childcare hardship.

Did you know we have a live new show each day at the end of the school day?  Our 6th grade news anchors share lunch menus, weather, sports, current events, birthdays and more!

We look forward to seeing you at Back to School Night on Thursday!  This is a wonderful night for parents to get information about curriculum overviews, daily schedules, class expectations, and sign up for parent conferences.  See you there!

Early Release Monday: 12:55pm Dismissal on September 16

We will have our first 12:55pm dismissal on Monday, September 16. There are some students who have a childcare hardship and will be supervised at school until 3:55pm. For those students, there will be a second dismissal at that time.

Please make sure your child knows how they are going home that Monday.

Dismissal 1 will be at 12:55pm. Students whose families are using this dismissal time will go home by Kiss & Ride, walking or riding the bus.

Dismissal 2 will be at 3:55pm for those students whose families indicated that supervision was needed. Again, there will be a Kiss & Ride, walkers dismissal, SACC and bus service at this time. 

Thank you in advance for your flexibility and communication. If you have any questions and/or changes to your plan for September 16, we need to know them now. Please contact us at 703-660-8300.

 

*REMINDER*!  All students must be fully immunized  by September 30th.  Those students who are out of compliance will be sent home.  Immunization Requirements 

Parents/Caregivers of students who are currently out of compliance have received individual Talking Points message.

Not sure?  Please contact Betsy Ramos in the main office at 703-660-8202.

 

Blue Star Welcome Week-Saturday, September 21-Sunday, September 29 

Blue Star Welcome Week was created to recognize the 600,000 military families who move to new communities each year, while raising awareness and building support for military families across the country. There are approximately 14,500 military-connected students enrolled in Fairfax County Public Schools.

Here at Belle View we have 24 military connected students. We extend a warm welcome to the school year to all our new and returning military connected families! Thank you for your service. We are so glad you and your family are Belle View Bobcats!

 If you are a military-connected family, send a photo of you and your student to Charity Risko ([email protected]) so we can celebrate your service and dedication.

 

Martha Washington Library, 6614 Fort Hunt Rd, welcomes military families on Saturday, September 21, 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Stop by anytime during the open house for fun activities and information about the library. Check out the Blue Star Welcome Week page Ways to Welcome a Military Family for ideas on welcoming military families to our community.

 

For assistance or questions about how our military-connected families are supported in FCPS, please email Family and School Partnerships at [email protected].

 

 

AAP Curriculum Night

Learn about the Advanced Academic Programs (AAP) elementary continuum of services by reading the AAP Newsletter in English or Spanish.

 

Our Advanced Academic Resource Teacher, Abby Betz, will hold a virtual information meeting on September 26th at 6:00 pm to provide families with an overview of the Advanced Academic Programs (AAP) elementary continuum of services.  If you are interested in attending this meeting, click here to register.  After you register for the session, your registration will need to be approved, and you will then receive a link to enter the Zoom session.

FAMILY COFFEE HOUR

 

Family Coffee & Conversation on Friday, September 27 from 9:30-10:30am in the Cafeteria.

Please join us to connect with other Belle View families and for Q & A with Principal Pluntke. Meet our School Counselor and Family Liaison and learn how you can stay informed and get involved to make your student’s year a success! Spanish interpretation will be available. Please let us know you plan to come by completing this form. Questions? Contact Amy Garcia, Family Liaison, [email protected], call/text 571-501-8170.

 

 

Family Life Education Instructional Program Information

 

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) provides a comprehensive, sequential Family Life Education (FLE) program for students in grades kindergarten through grade twelve.  Instruction is seen as a partnership among parents and guardians, the school, and the community in supporting the learning essential to the development of strong families, positive relationships, and a healthy community.

 

Parents/guardians may choose to opt their child out of all or part of the Family Life Education program.  Students who are opted out are provided with age-appropriate, nonpunitive alternative health instruction, and every effort is made to foster respect for family choices.  If you wish to opt your child out of all or part of FLE for this school year, opt out forms are available in Parent Digital Consent.  Paper opt-out forms are available from your child’s school.  Students receiving special education services and accessing modified curriculum will receive a printed opt-out form for modified FLE lessons. 

