FCPS

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Good Afternoon Westgate Families,

I hope many of you had a wonderful Mother's Day weekend.  We are officially in our last month of the school year, and things are busier than ever.

We want to thank our amazing PTA who organized an incredible teacher appreciation week.  Our staff felt loved, and supported, and we thank each and every one of our parents who donated their time & energy to make it a success.  We equally thank our students for their tokens of appreciations, cards, and words of affirmation to our teachers.  We certainly have such a generous and caring school community.    

We hope many of you can attend our first ever student led event, West Fest, this Friday, May 17, from 5:30 -7:30 p.m.  Our 5th and 6th grade students have been working all year to create an event that celebrates the diversity in our community and builds a sense of belonging.  At West Fest, you can taste some of our community's favorite dishes, watch performances of our talented students, play games, and participate in a variety of activities! We hope you will join us!

Please see below for the remaining events of the school year, including our last PTA meeting tomorrow evening, May 14, at 6:00 p.m.  As always, thank you for your continued support of all things Westgate and have a wonderful week ahead!

All my best,

Hallie Demetriades

Principal 

Kindergarten Registration 

Do you have, or know of a rising kindergartener scheduled to come to Westgate next year?  All students that turn five by September 30, 2024 are eligible to attend Kindergarten this fall.  Please spread the word that registration is underway as we are excited to meet our newest Wolves.  Please consider registering asap since our staffing reflects the number of registered students.  If you have already registered, please sign up for a summer assessment here.  Registration information for kindergarten and new students can be found on our website here.

Panera Bread Fundraiser

Pick up dinner at Panera break on May 13th from 4-8pm at the 8365 Leesburg Pike Vienna VA location and support Westgate. Do not forget to mention the fundraiser in the store or use code when ordering online: FUND4U

May PTA Meeting- May 14th

Join us Tuesday, May 14th for the PTA meeting at 6pm in the library. Ms. Demetriades will share highlights from the year and we will hold our elections for next year's PTA Board. 

For those who need to participate virtually, please use this Zoom link (Meeting ID: 920 5943 1149 and password: wolves)

Book Exchange

Clean off your bookshelves and donate to the Westgate Library Book Exchange! All students will visit the exchange during their final library week to choose a book for summer reading. We’d love to have gently used books for PreK to 6th grade students. Beginning chapter books and graphic novels are especially popular. If you have books to donate, please drop them off at the Westgate office.

Rising Kindergarten Playdates

Do you have a child who will be starting Kindergarten at Westgate in the Fall? Join us Sunday, May 19 from 4-5:30pm at the Westgate Elementary School Playground. Come out and meet other new students and their families for our upcoming playdates. PTA members will be on hand as well to answer any questions you may have. Please help spread the word.

Other Playdates include:

• Friday, June 14, from 4 p.m. until 5: 30 p.m. at the Westgate Elementary School Playground
• Sunday, July 21, from 5 p.m. until  6:30 p.m. at the Westgate Elementary School Playground

Westgate - We Need You! 

Do you love Fallfest and the yearly Volleyball game? Do your students enjoy after school programming or the PTA sponsored assemblies? Then we need you! 

In order to keep these amazing programs going and more we need an active PTA board. Westgate needs you to consider joining the PTA board as we are still in search of nominations for many positions including but not limited to President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary and more! 

Interested in learning more? Reach out to [email protected] or [email protected] and we can share more about different roles. 

Without your support or engagement we will not be able to have a PTA board which is integral for continuing all these activities. Board nominations due by May 10th.

West Fest - May 17

Please join Westgate Elementary School for our spring event, West Fest!

A group of Young Scholars and student leaders in 5th and 6th grade have been working all year on creating a community event that celebrates the diversity in our community and builds a sense of belonging. This event will take place on May 17th from 5:30 - 7:30. At West Fest, taste some of our community's favorite dishes, watch performances of our talented students, play games, and participate in a variety of activities! We hope you will join us! 

In order for this event to be a success, we need your help. Please consider signing up to: 

Volunteer 

Bring one of your family's favorite foods

Perform

Order School Supplies Online!- Due June 25

The PTA is once again offering online school supply ordering. These kits are exactly what teachers have requested for next year. It's one stop, easy shopping for our community. You order online and in the fall the supplies will be shipped to the school and the PTA will deliver them to your child's classroom. This is not a fundraiser, just a courtesy to our community. Deadline is June 25th. Order today!

Order Online: here

School Code: WES461

Rising Longfellow MS - Important Dates

Jump Start Registration Now Open!

Jump Start registration is now open on myschoolbucks. Choose between session 1 – August 5th – 6th or session 2 – August 7th – 8th.  

Hours are 8:30a.m. – 12:00p.m. Look forward to learning about Longfellow with school tours, ice breakers, scavenger hunts, team building and more. If you have any questions, contact Lavina Gangwani-Colaco at [email protected]

Register Today for FCPS Summer Camps

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

• Spanish:Inscríbase hoy para los Campamentos de Verano de FCPSLa inscripción para los campamentos de Educación Profesional y Técnica (CTE) de FCPS y los campamentos del Instituto para las Artes (IFTA/E-IFTA) cierra el viernes, 7 de junio. Los estudiantes elegibles para comidas gratis o a precio reducido no tienen que pagar matrícula. El transporte en autobús está disponible desde determinadas escuelas secundarias y escuelas intermedias de FCPS. Aprenda más sobre Aprendizaje y Diversión de Verano para Estudiantes. 

 

☀️ Enjoy Learning, Fun, and Helpful Information at the Extravaganza! 

Stop by Woodson High School on Saturday, June 1, 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., for the FCPS Summer Extravaganza! Families are invited to participate in engaging educational activities designed to spark curiosity and inspire growth. In addition to learning activities, enjoy tips and helpful information for families. Enjoy face painting, food, music, a moon bounce, a petting zoo, storytime, and student performances — at no cost!

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

Spanish:☀️ ¡Disfrute Aprendiendo, Diversión e Información Útil en el Evento de Un Verano Extraordinario! Venga a la Escuela Secundaria Woodson el sábado, 1 de junio, 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., ¡para el evento de FCPS "Un Verano Extraordinario! Las familias están invitadas a participar en actividades educacionales diseñadas para despertar curiosidad e inspirar crecimiento. Además de las actividades de aprendizaje, disfrute de consejos e información útil para las familias. Disfrute de la pintura de caras, comida, música, un brincolin , un zoológico de mascotas, hora del cuento, y actuaciones de los estudiantes - ¡Todas las actividades son gratuitas!

Visite la página web Summer Extravaganza para obtener más información e inscríbase para asistir. La inscripción no es obligatoria, pero es útil para la planificación.

Arrival/Dismissal Safety Reminders for Westgate

Please remember to be mindful of our important safety procedures during arrival and dismissal.  

• There are NO left hand turns allowed in, or out of, Kiss & Ride during arrival or dismissal.  
• There are NO illegal u-turns allowed in front of the school on Magarity Road.  Please enter kiss and ride from the correct side (towards rt. 7) and follow the traffic pattern, as we've witnessed both student and staff safety being compromised too often. 
• Please ONLY cross your child at the dedicated cross walk (with police officer).  Crossing you children at any other location is not safe.
• There is NO parking on either side of Magarity Rd. right in front of the school.  Please do not park in these areas.
• Cars are not permitted in the bus loop between 8:20 - 9:00 a.m. and between 3:00 - 3:40 p.m.  

Our number one priority at Westgate remains student safety.  Thank you for adhering to these very important safety reminders.  Please note that the Fairfax County Police Department will be closely monitoring this situation.

Join the PTA Today! 

Our PTA is amazing and we would love you to join and be part of this great community of Westgate families! Signing up is easy and you can help us reach our membership goal by signing up today! You can sign up here.

SIS ParentVue

Access your student’s attendance records, grades, and assignments at any time with SIS ParentVUE. Caregivers should receive an activation code when they register their child. 

Once you have activated a ParentVUE account for an FCPS student, you will keep the same account until the student graduates. Information about students in the same family can be accessed through the same ParentVUE account. Access SIS ParentVUE by using an app on your iPhone, iPad, or Android devices. 

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

Multilingual Parent Information Line

☎️ Parent Information Phone Line 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. También pueden obtener apoyo para comunicarse con la escuela de su hijo. Vea la lista de números de teléfono.

⏰ Share Your Thoughts on Middle School Start Times

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

Register by clicking on one of the following dates: 

• Monday, May 13, 6:30-8 p.m., virtual forum. 
• Monday, May 20, 6-8 p.m., at Hughes Middle School.
• Wednesday, May 22, 6-8 p.m., at Frost Middle School. 

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

Zones of Regulation 

This year we are excited to have implemented the program, Zones of Regulation at Westgate school wide.  This program teaches students how to name their emotions and build strategies to help manage them.  Emotions are categorized by blue, green, yellow, and red and each color represents a state of alertness.  The green zone is the calmest and a place where we are ready to learn.  You can find out more by clicking this here (English) or here (Spanish).

Free, On-Demand, Online Tutoring

Does your child need homework help or feedback on their writing? How about a practice quiz to get ready for a test?  FCPS students who’ve used Tutor.com have provided positive feedback:

• “This tutor was very helpful! She didn't tell me the answers. When needed, she helped me solve them! She was very kind and she really helped me!” –Elementary Math Student
• “This was an awesome tutor! She explained why I needed to do specific steps, and she gave me practice problems! Best tutor I have had!” –IB Chemistry Student

Unless they’ve been opted out, students can access Tutor.com through Schoology. Every session is personalized to meet students’ needs from remedial to advanced levels. Sessions focus on conceptual learning and critical thinking—not quick answers.

Learn more on FCPS’ Tutor.com webpage.

May

14 - PTA Meeting @ 6:00 p.m.

15 - Grades 3 - 6 Reading SOL

17 - Grade 5 Science SOL

     - West Fest @ 5:30 p.m.

22 - Grades 3 - 6 Math SOL

27 - No School for Students/Staff - Memorial Day

June

5 - Band/String Concert @ 6:00 p.m.

6 - Field Day  (K-2 9-12 p.m., Gr. 3-6 12:15 - 3:15 p.m.)

12 - Last Day of School - 2 hr. Early Release (1:30 pm)

     - 6th Grade Promotion Ceremony @ 9:30 a.m.

7500 Magarity Rd, Falls Church, VA 22043  | Main Office: 703.610.5700

Attendance: 703.610.5757 | Web | Twitter

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

Good Afternoon Westgate Families,

I hope this finds you having a wonderful weekend.

Tomorrow marks the first day of Teacher Appreciation Week!  We are so fortunate to have such an amazing staff at Westgate, and we look forward to showing them how much they mean to us this week.  Special shout out to our incredible PTA who has planned a very special schedule of events to show our teachers how grateful we are to have them supporting our awesome students.

As a reminder, we have our spring Chorus Concert this Wednesday, May 8, at 6:00 p.m.  We look forward to hearing our talented singers show off all they have learned this school year.  Thank you to Ms. Schubert and Ms. Jennelle for all of their leadership with our chorus students this school year.  

There are many upcoming events and opportunities to get involved, especially with our PTA.  Please see below for the exciting things we have planned, and ways to connect with our community as we finish out the school year.  As always, thank you for your continued support of all things Westgate and have a wonderful week ahead!

All my best,

Hallie Demetriades

Principal 

Teacher Appreciation Week - May 6-10

Many hands make light work. We need your help to show our Westgate. Teachers and Staff just how much we appreciate them! Signup links below!

• Monday, May 6th- Sign up here to bring a breakfast food item or give of your time during the breakfast. 
• Wednesday, May 8th - Sign up here to donate a snack food item for the Roving Snack Cart, or give of your time to deliver snacks.

May PTA Meeting- May 14th

Join us Tuesday, May 14th for the PTA meeting at 6pm in the library. Ms. Demetriades will share highlights from the year and we will hold our elections for next year's PTA Board. 

For those who need to participate virtually, please use this Zoom link (Meeting ID: 920 5943 1149 and password: wolves)

Panera Bread Fundraiser

Pick up dinner at Panera break on May 13th from 4-8pm at the 8365 Leesburg Pike Vienna VA location and support Westgate. Do not forget to mention the fundraiser in the store or use code when ordering online: FUND4U

Rising Kindergarten Playdates

Do you have a child who will be starting Kindergarten at Westgate in the Fall? Join us Sunday, May 19 from 4-5:30pm at the Westgate Elementary School Playground. Come out and meet other new students and their families for our upcoming playdates. PTA members will be on hand as well to answer any questions you may have. Please help spread the word.

