Good afternoon, Holmes Families!

Three quarters down and just one to go!  Yesterday marked the last day of 3rd quarter, and we used the early release day to give students an Activity Day with an extended recess and other fun and motivational activities.  

I hope that you will take some time to read through this complete newsletter, because it is FULL of important and helpful information for families for the current school year, the summer, and the upcoming year.  

8th Grade End of Year Events 

It's time to plan for the 8th grade celebration!  Middle schools in FCPS do not have graduations, but we do have end-of-year events to celebrate our 8th graders as they transition from middle school to high school.  If you have an 8th grader, save these two important dates:

• Friday, June 9th, 7-9 pm: 8th Grade Celebration/Party (all 8th grade students who are in good standing are invited)
• Thursday, June 15th, 8-9 am: 8th Grade Awards Ceremony (some 8th grade students will be selected to receive awards; all 8th graders will be invited to attend the ceremony)

We need your help as we plan for the 8th grade celebration!  Last year, our parent volunteers made the 8th grade celebration an absolute success and exceeded our expectations!  We already have the DJ secured, and we just need help with some of the details.  If you would be willing to volunteer your time, please email me at @email.  We will need help with food & drinks, decorations, and games/activities for students.  If you are not able to give your time, that's okay!  We rely on donations for this event, and we are in the process of setting up two items in our store in MySchoolBucks for this purpose.  A small donation of $5 for your 8th grader's "ticket" is helpful, or if you would like to donate more, that option is also available. 

Next week, we will ask 8th graders to share ideas for the theme of the 8th grade dance (last year was "Under the Sea"), and they will all have the chance to vote.  So much more to come!

Eid al-Fitr

Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the Muslim holy month of fasting, and is celebrated during the first three days of Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic calendar. Muslims congregate that morning for Eid prayers. It is a time of official receptions and private visits, when friends greet one another, presents are given, new clothes are worn, and the graves of relatives are visited. The most common way to wish someone a Happy Eid al-Fitr is Eid Mubarak, which means “blessed feast” (or festival). Read more at Britannica.com. 

Many Orthodox Christians in the United States celebrate Easter Day on April 16 in the Gregorian calendar. It is a time to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who they believe to be the son of God. Learn more about Easter in NatGeo Kids.

Prayer/Reflection Rooms at Holmes MS

As we await more specific guidelines from FCPS around prayer/reflection rooms to be communicated, I wanted to send a reminder about our guidelines at Holmes.  Please see the flyer below for details about prayer/reflection rooms at Holmes.  We are able to maintain the three spaces for the remainder of this year along with the other guidelines that we communicated earlier in the year. 

There is one change: If students would like to use the prayer/reflection room during instructional time, their parents/caregivers must provide a written request for that accommodation.  If you would like to request that accommodation for your student, please submit this form to me at @email and specify what time of day you are requesting.  I will respond in writing to your request. 

Families of 8th Graders Who Will Be Attending Edison High School Next Year

There will be a Hello High School orientation for rising 9th grade students this summer at Edison High School. Students will have the opportunity to tour Edison, meet a few of their teachers for next year and participate in a Q & A panel with current Edison students. More information to come.

Family Coffee - 4/18, 9-10am

Please join our next Parent Coffee on Tuesday, April 18th at 9-10am. 

Topic: DRUG AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE PREVENTION FOR YOUTH

Language interpretation will be available for in-person and virtual participants. 

Zoom Link https://myfcpsk12.zoom.us/j/99931570547

Here are today's newsletter topics:

Holmes Updates

• Student Services Information
• 2022-23 Blue/White Calendar
• 2022-23 Bell Schedule
• After School Schedule Next Week
• Holmes MS PTA
• From Ms. Oncho, Our Family Liaison
• SOL Testing Window 
• Important Upcoming Dates
• How to Stay Connected to Holmes MS

FCPS & Community Updates

• Parent Information Line Available in Eight Languages
• Community Meeting on the Dangers of Fentanyl
• Medicaid Enrollment Underway
• No-Cost Mental Health Teletherapy for Students
• Proposed Updates to the Student Rights and Responsibilities  Document
• View Updated Draft Goals for FCPS’ New Strategic Plan
• Taste of Annandale community festival 
• Upcoming Webinars and Events for Caregivers
• Summer Camps & Learning Opportunities
• Stay Connected with FCPS

Please feel free to reach out and let us know what questions you have.  Thank you, and have a wonderful weekend!

