FCPS

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletin en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى

 

Are you receiving Lane ES updates but no longer have students here? Now is the time to update your FCPS News You Choose here.

 

  The Lion’s Roar Special Summer Edition July 26, 2024

 

  Upcoming Events

• Monday, 8/5 – Popsicles on the Playground – new kindergarten families, Main Playground, 5:30 p.m.

• Monday, 8/5 – Popsicles on the Playground – 1st & 2nd grade families, Main Playground, 6:30 p.m.

• Tuesday, 8/6 – Popsicles on the Playground – 3rd & 4th grade families, Main Playground, 5:30 p.m.

• Wednesday, 8/6 – Popsicles on the Playground – 5th & 6th grade families, Main Playground, 6:30 p.m.

• Tuesday, 8/13 – Virtual Back-to-School Town Hall with Mrs. Prahl, 6:30 p.m. on Zoom in English

• Wednesday, 8/14 – In-person Back-to-School Town Hall with Mrs. Prahl, with Spanish interpretation, 6:30 p.m. in the cafeteria

• Thursday, 8/15 – Open House, 5 – 7 p.m. (See article below for specific alphabetical timeslots.)

• Monday, 8/19 – First day of 2024-2025 school year, 9:20 a.m.

• Monday, 8/19 – PTA First Day Coffee, 9:20 a.m.
• Thursday, 8/22 – Back to School Night, 6 – 8 p.m. (Family information sessions begin at 5:30; see article below for details.)
  

 

  In This Issue

• UPDATED Dates and Times for Popsicles on the Playground Next Month!
• Back-to-School Town Halls with Mrs. Prahl Coming Mid-August!
• Open House Thursday, August 15th, 5 – 7 p.m.
• Have You Done Your School-Supply Shopping Yet?
• Membership Has Its Benefits – Support the Lane PTA!
• Help Wanted: Seeking Special Education Support Staff and Dining Assistants
• FCPS ParentVUE Makes Accessing and Updating Student Information Easy
• Attention New Lane Families! Please Complete Your Enrollment as Soon as Possible!
• Make Sure Your Child’s Immunizations Are Up-to-Date; Exclusion Protocols for Noncompliance
• First Day of School Is Monday, August 19th!
• Back-to-School Night on Thursday, August 22nd, 6 – 8 p.m.
• Sign Up for Music Electives for Next Year Now!
• Limited Early Release Mondays for Elementary Schools

 

News & Notes

 

UPDATED Dates and Times for Popsicles on the Playground Next Month!

Based on feedback from families, we have compressed the schedule for these grade-level events into just two nights rather than spreading them out over four separate evenings. Here are the new dates and times, by grade level:

 

MONDAY, AUGUST 5th

• New kindergarten families, 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
• Grades 1 & 2 families, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 6th

• Grades 3 & 4 families, 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
• Grades 5 & 6 families, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

At our Popsicles on the Playground events, you can meet other families in your grade level (new and returning), enjoy a cool sweet treat courtesy of the PTA, and get ready for the new school year ahead. Student Ambassadors and some staff members will be on hand to help you get acquainted with the school and answer questions.

We could not hold these events without the support of our amazing Lane PTA! The group will be selling spiritwear and other items at these events, as well as signing families up for membership, both nights. If you might like to make a purchase, please be sure to bring cash or a credit/debit card. The PTA is also looking for volunteers to help. You can sign up here: https://signup.com/go/TrjCvcc.

Family liaison Melanie Crosby Hardy will offer tours of the school each evening at 4:30 p.m. or 5 p.m. You can sign up for the tour here.

 

 

Back-to-School Town Halls with Mrs. Prahl Coming Mid-August!

Virtual Town Hall in English via Zoom – Tuesday, August 13th 

Join us online to hear the latest news about the upcoming school year from Lane Principal Christine Prahl. We will have time for questions as well.

Join the Zoom session here.

 

In-Person Town Hall in Spanish in the Lane Library – Wednesday, August 14th

Mrs. Prahl and our new family liaison Andrea Howard will present this special back-to-school presentation for our Spanish-speaking families in person.

 

 

Open House Thursday, August 15th, 5 – 7 p.m.

Students and their families are invited to come to school during this time period to see their classrooms, meet their teachers, and reconnect with Lane friends.

Teachers will contact families of students in their classrooms by Wednesday, August 14th. Teacher assignments will also be posted in ParentVUE and will be available at Open House. Please do not contact the school office for this information.

In order to manage our capacity for this popular event, we have divided our school community into three groups, by student last name. (If you have children with different last names, your family may choose a session based on any of the names.)

• Last names that begin with A through H: 5 – 5:30 p.m.
• Last names that begin with I through Q: 5:45 – 6:15 p.m.
• Last names that begin with R through Z: 6:30 – 7 p.m.

Please feel free to bring your child's school supplies to this event so you won't have to worry about carrying them on the first day of school.

Parking will be limited, so please walk to school or carpool if possible.

 

Have You Done Your School-Supply Shopping Yet?

We are less than a month out from returning to school. The summer is flying by! If you haven’t yet bought your child’s school supplies, now is the time to do so. Lists for each grade are posted on our school website.

You can bring your child’s supplies when you attend Open House on Thursday, August 15th, or on the first day of school.

If you’d rather not deal with the shopping yourself, the Lane PTA has the answer – pre-packed school supply kits available for purchase from Campus Survival Kits. These kits are grouped by grade level and include all the items requested. See the flyer below or download it for prices and ordering information.

All pre-purchased kits will be delivered to the school on August 15th and placed in your child's classroom just in time for Open House. Orders are due by Wednesday, August 7th. If you have any questions about the Campus Survival Kits, please email [email protected].

If you need financial assistance with school supplies, please contact our family liaison, Melanie Crosby Hardy, at [email protected].

 

 

Membership Has Its Benefits – Support the Lane PTA!

As you can see from the article above and the great Restaurant Night at Bruster’s Ice Cream this week, it may be summer break but the Lane PTA is in full swing! They’re working hard at preparing all the fun things for this upcoming school year. All families are encouraged to join and support this nonprofit organization, led by a dedicated group of volunteers, that provides so much to our school and community.

The PTA received such a positive response to last year’s membership drive incentive that they've brought it back for round TWO! Every person who joins by Monday, August 5th, will be entered into a drawing for a $25 spiritwear gift card, just in time for the back-to-school spiritwear sale! On August 6th, they will draw one lucky parent AND one lucky teacher to receive $25 towards new Lane Lion spiritwear! Just wait until you see the new spiritwear additions this year – you’ll definitely want to add them to your wardrobe!

Click here to join today!

If you have questions about membership, please email [email protected]. All other questions can be sent to [email protected].

 

Help Wanted: Seeking Special Education Support Staff and Dining Assistants

Lane is currently looking to fill a few positions on our staff. For our special education support team, we need:

• a PHTA (Physical Health Training Attendant) to work with our students with intellectual disabilities, and
• a special education Instructional Assistant to work across programming in kindergarten through 6th grade.

These are both full-time positions.

We are also looking for some part-time dining assistants for our cafeteria. This job is 3.5 hours a day (approximately 10:45 a.m. to 2:15 p.m.), Monday through Friday. Duties include monitoring students, assisting them as they clean up and clean tables, and interacting with them in a positive way to assist them with their social skills.

We are looking for dedicated people who can be patient, caring, structured, and fair. Would you like to join our team? If so, please send your resume to our principal, Christine Prahl, at [email protected].

 

FCPS ParentVUE Makes Accessing and Updating Student Information Easy

The SIS ((Student Information System) ParentVUE Account is the FCPS secure solution for providing and accessing information about your child's attendance, class performance, and demographic data. It provides an additional way to communicate with your child's teacher. Customized for Elementary, Middle, and High School students, your SIS ParentVUE Account login credentials can also be used to access Schoology.

The Online Verification Update packet (OVU) allows enrolling parents to review and update phone numbers, emergency contacts, and health information (such as health conditions and immunizations) for students in kindergarten through 12th grade. Once you have signed into your ParentVUE account, simply select the “Student Info” tab and click on “Edit Information.”

If you need to set up your ParentVUE account, you can create one online via the FCPS ParentVUE Registration page. If you need help creating a SIS ParentVUE account, this video walks you through the steps. You can also find out more about SIS ParentVUE on the FCPS website.

If you need a new registration code, contact family liaison Melanie Crosby Hardy at [email protected].

 

Attention New Lane Families! Please Complete Your Enrollment as Soon as Possible!

If your family is joining our Lane community this year, please be sure to submit all required forms for registration as soon as possible. If you have questions, please contact our Student Information Assistant (SIA)/Registrar Jami O’Hagan at [email protected].

If you need to schedule an appointment with Mrs. O’Hagan to complete your registration, you can sign up here.

 

Make Sure Your Child’s Immunizations Are Up-to-Date; Exclusion Protocols for Noncompliance

The Code of Virginia § 22.1-271.2 requires all students to be immunized against certain communicable diseases in order to attend Fairfax County Public Schools. Immunizations keep children and the community protected from vaccine-preventable diseases.

Starting Monday, September 30th, students who have not provided proof of immunization will not be allowed to attend school.

You can check your child’s immunization compliance by accessing ParentVUE. Families of students with incomplete immunization records need to provide acceptable proof of immunization to their child's school as soon as possible. You can find the list of required immunizations on the General Registration Immunizations webpage.

 

If your child’s immunizations are incomplete, here's what you need to do:

• Get your child’s immunization record from one of these places:
  • Request immunization records for free through the Virginia Immunization Information System (VIIS).
  • If your child was immunized outside Virginia, get records from those states’ systems.
  • Request records from your healthcare provider. Some may charge for copies.
• Submit your child’s immunization record to your child’s school. Families should submit their child’s completed immunization records before September 30th.

Please visit FCPS’ website for more information, including how to access required immunizations. 

 

 

First Day of School Is Monday, August 19th!

On the first day, parents are welcome to bring their children into the building or meet them in the building if they ride the bus and then walk them to their classroom or hallway. Once the bell rings at 9:20, all adults are invited to attend the PTA’s First Day Coffee in the Cafeteria.

More information about first-day procedures and events will be sent out in mid-August.

 

 

Back-to-School Night on Thursday, August 22nd, 6 – 8 p.m.

Please make plans to join us for Back-to-School Night on Thursday, August 22nd from 6 to 8 p.m. This event is very important for parents and guardians, as it offers a chance to meet teachers and hear directly from them about plans for the year ahead and classroom policies.

We will offer two sessions during the evening so those with multiple children at Lane will be able to visit more classrooms. In addition, we will offer the following additional presentations you may wish to attend:

• Information on social/emotional learning and support, presented by our counselors, school psychologist, and social worker,
• Math and literacy information, presented by our math and literacy resource teachers,
• An orientation for new families, presented by our family liaisons.

Each session will be presented three times – at 5:30, 6:15, and 7 – so you can attend all three if you are interested.

Here is the full schedule for the event:

5:30 – 6 p.m.: Family Information Sessions

• Clinical Team (counselors, social worker, school psychologist) – Library
• Literacy and Math Resource Teachers – Cafeteria
• New Family Orientation with Family Liaisons – Location TBD

6 - 6:45 p.m.: Classroom Session 1 in individual classrooms

6:15 – 6:45 p.m.: Family Information Sessions

• Clinical Team (counselors, social worker, school psychologist) – Library
• Literacy and Math Resource Teachers – Cafeteria
• New Family Orientation with Family Liaisons – Location TBD

7 – 7:45 p.m.: Classroom Session 2 in individual classrooms

7 – 7:30 p.m.: Family Information Sessions

• Clinical Team (counselors, social worker, school psychologist) – Library
• Literacy and Math Resource Teachers – Cafeteria
• New Family Orientation with Family Liaisons – Location TBD

Please note that Back-to-School Night is designed for adults only and that childcare will not be available. If you bring your children with you, they will need to remain with you throughout the evening.

 

Sign Up for Music Electives for Next Year Now!

Attention Rising 4th, 5th, and 6th Graders! NOW is the time to sign up to learn how to play an instrument in Strings (grades 4, 5, 6) or Band (grades 5, 6 only) for next year! Lessons happen during the school day (during Specials) with a concert at the end of the year! Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of these AMAZING instrumental programs at Lane!

Students in 5th and 6th grade also have the opportunity to join Chorus for next year! Chorus lessons happen during the school day with two concert performances that happen during the school year. Students may choose an instrument AND Chorus. Sign up for Chorus now!

 

Limited Early Release Mondays for Elementary Schools

Providing an excellent education to all students and meeting individual student needs requires appropriate planning time for teachers. This means teachers need a dedicated block of time to prepare lessons, participate in professional development and training, and collaborate with peers. Demands on teacher time have increased dramatically since the pandemic. With the adoption of new textbooks, differentiated support plans for students, required professional development for the new Virginia Literacy Act, new reading and math Standards of Learning exams (SOLs) from the state, and other initiatives — teachers have a lot to do in addition to actually teaching! These demands require blocks of uninterrupted, in person, and collaborative time to plan.

With that in mind, FCPS has developed a divisionwide plan for seven three-hour early release days (Mondays) for elementary students in the 2024-25 school year (about one per month). They will start on September 16th. The additional scheduled dates for Lane are:

• October 21st
• November 18th
• February 10th
• March 10th
• April 21st
• May 12th.

We encourage all parents/caregivers to have their student take their normal route home (bus, walk, kiss and ride) on early dismissal days. However, we will ensure that every student has supervised enrichment activities at the school and returns home at the regular time if that is what works best for your family.

Activities are in development. For now, we know that:

• High-impact tutoring will be available for identified students.
• School Age Child Care (SACC) sites will provide supervision for currently enrolled SACC students.
• FCPS is working with Boys and Girls Clubs, STEM groups, Olympiads, math clubs, Scouts, and other organizations to provide coverage as well.
• Students may also attend PTA-sponsored clubs. Schools will work with the PTA to facilitate this option.

School staff who have already completed their required training or used their allotted planning time will assist with supervising students, and licensed educators at FCPS’ central office will also support this effort.

More information will be sent out after the school year begins.

 

7137 Beulah Street, Alexandria, VA 22315  |  Phone: 703.924.7700

Attendance: 703.924.7777  |  Web | Twitter

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletin en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى

  Surprise Summer PTA Restaurant Night Tonight and Tomorrow at Bruster's in Hilltop Village Center, 4 to 8 p.m.!

Craving a cool, creamy, sweet treat to end this summer evening? If so, grab everyone in your Lane Lions den and head to Bruster's Ice Cream in the Hilltop Village Shopping Center (6463 Old Beulah Street) tonight – Tuesday, July 23rd – and tomorrow night – Wednesday, July 24th – from 4 to 8 p.m.

Not only will you get to savor some great ice cream, you'll also make a donation to the school at the same time! Just mention Lane when you order so our school gets credit.

If you'd like to receive a FREE ice cream to cool down in this heat, consider being a celebrity scooper during either of these timeframes. Email [email protected] to find out more!

We hope to see you there!

7137 Beulah Street, Alexandria, VA 22315  |  Phone: 703.924.7700

Attendance: 703.924.7777  |  Web | Twitter

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletin en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى

  The Lion’s Roar Special End-of-Year Edition

 

June 13, 2024

 

The final days of the school year were filled with fun, friendship, and end-of-year traditions for all Lane Lions. Here's a look at some of the scenes from the past week.

 

PTA "Glow Party" Lights Up the Night on the Final Friday

Last Friday, the Lane PTA kicked off summer with its second annual "Glow Party" filled with mood lighting, music, and lots of cool dance moves.

 

Lane Lion Grads Walk the Hall Once More

On Tuesday, members of the Class of 2024 from several different high schools returned to their elementary school where it all began and paraded proudly through the halls of Lane. Many stopped by to visit favorite teachers, including Strings teacher, Mrs. Hicks.

 

Congratulations to Our 6th Grade Lions!

Our 6th graders celebrated their "graduation" from elementary school at a special Promotion Ceremony on Wednesday. We wish all of our 6th grade Lane Lions great success in middle school! Here are just a few pictures from that special event. 

 

Have a Great Summer, Lane Lions!

Yesterday at dismissal, students in all grades received celebratory waves, hugs, and applause as staff members sent them off to enjoy the summer.

  Upcoming Events

• Monday, 8/5 – Popsicles on the Playground – new kindergarten families, Main Playground, 7 p.m.

• Tuesday, 8/6 – Popsicles on the Playground – 1st & 2nd grade families, Main Playground, 7 p.m.

• Wednesday, 8/7 – Popsicles on the Playground – 3rd & 4th grade families, Main Playground, 7 p.m.

• Thursday, 8/8 – Popsicles on the Playground –5th & 6th grade families, Main Playground, 7 p.m.

• Tuesday, 8/13 – Virtual Back-to-School Town Hall with Mrs. Prahl, 6:30 p.m. on Zoom

• Wednesday, 8/14 – In-person Back-to-School Town Hall with Mrs. Prahl, with Spanish interpretation, 6:30 p.m. in the cafeteria

• Thursday, 8/15 – Open House (exact time TBD)

• Monday, 8/19 – First day of 2024-2025 school year, 9:20 a.m.

• Monday, 8/19 – PTA First Day Coffee, 9:20 a.m.

 

In This Issue

• Have a Great Summer!
• Save the Date for Back-to-School Summer and Fall Events!
• Sign Up for Music Electives for Next Year Now!
• Holidays/School Closures Next Week
• LGBTQIA+ Pride Month

 

 

News & Notes

 

 

Have a Great Summer!

We would like to wish all of our Lane Lion families a terrific summer vacation. It’s been a great school year, and our partnership with you was essential in making it successful.

To those students and families who are moving on, including our oldest lions who are moving up to middle school, we wish you all the best in your new adventures. Never forget: Once a Lane Lion, always a Lane Lion!

To those families who are returning to Lane next year, we look forward to seeing you when school resumes in August.

 

Save the Dates for Summer and Back-to-School Events!

We have started planning some community events for the summer and the school year ahead! Please be sure to put these events on your calendars if you’d like to attend.

 

Popsicle Playdates: Monday, August 5th through Thursday, August 8th, 7 – 8 p.m. on the Main Playground 

• Monday, August 5th – New kindergarten families
• Tuesday, August 6th – Grades 1 & 2
• Wednesday, August 7th – Grades 3 & 4
• Thursday, August 8th – Grades 5 & 6

 

Back-to-School Town Halls with Mrs. Prahl, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.

• Tuesday, August 13th – in English on Zoom
• Wednesday, August 14th – in person with Spanish interpretation

Open House – Thursday, August 15th (Exact times to be determined)

Students and their families are invited to come to school to see their classrooms, meet their teachers, and reconnect with Lane friends.

We are currently finalizing the exact times for families to attend this event. Stay tuned for updates!

Please note that special-education students who would prefer a less-crowded, less-intense Open House experience will be offered a separate window of time.

 

PTA First Day Coffee – Monday, August 19th, 9:20 – 10:30 a.m.

 

More details about these and other events will be sent out in the weeks ahead.

 

Sign Up for Music Electives for Next Year Now

Attention Rising 4th, 5th, and 6th Grade Families!

NOW is the time to sign up to learn how to play an instrument in Strings (grades 4, 5, 6) or Band (grades 5, 6 only) for next year! Lessons happen during the school day (during Specials) with a concert at the end of the year! Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of these AMAZING instrumental programs at Lane!