Other Playdates include:

• Friday, June 14, from 4 p.m. until 5: 30 p.m. at the Westgate Elementary School Playground
• Sunday, July 21, from 5 p.m. until  6:30 p.m. at the Westgate Elementary School Playground

Westgate - We Need You! 

Do you love Fallfest and the yearly Volleyball game? Do your students enjoy after school programming or the PTA sponsored assemblies? Then we need you! 

In order to keep these amazing programs going and more we need an active PTA board. Westgate needs you to consider joining the PTA board as we are still in search of nominations for many positions including but not limited to President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary and more! 

Interested in learning more? Reach out to [email protected] or [email protected] and we can share more about different roles. 

Without your support or engagement we will not be able to have a PTA board which is integral for continuing all these activities. Board nominations due by May 10th.

West Fest - May 17

Please join Westgate Elementary School for our spring event, West Fest!

A group of Young Scholars and student leaders in 5th and 6th grade have been working all year on creating a community event that celebrates the diversity in our community and builds a sense of belonging. This event will take place on May 17th from 5:30 - 7:30. At West Fest, taste some of our community's favorite dishes, watch performances of our talented students, play games, and participate in a variety of activities! We hope you will join us! 

In order for this event to be a success, we need your help. Please consider signing up to: 

Volunteer 

Bring one of your family's favorite foods

Perform

Order School Supplies Online!- Due June 25

The PTA is once again offering online school supply ordering. These kits are exactly what teachers have requested for next year. It's one stop, easy shopping for our community. You order online and in the fall the supplies will be shipped to the school and the PTA will deliver them to your child's classroom. This is not a fundraiser, just a courtesy to our community. Deadline is June 25th. Order today!

Order Online: here

School Code: WES461

Rising Longfellow MS - Important Dates

Jump Start Registration Now Open!

Jump Start registration is now open on myschoolbucks. Choose between session 1 – August 5th – 6th or session 2 – August 7th – 8th.  

Hours are 8:30a.m. – 12:00p.m. Look forward to learning about Longfellow with school tours, ice breakers, scavenger hunts, team building and more. If you have any questions, contact Lavina Gangwani-Colaco at [email protected]

Kindergarten Registration 

Do you have, or know of a rising kindergartener scheduled to come to Westgate next year?  All students that turn five by September 30, 2024 are eligible to attend Kindergarten this fall.  Please spread the word that registration is underway as we are excited to meet our newest Wolves.  Please consider registering asap since our staffing reflects the number of registered students.  Registration information for kindergarten and new students can be found on our website here.

Arrival/Dismissal Safety Reminders for Westgate

Please remember to be mindful of our important safety procedures during arrival and dismissal.  

• There are NO left hand turns allowed in, or out of, Kiss & Ride during arrival or dismissal.  
• There are NO illegal u-turns allowed in front of the school on Magarity Road.  Please enter kiss and ride from the correct side (towards rt. 7) and follow the traffic pattern, as we've witnessed both student and staff safety being compromised too often. 
• Please ONLY cross your child at the dedicated cross walk (with police officer).  Crossing you children at any other location is not safe.
• There is NO parking on either side of Magarity Rd. right in front of the school.  Please do not park in these areas.
• Cars are not permitted in the bus loop between 8:20 - 9:00 a.m. and between 3:00 - 3:40 p.m.  

Our number one priority at Westgate remains student safety.  Thank you for adhering to these very important safety reminders.  Please note that the Fairfax County Police Department will be closely monitoring this situation.

Join the PTA Today! 

Our PTA is amazing and we would love you to join and be part of this great community of Westgate families! Signing up is easy and you can help us reach our membership goal by signing up today! You can sign up here.

SIS ParentVue

Access your student’s attendance records, grades, and assignments at any time with SIS ParentVUE. Caregivers should receive an activation code when they register their child. 

Once you have activated a ParentVUE account for an FCPS student, you will keep the same account until the student graduates. Information about students in the same family can be accessed through the same ParentVUE account. Access SIS ParentVUE by using an app on your iPhone, iPad, or Android devices. 

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

Multilingual Parent Information Line

☎️ Parent Information Phone Line 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. También pueden obtener apoyo para comunicarse con la escuela de su hijo. Vea la lista de números de teléfono.

Zones of Regulation 

This year we are excited to have implemented the program, Zones of Regulation at Westgate school wide.  This program teaches students how to name their emotions and build strategies to help manage them.  Emotions are categorized by blue, green, yellow, and red and each color represents a state of alertness.  The green zone is the calmest and a place where we are ready to learn.  You can find out more by clicking this here (English) or here (Spanish).

Free, On-Demand, Online Tutoring

Does your child need homework help or feedback on their writing? How about a practice quiz to get ready for a test?  FCPS students who’ve used Tutor.com have provided positive feedback:

• “This tutor was very helpful! She didn't tell me the answers. When needed, she helped me solve them! She was very kind and she really helped me!” –Elementary Math Student
• “This was an awesome tutor! She explained why I needed to do specific steps, and she gave me practice problems! Best tutor I have had!” –IB Chemistry Student

Unless they’ve been opted out, students can access Tutor.com through Schoology. Every session is personalized to meet students’ needs from remedial to advanced levels. Sessions focus on conceptual learning and critical thinking—not quick answers.

Learn more on FCPS’ Tutor.com webpage.

May

8 - Chorus Concert @ 6:00 p.m.

14 - PTA Meeting @ 6:00 p.m.

15 - Grades 3 - 6 Reading SOL

17 - Grade 5 Science SOL

     - WestFest @ 5:30 p.m.

22 - Grades 3 - 6 Math SOL

27 - No School for Students/Staff - Memorial Day

June

5 - Band/String Concert @ 6:00 p.m.

6 - Field Day

12 - Last Day of School - 2 hr. Early Release (1:30 pm)

     - 6th Grade Promotion Ceremony

7500 Magarity Rd, Falls Church, VA 22043  | Main Office: 703.610.5700

Attendance: 703.610.5757 | Web | Twitter

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

Good Afternoon Westgate Families,

I hope this finds you having a fantastic spring week! 

We have many upcoming events and celebrations as we finish out the school year, so please pay close attention to our school, and classroom newsletters, over the next few weeks so you don't miss out on anything.

Special thanks to our PTA and everyone who joined us at last week's Staff Volleyball game.  Not only did we win the match, but we had so much fun hearing and seeing our community cheer us on.  We are so fortunate to have such a supportive group of students who exude so much school spirit.  Go Wolves!

As a reminder, there will be no school next Friday, May 3, in observance of Orthodox Greek Friday.  Please ensure you have made alternate arrangements for your student on that day.

As always, thank you for your continued support of all things Westgate and have a wonderful weekend ahead!

All my best,

Hallie Demetriades

Principal 

Spring Book Fair -Thank You

Thanks to everyone who supported our book fairs this year through purchases, donations, and volunteer hours. With money earned through the book fairs, we have been able to get more books to Westgate readers and add new books to the library collection.  It is wonderful to see students excited about reading new books at home and in our school library. 

Michelle Scherbenske & Caroline McNabb

Rising Kindergarten Playdates

Do you have a child who will be starting Kindergarten at Westgate in the Fall? Join us Sunday, May 5 from 4:00-5:30pm at the Westgate Elementary School Playground. Come out and meet other new students and their families for our upcoming playdates. PTA members will be on hand as well to answer any questions you may have. Please help spread the word.

Other Playdates include:

• Friday, June 14, from 4 p.m. until 5: 30 p.m. at the Westgate Elementary School Playground

• Sunday, July 21, from 5 p.m. until  6:30 p.m. at the Westgate Elementary School Playground

Teacher Appreciation Week - May 6-10

Many hands make light work. We need your help to show our Westgate. Teachers and Staff just how much we appreciate them! Signup links below!

• Monday, May 6th- Sign up here to bring a breakfast food item or give of your time during the breakfast. 
• Wednesday, May 8th - Sign up here to donate a snack food item for the Roving Snack Cart, or give of your time to deliver snacks.

Panera Bread Fundraiser

Pick up dinner at Panera break on May 13th from 4-8pm at the 8365 Leesburg Pike Vienna VA location and support Westgate. Do not forget to mention the fundraiser in the store or use code when ordering online: FUND4U

Westgate - We Need You! 

To ensure the success of planned events we need parent and family volunteers. We want you to be involved with us and need your help to ensure items like Fallfest, BINGO, Teacher Appreciation, Spirit Wear and so much more can continue.

This year we were fortunate to have board members that represented students in all grades (except for 3rd) and we want parents' voices from all grade levels. Please consider investing your time and talent into your child's experience at Westgate Elementary. Thank you to everyone that contributed either on the board or through events and activities to help make this year a successful return to the school building! Special thanks to Jessi Papapietro for stepping in mid year to ensure the after school programs were an option for our children this spring.

Please look out for information that will be coming soon in Tuesdays folders and upcoming PTA communications with more details about the roles on the board as well as event chairs and committee coordinators. You can also reach out to any member on the board to learn more! Please share your time and talents. Email [email protected]

Order School Supplies Online!- Due June 25

The PTA is once again offering online school supply ordering. These kits are exactly what teachers have requested for next year. It's one stop, easy shopping for our community. You order online and in the fall the supplies will be shipped to the school and the PTA will deliver them to your child's classroom. This is not a fundraiser, just a courtesy to our community. Deadline is June 25th. Order today!

Order Online: here

School Code: WES461

West Fest

Please join Westgate Elementary School for our spring event, West Fest!

A group of Young Scholars and student leaders in 5th and 6th grade have been working all year on creating a community event that celebrates the diversity in our community and builds a sense of belonging. This event will take place on May 17th from 5:30 - 7:30. At West Fest, taste some of our community's favorite dishes, watch performances of our talented students, play games, and participate in a variety of activities! We hope you will join us! 

In order for this event to be a success, we need your help. Please consider signing up to: 

Volunteer 

Bring one of your family's favorite foods

Perform

Rising Longfellow MS - Important Dates

Spring Open House – April 30,, 2024

We cordially invite all our Rising 7th & New FCPS families to our Spring Open House on Tuesday, April 30th from 6:30-7:30pm. During this time, you will have an opportunity to tour LMS and ask any questions you may have to prepare for the 23-24 school year. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Jump Start Registration Now Open!

Jump Start registration is now open on myschoolbucks. Choose between session 1 – August 5th – 6th or session 2 – August 7th – 8th.  

Hours are 8:30a.m. – 12:00p.m. Look forward to learning about Longfellow with school tours, ice breakers, scavenger hunts, team building and more. If you have any questions, contact Lavina Gangwani-Colaco at [email protected]

WestFest - May 17

A group of Young Scholars and student leaders in 5th and 6th grade have been working all year on creating a community event that celebrates the diversity in our community and builds a sense of belonging. This event will take place on May 17th from 5:30 - 7:30. At WestFest, taste some of our community's favorite dishes, watch performances of our talented students, play games, and participate in a variety of activities! We hope you will join us! 

In order for this event to be a success, we need your help. Please consider signing up to: 

Volunteer 

Bring one of your family's favorite foods

Perform

Kindergarten Registration 

Do you have, or know of a rising kindergartener scheduled to come to Westgate next year?  All students that turn five by September 30, 2024 are eligible to attend Kindergarten this fall.  Please spread the word that registration is underway as we are excited to meet our newest Wolves.  Please consider registering asap since our staffing reflects the number of registered students.  Registration information for kindergarten and new students can be found on our website here.

Arrival/Dismissal Safety Reminders for Westgate

Please remember to be mindful of our important safety procedures during arrival and dismissal.  

• There are NO left hand turns allowed in, or out of, Kiss & Ride during arrival or dismissal.  
• There are NO illegal u-turns allowed in front of the school on Magarity Road.  Please enter kiss and ride from the correct side (towards rt. 7) and follow the traffic pattern, as we've witnessed both student and staff safety being compromised too often. 
• Please ONLY cross your child at the dedicated cross walk (with police officer).  Crossing you children at any other location is not safe.
• There is NO parking on either side of Magarity Rd. right in front of the school.  Please do not park in these areas.
• Cars are not permitted in the bus loop between 8:20 - 9:00 a.m. and between 3:00 - 3:40 p.m.  

Our number one priority at Westgate remains student safety.  Thank you for adhering to these very important safety reminders.  Please note that the Fairfax County Police Department will be closely monitoring this situation.

Join the PTA Today! 