Sincerely,

Margaret Barnes

Proud Principal, Holmes MS

@email

#TeamHolmes

HOLMES UPDATES

Student Services Information

2022-23 Blue/White Calendar

From Mr. Kruk, our After School Specialist

After-School Program Weekly News & Notes from 4/10-4/14

Student of the Week

• The After-School Program Student of the week: Richard Seveney
• Richard was nominated for his positive attitude, technological contributions, and his perfect attendance in the Capital One Coders club.
• Great Job Richard!

After-School Action

• Many goals were scored during Soccer League this week.

Saturday Soccer Competition!

After School Schedule 4/17-4/21

Students Leaving After-School before 4:45

• • Any student staying after school must be signed out of the main office by a parent or guardian if leaving prior to 4:45.
  • Walkers may sign themselves out any time after 3:30 when first block ends.

Questions/Concerns

Contact the After-School Specialist, Matt Kruk, @email

Holmes MS PTA

We invite EVERY family at Holmes to participate in the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) because we can do more together! Advocate for your child, and for all the children at Holmes.  Connect with other parents, so that we can build a stronger community for ourselves and our children. This year, the Holmes PTA is planning on holding in-person meetings again, so you can meet face-to-face with other parents and with Ms. Barnes.  We're also planning restaurant nights, Bingo Nights, a Fun Run, Teacher Appreciation Week, and so much more!

• Are you able to volunteer?  Submit this Google form
• Want to order Spiritwear

 

Match Day - 5/13, 7:30 pm

From Ms. Oncho, Our Family Liaison

Upcoming Family Coffee Events:

Family Coffee Events at Holmes occur monthly. The topics coming up over the next few months can be found below. You can attend in person or over Zoom. You will receive Zoom links via News You Choose and e-Notify. Click here to register for an upcoming Family Coffee. All presentation recordings and resources are saved to Holmes Families on Schoology.

April Parent Coffee

Please use the following zoom link to join: 

https://myfcpsk12.zoom.us/j/99931570547

.

SOL Testing Window

Important Upcoming Dates

• Tuesday, 4/18, 9-10 am - Parent Coffee
• Friday, 4/21- NO SCHOOL / Eid al Fitr
• Wednesday, 4/26, 6:30 pm - PTA Meeting
• Wednesday, 4/26 & Thursday, 4/27 - 6th Grade Field Trip to DC
• Saturday, 4/29, 9 am - Soccer tournament at Glasgow MS
• Friday, 5/12, 4-6 pm - Holmes PTA Fun Run
• Monday, 5/29 - NO SCHOOL / Memorial Day
• Friday, 6/16 - 2-Hour Early Release / Last Day of School

How to Stay Connected to Holmes MS

Please stay in touch with us throughout the year by:

• keeping your contact information up-to-date throughout the year
• visiting the Holmes MS website
• signing up for News You Choose
• following us on Twitter  
• monitoring your student's progress with SIS Parent Account
• join the Holmes MS PTA and attend meetings
  • PTA Facebook
  • Online PTA Membership Form
  • MemberHub

FCPS & Community Updates

April Observances

April is the Month of the Military Child! Every year we take the opportunity to recognize military-connected youth for their service and contribution to our community. Fairfax County Public Schools is proud to have over 14,000 military-connected youth as a part of our student body. We appreciate the varied life experiences they bring to our school community, and recognize their strength and resilience. Learn more about Month of the Military Child and FCPS’ resources for military families.

