Weekly Newsletter 12/6/2023

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Key Center Winter Spirit Week- December 11th to 15th


Get into the holiday spirit by participating in our fun-filled spirit week activities.

Monday, December 11th- Wear Holiday Headgear

Tuesday, December 12th- White Out Attire

Wednesday, December 13th- Holiday Color Wars

  • A Hall- Wear Red
  • B Hall- Wear Yellow
  • C Hall- Wear Blue
  • D Hall- Wear Green

Thursday, December 14th-  Comfy Cozy Day

Friday, December 15th- Ugly Sweater Day

Inclusive Schools Week


Since its inception in 2001, Inclusive Schools Week has celebrated the progress that schools have made in providing a supportive and quality education to an increasingly diverse student population, including students who are marginalized due to disability, gender, socio-economic status, cultural heritage, language preference, and other factors.  

Inclusive Schools Week allows us all to take a moment to applaud the progress we’ve made toward building more inclusive school communities while pledging to continue our work toward becoming a more inclusive society.  The theme for this year’s Inclusive Schools Week is ‘Draw Me In’.  Key Center students are observing the week by creating a Key Center School Art Quilt.  Each student is creating their unique artwork on a canvas panel.  When the panels are placed together like a patchwork quilt, it will demonstrate how special our school environment is when all of the unique and special individuals come together to learn and grow.

Food Drive- An Opportunity to Help Our Community


Key Center is participating in a Food Drive to collect non-perishable goods for the West Springfield High School Food Pantry.

Requested items include:

Deodorant
Pasta Sauce
Cereal
Shampoo
Peanut Butter
Conditioner
Jelly
Boxed, Non-Refrigerated Milk
Rice
Pasta

Please send donated items to Key Center by December 12th. Thank you for your support!

Staff Snack Bar- December 13th-- We need your help!!!


We will be setting up a treats/snack bar for our staff to celebrate all of their hard work.  Please send in some sweet or savory items for our staff! 

Items can be sent in with students or dropped off at the front office during school hours on 12/11 and 12/12 and no later than 10am on 12/13.

Key Center Substitutes Needed


We are always looking for kind and caring substitutes. Substitute teaching is a great opportunity for future teachers, stay-at-home parents, college students, part-time employees, and anyone who wants to make a difference! If you or someone you know is interested in this opportunity, please email Patti Alexander, Administrative Assistant, at  [email protected] and apply online.

Substitutes will receive their hourly pay plus an additional $80 for each of the 18 designated high-volume day they work. All substitute instructional assistants will receive their hourly pay plus an additional $55 for each high-volume day they work. See the list of high-volume days.

A bonus program for substitutes:

  • Substitutes working 50 days within a school year will earn a $200 bonus.
  • Substitutes working 100 days within a school year will earn a $300 bonus.
  • Substitutes working 150 days within a school year will earn a $400 bonus.

Bonuses will be paid quarterly in December, March, June, and July. Get more information about the pay schedule

ABA Family Training for December 2023


This workshop is intended for parents of students with the low incidence disabilities of

Autism and Intellectual Disabilities.

Topics covered will include:

  • Toilet training readiness and prerequisite skills
  • Methods of toilet training
  • Troubleshooting night-time and diaper dependence issues

December 13, 2023

Choose one virtual session:

10:00am - 11:30am or  7:00pm - 8:30pm

Join using this meeting link

Preparing for Winter Weather


Winter weather will be here before you know it! 

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

Be sure to plan for the winter season. Make sure your contact information is up-to-date in SIS ParentVUE, bookmark the FCPS website, and plan for childcare if appropriate.

Key Center PTA


Not yet a member of our PTA?  We would love to have you join!  

Key Center PTA Membership
Key Center PTA Donations
Key Center PTA Volunteer Opportunities

Any questions regarding involvement, please contact PTA President, Cecilia Allen, at [email protected] or (301) 646-7447.

Upcoming Dates


December 18-29       Winter Break

January 1                  New Year’s Day - Student/Staff Holiday

January 15                Martin Luther King Jr.’s Birthday - Student/Staff Holiday

January 25                End of 2nd Quarter - 2 hour Early Release - 11:50am

January 26               Teacher Workday - Student Holiday

2023-24 FCPS School Calendar

6404 Franconia Road Springfield, VA 22150  | Main Office: 703-313-4000
Attendance: 703-313-4000 | Web | Facebook

Weekly Newsletter 11/29/2023

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Outstanding Employee Winners


Key Center is pleased to announce the following winners:

Lauren Swale - Outstanding Teacher 

Mallory Strawther- Outstanding New Teacher

Beth Curtis- Outstanding Professional Employee

Anastasia Kosmakos - Outstanding Operational Employee

Food Drive- An Opportunity to Help Our Community


Key Center is participating in a Food Drive to collect non-perishable goods for the West Springfield High School Food Pantry. 

Requested items include:

  • Deodorant
  • Pasta Sauce
  • Cereal
  • Shampoo
  • Peanut Butter
  • Conditioner
  • Jelly
  • Boxed, Non-Refrigerated Milk
  • Rice
  • Pasta

Please send donated items to Key Center by December 12th.  Thank you for your support!

Staff Snack Bar- December 13th-- We need your help!!!


We will be setting up a treats/snack bar for our staff to celebrate all of their hard work.  Please send in some sweet or savory items for our staff! 

Items can be sent in with students or dropped off at the front office during school hours on 12/11 and 12/12 and no later than 10am on 12/13.

National Special Education Day


National Special Education Day is recognized each year on December 2nd.  This is a  commemoration of President Gerald Ford’s signing of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) in 1975. We celebrate our teachers and staff who serve and support our students with special needs, as well as our families who are partners in the education and support of those students! 

Learn more about the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act

Fairfax County Public Schools has the following resources available to assist families of students with special needs. 

  • The Office of Special Education Procedural Support helps staff, families, and students with the implementation of and compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, as amended. 
  • Kathy Murphy, the assistant ombuds for special education, provides information and support to caregivers and students regarding special education and Section 504 services. Contact the Ombuds Office by submitting a question, calling 571-423-4014, or emailing [email protected]
Social Security Benefits for People With Disabilities – Everything You Wanted To Know


Friday, December 1, 2023 from 10:00 am - 11:30 am via Zoom

A FREE Workshop from Social Security

Information about Disability Benefits and the application process

What are Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits and how do you qualify?

What other Social Security programs are available and who qualifies?

Families with individuals with disabilities often depend on supplemental resources in order to survive and receive the support they need. Government programs are an important part of planning for the financial security and success of adults with disabilities. The challenge comes in knowing which benefits to apply for, when to apply and how to apply.  Join our online event to get information for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance, Retirement, Survivorship and Disabled Adult Child (SSDI).

Register for the Webinar

ABLE Accounts and the ABLEnow Program


Tuesday, December 5, 2023

More independence, greater financial security and a better quality of life – that’s the future ABLEnow is building. Join this information session to discover the advantages of ABLE accounts and the national ABLEnow program. In just one hour, we’ll cover the answers to these questions, and more:

• What are ABLE accounts?
• Who is eligible?
• How can I use the money in an ABLE account?
• What are the features and benefits of ABLEnow?
• How can I learn more and open an account?

For more information on ABLEnow, please visit ablenow.com.

Register for the Webinar

ABA Family Training for December 2023


This workshop is intended for parents of students with the low incidence disabilities of Autism and Intellectual Disabilities.

Topics covered will include:

● Toilet tr aining readiness and prerequisite skills
● Methods of toilet training
● Troubleshooting night-time and diaper dependence issues

December 13, 2023

Choose one virtual session:
10:00am - 11:30am or 7:00pm - 8:30pm

Join using this meeting link.

Key Center PTA

Not yet a member of our PTA?  We would love to have you join!  

Key Center PTA Membership
Key Center PTA Donations
Key Center PTA Volunteer Opportunities

Any questions regarding involvement, please contact PTA President, Cecilia Allen, at [email protected] or (301) 646-7447.

Upcoming Dates


December 18-29       Winter Break

January 1                  New Year’s Day - Student/Staff Holiday

January 15                Martin Luther King Jr.’s Birthday - Student/Staff Holiday

January 25                End of 2nd Quarter - 2 hour Early Release - 11:50am

January 26                Teacher Workday - Student Holiday


2023-24 FCPS School Calendar

6404 Franconia Road Springfield, VA 22150  | Main Office: 703-313-4000
Attendance: 703-313-4000 | Web | Facebook

Happy Thanksgiving!

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Dear Key Center Families,

As we approach the season of gratitude, I want to take a moment to express heartfelt thanks to each and every one of our Key Center families. Your support and involvement in our school community make a significant difference, and I am truly grateful for the partnership we share.

This Thanksgiving, may your homes be filled with warmth, laughter, and the comforting aroma of delicious feasts. As we gather with loved ones to count our blessings, let's also take a moment to reflect on the importance of community and the joy that comes from working together toward a common goal—providing the best possible education for our students.

On behalf of the entire Key Center team, I wish you a Thanksgiving overflowing with love, joy, and moments to cherish. May this holiday season be a reminder of the wonderful connections that make our Key Center family so special.

Warmest wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving!

Ann Smith
Principal
Key Center School 

6404 Franconia Road Springfield, VA 22150  | Main Office: 703-313-4000
Attendance: 703-313-4000 | Web | Facebook

Weekly Newsletter 11/15/2023

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Thanksgiving Break


As a reminder, schools and offices will be closed Wednesday, November 22 through Friday, November 24 .  Classes will resume on Monday, November 27.   Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving!
Learn more about the first Thanksgiving.

Thank you to everyone who submitted their Federal Impact Aid Survey! Veterans Day Observance at Key Center


On Friday, November 10th, Key Center School observed Veterans Day.  We displayed a wreath display and staff members added the names of veterans in our lives.  We also created an America’s White Table display honoring veterans.  The students participated in lessons and activities to learn about veterans and how they help and protect our country.  Thanks veterans- we appreciate you! #FCPSHonorsVeterans

Get Support Accessing Metro Services- Metro Comes to The Arc

Tuesday, November 28, 2023
10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
The Arc of Northern Virginia
3060 Williams Drive
Fairfax, VA 22031

Register on the Arc of Northern Virginia’s website.

At this event, representatives from the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) will be on site to assist with:
● Taking photos and processing applications for the Reduced Fare Program.
● Taking photos and accepting applications for the MetroAccess Door to Door Paratransit program.
● Renewing expired Reduced Fare Cards or MetroAccess Services.

These are two separate programs, with separate application forms. Please take the time to understand which program you want to access, and understand the application process. THIS CAN BE COMPLICATED if you do not take the time to read and understand. We want to make this as easy for you as possible on the date of the event. But that can only happen if you come properly prepared.

IMPORTANT: Application forms MUST be signed by a healthcare professional AND MUST be completed and emailed to Ashley Africa by November 21, 2023. You must bring the original with you on the day of the event November 28th.

To SUBMIT COMPLETED APPLICATIONS, or if you have questions, email Ashley Africa at [email protected] or phone 703-208-1119 x140.

American Education Week


American Education Week is celebrated November 13-17.  We celebrate ALL who work in our Key Center School community: our bus drivers, cafeteria workers, counselors, support staff, teachers, leadership and more! Learn more from the National Education Association.

Do you want to recognize someone from our school who goes above and beyond? Submit a nomination to FCPS Cares.

The National Museum of the US Army - At Ease - Low Sensory at the Museum


November 18th (4 p.m. to 6 p.m.) At Ease- “Low Sensory Day at the Museum". This free public program is for visitors to enjoy late afternoon access to the Museum with additional modifications to provide a more sensory-friendly environment. Anxiety coping devices will be available at the Welcome Desk. Service dogs and miniature ponies are allowed during this program as well as during normal operating hours. A hands-on special educational program and docent led tours will be available.