Students in 5th and 6th grade also have the opportunity to join Chorus for next year! Chorus lessons happen during the school day with two concert performances that happen during the school year. Students may choose an instrument AND Chorus. Sign up for Chorus now!

If you have questions, please reach out to the music teachers:

Amber Hicks, Strings, [email protected]
Ryan Woessner, Band, [email protected]
Grayson Crouch, Chorus, [email protected]
Stefan Griffin, Chorus, [email protected].

 

Holidays/School Closures Next Week

Fairfax County Public Schools and offices will be closed on both Monday and Wednesday next week in observance of two holidays, Eid al-Adha and Juneteenth.

Eid al-Adha, the “Feast of Sacrifice” observed on Monday, June 17th

Eid al-Adha, or the “Feast of Sacrifice,” is the second of two main holidays celebrated in Islam. 

Eid al-Adha signifies the willingness of the Prophet Ibrahim, known as Abraham in Christianity and Judaism, to sacrifice his son, Ismail, as ordered by Allah. It focuses on sacrifice, the pilgrimage to Mecca, and giving to those less fortunate. Learn more in this video from PBS Kids. “Eid Mubarak” to all who observe!

 

Juneteenth – Wednesday, June 19th

Juneteenth commemorates the day in 1865 that word of the Emancipation Proclamation and the end of the Civil War finally reached enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, effectively marking the end of slavery in the United States. Learn more about Juneteenth.

 

LGBTQIA+ Pride Month

In the month of June, we recognize the resilience and determination of the many individuals who are fighting to live freely and authentically. We stand with those facing an ongoing struggle against discrimination and injustice. This Pride Month, we affirm our obligation to uphold the dignity of all people. Each individual in our school community should feel valued for who they are and free to be their authentic self.

Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.

 

7137 Beulah Street, Alexandria, VA 22315  |  Phone: 703.924.7700

Attendance: 703.924.7777  |  Web | Twitter

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletin en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى

  The Lion’s Roar June 7, 2024

 

Under the Big Top - Kindergarten Style!

We kicked this last full week of school off with Lane's version of the Greatest Show on Earth - the Kindergarten Circus! Take a look at the amazing and entertaining acts that performed live for parents and friends, while the rest of the school watched a live stream.

 

 

The Sound of Music Continues

Last week we celebrated instrumental music with Band and Strings concerts. This week it was vocal music in the spotlight, as Lane's 5th and 6th grade Chorus students performed their Spring Concert, led by music teachers Mr. Griffin and Mr. Crouch. Congratulations to all of our talented music students!

  Upcoming Events

• Monday, 6/10 – SCA Spirit Day: Rainbow Day (each grade level will dress up in a specific color)
• Tuesday, 6/11 – SCA Spirit Day: Backwards/Inside-out Day
• Tuesday, 6/11 – PTA Restaurant Summer Send-Off at Sweet Frog in Kingstowne, 4 – 8 p.m.
• Wednesday, 6/12 – SCA Spirit Day: Lane Lion Spirit Day
• Wednesday, 6/12 – 6th Grade Promotion Ceremony, 9:30 a.m.
• Wednesday, 6/12 – Last day of school, early dismissal at 2:05 p.m.

 

 

In This Issue

• Last Day of School Is Wednesday, June 12th; Dismissal at 2:05 p.m.
• Yearbook Sales Update
• June Spirit Days Continue Next Week
• From the Shelves of the Lane Library: End-of-Year Library Information
• Sign Up for Music Electives for Next Year Now!
• June Is Caribbean American Heritage Month
• Save the Date for Back-to-School Summer and Fall Events!
• PTA News: Restaurant Night at Sweet Frog on Tuesday, June 11th
• Parent Resources: Summer mental wellness consultations, pediatric health fairs, and more!
• Community Events & Activities: Fairfax County Puzzle Hunt

 

 

News & Notes

 

Last Day of School Is Wednesday, June 12th; Dismissal at 2:05 p.m.

Although it’s hard to believe, next Wednesday – June 12th – is the last day of the 2023-2024 school year! We will dismiss two hours early that day at 2:05 p.m. Please be sure you have this schedule change on your calendar.

 

Yearbook Sales Update

All pre-ordered yearbooks were handed out in classrooms today. We have very few extra books available to purchase (fewer than 10). To fairly offer these books to students who would like them, we will sell the remaining copies by lottery on Monday morning.

If your child would like to buy a yearbook, please send $20 in cash (no big bills, please) to school on Monday morning in an envelope marked "Yearbook." A table will be set up near the bus lobby where students can drop off payment and put their name on the lottery list. At 10 a.m. we will draw names at random for the number of books we have. 

If your child's name is selected we will deliver the yearbook to the classroom. If your child is not selected, we will return the payment. 

 

June Spirit Days Continue Next Week

The SCA is sponsoring spirit days for all the days we are in school in June! Theme days this past week were really successful, with fashions that ranged from creative and fun to classy and fancy. Here’s a schedule for the remaining days next week. 

• Monday, June 10th: Rainbow Day – Each grade level will dress up in a specific color:
  • 6th grade – Red
  • 5th grade – Orange
  • 4th grade – Yellow
  • 3rd grade – Green
  • 2nd grade – Blue
  • 1st grade – Purple
  • Kindergarten – Rainbow.
• Tuesday, June 11th: Backwards/Inside-out Day – Dress exactly how that sounds.
• Wednesday, June 12th: Lane Lion Spirit Day – Wear your Lane Lion gear or blue and yellow or white for the last day of school and to support our 6th graders, who will have their Promotion Ceremony that morning.

We hope your child will participate!

 

From the Shelves of the Lane Library: End-of-Year Library Information

All student library materials are now overdue! Please do your best to find and return all outstanding items as soon as possible. If you would like a list of the items your child still needs to return, please contact Mrs. Chozick at [email protected].

As always, the library does not have fees for overdue books; however, families are expected to pay the replacement cost for books that are lost or returned damaged.

Thank you for supporting the library!

 

Sign Up for Music Electives for Next Year Now

Attention Rising 4th, 5th, and 6th Grade Families!

NOW is the time to sign up to learn how to play an instrument in Strings (grades 4, 5, 6) or Band (grades 5, 6 only) for next year! Lessons happen during the school day (during Specials) with a concert at the end of the year! Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of these AMAZING instrumental programs at Lane!

Students in 5th and 6th grade also have the opportunity to join Chorus for next year! Chorus lessons happen during the school day with two concert performances that happen during the school year. Students may choose an instrument AND Chorus. Sign up for Chorus now!

If you have questions, please reach out to the music teachers:

Amber Hicks, Strings, [email protected]
Ryan Woessner, Band, [email protected]
Grayson Crouch, Chorus, [email protected]
Stefan Griffin, Chorus, [email protected].

 

  June Is Caribbean American Heritage Month

June is Caribbean American Heritage Month. Caribbean immigrants have been contributing to the well-being of American society since its founding. The month-long observance promotes the rich culture and heritage of the Caribbean American people.

Caribbean American heritage includes a kaleidoscope of languages, customs, music, art, and cuisine that have enriched communities. Learn more about National Caribbean American Heritage Month here.

If your child is of Caribbean American heritage, we invite you to send in a picture to share with the school. Please send it to our family liaison, Melanie Crosby Hardy, at [email protected] by the end of the day on Monday, June 10th.

Save the Dates for Summer and Back-to-School Events!

We have started planning some community events for the summer and the school year ahead! Please be sure to put these events on your calendars if you’d like to attend.

Popsicle Playdates: Monday, August 5th through Thursday, August 8th, 7 – 8 p.m. on the main playground 

• Monday, August 5th – New kindergarten families
• Tuesday, August 6th – Grades 1 & 2
• Wednesday, August 7th – Grades 3 & 4
• Thursday, August 8th – Grades 5 & 6

 

Back-to-School Town Halls with Mrs. Prahl, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.

• Tuesday, August 13th – in English on Zoom
• Wednesday, August 14th – in person with Spanish interpretation

Open House – Thursday, August 15th (Exact times to be determined)

Students and their families are invited to come to school to see their classrooms, meet their teachers, and reconnect with Lane friends.

We are currently finalizing the exact times for families to attend this event. Stay tuned for updates!

Please note that special-education students who would prefer a less-crowded, less-intense Open House experience will be offered a separate window of time.

 

PTA First Day Coffee – Monday, August 19th, 9:20 – 10:30 a.m.

 

More details about these and other events will be sent out in the weeks ahead.

 

SOL Scores Posted in SIS ParentVUE

Families can find Standards of Learning (SOL) reports for spring testing in the SIS ParentVUE Documents section on or before the last day of school. Log in to your ParentVUE accountto access the following:

• For all students, the official SOL Score Report with overall and reporting category performance for all spring tests.
• For grade 3-8 students, the SOL Growth Parent Report shows performance over time for state reading and math tests completed this school year.

Visit the FCPS website for additional information about spring assessment reporting practices and timelines.

Need help creating a SIS ParentVUE account? This video walks through the steps. Find out more about SIS ParentVUE.

 

  PTA News

 

Thanks from the Lane PTA!

The Lane PTA would like to thank all the families for their support of its programs and events this year! The new Executive Board is already hard at work on planning more fun and educational programming for the year ahead. Stay tuned for information coming later in the summer!

 

Summer Send-Off Restaurant Night at Sweet Frog on Tuesday, June 11th, 4 to 8 p.m.

Start your summer off with a sweet treat from Sweet Frog in Kingstowne next Tuesday, June 11th, at the final PTA Restaurant Night of the school year. Sweet Frog is generously donating 35% of ALL sales between 4 and 8 p.m. to Lane!

 

 

Parent Resources

 

Virtual Mental Wellness Consultations

This summer, the FCPS Office of Intervention and Prevention Services will offer virtual Mental Wellness Consultations from Monday, June 24th, through Friday, August 2nd. Any FCPS parent or secondary student can schedule a 45-minute consultation with a school psychologist or social worker by phone or videoconference.

Parents of students in any grade level can request a consultation to receive guidance on how to support their child’s social, emotional, and academic success. Information about community resources will also be provided.

Middle or high school students can request a consultation to receive guidance and support for concerns related to anxiety, mood, behavior, peer or family interactions, or school transitions and changes. Strategies and tools can also be provided to address academic challenges such as organization and time management.

We encourage all families to take advantage of this service. Request a consultation or call and leave a message at 703-503-2520.

 

INOVA Back to School Pediatric Health Fairs

Inova Cares Clinic (ICC) will provide children ages 5+ with free school entrance physicals and immunizations at summer health fairs for children on Medicaid or who are uninsured. The clinics will take place 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on the following dates:

Saturday, June 29th, at ICC for Children - Manassas
Saturday, July 20th, at ICC for Children - Herndon
Saturday, August 17th, at ICC for Children - Falls Church

Appointments are required. No walk-ins will be allowed. Call 703-698-2550 for an appointment.

 

Summer Fun for All! Summer Camps and Adapted Recreation

The Family Resource Center (FRC) has a list of dozens of summer camps including general camps, camps for students with a variety of needs, and camps for children of military personnel.

They’ve also prepared a list of adapted resources, sorted by activity, that are inclusive for children and adults of various physical abilities.

Learn more by calling 703-204-3941, emailing [email protected], or visiting the FRC webpage.

  Summer Camp Opportunity for Strings Students!

SoCo Summer Strings is returning this summer! The camp will be hosted at South County Middle School weekdays from July 8th to 19th, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

The camp is open to all rising 5th through 9th grade students with at least one year of experience on the violin, viola, cello, or bass. Students will participate in two large ensemble rehearsals, an instrument-specific technique class, and a sectional each day.

You can find more information and registration for camp at www.schsorchestra.org/soco-summer-strings. Early registration is open until June 9th, so reserve your student’s spot soon!

 

Rec-PAC Is Now Registering for the Summer and Lane Will Be a Site!

Rec-PAC (Pretty Awesome Children), operated by Fairfax County Park Authority, is a six-week structured recreation program with emphasis on leisure skills designed for elementary school children.

Participants will have an opportunity to enjoy a wide variety of activities such as fun and fitness, indoor and outdoor games, team sports, nature, crafts, storytelling, sports festivals, talent shows and supervised play sessions. Each location has a ratio of 1 staff person to 18 participants. Lane will be a Rec-PAC site this summer.

Rec-PAC runs from Monday, June 24th through Thursday, August 1st. Each of the six weeks has its own theme with different themed activities happening throughout the week. You can sign your child up for any of the individual weeks or all of them!

Registration is now underway. Scholarships are available for families who qualify. You can find details in the Rec-PAC brochure.

 

Community Events & Activities

 

Fairfax County Hosts Its First Puzzle Hunt This Summer!

The Solving Fun Puzzle Pals have been hard at work in Fairfax creating an exhilarating new adventure for puzzle solvers, known as the Fairfax County Puzzle Hunt! This unique community event, the first one in Fairfax, will take you on a journey to the wonderful parks in Fairfax County this summer. Along the way you’ll find puzzles that are filled with creative thinking, logic, and wordplay. They are designed to be challenging and accessible for all skill levels. Solve the puzzles and then find clues at the parks for a final meta-puzzle. Walk, bike, and roll at our wonderful local parks with friends and family. For more information go to www.solvingfun.com/fairfax. The Puzzle Hunt will launch June 15th, so get your solving skills ready!

 

7137 Beulah Street, Alexandria, VA 22315  |  Phone: 703.924.7700

Attendance: 703.924.7777  |  Web | Twitter

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletin en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى

  The Lion’s Roar May 31, 2024

 

The Sound of Students Making Music

This past week Strings students and Band students presented their spring concerts. Fourth-grade Strings students got the chance to perform for family and friends for the first time.

 

Insect Hospitality

Students in 4th and 5th grade have been building a natural habitat in the Lane garden – the "Lane Bug Hotel." They gathered supplies by the bus loop, stacked them in an inviting way for future insect visitors, and painted the wooden frame. They've already gotten their first guest!

  Upcoming Events

• Monday, 6/3 – SCA Spirit Day: Circus Day
• Tuesday, 6/4 – SCA Spirit Day: Luau Day
• Wednesday, 6/5 – SCA Spirit Day: Extracurricular Day
• Thursday, 6/6 – SCA Spirit Day: “Future Me” Day
• Thursday, 6/6 – Chorus Concert, 6:30 p.m.
• Friday, 6/7 – SCA Spirit Day: Fancy Friday
• Friday, 6/7 – PTA Glow Party, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
• Monday, 6/10 – SCA Spirit Day: Rainbow Day (each grade level will dress up in a specific color)
• Tuesday, 6/11 – SCA Spirit Day: Backwards/Inside-out Day
• Wednesday, 6/12 – SCA Spirit Day: Lane Lion Spirit Day
• Wednesday, 6/12 – 6th Grade Promotion Ceremony, 9:30 a.m.
• Wednesday, 6/12 – Last day of school, early dismissal at 2:05 p.m.

 

 

In This Issue

• June Spirit Days Ahead!

• Join Us for Our 5th and 6th Grade Chorus Concert Next Thursday, June 6th!

• Sign Up for Music Electives for Next Year Now!

• From the Shelves of the Lane Library: End-of-Year Library Information
• Attention Rising 7th Grade Twain Families: Upcoming Event for Families
• Save the Date for Back-to-School Summer and Fall Events!
• PTA News: Tickets now available for June 7th Glow Party!
• Parent Resources: Family phone lines, summer camps
• Community Events & Activities: Fairfax County Puzzle Hunt, Hayfield Fun Finale, FCPS Summer Extravaganza, Fairfax County Park Authority Arts in the Parks summer series
• FCPS News & Announcements: 2025 Budget

 

 

News & Notes

 

June Spirit Days Ahead!

The SCA is sponsoring spirit days for all the days we are in school in June! Here’s a schedule of dates and themes.

• Monday, June 3rd: Circus Day – Wear something that is circus-related to support our littlest lions who will be performing in their very own Kindergarten Circus that day.
• Tuesday, June 4th: Luau Day – Get your luau on!
• Wednesday, June 5th: Extracurricular Day – Wear something that shows an extracurricular activity you participate in (sports, dance, martial arts, etc.).
• Thursday, June 6th: “Future Me” Day – Wear something that shows what you want to be when you grow up.
• Friday, June 7th: Fancy Friday – Dress your best!

• Monday, June 10th: Rainbow Day – Each grade level will dress up in a specific color:
  • 6th grade – Red
  • 5th grade – Orange
  • 4th grade – Yellow
  • 3rd grade – Green
  • 2nd grade – Blue
  • 1st grade – Purple
  • Kindergarten – Rainbow.
• Tuesday, June 11th: Backwards/Inside-out Day – Dress exactly how that sounds.
• Wednesday, June 12th: Lane Lion Spirit Day – Wear your Lane Lion gear or blue and yellow or white for the last day of school and to support our 6th graders, who will have their Promotion Ceremony that morning.

We hope your child will participate!

 

Join Us for Our 5th and 6th Grade Chorus Concert Next Thursday, June 6th!

This past week, the Lane community got to enjoy a wonderful concert by our instrumental music students as the Strings and Band programs presented their spring concerts. Next week, our 5th and 6th Chorus will perform their spring concert. All families are welcome to join us next Thursday, June 6th, at 6:30 p.m. to enjoy the music of these talented vocal-music students.

  Sign Up for Music Electives for Next Year Now

Attention Rising 4th, 5th, and 6th Grade Families!

NOW is the time to sign up to learn how to play an instrument in Strings (grades 4, 5, 6) or Band (grades 5, 6 only) for next year! Lessons happen during the school day (during Specials) with a concert at the end of the year! Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of these AMAZING instrumental programs at Lane!

Students in 5th and 6th grade also have the opportunity to join Chorus for next year! Chorus lessons happen during the school day with two concert performances that happen during the school year. Students may choose an instrument AND Chorus. Sign up for Chorus now!

If you have questions, please reach out to the music teachers:

Amber Hicks, Strings, [email protected]
Ryan Woessner, Band, [email protected]
Grayson Crouch, Chorus, [email protected]
Stefan Griffin, Chorus, [email protected].

 

From the Shelves of the Lane Library: End-of-Year Library Information

As we get closer to the end of the school year, please note the following.

• Weekly notices are being sent via email to help remind students of ALL of their checked-out library materials (not just overdue items).
• All student library materials are now overdue! Please do your best to get all items in as soon as possible.
• As always, the library does not have fees for overdue books; however, families are expected to pay the replacement cost for books that are lost or returned damaged.

Thank you for supporting the library! Contact Mrs. Chozick, Librarian, at [email protected] with questions.

 

Attention Rising 7th Grade Twain Families: Upcoming Event for Parents

Mark Twain Middle School will be hosting a Rising 7th Grade Parent Coffee on Tuesday, June 4th at 9:15 a.m. to provide an introduction to the school and time for questions. See the flyer for details (English, Spanish).

Save the Dates for Summer and Back-to-School Events!

We have started planning some community events for the summer and the school year ahead! Please be sure to put these events on your calendars if you’d like to attend.

Popsicle Playdates: Monday, August 5th through Thursday, August 8th, 7 – 8 p.m. on the main playground 

• Monday, August 5th – New kindergarten families
• Tuesday, August 6th – Grades 1 & 2
• Wednesday, August 7th – Grades 3 & 4
• Thursday, August 8th – Grades 5 & 6

 

Back-to-School Town Halls with Mrs. Prahl, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.