FCPS is proud to celebrate National Arab American Heritage Month in April. This special month provides an opportunity to recognize the remarkable 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. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.

In FCPS libraries, students develop knowledge and skills, experience a sense of belonging, find inspiration and support, and have the ability to freely pursue their personal interests and academic growth. Watch this video to learn how FCPS librarians make a difference.

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

Public School Volunteer Week, 4/16 - 4/22

Background: Public School Volunteer Week provides a yearly opportunity for schools and families to honor and highlight the powerful contributions parents and caregivers provide at school and home to support student success. Schools are encouraged to host a new event on or move an existing event to Public School Volunteer Week, to honor volunteers.

Purple Up! Day, 4/19

To show our support for all our military-connected families, we are inviting all Fairfax County students, families, school employees, and community members to “Purple Up!” on April 19 for military children. Why purple? Purple symbolizes all branches of the military as a combination of Army green, Marine Corps red, and Coast Guard, Navy, Air Force and Space Force blue. 

Earth Day, 4/22

Learn more about the history of Earth Day in National Geographic Kids. 

National Library Week, 4/23 - 4/29

April is School Library Month and it's a great time to celebrate the essential role that school librarians play in the lives of students. School librarians ensure students have access to a wide variety of high-quality books and resources that connect them to the world and build a culture of literacy. Librarians develop lessons that are meaningful to students and help them develop critical thinking, inquiry, and information literacy skills. They support learning across all subject areas by teaching students the skills to be independent problem-solvers and creative thinkers. By creating a safe environment for all students to be engaged and curious learners, FCPS libraries are places where everyone belongs.

National Library Week is April 23-29. Take a moment to learn more about FCPS Library Programs and share your appreciation of your school librarian!

Parent Information Line Available in Eight Languages

Parents who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese can call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS and to receive support if they are having difficulty communicating with their children's schools due to a language barrier.

Community Meeting on the Dangers of Fentanyl

Opioid overdoses are on the rise across the country, including in Fairfax County. Most fatal overdoses in Fairfax County in recent years involved fentanyl.

Last month, FCPS hosted a conversation on the dangers of fentanyl. During this impactful event, audience members heard testimonials from individuals affected by the opioid epidemic and learned facts from medical experts and law enforcement representatives. 

The conversation will continue on Monday, April 24, 6:30 to 8 p.m., at Woodson High School. FCPS principals and staff will share what is happening in our schools and update the work to prevent substance misuse and educate our students.  

Transportation will be available from select schools throughout the county. Transportation information can be found once you begin the registration process. 

Visit our Opioid Awareness webpage for more information. Visit the Fairfax County Government webpage on opioids for information on how you can take action and get help for yourself or loved ones.

Medicaid Enrollment Underway

If you have Medicaid/FAMIS/CHIP health insurance, the Medicaid Enrollment Processes began in March. The Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) (Virginia Medicaid) has started to review Medicaid members’ health coverage to determine whether members are eligible for coverage. DMAS will not cancel or reduce coverage for members without asking for updated information, but they need your help to make this a smooth process.Make sure your current mailing address, email, and phone numbers are up-to-date so that important information about your coverage gets to you. Update your contact information today online at commonhelp.virginia.gov, or by calling Cover Virginia at 1-855-242-8282 or your local Department of Social Services.If you need any assistance or have any questions, contact Cover Virginia at 1-855-242-8282 or your local Department of Social Services.

No-Cost Mental Health Teletherapy for Students

FCPS has partnered with Hazel Health to begin offering virtual mental health services to high school students via live video sessions. Starting Monday, April 10, parents/caregivers who have been struggling to find a therapist for their child or who notice changes in their child’s behavior will be able to connect them virtually with a licensed therapist. 

Proposed Updates to the Student Rights and Responsibilities  Document

FCPS is in the process of updating the Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R) document for the 2023-24 School Year. The SR&R provides clear expectations for student behavior, responses to that behavior, and support that may be needed. Parents/caregivers, please check your email for a link from FCPS regarding a brief survey on proposed changes to the SR&R. The survey will close at 8 p.m., on Friday, April 21. 