To Reserve your free tickets, please click the National Museum At EASE link.

Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABS) Family Training Opportunity


The focus for the November family training is- Steps for Systematically Teaching New Behaviors

This workshop is intended for parents of students with Autism served in preschool autism classrooms (PAC),EnhancedAutismClassrooms(EAC) and CAT secondary classrooms. Topics covered will Include:

▪ How are behaviors taught?
▪What are the “learning to learn”behaviors?
▪ How do I select a behavior teacher?

Date of Session- November 15, 2023
Choose one virtual session:

7:00pm - 8:30pm

Join using this meeting link: https://meet.google.com/cgn-udci-kbh

Key Center PTA


Not yet a member of our PTA?  We would love to have you join!  

Key Center PTA Membership
Key Center PTA Donations
Key Center PTA Volunteer Opportunities

Any questions regarding involvement, please contact PTA President, Cecilia Allen, at [email protected] or (301) 646-7447.

Upcoming Dates


November 22-24       Thanksgiving Break - Holiday   
December 18-29       Winter Break
January 1                  New Year’s Day - Student/Staff Holiday
January 15                Martin Luther King Jr.’s Birthday - Student/Staff Holiday
January 25                End of 2nd Quarter - 2 hour Early Release - 11:50am
January 26               Teacher Workday - Student Holiday

2023-24 FCPS School Calendar

6404 Franconia Road Springfield, VA 22150  | Main Office: 703-313-4000
Attendance: 703-313-4000 | Web | Facebook

Weekly Newsletter 11/8/2023

GovDelivery4 weeks 1 day ago

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

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

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IMPORTANT -  Federal Impact Aid Survey - check your student’s backpack


Your student received the Federal Impact Aid Survey from school in their backpacks on November 1st.
 

This is a mandatory survey that gets filled each year to help the county collect additional tax monies due to military presence in our area.   For each school-aged child in your household, please complete, sign, date, and return the survey to your child's school by November 14th.

If sections 1 and 2 of the survey do not apply to you, just check the box in Section 3 and sign/date at the bottom of the form.  Please return the form in your child’s backpack. All results are confidential.

Returning this survey is important because information from this survey results in an additional $3 million in grants each year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

Remember that families can complete the Impact Aid Survey online using their ParentVue accounts.  Learn more about creating a ParentVue account.

Come and enjoy Thanksgiving lunch with your child on November 16th!


Key Center invites you to come to school to enjoy the FCPS Thanksgiving school lunch on November 16th, 2023.  If you would like to purchase a Thanksgiving meal from the cafeteria you must pre-order by November 10th. Please see the flier in your student’s backpack today.  

The cost of a meal is $4.75.  Payment with cash is required and change may be limited so exact change is preferred.  Classroom mealtimes may be slightly adjusted on the 16th, to accommodate this special lunch event.  Your student’s actual mealtime will be shared by your classroom teacher once the schedule is finalized.

Trash or Treasure- Save Those Candy Wrappers!


You don’t have to trash those candy wrappers and doom them for an eternity in a landfill- or, even worse, our oceans.  By putting your wrappers in a custom candy wrapper recycling box, you can keep our planet clean and contribute to the circular economy. 

Key Center is participating in the Trash or Treasure recycling program. Staff and families are invited to send in candy wrappers to school.  Students from our vocational program will collect the wrappers from classrooms and add them to the collection box for recycling.  Please check your student’s backpack for a collection bag.  Simply add candy wrappers over the next couple of weeks and return the bag to school. Wrappers returned to Key Center by November 10, 2023 will be sent to Trash or Treasure for recycling.  Thank you for helping to make Halloween sweet and sustainable! 

Learn more about this program on the Trash or Treasure website.

Virginia DMV comes to the ARC


Tuesday, November 14,2023
9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
The Arc of Northern Virginia
3060 Williams Drive, Suite 300
Fairfax, VA 22031
**DMV Connect will take place in First Floor conference room**

Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) personnel will be at The Arc of Northern Virginia on Tuesday, November 14th from 9:30-3:30. Appointments are encouraged and are offered every 15 minutes. DMV Connect teams are equipped to conduct all DMV transactions except vital records and testing. This includes obtaining your REAL ID driver’s license. Other DMV services available include regular drivers licenses, identification cards and vehicle titles & registrations, parking placards, and more.

To schedule your appointment, email [email protected].

Click this link for more information on DMV Connect, or contact Allie Shelby at 703-208-1119.

DMV employees securely process real-time transactions. The new ID card is mailed from a secure central location to the customer’s address

The National Museum of the US Army - At Ease - Low Sensory at the Museum


November 18th (4 p.m. to 6 p.m.) At Ease- “Low Sensory Day at the Museum.” This free public program is for visitors to enjoy late afternoon access to the Museum with additional modifications to provide a more sensory-friendly environment. Anxiety coping devices will be available at the Welcome Desk. Service dogs and miniature ponies are allowed during this program as well as during normal operating hours. A hands-on special educational program and docent led tours will be available.

To Reserve your free tickets, please click the National Museum At EASE link.

Diwali- November 12th


Happy Diwali to all those who celebrate this day and the victory of light over darkness. This year's Diwali artwork was created by Chantilly High School student Rijuta D. as part of the FCPS Observance Design Challenge for Students.

National School Psychology Week- Let’s Grow Together


This week we are observing National School Psychology Week.  This is a time to celebrate the important work school psychologists do to help all students thrive. Key Center is grateful for our school psychologist, Ted Tynan, and all that he does to support our students and programming! This year's theme is "Let's Grow Together," inspired by the importance of both personal and shared strengths in our growth as individuals and school communities in every season of life. The theme recognizes every aspect of growth, as fundamental to effective learning environments and to school psychologists' role in supporting student well-being and learning.

To learn more about school psychology, visit the National Association of School Psychologists.

Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABS) Family Training Opportunity


The focus for the November family training is- Steps for Systematically Teaching New Behaviors 

This workshop is intended for parents of students with Autism served in preschool autism classrooms (PAC),EnhancedAutismClassrooms(EAC) and CAT secondary classrooms. Topics covered will Include: 

▪ How are behaviors taught? 
▪What are the “learning to learn”behaviors? 
▪ How do I select a behavior teacher?

Date of Session- November 15, 2023
Choose one virtual session:

10:00am - 11:30am or 7:00pm - 8:30pm

Join using this meeting link: https://meet.google.com/cgn-udci-kbh

Moving on to Life in the Community Resource Fair Thursday, November 9, 2023, Annandale High School -- 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.


This event is designed for students with more significant disabilities and their families to meet with adult agency and vendor representatives to gather information about available services for adults in need of ongoing support once they transition from FCPS. Agency and vendor representatives will be available to share information on adult service providers, employment and training programs, residential options, leisure activities, and self-advocacy during this exhibitor fair.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfsGrotohv8ULiD_XV2g3DMD8CbBNuuQDE5Y7-PgoG5mykvbA/viewform

Veterans Day


Veterans Day provides a great reason to pause, reflect, and recognize the extraordinary sacrifices our Veterans and their families have made on our behalf, and we thank them for their service. Learn more about the history of Veterans Day at va.gov.

Key Center PTA

Not yet a member of our PTA?  We would love to have you join!  

Key Center PTA Membership
Key Center PTA Donations
Key Center PTA Volunteer Opportunities

Any questions regarding involvement, please contact PTA President, Cecilia Allen, at [email protected] or (301) 646-7447.

Upcoming Dates


November 22-24       Thanksgiving Break - Holiday   
December 18-29       Winter Break
January 1                  New Year’s Day - Student/Staff Holiday
January 15                Martin Luther King Jr.’s Birthday - Student/Staff Holiday
January 25                End of 2nd Quarter - 2 hour Early Release - 11:50am
January 26                Teacher Workday - Student Holiday   

2023-24 FCPS School Calendar

6404 Franconia Road Springfield, VA 22150  | Main Office: 703-313-4000
Attendance: 703-313-4000 | Web | Facebook

Weekly Newsletter 11/1/2023

GovDelivery1 month ago

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

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

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Calendar Reminder, Nov 3, 6, 7 and Update for March 5, 2024


All FCPS schools have a 2 Hour Early Release Day Friday, November 3rd for the End of 1st Quarter progress report work.  Dismissal is at 11:50am for students. On Monday, November 6, schools are closed for students as staff engage in a school planning day and Tuesday, November 7, schools are closed for students due to the teacher workday. 

Calendar Update for March 5 Presidential PrimaryThe Fairfax Board of Elections has requested that schools be closed on Tuesday, March 5, to accommodate the administration of the 2024 presidential primary election.

IMPORTANT -  Federal Impact Aid Survey - check your student’s backpack


Your student will receive the Federal Impact Aid Survey from school in their backpacks on November 1st.
 

This is a mandatory survey that gets filled each year to help the county collect additional tax monies due to military presence in our area.   For each school-aged child in your household, please complete, sign, date, and return the survey to your child's school by November 14th.

If sections 1 and 2 of the survey do not apply to you, just check the box in Section 3 and sign/date at the bottom of the form.  Please return the form in your child’s backpack. All results are confidential.

Returning this survey is important because information from this survey results in an additional $3 million in grants each year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

Remember that families can complete the Impact Aid Survey online using their ParentVue accounts.  Learn more about creating a ParentVue account.

National Family Engagement Month


November is National Family Engagement Month! This month reminds us that families are children's first and most important teachers, advocates, and nurturers.  Over 35 years of research shows that the most effective way to increase student achievement is for families to be actively involved in their children's education. Family engagement is a shared responsibility between home, school, and the community. The importance of family engagement will be highlighted during the month of November as we celebrate and strengthen family-school partnerships together.

If you would like to come in and participate in a classroom activity, please let your child’s teacher know.

Come and enjoy Thanksgiving lunch with your child on November 16th!


Key Center invites you to come to school to enjoy the FCPS Thanksgiving school lunch on November 16th, 2023.  If you would like to purchase a Thanksgiving meal from the cafeteria you must pre-order by November 10th. Please see the flier in your student’s backpack today.  

The cost of a meal is $4.75.  Payment with cash is required and change may be limited so exact change is preferred.  Classroom mealtimes may be slightly adjusted on the 16th, to accommodate this special lunch event.  Your student’s actual mealtime will be shared by your classroom teacher once the schedule is finalized.

Native American Heritage Month


Native American Heritage Month is a time to celebrate rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories and to acknowledge the important contributions of Native Americans. It is also a time to raise a general awareness about the unique challenges they have faced both historically and in the present, and the ways in which tribal citizens have worked to conquer these challenges.Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.

Nominate an Outstanding Key Center Employee


Nominations are now open for the Outstanding Employee Awards! To submit a nomination for a  Key Center School Outstanding Employee in one of the categories, please complete the nomination through Google link for each category found below. You may nominate one or more employees at Key Center (one individual may only nominate one employee per category.)

All that is required for a preliminary nomination is a paragraph or two about how this employee demonstrates exceptional work in the criteria for that category. The google form link has more information regarding the criteria for each of these awards and the eligibility requirements are below.

Outstanding Teacher 

Eligibility: Has at least three years of experience as a teacher (in any school/school district); librarians are included in this category. Outstanding Teacher nomination form.