 

Detailed grade-level program descriptions are available online at Elementary (K-6) , Middle School (7-8) , and High School (9-12). FLE grade level-specific lessons and media that FCPS has streaming rights for are available for parents online in Schoology.  Parents/guardians login to Schoology using the same username and password as their Student Information System (SIS) Parent account.  Grade level-specific lessons are also available at the City of Fairfax Regional Library (this location does not have media).  Grade level-specific lessons and media that is not streamed online are available for review at your child’s school library.  Due to copyright permissions, we are unable to stream all media online.

 

Program questions may be addressed at your child’s school or by contacting Instructional Services at 571-423-4550 or by email to [email protected].

 

 

BACK TO SCHOOL NIGHT

6:00-6:30pm-Principal Welcome and PTA introductions in the Gym

6:40-7:15-First Classroom Session

7:20-7:55-Second Classroom Session 

Each session is a repeat.

 

3-Hour Early Release-Monday, September 16th

12:55pm dismissal

Back to School Night-Thursday, September 19th

6:00pm in the gym

Family Coffee-Friday, September 27th at 9:30am in the Cafeteria.

Rosh Hashanah-Thursday, October 3rd-NO SCHOOL

Teacher Work Day, Friday, October 4th-NO SCHOOL

PTA Updates

Join the PTA!

Sign Up Online!

Weekly Staff/Teacher Feature

Name: Charity Risko

Position: School-Based Technology Specialist

Years in FCPS/Education: 8 years, 5th in FCPS, 1st at Belle View

Interest/hobbies: being outdoors, camping, reading, gardening, board games, spending time with my family

Favorite Children’s Book: Matila

6701 Fort Hunt Rd, Alexandria, VA 22307 | Main Office: 703-660-8300

Attendance: 703-660-8383 | Web | Facebook | Instagram

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

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

A Message from the Principal

Hello BVES Families, 

I hope you had a fantastic weekend. Fall is in the air.  We had a fantastic short week last week. Many of our our littlest learners received laptop and/or iPad lessons--learning how to log in and how to access learning apps and programs. 

Picture day is TOMORROW!

Have a wonderful week!

Early Release Monday: 12:55pm Dismissal on September 16

We will have our first 12:55pm dismissal on Monday, September 16. There are some students who have a childcare hardship and will be supervised at school until 3:55pm. For those students, there will be a second dismissal at that time.

Please make sure your child knows how they are going home that Monday.

Dismissal 1 will be at 12:55pm. Students whose families are using this dismissal time will go home by Kiss & Ride, walking or riding the bus.

Dismissal 2 will be at 3:55pm for those students whose families indicated that supervision was needed. Again, there will be a Kiss & Ride, walkers dismissal, SACC and bus service at this time. 

Thank you in advance for your flexibility and communication. If you have any questions and/or changes to your plan for September 16, we need to know them now. Please contact us at 703-660-8300.

 

REMINDER!  All students must be fully immunized  by September 30th.  Those students who are out of compliance will be sent home.  Immunization Requirements 

 

FAMILY COFFEE HOUR

Come meet our family liaison, connect with other BVES families, and have some Q/A with Principal Pluntke.

Friday, September 27th--9:30-10:30 am 

 

BACK TO SCHOOL NIGHT

6:00-6:30pm-Principal Welcome and PTA introductions in the Gym

6:40-7:15-First Classroom Session

7:20-7:55-Second Classroom Session 

Each session is a repeat.

• STEAMOLOGY STEM FEST is a great opportunity for your family to enjoy free STEM activities including coding and robotics.  Check the flyer and website for opportunities to register a student, host a booth, or volunteer (especially students looking for service learning hours).
• When: Saturday, October 12, 2024, 11:00 am to 3:00 pm
• Where: Mount Vernon High School, 8515 Old Mt. Vernon Rd, Alexandria, VA 22309
• Cost: FREE
• More information: STEAMOLOGY FLYER and https://www.steamologyus.org/ 
• Student Registration: At this link

 

• 2024 NoVa Maker Faire: Maker Faire is a gathering of people who enjoy learning and love sharing what they can do. From engineers to artists to scientists to crafters, Maker Faire is a venue for these "makers" to show hobbies, experiments, and projects.  
• When: Sunday, October 20, 2024, 10 am to 4 pm
• Where: Alexandria City High School, 3330 King St., Alexandria, VA 22302
• Advance Purchase Tickets: $13 (Adult); $4 (Child, ages 2-18) (Prices higher at door.)
• More Information at: 2024 NoVa Maker Faire

 

Belle View Spirit Wear is available for purchase until September 13th.  Orders can be placed online.