Our PTA is amazing and we would love you to join and be part of this great community of Westgate families! Signing up is easy and you can help us reach our membership goal by signing up today! You can sign up here.

SIS ParentVue

Access your student’s attendance records, grades, and assignments at any time with SIS ParentVUE. Caregivers should receive an activation code when they register their child. 

Once you have activated a ParentVUE account for an FCPS student, you will keep the same account until the student graduates. Information about students in the same family can be accessed through the same ParentVUE account. Access SIS ParentVUE by using an app on your iPhone, iPad, or Android devices. 

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

Multilingual Parent Information Line

☎️ Parent Information Phone Line 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. También pueden obtener apoyo para comunicarse con la escuela de su hijo. Vea la lista de números de teléfono.

Zones of Regulation 

This year we are excited to have implemented the program, Zones of Regulation at Westgate school wide.  This program teaches students how to name their emotions and build strategies to help manage them.  Emotions are categorized by blue, green, yellow, and red and each color represents a state of alertness.  The green zone is the calmest and a place where we are ready to learn.  You can find out more by clicking this here (English) or here (Spanish).

Free, On-Demand, Online Tutoring

Does your child need homework help or feedback on their writing? How about a practice quiz to get ready for a test?  FCPS students who’ve used Tutor.com have provided positive feedback:

• “This tutor was very helpful! She didn't tell me the answers. When needed, she helped me solve them! She was very kind and she really helped me!” –Elementary Math Student
• “This was an awesome tutor! She explained why I needed to do specific steps, and she gave me practice problems! Best tutor I have had!” –IB Chemistry Student

Unless they’ve been opted out, students can access Tutor.com through Schoology. Every session is personalized to meet students’ needs from remedial to advanced levels. Sessions focus on conceptual learning and critical thinking—not quick answers.

Learn more on FCPS’ Tutor.com webpage.

May

3 - No School for Students - Teacher Workday 

8 - Chorus Concert @ 6:00 p.m.

14 - PTA Meeting @ 6:00 p.m.

15 - Grades 3 - 6 Reading SOL

17 - Grade 5 Science SOL

     - WestFest @ 5:30 p.m.

22 - Grades 3 - 6 Math SOL

27 - No School for Students/Staff - Memorial Day

June

5 - Band/String Concert @ 6:00 p.m.

6 - Field Day

12 - Last Day of School - 2 hr. Early Release (1:30 pm)

     - 6th Grade Promotion Ceremony

7500 Magarity Rd, Falls Church, VA 22043  | Main Office: 703.610.5700

Attendance: 703.610.5757 | Web | Twitter

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

Order a 2023-24 Yearbook - Deadline April 19 

Yearbooks for the 2023-2024 school year are currently on sale! If your child is interested in having this memory, you can purchase a book online for $16.00, with options to add-on other packages. You can use the link and school code below. The deadline for ordering a yearbook is Friday, April 19th.

Online Website: https://ybpay.lifetouch.com

Online Code: 14414124

7500 Magarity Rd, Falls Church, VA 22043  | Main Office: 703.610.5700

Attendance: 703.610.5757 | Web | Twitter

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

Good Afternoon Westgate Families,

I hope this finds you having a fantastic spring week! 

The wait is finally over!  Our annual staff volleyball game against Freedom Hill ES is THIS Friday, April 19 at Marshall HS.  Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the game starts at 7:00 p.m.   See below for details on how you can pre-order tickets, pizza, and spirit items for the game.  *Please note that pre-order sales end tomorrow, April 18 at 6:00 p.m.*  This event is always a great time and many of our teachers both play, and volunteer, at the game.  So, bring the entire family for a fun evening of volleyball and unbeatable school spirit!

Also, tonight (April 17) and tomorrow (April 18) are Ledo Pizza Fundraiser nights for Westgate. A percentage of all sales when you mention "Westgate" will come directly back to our PTA.  So, take a night off of cooking and order or dine in at Ledo Pizza instead!

As always, thank you for your continued support of all things Westgate and have a wonderful rest of your week!

All my best,

Hallie Demetriades

Principal 

Ledo's Pizza Fundraiser- April 17 and 18

Who doesn't love pizza night? Head to Ledo's pizza (7510 Leesburg Pike Falls Church, VA) on April 17th and/or 18th and make sure you mention WESTGATE! A percentage of the sale from both nights will go to the Westgate PTA. You may even catch other Westgate families!

Westgate Volleyball Game- April 19

Don't miss out on one of the best nights of the year where Westgate staff play Freedom Hill in a volleyball game. Game will happen at Marshall High School Gym. Doors open at 6:30 and game starts at 7pm. Head to our store here  to pre-order tickets, pizza and some amazing spirit items. Pre-order sales end at 6pm on Thursday, April 18th. Tickets will be available at the door and cash is encouraged! 

(Note, everyone 5 and over needs a ticket to attend the event).

Don't forget to wear Westgate colors (red and blue) and even bring signs to support our team. And a bonus is that any Westgate student who brings a sign or poster to the event will be entered into a drawing to be librarian for part of a day! Go Wolves!

Also if you are interested in volunteering to help at this event, you can sign up here.

Order a 23-24 Yearbook - Due April 19

Yearbooks for the 2023-2024 school year are currently on sale! If your child is interested in having this memory, you can purchase a book online for $16.00, with options to add-on other packages. You can use the link and school code below. The deadline for ordering a yearbook is Friday, April 19th.

Online Website: https://ybpay.lifetouch.com

Online Code: 14414124

Picture Day Volunteers - April 22

Westgate is looking for 1 to 2 volunteers for picture day on Monday April 22nd from 8:40-3pm. Interested in volunteering? Please contact the main office at 703-610-5700.  

Spring Picture Day - April 22

Students will be having spring pictures on Monday, April 22.  You can pre-order at mylifetouch.com and Westgate's Picture ID is EVTKNPMTM.  Hard copies of the order form were sent home in your child's Tuesday folder.  

Rising Longfellow MS - Important Dates

Spring Open House – April 30,, 2024

We cordially invite all our Rising 7th & New FCPS families to our Spring Open House on Tuesday, April 30th from 6:30-7:30pm. During this time, you will have an opportunity to tour LMS and ask any questions you may have to prepare for the 23-24 school year. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Jump Start Registration Now Open!

Jump Start registration is now open on myschoolbucks. Choose between session 1 – August 5th – 6th or session 2 – August 7th – 8th.  

Hours are 8:30a.m. – 12:00p.m. Look forward to learning about Longfellow with school tours, ice breakers, scavenger hunts, team building and more. If you have any questions, contact Lavina Gangwani-Colaco at [email protected]

WestFest - May 17

A group of Young Scholars and student leaders in 5th and 6th grade have been working all year on creating a community event that celebrates the diversity in our community and builds a sense of belonging. This event will take place on May 17th from 5:30 - 7:30. At WestFest, taste some of our community's favorite dishes, watch performances of our talented students, play games, and participate in a variety of activities! We hope you will join us! 

In order for this event to be a success, we need your help. Please consider signing up to: 

Volunteer 

Bring one of your family's favorite foods

Perform

Spring Buy One Get One Free Book Fair - April 15 - 19

The Spring Buy One Get One Free Book Fair is coming soon! For each book that you buy, you get another for the same price FREE! Students will visit the book fair to make wish lists and may make purchases during the week.

• Spring Book Fair April 15 - 19
• Family Shopping Night is Wednesday, April 17 from 3:30 - 7:00 Stop by to shop with your student! Remember to visit the teacher wish lists to build our classroom libraries.
• Book Fair Website Visit our site for information and to set up ewallet accounts.

eWallet

Give students a secure, cash-free way to shop by setting up an eWallet account. There is no charge to set up an eWallet. Parents simply create an account on the website and authorize a spending limit on their credit card. You can set up an eWallet for your student’s teacher as well!

Volunteer

Volunteers are needed to make this event a success! Parent volunteers help with everything from setting up the fair to working the cash register to helping shoppers find books. Use the Book Fair Sign Up to help out.

Offer Your Feedback: School Health Services Satisfaction Survey April 15 - 26, 2024

The Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD) and Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) School Health Services invites parents/guardians of FCPS students to participate in a survey requesting feedback on the level of satisfaction with School Health services provided to the school community.

FCHD employs school health aides and public health nurses who provide school health services to the students in FCPS. To determine the quality of these services, a survey has been developed by the FCHD to be shared with all parents or guardians who interact with the school health rooms. The survey will open on April 15, 2024 and will remain open until April 26, 2024. The survey should take approximately five minutes to complete.

Submit your survey.

Westgate - We Need You! 

To ensure the success of planned events we need parent and family volunteers. We want you to be involved with us and need your help to ensure items like Fallfest, BINGO, Teacher Appreciation, Spirit Wear and so much more can continue.

This year we were fortunate to have board members that represented students in all grades (except for 3rd) and we want parents' voices from all grade levels. Please consider investing your time and talent into your child's experience at Westgate Elementary. Thank you to everyone that contributed either on the board or through events and activities to help make this year a successful return to the school building! Special thanks to Jessi Papapietro for stepping in mid year to ensure the after school programs were an option for our children this spring.

Please look out for information that will be coming soon in Tuesdays folders and upcoming PTA communications with more details about the roles on the board as well as event chairs and committee coordinators. You can also reach out to any member on the board to learn more! Please share your time and talents. Email [email protected]

Kindergarten Registration 

Do you have, or know of a rising kindergartener scheduled to come to Westgate next year?  All students that turn five by September 30, 2024 are eligible to attend Kindergarten this fall.  Please spread the word that registration is underway as we are excited to meet our newest Wolves.  Please consider registering asap since our staffing reflects the number of registered students.  Registration information for kindergarten and new students can be found on our website here.

Arrival/Dismissal Safety Reminders for Westgate

Please remember to be mindful of our important safety procedures during arrival and dismissal.  

• There are NO left hand turns allowed in, or out of, Kiss & Ride during arrival or dismissal.  
• There are NO illegal u-turns allowed in front of the school on Magarity Road.  Please enter kiss and ride from the correct side (towards rt. 7) and follow the traffic pattern, as we've witnessed both student and staff safety being compromised too often. 
• Please ONLY cross your child at the dedicated cross walk (with police officer).  Crossing you children at any other location is not safe.
• There is NO parking on either side of Magarity Rd. right in front of the school.  Please do not park in these areas.
• Cars are not permitted in the bus loop between 8:20 - 9:00 a.m. and between 3:00 - 3:40 p.m.  

Our number one priority at Westgate remains student safety.  Thank you for adhering to these very important safety reminders.  Please note that the Fairfax County Police Department will be closely monitoring this situation.

Join the PTA Today! 

Our PTA is amazing and we would love you to join and be part of this great community of Westgate families! Signing up is easy and you can help us reach our membership goal by signing up today! You can sign up here.

SIS ParentVue

Access your student’s attendance records, grades, and assignments at any time with SIS ParentVUE. Caregivers should receive an activation code when they register their child. 

Once you have activated a ParentVUE account for an FCPS student, you will keep the same account until the student graduates. Information about students in the same family can be accessed through the same ParentVUE account. Access SIS ParentVUE by using an app on your iPhone, iPad, or Android devices. 

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

Multilingual Parent Information Line

☎️ Parent Information Phone Line 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. También pueden obtener apoyo para comunicarse con la escuela de su hijo. Vea la lista de números de teléfono.

Zones of Regulation 

This year we are excited to have implemented the program, Zones of Regulation at Westgate school wide.  This program teaches students how to name their emotions and build strategies to help manage them.  Emotions are categorized by blue, green, yellow, and red and each color represents a state of alertness.  The green zone is the calmest and a place where we are ready to learn.  You can find out more by clicking this here (English) or here (Spanish).

Free, On-Demand, Online Tutoring

Does your child need homework help or feedback on their writing? How about a practice quiz to get ready for a test?  FCPS students who’ve used Tutor.com have provided positive feedback:

• “This tutor was very helpful! She didn't tell me the answers. When needed, she helped me solve them! She was very kind and she really helped me!” –Elementary Math Student
• “This was an awesome tutor! She explained why I needed to do specific steps, and she gave me practice problems! Best tutor I have had!” –IB Chemistry Student

Unless they’ve been opted out, students can access Tutor.com through Schoology. Every session is personalized to meet students’ needs from remedial to advanced levels. Sessions focus on conceptual learning and critical thinking—not quick answers.

Learn more on FCPS’ Tutor.com webpage.