• Tuesday, August 13th – in English on Zoom
• Wednesday, August 14th – in person with Spanish interpretation

Open House – Thursday, August 15th (Exact times to be determined)

Students and their families are invited to come to school to see their classrooms, meet their teachers, and reconnect with Lane friends.

We are currently finalizing the exact times for families to attend this event. Stay tuned for updates!

Please note that special-education students who would prefer a less-crowded, less-intense Open House experience will be offered a separate window of time.

 

PTA First Day Coffee – Monday, August 19th, 9:20 – 10:30 a.m.

 

More details about these and other events will be sent out in the weeks ahead.

 

  PTA News

 

 

Light Up Your Night at the PTA’s Glow Party on Friday, June 7th!

It’s time to shine with other Lane families and friends as we near the end of the school year! On Friday, June 7th, the Lane PTA will host a Glow Party from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. So grab your brightest clothes and glowing accessories and get ready for an amazing end-of-year dance!

A limited number of tickets are now on sale, so get yours today before they sell out! Everyone attending MUST have a ticket.

Volunteers are needed! Every volunteer will receive a free family ticket (1 adult, 1 child), so come help us out and dance for free!

There will be food available for presale, but no food, snacks, or drink purchases will be sold the night of the event. So if you want something, please order it with your tickets. Food presale will end June 3rd.

Visit this link to get tickets, volunteer, or order food for that night: https://lanepta.givebacks.gives/laneglowparty.

*** PLEASE NOTE: All students MUST have an adult present at the dance. This is not a drop off event! ***

 

 

Parent Resources

 

Family Information Phone Lines Available in Eight Languages

Parents/caregivers who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese may call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS. View the list of phone numbers.

 

Register Soon for FCPS Summer Camps, Including New Cybersecurity Camp!

Chantilly Academy will host an AFA CyberCamp from Monday, June 24th, to Friday, June 28th, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day. This camp would be a great fit for rising 5th through 8th graders of all skill levels interested in learning more about the importance of cybersecurity and gaining skills to protect themselves and others from cyber threats. Discounts are available for students eligible for free and reduced-price meals. Visit the camp website for more information.

Registration is also still available for the Institute for the Arts (IFTA) and Elementary-IFTA (E-IFTA) arts camps, and Credit Recovery Academy (high school).

 

Summer Camp Opportunity for Strings Students!

SoCo Summer Strings is returning this summer! The camp will be hosted at South County Middle School weekdays from July 8th to 19th, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

The camp is open to all rising 5th through 9th grade students with at least one year of experience on the violin, viola, cello, or bass. Students will participate in two large ensemble rehearsals, an instrument-specific technique class, and a sectional each day.

You can find more information and registration for camp at www.schsorchestra.org/soco-summer-strings. Early registration is open until June 9th, so reserve your student’s spot soon!

 

Rec-PAC Is Now Registering for the Summer and Lane Will Be a Site!

Rec-PAC (Pretty Awesome Children), operated by Fairfax County Park Authority, is a six-week structured recreation program with emphasis on leisure skills designed for elementary school children.

Participants will have an opportunity to enjoy a wide variety of activities such as fun and fitness, indoor and outdoor games, team sports, nature, crafts, storytelling, sports festivals, talent shows and supervised play sessions. Each location has a ratio of 1 staff person to 18 participants. Lane will be a Rec-PAC site this summer.

Rec-PAC runs from Monday, June 24th through Thursday, August 1st. Each of the six weeks has its own theme with different themed activities happening throughout the week. You can sign your child up for any of the individual weeks or all of them!

Registration is now underway. Scholarships are available for families who qualify. You can find details in the Rec-PAC brochure.

 

Attention 6th Grade Parents: Summer VIP Camp Now Registering!

All rising middle schoolers are invited to attend a summer of fun and leisure with VIP Camp. VIP Camp — which takes place Monday, July 1st, to Thursday, August 1st — is designed to encourage teens to develop healthy and positive recreation interests and features a wide variety of leisure activities and programs. VIP Camp costs $100 to attend.

This camp is sponsored by Fairfax County Public Schools and Fairfax County’s Department of Neighborhood and Community Services. Students who will attend Hayfield and Twain Middle Schools will attend the VIP Camp at Sandburg Middle School. Use this link to register for that program.

Scholarships may be available for families struggling with financial hardship. Reach out to Sandburg’s after-school specialist for more information.

Space is limited so register soon! You can learn more at http://bit.ly/VIPcamp2024.

LMVSC Offers Summer Sports Camps

Lee Mount Vernon Sports Club (LMVSC) is offering a variety of sports camps for children this summer. Registration opens June 1st. Visit www.lmvsc.org for details.

Community Events & Activities

 

Fairfax County Hosts Its First Puzzle Hunt This Summer!

The Solving Fun Puzzle Pals have been hard at work in Fairfax creating an exhilarating new adventure for puzzle solvers, known as the Fairfax County Puzzle Hunt! This unique community event, the first one in Fairfax, will take you on a journey to the wonderful parks in Fairfax County this summer. Along the way you’ll find puzzles that are filled with creative thinking, logic, and wordplay. They are designed to be challenging and accessible for all skill levels. Solve the puzzles and then find clues at the parks for a final meta-puzzle. Walk, bike, and roll at our wonderful local parks with friends and family. For more information go to www.solvingfun.com/fairfax. The Puzzle Hunt will launch June 15th, so get your solving skills ready!

 

 

Hayfield Super Saturday Fun Finale

The Hayfield Class of 2026 invites students in grades 3 through 6 to join them in a celebration of FUN and games as the school year comes to an end at the Super Saturday Fun Finale. The event will be held in the Hayfield High School auxiliary gym from 8:30 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 1st. The cost is $20 per student per session. See the flyer for details and registration information.

 

FCPS’ Summer Extravaganza THIS Saturday, June 1st!

Don’t miss a day of family fun and learning at the FCPS Summer Extravaganza at Woodson High School on Saturday, June 1st from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Students will have the chance to engage in educational activities designed to spark curiosity and inspire growth.

Representatives from local businesses, Fairfax County Public Library, and the Fairfax County Park Authority are participating in the Summer Extravaganza. Community organizations, such as Neighborhood Community Services, will be at the event as well. All will have learning activities, tips, and helpful information for families. Enjoy face painting, food, music, a moon bounce, a petting zoo, storytime, and student performances — all at no cost!

Visit the Summer Extravaganza webpage for more details and register to attend. Registration is not required, but it's helpful for planning purposes.

 

Fairfax County Park Authority Offers Programs for Children and Families This Summer

Get ready for music, magic, movies and more at selected Fairfax County recreation centers and parks this summer. See the flyer for dates and details.

 

FCPS News & Announcements

 

School Board Votes to Adopt Fiscal Year 2025 Approved Budget

The Fairfax County School Board voted to adopt Fairfax County Public Schools’ (FCPS) Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Approved Budget at their last board meeting. The FY 2025 Approved Budget totals $3.7 billion — a net increase of $233.2 million or 6.6% over the previous year. 

The FY 2025 Approved Budget focuses on providing educational excellence for all students and ensuring that employees’ hard work and dedication are acknowledged through competitive compensation. Both of these efforts fully align with the FCPS 2023-30 Strategic Plan.

Nearly 86% of the Approved Budget is targeted at instruction. Key budget highlights include funding for a 4% compensation increase for all employees; maintaining existing class size formulas and providing necessary support to all students; and expanding athletics offerings, additional athletic trainers, and enhanced stipends for fine and performing arts.

Read the news release.

7137 Beulah Street, Alexandria, VA 22315  |  Phone: 703.924.7700

Attendance: 703.924.7777  |  Web | Twitter

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletin en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى

  The Lion’s Roar May 24, 2024

 

  Upcoming Events

• Monday, 5/27 – Memorial Day Holiday, School and Office CLOSED
• Tuesday, 5/28 – Farewell Reception for families leaving Lane, 4:30 p.m.
• Wednesday, 5/29 – 4th Grade Strings Concert, 6 p.m.; 5th and 6th Grade Band and Strings Concert, 7 p.m.
• Monday, 6/3 – SCA Spirit Day: Circus Day
• Tuesday, 6/4 – SCA Spirit Day: Luau Day
• Wednesday, 6/5 – SCA Spirit Day: Extracurricular Day
• Thursday, 6/6 – SCA Spirit Day: “Future Me” Day
• Thursday, 6/6 – Chorus Concert, 6:30 p.m.
• Friday, 6/7 – SCA Spirit Day: Fancy Friday
• Friday, 6/7 – PTA Glow Party, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
• Monday, 6/10 – SCA Spirit Day: Rainbow Day (each grade level will dress up in a specific color)
• Tuesday, 6/11 – SCA Spirit Day: Backwards/Inside-out Day
• Wednesday, 6/12 – SCA Spirit Day: Lane Lion Spirit Day
• Wednesday, 6/12 – 6th Grade Promotion Ceremony, 9:30 a.m.
• Wednesday, 6/12 – Last day of school, early dismissal at 2:05 p.m.

 

 

In This Issue

• Memorial Day Holiday – Monday, May 27th
• Family Input for Class Placement Next Year
• June Spirit Days Ahead!
• Celebrate Our Talented Music Students in Upcoming Concerts
• Sign Up for Music Electives for Next Year Now!
• From the Shelves of the Lane Library: End-of-Year Library Information
• Student Testing Results Coming Soon
• Attention Rising 7th Grade Twain Families: Upcoming Events for Families
• Save the Date for Back-to-School Summer and Fall Events!
• PTA News: Tickets now available for June 7th Glow Party!
• Parent Resources: Lunch balances, summer camps
• Community Events & Activities: Hayfield Fun Finale, FCPS Summer Extravaganza

 

 

News & Notes

 

Memorial Day Holiday – Monday, May 27th

Don’t forget that next Monday, May 27th, is the Memorial Day Holiday. School and the office will be CLOSED that day, and all staff members have the day off. SACC will also be closed.

For our military-connected families who may be remembering a family member or friend on this holiday, we thank you for your sacrifice and service.

  Family Input for Class Placement Next Year

A regular end-of-the-year task that staff work on is student groupings for class placements next year. All staff have input on groupings that can best support students within the school day. We also appreciate your input for staff to consider on how your child works and learns best. Below is our family input form. It will remain open throughout the month of May.

As you click the link to the form, you will find directions that need to be considered as you complete the form. PLEASE DO NOT REQUEST A TEACHER BY NAME OR GENDER. Additionally, please do NOT include negative information about past teachers, as the teachers read these forms when assisting with class assignments. If you do, please know it will be deleted.

Because of enrollment changes over the summer, class assignments will not be finalized until the middle of August 2024. Families will be contacted by the assigned teacher before attending Open House in August.

If you are interested in sharing information, please complete the form below by May 31, 2024.

FAMILY INPUT FORM

 

June Spirit Days Ahead!

The SCA is sponsoring spirit days for all the days we are in school in June! Here’s a schedule of dates and themes.

• Monday, June 3rd: Circus Day – Wear something that is circus-related to support our littlest lions who will be performing in their very own Kindergarten Circus that day.
• Tuesday, June 4th: Luau Day – Get your luau on!
• Wednesday, June 5th: Extracurricular Day – Wear something that shows an extracurricular activity you participate in (sports, dance, martial arts, etc.)
• Thursday, June 6th: “Future Me” Day – Wear something that shows what you want to be when you grow up
• Friday, June 7th: Fancy Friday – Dress your best!

• Monday, June 10th: Rainbow Day – Each grade level will dress up in a specific color:
  • 6th grade – Red
  • 5th grade – Orange
  • 4th grade – Yellow
  • 3rd grade – Green
  • 2nd grade – Blue
  • 1st grade – Purple
  • Kindergarten – Rainbow
• Tuesday, June 11th: Backwards/Inside-out Day – Dress exactly how that sounds
• Wednesday, June 12th: Lane Lion Spirit Day – Wear your Lane Lion gear or blue and yellow or white for the last day of school and to support our 6th graders, who will have their Promotion Ceremony that morning

We hope your child will participate!

 

Celebrate Our Talented Music Students in Upcoming Concerts

Three Lane student music groups will present their Spring Concerts in the next few weeks. On Wednesday, May 29th, 4th, 5th, and 6th grade Strings students and 5th and 6th grade Band students will perform. The 4th grade concert will begin at 6 p.m.; older students will perform at 7 p.m.

The following week, on Thursday, June 6th, 5th and 6th grade Chorus students will present their vocal-music concert at 6:30 p.m.

All families are welcome to attend both concerts and support our talented young musicians!

 

Sign Up for Music Electives for Next Year Now

Attention Rising 4th, 5th, and 6th Grade Families!

NOW is the time to sign up to learn how to play an instrument in Strings (grades 4, 5, 6) or Band (grades 5, 6 only) for next year! Lessons happen during the school day (during Specials) with a concert at the end of the year! Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of these AMAZING instrumental programs at Lane!

Students in 5th and 6th grade also have the opportunity to join Chorus for next year! Chorus lessons happen during the school day with two concert performances that happen during the school year. Students may choose an instrument AND Chorus. Sign up for Chorus now!

If you have questions, please reach out to the music teachers:

Amber Hicks, Strings, [email protected]
Ryan Woessner, Band, [email protected]
Grayson Crouch, Chorus, [email protected]
Stefan Griffin, Chorus, [email protected]

 

 

From the Shelves of the Lane Library: End-of-Year Library Information

As we get closer to the end of the school year, please note the following.

• Last week we started sending weekly notices via email to help remind students of ALL of their checked-out library materials (not just overdue items).
• All student library books are due NEXT WEDNESDAY, May 29th. Please do your best to get them in by this date!
• As always, the library does not have fees for overdue books; however, families are expected to pay the replacement cost for books that are lost or returned damaged.

Thank you for supporting the library! Contact Mrs. Chozick, Librarian, at [email protected] with questions.

 

Student Testing Results Coming Soon

Later this month, you will begin receiving your child’s spring assessment results. If you aren’t sure what assessments your child took this year, view this list of tests by grade level on FCPS’ website.

How the results are delivered depends on the test. Scores will be posted in SIS ParentVUE, or sent by mail or from the school or testing organization. Learn what to expect regarding assessment reporting practices and timelines. Visit FCPS’ website for additional information about student assessments, including what each assessment is testing for and how to interpret the test results. Caregivers should contact their children’s teacher with any testing questions.

New SOL Growth Reports for Grade 3-8 Tests

Virginia Standards of Learning (SOL) test results, along with other student data, help demonstrate in which subjects or topics students may need additional academic support.

In order to help interpret SOL results for parents, the Virginia Department of Education has released new Standards of Learning Growth Parent Reports for families of students who took grade 3-8 SOL math and reading tests this spring.

The Growth Parent Report ties together scores from fall and winter Virginia Growth Assessments (VGA) with the student’s current spring SOL results to show their trend in academic progress this year.

Learn how to understand your student’s grade 3-8 SOL results and find resources to support their ongoing learning.

 

Support Your Child’s Success in SIS ParentVUE

Signing up for a SIS ParentVUE account helps you to support your child’s academic success. Caregivers can view important information in ParentVUE such as attendance, grades, progress reports, and assessment scores.

Once you have activated a ParentVUE account for an FCPS student, you will keep the same account until the student graduates. Information about students in the same family can be accessed through the same ParentVUE account. A SIS ParentVUE app is available for Apple and Android devices.

Need help creating a SIS ParentVUE account? This video explains the steps. Find out more. To create a new account, please contact Jami O’Hagan, Lane registrar, at [email protected] or Melanie Crosby Hardy, our family liaison, at [email protected] for an activation letter.

If you already have an account, be sure your contact information is up-to-date. Parents/guardians can update their phone numbers or email addresses in the Parent/Guardian section. View more information.

 

Attention Rising 7th Grade Twain Families: Upcoming Event for Parents

Mark Twain Middle School will be hosting a Rising 7th Grade Parent Coffee on Tuesday, June 4th at 9:15 a.m. to provide an introduction to the school and time for questions. See the flyer for details (English, Spanish).

 

Save the Dates for Summer and Back-to-School Events!

We have started planning some community events for the summer and the school year ahead! Please be sure to put these events on your calendars if you’d like to attend.

Popsicle Playdates: Monday, August 5th through Thursday, August 8th, 7 – 8 p.m. on the main playground 

• Monday, August 5th – New kindergarten families
• Tuesday, August 6th – Grades 1 & 2
• Wednesday, August 7th – Grades 3 & 4
• Thursday, August 8th – Grades 5 & 6

 

Back-to-School Town Halls with Mrs. Prahl, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.

• Tuesday, August 13th – in English on Zoom
• Wednesday, August 14th – in person with Spanish interpretation

Open House – Thursday, August 15th (Exact times to be determined)

Students and their families are invited to come to school to see their classrooms, meet their teachers, and reconnect with Lane friends.

We are currently finalizing the exact times for families to attend this event. Stay tuned for updates!

Please note that special-education students who would prefer a less-crowded, less-intense Open House experience will be offered a separate window of time.

 

PTA First Day Coffee – Monday, August 19th (corrected date!), 9:20 – 10:30 a.m.

More details about these and other events will be sent out in the weeks ahead.

 

  PTA News

 

 

Light Up Your Night at the PTA’s Glow Party on Friday, June 7th!

It’s time to shine with other Lane families and friends as we near the end of the school year! On Friday, June 7th, the Lane PTA will host a Glow Party from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. So grab your brightest clothes and glowing accessories and get ready for an amazing end-of-year dance!

A limited number of tickets are now on sale, so get yours today before they sell out! Everyone attending MUST have a ticket.

Volunteers are needed! Every volunteer will receive a free family ticket (1 adult, 1 child), so come help us out and dance for free!

There will be food available for presale, but no food, snacks, or drink purchases will be sold the night of the event. So if you want something, please order it with your tickets. Food presale will end June 3rd.

Visit this link to get tickets, volunteer, or order food for that night: https://lanepta.givebacks.gives/laneglowparty.

*** PLEASE NOTE: All students MUST have an adult present at the dance. This is not a drop off event! ***

 

 

Parent Resources

 

Don’t Forget to Check Your Student’s Lunch Balance!

It’s a busy time of year, and we know there are many priorities on families’ plates. As we approach the end of the school year, it is important to remember to check your student’s MySchoolBucks account and pay any remaining school meal balance.

Families that earn less than 185% of poverty level qualify for free and reduced-price meals. However, an application must be completed and submitted each school year to receive that benefit. The application for the 2024-25 school year will be available this summer.

If your student has a current balance and you think your family may be eligible for free and reduced-price meals, please fill out the FRM application for the 2023-24 school year. Get more information about free and reduced-price lunch.

 

Register Today for FCPS Summer Camps

Registration for FCPS Career and Technical Education (CTE) camps and Institute for the Arts (IFTA/E-IFTA) camps closes on Friday, June 7th. Tuition is waived for students eligible for free and reduced-price meals. Bus transportation is available from select FCPS high schools and middle schools. Learn more about Summer Learning and Fun.

  Summer Camp Opportunity for Strings Students!