Outstanding New Teacher

Eligibility: Has up to three years of experience as a teacher (in any school/school district); librarians are included in this category.  Outstanding New Teacher nomination form

Outstanding Principal

Eligibility: Has at least three years of experience as a building principal (in any school/school district).  Outstanding Principal nomination form

Outstanding Leader 

Eligibility: At least one year of experience in their current position as a Schedule-C or School-Based Administrator scale employee (that is not the building principal):

Common positions in this category: Assistant and Associate Principals, Director of Student Activities, Director of Student Services. Outstanding Leader nomination form

Outstanding Professional Employee 

Eligibility: At least one year experience in current position as a Schedule-B employee or other non-instructional employee in a school that supports school leadership

Common positions in this category: School-Based Technology Specialist, Technology Support Specialist, Assessment Coach, Career Center Specialist, Instructional Coach, Psychologist, Social Worker, School Counselor, Safety and Security Specialist, Resource Teachers that serve in an administrative role in a school.  Outstanding Professional Employee nomination form

Outstanding Operational Employee

Eligibility: At least one year of experience in current position as Schedule-A or Classroom Instructional Support Scale employee

Common positions in this category: Administrative and Office Staff, Safety and Security Assistant, Custodial Staff, Food Service Staff, IA, PHA, PHTA, All Parent Liaisons.  Outstanding Operational Employee nomination form 

**The deadline to submit a nomination is November 6, 2023**

If you have any questions about the process or what category your exceptional employee is in, please contact Ann, Emily or Helly Ahmadyar at [email protected]

Daylight Saving Time Ends (Fall Back)


This Sunday, November 5, at 2 a.m., daylight saving time ends. Don’t forget to move your clocks back one hour!

First Responder Practice Emergency Interactions


When: S
aturday, November 4, 2023, 11:00 a.m.  to  2:00 p.m.

Where:  Kenmore Middle School, 200 S Carlin Springs Road, Arlington VA 22204

Years of data tell us that people with disabilities are more likely to encounter law enforcement than typically developing peers, and more likely to struggle to navigate that interaction. The Arc of Northern Virginia is partnering with Arlington County public safety agencies to hold another Emergency Responders Event for people with disabilities to practice interacting with first responders and learn about other available safety resources.

Participants will be able to:
  Practice police encounters
  Practice talking with and using fire, rescue, and EMS services
•  Learn about free, tech-based safety resources available from our Tech for Independent Living program
•  Receive a personalized DD identification card to hand to first responders in the event of an emergency

This event is open to anyone with any disability or general anxiety about police interactions, regardless of where they live. The person with a disability can be the driver (licensed or unlicensed and getting ready to drive), or a passenger or bystander.

This session is free, but pre registration is required.  Please connect to the Arc of Northern Virginia’s website to register.

Trash or Treasure- Save Those Candy Wrappers!


You don’t have to trash those candy wrappers and doom them for an eternity in a landfill- or, even worse, our oceans.  By putting your wrappers in a custom candy wrapper recycling box, you can keep our planet clean and contribute to the circular economy. 

Key Center is participating in the Trash or Treasure recycling program. Staff and families are invited to send in candy wrappers to school.  Students from our vocational program will collect the wrappers from classrooms and add them to the collection box for recycling.  Please check your student’s backpack for a collection bag.  Simply add candy wrappers over the next couple of weeks and return the bag to school. Wrappers returned to Key Center by November 10, 2023 will be sent to Trash or Treasure for recycling.  Thank you for helping to make Halloween sweet and sustainable! 

Learn more about this program on the Trash or Treasure website.

Join Us for the Polar Plunge!


The Key Center community is invited to join our team in GOING FOR THE COLD to benefit Virginia Special Olympics and Key Center School.  Our team will be participating in the Mosaic Polar Plunge on January 20th, 2024.  We are inviting Key Center staff, families, and community partners to join the Key Center Rockets Polar Plunge Team!

Got cold feet?  If you don’t want to join in the fun with our team, please consider sponsoring one of our team members at the team link above- thanks!❄️🧊🚀

Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABS) Family Training Opportunity


The focus for the November family training is- Steps for Systematically Teaching New Behaviors 

This workshop is intended for parents of students with Autism served in preschool autism classrooms (PAC),EnhancedAutismClassrooms(EAC) and CAT secondary classrooms. Topics covered will Include: 

▪ How are behaviors taught? 

▪What are the “learning to learn”behaviors? 

▪ How do I select a behavior teach?

Date of Session- November 15, 2023

Choose one virtual session:

10:00am - 11:30am or 7:00pm - 8:30pm

Join using this meeting link: https://meet.google.com/cgn-udci-kbh

Reminder - Lifetouch Picture Day is on November 8th

Picture Day is on Wednesday November 8th!  

Key Center Celebrates Homecoming


Key Center students and staff celebrated our 2023 Homecoming last week.  We had lots of fun dressing up in special clothing daily, as part of our spirit week.  The week also included our pep rally on Thursday, and our Homecoming Dance on Friday.  So much school spirit-- GO ROCKETS!🚀📣

Moving on to Life in the Community Resource Fair Thursday, November 9, 2023, Annandale High School -- 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.


This event is designed for students with more significant disabilities and their families to meet with adult agency and vendor representatives to gather information about available services for adults in need of ongoing support once they transition from FCPS. Agency and vendor representatives will be available to share information on adult service providers, employment and training programs, residential options, leisure activities, and self-advocacy during this exhibitor fair.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfsGrotohv8ULiD_XV2g3DMD8CbBNuuQDE5Y7-PgoG5mykvbA/viewform

Key Center PTA


Not yet a member of our PTA?  We would love to have you join!  

Key Center PTA Membership
Key Center PTA Donations
Key Center PTA Volunteer Opportunities

Any questions regarding involvement, please contact PTA President, Cecilia Allen, at [email protected] or (301) 646-7447.

Upcoming Dates


November 3              End of 1st Quarter - 2 hour Early Release - 11:50am
November 6              School Planning Day - Student Holiday
November 7              Teacher Work Day - Student Holiday
November 22-24       Thanksgiving Break - Holiday       

2023-24 FCPS School Calendar

6404 Franconia Road Springfield, VA 22150  | Main Office: 703-313-4000
Attendance: 703-313-4000 | Web | Facebook

Weekly Newsletter 10/25/2023

GovDelivery1 month 1 week ago

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 boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

Nominate an Outstanding Key Center Employee


Nominations are now open for the Outstanding Employee Awards! To submit a nomination for a  Key Center School Outstanding Employee in one of the categories, please complete the nomination through Google link for each category found below. You may nominate one or more employees at Key Center (one individual may only nominate one employee per category.)

All that is required for a preliminary nomination is a paragraph or two about how this employee demonstrates exceptional work in the criteria for that category. The google form link has more information regarding the criteria for each of these awards and the eligibility requirements are below.

Outstanding Teacher 

Eligibility: Has at least three years of experience as a teacher (in any school/school district); librarians are included in this category. Outstanding Teacher nomination form.

Outstanding New Teacher

Eligibility: Has up to three years of experience as a teacher (in any school/school district); librarians are included in this category.  Outstanding New Teacher nomination form

Outstanding Principal

Eligibility: Has at least three years of experience as a building principal (in any school/school district).  Outstanding Principal nomination form

Outstanding Leader 

Eligibility: At least one year of experience in their current position as a Schedule-C or School-Based Administrator scale employee (that is not the building principal):

Common positions in this category: Assistant and Associate Principals, Director of Student Activities, Director of Student Services. Outstanding Leader nomination form

Outstanding Professional Employee 

Eligibility: At least one year experience in current position as a Schedule-B employee or other non-instructional employee in a school that supports school leadership

Common positions in this category: School-Based Technology Specialist, Technology Support Specialist, Assessment Coach, Career Center Specialist, Instructional Coach, Psychologist, Social Worker, School Counselor, Safety and Security Specialist, Resource Teachers that serve in an administrative role in a school.  Outstanding Professional Employee nomination form

Outstanding Operational Employee

Eligibility: At least one year of experience in current position as Schedule-A or Classroom Instructional Support Scale employee

Common positions in this category: Administrative and Office Staff, Safety and Security Assistant, Custodial Staff, Food Service Staff, IA, PHA, PHTA, All Parent Liaisons.  Outstanding Operational Employee nomination form 

**The deadline to submit a nomination is November 6, 2023**

If you have any questions about the process or what category your exceptional employee is in, please contact Ann, Emily or Helly Ahmadyar at [email protected]

Calendar Reminder, Nov 3, 6, 7 and Update for March 5


All FCPS schools have a 2 Hour Early Release Day Friday, November 3rd for the End of 1st Quarter progress report work.  Dismissal is at 11:50am for students. On Monday, November 6, schools are closed for students as staff engage in a school planning day and Tuesday, November 7, schools are closed for students due to the teacher workday. 

Calendar Update for March 5 Presidential PrimaryThe Fairfax Board of Elections has requested that schools be closed on Tuesday, March 5, to accommodate the administration of the 2024 presidential primary election.

March 5 will be a school holiday for students and a virtual School Planning Day. Central offices and school offices will remain open. SACC will remain open, as it does on other professional work days.

Federal Impact Aid Survey is Now Available


Starting on Monday October 16, families can complete the Impact Aid Survey online using their ParentVue accounts.  Learn more about creating a ParentVue account. 

If you are unable to complete the survey online, your student will receive the Federal Impact Aid Survey in their backpacks on November 1st. 

This is a mandatory survey that gets filled each year to help the county collect additional tax monies due to military presence in our area.   For each school-aged child in your household, please complete, sign, date, and return the survey to your child's school by November 14th.

If sections 1 and 2 of the survey do not apply to you, just check the box in Section 3 and sign/date at the bottom of the form.  Please return the form in your child’s backpack. All results are confidential.

Returning this survey is important because information from this survey results in an additional $3 million in grants each year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

Student Attendance


We love having our students at school and hope to see them every day!  We understand, however, that there will be times when illness or other circumstances require an absence.  When this is the case, it is critical that families reach out to notify us regarding the absence.  We are hoping to decrease unexcused absences this year.  Please make medical and dental appointments in the late afternoon so your child can attend as much of the school day as possible.  

You can help by making sure that our office is made aware of the reason for your student’s absence.  In order to excuse an absence and avoid an attendance call, notification of student absence should take place by 9:00am. 

Below are the 3 options by which to notify the school office (choose one option):

Please do this in addition to contacting your child's teacher.  There could be times when the teacher is absent and, by also contacting the office, the information will be properly noted.

In the event that your child needs to be picked up unexpectedly, please call the office (703-313-4000) in advance of your arrival.  This allows the office to contact your student's teacher to prepare your student for departure.

Friday, October 27th is World Occupational Therapy Appreciation Day


On World Occupational Therapy Appreciation Day, we want to express our gratitude and appreciation for the dedicated and compassionate Occupational Therapists (OTs) who make a significant difference in the lives of our students and their families.   Occupational therapy is a profession that focuses upon enabling people to live life to its fullest, regardless of their age, abilities.  World Occupational Therapy Appreciation Day is a time to recognize and honor OTs for their compassion, empathy, and the life-changing work they do every day.  We appreciate our amazing OTs, Kristen Miller and Vivian Swingle, for their dedication to Key Center students. Your work is invaluable, and you truly make our school a better place.

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day - October 28, 2023, 10AM to 2PM


Drop off unused or expired medications at a collection site near you.

Disposal is FREE, convenient, confidential, and safe.   Safe handling of unused or expired medications protects the environment,  prevents drug misuse and prevents accidental poisoning. 

Learn more about year-round prescription and over the counter medication disposal, including those prescribed by veterinarians at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/health/drug-disposal

Real Assistive Technology for Everyone (RATE) Conference 2023


Fairfax County Public Schools will host the 2023 Real Assistive Technology for Everyone (RATE) Conference. The RATE Conference is an educational technology conference focusing on the use of assistive technology to support all students, especially those with special needs. The 2023 RATE Conference is sponsored by Assistive Technology Services (ATS), part of the Office of Special Education Instruction in the Department of Special Services. 