April

15 - 19 - BOGO Book Fair

17-18 - Ledos Pizza PTA Fundraiser

19 - Staff Volleyball Game @ Marshall HS - 7:00 p.m. **Doors open at 6:30 p.m.**

22 - Spring Picture Day

May

3 - No School for Students - Teacher Workday 

8 - Chorus Concert @ 6:00 p.m.

14 - PTA Meeting @ 6:00 p.m.

15 - Grades 3 - 6 Reading SOL

17 - Grade 5 Science SOL

     - WestFest @ 5:30 p.m.

22 - Grades 3 - 6 Math SOL

27 - No School for Students/Staff - Memorial Day

7500 Magarity Rd, Falls Church, VA 22043  | Main Office: 703.610.5700

Attendance: 703.610.5757 | Web | Twitter

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

Good Morning Westgate Families,

It's been another fantastic week here at Westgate! Our classrooms have been buzzing with enthusiastic learning and our students continue to grow as we finish out the last couple months of the school year.

As a reminder, our annual staff volleyball game against Freedom Hill ES is NEXT Friday, April 19 at Marshall HS.  Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the game starts at 7:00 p.m.  See below for details on how you can pre-order tickets, pizza, and spirit items for the game.  It is always a great time and many of our teachers both play, and volunteer, at the game.  So, bring the entire family for a fun evening of volleyball and unbeatable school spirit!

Lastly, we have started a new recognition program called "Pack Praises."  Your child may have come home over the last week or two and showed you a Pack Praise they earned for following the Westgate Way.  Students follow the Westgate Way by respecting themselves, respecting others, and respecting property.  Students can be recognized at any time throughout the school day, and in any classroom setting.  We share students names on the morning news show and so far it's been a huge success!  

As always, thank you for your continued support of all things Westgate and have a fantastic weekend ahead!

All my best,

Hallie Demetriades

Principal 

Westgate Volleyball Game- April 19

Don't miss out on one of the best nights of the year where Westgate staff play Freedom Hill in a volleyball game. Game will happen at Marshall High School Gym. Doors open at 6:30 and game starts at 7pm. Head to our store here  to pre-order tickets, pizza and some amazing spirit items. 

(Note, everyone 5 and over needs a ticket to attend the event).

Don't forget to wear Westgate colors (red and blue) and even bring signs to support our team. Go Wolves!  

Also if you are interested in volunteering to help at this event, you can sign up here.

Ledo's Pizza Fundraiser- April 17 and 18

Who doesn't love pizza night? Head to Ledo's pizza (7510 Leesburg Pike Falls Church, VA) on April 17th and/or 18th and make sure you mention WESTGATE! A percentage of the sale from both nights will go to the Westgate PTA. You may even catch other Westgate families!

Order a 23-24 Yearbook - Due April 19

Yearbooks for the 2023-2024 school year are currently on sale! If your child is interested in having this memory, you can purchase a book online for $16.00, with options to add-on other packages. You can use the link and school code below. The deadline for ordering a yearbook is Friday, April 19th.

Online Website: https://ybpay.lifetouch.com

Online Code: 14414124

Spring Picture Day - April 22

Students will be having spring pictures on Monday, April 22.  You can pre-order at mylifetouch.com and Westgate's Picture ID is EVTKNPMTM.  Hard copies of the order form were sent home in your child's Tuesday folder.  

Spring Buy One Get One Free Book Fair - April 15 - 19

The Spring Buy One Get One Free Book Fair is coming soon! For each book that you buy, you get another for the same price FREE! Students will visit the book fair to make wish lists and may make purchases during the week.

• Spring Book Fair April 15 - 19
• Family Shopping Night is Wednesday, April 17 from 3:30 - 7:00 Stop by to shop with your student! Remember to visit the teacher wish lists to build our classroom libraries.
• Book Fair Website Visit our site for information and to set up ewallet accounts.

eWallet

Give students a secure, cash-free way to shop by setting up an eWallet account. There is no charge to set up an eWallet. Parents simply create an account on the website and authorize a spending limit on their credit card. You can set up an eWallet for your student’s teacher as well!

Volunteer

Volunteers are needed to make this event a success! Parent volunteers help with everything from setting up the fair to working the cash register to helping shoppers find books. Use the Book Fair Sign Up to help out.

Westgate - We Need You! 

To ensure the success of planned events we need parent and family volunteers. We want you to be involved with us and need your help to ensure items like Fallfest, BINGO, Teacher Appreciation, Spirit Wear and so much more can continue.

This year we were fortunate to have board members that represented students in all grades (except for 3rd) and we want parents' voices from all grade levels. Please consider investing your time and talent into your child's experience at Westgate Elementary. Thank you to everyone that contributed either on the board or through events and activities to help make this year a successful return to the school building! Special thanks to Jessi Papapietro for stepping in mid year to ensure the after school programs were an option for our children this spring.

Please look out for information that will be coming soon in Tuesdays folders and upcoming PTA communications with more details about the roles on the board as well as event chairs and committee coordinators. You can also reach out to any member on the board to learn more! Please share your time and talents. Email [email protected]

Kindergarten Registration 

Do you have, or know of a rising kindergartener scheduled to come to Westgate next year?  All students that turn five by September 30, 2024 are eligible to attend Kindergarten this fall.  Please spread the word that registration is underway as we are excited to meet our newest Wolves.  Please consider registering asap since our staffing reflects the number of registered students.  Registration information for kindergarten and new students can be found on our website here.

SOL Dates - 3rd - 6th Grade Students

Please note that students in 3rd - 6th Grade take end of year SOL tests.  We ask that you avoid scheduling out of school appointments and vacations during the testing window.  The following are our tentative SOL dates.  If you you have any questions or concerns please reach out to your child's classroom teacher or our School Testing Coordinator, Ally Gilmore.  Thank you for ensuring a smooth testing window for your child.

SOL Testing Dates:

• Wednesday, May 15 – Grades 3-6 Reading
• Friday, May 17 – Grade 5 Science
• Wednesday, May 22 – Grades 3-6 Math

Arrival/Dismissal Safety Reminders for Westgate

Please remember to be mindful of our important safety procedures during arrival and dismissal.  

• There are NO left hand turns allowed in, or out of, Kiss & Ride during arrival or dismissal.  
• There are NO illegal u-turns allowed in front of the school on Magarity Road.  Please enter kiss and ride from the correct side (towards rt. 7) and follow the traffic pattern, as we've witnessed both student and staff safety being compromised too often. 
• Please ONLY cross your child at the dedicated cross walk (with police officer).  Crossing you children at any other location is not safe.
• There is NO parking on either side of Magarity Rd. right in front of the school.  Please do not park in these areas.
• Cars are not permitted in the bus loop between 8:20 - 9:00 a.m. and between 3:00 - 3:40 p.m.  

Our number one priority at Westgate remains student safety.  Thank you for adhering to these very important safety reminders.  Please note that the Fairfax County Police Department will be closely monitoring this situation.

Join the PTA Today! 

Our PTA is amazing and we would love you to join and be part of this great community of Westgate families! Signing up is easy and you can help us reach our membership goal by signing up today! You can sign up here.

SIS ParentVue

Access your student’s attendance records, grades, and assignments at any time with SIS ParentVUE. Caregivers should receive an activation code when they register their child. 

Once you have activated a ParentVUE account for an FCPS student, you will keep the same account until the student graduates. Information about students in the same family can be accessed through the same ParentVUE account. Access SIS ParentVUE by using an app on your iPhone, iPad, or Android devices. 

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

Multilingual Parent Information Line

☎️ Parent Information Phone Line 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. También pueden obtener apoyo para comunicarse con la escuela de su hijo. Vea la lista de números de teléfono.

Zones of Regulation 

This year we are excited to have implemented the program, Zones of Regulation at Westgate school wide.  This program teaches students how to name their emotions and build strategies to help manage them.  Emotions are categorized by blue, green, yellow, and red and each color represents a state of alertness.  The green zone is the calmest and a place where we are ready to learn.  You can find out more by clicking this here (English) or here (Spanish).

Free, On-Demand, Online Tutoring

Does your child need homework help or feedback on their writing? How about a practice quiz to get ready for a test?  FCPS students who’ve used Tutor.com have provided positive feedback:

• “This tutor was very helpful! She didn't tell me the answers. When needed, she helped me solve them! She was very kind and she really helped me!” –Elementary Math Student
• “This was an awesome tutor! She explained why I needed to do specific steps, and she gave me practice problems! Best tutor I have had!” –IB Chemistry Student

Unless they’ve been opted out, students can access Tutor.com through Schoology. Every session is personalized to meet students’ needs from remedial to advanced levels. Sessions focus on conceptual learning and critical thinking—not quick answers.

Learn more on FCPS’ Tutor.com webpage.

April

15 - 19 - BOGO Book Fair

17-18 - Ledos Pizza PTA Fundraiser

19 - Staff Volleyball Game @ Marshall HS - 7:00 p.m. **Doors open at 6:30 p.m.**

22 - Spring Picture Day

May

3 - No School for Students - Teacher Workday 

8 - Chorus Concert @ 6:00 p.m.

14 - PTA Meeting @ 6:00 p.m.

15 - Grades 3 - 6 Reading SOL

17 - Grade 5 Science SOL

     - Community Engagement Event @ 5:30 p.m.

22 - Grades 3 - 6 Math SOL

27 - No School for Students/Staff - Memorial Day

7500 Magarity Rd, Falls Church, VA 22043  | Main Office: 703.610.5700

Attendance: 703.610.5757 | Web | Twitter

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

Good Afternoon Westgate Families,

I hope this finds you having had a wonderful week!  It is hard to believe that we have officially entered into the last quarter of the school year.  We are excited to finish the year off strong with many exciting events and learning to look forward to in the coming months.  

As a reminder, there is no school on Wednesday, April 10 for Eid al Fitr.  Please ensure that you make alternate arrangements for your student on that day.

Lastly, you may have noticed our new electronic marquee out front.  We would like to thank our PTA for their support and generosity of our updated sign and look forward to having a timely and visible way to share important information with our families.  

As always, thank you for your continued support of all things Westgate and have a fantastic weekend!

All my best,

Hallie Demetriades

Principal 

Solar Eclipse - April 8

A solar eclipse is happening on April 8. It's a rare and exciting astronomical phenomenon and one that requires important safety reminders. Looking directly at the sun, even during an eclipse, can permanently damage your eyes.  The solar eclipse is supposed to occur during afternoon and dismissal hours.

Here's what you need to know & what to share with your child:

• Don't look at the sun without approved eyewear. This applies to students and staff, and we encourage you to reinforce this at home.
• Regular sunglasses are not good enough. The NASA website has more information about eye safety.  
• Eclipse timing: The eclipse starts around 2:04 p.m., peaks at 3:20 p.m. (which coincides with dismissal), and ends around 4:32 p.m. Please remind your child to be especially vigilant about eye safety during dismissal. If you have concerns about your child walking or riding the bus home, please arrange for alternative transportation.
• PM recess will be indoors.

For more details, visit the FCPS Solar Eclipse webpage.

Kindergarten Registration 

Do you have, or know of a rising kindergartener scheduled to come to Westgate next year?  All students that turn five by September 30, 2024 are eligible to attend Kindergarten this fall.  Please spread the word that registration is underway as we are excited to meet our newest Wolves.  Please consider registering asap since our staffing reflects the number of registered students.  Registration information for kindergarten and new students can be found on our website here.

Order a 23-24 Yearbook!

Yearbooks for the 2023-2024 school year are currently on sale! If your child is interested in having this memory, you can purchase a book online for $16.00, with options to add-on other packages. You can use the link and school code below. The deadline for ordering a yearbook is Friday, April 19th.

Online Website: https://ybpay.lifetouch.com

Online Code: 14414124

Spring Buy One Get One Free Book Fair - April 15 - 19

The Spring Buy One Get One Free Book Fair is coming soon! For each book that you buy, you get another for the same price FREE! Students will visit the book fair to make wish lists and may make purchases during the week.

• Spring Book Fair April 15 - 19
• Family Shopping Night is Wednesday, April 17 from 3:30 - 7:00 Stop by to shop with your student! Remember to visit the teacher wish lists to build our classroom libraries.
• Book Fair Website Visit our site for information and to set up ewallet accounts.

eWallet

Give students a secure, cash-free way to shop by setting up an eWallet account. There is no charge to set up an eWallet. Parents simply create an account on the website and authorize a spending limit on their credit card. You can set up an eWallet for your student’s teacher as well!

Volunteer

Volunteers are needed to make this event a success! Parent volunteers help with everything from setting up the fair to working the cash register to helping shoppers find books. Use the Book Fair Sign Up to help out.