 

3-Hour Early Release-Monday, September 16th

12:55pm dismissal

Back to School Night-Thursday, September 19th

6:00pm in the gym

Family Coffee-Friday, September 27th 9:30am in the Cafeteria.

PTA Updates

Join the PTA!

Sign Up Online!

Weekly Staff/Teacher Feature

Name: Meghan Trimer

Position: PE Teacher

Years in FCPS/Education: 6 years in FCPS/5 years at BV, Brockport State College alumni 

Interest/hobbies: Running, time with family/friends, attending/watching sports (GO BILLS!), country music fanatic

Favorite Children’s Book: The Very Hungry Caterpillar

6701 Fort Hunt Rd, Alexandria, VA 22307 | Main Office: 703-660-8300

Attendance: 703-660-8383 | Web | Facebook | Instagram

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Keeping students and staff safe is a priority for all of us. We have a crisis management and emergency preparedness plan for our school that is reviewed and updated regularly. Our plan includes procedures on how to respond to incidents such as fires and tornadoes. Students and staff regularly practice these drills every school year. We also practice lockdown drills.

A new Virginia Law (22.1-137.2) requires schools to notify parents at least 24 hours before a school practices a lockdown drill. However, we are not required to share the exact date and time of the drill. We are required to practice lockdown drills two times a year. FCPS lockdown drills do not include any type of active shooter scenario training, they are instruction and classroom based.

We will conduct a lockdown drill at our school tomorrow. Our kindergarten students are exempt from mandatory participation in lockdown drills during the first 60 days of the school year. They will participate in our second and final drill later this school year.

Additional information on our lockdown drill program to include parent tips and FAQs can be found on the Emergency Planning and Crisis Response web page. After reviewing this content, you should discuss the value of these safety drills with your child.

Keeping our school safe and secure for all students and staff involves the participation of the entire school community, and we thank you for your help to keep our school safe. 

Sincerely, 

Katie Pluntke

Principal

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A Message from the Principal

We have had another great week at the View! Ms. Lehner and I have gotten into a upper grade level classrooms to talk about Students Rights and Responsibilities (SRR) and will finish up the lower grade level presentations this coming week.  Please ask your child what a responsibility is verses what is a right is.

Our 4-6 grade students had a fantastic time seeing the West Potomac High School marching band and Orchestra last Thursday.  We have a ton of Bobcat alumni representing in the WPHS music department!  

We hope you all had an amazing Labor Day weekend!  

EARLY RELEASE MONDAYS-REQUIRED SURVEY

If you have not already done so, please fill out this Early Release Monday survey for each of your Belle View Students in your household. 

Dismissal on those days is 12:55pm.  Our first early release day is September 16, followed by October 21.

REMINDER!  All students must be fully immunized  by September 30th.  Those students who are out of compliance will be sent home.  Immunization Requirements 

 

The Fairfax County Public Schools Family Resource Center is a great resource for all FCPS families. The Family Resource Center has many offerings including webinars, digital resources, a resource library and one-on-one consultations. 

 

The Family Resource Center’s September Webinars are now registering! Webinars are online and free. If you need assistance registering online please contact the Family Resource Center by phone 703-204-3941 or email: [email protected]. Translators are available if requested 2 weeks in advance. Recordings of the webinars are available after the event at https://www.fcps.edu/frc.

 

September Webinars include:

• Simple Strategies for Sibling Support Sept 6, 2024, 10-11:30 a.m.
• Back-to-School Toolkit: Proven Systems for Solving Disorganization, Procrastination, and Missed Deadlines with Ann Dolin Sept 13, 2024 10-11 a.m.
• The New Virginia Alternate Assessment Program (VAAP) Participation Decision-Making Tool: Information for Families of Students With Disabilities Sept 18, 2024 6:30-8 p.m. OR Sept 19, 2024 10-11:30 a.m.
• Setting Limits and Dealing With Dramatic Resistance Sept 20, 2024, 10-11:30 a.m.
• Nurturing Adolescent Growth: A Comprehensive 4-Part Series on Teen Development and Well-Being 9/27/24 - Part 1: Understanding Adolescent Development: The Physical, Emotional, and Cognitive Changes in Teens Sept 27, 2024 10-11:30am