SoCo Summer Strings is returning this summer! The camp will be hosted at South County Middle School weekdays from July 8th to 19th, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

The camp is open to all rising 5th through 9th grade students with at least one year of experience on the violin, viola, cello, or bass. Students will participate in two large ensemble rehearsals, an instrument-specific technique class, and a sectional each day.

You can find more information and registration for camp at www.schsorchestra.org/soco-summer-strings. Early registration is open until June 9th, so reserve your student’s spot soon!

 

Rec-PAC Is Now Registering for the Summer and Lane Will Be a Site!

Rec-PAC (Pretty Awesome Children), operated by Fairfax County Park Authority, is a six-week structured recreation program with emphasis on leisure skills designed for elementary school children.

Participants will have an opportunity to enjoy a wide variety of activities such as fun and fitness, indoor and outdoor games, team sports, nature, crafts, storytelling, sports festivals, talent shows and supervised play sessions. Each location has a ratio of 1 staff person to 18 participants. Lane will be a Rec-PAC site this summer.

Rec-PAC runs from Monday, June 24th through Thursday, August 1st. Each of the six weeks has its own theme with different themed activities happening throughout the week. You can sign your child up for any of the individual weeks or all of them!

Registration is now underway. Scholarships are available for families who qualify. You can find details in the Rec-PAC brochure.

 

Attention 6th Grade Parents: Summer VIP Camp Now Registering!

All rising middle schoolers are invited to attend a summer of fun and leisure with VIP Camp. VIP Camp — which takes place Monday, July 1st, to Thursday, August 1st — is designed to encourage teens to develop healthy and positive recreation interests and features a wide variety of leisure activities and programs. VIP Camp costs $100 to attend.

 

Community Events & Activities

 

Fairfax County Hosts Its First Puzzle Hunt This Summer!

The Solving Fun Puzzle Pals have been hard at work in Fairfax creating an exhilarating new adventure for puzzle solvers, known as the Fairfax County Puzzle Hunt! This unique community event, the first one in Fairfax, will take you on a journey to the wonderful parks in Fairfax County this summer. Along the way you’ll find puzzles that are filled with creative thinking, logic, and wordplay. They are designed to be challenging and accessible for all skill levels. Solve the puzzles and then find clues at the parks for a final meta-puzzle. Walk, bike, and roll at our wonderful local parks with friends and family. For more information go to www.solvingfun.com/fairfax. The Puzzle Hunt will launch June 15th, so get your solving skills ready!

 

 

Hayfield Super Saturday Fun Finale

The Hayfield Class of 2026 invites students in grades 3 through 6 to join them in a celebration of FUN and games as the school year comes to an end at the Super Saturday Fun Finale. The event will be held in the Hayfield High School auxiliary gym from 8:30 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 1st. The cost is $20 per student per session. See the flyer for details and registration information.

 

Save the Date for FCPS’ Summer Extravaganza

Don’t miss a day of family fun and learning at the FCPS Summer Extravaganza at Woodson High School on Saturday, June 1st from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Students will have the chance to engage in educational activities designed to spark curiosity and inspire growth.

Representatives from local businesses, Fairfax County Public Library, and the Fairfax County Park Authority are participating in the Summer Extravaganza. Community organizations, such as Neighborhood Community Services, will be at the event as well. All will have learning activities, tips, and helpful information for families. Enjoy face painting, food, music, a moon bounce, a petting zoo, storytime, and student performances — all at no cost!

Visit the Summer Extravaganza webpage for more details and register to attend. Registration is not required, but it's helpful for planning purposes.

7137 Beulah Street, Alexandria, VA 22315  |  Phone: 703.924.7700

Attendance: 703.924.7777  |  Web | Twitter

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletin en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى

  The Lion’s Roar May 17, 2024   Upcoming Events

• Monday, 5/27 – Memorial Day Holiday, School and Office CLOSED
• Tuesday, 5/28 – Farewell Reception for families leaving Lane, 4:30 p.m.
• Wednesday, 5/29 – 4th Grade Strings Concert, 6 p.m.; 5th and 6th Grade Band and Strings Concert, 7 p.m.
• Thursday, 6/6 – Chorus Concert, 6:30 p.m.
• Friday, 6/7 – PTA Glow Party, 6 p.m.
• Wednesday, 6/12 – 6th Grade Promotion Ceremony, 9:30 a.m.
• Wednesday, 6/12 – Last day of school, early dismissal at 2:05 p.m.

 

  In This Issue

• Family Input for Class Placement Next Year
• Farewell Reception for Families Leaving Lane – Tuesday, May 28th, 4:30 – 5:30 p.m.
• From the Shelves of the Lane Library: End-of-Year Library Information
• Last Call for Photos for Jewish American Heritage Month and Asian American and Pacific Islander Month Slide Shows

• Celebrate Our Talented Music Students in Upcoming Concerts

• Sign Up for Music Electives for Next Year Now!

• Attention Rising 7th Grade Twain Families: Upcoming Event for Parents
• Save the Date for Back-to-School Summer and Fall Events
• PTA News: New PTA Leadership, Glow Party June 7th
• Parent Resources: Summer camps
• Community Events & Activities: Hayfield Fun Finale, FCPS Summer Extravaganza

 

 

News & Notes   Family Input for Class Placement Next Year

A regular end-of-the-year task that staff work on is student groupings for class placements next year. All staff have input on groupings that can best support students within the school day. We also appreciate your input for staff to consider on how your child works and learns best. Below is our family input form. It will remain open throughout the month of May.

As you click the link to the form, you will find directions that need to be considered as you complete the form. PLEASE DO NOT REQUEST A TEACHER BY NAME OR GENDER. Additionally, please do NOT include negative information about past teachers, as the teachers read these forms when assisting with class assignments. If you do, please know it will be deleted.

Because of enrollment changes over the summer, class assignments will not be finalized until the middle of August 2024. Families will be contacted by the assigned teacher before attending Open House in August.

If you are interested in sharing information, please complete the form below by May 31, 2024.

FAMILY INPUT FORM

 

Farewell Reception for Families Leaving Lane – Tuesday, May 28th, 4:30 – 5:30 p.m.

Each year, we must say “Goodbye” to many families in our Lane community who are moving away to start exciting new adventures. Our Student Ambassadors have planned a special event to wish them well.

If your family will be leaving Lane, please plan to join us after school on Tuesday, May 28th, from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. in the Lane Cafeteria for a Farewell Reception in your honor. Please RSVP to let us know how many people will be in your family group. This will help us ensure we have enough refreshments and other supplies. You can email our family liaison Melanie Crosby Hardy at [email protected] or you can fill out this Google form. Please respond by next Friday, May 24th.

 

 

From the Shelves of the Lane Library: End-of-Year Library Information

As we get closer to the end of the school year, please note the following.

• Yesterday we started sending weekly notices via email to help remind students of ALL of their checked out library materials (not just overdue items).
• All student library books are due on Wednesday, May 29th. Please do your best to get them in by this date!
• As always, the library does not have fees for overdue books; however, families are expected to pay the replacement cost for books that are lost or returned damaged.

Thank you for supporting the library! Contact Mrs. Chozick, Librarian, at [email protected] with questions.

 

  Last Call for Photos for Jewish American Heritage Month and Asian American and Pacific Islander Month Slide Shows

We would like to end our recognition with slide shows featuring our Jewish American students and our Asian American and Pacific Islander students. If you would like for us to include a picture of your child, please email it to our family liaison Melanie Crosby Hardy at [email protected] no later than Friday, May 24th. Be sure to let us know which slide show the photo is for.

 

Celebrate Our Talented Music Students in Upcoming Concerts

Three Lane student music groups will present their Spring Concerts in the next few weeks. On Wednesday, May 29th, 4th, 5th, and 6th grade Strings students and 5th and 6th grade Band students will perform. The 4th grade concert will begin at 6 p.m.; older students will perform at 7 p.m.

The following week, on Thursday, June 6th, 5th and 6th grade Chorus students will present their vocal-music concert at 6:30 p.m.

All families are welcome to attend both concerts and support our talented young musicians!

 

Sign Up for Music Electives for Next Year Now

Attention Rising 4th, 5th, and 6th Grade Families!

NOW is the time to sign up to learn how to play an instrument in Strings (grades 4, 5, 6) or Band (grades 5, 6 only) for next year! Lessons happen during the school day (during Specials) with a concert at the end of the year! Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of these AMAZING instrumental programs at Lane!

Students in 5th and 6th grade also have the opportunity to join Chorus for next year! Chorus lessons happen during the school day with two concert performances that happen during the school year. Students may choose an instrument AND Chorus. Sign up for Chorus now!

If you have questions, please reach out to the music teachers:

Amber Hicks, Strings, [email protected]
Ryan Woessner, Band, [email protected]
Grayson Crouch, Chorus, [email protected]
Stefan Griffin, Chorus, [email protected]

 

Attention Rising 7th Grade Twain Families: Upcoming Event for Parents

Mark Twain Middle School will be hosting a Rising 7th Grade Parent Coffee on Tuesday, June 4th at 9:15 a.m. to provide an introduction to the school and time for questions. See the flyer for details (English, Spanish).

 

Save the Dates for Summer and Back-to-School Events!

We have started planning some community events for the summer and the school year ahead! Please be sure to put these events on your calendars if you’d like to attend.

Popsicle Playdates: Monday, August 5th through Thursday, August 8th, 7 – 8 p.m. on the main playground 

• Monday, August 5th – New kindergarten families
• Tuesday, August 6th – Grades 1 & 2
• Wednesday, August 7th – Grades 3 & 4
• Thursday, August 8th – Grades 5 & 6

 

Back-to-School Town Halls with Mrs. Prahl, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.

• Tuesday, August 13th – in English on Zoom
• Wednesday, August 14th – in person with Spanish interpretation

Open House – Thursday, August 15th (Exact times to be determined)

Students and their families are invited to come to school to see their classrooms, meet their teachers, and reconnect with Lane friends.

We are currently finalizing the exact times for families to attend this event. Stay tuned for updates!

Please note that special-education students who would prefer a less-crowded, less-intense Open House experience will be offered a separate window of time.

PTA First Day Coffee – Monday, August 21st, 9:20 – 10:30 a.m.

More details about these and other events will be sent out in the weeks ahead.

 

 

PTA News   Congratulations to the 2024-2025 PTA Board!

Last evening, the Lane PTA held elections for its Executive Board and Committee Chairs for the upcoming school year. Here is the new roster:

• President: Connecticut Wilson
• Vice President: Andrea Pagano-Reyes
• Secretary: Tara Barbiere
• Treasurer: Katrina Torres
• Membership/Volunteer Chair: Stephany Dula-Strong
• Family Liaison Chair: Melanie Crosby Hardy
• Inclusivity Chair: Kristyn King
• VP Social: Sem Tesfaye
• Social Co-Chair: Fionnuala Smyth
• VP Communications: Heather Ratcliff
• Communications Co-Chair: Michelle Shook
• VP Education: Phillip McMahan
• Education Co-Chair: VACANT
• Education Cub Club Liaison: Stephany Dula-Strong
• VP Fundraising: Shannon McLaughlin
• Read-A-Thon Chair: Sarah Ruby
• Basket Bingo Chair: VACANT
• Restaurant Nights Chair: Dima Saettel
• Spiritwear Chair: Claire Kurtenbach

There are still a few open positions. If you’re interested in getting more involved with this dynamic and supportive group of volunteers, please email [email protected].

 

SAVE THE DATE! PTA Glow Party Is Coming Soon – Friday, June 7th!

Get ready to light up your Friday night with other Lane friends and families on June 7th, at the PTA’s end-of-year Glow Party! Watch for more information coming soon about tickets, activities and more!

 

Register Today for FCPS Summer Camps

Registration for FCPS Career and Technical Education (CTE) camps and Institute for the Arts (IFTA/E-IFTA) camps closes on Friday, June 7th. Tuition is waived for students eligible for free and reduced-price meals. Bus transportation is available from select FCPS high schools and middle schools. Learn more about Summer Learning and Fun.

  Summer Camp Opportunity for Strings Students!

SoCo Summer Strings is returning this summer! The camp will be hosted at South County Middle School weekdays from July 8th to 19th, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

The camp is open to all rising 5th through 9th grade students with at least one year of experience on the violin, viola, cello, or bass. Students will participate in two large ensemble rehearsals, an instrument-specific technique class, and a sectional each day.

You can find more information and registration for camp at www.schsorchestra.org/soco-summer-strings. Early registration is open until June 9th, so reserve your student’s spot soon!

 

Rec-PAC Is Now Registering for the Summer and Lane Will Be a Site!

Rec-PAC (Pretty Awesome Children), operated by Fairfax County Park Authority, is a six-week structured recreation program with emphasis on leisure skills designed for elementary school children.

Participants will have an opportunity to enjoy a wide variety of activities such as fun and fitness, indoor and outdoor games, team sports, nature, crafts, storytelling, sports festivals, talent shows and supervised play sessions. Each location has a ratio of 1 staff person to 18 participants. Lane will be a Rec-PAC site this summer.

Rec-PAC runs from Monday, June 24th through Thursday, August 1st. Each of the six weeks has its own theme with different themed activities happening throughout the week. You can sign your child up for any of the individual weeks or all of them!

Registration is now underway. Scholarships are available for families who qualify. You can find details in the Rec-PAC brochure.

 

Attention 6th Grade Parents: Summer VIP Camp Now Registering!

All rising middle schoolers are invited to attend a summer of fun and leisure with VIP Camp. VIP Camp — which takes place Monday, July 1st, to Thursday, August 1st — is designed to encourage teens to develop healthy and positive recreation interests and features a wide variety of leisure activities and programs. VIP Camp costs $100 to attend.

This camp is sponsored by Fairfax County Public Schools and Fairfax County’s Department of Neighborhood and Community Services. Students who will attend Hayfield and Twain Middle Schools will attend the VIP Camp at Sandburg Middle School. Use this link to register for that program.

Scholarships may be available for families struggling with financial hardship. Reach out to Sandburg’s after-school specialist for more information.

Space is limited so register soon! You can learn more at http://bit.ly/VIPcamp2024.

 

  Community Events & Activities

 

Hayfield Super Saturday Fun Finale

The Hayfield Class of 2026 invites students in grades 3 through 6 to join them in a celebration of FUN and games as the school year comes to an end at the Super Saturday Fun Finale. The event will be held in the Hayfield High School auxiliary gym from 8:30 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 18th and/or Saturday, June 1st. The cost is $20 per student per session. See the flyer for details and registration information.

 

Save the Date for FCPS’ Summer Extravaganza

Don’t miss a day of family fun and learning at the FCPS Summer Extravaganza at Woodson High School on Saturday, June 1st from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Students will have the chance to engage in educational activities designed to spark curiosity and inspire growth.

Representatives from local businesses, Fairfax County Public Library, and the Fairfax County Park Authority are participating in the Summer Extravaganza. Community organizations, such as Neighborhood Community Services, will be at the event as well. All will have learning activities, tips, and helpful information for families. Enjoy face painting, food, music, a moon bounce, a petting zoo, storytime, and student performances — all at no cost!

Visit the Summer Extravaganza webpage for more details and register to attend. Registration is not required, but it's helpful for planning purposes.

7137 Beulah Street, Alexandria, VA 22315  |  Phone: 703.924.7700

Attendance: 703.924.7777  |  Web | Twitter

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletin en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى

  The Lion’s Roar May 10, 2024

 

More Museums, Garden Delights, and Testing Well Wishes

It was once again a busy spring week at Lane. Here are some highlights.

The spring field trip extravaganza continued this week, as 5th grade journeyed to The National Natural History Museum in Washington, D.C. to explore natural wonders of the world around us.

 

Natural wonders in our own backyard garden provided hands-on learning for 5th graders and our multiple abilities students.

 

And Ms. Brusick’s 3rd graders got a pleasant surprise before their first SOL test on Wednesday morning as they received letters of encouragement from their families, teachers, and friends.

  Upcoming Events

• Continuing through Friday, 5/17 – SCA drive for animal shelters
• Monday, 5/13 – 5th Grade Math SOL Test
• Tuesday, 5/14 – 3rd Grade Math SOL Test
• Tuesday, 5/14 & Wednesday, 5/15 – PTA Restaurant Nights at Smyrna
• Wednesday, 5/15 – 4th Grade Math SOL Test
• Friday, 5/17 – 6th Grade Math SOL Test
• Monday, 5/27 – Memorial Day Holiday, School and Office CLOSED
• Tuesday, 5/28 – Farewell Reception for families leaving Lane, 4:30 p.m.
• Wednesday, 5/29 – 4th Grade Strings Concert, 6 p.m.; 5th and 6th Grade Band and Strings Concert, 7 p.m.
• Thursday, 6/6 – Chorus Concert, 6:30 p.m.
• Friday, 6/7 – PTA Glow Party, 6 p.m.
• Wednesday, 6/12 – Last day of school, early dismissal at 2:05 p.m.

 

 

In This Issue

• Happy Mother’s Day!
• SOL Testing Continues Next Week
• Family Input for Class Placement Next Year
• Feedback on Fall Portrait Process
• From the Shelves of the Lane Library: End-of-Year Library Information
• Attention Rising 7th Grade Twain Families: Upcoming Events for Families
• SCA Animal Shelter Drive Continues through May 17th
• Patrol Applications Due This Sunday, May 12th
• Jewish American Heritage Month: Share Your Culture with Your Lane Family!
• Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month: Share Your Culture with Your Lane Family!
• PTA News: Staff appreciation; May Restaurant Days at Smyrna
• Parent Resources: Middle school start times, military family listening session, summer camps, and more!
• Community Events & Activities: Hayfield Fun Finale, Techstravaganza, FCPS Summer Extravaganza

 

  News & Notes

 

 

Happy Mother’s Day!

We’d like to start this week’s newsletter by wishing all the moms in our community an early Happy Mother’s Day (which is this Sunday, May 12th). We are proud to have you as part of our Lane Lion Pride! (Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-ND)

 

SOL Testing Continues Next Week

Our required Standards of Learning (SOL) are well underway and will continue next week. Here is the schedule for the remaining tests:

• Monday, May 13th: 5th Grade Math
• Tuesday, May 14th: 3rd Grade Math
• Wednesday, May 15th: 4th Grade Math
• Friday, May 17th: 6th Grade Math

You can help your children be physically prepared for testing by ensuring that they have a good night’s sleep the night before, eat a healthy breakfast in the morning, and come to school with a positive attitude. We also ask that you avoid scheduling appointments that will take your child out of school on test days. Make-up days will be available, but it’s best for students to take the tests on the scheduled day with their class. Retakes for certain students who qualify will start later in May.

If you have any questions about the SOLs or other academic concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact your child’s teacher.

  Family Input for Class Placement Next Year

A regular end-of-the-year task that staff work on is student groupings for class placements next year. All staff have input on groupings that can best support students within the school day. We also appreciate your input for staff to consider on how your child works and learns best. Below is our family input form. It will remain open throughout the month of May.

As you click the link to the form, you will find directions that need to be considered as you complete the form. PLEASE DO NOT REQUEST A TEACHER BY NAME OR GENDER. Additionally, please do NOT include negative information about past teachers, as the teachers read these forms when assisting with class assignments. If you do, please know it will be deleted.

Because of enrollment changes over the summer, class assignments will not be finalized until the middle of August 2024. Families will be contacted by the assigned teacher before attending Open House in August.

If you are interested in sharing information, please complete the form below by May 31, 2024.