Westgate Volleyball Game- April 19

Don't miss out on one of the best nights of the year where Westgate staff play Freedom Hill in a volleyball game. Game will happen at Marshall High School Gym. Doors open at 6:30 and game starts at 7pm. Head to our store here  to pre-order tickets, pizza and some amazing spirit items. 

(Note, everyone 5 and over needs a ticket to attend the event).

Don't forget to wear Westgate colors (red and blue) and even bring signs to support our team. Go Wolves!  

Also if you are interested in volunteering to help at this event, you can sign up here.

Ledo's Pizza Fundraiser- April 17 and 18

Who doesn't love pizza night? Head to Ledo's pizza (7510 Leesburg Pike Falls Church, VA) on April 17th and/or 18th and make sure you mention WESTGATE! A percentage of the sale from both nights will go to the Westgate PTA. You may even catch other Westgate families!

Westgate Parents - We Need You! 

To ensure the success of planned events we need parent and family volunteers. We want you to be involved with us and need your help to ensure items like Fallfest, BINGO, Teacher Appreciation, Spirit Wear and so much more can continue.

 This year we were fortunate to have board members that represented students in all grades (except for 3rd) and we want parents' voices from all grade levels. Please consider investing your time and talent into your child's experience at Westgate Elementary. Thank you to everyone that contributed either on the board or through events and activities to help make this year a successful return to the school building! Special thanks to Jessi Papapietro for stepping in mid year to ensure the after school programs were an option for our children this spring.

 Please look out for information that will be coming soon in Tuesdays folders and upcoming PTA communications with more details about the roles on the board as well as event chairs and committee coordinators. You can also reach out to any member on the board to learn more! Please share your time and talents. Email [email protected]

SOL Dates - 3rd - 6th Grade Students

Please note that students in 3rd - 6th Grade take end of year SOL tests.  We ask that you avoid scheduling out of school appointments and vacations during the testing window.  The following are our tentative SOL dates.  If you you have any questions or concerns please reach out to your child's classroom teacher or our School Testing Coordinator, Ally Gilmore.  Thank you for ensuring a smooth testing window for your child.

SOL Testing Dates:

• Wednesday, May 15 – Grades 3-6 Reading
• Friday, May 17 – Grade 5 Science
• Wednesday, May 22 – Grades 3-6 Math

Arrival/Dismissal Safety Reminders for Westgate

Please remember to be mindful of our important safety procedures during arrival and dismissal.  

• There are NO left hand turns allowed in, or out of, Kiss & Ride during arrival or dismissal.  
• There are NO illegal u-turns allowed in front of the school on Magarity Road.  Please enter kiss and ride from the correct side (towards rt. 7) and follow the traffic pattern, as we've witnessed both student and staff safety being compromised too often. 
• Please ONLY cross your child at the dedicated cross walk (with police officer).  Crossing you children at any other location is not safe.
• There is NO parking on either side of Magarity Rd. right in front of the school.  Please do not park in these areas.
• Cars are not permitted in the bus loop between 8:20 - 9:00 a.m. and between 3:00 - 3:40 p.m.  

Our number one priority at Westgate remains student safety.  Thank you for adhering to these very important safety reminders.  Please note that the Fairfax County Police Department will be closely monitoring this situation.

Join the PTA Today! 

Our PTA is amazing and we would love you to join and be part of this great community of Westgate families! Signing up is easy and you can help us reach our membership goal by signing up today! You can sign up here.

SIS ParentVue

Access your student’s attendance records, grades, and assignments at any time with SIS ParentVUE. Caregivers should receive an activation code when they register their child. 

Once you have activated a ParentVUE account for an FCPS student, you will keep the same account until the student graduates. Information about students in the same family can be accessed through the same ParentVUE account. Access SIS ParentVUE by using an app on your iPhone, iPad, or Android devices. 

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

Multilingual Parent Information Line

☎️ Parent Information Phone Line 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. También pueden obtener apoyo para comunicarse con la escuela de su hijo. Vea la lista de números de teléfono.

Zones of Regulation 

This year we are excited to have implemented the program, Zones of Regulation at Westgate school wide.  This program teaches students how to name their emotions and build strategies to help manage them.  Emotions are categorized by blue, green, yellow, and red and each color represents a state of alertness.  The green zone is the calmest and a place where we are ready to learn.  You can find out more by clicking this here (English) or here (Spanish).

Free, On-Demand, Online Tutoring

Does your child need homework help or feedback on their writing? How about a practice quiz to get ready for a test?  FCPS students who’ve used Tutor.com have provided positive feedback:

• “This tutor was very helpful! She didn't tell me the answers. When needed, she helped me solve them! She was very kind and she really helped me!” –Elementary Math Student
• “This was an awesome tutor! She explained why I needed to do specific steps, and she gave me practice problems! Best tutor I have had!” –IB Chemistry Student

Unless they’ve been opted out, students can access Tutor.com through Schoology. Every session is personalized to meet students’ needs from remedial to advanced levels. Sessions focus on conceptual learning and critical thinking—not quick answers.

Learn more on FCPS’ Tutor.com webpage.

April

10 - No School for Students/Staff - Eid al Fitr

17-18 - Ledos Pizza PTA Fundraiser

19 - Staff Volleyball Game @ Marshall HS - 7:00 p.m.

May

3 - No School for Students - Teacher Workday 

8 - Chorus Concert @ 6:00 p.m.

14 - PTA Meeting @ 6:00 p.m.

15 - Grades 3 - 6 Reading SOL

17 - Grade 5 Science SOL

     - Community Engagement Event @ 5:30 p.m.

22 - Grades 3 - 6 Math SOL

27 - No School for Students/Staff - Memorial Day

7500 Magarity Rd, Falls Church, VA 22043  | Main Office: 703.610.5700

Attendance: 703.610.5757 | Web | Twitter

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

Good Morning Westgate Families,

I hope this finds you having a wonderful week!  

It is hard to believe that tomorrow is the last day of the third quarter.  It is amazing how quickly this year has gone by for our community.  We look forward to ending our school year strong with many exciting events, and opportunities, for our students over the next couple of months. 

As a reminder, there is no school March 25-29, and April 1 & 2.  We hope that you are able to take some time over the break to spend it with family and friends.  We look forward to having our Wolves back at Westgate on April 3.  

As always, thank you for your continued support of all things Westgate and have a happy and healthy spring break ahead!

All my best,

Hallie Demetriades

Principal 

Kindergarten Registration & Orientation

Do you have, or know of a rising kindergartener scheduled to come to Westgate next year?  All students that turn five by September 30, 2024 are eligible to attend Kindergarten this fall.  Please spread the word that registration is underway as we are excited to meet our newest Wolves.  Please consider registering asap since our staffing reflects the number of registered students.  Registration information for kindergarten and new students can be found on our website here. 

Also, we will hold our annual Kindergarten Orientation for parents and students on Tuesday, April 2 at 9:00 a.m.  This will provide an overview of our kindergarten program and gives an opportunity for both parents and students to meet teachers, families, and other staff.  We hope to see many of our new wolves and their families at Westgate that day! You may also contact our main office at 703-610-5700 or [email protected] if you have additional questions.

Westgate Volleyball Game- April 19

Don't miss out on one of the best nights of the year where Westgate staff play Freedom Hill in a volleyball game. Game will happen at Marshall High School Gym. Doors open at 6:30 and game starts at 7pm. Head to our store here  to pre-order tickets, pizza and some amazing spirit items. 

(Note, everyone 5 and over needs a ticket to attend the event).

Don't forget to wear Westgate colors (red and blue) and even bring signs to support our team. Go Wolves!  

Also if you are interested in volunteering to help at this event, you can sign up here.

Ledo's Pizza Fundraiser- April 17 and 18

Who doesn't love pizza night? Head to Ledo's pizza (7510 Leesburg Pike Falls Church, VA) on April 17th and/or 18th and make sure you mention WESTGATE! A percentage of the sale from both nights will go to the Westgate PTA. You may even catch other Westgate families!

Westgate Parents - We Need You! 

To ensure the success of planned events we need parent and family volunteers. We want you to be involved with us and need your help to ensure items like Fallfest, BINGO, Teacher Appreciation, Spirit Wear and so much more can continue.

 This year we were fortunate to have board members that represented students in all grades (except for 3rd) and we want parents' voices from all grade levels. Please consider investing your time and talent into your child's experience at Westgate Elementary. Thank you to everyone that contributed either on the board or through events and activities to help make this year a successful return to the school building! Special thanks to Jessi Papapietro for stepping in mid year to ensure the after school programs were an option for our children this spring.

 Please look out for information that will be coming soon in Tuesdays folders and upcoming PTA communications with more details about the roles on the board as well as event chairs and committee coordinators. You can also reach out to any member on the board to learn more! Please share your time and talents. Email [email protected]

FCPS Family Engagement Survey 

FCPS’ Family Engagement Survey will is open.  Parents/caregivers will received the survey link via email from independent research firm K12 Insight. Please participate — your feedback is critical in helping to inform and improve practices to best support our students.

Taking this survey will also help strengthen the partnership between your family and your school. When that partnership is strong, students can experience a range of benefits including improved school readiness, higher student achievement, better social skills and behavior, and an increased likelihood of graduating high school.

The survey will take about 10-15 minutes to complete and will be available in 10 languages. Please visit the Family Engagement Survey webpage for more information. Your voice matters!

SOL Dates - 3rd - 6th Grade Students

Please note that students in 3rd - 6th Grade take end of year SOL tests.  We ask that you avoid scheduling out of school appointments and vacations during the testing window.  The following are our tentative SOL dates.  If you you have any questions or concerns please reach out to your child's classroom teacher or our School Testing Coordinator, Ally Gilmore.  Thank you for ensuring a smooth testing window for your child.

SOL Testing Dates:

• Wednesday, May 15 – Grades 3-6 Reading
• Friday, May 17 – Grade 5 Science
• Wednesday, May 22 – Grades 3-6 Math

TJ Techstravaganza - May 18

We represent the leadership of Tomorrow’s Women in Science and Technology (TWIST), a student organization at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST). Each year, we promote STEM through our annual flagship outreach event, Techstravaganza, and we would like to invite your school’s students to attend! Techstravaganza is a free, public, hands-on STEM activity fair for elementary and middle school students in Northern Virginia. In previous years, we've hosted more than 4,500 students and 70 labs presenting STEM activities. Our exhibitors range from TJHSST clubs and our own TWIST volunteers to organizations like NASA SCaN, Art of Problem Solving, George Mason University, American Society of Naval Engineers, and the National Air and Space Museum. This year, we will be holding the 20th annual Techstravaganza on Saturday, May 18, 2024 from 10 AM to 4 PM at TJHSST. Admission is free, food will be for sale, and we hope that you can spread the word in your school. Here is our registration link: https://tinyurl.com/techstrav24, and attached are flyers (in English and Spanish) that can be used to advertise this event. We would appreciate you sharing this with families in a newsletter or your school's social media. Please let us know if translating the flyer into other languages will help. More information about the event can be found on our website at tjtechstrav.org. Thank you so much, and please let us know if you have any questions! Sincerely, TWIST Coordinators Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology 6560 Braddock Road, Alexandria, VA

Arrival/Dismissal Safety Reminders for Westgate

Please remember to be mindful of our important safety procedures during arrival and dismissal.  

• There are NO left hand turns allowed in, or out of, Kiss & Ride during arrival or dismissal.  
• There are NO illegal u-turns allowed in front of the school on Magarity Road.  Please enter kiss and ride from the correct side (towards rt. 7) and follow the traffic pattern, as we've witnessed both student and staff safety being compromised too often. 
• Please ONLY cross your child at the dedicated cross walk (with police officer).  Crossing you children at any other location is not safe.
• There is NO parking on either side of Magarity Rd. right in front of the school.  Please do not park in these areas.
• Cars are not permitted in the bus loop between 8:20 - 9:00 a.m. and between 3:00 - 3:40 p.m.  

Our number one priority at Westgate remains student safety.  Thank you for adhering to these very important safety reminders.  Please note that the Fairfax County Police Department will be closely monitoring this situation.

Join the PTA Today! 

Our PTA is amazing and we would love you to join and be part of this great community of Westgate families! Signing up is easy and you can help us reach our membership goal by signing up today! You can sign up here.

SIS ParentVue

Access your student’s attendance records, grades, and assignments at any time with SIS ParentVUE. Caregivers should receive an activation code when they register their child. 