All FCPS educators, staff, parents, and community members are invited to attend. Out of county teachers and support staff are also welcome. FCPS staff will receive five recertification points for attending the conference.

Register for the RATE Conference here.

The Virginia Family’s Guide to Special Education, May 2023


(Available in English, Spanish, Arabic, Amharic, Urdu, & Vietnamese) Virginia Department of Education, VDOE
This publication is a revision of the former A Parent’s Guide to Special Education that was originally published in 2010.

This new state guide was developed by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) to help those involved in special education, whether as families, teachers or school administrators, advocates, or students. Meeting the needs of children with disabilities requires an understanding of rights and responsibilities which include the child’s rights, and the school’s responsibilities to meet their needs. This guide includes a description of the special education process and what is required during each step of that process. Important timelines are highlighted throughout.

Access The Virginia Family’s Guide to Special Education

Trash or Treasure- Save Those Candy Wrappers!


You don’t have to trash those candy wrappers and doom them for an eternity in a landfill- or, even worse, our oceans.  By putting your wrappers in a custom candy wrapper recycling box, you can keep our planet clean and contribute to the circular economy. 

Key Center is participating in the Trash or Treasure recycling program. Staff and families are invited to send in candy wrappers to school.  Students from our vocational program will collect the wrappers from classrooms and add them to the collection box for recycling.  Please check your student’s backpack for a collection bag.  Simply add candy wrappers over the next couple of weeks and return the bag to school. Wrappers returned to Key Center by November 9, 2022 will be sent to Trash or Treasure for recycling.  Thank you for helping to make Halloween sweet and sustainable! 

Learn more about this program on the Trash or Treasure website.

Join Us for the Polar Plunge!


The Key Center community is invited to join our team in GOING FOR THE COLD to benefit Virginia Special Olympics and Key Center School.  Our team will be participating in the Mosaic Polar Plunge on January 20th, 2024.  We are inviting Key Center staff, families, and community partners to join the Key Center Rockets Polar Plunge Team!

Got cold feet?  If you don’t want to join in the fun with our team, please consider sponsoring one of our team members at the team link above- thanks!❄️🧊🚀

Lifetouch Picture Day is Coming Soon - November 8th


Picture Day is on Wednesday November 8th!
 Check your student’s backpack for a flier coming home soon!

Reading Buddies Collaboration with Key Middle School


Key Center students from Ms. Ganley and Ms. Edmondson’s classes have begun participating in a Reading Buddies program with Key Middle School.  The students from Mrs. Larrick’s Key Middle School ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) class get practice reading, while our students enjoy a trip to the library and friendly interactions with middle school students.  Thanks to our librarian, Monisha Blair, for coordinating this wonderful program!

Moving on to Life in the Community Resource Fair Thursday, November 9, 2023, Annandale High School -- 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.


This event is designed for students with more significant disabilities and their families to meet with adult agency and vendor representatives to gather information about available services for adults in need of ongoing support once they transition from FCPS. Agency and vendor representatives will be available to share information on adult service providers, employment and training programs, residential options, leisure activities, and self-advocacy during this exhibitor fair.

Key Center PTA

Not yet a member of our PTA?  We would love to have you join!  

Key Center PTA Membership
Key Center PTA Donations
Key Center PTA Volunteer Opportunities

Any questions regarding involvement, please contact PTA President, Cecilia Allen, at [email protected] or (301) 646-7447.

Upcoming Dates


October 23-27           Homecoming Week
November 3              End of 1st Quarter - 2 hour Early Release - 11:50am
November 6              School Planning Day - Student Holiday
November 7              Teacher Work Day - Student Holiday
November 22-24       Thanksgiving Break - Holiday       

2023-24 FCPS School Calendar

6404 Franconia Road Springfield, VA 22150  | Main Office: 703-313-4000
Attendance: 703-313-4000 | Web | Facebook

Weekly Newsletter 10/18/2023

GovDelivery1 month 2 weeks ago

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 boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

Federal Impact Aid Survey is Now Available


Starting on Monday October 16, families can complete the Impact Aid Survey online using their ParentVue accounts.  Learn more about creating a ParentVue account. 

If you are unable to complete the survey online, your student will receive the Federal Impact Aid Survey in their backpacks on November 1st. 

This is a mandatory survey that gets filled each year to help the county collect additional tax monies due to military presence in our area.   For each school-aged child in your household, please complete, sign, date, and return the survey to your child's school no later than November 14th.

If sections 1 and 2 of the survey do not apply to you, just check the box in Section 3 and sign/date at the bottom of the form.  Please return the form in your child’s backpack. All results are confidential.

Returning this survey is important because information from this survey results in an additional $3 million in grants each year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

Homecoming


Fall Homecoming Spirit Week (10/23-10/27
) -  check your student’s backpack for the Spirit Week flier

We are excited to announce our Superhero-themed Homecoming Spirit Week!

Marvel Monday: Dress as your favorite SUPERHERO 

Team Tuesday:  Represent your favorite SPORTS TEAM

Cozy Wednesday:  Rest and relax in your COMFY CLOTHES

Spirit Wear Thursday:  Wear Your HALLWAY COLOR for the PEP RALLY (teachers will notify you of your student’s hallway color)

Dress for Success Friday:  Wear your BEST for the Homecoming Dance

Nominate an Outstanding Key Center Employee


Nominations are now open for the Outstanding Employee Awards! To submit a nomination for a  Key Center School Outstanding Employee in one of the categories, please complete the nomination through Google link for each category found below. You may nominate one or more employees at Key Center (one individual may only nominate one employee per category.)

All that is required for a preliminary nomination is a paragraph or two about how this employee demonstrates exceptional work in the criteria for that category. The google form link has more information regarding the criteria for each of these awards and the eligibility requirements are below.

Outstanding Teacher 

Eligibility: Has at least three years of experience as a teacher (in any school/school district); librarians are included in this category. Outstanding Teacher nomination form.

Outstanding New Teacher

Eligibility: Has up to three years of experience as a teacher (in any school/school district); librarians are included in this category.  Outstanding New Teacher nomination form

Outstanding Principal

Eligibility: Has at least three years of experience as a building principal (in any school/school district).  Outstanding Principal nomination form

Outstanding Leader 

Eligibility: At least one year of experience in their current position as a Schedule-C or School-Based Administrator scale employee (that is not the building principal):

Common positions in this category: Assistant and Associate Principals, Director of Student Activities, Director of Student Services. Outstanding Leader nomination form

Outstanding Professional Employee 

Eligibility: At least one year experience in current position as a Schedule-B employee or other non-instructional employee in a school that supports school leadership

Common positions in this category: School-Based Technology Specialist, Technology Support Specialist, Assessment Coach, Career Center Specialist, Instructional Coach, Psychologist, Social Worker, School Counselor, Safety and Security Specialist, Resource Teachers that serve in an administrative role in a school.  Outstanding Professional Employee nomination form

Outstanding Operational Employee

Eligibility: At least one year of experience in current position as Schedule-A or Classroom Instructional Support Scale employee

Common positions in this category: Administrative and Office Staff, Safety and Security Assistant, Custodial Staff, Food Service Staff, IA, PHA, PHTA, All Parent Liaisons (regardless of how they are paid).  Outstanding Operational Employee nomination form

**The deadline to submit a nomination is November 6, 2023**

If you have any questions, please contact Helly Ahmadyar at [email protected]

Real Assistive Technology for Everyone (RATE) Conference 2023


Fairfax County Public Schools will host the 2023 Real Assistive Technology for Everyone (RATE) Conference. The RATE Conference is an educational technology conference focusing on the use of assistive technology to support all students, especially those with special needs. The 2023 RATE Conference is sponsored by Assistive Technology Services (ATS), part of the Office of Special Education Instruction in the Department of Special Services. 

All FCPS educators, staff, parents, and community members are invited to attend. Out of county teachers and support staff are also welcome. FCPS staff will receive five recertification points for attending the conference.

Register for the RATE Conference here.

New School Lunch Menu Options


Healthy and nutritious school lunches aren’t just tasty, they’re also important building blocks for academic success! Celebrate National School Lunch Week with us by learning about FCPS’ new menu options and meeting Food and Nutrition Services Executive Director Shaun Sawko (above). Check out this feature article and video.

Lifetouch Picture Day is Coming Soon - November 8th


Picture Day is on Wednesday November 8th!
 Check your student’s backpack for a flier coming home soon!

Environmental Stewardship- Key Center’s Get2Green Club


Key Center has established a Get2Green Environmental Stewardship club.  FCPS provides funding, information and resources to support students in learning about being good stewards of our school and environment.  The activities that our Get2Green Club plans to support include:  

  • school-wide recycling 
  • composting food scraps to create rich, new soil
  • maintaining our school garden
  • beautifying school grounds and supporting local wildlife by planting native plant species

In October, the Get2Green Club meetings were focused on collecting information for Key Center’s Get2Green School audit.  Students participated in the evaluation of our school’s environmental stewardship by checking classrooms for recycle bins/posters.  They also used bluetooth switches and iPads to take pictures of our school’s Earth-friendly features such as the garden, compost bin, recycling areas and water bottle filler.

FInd out more on the FCPS Get2Green website.

Digital Citizenship Week- October 16th-20th


What is Digital Citizenship?
 

Digital Citizenship means being safe, kind, and responsible when using technology (iPads, computers, cell phones, TVs, etc.).  Fairfax County Public Schools recognizes the importance of supporting all students in becoming responsible and safe digital citizens.  This week, our students are participating in an adapted lesson/activity that helps them learn about media balance.  Using the picture book When Charlie McButton Lost Power, students are learning about when and why to take breaks from device time.  

For more information about DIgital Citizenship, you can visit the FCPS Digital Citizenship page.

Moving on to Life in the Community Resource Fair

Thursday, November 9, 2023, Annandale High School -- 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.


This event is designed for students with more significant disabilities and their families to meet with adult agency and vendor representatives to gather information about available services for adults in need of ongoing support once they transition from FCPS. Agency and vendor representatives will be available to share information on adult service providers, employment and training programs, residential options, leisure activities, and self-advocacy during this exhibitor fair.

Key Center PTA


Not yet a member of our PTA?  We would love to have you join!  

Key Center PTA Membership
Key Center PTA Donations
Key Center PTA Volunteer Opportunities

Any questions regarding involvement, please contact PTA President, Cecilia Allen, at [email protected] or (301) 646-7447.

Upcoming Dates


October 23-27           Homecoming Week
November 6              School Planning Day - Student Holiday
November 7              Teacher Work Day - Student Holiday
November 22-24       Thanksgiving Break - Holiday       

2023-24 FCPS School Calendar

6404 Franconia Road Springfield, VA 22150  | Main Office: 703-313-4000
Attendance: 703-313-4000 | Web | Facebook

Weekly Newsletter 10/11/2023

GovDelivery1 month 3 weeks ago

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 boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

PTA Sponsored Family Dinner Event


Our Key Center PTA Family Night is TONIGHT, Wed Oct. 11 at 5:30! Students and staff can bring their family and enjoy a meal together. There will be a brief PTA activity to be completed as we offer the draft 2023-24 annual budget. 

The food will be provided free of charge, come enjoy some pizza and we’ll have pasta for students/children.

POP UP Spirit Day - this Friday! Wear Blue and Yellow for Down Syndrome Awareness Month


October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month, a chance to spread awareness. During the month of October, we celebrate people with Down Syndrome and make people aware of our abilities and accomplishments. It’s not about celebrating disabilities, it’s about celebrating abilities.

ABA Family Training- Applied Behavior Analysis Overview


This workshop is intended for parents of students with the low incidence disabilities of Autism and Intellectual Disabilities. Topics covered will include:
▪ What is Applied Behavior Analysis?
▪ How are behaviors learned?
▪ What is reinforcement?