FAMILY INPUT FORM

 

Feedback on Fall Portrait Process

As you know, we made a change this year from using a photography vendor for our fall portraits (and yearbook photos) to taking them ourselves, which enabled us to send every family a digital copy of their child’s photograph for free.

We are currently planning for next year’s portrait/yearbook process and would like to get your feedback on the new process this year. Please fill out a one-question survey here by Friday, May 24th. Thank you in advance!

On a related note, we’ve had inquiries about class pictures this spring. Mrs. Chozick will be taking class photos soon and all families will receive a free copy of the digital file.

 

From the Shelves of the Lane Library: End-of-Year Library Information

As we get closer to the end of the school year, please note the following.

• Starting on Thursday, May 16th, weekly notices to help remind students of ALL of their checked out library materials (not just overdue items) will be emailed.
• All student library books are due on Wednesday, May 29th. Please do your best to get them in by this date!
• As always, the library does not have fees for overdue books; however, families are expected to pay the replacement cost for books that are lost or returned damaged.

Thank you for supporting the library! Contact Mrs. Chozick, Librarian, at [email protected] with questions.

 

Attention Rising 7th Grade Twain Families: Upcoming Events for Families

Mark Twain Middle School will be hosting two events for families in the coming weeks.

First, on Thursday, May 16th, the PTA will host its annual Twain Community Night from 6 to 8 p.m. Pizza and other concessions as well as spirit wear will be available for purchase. All academic departments will be represented, and the Pick a Prize raffle features many great items. See the flyer for more information.

Second, on Tuesday, June 4th at 9:15 a.m. the school will offer a Rising 7th Grade Parent Coffee to provide an introduction to the school and time for questions. See the flyer for details (English, Spanish).

 

Help Wanted: Family Liaison

We are looking for a new hourly family liaison to join our team to help connect with and support parents and families in the Lane community. The position would be about 7-8 hours per week on a flexible schedule. Fluency in Spanish is preferred. Pay rate varies with experience, beginning at $22.89 per hour. Contact Kelly Tolley at [email protected] for more information or to submit your resume.

  SCA Animal Shelter Drive Continues through May 17th

From May 6th to May 17th, the SCA is holding a collection drive to support animal shelters! Each grade will bring in specific items for the drive. (There are also items that anyone can bring in, if they already have them.) Items should be new (or gently used as noted on the flyer). Collection containers will be placed in the main hallway. See the flyer for more details and grade-level item assignments.

  Patrol Applications Due This Sunday, May 12th

Lane Safety Patrol applications are now open! Any current 4th or 5th grader may apply to be a Safety Patrol for the 2023 – 2024 school year. Just follow this link to apply. Students and parents are encouraged to complete the application together so they are both aware of the requirements, duties, and responsibilities. Applications are due May 12th. Students selected will be notified of acceptance the week of May 24th.

Notifications of acceptance will be emailed to the student’s school account and to the parent’s email address. Please contact the Patrol Sponsor, Ms. Kurtenbach (Ms. K), with any questions at [email protected].

 

Jewish American Heritage Month: Share Your Culture with Your Lane Family!

May is a national month of recognition of the history of Jewish contributions to American culture, acknowledging the diverse achievement of the Jewish community in the U.S.

Here at Lane we would like to mark this special month in two ways. First, we invite all of our students who identify as Jewish to share something from their culture with their Lane friends and families. Students are encouraged to bring in an item to put on display for the rest of the month of May.

The item must be:

• Specific to Jewish culture
• No larger than a lunchbox or heavier than 10 pounds
• Unbreakable (to protect the item when taking it to and from school)
• School-appropriate for elementary-aged students.

Sharp items or weapons of any kind are prohibited.

Each item must be accompanied by a large index card or half-sheet of paper that includes the following information:

• Student’s name
• Student’s teacher’s name
• What the item is
• What country/culture the item is from
• One or two sentences about why this item is important to the student and/or how it relates to Jewish culture.

Items will be displayed in the glass case outside the Lane Library. Items without written information will not be displayed. Please send items in by Friday, May 17th.

Please note that Lane and FCPS are not liable for loss of or damage to any item brought in to display.

 

Second, we would like to end Jewish American Heritage Month with a slide show featuring our Jewish American students. If you would like for us to include a picture of your child, please email it to our family liaison Melanie Crosby Hardy at [email protected] no later than Friday, May 24th.

We hope your student will participate and look forward to learning more about your family and culture!

 

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month: Share Your Culture with Your Lane Family!

 

People with ancestral roots in Asia and the islands of the Pacific have been integral to the story of America. In 1992, May was designated Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month to celebrate their heritage and contributions.

Here at Lane we would like to mark this special month in two ways. First, we invite all of our students who identify as Asian American and/or Pacific Islander to share something from their culture with their Lane friends and families. Students are encouraged to bring in an item to put on display for the rest of the month of May.

The item must be:

• Specific to Asian/Pacific Islander culture
• No larger than a lunchbox or heavier than 10 pounds
• Unbreakable (to protect the item when taking it to and from school)
• School-appropriate for elementary-aged students.

Sharp items or weapons of any kind are prohibited.

Each item must be accompanied by a large index card or half-sheet of paper that includes the following information:

• Student’s name
• Student’s teacher’s name
• What the item is
• What country/culture the item is from
• One or two sentences about why this item is important to the student and/or how it relates to Asian/Pacific Islander culture.

Items will be displayed in the glass case outside the Lane Library. Items without written information will not be displayed. Please send items in by Friday, May 17th.

Please note that Lane and FCPS are not liable for loss of or damage to any item brought in to display.

 

Second, we would like to end Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month with a slide show featuring our Asian American and Pacific Islander students. If you would like for us to include a picture of your child, please email it to our family liaison Melanie Crosby Hardy at [email protected] no later than Friday, May 24th.

We hope your student will participate and look forward to learning more about your family and culture!

 

 

PTA News

 

 

Appreciating Our Lane Staff

The PTA did an amazing job of celebrating our staff this week for Staff Appreciation Week! From the pastry and bagel breakfast on Monday to the delicious Delia's lunch on Friday and all the sweet and salty snacks in between as well as the goodie bags filled with supplies, our staff certainly felt the love! Thank you for the “Thanks Yous,” PTA!

  Restaurant Days at Smyrna Tuesday, May 14th and Wednesday, May 15th

Join the PTA for its monthly restaurant fundraiser on May 14th and 15th at Smyrna, a relatively new restaurant in our area that celebrates the Aegean kitchen, crafting Greek and Turkish dishes filled with the flavors of the region. Check out their menu here.

All Lane purchases from the entire day both days will send a percentage of the total back to our school. Watch Wednesday Folders for flyers (required for your purchase to count).

 

 

Parent Resources

 

Share Your Thoughts on Middle School Start Times

Attend a forum to hear about adolescent sleep research from an expert, learn about FCPS’ ongoing middle school start times study, and participate in small group discussions. All forums will deliver the same presentation and provide the same feedback opportunities. Breakout sessions will be held for middle school students to share their voices. Students are encouraged to attend!

Register by clicking on one of the following dates:

Monday, May 13th, 6:30 - 8 p.m., virtual forum.

Monday, May 20th, 6 - 8 p.m., at Hughes Middle School

Wednesday, May 22nd, 6 - 8 p.m., at Frost Middle School

While registration is not required, it does help with planning. Language interpretation and childcare will be provided. Learn more about the project exploring middle school start times.

 

Military Families Virtual Listening Session

Dr. Lisa Coons, Virginia Superintendent of Public Instruction, is interested in hearing from military families across Virginia.

You may wish to consider joining others in their sharing of their family’s educational experiences during the Military Families Virtual Listening Session on May 15th from noon to 2 p.m.

To participate in the virtual listening session you must have access to Microsoft Teams.

Microsoft Teams
Join the meeting now

Meeting ID: 224 877 418 291
Passcode: 4Acmv5

Dial-in by phone
+1 434-230-0065,,898717595# United States, Lynchburg
Find a local number
Phone conference ID: 898 717 595#

For more information, please contact Dan Dunham at [email protected]. To connect with FCPS resources, please email [email protected].

Register Today for FCPS Summer Camps

Registration for FCPS Career and Technical Education (CTE) camps and Institute for the Arts (IFTA/E-IFTA) camps closes on Friday, June 7th. Tuition is waived for students eligible for free and reduced-price meals. Bus transportation is available from select FCPS high schools and middle schools. Learn more about Summer Learning and Fun.

  Summer Camp Opportunity for Strings Students!

SoCo Summer Strings is returning this summer! The camp will be hosted at South County Middle School weekdays from July 8th to 19th, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

The camp is open to all rising 5th through 9th grade students with at least one year of experience on the violin, viola, cello, or bass. Students will participate in two large ensemble rehearsals, an instrument-specific technique class, and a sectional each day.

You can find more information and registration for camp at www.schsorchestra.org/soco-summer-strings. Early registration is open until June 9th, so reserve your student’s spot soon!

 

Rec-PAC Is Now Registering for the Summer and Lane Will Be a Site!

Rec-PAC (Pretty Awesome Children), operated by Fairfax County Park Authority, is a six-week structured recreation program with emphasis on leisure skills designed for elementary school children.

Participants will have an opportunity to enjoy a wide variety of activities such as fun and fitness, indoor and outdoor games, team sports, nature, crafts, storytelling, sports festivals, talent shows and supervised play sessions. Each location has a ratio of 1 staff person to 18 participants. Lane will be a Rec-PAC site this summer.

Rec-PAC runs from Monday, June 24th through Thursday, August 1st. Each of the six weeks has its own theme with different themed activities happening throughout the week. You can sign your child up for any of the individual weeks or all of them!

Registration is now underway. Scholarships are available for families who qualify. You can find details in the Rec-PAC brochure.

 

Attention 6th Grade Parents: Summer VIP Camp Now Registering!

All rising middle schoolers are invited to attend a summer of fun and leisure with VIP Camp. VIP Camp — which takes place Monday, July 1st, to Thursday, August 1st — is designed to encourage teens to develop healthy and positive recreation interests and features a wide variety of leisure activities and programs. VIP Camp costs $100 to attend.

This camp is sponsored by Fairfax County Public Schools and Fairfax County’s Department of Neighborhood and Community Services. Students who will attend Hayfield and Twain Middle Schools will attend the VIP Camp at Sandburg Middle School. Use this link to register for that program.

Scholarships may be available for families struggling with financial hardship. Reach out to Sandburg’s after-school specialist for more information.

Space is limited so register soon! You can learn more at http://bit.ly/VIPcamp2024.

  Free Webinars from the Family Resource Center COVID-19 (C19) Compensatory Services Partnership Between FCPS and Varsity Tutors

Join us for an information session about a new partnership between Fairfax County Schools (FCPS) and Varsity Tutors. This partnership will provide students with disabilities an additional opportunity to receive compensatory education as a result of the COVID-19 Pandemic in accordance with their IEP.

Tuesday, May 14, 2024, 10 - 11 a.m. OR Wednesday, May 15, 2024, 7 - 8 p.m. (choose one session)

Register for this event

  Meet the Author Series: The Breakthrough Years by Ellen Galinsky

Child development expert Ellen Galinsky challenges widely held assumptions about adolescents and offers new ways for parents and others to better understand and interact with them in a way that helps them thrive.

Galinsky’s Shared Solutions Framework and Possibilities Mindset show you how to:

• turn daily conflicts into opportunities for problem-solving where both teens and parents feel listened to and respected
• encourage positive risk-taking in your child like standing up for themselves, making new friends, and helping their communities
• promote five essential executive function-based skills that can help them succeed now and in the future.

Join best-selling author Galinksy as she shares her latest research on raising thriving teens.

Friday, May 17, 2024, 10 - 11:30 a.m.

Register for this event

  Behavior Solution Series for Secondary Families: Taming the Teenaged Brain

Navigate the rollercoaster of teenage emotions with our training on behavior strategies, tailored to support you at home during those challenging adolescent years. We will provide practical insights and proven techniques to foster understanding and communication with your teenager.

Friday, May 31, 2024, 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Register for this event

 

  Community Events & Activities

 

Hayfield Super Saturday Fun Finale

The Hayfield Class of 2026 invites students in grades 3 through 6 to join them in a celebration of FUN and games as the school year comes to an end at the Super Saturday Fun Finale. The event will be held in the Hayfield High School auxiliary gym from 8:30 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 18th and/or Saturday, June 1st. The cost is $20 per student per session. See the flyer for details and registration information.

  Techstravaganza STEM Event at TJ on May 18th!

Techstravaganza is a free, public, hands-on STEM activity fair for elementary and middle school students in Northern Virginia. In previous years, the event has included more than 4,500 students and 70 labs presenting STEM activities. The 20th annual Techstravaganza will be held on Saturday, May 18th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology in Annandale.

Slots fill up fast, so register today at https://tinyurl.com/techstrav24. Visit tjtechstrav.org for more information.

 

Save the Date for FCPS’ Summer Extravaganza

Don’t miss a day of family fun and learning at the FCPS Summer Extravaganza at Woodson High School on Saturday, June 1st from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Students will have the chance to engage in educational activities designed to spark curiosity and inspire growth.

Representatives from local businesses, Fairfax County Public Library, and the Fairfax County Park Authority are participating in the Summer Extravaganza. Community organizations, such as Neighborhood Community Services, will be at the event as well. All will have learning activities, tips, and helpful information for families. Enjoy face painting, food, music, a moon bounce, a petting zoo, storytime, and student performances — all at no cost!

Visit the Summer Extravaganza webpage for more details and register to attend. Registration is not required, but it's helpful for planning purposes.

7137 Beulah Street, Alexandria, VA 22315  |  Phone: 703.924.7700

Attendance: 703.924.7777  |  Web | Twitter

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletin en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى

  The Lion’s Roar May 3, 2024

 

From Melodies to Museums

Congratulations to our 6th grade 2024 Choral Festival participants, who were selected by audition to perform along with more than 800 other singers from across the county at a special concert last weekend. Mr. Griffin and Mr. Crouch did a great job of preparing them for this unique choral music opportunity!

 

Students in 3rd grade got to explore huge crystals, giant animals, and many more natural wonders of our world on their field trip to the Natural History Museum in Washington, D.C. this week.

  Upcoming Events

• Monday, 5/6 – Tuesday, 5/17 – SCA drive for animal shelters
• Monday, 5/6 – 6th Grade Reading SOL Test
• Wednesday, 5/8 – Walk, Bike & Roll to School Day
• Wednesday, 5/8 – 3rd Grade Reading SOL Test
• Thursday, 5/9 – 4th Grade Reading SOL Test
• Friday, 5/10 – 5th Grade Science SOL Test
• Monday, 5/13 – 5th Grade Math SOL Test
• Tuesday, 5/14 – 3rd Grade Math SOL Test
• Tuesday, 5/14 & Wednesday, 5/15 – PTA Restaurant Nights at Smyrna
• Wednesday, 5/15 – 4th Grade Math SOL Test
• Friday, 5/17 – 6th Grade Math SOL Test
• Monday, 5/27 – Memorial Day Holiday, School and Office CLOSED
• Tuesday, 5/28 – Farewell Reception for families leaving Lane, 4:30 p.m.
• Wednesday, 5/29 – 4th Grade Strings Concert, 6 p.m.; 5th and 6th Grade Band and Strings Concert, 7 p.m.
• Thursday, 6/6 – Chorus Concert, 6:30 p.m.
• Friday, 6/7 – PTA Glow Party, 6 p.m.
• Wednesday, 6/12 – Last day of school, early dismissal at 2:05 p.m.

  In This Issue

• SOL Testing Continues This Week
• Family Input for Class Placement Next Year
• Staff Appreciation Week Is Next Week
• Spring Walk, Bike & Roll to School Day Is Wednesday, May 8th!
• Help Wanted: Family Liaison
• SCA Animal Shelter Drive Continues through May 17th
• Patrol Applications Due May 12th
• From the Shelves of the Lane Library: Fourth Quarter Overdue Notices
• Required Immunizations for Rising 7th and 12th Graders
• Jewish American Heritage Month: Share Your Culture with Your Lane Family!
• Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month: Share Your Culture with Your Lane Family!
• PTA News: May Restaurant Days at Smyrna
• Parent Resources: FCPS Ombuds, resources for new families, summer camps, and more!
• Community Events & Activities: Hayfield Fun Finale, Techstravaganza, FCPS Summer Extravaganza

 

  News & Notes
SOL Testing Continues This Week

Our required Standards of Learning (SOL) testing began this week with 5th grade reading and continues for the next two weeks.

Here is the schedule for the remaining tests:

• Monday, May 6th: 6th Grade Reading
• Wednesday, May 8th: 3rd Grade Reading
• Thursday, May 9th: 4th Grade Reading
• Friday, May 10th: 5th Grade Science
• Monday, May 13th: 5th Grade Math
• Tuesday, May 14th: 3rd Grade Math
• Wednesday, May 15th: 4th Grade Math
• Friday, May 17th: 6th Grade Math

You can help your children be physically prepared for testing by ensuring that they have a good night’s sleep the night before, eat a healthy breakfast in the morning, and come to school with a positive attitude. We also ask that you avoid scheduling appointments that will take your child out of school on test days. Make-up days will be available, but it’s best for students to take the tests on the scheduled day with their class. Retakes for certain students who qualify will start later in May.

If you have any questions about the SOLs or other academic concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact your child’s teacher.

 

Family Input for Class Placement Next Year

A regular end-of-the-year task that staff work on is student groupings for class placements next year. All staff have input on groupings that can best support students within the school day. We also appreciate your input for staff to consider on how your child works and learns best. Below is our family input form. It will remain open throughout the month of May.

As you click the link to the form, you will find directions that need to be considered as you complete the form. PLEASE DO NOT REQUEST A TEACHER BY NAME OR GENDER. Additionally, please do NOT include negative information about past teachers, as the teachers read these forms when assisting with class assignments. If you do, please know it will be deleted.

Because of enrollment changes over the summer, class assignments will not be finalized until the middle of August 2024. Families will be contacted by the assigned teacher before attending Open House in August.

If you are interested in sharing information, please complete the form below by May 31, 2024.

FAMILY INPUT FORM

 

 

Staff Appreciation Week Is Next Week!

The week of May 6th through 10th is National Teacher Appreciation Week. At Lane, we celebrate Staff Appreciation Week, as we honor all the amazing adults who work so hard with our students every day. This includes not only classroom teachers but also specialists (art, music, P. E., etc.), resource teachers (special education, ESOL, reading, math, etc.), and instructional assistants.

If you would like to express your appreciation for the work your child’s teacher has done this year, we encourage you to do so. You don’t need to spend a lot of money, as the best gifts are often simple and free. The Lane PTA is planning special treats for the entire week and invites all families to join them in showing their love for our staff by bringing a little something to school on Friday, May 10th. Handwritten notes, drawings, gift cards, and classroom supplies are some ideas of what to bring. If your student is especially creative, maybe they can write a song about their teacher and sing it to them on Friday! It's all about how they want to show their appreciation, and the possibilities are limitless! Keep an eye on the PTA Facebook page to see how they are celebrating staff next week.

 

 

Spring Walk, Bike & Roll to School Day Is Wednesday, May 8th!