• STEAMOLOGY STEM FEST is a great opportunity for your family to enjoy free STEM activities including coding and robotics.  Check the flyer and website for opportunities to register a student, host a booth, or volunteer (especially students looking for service learning hours).
• When: Saturday, October 12, 2024, 11:00 am to 3:00 pm
• Where: Mount Vernon High School, 8515 Old Mt. Vernon Rd, Alexandria, VA 22309
• Cost: FREE
• More information: STEAMOLOGY FLYER and https://www.steamologyus.org/ 
• Student Registration: At this link

 

• 2024 NoVa Maker Faire: Maker Faire is a gathering of people who enjoy learning and love sharing what they can do. From engineers to artists to scientists to crafters, Maker Faire is a venue for these "makers" to show hobbies, experiments, and projects.  
• When: Sunday, October 20, 2024, 10 am to 4 pm
• Where: Alexandria City High School, 3330 King St., Alexandria, VA 22302
• Advance Purchase Tickets: $13 (Adult); $4 (Child, ages 2-18) (Prices higher at door.)
• More Information at: 2024 NoVa Maker Faire

Belle View Spirit Wear is available for purchase until September 13th.  Orders can be placed online.

 

3-Hour Early Release-Monday, September 16th

12:55pm dismissal

Back to School Night-Thursday, September 19th

6:00pm in the gym

PTA Updates

Join the PTA!

Sign Up Online!

Please join us on Thursday, September 19th for Back to School Night.

6:00pm - Principal Welcome and PTA Introductions

6:40pm-7:15pm - Session #1

7:20pm-7:55pm - Session #2

Sessions 1 and 2 are repeats

Reminders Weekly Staff/Teacher Feature

Name: Mary Sheckels

Position: School Counselor

Years in FCPS/Education: 4 years

Interest/hobbies: Baking, playing with my dog, trying new restaurants, reading, playing games, going to the beach, and watching my favorite TV shows and movies!

Favorite Children’s Book: The Good Egg

6701 Fort Hunt Rd, Alexandria, VA 22307 | Main Office: 703-660-8300

Attendance: 703-660-8383 | Web | Facebook | Instagram

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A Message from the Principal

What a wonderful first week at the "View"!  It was amazing to visit classrooms and witness class community activities as well as talk with students about routines and procedures to make their days here safe, fun, and full of learning.

EARLY RELEASE MONDAYS-REQUIRED SURVEY

If you have not already done so, please fill out this Early Release Monday survey for each of your Belle View Students in your household. 

Dismissal on those days is 12:55pm.  Our first early release day is September 16, followed by October 21.

 

Band and Strings Sign Up is Here!  Students in grades 4-6 have been learning about Band and Strings opportunities this week in music classes. Students in grades 4-6 can sign up for strings and students in grades 5-6 can sign up for band.  Students may only choose band OR strings.

Sign up for Band.

Sign up for Strings.

Deadline is Monday, September 2nd

Belle View Spirit Wear is available for purchase until September 13th.  Orders can be placed online.

 

3-Hour Early Release-Monday, September 16th

12:55pm dismissal

Back to School Night-Thursday, September 19th

6:00pm in the gym

PTA Updates

Join the PTA!

Sign Up Online!

Please join us on Thursday, September 19th for Back to School Night.

6:00pm - Principal Welcome and PTA Introductions

6:40pm-7:15pm - Session #1

7:20pm-7:55pm - Session #2

Sessions 1 and 2 are repeats

Reminders Weekly Staff/Teacher Feature

My name is Amy Garcia and I am the new Family Liaison at Belle View Elementary School. I am looking forward to getting to know you! Do you have any questions about Belle View, Parent Vue, Here Comes the Bus, early education programs, my school bucks or free lunch? I can help!

I can also help you fill out forms and arrange for a translator if you need one.  If your family needs help connecting with community resources for student vaccinations, healthcare, childcare, employment services, English classes, supplemental food, clothes or school supplies, please let me know.

My hours are Tuesday (9:30am-2:30pm), Wednesday (10:30am-3:30pm) and Friday (9:30am -2:30pm).

You can reach me by email: [email protected] office phone: 703-660-8306 or cell phone/text: 571-501-8170 or by sending me a talking points message. Thank you!

6701 Fort Hunt Rd, Alexandria, VA 22307 | Main Office: 703-660-8300

Attendance: 703-660-8383 | Web | Facebook | Instagram

Hello Bobcat Families, 

What a great day at Belle View today!  Today was an incredible day of "get to know you" games, school expectations and routines, as well as our first day of specials for all classes.