View Updated Draft Goals for FCPS’ New Strategic Plan

We are excited to show you the most recent version of proposed goals for the new Strategic Plan. Join us for a virtual community forum and see how your survey feedback has helped inform the latest draft of the plan. Community forums are open to parents/caregivers, staff, students, and community members. Please register by clicking on:

• Monday, April 17, from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

We appreciate your continued involvement throughout every step of this important process. Together, we will help ensure a thriving future for each and every FCPS student. Visit our Strategic Planning webpage.

Taste of Annandale community festival - 4/29

The community is invited to the Taste of Annandale, a free family-friendly festival April 29, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., along Tom Davis Drive.

The Taste of Annandale features live performances, food trucks and restaurants, children’s programming and activities, a 5K race, a best-dressed pet contest, vendors, a chili cookoff, beer garden, and the police helicopter.

The Taste of Annandale is organized by the Annandale-Mason Roundtable, a nonprofit formed by volunteers. The festival was developed with two major goals in mind: to bring the community together to celebrate Annandale and to shine a spotlight on local businesses and organizations.

Since the first Taste of Annandale in 2015, it has grown every year to become the biggest street festival in the area. The festival’s partners include the Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services, Mason Police District, Celebrate Fairfax, and the ACCA Child Development Center.

If you would like to volunteer, please contact Hadyn Kihm, 703-324-5713, mailto:@email.

Sponsorships are available, as well as space for vendors and restaurants. The deadline has been extended to April 20. Learn more and download an application on the Taste of Annandale website, https://tasteofannandale.com/.

Upcoming Webinars and Events for Caregivers

FCPS’ Parent Resource Center (PRC) is dedicated to helping adults support the success of all students. Upcoming PRC webinars include:

• SIBSHOPS: An Exciting, In-Person Workshop for Brothers and Sisters of Children with Special Needs, Friday, April 14, at 9 a.m. 

Presented by School Social Work Services, students in grades 2-6 will be able to share sibling experiences, receive peer support, play games, and more. This event takes place at Providence Community Center.

• Flash Forward: Postsecondary Education and Employment Options, Wednesday, April 26, at 6:30 p.m. 

Presented by Career and Transition Services, students with disabilities seeking a standard or advanced diploma and their families are invited to this event that provides an introduction to options available after high school. This event takes place at Woodson High School.

• Neurodiversity at High School, Friday, April 28, at 10 a.m.Kristen Haynor, a neurodiversity specialist, will share strategies on setting your child up for success (no matter how their brain functions), advocating for your child, and collaborating with your child’s school. This event is virtual.

Click on the titles above to register.

Summer Camps & Learning Opportunities

Summer VIP Program

Annandale Summer Sports Camps

Annandale Community:

Looking for fun activities for your child this summer? Annandale High School is offering a variety of summer camps this year for current elementary and middle school students led by our own Annandale coaches. Help spread the word to friends, family and neighbors!

Registration for all camps can be found HERE. See descriptions of the various camps below. More information can be found at AnnandaleAtoms.net. 

Campers can bring their lunch or purchase lunch at camp, and they should bring a snack and a water bottle each day. Cash or checks are accepted. Checks should be made out to “Annandale Athletic Boosters”. Payment is due on the first day of camp. 

If you have any questions, please email Brandon Sutphin, Director of Student Activities, at @email.