Schools across Fairfax County will participate in Walk, Bike, and Roll to School Day on Wednesday, May 8th in an effort to promote physical activity and reduce traffic congestion and pollution near schools. Students and staff are encouraged to bike or walk to school and work, where safe to do so, that day. Parents are encouraged to accompany their children to school.

  Help Wanted: Family Liaison

We are looking for a new hourly family liaison to join our team to help connect with and support parents and families in the Lane community. The position would be about 7-8 hours per week on a flexible schedule. Fluency in Spanish is preferred. Pay rate varies with experience, beginning at $22.89 per hour. Contact Kelly Tolley at [email protected] for more information or to submit your resume.

 

SCA Animal Shelter Drive Continues through May 17th

From May 6th to May 17th, the SCA is holding a collection drive to support animal shelters! Each grade will bring in specific items for the drive. (There are also items that anyone can bring in, if they already have them.) Items should be new (or gently used as noted on the flyer). Collection containers will be placed in the main hallway. See the flyer for more details and grade-level item assignments.

  Patrol Applications Due May 12th

Lane Safety Patrol applications are now open! Any current 4th or 5th grader may apply to be a Safety Patrol for the 2023 – 2024 school year. Just follow this link to apply: Students and parents are encouraged to complete the application together so they are both aware of the requirements, duties, and responsibilities. Applications are due May 12th. Students selected will be notified of acceptance the week of May 24th.

Notifications of acceptance will be emailed to the student’s school account and to the parent’s email address. Please contact the Patrol Sponsor, Ms. Kurtenbach (Ms. K), with any questions at [email protected].

  From the Shelves of the Lane Library: Fourth Quarter Overdue Notices

Dear Lane Readers,

Overdue notices were emailed out to families on Thursday, April 18th. Students who have books that were due on or before March 22nd should have received a notice.

Please do your best to look for these books and return them in good condition! It is also possible that books have been sent to school but have not yet made it to the library. If this is the case, apologies in advance for the crossed communication.

As a reminder, there are no fines for overdue books, however families are expected to pay the replacement cost for lost or damaged books.

Contact Sue Chozick, Librarian, at [email protected] with any questions.

 

Required Immunizations for Rising 7th and 12th Graders

Immunizations are required for all students entering 7th and 12th grades this fall. Visit the FCPS immunization webpage to learn about the required vaccines.

Caregivers should ask their private healthcare provider or the health department to review their student's immunization record to ensure that their student has received these required immunizations.

It is important to schedule immunizations early in the summer, as 7th grade students must submit documentation of the Tdap and Meningococcal vaccines before they begin school in August. Twelfth-grade students must submit documentation of the Meningococcal vaccine.

Get more information on all student immunization requirements.

 

  Jewish American Heritage Month: Share Your Culture with Your Lane Family!

May is a national month of recognition of the history of Jewish contributions to American culture, acknowledging the diverse achievement of the Jewish community in the U.S.

Here at Lane we would like to mark this special month in two ways. First, we invite all of our students who identify as Jewish to share something from their culture with their Lane friends and families. Students are encouraged to bring in an item to put on display for the rest of the month of May.

The item must be:

• Specific to Jewish culture
• No larger than a lunchbox or heavier than 10 pounds
• Unbreakable (to protect the item when taking it to and from school)
• School-appropriate for elementary-aged students.

Sharp items or weapons of any kind are prohibited.

Each item must be accompanied by a large index card or half-sheet of paper that includes the following information:

• Student’s name
• Student’s teacher’s name
• What the item is
• What country/culture the item is from
• One or two sentences about why this item is important to the student and/or how it relates to Jewish culture.

Items will be displayed in the glass case outside the Lane Library. Items without written information will not be displayed. Please send items in by Friday, May 17th.

Please note that Lane and FCPS are not liable for loss of or damage to any item brought in to display.

 

Second, we would like to end Jewish American Heritage Month with a slide show featuring our Jewish American students. If you would like for us to include a picture of your child, please email it to our family liaison Melanie Crosby Hardy at [email protected] no later than Friday, May 24th.

We hope your student will participate and look forward to learning more about your family and culture!

 

 

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month: Share Your Culture with Your Lane Family!

People with ancestral roots in Asia and the islands of the Pacific have been integral to the story of America. In 1992, May was designated Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month to celebrate their heritage and contributions.

Here at Lane we would like to mark this special month in two ways. First, we invite all of our students who identify as Asian American and/or Pacific Islander to share something from their culture with their Lane friends and families. Students are encouraged to bring in an item to put on display for the rest of the month of May.

The item must be:

• Specific to Asian/Pacific Islander culture
• No larger than a lunchbox or heavier than 10 pounds
• Unbreakable (to protect the item when taking it to and from school)
• School-appropriate for elementary-aged students.

Sharp items or weapons of any kind are prohibited.

Each item must be accompanied by a large index card or half-sheet of paper that includes the following information:

• Student’s name
• Student’s teacher’s name
• What the item is
• What country/culture the item is from
• One or two sentences about why this item is important to the student and/or how it relates to Asian/Pacific Islander culture.

Items will be displayed in the glass case outside the Lane Library. Items without written information will not be displayed. Please send items in by Friday, May 17th.

Please note that Lane and FCPS are not liable for loss of or damage to any item brought in to display.

 

Second, we would like to end Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month with a slide show featuring our Asian American and Pacific Islander students. If you would like for us to include a picture of your child, please email it to our family liaison Melanie Crosby Hardy at [email protected] no later than Friday, May 24th.

We hope your student will participate and look forward to learning more about your family and culture!

 

 

PTA News Restaurant Days at Smyrna Tuesday, May 14th and Wednesday, May 15th

Join the PTA for its monthly restaurant fundraiser on May 14th and 15th at Smyrna, a relatively new restaurant in our area that celebrates the Aegean kitchen, crafting Greek and Turkish dishes filled with the flavors of the region. Check out their menu here.

All Lane purchases from the entire day both days will send a percentage of the total back to our school. Watch Wednesday Folders for flyers (required for your purchase to count).

 

 

Parent Resources
New Summer Camp Opportunity for Strings Students!

SoCo Summer Strings is returning this summer! The camp will be hosted at South County Middle School weekdays from July 8th to 19th, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

The camp is open to all rising 5th through 9th grade students with at least one year of experience on the violin, viola, cello, or bass. Students will participate in two large ensemble rehearsals, an instrument-specific technique class, and a sectional each day.

You can find more information and registration for camp at www.schsorchestra.org/soco-summer-strings. Early registration is open until June 9th, so reserve your student’s spot soon!

 

Resources for Newly Registered Families

Being connected to your school community helps you stay informed and support your child’s success. Take some time to get familiar with the many resources and tools available to FCPS families, including:

• School Age Child Care (SACC) – This Fairfax County government program provides a safe and fun environment before and after school for elementary school-age children.
• FCPS Communications for Families – FCPS shares news and information to support student learning and promote family involvement.
• Family Engagement Resources – FCPS works to connect, strengthen, and support our families, schools, and communities.
• Do You Know About Family Liaisons?– Family liaisons serve as a link between families and schools. You may contact Melanie Crosby Hardy, our family liaison, at [email protected].

There’s an easy to follow five-step process outlined for parents registering their children for kindergarten. Be sure to register your child as soon as possible!

 

Register Your Children Online

Online registration is available for new and returning (re-enrolling) FCPS families! Apply today to help us plan for the 2024-25 school year.

 

FCPS Ombuds Provides Confidential Guidance

The Office of the Ombuds engages with families, students, and staff to offer resources and improve the experience of each and every member of the FCPS community. They work as an independent confidential resource to help get answers to questions, offer options to resolve concerns, and hear complaints regarding FCPS matters.

Anyone seeking assistance from the Office of the Ombuds may call 571-423-4014, email [email protected], visit their webpage, or submit a question. Ombuds staff do not change or make decisions, policies, or regulations; take sides; or provide legal advice.

 

Rec-PAC Is Now Registering for the Summer and Lane Will Be a Site!

Rec-PAC (Pretty Awesome Children), operated by Fairfax County Park Authority, is a six-week structured recreation program with emphasis on leisure skills designed for elementary school children.

Participants will have an opportunity to enjoy a wide variety of activities such as fun and fitness, indoor and outdoor games, team sports, nature, crafts, storytelling, sports festivals, talent shows and supervised play sessions. Each location has a ratio of 1 staff person to 18 participants. Lane will be a Rec-PAC site this summer.

Rec-PAC runs from Monday, June 24th through Thursday, August 1st. Each of the six weeks has its own theme with different themed activities happening throughout the week. You can sign your child up for any of the individual weeks or all of them!

Registration is now underway. Scholarships are available for families who qualify. You can find details in the Rec-PAC brochure.

 

Attention 6th Grade Parents: Summer VIP Camp Now Registering!

All rising middle schoolers are invited to attend a summer of fun and leisure with VIP Camp. VIP Camp — which takes place Monday, July 1st, to Thursday, August 1st — is designed to encourage teens to develop healthy and positive recreation interests and features a wide variety of leisure activities and programs. VIP Camp costs $100 to attend.

This camp is sponsored by Fairfax County Public Schools and Fairfax County’s Department of Neighborhood and Community Services. Students who will attend Hayfield and Twain Middle Schools will attend the VIP Camp at Sandburg Middle School. Use this link to register for that program.

Scholarships may be available for families struggling with financial hardship. Reach out to Sandburg’s after-school specialist for more information.

Space is limited so register soon! You can learn more at http://bit.ly/VIPcamp2024.

 

Free Webinars from the Family Resource Center COVID-19 (C19) Compensatory Services Partnership Between FCPS and Varsity Tutors

Join us for an information session about a new partnership between Fairfax County Schools (FCPS) and Varsity Tutors. This partnership will provide students with disabilities an additional opportunity to receive compensatory education as a result of the COVID-19 Pandemic in accordance with their IEP.

Tuesday, May 14, 2024, 10 to 11 a.m. OR Wednesday, May 15, 2024, 7 to 8 p.m. (choose one session)

Register for this event

 

Meet the Author Series: The Breakthrough Years by Ellen Galinsky

Child development expert Ellen Galinsky challenges widely held assumptions about adolescents and offers new ways for parents and others to better understand and interact with them in a way that helps them thrive.

Galinsky’s Shared Solutions Framework and Possibilities Mindset show you how to:

• turn daily conflicts into opportunities for problem-solving where both teens and parents feel listened to and respected
• encourage positive risk-taking in your child like standing up for themselves, making new friends, and helping their communities
• promote five essential executive function-based skills that can help them succeed now and in the future.

Join best-selling author Galinksy as she shares her latest research on raising thriving teens.

Friday, May 17, 2024, 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Register for this event

 

Behavior Solution Series for Secondary Families: Taming the Teenaged Brain

Navigate the rollercoaster of teenage emotions with our training on behavior strategies, tailored to support you at home during those challenging adolescent years. We will provide practical insights and proven techniques to foster understanding and communication with your teenager.

Friday, May 31, 2024, 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Register for this event

 

  Community Events & Activities

 

Hayfield Super Saturday Fun Finale

The Hayfield Class of 2026 invites students in grades 3 through 6 to join them in a celebration of FUN and games as the school year comes to an end at the Super Saturday Fun Finale. The event will be held in the Hayfield High School auxiliary gym from 8:30 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 18th and/or Saturday, June 1st. The cost is $20 per student per session. See the flyer for details and registration information.

  Techstravaganza STEM Event at TJ on May 18th!

Techstravaganza is a free, public, hands-on STEM activity fair for elementary and middle school students in Northern Virginia. In previous years, the event has included more than 4,500 students and 70 labs presenting STEM activities. The 20th annual Techstravaganza will be held on Saturday, May 18th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology in Annandale.

Slots fill up fast, so register today at https://tinyurl.com/techstrav24. Visit tjtechstrav.org for more information.

 

Save the Date for FCPS’ Summer Extravaganza

Don’t miss a day of family fun and learning at the FCPS Summer Extravaganza at Woodson High School on Saturday, June 1st from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Students will have the chance to engage in educational activities designed to spark curiosity and inspire growth.

Representatives from local businesses, Fairfax County Public Library, and the Fairfax County Park Authority are participating in the Summer Extravaganza. Community organizations, such as Neighborhood Community Services, will be at the event as well. All will have learning activities, tips, and helpful information for families. Enjoy face painting, food, music, a moon bounce, a petting zoo, storytime, and student performances — all at no cost!

Visit the Summer Extravaganza webpage for more details and register to attend. Registration is not required, but it's helpful for planning purposes.

 

7137 Beulah Street, Alexandria, VA 22315  |  Phone: 703.924.7700

Attendance: 703.924.7777  |  Web | Twitter

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletin en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى

  The Lion’s Roar April 26, 2024   Upcoming Events

• Thursday, 5/2 – SCA Spirit Day: “Animal Day” (wear something with an animal on it or animal print or bring in a stuffed animal)
• Thursday, 5/2 – 5th Grade Reading SOL Test
• Friday, 5/3 – Student Holiday/Teacher Workday – Students DO NOT report
• Monday, 5/6 – Tuesday, 5/17 – SCA drive for animal shelters
• Monday, 5/6 – 6th Grade Reading SOL Test
• Wednesday, 5/8 – Walk, Bike & Roll to School Day
• Wednesday, 5/8 – 3rd Grade Reading SOL Test
• Thursday, 5/9 – 4th Grade Reading SOL Test
• Friday, 5/10 – 5th Grade Science SOL Test
• Monday, 5/13 – 5th Grade Math SOL Test
• Tuesday, 5/14 – 3rd Grade Math SOL Test
• Tuesday, 5/14 & Wednesday, 5/15 – PTA Restaurant Nights at Smyrna
• Wednesday, 5/15 – 4th Grade Math SOL Test
• Friday, 5/17 – 6th Grade Math SOL Test
• Monday, 5/27 – Memorial Day Holiday, School and Office CLOSED
• Tuesday, 5/28 – Farewell Reception for families leaving Lane, 4:30 p.m.
• Wednesday, 5/29 – Strings Concert, 7 p.m.
• Thursday, 6/6 – Chorus Concert, 6:30 p.m.
• Friday, 6/7 – PTA Glow Party, 6 p.m.
• Wednesday, 6/12 – Last day of school, early dismissal at 2:05 p.m.

 

In This Issue

• SOL Testing Begins Next Week
• SCA Animal Shelter Drive Begins May 2nd; Kick-Off “Animal Day” Spirit Day
• Patrol Application Now Open for 2024-2025 School Year
• Help Wanted: Family Liaison
• Spring Walk, Bike and Roll to School Day Is Wednesday, May 8th!
• Teacher Appreciation Week Is Coming Soon, May 6th – 10th
• From the Shelves of the Lane Library: Fourth Quarter Overdue Notices

• April Is Austism Acceptance Month

• Cultural Holidays This Past Week

• Parent Resources: Parent information phone lines in multiple languages, summer camps
• Community Events & Activities: Techstravaganza

 

 

News & Notes
SOL Testing Begins Next Week

If you have a child in grades 3 through 6, please remember that required Virginia Standards of Learning (SOL) testing begins next week on Thursday, May 2nd. Here is the schedule:

• Thursday, May 2nd: 5th Grade Reading
• Monday, May 6th: 6th Grade Reading
• Wednesday, May 8th: 3rd Grade Reading
• Thursday, May 9th: 4th Grade Reading
• Friday, May 10th: 5th Grade Science
• Monday, May 13th: 5th Grade Math
• Tuesday, May 14th: 3rd Grade Math
• Wednesday, May 15th: 4th Grade Math
• Friday, May 17th: 6th Grade Math

You can help your children be physically prepared for testing by ensuring that they have a good night’s sleep the night before, eat a healthy breakfast in the morning, and come to school with a positive attitude. We also ask that you avoid scheduling appointments that will take your child out of school on test days. Make-up days will be available, but it’s best for students to take the tests on the scheduled day with their class. Retakes for certain students who qualify will start later in May.

If you have any questions about the SOLs or other academic concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact your child’s teacher.

 

SCA Animal Shelter Drive Begins May 2nd; Kick-Off “Animal Day” Spirit Day

From May 6th to May 17th, the SCA is going to do a collection drive to support animal shelters! Each grade will bring in specific items for the drive. (There are also items that anyone can bring in, if they already have them.) Items should be new (or gently used as noted on the flyer). Collection containers will be placed in the main hallway. See the flyer for more details and grade-level item assignments.

  Patrol Application Now Open for 2024-2025 School Year

Lane Safety Patrol applications are now open! Any current 4th or 5th grader may apply to be a Safety Patrol for the 2024-2025 school year. Just follow this link to apply.

Students and parents are encouraged to complete the application together so they are both aware of the requirements, duties, and responsibilities. Applications are due May 12th.  Students selected will be notified of acceptance the week of May 24th.

Please contact the Patrol Sponsor, Ms. Kurtenbach (Ms. K), with any questions at [email protected].

  Help Wanted: Family Liaison

We are looking for a new hourly family liaison to join our team to help connect with and support parents and families in the Lane community. The position would be about 7-8 hours per week on a flexible schedule. Fluency in Spanish is preferred. Pay rate varies with experience, beginning at $22.89 per hour. Contact Kelly Tolley at [email protected] for more information or to submit your resume.

 

 

Spring Walk, Bike and Roll to School Day Is Wednesday, May 8th!

Schools across Fairfax County will participate in Walk, Bike, and Roll to School Day on Wednesday, May 8th in an effort to promote physical activity and reduce traffic congestion and pollution near schools. Students and staff are encouraged to bike or walk to school and work, where safe to do so, that day. Parents are encouraged to accompany their children to school.

 

  Teacher Appreciation Week Is Coming Soon, May 6th – 10th

The week of May 6th through 10th is National Teacher Appreciation Week. At Lane, we celebrate Staff Appreciation Week, as we honor all the amazing adults who work so hard with our students every day. This includes not only classroom teachers but also specialists (art, music, P. E., etc.), resource teachers (special education, ESOL, reading, math, etc.), and instructional assistants.

If you would like to express your appreciation for the work your child’s teacher has done this year, we encourage you to do so. You don’t need to spend a lot of money, as the best gifts are often simple and free. The Lane PTA is planning special spirit days for the entire week with suggested tokens of appreciation. Stay tuned for more information coming soon!

  From the Shelves of the Lane Library: Fourth Quarter Overdue Notices

Dear Lane Readers,

Overdue notices were emailed out to families on Thursday, April 18th. Students who have books that were due on or before March 22nd should have received a notice.

Please do your best to look for these books and return them in good condition! It is also possible that books have been sent to school but have not yet made it to the library. If this is the case, apologies in advance for the crossed communication.

As a reminder, there are no fines for overdue books, however families are expected to pay the replacement cost for lost or damaged books.

Contact Sue Chozick, Librarian, at [email protected] with any questions.

 

April Is Autism Acceptance Month

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

 

Cultural Holidays This Past Week

Two cultural holidays occurred this past week: Passover and Theravada New Year.

Many Jewish communities in the United States celebrate Passover, a recognition of the deliverance of Jewish people from slavery in Egypt. Passover is also known as Pesah, Pesach, or the Feast of Unleavened Bread. 

Many Jewish families in the United States eat a ceremonial meal known as the Seder, which involves telling the story of the exodus from Egypt as well as eating various symbolic foods, such as meat of the paschal lamb and bitter herbs, recalling the harsh life of slavery. Learn more about Passover in NatGeo Kids.