We wanted to share just a few arrival and departure procedures and updates:

-Kindergarten walkers will be dismissed from the front door (door #1). 

-Grades 1-6 walkers and Grades K-6 car riders will be dismissed to the bottom kiss and ride loop, next to door 2. If you park your car instead of waiting in line for kiss and ride, please walk to the bottom loop to unite with your child.

-Please do not drive your cars through our bus loop.  All car riders should arrive and depart through the kiss and ride line. 

-Please do not exit your vehicle.  Staff will assist in getting your child into your vehicle and can even help with buckling if necessary. 

See you all tomorrow!

Principal Pluntke 

 

 

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A Message from the Principal

Happy First Day of School!

We would like to take a moment to thank all the families and our amazing PTA for attending our Back to School Playground Event and Open House last week.  We were so happy to meet new students and families and to reconnect with those returning to Belle View again this year.

Teachers will be sending home weekly communication via email/TalkingPoints.  Clear and consistent communication is a priority to me and our grade level teams will be sharing updates, grade specific information, curriculum focuses, and other pertinent information. 

A few reminders for the first week:

Bus arrivals - All buses will pick up and drop off around the bus loop.  FCPS has an app for buses that are running late. "Here come the Bus" App

For the first week or two, I would anticipate some later bus drop offs. 

Kiss and Ride (Car Riders) - Parents who drop off need to enter the parking lot and take an immediate left, following the kiss and ride signs.  Each day, school staff will open car doors and greet your children.  Please do not have your child exit the vehicle without our school staff assisting.

Walkers - All walkers will exit the building and immediately head home.  Students are not allowed to stay in the school grounds after school without parental supervision. 

Kindergarten parents may walk students to class on the first day of school and through Wednesday, August 21st. 

As a reminder, there is no student drop off on Fort Hunt Road and during arrival and dismissal, there is no left turn out of the parking  lot. 

Week in Review

Follow us on social media and check out pictures from our school events!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BelleViewBobcats

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/belleviewbobcats/

 

 

Families can complete the Digital Resource Consent online this year in ParentVUE. Full approval of all resources or line by line approval is available. If you do not have a SIS ParentVUE account, you will not have access to this system. Submit a Parent Support Request ticket for a ParentVUE activation code. For questions about digital resources, please reach out to Charity Risko, our School-Based Technology Specialist ([email protected]).

Reminders

Limited Early Release Monday-September 16th--12:55 pm dismissal. Early Release Monday Details

REQUIRED PARENT SURVEY-3 hour release days-please fill out one survey per student at Belle View.

https://forms.gle/9QtV8QHE5fFsNLZQ9

Require Immunizations due for all students in Grades K-12 by September 30, 2024. Students will not be allowed to come to school after September 30th if immunizations requirements are not met.

FCPS Immunization Requirements/Resources

3-Hour Early Release-Monday, September 16th

12:55 dismissal

 

PTA Updates

Join the PTA!

Sign Up Here!

Please join us on Thursday, September 19th for Back to School Night.

6:00pm - Principal Welcome and PTA Introductions

6:40pm-7:15pm - Session #1

7:20pm-7:55pm - Session #2

Sessions 1 and 2 are repeats.

Weekly Staff/Teacher Feature

Title/Position: Kevin Calavan/Music Teacher

Years in FCPS/Education:1st Year in FCPS / 14th Year in Education

Interests/Hobbies: Spending time with family, travelling, watching baseball (Go Angels!), playing golf. 

Favorite Children's Book: The Going To Bed Book and Chicka Chicka Boom Boom

6701 Fort Hunt Rd, Alexandria, VA 22307 | Main Office: 703-660-8300

Attendance: 703-660-8383 | Web | Facebook | Instagram

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A Message from the Principal

Welcome to the first issue of the weekly "Bobcat Beat"!

As we welcome the students back to school, we wanted share some arrival and departure reminders for a smooth start and end to the school day. 

Bus arrivals-All buses will pick up and drop off around the bus loop.  FCPS has an app for buses that are running late. "Here come the Bus" App

For the first week or two, I would anticipate some later bus drop offs. 

Kiss and Ride (Car Riders)-Parent who drop off need to enter the parking lot and take an immediate left, following the kiss and ride signs.  Each day, school staff will open car doors and greet your children.  Please do not have your child exit the vehicle without our school staff assisting.

Walker-All walkers will exit the building and immediately head home.  Students are not allowed to stay in the school grounds after school without parental supervision. 