Camp Information Multi-Sport Camp - Rising 2nd-9th Graders - June 20-23 ($120): Campers will have fun playing a variety of sports including basketball, kickball, volleyball, soccer, and touch football. They will participate in fun contests and win prizes! Campers can bring their lunch or purchase lunch at camp. Hours are 8:30am-3:00pm. Register Here. Olympics Camp - Rising 2nd-9th Graders - June 26-29 ($120): This exciting camp features team activities including soccer, volleyball, basketball, touch football, and relay races. Campers will also get a chance to compete and earn medals! Campers can bring their lunch or purchase lunch at camp. Hours are 8:30am-3:00pm. Register Here. For questions about Multi-Sport or Olympics Camps, please reach out to Christopher Bagot, Camp Director and Varsity Coach, at @email. Basketball - Rising 4th-9th Graders - July 10-14 ($250): Campers will spend each day focused on developing their basketball skills. They will also receive a report card on their basketball abilities, a t-shirt, and a chance to win trophies. Campers can bring their lunch or purchase lunch at camp. Hours are 9:00am to 3:00pm. Register Here. For questions about Basketball Camp please reach out to Jerome McAvoy, Camp Director and Varsity Coach, at @email.  Girls Field Hockey/Lacrosse - Rising K-9th Grade - July 10-14, July 17-21, & July 24-28 ($120/week): For new athletes and those who have been playing for years, camp will be a fun-filled day of training, group competition, and surprise activities. Campers should bring their lunch each day except Friday when lunch will be provided. Hours are 8:00am-3:00pm. Register Here. For questions about Girls Field Hockey/Lacrosse Camp please reach out to Janan Gokturk, Camp Director and Assistant Varsity Coach, at @email.

Tech Adventure Camp and CTE Summer Academy

We are excited to provide the following information about our 2023 CTE summer enrichment camps! The FCPS Career and Technical Education (CTE) office is once again offering two enrichment programs this year - Tech Adventure Camp and CTE Summer Academy.

What is CTE Summer Enrichment

• Hands-on, exploratory enrichment programs
• Teaches students engaging and exciting content in Career and Technical Education (CTE)
• Helps students make connections to careers and develop new skills

2023 Programs

• Tech Adventure Camp: Students in Kindergarten - grade 6 explore STEAM, culinary, health, trades, and computer science by rotating through daily classes
• NEW TO 2023: Tech Adventure Camp is now open to current kindergarten and 1st grade students!!
• CTE Summer Academy: Students in grades 7 - 11 choose their classes and dive deeper into CTE program areas, skills, and career exploration

Details

• Cost - $275 per week
• *Fee waived for a select number of Free and Reduced Meal students
• Dates - July 10 - 14; July 17 - 21; and July 24 - 28
• Time - 8:30 am to 2:00 pm
• *Early drop off begins at 7:30 am
• Different weekly offerings
• Transportation from select FPCS schools is provided!

Additional Information can be found on our websites!

• Tech Adventure Camp -ly/FCPS_TAC
• CTE Summer Academy -ly/FCPS_CSA

Registration for both camps will begin February 1st. Our websites are updated regularly with more information. Feel free to contact Beth Mehr, CTE Summer Programs Educational Specialists, for more information. We look forward to creating, exploring, and learning with your students this summer!

Institute for the Arts Camps (IFTA)

IFTA is a two- or four-week summer enrichment program for students currently in grades 6-11. Students select from nearly 90 classes in art, dance, health and physical education 9, music, self-directed economics and personal finance, and theater. Visit the IFTA website for more information and registration. 

E-IFTA is a weekly arts camp for students in grades 2-5 who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Students take part in four classes every day related to dance, music, theater, and visual art. They work with FCPS fine arts teachers who create classes that are fun and engaging. Visit the E-IFTA website for more information and registration. 

Stay Connected with FCPS

Being connected to your school and division is important every year, and even more so now as we navigate our return to school. The best way to stay informed is to sign up for newsletters through News You Chose. 

Your school and FCPS have a variety of topics you can choose from, including:

• School Newsletters- featuring everything you need to know about your child’s school
• FCPS This Week- a weekly newsletter featuring news and happenings from across the division, published Wednesday mornings
• School Board Meeting Update- a recap of important news coming out of school board meetings, published the Friday morning after the meeting
• FCPS Employee News- weekly updates just for staff, published Tuesday mornings