October 11th, 2023

7:00pm - 8:30pm

Join using this meeting link: https://meet.google.com/cgn-udci-kbh

All family members and caregivers are welcome to attend ABA Family Training. To register or to request an interpreter, contact Liane Sprunk at (571) 423-4110 or by email at [email protected] and provide your name and contact information  (phone number and/or email) in case we need to contact you. For additional questions, contact Tina Wilkerson by email at [email protected].

Moving on to Life in the Community Resource Fair Thursday, November 9, 2023, Annandale High School -- 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.


This event is designed for students with more significant disabilities and their families to meet with adult agency and vendor representatives to gather information about available services for adults in need of ongoing support once they transition from FCPS. Agency and vendor representatives will be available to share information on adult service providers, employment and training programs, residential options, leisure activities, and self-advocacy during this exhibitor fair.

Opportunity for Funding for Students on Waiver Waiting List


Beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Monday, October 16th, individuals on Virginia's Developmental Disability Waiver Waiting List will be able to access the IFSP-Funding Portal in WaMS to create and submit an application.

  • First day to access, create, and submit the application: 
    October 16th at 9:00 a.m. 
  • Last day to submit an application:
    November 14th at 5:00 p.m.

VIrtual Training Sessions:

To assist individuals and families with completing funding applications, IFSP staff will offer virtual training sessions using ZoomGov.  These trainings will provide a demonstration of how to access and navigate the IFSP-Funding Portal in WaMS, and provide an opportunity to submit questions to the IFSP staff. 

 Spaces are limited, so please save your spot and register using the link below:

 Thursday, October 12th at 10 a.m.

️ IMPORTANT

The application portal will be open for one month. Determinations no longer follow the previously established first-come, first-served approval process — so please take your time to apply! For more details on the Funding process and criteria, please review our Program Guidelines at https://tinyurl.com/mlmc-funding

Before you begin, here are a few reminders:  

  • To be eligible to apply, all applicants must be on the Developmental Disability Waiver Waiting List and be living in their own home, or in their family's home.
  • During this Funding cycle, ALL applicants in Priorities 1, 2, and 3 will be able to apply at the same time. You will NOT need to know your priority status in order to apply.
  • Applicants with a Priority 1 waitlist status may apply for up to $1,000. Applicants with a Priority 2 or Priority 3 waitlist status may apply for up to $500.
  •  No changes have been made to the Funding Program Guidelines since the most recent Funding cycle that ended in February of this year.

To access the application, please go to https://www.dbhds.virginia.gov/waitlistforms.

SibTeen


SibTeen is a community-building group for Middle School students (grades 7-8) who have a sibling with disabilities. We will have fun activities, both recreational and art-based, as well as discussion activities.  It’s a unique opportunity for students to share about their lives and support each other while normalizing their life experiences. SibTeen is a place where participants will feel validated and understood and can build upon their community of support. And…. there will be snacks!

Our Pilot SibTeen workshop is scheduled for:

Monday, November 6, 2023, from 1-4:00 p.m.at Providence Community Center

Presented by FCPS School Social Work Services

View the individual event page if you would like to share this event with others.

Register for: SIBTeen: An Exciting, In-person Workshop for Brothers and Sisters of Children with Special Needs!

October is AAC Awareness Month


October is AAC Awareness Month!  Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) refers to the different tools and methods that people use to communicate. This can include strategies and tools, sign language, a pen and paper, or technological solutions such as speech-generating devices. 

AAC allows everyone to have a voice and be heard. It gives everyone the power to express their thoughts, needs, and ideas. Our students use a wide variety of AAC tools to support their communication.  When we embrace AAC, we foster an environment where every voice, regardless of its form, can contribute to our community!

Principal Appreciation Month


Each October, National Principals Month recognizes the essential role that principals play in making a school great.

Principals are among the hardest working, yet often least recognized individuals in education. Principals set the academic tone for their schools, and it is their vision, dedication, and determination that provide the mobilizing force for achieving student success. Each October, NASSP, NAESP, and AFSA seek to honor these unsung heroes for their tireless efforts in pursuit of excellence in education.

National Principals Month is a widely recognized celebration of the principalship, marked by national and state resolutions supporting the event, as well as acknowledgements from U.S. Senators and Representatives, and top government officials. However, the most important National Principals Month celebrations are the ones that take place in schools and communities across the country.

See National School Principals Month.

Key Center PTA


Not yet a member of our PTA?  We would love to have you join!  

Key Center PTA Membership
Key Center PTA Donations
Key Center PTA Volunteer Opportunities

Any questions regarding involvement, please contact PTA President, Cecilia Allen, at [email protected] or (301) 646-7447.

Upcoming Dates


October 11 (5:30)      PTA Family Dinner Event
November 6              School Planning Day - Student Holiday
November 7              Teacher Work Day - Student Holiday
November 22-24       Thanksgiving Break - Holiday       

2023-24 FCPS School Calendar

6404 Franconia Road Springfield, VA 22150  | Main Office: 703-313-4000
Attendance: 703-313-4000 | Web | Facebook

Weekly Newsletter 10/4/2023

GovDelivery2 months ago

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 boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

Indigenous Peoples’ Day - October 9th - Student Holiday


Indigenous Peoples' Day honors the histories, cultures, and contributions of Native peoples, past and present. This year, Monday, October 9, is a student holiday and staff development day. Learn more about Indigenous Peoples’ Day from the National Museum of the American Indian.

PTA Sponsored Family Dinner Event


Our Key Center PTA Family Night is next week, Wed Oct. 11 at 5:30! Students and staff can bring their family and enjoy a meal together. There will be a brief PTA activity to be completed as we offer the draft 2023-24 annual budget. 

The food will be provided free of charge, come enjoy some pizza and we’ll have pasta for students/children.  Be sure to RSVP so we can order our food quantities accordingly.

National Custodian Appreciation Day


Monday, October 2nd was National Custodian Appreciation Day.  We are pleased to recognize our outstanding custodial staff who ensure that we all have a safe, clean, and comfortable place to work and learn.  Thank you for all that you do, custodians!

ABA Family Training- Applied Behavior Analysis Overview


This workshop is intended for parents of students with the low incidence disabilities of Autism and Intellectual Disabilities. Topics covered will include:
▪ What is Applied Behavior Analysis?
▪ How are behaviors learned?
▪ What is reinforcement?

October 11th, 2023 Choose one virtual session:

10:00am - 11:30am or 7:00pm - 8:30pm

Join using this meeting link: https://meet.google.com/cgn-udci-kbh

All family members and caregivers are welcome to attend ABA Family Training. To register or to request an interpreter, contact Liane Sprunk at (571) 423-4110 or by email at [email protected] and provide your name and contact information  (phone number and/or email) in case we need to contact you. For additional questions, contact Tina Wilkerson by email at [email protected].

Moving on to Life in the Community Resource Fair Thursday, November 9, 2023, Annandale High School -- 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.


This event is designed for students with more significant disabilities and their families to meet with adult agency and vendor representatives to gather information about available services for adults in need of ongoing support once they transition from FCPS. Agency and vendor representatives will be available to share information on adult service providers, employment and training programs, residential options, leisure activities, and self-advocacy during this exhibitor fair.

Opportunity for Funding for Students on Waiver Waiting List


Beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Monday, October 16th, individuals on Virginia's Developmental Disability Waiver Waiting List will be able to access the IFSP-Funding Portal in WaMS to create and submit an application.

  • First day to access, create, and submit the application:  October 16th at 9:00 a.m. 
  • Last day to submit an application: November 14th at 5:00 p.m.

VIrtual Training Sessions:

To assist individuals and families with completing funding applications, IFSP staff will offer virtual training sessions using ZoomGov.  These trainings will provide a demonstration of how to access and navigate the IFSP-Funding Portal in WaMS, and provide an opportunity to submit questions to the IFSP staff. 

 Spaces are limited, so please save your spot and register using the link below:

 Thursday, October 12th at 10 a.m.

⚠️ IMPORTANT ⚠️

The application portal will be open for one month. Determinations no longer follow the previously established first-come, first-served approval process — so please take your time to apply! For more details on the Funding process and criteria, please review our Program Guidelines at https://tinyurl.com/mlmc-funding

Before you begin, here are a few reminders:  

  • To be eligible to apply, all applicants must be on the Developmental Disability Waiver Waiting List and be living in their own home, or in their family's home.
  • During this Funding cycle, ALL applicants in Priorities 1, 2, and 3 will be able to apply at the same time. You will NOT need to know your priority status in order to apply.
  • Applicants with a Priority 1 waitlist status may apply for up to $1,000. Applicants with a Priority 2 or Priority 3 waitlist status may apply for up to $500.
  •  No changes have been made to the Funding Program Guidelines since the most recent Funding cycle that ended in February of this year.

To access the application, please go to https://www.dbhds.virginia.gov/waitlistforms.

SIBSHOPS: An Exciting, In-person Workshop for Brothers and Sisters of Children with Special Needs!


The Sibshop workshops are for children in grades 2-6 enrolled in Fairfax County Public Schools who have siblings with special needs to:

Meet other siblings in a relaxed setting.

Celebrate the many contributions made by brothers and sisters of children with special needs.

Share sibling experiences and receive peer support.

Play games and have fun!

Monday, October 9, 2023, 9 a.m.- noon at Providence Community Center

Presented by FCPS School Social Work Services

View the individual event page if you would like to share this event with others.

Register for: SIBSHOPS: An Exciting, In-person Workshop for Brothers and Sisters of Children with Special Needs!

Key Center Welcomes Military Families


Last week, Key Center Staff and students celebrated Blue Star Welcome Week.  This exciting week is an opportunity for our community to welcome our military-connected families and show them our appreciation for their service.  We identified themes for each day and invited students and staff to dress according to the theme.  Per usual, our community did not disappoint.  There was an abundance of camouflage, stars/sparkles, and superheroes on display all week long.  Thank you military families!

Disability History and Awareness Month


In 2009, a committed group of youth with disabilities initiated a campaign to have Virginia officially recognize October as Disability History and Awareness Month (DHAM). The youth also developed a vision statement: “Disability history education and awareness will promote positive attitudes in schools creating a culture of mutual respect, understanding, and equal opportunities for all.”

Several groups collaborated on a variety of resources that can be used to promote and highlight DHAM in Virginia. These resources can be found at the following websites: Inclusion Project, Virginia Board for People with Disabilities (Training), A Life 4 MeHistory of Disability, and PEATC Youth Advisory Board.

Key Center PTA

Not yet a member of our PTA?  We would love to have you join!  

Key Center PTA Membership
Key Center PTA Donations
Key Center PTA Volunteer Opportunities

Any questions regarding involvement, please contact PTA President, Cecilia Allen, at [email protected] or (301) 646-7447.

Upcoming Dates


October 9                  Staff Development Day - Student Holiday 
October 11 (5:30)      PTA Family Dinner Event
November 6              School Planning Day - Student Holiday
November 7              Teacher Work Day - Student Holiday
November 22-24       Thanksgiving Break - Holiday       

2023-24 FCPS School Calendar

6404 Franconia Road Springfield, VA 22150  | Main Office: 703-313-4000
Attendance: 703-313-4000 | Web | Facebook

Weekly Newsletter 9/27/2023

GovDelivery2 months 1 week ago

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 boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

PTA Sponsored Family Dinner Event


We are happy to announce that the Key Center PTA will be hosting an evening event on Wednesday, October 11th at 5:30.  This event will provide the opportunity for Key Center families and staff to come together to collaborate and enjoy a meal together.  We will also be reviewing and approving the Key Center PTA’s 23-24 annual budget.  This event is FREE for you and your family- we plan to serve pizza (with some pasta available for students/children).  