Kindergarten parents may walk students to class on the first day of school and through Wednesday, August 21st. 

As a reminder, there is no student drop off on Fort Hunt Rd. and during arrival and dismissal, there is not left turn out of the parking  lot. 

Week in Review

Our teachers and staff are ready to welcome your children back to Belle View for the 2024-2025 school year.

Teacher will be calling families today and tomorrow!

We are looking forward to our two meet and greet events this week! 

See you at the View!

Families can complete the Digital Resource Consent online this year in ParentVUE. Full approval of all resources or line by line approval is available. If you do not have a SIS ParentVUE account, you will not have access to this system. Submit a Parent Support Request ticket for a ParentVUE activation code. For questions about digital resources, please reach out to Charity Risko, our School-Based Technology Specialist ([email protected]).

 

Reminders

Popsicles and Popcorn on the Playground

Tuesday, August 13th

K-2 is at 3:00pm

3-6 is at 4:00pm

Open House

Thursday, August 15th

4-5pm

REQUIRED PARENT SURVEY-3 hour release days-please fill out one survey per student at Belle View.

https://forms.gle/9QtV8QHE5fFsNLZQ9

Require Immunizations due for all students in Grades K-12 by September 30, 2024. 

FCPS Immunization Requirements/Resources

First Day of School-Monday, August 19th

3-Hour Early Release-Monday, September 16th

PTA Updates

Please join us on Thursday, September 19th for Back to School Night.

6:00-Principal Welcome and PTA Introductions

6:40-7:15-Session #1

7:20-7:55-Session #2

Session 1 and 2 are repeats.

Weekly Staff/Teacher Feature

Title/Position: (very proud) Principal

Years in FCPS/Education: 20 years (all up/down Fort Hunt Rd.)

Schools/Universities: University of New Hampshire, Lesley University, and University of Mary Washington.

Interests/Hobbies: Reading, taking walks with friends, listening to true crime podcasts, spending time with family and friends, shopping with my daughter Julia, and going to concerts.

Favorite Children's Book: "The Relatives Came" By Cynthia Rylant

6701 Fort Hunt Rd, Alexandria, VA 22307 | Main Office: 703-660-8300

Attendance: 703-660-8383 | Web | Facebook | Instagram

Dear Belle View Families, 

The Early Release Mondays planned throughout the school year for elementary schools are essential to allow educators time for planning and professional development.  Students will be dismissed 3 hours early seven times throughout the school year and are encouraged to return home via their normal route.  However, we understand there may be a childcare hardship because of the early release Mondays for many of our families.  To resolve these concerns, student supervision will be available for families who need it. 

The following dates are planned for Early Release Mondays throughout the school year:

• September 16
• October 21
• November 18
• February 10
• March 10
• April 21
• May 12

To help plan for our school’s childcare needs during the early release Mondays, please complete this form: https://forms.gle/9QtV8QHE5fFsNLZQ9 for each of your children who are enrolled at Belle View Elementary. The form covers the first two early release Mondays, scheduled for September 16, 2024 and October 21, 2024. If you have multiple children, you will need to submit multiple forms. Staff will confirm the after school supervision plan for each student.

And as always, if you have questions, please reach out to us directly. 

Proud Principals, 

Katie Pluntke and Kristen Lehner

 

Good morning Belle View Families, 

It is hard to believe that our teachers and staff return this coming Monday!  We are very excited to start working as a collaborative staff and welcoming our student back to school.

This year, we have updated some social media platforms.  Feel free to join them for event reminders, school information, and general announcements.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BelleViewBobcats

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/belleviewbobcats/

Also, we have had a few families mention that they have not received our earlier communications. .  We have created an updated list with all primary enrolling parent emails automatically enrolled in "News You Choose".  If you have other family members wanting to enroll, please use the link below. 

https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/VAEDUFCPS/subscriber/new?qsp=VAEDUFCPS_1

Event Reminders:

Popsicles and Popcorn on the Playground- Come hang with friends and meet some teachers and staff.  Parents can sign up for our PTA and we will have PTA members available to answer questions. 

Tuesday, August 13th.

Grades K-2 from 3-4pm

Grades 3-6 from 4-5pm

Open House-Come meet your new teachers, drop off supplies, and see you new classroom. 

Thursday, August 15th from 4-5pm

We cannot wait to see you at the "View" next week!

Pound Principals,

Katie Pluntke and Kristen Lehner