In countries where Theravada Buddhism is the most dominant religion, New Year is celebrated for three days from the first full moon in April. Theravada means “the teachings of the elders.” 

Celebrations begin with people attending the local temple in the morning for chanting and meditation. In the afternoon they have a water festival in which they meet the Buddha image and pay respect to the elderly by watering their hands together. Building sandcastles is also one of the most popular activities during this day of celebration.

 

 

Parent Resources

 

Parent Information Phone Lines Available in Eight Languages

Parents/caregivers who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese may call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS. View the list of phone numbers.

 

Rec-PAC Is Now Registering for the Summer and Lane Will Be a Site!

Rec-PAC (Pretty Awesome Children), operated by Fairfax County Park Authority, is a six-week structured recreation program with emphasis on leisure skills designed for elementary school children.

Participants will have an opportunity to enjoy a wide variety of activities such as fun and fitness, indoor and outdoor games, team sports, nature, crafts, storytelling, sports festivals, talent shows and supervised play sessions. Each location has a ratio of 1 staff person to 18 participants. Lane will be a Rec-PAC site this summer.

Rec-PAC runs from Monday, June 24th through Thursday, August 1st. Each of the six weeks has its own theme with different themed activities happening throughout the week. You can sign your child up for any of the individual weeks or all of them!

Registration is now underway. Scholarships are available for families who qualify. You can find details in the Rec-PAC brochure.

 

Attention 6th Grade Parents: Summer VIP Camp Now Registering!

All rising middle schoolers are invited to attend a summer of fun and leisure with VIP Camp. VIP Camp — which takes place Monday, July 1st to Thursday, August 1st — is designed to encourage teens to develop healthy and positive recreation interests and features a wide variety of leisure activities and programs. VIP Camp costs $100 to attend.

This camp is sponsored by Fairfax County Public Schools and Fairfax County’s Department of Neighborhood and Community Services. Students who will attend Hayfield and Twain Middle Schools will attend the VIP Camp at Sandburg Middle School. Use this link to register for that program.

Scholarships may be available for families struggling with financial hardship. Reach out to Sandburg’s after-school specialist for more information.

Space is limited so register soon! You can learn more at http://bit.ly/VIPcamp2024.

 

 

Community Events & Activities

 

Techstravaganza STEM Event at TJ on May 18th!

Techstravaganza is a free, public, hands-on STEM activity fair for elementary and middle school students in Northern Virginia. In previous years, the event has included more than 4,500 students and 70 labs presenting STEM activities. The 20th annual Techstravaganza will be held on Saturday, May 18th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology in Annandale.

Slots fill up fast, so register today at https://tinyurl.com/techstrav24. Visit tjtechstrav.org for more information.

7137 Beulah Street, Alexandria, VA 22315  |  Phone: 703.924.7700

Attendance: 703.924.7777  |  Web | Twitter

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletin en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى

 

The Lion’s Roar April 19, 2024

 

Celebrating Talent, Diversity, and Strength!

Spring has definitely sprung, both in the weather outside and at Lane inside, where lots of activities are happening. This week at school we had a “Muffins with Military Lions” reception and “Purple Up!” Day to celebrate the strength and sacrifices of our young military-connected lions as well as “Walk in My Shoes” activities during P.E. classes, which allowed students to gain a broader understanding of the daily situations faced by some of their friends with developmental challenges and learning differences. Off site, Strings students celebrated their top-scoring work at the District 10 Solo and Ensemble Festival (all Lane students received the highest rating from the judges!), and 4th grade students joined our multiple abilities students at the Fairfax County Little Feet Meet, a Special Olympics sporting event where students with and without intellectual disabilities train together while building friendships and understanding.

Here are lots of photos from these events!

 

Month of the Military Child "Purple Up!" Celebration

 

Walk in My Shoes

 

District 10 Strings Solo and Ensemble Festival

 

Little Feet Meet

 

Upcoming Events

• Friday, 5/3 – Student Holiday/Teacher Workday – Students DO NOT report
• Monday, 5/27 – Memorial Day Holiday, School and Office CLOSED
• Wednesday, 5/29 – 4th Grade Strings Concert, 6 p.m.
• Wednesday, 5/29 – 5th & 6th Grade Band and Strings Concert, 7 p.m.
• Thursday, 6/6 – Chorus Concert, 6:30 p.m.
• Friday, 6/7 – PTA Glow Party, 6 p.m.
• Wednesday, 6/12 – Last day of school, early dismissal at 2:05 p.m.

 

 

In This Issue

• Patrol Application Now Open for 2024-2025 School Year
• Last Call for Military Family Pictures!
• From the Shelves of the Lane Library: Fourth Quarter Overdue Notices
• Celebrating Our Muslim and Arab American Families This Month
• PTA News: Thanks for all the support!
• Parent Resources: Family Summit, summer camps, and more!
• Community Events & Activities: Techstravaganza

 

  News & Notes   Patrol Application Now Open for 2024-2025 School Year

Lane Safety Patrol applications are now open! Any current 4th or 5th grader may apply to be a Safety Patrol for the 2024-2025 school year. Just follow this link to apply.

Students and parents are encouraged to complete the application together so they are both aware of the requirements, duties, and responsibilities. Applications are due May 12th.  Students selected will be notified of acceptance the week of May 24th.

Please contact the Patrol Sponsor, Ms. Kurtenbach (Ms. K), with any questions at [email protected].

  Last Call for Military Family Pictures!

We will be winding up our celebration of Month of the Military Child with a slide show featuring our military students. If you are a military family and would like us to include your child(ren) in the slide show, please email pictures to our family liaison, Melanie Crosby Hardy, at [email protected] by next Friday, April 26th. Please let us know that it is OK to use the family name in the show (i.e. – The Smith Family). The slide show will not be shared publicly; it will only be shown at school. Please also note that we will only use up to three photos per family in the presentation; you may send more, but we will choose only three.)

 

From the Shelves of the Lane Library: Fourth Quarter Overdue Notices

Dear Lane Readers,

Overdue notices were emailed out to families on Thursday, April 18th. Students who have books that were due on or before March 22nd should have received a notice.

Please do your best to look for these books and return them in good condition! It is also possible that books have been sent to school but have not yet made it to the library. If this is the case, apologies in advance for the crossed communication.

As a reminder, there are no fines for overdue books, however families are expected to pay the replacement cost for lost or damaged books.

Contact Sue Chozick, Librarian, at [email protected] with any questions.

 

Celebrating Our Muslim and Arab American Families This Month

April is Arab American Heritage Month and Muslim Heritage Month. Here at Lane, we would like to mark these recognition months in the two ways detailed below. There’s still time participate if your child is interested.

First, we invite all of our students who identify as Muslim or Arab or Arab American to share something from that culture with their Lane friends and families. Students are encouraged to bring in an item to put on display.

The item must be:

• Specific to an Arab or Muslim culture
• No larger than a lunchbox or heavier than 5 pounds
• Non-breakable (to protect the item when taking it back and forth to school)
• School-appropriate for elementary-aged students.

Sharp items or weapons of any kind are prohibited

Each item must be accompanied by a large index card or half-sheet of paper that includes the following information:

• Student’s name
• Student’s teacher’s name
• What the item is and/or where it is from
• One or two sentences about why this item is important to the student and/or how it relates to Arab or Muslim culture.

Items without written information will not be displayed. Please note that Lane and FCPS are not liable for loss of or damage to any item brought in to display.

Second, we would like to create two slide shows – one featuring our Arab and Arab American students and one featuring our Muslim students. (Students may be featured in both.) If you would like for us to include a picture of your child, please email it to our family liaison Melanie Crosby Hardy at [email protected] no later than Friday, April 26th. Please be sure to let us know which slide show(s) you would like to have the pictures included in.

We hope your student will participate and look forward to learning more about your family and culture!

 

 

PTA News

 

Thank You for All the Support!

The PTA would like to thank all Lane Lion families for their amazing support so far this month! The Kumo's Restaurant Nights this week were very well attended, and Walk in My Shoes literally would not have been possible without all the awesome volunteers who stepped up to help.

Watch for information on more PTA-sponsored events coming soon to wrap up this school year!

 

 

Parent Resources

 

Register Today for the FCPS Family Summit

Registration is open for the FCPS Family Summit, which will take place on Saturday, April 20th, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Marshall High School. The conference will cover topics that are helpful for all families such as raising resilient, independent children; forming meaningful connections with children; addressing big emotions; and the dangers of opioids and fentanyl. Participants may also join online sessions, which will provide supports for students with disabilities and their families.

Visit the Family Summit webpage to learn about the guest speakers and to register for the event. The theme — Safe, Supported, and Included — aligns with Goal 2 of FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan.

Launching on April 20th, as a part of the 2024 Family Summit, the FCPS Department of Special Services is sponsoring an online Special Education Resource Fair.

This virtual event is a must-visit for families, educators, and community members looking to build their skills in supporting children with disabilities.

• Explore engaging, asynchronous videos, tailor-made to provide innovative support strategies.
• Visit the online exhibit hall to discover resources from FCPS, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations, all dedicated to championing students with disabilities.
• Join us in celebrating the 2024 Advisory Committee for Students with Disabilities (ACSD) First Class Award winners who embody excellence in their special education work, create a positive impact for students with and without disabilities and foster inclusivity for all students.

The link to the Special Education Resource Fair goes live on Saturday, April 20th and can be found on the 2024 Family Summit webpage.

 

Rec-PAC Is Now Registering for the Summer and Lane Will Be a Site!

Rec-PAC (Pretty Awesome Children), operated by Fairfax County Park Authority, is a six-week structured recreation program with emphasis on leisure skills designed for elementary school children.

Participants will have an opportunity to enjoy a wide variety of activities such as fun and fitness, indoor and outdoor games, team sports, nature, crafts, storytelling, sports festivals, talent shows and supervised play sessions. Each location has a ratio of 1 staff person to 18 participants. Lane will be a Rec-PAC site this summer.

Rec-PAC runs from Monday, June 24th through Thursday, August 1st. Each of the six weeks has its own theme with different themed activities happening throughout the week. You can sign your child up for any of the individual weeks or all of them!

Registration is now underway. Scholarships are available for families who qualify. You can find details in the Rec-PAC brochure.

 

 

Attention 6th Grade Parents: Summer VIP Camp Now Registering!

All rising middle schoolers are invited to attend a summer of fun and leisure with VIP Camp. VIP Camp — which takes place Monday, July 1st to Thursday, August 1st — is designed to encourage teens to develop healthy and positive recreation interests and features a wide variety of leisure activities and programs. VIP Camp costs $100 to attend.

This camp is sponsored by Fairfax County Public Schools and Fairfax County’s Department of Neighborhood and Community Services. Students who will attend Hayfield and Twain Middle Schools will attend the VIP Camp at Sandburg Middle School. Use this link to register for that program.

Scholarships may be available for families struggling with financial hardship. Reach out to Sandburg’s after-school specialist for more information.

Space is limited so register soon! You can learn more at http://bit.ly/VIPcamp2024.

 

 

Community Events & Activities

 

Techstravaganza STEM Event at TJ on May 18th!

Techstravaganza is a free, public, hands-on STEM activity fair for elementary and middle school students in Northern Virginia. In previous years, the event has included more than 4,500 students and 70 labs presenting STEM activities. The 20th annual Techstravaganza will be held on Saturday, May 18th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology in Annandale.

Slots fill up fast, so register today at https://tinyurl.com/techstrav24. Visit tjtechstrav.org for more information.

7137 Beulah Street, Alexandria, VA 22315  |  Phone: 703.924.7700

Attendance: 703.924.7777  |  Web | Twitter

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletin en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى

 

Last Day to Order Yearbooks Is TOMORROW!

The 2024 Lane Yearbook is still available for purchase online. The cost is now $20 per book. (Extra add-on items are available at an additional cost.)

If you would like for your child to have a yearbook, please order now. There is no guarantee that surplus books will be available for purchase after this final deadline.

Ordering is simple: Just go to http://ybpay.lifetouch.com, put in yearbook ID code 10217424, and pay with your credit card.

Don’t miss your chance to get this special memento of the school year!

7137 Beulah Street, Alexandria, VA 22315  |  Phone: 703.924.7700

Attendance: 703.924.7777  |  Web | Twitter

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletin en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى

  The Lion’s Roar April 12, 2024

 

A “Sun-sational” Solar Eclipse!

Without a doubt, the highlight of this week was the solar eclipse on Monday. Classes across the school took a break in classroom learning to go outside and get a lesson from the universe as they watched (safely, of course!) the sun and moon put on a very special show in the sky.

 

Upcoming Events

• Monday, 4/15 – “Muffins with Military Lions” Month of the Military Child Celebration Muffin Exchange, 8:30 a.m. All families welcome!
  
• Tuesday, 4/16 & Wednesday, 4/17 – PTA Restaurant Days at Kumo Asian Bistro, Manchester Lakes (all day)
• Wednesday, 4/17 – “Purple Up!” Day for Military Kids – wear purple to show your support for our military students
• Friday, 4/19 – Integrated Reading and Writing (IRW) SOL Test for 5th Grade
• Friday, 4/19 – PTA “Play & Chat” for Lane families of all abilities! 4:30 p.m., Main Playground
• Friday, 5/3 – CORRECTED DATE! Student Holiday/Teacher Workday – Students DO NOT report

 

In This Issue

• Month of the Military Child Morning Reception on Monday; “Purple Up! Day” on Wednesday
• Photos Needed for Military-Student/Family Slide Show
• From the Shelves of the Lane Library: Fourth Quarter Overdue Notices
• Celebrating Arab- and Muslim-American Families
• Lane Is Looking for a Few Good Teachers! Could You Be One of Them?
• Parent Resources: Family Summit, summer camps, and more!
• Community Events & Activities: Techstravaganza
• FCPS News & Announcements: Budget update, school health services survey

 

News & Notes

 

 

Month of the Military Child Morning Reception on Monday; “Purple Up! Day” on Wednesday

April is the Month of the Military Child (MOMC), and here at Lane we are planning several special activities to celebrate the strength, spirit, and resilience of the many young military-connected lions we have in our community. Nearly 25 percent of our student body is military-connected.

On Monday morning, April 15th, at 8:30 a.m., we will host a “Muffins with Military Lions” reception to kick off “Purple Up! Week” (a nationwide celebration dedicated to military children). In the past, this reception has been for military families only, but we recognize that all Lane Lions are connected to these students as classmates, friends, neighbors, and more! So this year, all Lane Lions – military and non-military – and their families are welcome!

We ask that each family bring a dozen mini muffins or half a dozen full-size muffins to share with others. Muffins can be store-bought or homemade. We just ask that if you make your own you provide an ingredients list so that our families with allergies can choose safely. If you’d like join us that morning, please fill out this RSVP form and tell us what you’ll bring.

On Wednesday, April 17th – celebrated across the nation as “Purple Up! Day” – we encourage all students and staff to wear purple to show their support for military kids and honor their strength and sacrifices as members of military-connected families. Why purple? Purple is the color that symbolizes all branches of the military, as it is the combination of Army green, Coast Guard blue, Air Force blue, Navy blue, Space Force dark blue, and Marine red. We hope your children will join other Lane students and staff in “purpling up” their wardrobes on Wednesday! 

In addition to these events, we are also encouraging our military-connected students to share their experiences as military children with their classmates during Morning Meeting throughout this month. If your child would like to participate, please sign up here.

 

Photos Needed for Military Student/Family Slide Show

To end our Month of the Military Child activities, we will create a special slide show featuring our military students! If you are a military family and would like us to include your child(ren) in the slide show, please email pictures (no more than three, please) to our family liaison, Melanie Crosby Hardy, at [email protected].

When you send the pictures, please let us know that it is OK to use the family name in the show (i.e. – The Smith Family). The slide show will not be shared publicly; it will only be shown at school.

Pictures must be received by Friday, April 26th to be included in the slide show.

From the Shelves of the Lane Library: Fourth Quarter Overdue Notices

Dear Lane Readers,

With the start of fourth quarter, please note that the library will be emailing overdue notices on Thursday, April 18th. Students who have books that were due on or before March 22nd will receive a notice.

Please do your best to look for these books and return them in good condition! It is also possible that books have been sent to school but have not yet made it to the library. If this is the case, apologies in advance for the crossed communication.

As a reminder, there are no fines for overdue books, however families are expected to pay the replacement cost for lost or damaged books.

Contact Sue Chozick, Librarian, at [email protected] with any questions.

 

Celebrating Our Muslim and Arab American Families This Month

Throughout April people across the United States celebrate National Arab American Heritage Month and Muslim American Heritage Month. These histories are a foundational part of American history. These month-long recognitions give us an opportunity to honor diverse and important stories in our school community.

National Arab American Heritage Month

FCPS is proud to celebrate National Arab American Heritage Month in April. This special month provides an opportunity to recognize the history and valuable contributions of Arab Americans. Arab Americans have ancestry in one of the world’s 22 Arab nations, which are located from northern Africa through western Asia. 

The people of these nations are ethnically, politically, and religiously diverse but share a common cultural and linguistic heritage.

Muslim American Heritage Month

Muslim American Heritage Month is a time for celebrating the history, contributions, culture, and an enhanced understanding of the diverse population of Muslim Americans. View the Fairfax County School Board resolution honoring Muslim American Heritage Month.

Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.

 

Here at Lane, we would like to mark these recognition months in two ways:

First, we invite all of our students who identify as Muslim or Arab/Arab American to share something from that culture with their Lane friends and families. Students are encouraged to bring in an item to put on display.

The item must be:

• Specific to an Arab or Muslim culture
• No larger than a lunchbox or heavier than 5 pounds
• Non-breakable (to protect the item when taking it back and forth to school)
• School-appropriate for elementary-aged students.

Sharp items or weapons of any kind are prohibited

Each item must be accompanied by a large index card or half-sheet of paper that includes the following information:

• Student’s name
• Student’s teacher’s name
• What the item is and/or where it is from
• One or two sentences about why this item is important to the student and/or how it relates to Arab or Muslim culture.

Items without written information will not be displayed. Please note that Lane and FCPS are not liable for loss of or damage to any item brought in to display.

Second, we would like to create two slide shows – one featuring our Arab and Arab American students and one featuring our Muslim students. (Students may be featured in both.) If you would like for us to include a picture of your child, please email it to our family liaison Melanie Crosby Hardy at [email protected] no later than Friday, April 26th. Please be sure to let us know which slide show(s) you would like to have the pictures included in.

We hope your student will participate and look forward to learning more about your family and culture!

 

Lane Is Looking for a Few Good Teachers! Could You Be One of them?

 

PTA News

 

Join Us at Kumo Asian Bistro Tuesday, April 16th & Wednesday, April 17th!

Please join the Lane PTA for its April Restaurant Days at Kumo Asian Bistro in the Manchester Lakes shopping center on Tuesday, April 16th, or Wednesday, April 17th (or both!) A percentage of sales generated by Lane families for the entire day will be donated back to our school! Both dine-in and takeout orders count. Be sure to present the flyer sent home in Wednesday Folders to your server. For online orders, write Lane as part of your name (“Name-Lane”). You can order or just preview the menu online at kumoasianbistrova.com.

Thanks for supporting the Lane PTA and our local restaurants!