Once you have activated a ParentVUE account for an FCPS student, you will keep the same account until the student graduates. Information about students in the same family can be accessed through the same ParentVUE account. Access SIS ParentVUE by using an app on your iPhone, iPad, or Android devices. 

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

Multilingual Parent Information Line

☎️ Parent Information Phone Line 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. También pueden obtener apoyo para comunicarse con la escuela de su hijo. Vea la lista de números de teléfono.

Zones of Regulation 

This year we are excited to have implemented the program, Zones of Regulation at Westgate school wide.  This program teaches students how to name their emotions and build strategies to help manage them.  Emotions are categorized by blue, green, yellow, and red and each color represents a state of alertness.  The green zone is the calmest and a place where we are ready to learn.  You can find out more by clicking this here (English) or here (Spanish).

Free, On-Demand, Online Tutoring

Does your child need homework help or feedback on their writing? How about a practice quiz to get ready for a test?  FCPS students who’ve used Tutor.com have provided positive feedback:

• “This tutor was very helpful! She didn't tell me the answers. When needed, she helped me solve them! She was very kind and she really helped me!” –Elementary Math Student
• “This was an awesome tutor! She explained why I needed to do specific steps, and she gave me practice problems! Best tutor I have had!” –IB Chemistry Student

Unless they’ve been opted out, students can access Tutor.com through Schoology. Every session is personalized to meet students’ needs from remedial to advanced levels. Sessions focus on conceptual learning and critical thinking—not quick answers.

Learn more on FCPS’ Tutor.com webpage.

March

25 - 29 - No School for Students/Staff - Spring Break

April

1 - No School for Students - Teacher Workday

2 - No School for Students - Teacher PD Day

2 - Kindergarten Orientation @ 9:00 a.m. 

10 - No School for Students/Staff - Eid al Fitr

19 - PTA Staff Volleyball Game @ Marshall HS

May

3 - No School for Students - Teacher Workday 

8 - Chorus Concert @ 6:00 p.m.

14 - PTA Meeting @ 6:00 p.m.

15 - Grades 3 - 6 Reading SOL

17 - Grade 5 Science SOL

     - Community Engagement Event @ 5:30 p.m.

22 - Grades 3 - 6 Math SOL

27 - No School for Students/Staff - Memorial Day

7500 Magarity Rd, Falls Church, VA 22043  | Main Office: 703.610.5700

Attendance: 703.610.5757 | Web | Twitter

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

Bus 1 - 15 Minutes late

Please note that Bus 1 just arrived at Westgate (3:55 p.m.) so will be arriving at stops later than usual.  Thank you for your patience and understanding!

7500 Magarity Rd, Falls Church, VA 22043  | Main Office: 703.610.5700

Attendance: 703.610.5757 | Web | Twitter

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

Good Afternoon Westgate Families,

I hope this finds you having a fantastic week!

Please join us tonight, March 12, for our general PTA meeting. We will be sharing what assessments students participate in at Westgate.  There is a zoom option available for those of you that can't make it in-person.  

Also, the wait is over!  Our PTA Bingo is THIS Friday, March 15.  Pre-order pizza and bingo cards by March 13.  Feel free to bring the whole family to join in on the fun!  Please see below on how you can pre-order food and cards!

As always, thank you for your continued support of all things Westgate and have a wonderful rest of the week and weekend ahead!

All my best,

Hallie Demetriades

Principal 

Kindergarten Registration

Do you have, or know of a rising kindergartener scheduled to come to Westgate next year?  All students that turn five by September 30, 2024 are eligible to attend Kindergarten this fall.  Please spread the word that registration is underway as we are excited to meet our newest Wolves.  Please consider registering asap since our staffing reflects the number of registered students.  Registration information for kindergarten and new students can be found on our website here.  You may also contact our main office at 703-610-5700 or [email protected] if you have additional questions.

Westgate Parents - We Need You! 

To ensure the success of planned events we need parent and family volunteers. We want you to be involved with us and need your help to ensure items like Fallfest, BINGO, Teacher Appreciation, Spirit Wear and so much more can continue.

 This year we were fortunate to have board members that represented students in all grades (except for 3rd) and we want parents' voices from all grade levels. Please consider investing your time and talent into your child's experience at Westgate Elementary. Thank you to everyone that contributed either on the board or through events and activities to help make this year a successful return to the school building! Special thanks to Jessi Papapietro for stepping in mid year to ensure the after school programs were an option for our children this spring.

 Please look out for information that will be coming soon in Tuesdays folders and upcoming PTA communications with more details about the roles on the board as well as event chairs and committee coordinators. You can also reach out to any member on the board to learn more! Please share your time and talents. Email [email protected]

General PTA Meeting - March 12 @ 6:00 p.m.

Join us on Tuesday, March 12 at 6 p.m. in the library. In addition to our General PTA Agenda, Ally Gilmore, School Technology Specialist and School Testing Coordinator, will join us to talk about the assessment process and answer questions.

What are assessments? Assessments are part of the teaching and learning process in Fairfax County Public Schools and at Westgate. Our teachers give assessments to students on an ongoing basis to check for understanding and gather information about students' strengths and areas of growth.The state and school division also expect students to participate in certain tests to help with monitoring school and student performance and to provide information about additional services that may benefit the student. Please plan to attend this session with any testing questions or for additional information about how our school and teachers use test results to support student success.

For those who need to participate virtually, please use this Zoom link (Meeting ID: 920 5943 1149 and password: wolves)

PTA BINGO - March 15 @ 6:00 p.m.

If you're a BINGO veteran or have never played before, join us for a night of fun on Friday, March 15. We will play 5 regular rounds and 1 blackout round. The winners of each game gets to select a prize from the table.  Order your pizza and bingo cards now!  Pre-Order ends March 13 at 5:00 p.m.

Doors open at 6PM and the first game starts at 6:30PM sharp! We need volunteers to make this evening fun for all! Please sign up.  Students who require volunteer hours (6th grade and up) can sign up as well.

Spring After School Programs- Registration opens at 8:00 p.m. on March 12

Looking for fun enrichment activities for your student(s)? We have lots of exciting offerings this Spring for after school activities including some repeats and some new items. Registration opens on March 12th at 8:00 p.m. via our website (www.westgatewolvespta.com) and closes at midnight on March 19th. 

Classes will run from Wednesday April 3rd (the first day back from Spring Break) until Friday May 31st. 

Spaces are limited so mark your calendars to sign up and join in these wonderful activities. Limited scholarships available for eligible families. Questions? Check out our website or email: [email protected] 

Taco Bamba Fundraiser- March 19

Dragons love Tacos and so does Westgate! Grab food at the Falls Church location of Taco Bamba on Tuesday, March 19th and support Westgate's PTA. If order in the store just mention the fundraiser and if ordering online use coupon code: WESPTA. If you have other plans that day or need a wonderful gift, you can also buy a gift card on March 19th and it supports the fundraiser!

TJ Techstravaganza - May 18

We represent the leadership of Tomorrow’s Women in Science and Technology (TWIST), a student organization at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST). Each year, we promote STEM through our annual flagship outreach event, Techstravaganza, and we would like to invite your school’s students to attend! Techstravaganza is a free, public, hands-on STEM activity fair for elementary and middle school students in Northern Virginia. In previous years, we've hosted more than 4,500 students and 70 labs presenting STEM activities. Our exhibitors range from TJHSST clubs and our own TWIST volunteers to organizations like NASA SCaN, Art of Problem Solving, George Mason University, American Society of Naval Engineers, and the National Air and Space Museum. This year, we will be holding the 20th annual Techstravaganza on Saturday, May 18, 2024 from 10 AM to 4 PM at TJHSST. Admission is free, food will be for sale, and we hope that you can spread the word in your school. Here is our registration link: https://tinyurl.com/techstrav24, and attached are flyers (in English and Spanish) that can be used to advertise this event. We would appreciate you sharing this with families in a newsletter or your school's social media. Please let us know if translating the flyer into other languages will help. More information about the event can be found on our website at tjtechstrav.org. Thank you so much, and please let us know if you have any questions! Sincerely, TWIST Coordinators Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology 6560 Braddock Road, Alexandria, VA

SOL Dates - 3rd - 6th Grade Students

Please note that students in 3rd - 6th Grade take end of year SOL tests.  We ask that you avoid scheduling out of school appointments and vacations during the testing window.  The following are our tentative SOL dates.  If you you have any questions or concerns please reach out to your child's classroom teacher or our School Testing Coordinator, Ally Gilmore.  Thank you for ensuring a smooth testing window for your child.

SOL Testing Dates:

• Wednesday, May 15 – Grades 3-6 Reading
• Friday, May 17 – Grade 5 Science
• Wednesday, May 22 – Grades 3-6 Math

Arrival/Dismissal Safety Reminders for Westgate

Please remember to be mindful of our important safety procedures during arrival and dismissal.  

• There are NO left hand turns allowed in, or out of, Kiss & Ride during arrival or dismissal.  
• There are NO illegal u-turns allowed in front of the school on Magarity Road.  Please enter kiss and ride from the correct side (towards rt. 7) and follow the traffic pattern, as we've witnessed both student and staff safety being compromised too often. 
• Please ONLY cross your child at the dedicated cross walk (with police officer).  Crossing you children at any other location is not safe.
• There is NO parking on either side of Magarity Rd. right in front of the school.  Please do not park in these areas.
• Cars are not permitted in the bus loop between 8:20 - 9:00 a.m. and between 3:00 - 3:40 p.m.  

Our number one priority at Westgate remains student safety.  Thank you for adhering to these very important safety reminders.  Please note that the Fairfax County Police Department will be closely monitoring this situation.

🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Community Conversations Continue

Join Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid for Our Schools, Our Future – A Community Conversation. Your voice matters! Share your thoughts about FCPS and bring your questions to a conversation on:

• Tuesday, April 16, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Graham Road Elementary School.
• Tuesday, April 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at South County Middle School.
• Thursday, May 2, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Terraset Elementary School.
• Wednesday, May 8, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Hybla Valley Elementary School.
• Thursday, May 16, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Poe Middle School.
• Tuesday, May 21, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Katherine Johnson Middle School.

Pre-registration for a Community Conversation is not required but will help FCPS plan. Childcare and interpretation services will be provided for all events based on staff availability. Events are open to all. Learn about other opportunities to connect with Dr. Reid.

 

🎤 Nuestras Escuelas, Nuestro Futuro: Las Conversaciones Comunitarias   Continúan

Únase a la Superintendente Dra. Michelle Reid para Nuestras Escuelas, Nuestro Futuro Una Conversación Comunitaria. ¡Su voz es importante! Comparta sus pensamientos acerca de FCPS y traiga sus preguntas a una conversación el:

• Martes, 16 de abril, 6:30-7:30 p.m., en la Escuela Primaria Graham Road.
• Martes, 30 de abril, 6:30-7:30 p.m., en la Escuela Intermedia South County.
• Jueves, 2 de mayo, 6:30-7:30 p.m., en la Escuela Primaria Terraset.
• Miércoles, 8 de mayo, 6:30-7:30 p.m., en la Escuela Primaria Hybla Valley.
• Jueves, 16 de mayo, 6:30-7:30 p.m., en la Escuela Intermedia Poe.
• Martes, 21 de mayo, 6:30-7:30 p.m., en la Escuela Intermedia Katherine Johnson.

No es necesario inscribirse con antelación para asistir a una conversación comunitaria, pero nos ayuda a planificar el evento. Se ofrecerán servicios de cuidado de niños y de interpretación para todos las conversaciones comunitarias. Estos eventos están abiertos para todos. Infórmese sobre otras oportunidades de conectarse con la Dra. Reid.

Magnet School Application and Lottery Information

The Magnet Program registration window will be open from Tuesday, March 5, through Friday, April 12, 2024.  No late applications are accepted.

To learn more about the programs and the registration process, families are encouraged to attend one of the Parent Information Nights:

• Bailey’s Upper, February 6, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. (Virtual only)
• Hunters Woods Elementary, February 12, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. (In-person)
• Snow date: February 26, 2024 at 5:30 p.m.
• Bailey’s Primary, February 13, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. (In-person)
• Snow date: February 21, 2024 at 6:00 p.m

Learn more about the FCPS Magnet Programs here.  

Join the PTA Today! 

Our PTA is amazing and we would love you to join and be part of this great community of Westgate families! Signing up is easy and you can help us reach our membership goal by signing up today! You can sign up here.