We hope that you can join us!   Check your student’s backpack today for a flier and response form.  Please return your half sheet response page back to school by Tuesday, October 3rd.

Superintendent Community Conversations


You are invited to attend a Community Conversation with Superintendent, Dr. Michelle Reid.The event for our area (Region 6) was held on September 26th.  If you were unable to attend this event, you are invited to attend one of the upcoming  events held in nearby FCPS regions:

September 27, 2023, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. at Whitman Middle School

Whitman Middle School 2500 Parkers Ln, Alexandria, VA 22306. Please register.

This event is intended for schools in FCPS Region 3, but is open for all.  

October 3, 2023 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. at Glasgow Middle School

Glasgow Middle School 4101 Fairfax Parkway, Alexandria, VA 22312. Please register.

This event is intended for schools in FCPS Region 2, but is open for all. 

Workshops and Webinars for Caregivers Available on YouTube


The Family Resource Center offers a range of workshops and webinars on YouTube to help families and educators support student success. Topics covered in these videos include executive functioning, challenging behavior, autism, early childhood, digital citizenship, ADHD, mindfulness, calm parenting, special education, military-connected families, and twice-exceptional students. Contact the Family Resource Center at [email protected] or 703-204-3941 for more information.

Opportunity for Funding for Students on Waiver Waiting List


Beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Monday, October 16th, individuals on Virginia's Developmental Disability Waiver Waiting List will be able to access the IFSP-Funding Portal in WaMS to create and submit an application.

  • First day to access, create, and submit the application: October 16th at 9:00 a.m. 
  • Last day to submit an application: November 14th at 5:00 p.m.

VIrtual Training Sessions:

To assist individuals and families with completing funding applications, IFSP staff will offer virtual training sessions using ZoomGov.  These trainings will provide a demonstration of how to access and navigate the IFSP-Funding Portal in WaMS, and provide an opportunity to submit questions to the IFSP staff. 

 Spaces are limited, so please save your spot and register using the links below:

  Wednesday, October 4th at 2 p.m       

OR           

 Thursday, October 12th at 10 a.m.

⚠️ IMPORTANT ⚠️

The application portal will be open for one month. Determinations no longer follow the previously established first-come, first-served approval process — so please take your time to apply! For more details on the Funding process and criteria, please review our Program Guidelines at https://tinyurl.com/mlmc-funding

Before you begin, here are a few reminders:  

  • To be eligible to apply, all applicants must be on the Developmental Disability Waiver Waiting List and be living in their own home, or in their family's home.
  • During this Funding cycle, ALL applicants in Priorities 1, 2, and 3 will be able to apply at the same time. You will NOT need to know your priority status in order to apply.
  • Applicants with a Priority 1 waitlist status may apply for up to $1,000. Applicants with a Priority 2 or Priority 3 waitlist status may apply for up to $500.
  •  No changes have been made to the Funding Program Guidelines since the most recent Funding cycle that ended in February of this year.

To access the application, please go tohttps://www.dbhds.virginia.gov/waitlistforms.

Fairfax County Economic Mobility Pilot


The Fairfax County Economic Mobility Pilot (FCEMP) will provide monthly cash payments to eligible, randomly selected households along with optional financial coaching and supportive resources to promote economic stability and social capital.  Fairfax County has designed the  pilot to focus on households, referred to as the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) population, which may earn too much income to be eligible for some assistance programs.  

Funding for this program is provided by federal funds as part of the American Recovery Plan Act and supported also by the Fairfax County Human Services Council’s Innovation Fund.  The FCEMP includes three elements:

  • A monthly payment of $750 to 180 eligible families for 15 months
  • Freedom of choice for the families to use the cash as they deem necessary
  • Optional financial coaching and the opportunity to increase their social networks through virtual or in person events

Apply online between September 23 through October 3, 2023.

For more information visit https://bit.ly/FairfaxEconMobility or email at [email protected]

SIBSHOPS: An Exciting, In-person Workshop for Brothers and Sisters of Children with Special Needs!


The Sibshop workshops are for children in grades 2-6 enrolled in Fairfax County Public Schools who have siblings with special needs to:

Meet other siblings in a relaxed setting.

Celebrate the many contributions made by brothers and sisters of children with special needs.

Share sibling experiences and receive peer support.

Play games and have fun!

Monday, October 9, 2023, 9 a.m.- noon at Providence Community Center

Presented by FCPS School Social Work Services

View the individual event page if you would like to share this event with others.

Register for: SIBSHOPS: An Exciting, In-person Workshop for Brothers and Sisters of Children with Special Needs! 

Key Center Students Enjoy Musical Magic Presentation

On Friday, September 22nd, Key Center students were treated to an entertaining and educational assembly by Musico the Magnificent.  Many Thanks to Taffy Presents for bringing our school another awesome event!

Key Center PTA

Not yet a member of our PTA?  We would love to have you join!  

Key Center PTA Membership
Key Center PTA Donations
Key Center PTA Volunteer Opportunities

Any questions regarding involvement, please contact PTA President, Cecilia Allen, at [email protected] or (301) 646-7447.

Upcoming Dates


October 9                  Staff Development Day - Student Holiday 
October 11 (5:30)      PTA Family Dinner Event
November 6              School Planning Day - Student Holiday
November 7              Teacher Work Day - Student Holiday
November 22-24       Thanksgiving Break - Holiday       

2023-24 FCPS School Calendar

6404 Franconia Road Springfield, VA 22150  | Main Office: 703-313-4000
Attendance: 703-313-4000 | Web | Facebook

Weekly Newsletter 9/20/2023

GovDelivery2 months 2 weeks ago

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 boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

Monday, September 25 -  Student Holiday


All FCPS schools and offices will be closed on Monday, September 25, for Yom Kippur, the holiest day in Judaism. See the complete school year calendar. Learn more about Yom Kippur on Brittanica.com.

Blue Star Welcome Week 2023


Every year, approximately 600,000 military-connected families relocate. Most of these families move to new duty stations, while some transition out of the military and others transition in. Most of these moves take place over the summer, and Fairfax County Public Schools is committed to ensuring our military families feel welcomed and a sense of belonging to their local community. 

Blue Star Welcome Week is an opportunity for our community to welcome our military-connected families and show them our appreciation for their service and sacrifices. Throughout the week, FCPS will help ease their transition through events, messages, actions of welcome, and opportunities to make meaningful connections. Please help us welcome our military families during Blue Star Welcome Week, September 23 - October 1, 2023, and throughout the year! #BlueStarWelcomeWeekFCPS 

Every year, approximately 600,000 military-connected families—or roughly 33% of the All-Volunteer Force—relocate. Most of these families move to new duty stations, while some transition out of the military and others transition in. And most of these moves take place during the summer. While more than 70% of military families live off base in their local civilian communities, according to Blue Star Families' 2022 Military Family Lifestyle Survey, only 33% of military family respondents reported they felt a sense of belonging in their local community.

Key Center is celebrating Blue Star Welcome Week with the following Spirit Days:

September 26 – 29 Blue Star Welcome Week Spirit Days

9/26 – “Proud to be an American” – wear Red/White/Blue

9/27 – “Crazy Camo” – wear your camouflage clothes

9/28 – “Military Parents are Superheroes” – Wear your favorite Superhero look!

9/29 – “Our Troops Allow America to Shine Bright & Sparkle”-  Wear stars or shiny sparkles

Coming soon – PTA Sponsored Family Night Out!

 

Key Center will host a family event, with a light dinner and time to socialize with one another.  A short PTA meeting will be held to conduct PTA related business, join us for food and social time!

Attendance/Absenteeism

When a Student Should Stay Home From School

Whether students miss school because of illness or any other reason, missing school leads to learning loss.

Help your student succeed by encouraging them to attend as many days as possible, but do make sure your student stays home if they are sick. Visit FCPS’ website for information on when you should keep your child at home.

If your child has a chronic illness, make sure to notify their teacher, so that assistance can be provided if needed. Please contact us as soon as you know your child will be absent. 

Read more about how families can help form good attendance habits.

Tips to Stay Healthy 

Flu season is quickly approaching and communicable diseases continue to be present in our schools. Families and staff are encouraged to follow the health practices below to prevent the spread of illnesses and help keep our schools safe:

  • Make an appointment to get a flu vaccine as soon as possible. Everyone six months and older should get a flu vaccine (with rare exceptions). Flu vaccines are widely available at doctors’ and pediatricians’ offices, grocery stores, and pharmacies.
  • Get vaccinated against COVID-19 if you have not done so already. As of Tuesday, September 12, updated COVID-19 vaccines are approved for use among those aged 6 months or older for the 2023-24 season. Find out where you can get a COVID-19 vaccine or booster in your community by visiting Vaccinate Virginia, or calling 877-VAX-IN-VA or 877-829-4682. Note: Flu vaccines and COVID vaccines can be provided in the same appointment.
  • Check with your student’s healthcare provider to make sure they are up to date on their required school entrance immunizations. Immunization records can now be updated in SIS ParentVUE through the Online Verification Update form.
  • Check for mild, cold-like symptoms each day, such as fever, runny nose, cough, or shortness of breath. If a child is sick, please keep them home and get them tested for COVID-19 to stop further spread from occurring. Additional guidance on when to keep your child home due to symptoms and illness is available on the FCPS Attendance webpage. FCPS employees are also advised to stay home and get tested when feeling sick.
  • Don’t forget to wash hands regularly, avoid touching the face with unwashed hands, cover the mouth when coughing or sneezing, and limit the time children spend in large group settings with contagious individuals whenever possible.

The most up-to-date information regarding COVID-19 school health practices is available on the Health and Safety Guidance webpage.

Thank you for your continued partnership in keeping our schools safe and healthy.

Fairfax County Economic Mobility Pilot


The Fairfax County Economic Mobility Pilot (FCEMP) will provide monthly cash payments to eligible, randomly selected households along with optional financial coaching and supportive resources to promote economic stability and social capital.  Fairfax County has designed the  pilot to focus on households, referred to as the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) population, which may earn too much income to be eligible for some assistance programs.  

Funding for this program is provided by federal funds as part of the American Recovery Plan Act and supported also by the Fairfax County Human Services Council’s Innovation Fund.  The FCEMP includes three elements:

  • A monthly payment of $750 to 180 eligible families for 15 months
  • Freedom of choice for the families to use the cash as they deem necessary
  • Optional financial coaching and the opportunity to increase their social networks through virtual or in person events

Apply online between September 23 through October 3, 2023.

For more information visit https://bit.ly/FairfaxEconMobility or email at [email protected]

SIBSHOPS: An Exciting, In-person Workshop for Brothers and Sisters of Children with Special Needs!


The Sibshop workshops are for children in grades 2-6 enrolled in Fairfax County Public Schools who have siblings with special needs to:

Meet other siblings in a relaxed setting.

Celebrate the many contributions made by brothers and sisters of children with special needs.

Share sibling experiences and receive peer support.

Play games and have fun!

Monday, October 9, 2023, 9 a.m.- noon at Providence Community Center

Presented by FCPS School Social Work Services

View the individual event page if you would like to share this event with others.

Register for: SIBSHOPS: An Exciting, In-person Workshop for Brothers and Sisters of Children with Special Needs!

Key Center Students Get Active with Adapted Physical Education


Key Center’s Adapted Physical Education (APE) staff have been busy this year getting students active in the gym and throughout our school environment.  The goals of Adapted Physical Education include improving physical fitness, motor skills, coordination, self-esteem, social interaction, and overall well-being. By focusing on individualized instruction and adjustments, APE aims to provide every student, regardless of their disability, with opportunities to lead an active and healthy lifestyle. This program plays a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life and promoting physical wellness for our students.