 

  Parent Resources

 

Register Today for the FCPS Family Summit

Registration is open for the FCPS Family Summit, which will take place on Saturday, April 20th, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Marshall High School. The conference will cover topics that are helpful for all families such as raising resilient, independent children; forming meaningful connections with children; addressing big emotions; and the dangers of opioids and fentanyl. Participants may also join online sessions, which will provide supports for students with disabilities and their families.

Visit the Family Summit webpage to learn about the guest speakers and to register for the event. The theme — Safe, Supported, and Included — aligns with Goal 2 of FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan.

 

Rec-PAC Is Now Registering for the Summer and Lane Will Be a Site!

Rec-PAC (Pretty Awesome Children), operated by Fairfax County Park Authority, is a six-week structured recreation program with emphasis on leisure skills designed for elementary school children.

Participants will have an opportunity to enjoy a wide variety of activities such as fun and fitness, indoor and outdoor games, team sports, nature, crafts, storytelling, sports festivals, talent shows and supervised play sessions. Each location has a ratio of 1 staff person to 18 participants. Lane will be a Rec-PAC site this summer.

Rec-PAC runs from Monday, June 24th through Thursday, August 1st. Each of the six weeks has its own theme with different themed activities happening throughout the week. You can sign your child up for any of the individual weeks or all of them!

Registration is now underway. Scholarships are available for families who qualify. You can find details in the Rec-PAC brochure.

 

 

Attention 6th Grade Parents: Summer VIP Camp Now Registering!

All rising middle schoolers are invited to attend a summer of fun and leisure with VIP Camp. VIP Camp — which takes place Monday, July 1st to Thursday, August 1st — is designed to encourage teens to develop healthy and positive recreation interests and features a wide variety of leisure activities and programs. VIP Camp costs $100 to attend.

This camp is sponsored by Fairfax County Public Schools and Fairfax County’s Department of Neighborhood and Community Services. Students who will attend Hayfield and Twain Middle Schools will attend the VIP Camp at Sandburg Middle School. Use this link to register for that program.

Scholarships may be available for families struggling with financial hardship. Reach out to Sandburg’s after-school specialist for more information.

Space is limited so register soon! You can learn more at http://bit.ly/VIPcamp2024.

 

Mental Health in Childhood

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are associated with children’s physical and mental health. Mental health disorders such as ADHD and anxiety, which often occur together, are the most common disorders diagnosed in children.

Anxiety is feelings of worry, apprehension, or dread that something bad is going to happen. Children diagnosed with ADHD may have trouble paying attention and/or controlling impulsive behaviors or be overly active. Early diagnosis and appropriate services for children and their families can make a difference in the lives of children with mental health disorders.

Anxiety-related triggers are lonely and frightening emotional responses related to situations, persons, places, or objects. Today’s sources of stress for our students include increased coursework and graduation requirements, extracurricular activities, household responsibilities, and social media. Social media has been a great way to increase connection and communication, but for our young people it contributes to shorter attention spans and information overload. Signs of anxiety include appearing worried, irritable or nervous, restlessness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, along with physical symptoms such as sleeping problems, headaches, and stomach aches.

It is understandable for a parent to be worried because figuring out what to do is hard. Here are five simple ways to respond to teens with anxiety:

1. Recognize warning signs.
2. Guide your child to take a few deep breaths to slow things down.
3. Make sure your child understands you are available if they need to talk.
4. Acknowledge your child’s feelings and avoid downplaying situations or issues.
5. Help them come up with ways to deal with the situation next time.

For general questions about the FCPS Substance Abuse Prevention Program, please contact the Office of Student Safety & Wellness at 571-423-4270.

For further Information and support, contact Bryan Villalobos, Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist, at [email protected].

Sources & Resources

• The Anxiety Toolkit for Teens
• Talk, They Hear You
• Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences

  Upcoming Free Webinars from the Family Resource Center

Registration for April webinars sponsored by the Family Resource Center is now underway! Here are two offerings:

 

Meet the Author Series: Gifted and Distractible with Julie Skolnick

Tuesday, April 16, 2024, 7 – 8 p.m.

Does your child exhibit giftedness and behavioral issues like meltdowns, power struggles, and difficulty relating to peers? Are they out-of-the-box thinkers requiring different teaching and learning methods? 

Join us for a discussion with author Julie Skolnick about her innovative and timely book for families of twice-exceptional children.

Register for this event

 

Behavior Solution Series: Proactive Strategies for Effective Communication

Friday, April 19, 2024, 10 – 11:30 a.m.

We will equip you with strategies for navigating the teen years. Uncover the secrets to fostering open communication, building trust, and transforming challenges into opportunities for growth.

Register for this event

 

 

Community Events & Activities

 

Techstravaganza STEM Event at TJ on May 18th!

Techstravaganza is a free, public, hands-on STEM activity fair for elementary and middle school students in Northern Virginia. In previous years, the event has included more than 4,500 students and 70 labs presenting STEM activities. The 20th annual Techstravaganza will be held on Saturday, May 18th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology in Annandale.

Slots fill up fast, so register today at https://tinyurl.com/techstrav24. Visit tjtechstrav.org for more information.

  FCPS News & Announcements

 

Give Your Feedback on the Budget

We are now in the middle of the annual budget process, which includes opportunities for you to give feedback:

• Tuesday, April 16th, through Thursday, April 18th: The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors conducts public hearings on the county budget. Sign up to speak.
• Tuesday, May 7th: The County Board of Supervisors adopts its budget, tax rates, and transfer amount to FCPS.
• Tuesday, May 14th: The School Board holds a public hearing on the FCPS budget.
• Thursday, May 23rd: The School Board adopts FCPS’ approved budget.

Learn more about the FCPS FY 2025 Advertised Budget and see the full Budget Development Calendar.

 

School Health Services Satisfaction Survey

The Fairfax County Health Department and FCPS School Health Services invite parents/caregivers to participate in a survey on the level of satisfaction with support provided to your school community by School Health Services.

The survey takes about five minutes to complete and is open until Friday, April 26th. Your feedback can help to improve school health services.

 

7137 Beulah Street, Alexandria, VA 22315  |  Phone: 703.924.7700

Attendance: 703.924.7777  |  Web | Twitter

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletin en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى

The Lion’s Roar April 12, 2024

 

A “Sun-sational” Solar Eclipse!

Without a doubt, the highlight of this week was the solar eclipse on Tuesday. Classes across the school took a break in classroom learning to go outside and get a lesson from the universe as they watched (safely, of course!) the sun and moon put on a very special show in the sky.

 

Upcoming Events

• Monday, 4/15 – “Muffins with Military Lions” Month of the Military Child Celebration Muffin Exchange, 8:30 a.m. All families welcome!
  
• Tuesday, 4/16 & Wednesday, 4/17 – PTA Restaurant Days at Kumo Asian Bistro, Manchester Lakes (all day)
• Wednesday, 4/17 – “Purple Up!” Day for Military Kids – wear purple to show your support for our military students
• Friday, 4/19 - Integrated Reading and Writing (IRW) SOL Test for 5th Grade
• Friday, 4/19 – PTA “Play & Chat” for Lane families of all abilities! 4:30 p.m., Main Playground
• Tuesday, 4/30 – Full-time AAP meeting for parents of eligible students, 6 p.m., Library
• Friday, 5/3 – CORRECTED DATE! Student Holiday/Teacher Workday – Students DO NOT report

 

In This Issue

• Month of the Military Child Morning Reception on Monday; “Purple Up! Day” on Wednesday
• Photos Needed for Military-Student/Family Slide Show
• From the Shelves of the Lane Library: Fourth Quarter Overdue Notices
• Celebrating Arab- and Muslim-American Families
• Lane Is Looking for a Few Good Teachers! Could You Be One of Them?
• Parent Resources: Family Summit, summer camps, and more!
• Community Events & Activities: Techstravaganza
• FCPS News & Announcements: Budget update, school health services survey

 

News & Notes

 

 

Month of the Military Child Morning Reception on Monday; “Purple Up! Day” on Wednesday

April is the Month of the Military Child (MOMC), and here at Lane we are planning several special activities to celebrate the strength, spirit, and resilience of the many young military-connected lions we have in our community. Nearly 25 percent of our student body is military-connected.

On Monday morning, April 15th, at 8:30 a.m., we will host a “Muffins with Military Lions” reception to kick off “Purple Up! Week” (a nationwide celebration dedicated to military children). In the past, this reception has been for military families only, but we recognize that all Lane Lions are connected to these students as classmates, friends, neighbors, and more! So this year, all Lane Lions – military and non-military – and their families are welcome!

We ask that each family bring a dozen mini muffins or half a dozen full-size muffins to share with others. Muffins can be store-bought or homemade. We just ask that if you make your own you provide an ingredients list so that our families with allergies can choose safely. If you’d like join us that morning, please fill out this RSVP form and tell us what you’ll bring.

On Wednesday, April 17th – celebrated across the nation as “Purple Up! Day” – we encourage all students and staff to wear purple to show their support for military kids and honor their strength and sacrifices as members of military-connected families. Why purple? Purple is the color that symbolizes all branches of the military, as it is the combination of Army green, Coast Guard blue, Air Force blue, Navy blue, Space Force dark blue, and Marine red. We hope your children will join other Lane students and staff in “purpling up” their wardrobes on Wednesday! 

In addition to these events, we are also encouraging our military-connected students to share their experiences as military children with their classmates during Morning Meeting throughout this month. If your child would like to participate, please sign up here.

 

Photos Needed for Military Student/Family Slide Show

To end our Month of the Military Child activities, we will create a special slide show featuring our military students! If you are a military family and would like us to include your child(ren) in the slide show, please email pictures (no more than three, please) to our family liaison, Melanie Crosby Hardy, at [email protected].

When you send the pictures, please let us know that it is OK to use the family name in the show (i.e. – The Smith Family). The slide show will not be shared publicly; it will only be shown at school.

Pictures must be received by Friday, April 26th to be included in the slide show.

From the Shelves of the Lane Library: Fourth Quarter Overdue Notices

Dear Lane Readers,

With the start of fourth quarter, please note that the library will be emailing overdue notices on Thursday, April 18th. Students who have books that were due on or before March 22nd will receive a notice.

Please do your best to look for these books and return them in good condition! It is also possible that books have been sent to school but have not yet made it to the library. If this is the case, apologies in advance for the crossed communication.

As a reminder, there are no fines for overdue books, however families are expected to pay the replacement cost for lost or damaged books.

Contact Sue Chozick, Librarian, at [email protected] with any questions.

 

Celebrating Our Muslim and Arab American Families This Month

Throughout April people across the United States celebrate National Arab American Heritage Month and Muslim American Heritage Month. These histories are a foundational part of American history. These month-long recognitions give us an opportunity to honor diverse and important stories in our school community.

National Arab American Heritage Month

FCPS is proud to celebrate National Arab American Heritage Month in April. This special month provides an opportunity to recognize the history and valuable contributions of Arab Americans. Arab Americans have ancestry in one of the world’s 22 Arab nations, which are located from northern Africa through western Asia. 

The people of these nations are ethnically, politically, and religiously diverse but share a common cultural and linguistic heritage.

Muslim American Heritage Month

Muslim American Heritage Month is a time for celebrating the history, contributions, culture, and an enhanced understanding of the diverse population of Muslim Americans. View the Fairfax County School Board resolution honoring Muslim American Heritage Month.

Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.

 

Here at Lane, we would like to mark these recognition months in two ways:

First, we invite all of our students who identify as Muslim or Arab/Arab American to share something from that culture with their Lane friends and families. Students are encouraged to bring in an item to put on display.

The item must be:

• Specific to an Arab or Muslim culture
• No larger than a lunchbox or heavier than 5 pounds
• Non-breakable (to protect the item when taking it back and forth to school)
• School-appropriate for elementary-aged students.

Sharp items or weapons of any kind are prohibited

Each item must be accompanied by a large index card or half-sheet of paper that includes the following information:

• Student’s name
• Student’s teacher’s name
• What the item is and/or where it is from
• One or two sentences about why this item is important to the student and/or how it relates to Arab or Muslim culture.

Items without written information will not be displayed. Please note that Lane and FCPS are not liable for loss of or damage to any item brought in to display.

Second, we would like to create two slide shows – one featuring our Arab and Arab American students and one featuring our Muslim students. (Students may be featured in both.) If you would like for us to include a picture of your child, please email it to our family liaison Melanie Crosby Hardy at [email protected] no later than Friday, April 26th. Please be sure to let us know which slide show(s) you would like to have the pictures included in.

We hope your student will participate and look forward to learning more about your family and culture!

 

Lane Is Looking for a Few Good Teachers! Could You Be One of them?

 

PTA News

 

Join Us at Kumo Asian Bistro Tuesday, April 16th & Wednesday, April 17th!

Please join the Lane PTA for its April Restaurant Days at Kumo Asian Bistro in the Manchester Lakes shopping center on Tuesday, April 16th, or Wednesday, April 17th (or both!) A percentage of sales generated by Lane families for the entire day will be donated back to our school! Both dine-in and takeout orders count. Be sure to present the flyer sent home in Wednesday Folders to your server. For online orders, write Lane as part of your name (“Name-Lane”). You can order or just preview the menu online at kumoasianbistrova.com.

Thanks for supporting the Lane PTA and our local restaurants!

 

  Parent Resources

 

Register Today for the FCPS Family Summit

Registration is open for the FCPS Family Summit, which will take place on Saturday, April 20th, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Marshall High School. The conference will cover topics that are helpful for all families such as raising resilient, independent children; forming meaningful connections with children; addressing big emotions; and the dangers of opioids and fentanyl. Participants may also join online sessions, which will provide supports for students with disabilities and their families.

Visit the Family Summit webpage to learn about the guest speakers and to register for the event. The theme — Safe, Supported, and Included — aligns with Goal 2 of FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan.

 

Rec-PAC Is Now Registering for the Summer and Lane Will Be a Site!

Rec-PAC (Pretty Awesome Children), operated by Fairfax County Park Authority, is a six-week structured recreation program with emphasis on leisure skills designed for elementary school children.

Participants will have an opportunity to enjoy a wide variety of activities such as fun and fitness, indoor and outdoor games, team sports, nature, crafts, storytelling, sports festivals, talent shows and supervised play sessions. Each location has a ratio of 1 staff person to 18 participants. Lane will be a Rec-PAC site this summer.

Rec-PAC runs from Monday, June 24th through Thursday, August 1st. Each of the six weeks has its own theme with different themed activities happening throughout the week. You can sign your child up for any of the individual weeks or all of them!

Registration is now underway. Scholarships are available for families who qualify. You can find details in the Rec-PAC brochure.

 

 

Attention 6th Grade Parents: Summer VIP Camp Now Registering!

All rising middle schoolers are invited to attend a summer of fun and leisure with VIP Camp. VIP Camp — which takes place Monday, July 1st to Thursday, August 1st — is designed to encourage teens to develop healthy and positive recreation interests and features a wide variety of leisure activities and programs. VIP Camp costs $100 to attend.

This camp is sponsored by Fairfax County Public Schools and Fairfax County’s Department of Neighborhood and Community Services. Students who will attend Hayfield and Twain Middle Schools will attend the VIP Camp at Sandburg Middle School. Use this link to register for that program.

Scholarships may be available for families struggling with financial hardship. Reach out to Sandburg’s after-school specialist for more information.

Space is limited so register soon! You can learn more at http://bit.ly/VIPcamp2024.

 

Mental Health in Childhood

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are associated with children’s physical and mental health. Mental health disorders such as ADHD and anxiety, which often occur together, are the most common disorders diagnosed in children.

Anxiety is feelings of worry, apprehension, or dread that something bad is going to happen. Children diagnosed with ADHD may have trouble paying attention and/or controlling impulsive behaviors or be overly active. Early diagnosis and appropriate services for children and their families can make a difference in the lives of children with mental health disorders.

Anxiety-related triggers are lonely and frightening emotional responses related to situations, persons, places, or objects. Today’s sources of stress for our students include increased coursework and graduation requirements, extracurricular activities, household responsibilities, and social media. Social media has been a great way to increase connection and communication, but for our young people it contributes to shorter attention spans and information overload. Signs of anxiety include appearing worried, irritable or nervous, restlessness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, along with physical symptoms such as sleeping problems, headaches, and stomach aches.

It is understandable for a parent to be worried because figuring out what to do is hard. Here are five simple ways to respond to teens with anxiety:

1. Recognize warning signs.
2. Guide your child to take a few deep breaths to slow things down.
3. Make sure your child understands you are available if they need to talk.
4. Acknowledge your child’s feelings and avoid downplaying situations or issues.
5. Help them come up with ways to deal with the situation next time.

For general questions about the FCPS Substance Abuse Prevention Program, please contact the Office of Student Safety & Wellness at 571-423-4270.

For further Information and support, contact Bryan Villalobos, Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist, at [email protected].

Sources & Resources

• The Anxiety Toolkit for Teens
• Talk, They Hear You
• Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences

  Upcoming Free Webinars from the Family Resource Center

Registration for April webinars sponsored by the Family Resource Center is now underway! Here are two offerings:

 

Meet the Author Series: Gifted and Distractible with Julie Skolnick

Tuesday, April 16, 2024, 7 – 8 p.m.

Does your child exhibit giftedness and behavioral issues like meltdowns, power struggles, and difficulty relating to peers? Are they out-of-the-box thinkers requiring different teaching and learning methods? 

Join us for a discussion with author Julie Skolnick about her innovative and timely book for families of twice-exceptional children.

Register for this event

 

Behavior Solution Series: Proactive Strategies for Effective Communication

Friday, April 19, 2024, 10 – 11:30 a.m.

We will equip you with strategies for navigating the teen years. Uncover the secrets to fostering open communication, building trust, and transforming challenges into opportunities for growth.

Register for this event

 

 

Community Events & Activities

 

Techstravaganza STEM Event at TJ on May 18th!

Techstravaganza is a free, public, hands-on STEM activity fair for elementary and middle school students in Northern Virginia. In previous years, the event has included more than 4,500 students and 70 labs presenting STEM activities. The 20th annual Techstravaganza will be held on Saturday, May 18th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology in Annandale.

Slots fill up fast, so register today at https://tinyurl.com/techstrav24. Visit tjtechstrav.org for more information.

  FCPS News & Announcements

 

Give Your Feedback on the Budget

We are now in the middle of the annual budget process, which includes opportunities for you to give feedback:

• Tuesday, April 16th, through Thursday, April 18th: The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors conducts public hearings on the county budget. Sign up to speak.
• Tuesday, May 7th: The County Board of Supervisors adopts its budget, tax rates, and transfer amount to FCPS.
• Tuesday, May 14th: The School Board holds a public hearing on the FCPS budget.
• Thursday, May 23rd: The School Board adopts FCPS’ approved budget.

Learn more about the FCPS FY 2025 Advertised Budget and see the full Budget Development Calendar.

 

School Health Services Satisfaction Survey

The Fairfax County Health Department and FCPS School Health Services invite parents/caregivers to participate in a survey on the level of satisfaction with support provided to your school community by School Health Services.

The survey takes about five minutes to complete and is open until Friday, April 26th. Your feedback can help to improve school health services.

 

7137 Beulah Street, Alexandria, VA 22315  |  Phone: 703.924.7700

Attendance: 703.924.7777  |  Web | Twitter