SIS ParentVue

Access your student’s attendance records, grades, and assignments at any time with SIS ParentVUE. Caregivers should receive an activation code when they register their child. 

Once you have activated a ParentVUE account for an FCPS student, you will keep the same account until the student graduates. Information about students in the same family can be accessed through the same ParentVUE account. Access SIS ParentVUE by using an app on your iPhone, iPad, or Android devices. 

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

Multilingual Parent Information Line

☎️ Parent Information Phone Line 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. También pueden obtener apoyo para comunicarse con la escuela de su hijo. Vea la lista de números de teléfono.

Zones of Regulation 

This year we are excited to have implemented the program, Zones of Regulation at Westgate school wide.  This program teaches students how to name their emotions and build strategies to help manage them.  Emotions are categorized by blue, green, yellow, and red and each color represents a state of alertness.  The green zone is the calmest and a place where we are ready to learn.  You can find out more by clicking this here (English) or here (Spanish).

Free, On-Demand, Online Tutoring

Does your child need homework help or feedback on their writing? How about a practice quiz to get ready for a test?  FCPS students who’ve used Tutor.com have provided positive feedback:

• “This tutor was very helpful! She didn't tell me the answers. When needed, she helped me solve them! She was very kind and she really helped me!” –Elementary Math Student
• “This was an awesome tutor! She explained why I needed to do specific steps, and she gave me practice problems! Best tutor I have had!” –IB Chemistry Student

Unless they’ve been opted out, students can access Tutor.com through Schoology. Every session is personalized to meet students’ needs from remedial to advanced levels. Sessions focus on conceptual learning and critical thinking—not quick answers.

Learn more on FCPS’ Tutor.com webpage.

March

12 - PTA Meeting @ 6:00 p.m. 

15 - PTA Bingo Night @ 6:00 p.m.

15 - Meet Our New Family Liaison @ 9:00 a.m.

19 - PTA Taco Bamba Fundraiser

25 - 29 - No School for Students/Staff - Spring Break

April

1 - No School for Students - Teacher Workday

2 - No School for Students - Teacher PD Day

2 - Kindergarten Orientation @ 9:00 a.m. 

10 - No School for Students/Staff - Eid al Fitr

19 - PTA Staff Volleyball Game @ Marshall HS

7500 Magarity Rd, Falls Church, VA 22043  | Main Office: 703.610.5700

Attendance: 703.610.5757 | Web | Twitter

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

Good Afternoon Westgate Families,

I hope this finds you well and enjoying this first week of March!

As a reminder, we have a number of PTA events over the next week. Tomorrow, March 7, we will have our annual DesignPalooza where students will engage in activities around the theme "Gliding the Distance."

In addition, we have our general PTA meeting on Tuesday, March 12.  Ally Gilmore, our School Based Technology Specialist and School Testing Coordinator, will be sharing about assessments that students participate in at Westgate.  There is a zoom option available for those of you that can't make it in-person.     

Lastly, we have PTA Bingo next Friday, March 15.  Pre-order pizza and bingo cards by March 13.  Feel free to bring the whole family to join in on the fun! 

Please see below regarding more information about these events.  We hope to see many of our families attending these opportunities during the next week!

As always, thank you for your continued support of all things Westgate and have a wonderful rest of the week and weekend ahead!

All my best,

Hallie Demetriades

Principal 

Design Palooza

Thursday, March 7, the PTA is planning Design Palooza from 6-7 p.m. The theme this year is  "Gliding the Distance", inspired by the trial event of Science Olympiad. Students can have the chance to fly a piece of foam, surfing it on a wave of air created with cardboard as pictured in this video.  

• Students should bring their own clean, pizza box tops, or similar size cardboard piece. Foam gliders will be provided.
• We need volunteers to support three areas of activity that night, including an obstacle course. You are encouraged to sign up for a station where your student is likely to participate: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090D4AABAB28A1FB6-47829732-designpalooza#/ 

Contact Dottie at [email protected]

General PTA Meeting - March 12 @ 6:00 p.m.

Join us on Tuesday, March 12 at 6 p.m. in the library. In addition to our General PTA Agenda, Ally Gilmore, School Technology Specialist and School Testing Coordinator, will join us to talk about the assessment process and answer questions.

What are assessments? Assessments are part of the teaching and learning process in Fairfax County Public Schools and at Westgate. Our teachers give assessments to students on an ongoing basis to check for understanding and gather information about students' strengths and areas of growth.The state and school division also expect students to participate in certain tests to help with monitoring school and student performance and to provide information about additional services that may benefit the student. Please plan to attend this session with any testing questions or for additional information about how our school and teachers use test results to support student success.

For those who need to participate virtually, please use this Zoom link (Meeting ID: 920 5943 1149 and password: wolves)

PTA BINGO - March 15 @ 6:00 p.m.

If you're a BINGO veteran or have never played before, join us for a night of fun on Friday, March 15. We will play 5 regular rounds and 1 blackout round. The winners of each game gets to select a prize from the table.  Order your pizza and bingo cards now!  Pre-Order ends March 13 at 5:00 p.m.

Doors open at 6PM and the first game starts at 6:30PM sharp! We need volunteers to make this evening fun for all! Please sign up.  Students who require volunteer hours (6th grade and up) can sign up as well.

Spring After School Programs- Registration opens at 8:00 p.m. on March 12

Looking for fun enrichment activities for your student(s)? We have lots of exciting offerings this Spring for after school activities including some repeats and some new items. Registration opens on March 12th at 8:00 p.m. via our website (www.westgatewolvespta.com) and closes at midnight on March 19th. 

Classes will run from Wednesday April 3rd (the first day back from Spring Break) until Friday May 31st. 

Spaces are limited so mark your calendars to sign up and join in these wonderful activities. Limited scholarships available for eligible families. Questions? Check out our website or email: [email protected] 

SOL Dates - 3rd - 6th Grade Students

Please note that students in 3rd - 6th Grade take end of year SOL tests.  We ask that you avoid scheduling out of school appointments and vacations during the testing window.  The following are our tentative SOL dates.  If you you have any questions or concerns please reach out to your child's classroom teacher or our School Testing Coordinator, Ally Gilmore.  Thank you for ensuring a smooth testing window for your child.

SOL Testing Dates:

• Wednesday, May 15 – Grades 3-6 Reading
• Friday, May 17 – Grade 5 Science
• Wednesday, May 22 – Grades 3-6 Math

Taco Bamba Fundraiser- March 19

Dragons love Tacos and so does Westgate! Grab food at the Falls Church location of Taco Bamba on Tuesday, March 19th and support Westgate's PTA. If order in the store just mention the fundraiser and if ordering online use coupon code: WESPTA. If you have other plans that day or need a wonderful gift, you can also buy a gift card on March 19th and it supports the fundraiser!

Volunteers Needed for the PTA

To ensure the success of planned events we need parent and family volunteers. We want you to be involved with us. 

• We need support with the ongoing administration of the PTA in the form of a nominating committee.  Our goal is to have this committee formed by March 1st to help in identifying/nominating PTA Board Members for the upcoming school year.
• Do you have a rising kindergartener for the 2024-2025 school year? We need a volunteer to coordinate three playdates over the spring and summer for the incoming kindergarten families. We are asking now in the hopes this person can solidify some dates before the rising kindergarten orientation in April. This person also coordinates the Boo Hoo breakfast for families on the first day of school.

Please share your time and talents.

Email [email protected]

Arrival/Dismissal Safety Reminders for Westgate

Please remember to be mindful of our important safety procedures during arrival and dismissal.  

• There are NO left hand turns allowed in, or out of, Kiss & Ride during arrival or dismissal.  
• There are NO illegal u-turns allowed in front of the school on Magarity Road.  Please enter kiss and ride from the correct side (towards rt. 7) and follow the traffic pattern, as we've witnessed both student and staff safety being compromised too often. 
• Please ONLY cross your child at the dedicated cross walk (with police officer).  Crossing you children at any other location is not safe.
• There is NO parking on either side of Magarity Rd. right in front of the school.  Please do not park in these areas.
• Cars are not permitted in the bus loop between 8:20 - 9:00 a.m. and between 3:00 - 3:40 p.m.  

Our number one priority at Westgate remains student safety.  Thank you for adhering to these very important safety reminders.  Please note that the Fairfax County Police Department will be closely monitoring this situation.

🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Community Conversations Continue

Join Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid for Our Schools, Our Future – A Community Conversation. Your voice matters! Share your thoughts about FCPS and bring your questions to a conversation on:

• Tuesday, April 16, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Graham Road Elementary School.
• Tuesday, April 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at South County Middle School.
• Thursday, May 2, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Terraset Elementary School.
• Wednesday, May 8, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Hybla Valley Elementary School.
• Thursday, May 16, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Poe Middle School.
• Tuesday, May 21, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Katherine Johnson Middle School.

Pre-registration for a Community Conversation is not required but will help FCPS plan. Childcare and interpretation services will be provided for all events based on staff availability. Events are open to all. Learn about other opportunities to connect with Dr. Reid.

 

🎤 Nuestras Escuelas, Nuestro Futuro: Las Conversaciones Comunitarias   Continúan

Únase a la Superintendente Dra. Michelle Reid para Nuestras Escuelas, Nuestro Futuro Una Conversación Comunitaria. ¡Su voz es importante! Comparta sus pensamientos acerca de FCPS y traiga sus preguntas a una conversación el:

• Martes, 16 de abril, 6:30-7:30 p.m., en la Escuela Primaria Graham Road.
• Martes, 30 de abril, 6:30-7:30 p.m., en la Escuela Intermedia South County.
• Jueves, 2 de mayo, 6:30-7:30 p.m., en la Escuela Primaria Terraset.
• Miércoles, 8 de mayo, 6:30-7:30 p.m., en la Escuela Primaria Hybla Valley.
• Jueves, 16 de mayo, 6:30-7:30 p.m., en la Escuela Intermedia Poe.
• Martes, 21 de mayo, 6:30-7:30 p.m., en la Escuela Intermedia Katherine Johnson.

No es necesario inscribirse con antelación para asistir a una conversación comunitaria, pero nos ayuda a planificar el evento. Se ofrecerán servicios de cuidado de niños y de interpretación para todos las conversaciones comunitarias. Estos eventos están abiertos para todos. Infórmese sobre otras oportunidades de conectarse con la Dra. Reid.

Magnet School Application and Lottery Information

The Magnet Program registration window will be open from Tuesday, March 5, through Friday, April 12, 2024.  No late applications are accepted.

To learn more about the programs and the registration process, families are encouraged to attend one of the Parent Information Nights:

• Bailey’s Upper, February 6, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. (Virtual only)
• Hunters Woods Elementary, February 12, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. (In-person)
• Snow date: February 26, 2024 at 5:30 p.m.
• Bailey’s Primary, February 13, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. (In-person)
• Snow date: February 21, 2024 at 6:00 p.m

Learn more about the FCPS Magnet Programs here.  

Join the PTA Today! 

Our PTA is amazing and we would love you to join and be part of this great community of Westgate families! Signing up is easy and you can help us reach our membership goal by signing up today! You can sign up here.

SIS ParentVue

Access your student’s attendance records, grades, and assignments at any time with SIS ParentVUE. Caregivers should receive an activation code when they register their child. 

Once you have activated a ParentVUE account for an FCPS student, you will keep the same account until the student graduates. Information about students in the same family can be accessed through the same ParentVUE account. Access SIS ParentVUE by using an app on your iPhone, iPad, or Android devices. 

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

Multilingual Parent Information Line

☎️ Parent Information Phone Line 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. También pueden obtener apoyo para comunicarse con la escuela de su hijo. Vea la lista de números de teléfono.

Zones of Regulation 

This year we are excited to have implemented the program, Zones of Regulation at Westgate school wide.  This program teaches students how to name their emotions and build strategies to help manage them.  Emotions are categorized by blue, green, yellow, and red and each color represents a state of alertness.  The green zone is the calmest and a place where we are ready to learn.  You can find out more by clicking this here (English) or here (Spanish).

Free, On-Demand, Online Tutoring

Does your child need homework help or feedback on their writing? How about a practice quiz to get ready for a test?  FCPS students who’ve used Tutor.com have provided positive feedback:

• “This tutor was very helpful! She didn't tell me the answers. When needed, she helped me solve them! She was very kind and she really helped me!” –Elementary Math Student
• “This was an awesome tutor! She explained why I needed to do specific steps, and she gave me practice problems! Best tutor I have had!” –IB Chemistry Student

Unless they’ve been opted out, students can access Tutor.com through Schoology. Every session is personalized to meet students’ needs from remedial to advanced levels. Sessions focus on conceptual learning and critical thinking—not quick answers.