National Hispanic Heritage Month


From September 15 to October 15, FCPS recognizes and celebrates the histories and cultures of the members of our community who trace their heritage to Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. Learn more about National Hispanic Heritage Month

Fairfax FiestaFairfax County's inaugural Hispanic Heritage Celebration, the Fairfax Fiesta, is taking place on Saturday, Sept. 23, from noon to 5 p.m., at the PARC at Tysons (8508 Leesburg Pike). The free event, presented by the Fairfax County Government and Celebrate Fairfax, aims to provide an extraordinary experience for all ages and backgrounds. Learn more about Fairfax Fiesta.

FCPS Applied Behavior Analysis Family Training


A workshop intended for parents of students with low incidence disabilities of Autism and Intellectual Disabilities will be presented by the FCPS Applied Behavior Analysis(ABA) training on  September 20, 2023.  This presentation is entitled Collaboration: Building Successful Home and School Support Teams.  

 Topics covered will include:

▪ What is collaboration?

▪ Who’s who within the school system?

▪ Who do I ask questions?

▪ How can you facilitate collaboration?

Choose one virtual session on September 20th:  

10:00am - 11:30am

or

7:00pm - 8:30pm

Join using this meeting link: https://meet.google.com/cgn-udci-kbh

Northern Virginia Resource Center for Deaf & Hard of Hearing Persons Annual Information Fair


Date:  Saturday, September 23, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m.

Join Northern Virginia Resource Center for their Celebrate Communication event, the area’s premier information fair for anyone with an interest in or connection to hearing loss. See the latest in hearing assistive technologies, apps, local agency services, hearing aids, cochlear implants, captioning, ASL, and much more!  Find out more and register on the Celebrate Communication website.

Key Center PTA

Not yet a member of our PTA?  We would love to have you join! 

Key Center PTA Membership 
Key Center PTA Donations
Key CenterPTA Volunteer Opportunities

Any questions regarding involvement, please contact PTA President, Cecilia Allen, at [email protected] or (301) 646-7447.

Upcoming Dates

Family Social, Dinner & PTA Meeting - coming soon!

September 25           Religious Observance (Yom Kippur) - Holiday
October 9                  Staff Development Day - Student Holiday
November 6              School Planning Day - Student Holiday
November 7              Teacher Work Day - Student Holiday
November 22-24       Thanksgiving Break - Holiday       

2023-24 FCPS School Calendar

6404 Franconia Road Springfield, VA 22150  | Main Office: 703-313-4000
Attendance: 703-313-4000 | Web | Facebook

Weekly Newsletter 9/13/2023

GovDelivery2 months 3 weeks ago

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 boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

Coming soon – PTA Sponsored Family Night Out!


Key Center will host a family event, with a light dinner and time to socialize with one another.  A short PTA meeting will be held to conduct PTA related business, join us for food and social time!

Stay tuned for the date, time will be 5:00pm.

2023-24 Health and Safety Guidance for Schools


Although the COVID-19 hospital transmission level (previously the COVID-19 Community Transmission level) for Fairfax County is currently low, COVID-19 cases have risen in Virginia during the last few weeks, and flu season will soon be upon us. Be sure to review FCPS Health and Safety Guidance for the best ways to prevent the spread of disease and to find out when students should stay home from school.

Reporting Student Absences

We love having our students at school and hope to see them every day!  We understand, however, that there will be times when illness or other circumstances require an absence.  When this is the case, it is critical that families reach out to notify us regarding the absence.  We are hoping to decrease unexcused absences this year.  You can help by making sure that our office is made aware of the reason for your student’s absence.  In order to excuse an absence and avoid an attendance call, notification of student absence should take place by 9:00am. 

Below are the 3 options by which to notify the school office (choose one option):

Please do this in addition to contacting your child's teacher.  There could be times when the teacher is absent and, by also contacting the office, the information will be properly noted.

In the event that your child needs to be picked up unexpectedly, please call the office (703-313-4000) in advance of your arrival.  This allows the office to contact your student's teacher to prepare your student for departure.

Key Center Observes Patriot Day


On Monday, September 11th, we remembered and honored the victims, families, heroes, and survivors of 9/11, and the courage and determination of our nation's first responders. Key Center staff and students observed this day with a variety of learning activities. Classes learned about the events of September 11th and the impact on our country, citizens, and first responders. Students also created their own Freedom Flag and wrote letters, thanking first responders. #NeverForget

Rosh Hashanah


Friday, September 15, is a half-O day in recognition of Rosh Hashanah, which begins at sundown. Half-O days are full school days, but important events will not be held after school on those days.

National Hispanic Heritage Month


From September 15 to October 15, FCPS recognizes and celebrates the histories and cultures of the members of our community who trace their heritage to Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. Learn more about National Hispanic Heritage Month

Fairfax Fiesta Fairfax County's inaugural Hispanic Heritage Celebration, the Fairfax Fiesta, is taking place on Saturday, Sept. 23, from noon to 5 p.m., at the PARC at Tysons (8508 Leesburg Pike). The free event, presented by the Fairfax County Government and Celebrate Fairfax, aims to provide an extraordinary experience for all ages and backgrounds. Learn more about Fairfax Fiesta.

Jill’s House - Weeknight School Partnerships


Weeknight School Partnership program offers families raising individuals
with intellectual disabilities to get a break, while their children have the
opportunity to experience a variety of activities made just for them.

The weeknight program provides safe overnight stays for
individuals with intellectual disabilities ages 6–22. Under the
supervision of our trained Client Care Specialists (CCS’s)
and nurses, each individual has the opportunity to gain
independence and peer-to-peer socialization skills. Whether
they are swimming in our heated indoor pool, enjoying the
music room, playing on the playground, or creating art in the
art room, there is an activity for everyone!

For more information on the program, visit jillshouse.org or
contact our Intake Department at 703-639-5670.

Check your student’s backpack for information about a FREE Open House on Sept 18 for families to attend!

FCPS Applied Behavior Analysis Family Training


A workshop intended for parents of students with low incidence disabilities of Autism and Intellectual Disabilities will be presented by the FCPS Applied Behavior Analysis(ABA) training on September 20, 2023. This presentation is entitled Collaboration: Building Successful Home and School Support Teams.

Topics covered will include:

▪ What is collaboration?
▪ Who’s who within the school system?
▪ Who do I ask questions?
▪ How can you facilitate collaboration?

Choose one virtual session on September 20th:
10:00am - 11:30am
or
7:00pm - 8:30pm

Join using this meeting link: https://meet.google.com/cgn-udci-kbh

Northern Virginia Resource Center for Deaf & Hard of Hearing Persons Annual Information Fair


Date:  Saturday, September 23, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m.

Join Northern Virginia Resource Center for their Celebrate Communication event, the area’s premier information fair for anyone with an interest in or connection to hearing loss. See the latest in hearing assistive technologies, apps, local agency services, hearing aids, cochlear implants, captioning, ASL, and much more!  Find out more and register on the Celebrate Communication website.

Key Center PTA


Not yet a member of our PTA?  We would love to have you join! 


Key Center PTA Membership 
Key Center PTA Donations
Key Center PTA Volunteer Opportunities

Any questions regarding involvement, please contact PTA President, Cecilia Allen, at [email protected] or (301) 646-7447.

Upcoming Dates

September 25           Religious Observance (Yom Kippur) - Holiday
October 9                  Staff Development Day - Student Holiday
November 6              School Planning Day - Student Holiday
November 7              Teacher Work Day - Student Holiday
November 22-24       Thanksgiving Break - Holiday       

2023-24 FCPS School Calendar

6404 Franconia Road Springfield, VA 22150  | Main Office: 703-313-4000
Attendance: 703-313-4000 | Web | Facebook

Weekly Newsletter 9/6/2023

GovDelivery3 months ago

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 boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

Key Center Teacher Recognized as FCPS CARES of the Month Recipient


Congratulations to Ms. Sarah Bracken Payne on her recognition as the June 2023 FCPS CARES Region 3 Recipient of the Month, presented by the FCPS Department of Human Resources.  You can read more about Ms. Bracken Payne’s CARES recognition on our school website.

The FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. We invite you to submit your story below, so we can all acknowledge the good work of FCPS employees. 

Would you like to make sure that a Key Center staff person knows that their hard work is appreciated?  Visit the FCPS CARES website for more information.

Celebrating our Physical Therapists


World Physical Therapy Day is observed annually on September 8th.  This day is a global observance dedicated to acknowledging and celebrating the vital role of physical therapists in promoting health, well-being, and mobility. It's a day to recognize their expertise and commitment to helping individuals recover from injuries, manage conditions, and lead healthier lives through physical therapy.  Key Center would like to thank our wonderful physical therapists, Lou Ganssle and Laurell Mauro for all that they do to support our students and their programming.   #WorldPTDay

Sept 4-8 is National Substitute Appreciation Week


During Substitute Teacher Appreciation Week, we extend our heartfelt thanks to all our substitute teachers. Their dedication and flexibility ensure that our students continue to receive quality education when there are staffing challenges in our building. Their contribution to our school community is invaluable, and we appreciate their hard work and commitment to our students’ success. Thank you, substitute teachers, for making a difference in our classrooms every day!

Meet Ana Gonzalez

 

Key Center is pleased to introduce Ana Gonzalez, the newest member of our office team! 

Ana was born in Colombia, but spent most of her life as a resident of Alexandria, Virginia. She is a proud graduate of George Mason University.  After completing her degree, Ana relocated to Carlsbad, New Mexico, where she worked on a project for the US Department of Energy, focusing on the classification of nuclear waste. After two years, she felt the tug of homesickness and decided to return to Virginia to be closer to her family.

Upon returning to Virginia, she began employment with Fairfax County Public Schools.  Prior to coming to work with us at Key Center, Ana worked in the offices of Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology and Key Middle School. 

Outside of work, you'll often find Ana in the kitchen, experimenting with new recipes.  She also loves being outdoors, either camping with her family or exploring new destinations. She’s the proud parent to a 17-year-old son, and her family includes a beautiful, adopted four-legged companion, a white Turkish Shepherd.

Ana looks forward to getting to know the Key Center community and contributing her skills and enthusiasm.  She says “Let's embark on this journey together and make it a memorable one!”

Back to School Bash


Key Center will be hosting our annual Back to School Bash this Friday, September 8th.  This year’s theme is Country Vs. Rockers.  Is your student a little bit Country…or a little bit Rock and Roll?  We hope that they have some fun and show school spirit by wearing clothing/gear from their chosen music genre.

Coming Soon – PTA Sponsored Family Night Out!

 

Key Center will host a family event, with a light dinner and time to socialize with one another.  A short PTA meeting will be held to conduct PTA related business, join us for food and social time!

Tentative Date Wednesday Sept 20 or 27 at 5pm.

SEL Screener Parent Notification and Updates

 

FCPS is committed to supporting the mental wellness of all students. The Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener helps our students share their perspectives on how their schools and communities support them and help them develop the skills they need to succeed.

The screener is offered to all students in grades 3 through 12 in the fall and spring. It addresses skills like achieving goals, understanding and managing emotions, establishing and maintaining relationships with adults and peers, and making responsible decisions. Students also share how successful their school and community are at making them feel valued, included, and supported. Screener data is used to plan programming for the division, schools, and individual students. 

Key updates to the screener this year include:

  • Different versions for students in grades 3-5 and 6-12. 
  • Fewer topics with more questions to provide schools and families with more data to support planning. 
  • Additional questions (20 more than previous years) aligned with FCPS’ commitment to educational equity. 

Although IEP accommodations are allowed, students must be asked each question as written and respond to all 48 questions from a field of 2-5.  We are providing this information to allow you to make an informed decision on whether or not you would like your student to participate or if you want to opt them out. Families who wish to opt their child out may do so by completing the opt-out form in the Annual Notice packet or SIS ParentVue. 

For more information, please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage or contact Sarah Bracken Payne at [email protected]

Key Center PTA


Not yet a member of our PTA?  We would love to have you join! 

Key Center PTA Membership 
Key Center PTA Donations
Key Center PTA Volunteer Opportunities

Any questions regarding involvement, please contact PTA President, Cecilia Allen, at [email protected] or (301) 646-7447.

Upcoming Dates

 

September 25        Religious Observance (Yom Kippur) - Holiday
October 9               Staff Development Day - Student Holiday        

2023-24 FCPS School Calendar

6404 Franconia Road Springfield, VA 22150  | Main Office: 703-313-4000
Attendance: 703-313-4000 | Web | Facebook

Weekly Newsletter 8/30/2023

GovDelivery3 months 1 week ago

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

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IMPORTANT - Back to School Required Forms

Many families have returned their Back to School paperwork, THANK YOU! However, we have a large number of families who have yet to return all of the required paperwork.  Families with outstanding papers due have received a reminder yesterday.   All paperwork is due Thursday, August 31st. 

Please help us remain current with your child’s emergency and health plans.

Fairfax County Economic Mobility Pilot


The Fairfax County Economic Mobility Pilot (FCEMP) will provide monthly cash payments to eligible, randomly selected households along with optional financial coaching and supportive resources to promote economic stability and social capital.  Fairfax County has designed the  pilot to focus on households, referred to as the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) population, which may earn too much income to be eligible for some assistance programs.  

Funding for this program is provided by federal funds as part of the American Recovery Plan Act and supported also by the Fairfax County Human Services Council’s Innovation Fund.  The FCEMP includes three elements:

  • A monthly payment of $750 to 180 eligible families for 15 months
  • Freedom of choice for the families to use the cash as they deem necessary
  • Optional financial coaching and the opportunity to increase their social networks through virtual or in person events

Apply online between September 23 through October 3, 2023.

For more information visit https://bit.ly/FairfaxEconMobility or email at [email protected]

Fairfax County Health Department - Health Clinic Services


Services include:

Eye Care
Speech and Hearing
Immunizations 
HIV and STI Services
Tuberculosis Services
Vital Records
Maternal and Child Health and Nutrition 

All Services are by appointment only.

For appointments call: 703-246-7100.  Fees and eligibility vary.

Please visit the website below for more information on the services, fees and locations.

https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/health/clinics

Multilingual Phone Lines


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.

Spanish:
☎️ Línea Telefónica de Información para Padres Disponible en Ocho IdiomasPadres/cuidadores que hablan Amárico, Árabe, Chino, Farsi, Coreano, Español, Urdu o Vietnamita pueden llamar a una línea telefónica de información para obtener información general sobre FCPS.  Vea la lista de números de teléfono.

Korean:
☎️  학부모 정보 전화는 8가지 언어로 제공됩니다.

암하라어, 아랍어, 중국어, 페르시아어, 한국어, 스페인어, 우르두어, 베트남어를 할 줄 아는 보호자는 전화 안내 라인에 전화하여 FCPS에 대한 일반적인 정보를 얻을 수 있습니다. 또한 자녀의 학교와의 의사소통에 대한 지원도 받을 수 있습니다. 전화번호 목록 보기.

Safety Drills


Keeping students and staff safe is a priority for FCPS. Each school has an emergency preparedness plan to respond to incidents such as fires and tornadoes. Schools are required by state law to practice emergency drills, including lockdown drills, each year. Schools are also required to notify parents and guardians at least 24 hours before a school conducts a lockdown drill. However, schools are not required to give the specific date and time of the drill in advance. 

The first lockdown drill of the school year must take place within the first 20 days of school. Preschool and kindergarten students are exempt from practicing the first lockdown drill. 

Your child may come home and talk about their experience during the drill. We encourage you to talk with your child about the importance of being prepared for emergencies. Please review these frequently asked questions to support your students before and after school lockdown drills.

School Aged Child Care


SACC provides fun, safe and educational care for children in kindergarten-sixth grade before school, after school and during school vacations in most Fairfax County public elementary schools. Children with special needs are fully included in all SACC centers. In addition, SACC programs at Key and Kilmer Centers serve youth, ages 5-21, with multiple types of disabilities. SACC offers a sliding fee scale for income eligible families.

The SACC program serves children five days a week, Monday-Friday.

Before School - 7am until school begins.

After School - End of school day until 6:15 p.m. SACC service begins when the children are dismissed from school.

To learn more about the SACC program and view their calendar, please visit the SACC website.

Meet Natalie Schroeder


Key Center is pleased to welcome Natalie Schroeder to our teaching staff for the 2023-2024 school year!  Natalie is beginning the fourth year of her teaching career. She began teaching in 2020, in Anne Arundel County, Maryland.  In this role, she taught Kindergarten to Grade 2 students in a special education center. Natalie then taught at a special education preschool in San Diego, CA for the 2021-2022 school year. She spent last year teaching an Enhanced Autism class at Braddock Elementary, a Fairfax County Public School.  

Natalie’s mother, who is a teacher at a special education center in Anne Arundel County, Maryland introduced her to special education.  Natalie volunteered at her mother’s school throughout high school years and worked as a substitute teacher during college breaks.  Her love of teaching led her to follow in her mother’s footsteps, as a special education teacher. Natalie reports that she appreciates the overwhelming sense of community that she has found at Key Center School.  

Natalie is from Annapolis, MD, where her parents still live. She has two younger sisters. Her  middle sister recently graduated from Towson University, where she just started the Speech Pathology graduate program. Her youngest sister is a sophomore at Juniata College, studying to become a special educator. Natalie loves to be active in her free time, going on hikes or walks with friends and family.  She played collegiate lacrosse, and continues to play in lacrosse leagues in the area.  Welcome Natalie- we are so happy that you are here!

Meet Ana Gonzalez


Key Center is pleased to welcome Ana Gonzalez to our Front Office staff.  Ana brings a wealth of experience to our office team and she is ready to help you with any needs you may have.  We will share more about Ana in next week’s newsletter.  Feel free to stop and say ‘Hello’ to Ana if you are in the building!

Key Center Vocational Feature


The vocational task that is featured this week is a job that supports the clinic of Key Middle School.  On a weekly basis, Key Center students visit the Key Middle School Clinic to pick up tissues and/or band aids.  The supplies are brought back to Key Center, where students package the band aids and/or label the tissues.  When the supplies are labeled and packaged, students return the items to the clinic.  In this photo collage, a student can be seen working on various parts of this vocational task.

Calendar Reminder


Friday, September 1
, and Monday, September 4, are Labor Day holidays for all FCPS employees and students. Virginia legislation requires that schools opening prior to Labor Day must be closed the Friday immediately preceding Labor Day. We hope everyone takes the long weekend to celebrate a strong start to the school year and enjoy time with family and friends.

Key Center PTA


Not yet a member of our PTA?  We would love to have you join! 

Key Center PTA Membership 
Key Center PTA Donations
Key Center PTA Volunteer Opportunities

Any questions regarding involvement, please contact PTA President, Cecilia Allen, at [email protected] or (301) 646-7447.

Upcoming Dates


September 1 - 4     Labor Day Break - Holiday
September 25        Religious Observance (Yom Kippur) - Holiday
October 9               Staff Development Day - Student Holiday                                                                                

2023-24 FCPS School Calendar

6404 Franconia Road Springfield, VA 22150  | Main Office: 703-313-4000
Attendance: 703-313-4000 | Web | Facebook

Weekly Newsletter 8/23/2023

GovDelivery3 months 2 weeks ago

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 boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

Welcome Back to the 2023-2024 School Year!


Welcome back! We hope you had a fantastic and rejuvenating break. Our staff has been busy getting the school ready to welcome families back for an exciting new year.  We are energized and ready to embark on a new and exciting journey of learning and growth during the 2023-2024 school year.  As we begin this new year together, we're delighted to introduce the theme that will guide us through the upcoming months: Dream BIG!  

As we welcome you back to Key Center School, we encourage you to Dream BIG with us.  We will work hard and we will play hard too!  We look forward to a year of possibilities, growth, and unforgettable memories.  Let's make this year the best year yet.  Dream BIG, Rockets!

School Board Welcome Back to School Messages 

Please click on the photo of each Fairfax County School Board member to see their 2023 Back to School message.

Tamara Derenak Kaufax
Franconia District Representative

 

Karen Corbett SandersMt. - video not available
Vernon District Representative

Megan McLaughlin - video not available
Braddock District Representative

Ricardy Anderson
Mason District Representative

Bell Schedule

 

Key Center’s school hours have been adjusted very slightly.  Our current bell schedule is:  7:50AM to 1:50PM

Remember, attending school regularly and arriving at school on time ensure that your student gets the most out of their school experience.  Whenever a student is absent, remember to call us at 703-313-4000 or [email protected]

Let’s Stay in Touch!

 

Please stay in touch with us throughout the year by:

Key Center is Part of the New FCPS Region 6


FCPS recently expanded by adding a new region- Region 6.  Key Center students, along with all students in the Lewis High School, Hayfield High School and Annandale High School pyramids make up this new region.  We are excited to be a part of this new region and hope that it brings new opportunities for our students.  Learn more about the leadership of our new region on the FCPS website.

Required Form- Parental/Guardian Consent for Digital Resources


Teachers will use a variety of digital resources to help students learn during the 2023-24 school year. These digital resources have been checked and approved by Fairfax County Public Schools. Please provide your consent for your student to use these resources through the Parental Digital Consent System. 

To access this system, parents/guardians will need a SIS Parentvue username and password. We encourage you to complete the parental consent for digital resources form as soon as possible.  If you need support with filling out the parental consent web form, please access the following: How to fill out the Digital Consent Parent Form or contact Beth Curtis, our School Based Technology Specialist, at [email protected]

Medication


If you have not already completed your student’s FCPS Medication Authorization forms, they are due now. Please ensure to have your health care provider complete the updated FCPS Authorization for Anaphylaxis Action Plan (SS/SE-64) dated 05/23 for epinephrine or FCPS Authorization for Virginia Asthma Action Plan (SS/SE-65) dated 07/22 for asthma rescue medication. We no longer accept the old version of Inhaler Authorization form or Epinephrine Authorization form. 

Reminder: Medication must be brought in by a parent/caregiver.  Medication may not be sent to school in a student's backpack.

The First Day of our 2023-2024 School Year

Our staff and students were happy to be back at school together again.  Just look at those smiles!

Calendar Reminder


Friday, September 1, and Monday, September 4, are Labor Day holidays for all FCPS employees and students. Virginia legislation requires that schools opening prior to Labor Day must be closed the Friday immediately preceding Labor Day. We hope everyone takes the long weekend to celebrate a strong start to the school year and enjoy time with family and friends.

News from our Key Center PTA


Not yet a member of our PTA?  We would love to have you join!  Join online at Key Center PTA Membership.

Key Center PTA Donations

Key Center PTA Volunteer Opportunities


Any questions regarding involvement, please contact PTA President, Cecilia Allen, at [email protected] or (301) 646-7447.

Upcoming Dates

 

September 1 - 4     Labor Day Break - Holiday
September 25        Religious Observance (Yom Kippur) - Holiday
October 9               Staff Development Day - Student Holiday                                                                              

2023-24 FCPS School Calendar

6404 Franconia Road Springfield, VA 22150  | Main Office: 703-313-4000
Attendance: 703-313-4000 | Web | Facebook

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