Learn more on FCPS’ Tutor.com webpage.

March

7 - PTA Design Palooza @ 6:00 p.m.

12 - PTA Meeting @ 6:00 p.m. 

15 - PTA Bingo Night @ 6:00 p.m.

15 - Meet Our New Family Liaison @ 9:00 a.m.

19 - PTA Taco Bamba Fundraiser

25 - 29 - No School for Students/Staff - Spring Break

April

1 - No School for Students - Teacher Workday

2 - No School for Students - Teacher PD Day

2 - Kindergarten Orientation @ 9:00 a.m. 

10 - No School for Students/Staff - Eid al Fitr

19 - PTA Staff Volleyball Game @ Marshall HS

7500 Magarity Rd, Falls Church, VA 22043  | Main Office: 703.610.5700

Attendance: 703.610.5757 | Web | Twitter

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

Good Afternoon Westgate Families,

I hope this finds you having a fantastic last week of February!

We were fortunate enough to host our FCPS Superintendent, Dr. Michelle Reid, at Westgate yesterday.  She had the opportunity to visit classrooms and meet many of our students and staff members.  We were proud to show off the powerful work around instruction and innovation that our students and teachers engage in every day.  We are certainly thankful to Dr. Reid for making it a priority to get out to schools and see the amazing things happening in our communities.

As a reminder, kindergarten registration is now open.  Students that turn five prior to September 30, 2024 are eligible to attend kindergarten this fall.  Please reach out to our Registrar, Tracy Green, at [email protected] to schedule a registration appointment.  As as reminder, Kindergarten Orientation will be held Tuesday, April 2 at 9:00 a.m.  You will learn more about the kindergarten curriculum from our staff, and your child will be able to visit classrooms and connect with new friends.  We hope to see many new and returning families on April 2! 

Lastly, please join us in meeting our new Family Liaison, Ana Trevino on Friday, March 15.  We will gather for an informal meet and greet in the cafeteria starting around 9 a.m.  We are so thankful that Ms. Trevino has joined our school team and hope many of you will be able to meet her in-person at this event.

As always, thank you for your continued support of all things Westgate and have a wonderful week and weekend ahead!

All my best,

Hallie Demetriades

Principal 

Design Palooza

Thursday, March 7, the PTA is planning Design Palooza from 6-7 p.m. The theme this year is  "Gliding the Distance", inspired by the trial event of Science Olympiad. Students can have the chance to fly a piece of foam, surfing it on a wave of air created with cardboard as pictured in this video.  

• Students should bring their own clean, pizza box tops, or similar size cardboard piece. Foam gliders will be provided.
• We need volunteers to support three areas of activity that night, including an obstacle course. You are encouraged to sign up for a station where your student is likely to participate: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090D4AABAB28A1FB6-47829732-designpalooza#/ 

Contact Dottie at [email protected]

PTA BINGO - March 15

If you're a BINGO veteran or have never played before, join us for a night of fun on Friday, March 15. We will play 5 regular rounds and 1 blackout round. The winners of each game gets to select a prize from the table.  Order your pizza and bingo cards now!

Doors open at 6PM and the first game starts at 6:30PM sharp! We need volunteers to make this evening fun for all! Please sign up.  Students who require volunteer hours (6th grade and up) can sign up as well.

SOL Dates - 3rd - 6th Grade Students

Please note that students in 3rd - 6th Grade take end of year SOL tests.  We ask that you avoid scheduling out of school appointments and vacations during the testing window.  The following are our tentative SOL dates.  If you you have any questions or concerns please reach out to your child's classroom teacher or our School Testing Coordinator, Ally Gilmore.  Thank you for ensuring a smooth testing window for your child.

SOL Testing Dates:

• Wednesday, May 15 – Grades 3-6 Reading
• Friday, May 17 – Grade 5 Science
• Wednesday, May 22 – Grades 3-6 Math

Taco Bamba Fundraiser- March 19

Dragons love Tacos and so does Westgate! Grab food at the Falls Church location of Taco Bamba on Tuesday, March 19th and support Westgate's PTA. If order in the store just mention the fundraiser and if ordering online use coupon code: WESPTA. If you have other plans that day or need a wonderful gift, you can also buy a gift card on March 19th and it supports the fundraiser!

Portrait of a Graduate - Questions Families Can Ask at Home

We’ve been sharing our school’s focus on Portrait of a Graduate, or POG.  A focus on these important attributes will support all students in order to develop the skills to be successful today, tomorrow, and in the future!  We’ve shared how we do this in school by regularly using and reflecting on these skills across all of the great things that students learn every day!  How can you help at home? Ask questions that encourage your child to talk more deeply about their day. These questions will lead to specific answers of what they really did and how they did it!

If you ask, “what did you do today?” your child’s answer might be very general, not descriptive, and you might not have learned much about what they did.  If you use more specific,  open questions, we are more likely to get better answers that highlight not only what your child learned, but the skills that they used along the way! 

Consider some of these options: 

• What kids in your class did you work with today?  What did you work on together? What was hard about working with someone else?
• What new ideas did you come up with?  What was good about your ideas?
• How did you share your ideas with your friends or your teachers today?  What did you share?  How did you share?
• What did you do today to help you learn or stay focused?  What did you learn because you did that?  How would it help you do well in other areas?
• What did you get better at today?  How do you know you got better?  How could you improve even more?

These are some simple suggestions that might help your child share more. These deeper questions will encourage deeper answers!  We hope that this empowers your child to share more of the great experiences they get every day!

Volunteers Needed for the PTA

To ensure the success of planned events we need parent and family volunteers. We want you to be involved with us. 

• We need support with the ongoing administration of the PTA in the form of a nominating committee.  Our goal is to have this committee formed by March 1st to help in identifying/nominating PTA Board Members for the upcoming school year.
• Do you have a rising kindergartener for the 2024-2025 school year? We need a volunteer to coordinate three playdates over the spring and summer for the incoming kindergarten families. We are asking now in the hopes this person can solidify some dates before the rising kindergarten orientation in April. This person also coordinates the Boo Hoo breakfast for families on the first day of school.

Please share your time and talents.

Email [email protected]

Arrival/Dismissal Safety Reminders for Westgate

Please remember to be mindful of our important safety procedures during arrival and dismissal.  

• There are NO left hand turns allowed in, or out of, Kiss & Ride during arrival or dismissal.  
• There are NO illegal u-turns allowed in front of the school on Magarity Road.  Please enter kiss and ride from the correct side (towards rt. 7) and follow the traffic pattern, as we've witnessed both student and staff safety being compromised too often. 
• Please ONLY cross your child at the dedicated cross walk (with police officer).  Crossing you children at any other location is not safe.
• There is NO parking on either side of Magarity Rd. right in front of the school.  Please do not park in these areas.
• Cars are not permitted in the bus loop between 8:20 - 9:00 a.m. and between 3:00 - 3:40 p.m.  

Our number one priority at Westgate remains student safety.  Thank you for adhering to these very important safety reminders.  Please note that the Fairfax County Police Department will be closely monitoring this situation.

Eating Disorders Resource Materials 

Eating disorders are conditions that can have a serious effect on health.  They are serious behaviors that affect every aspect of the child’s life. Eating disorders are not identified based on weight changes as much as behaviors and attitudes. Signs of eating disorders may differ between males and females and in different age groups.  Often, a young person may not recognize the signs that they might have an eating disorder.  Parents/guardians and family members are in a position to notice behaviors that cause concern.  It is important that a child with an eating disorder be treated early by someone who understands this type of care.  You can find more information about Eating Disorders here.  

🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Community Conversations Continue

Join Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid for Our Schools, Our Future – A Community Conversation. Your voice matters! Share your thoughts about FCPS and bring your questions to a conversation on:

• Tuesday, April 16, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Graham Road Elementary School.
• Tuesday, April 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at South County Middle School.
• Thursday, May 2, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Terraset Elementary School.
• Wednesday, May 8, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Hybla Valley Elementary School.
• Thursday, May 16, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Poe Middle School.
• Tuesday, May 21, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Katherine Johnson Middle School.

Pre-registration for a Community Conversation is not required but will help FCPS plan. Childcare and interpretation services will be provided for all events based on staff availability. Events are open to all. Learn about other opportunities to connect with Dr. Reid.

 

🎤 Nuestras Escuelas, Nuestro Futuro: Las Conversaciones Comunitarias   Continúan

Únase a la Superintendente Dra. Michelle Reid para Nuestras Escuelas, Nuestro Futuro Una Conversación Comunitaria. ¡Su voz es importante! Comparta sus pensamientos acerca de FCPS y traiga sus preguntas a una conversación el:

• Martes, 16 de abril, 6:30-7:30 p.m., en la Escuela Primaria Graham Road.
• Martes, 30 de abril, 6:30-7:30 p.m., en la Escuela Intermedia South County.
• Jueves, 2 de mayo, 6:30-7:30 p.m., en la Escuela Primaria Terraset.
• Miércoles, 8 de mayo, 6:30-7:30 p.m., en la Escuela Primaria Hybla Valley.
• Jueves, 16 de mayo, 6:30-7:30 p.m., en la Escuela Intermedia Poe.
• Martes, 21 de mayo, 6:30-7:30 p.m., en la Escuela Intermedia Katherine Johnson.

No es necesario inscribirse con antelación para asistir a una conversación comunitaria, pero nos ayuda a planificar el evento. Se ofrecerán servicios de cuidado de niños y de interpretación para todos las conversaciones comunitarias. Estos eventos están abiertos para todos. Infórmese sobre otras oportunidades de conectarse con la Dra. Reid.

Magnet School Application and Lottery Information

The Magnet Program registration window will be open from Tuesday, March 5, through Friday, April 12, 2024.  No late applications are accepted.

To learn more about the programs and the registration process, families are encouraged to attend one of the Parent Information Nights:

• Bailey’s Upper, February 6, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. (Virtual only)
• Hunters Woods Elementary, February 12, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. (In-person)
• Snow date: February 26, 2024 at 5:30 p.m.
• Bailey’s Primary, February 13, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. (In-person)
• Snow date: February 21, 2024 at 6:00 p.m

Learn more about the FCPS Magnet Programs here.  

❄️ Preparing for Winter Weather

Winter weather will be here before you know it! Watch this video to see how weather-related closing decisions are made.

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.

Join the PTA Today! 

Our PTA is amazing and we would love you to join and be part of this great community of Westgate families! Signing up is easy and you can help us reach our membership goal by signing up today! You can sign up here.

SIS ParentVue

Access your student’s attendance records, grades, and assignments at any time with SIS ParentVUE. Caregivers should receive an activation code when they register their child. 

Once you have activated a ParentVUE account for an FCPS student, you will keep the same account until the student graduates. Information about students in the same family can be accessed through the same ParentVUE account. Access SIS ParentVUE by using an app on your iPhone, iPad, or Android devices. 

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

Multilingual Parent Information Line

☎️ Parent Information Phone Line 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. También pueden obtener apoyo para comunicarse con la escuela de su hijo. Vea la lista de números de teléfono.

Zones of Regulation 

This year we are excited to have implemented the program, Zones of Regulation at Westgate school wide.  This program teaches students how to name their emotions and build strategies to help manage them.  Emotions are categorized by blue, green, yellow, and red and each color represents a state of alertness.  The green zone is the calmest and a place where we are ready to learn.  You can find out more by clicking this here (English) or here (Spanish).

Free, On-Demand, Online Tutoring

Does your child need homework help or feedback on their writing? How about a practice quiz to get ready for a test?  FCPS students who’ve used Tutor.com have provided positive feedback:

• “This tutor was very helpful! She didn't tell me the answers. When needed, she helped me solve them! She was very kind and she really helped me!” –Elementary Math Student
• “This was an awesome tutor! She explained why I needed to do specific steps, and she gave me practice problems! Best tutor I have had!” –IB Chemistry Student

Unless they’ve been opted out, students can access Tutor.com through Schoology. Every session is personalized to meet students’ needs from remedial to advanced levels. Sessions focus on conceptual learning and critical thinking—not quick answers.

Learn more on FCPS’ Tutor.com webpage.

March

7 - PTA Design Palooza @ 6:00 p.m.

12 - PTA Meeting @ 6:00 p.m. 

15 - PTA Bingo Night @ 6:00 p.m.

15 - Meet Our New Family Liaison @ 9:00 a.m.

19 - PTA Taco Bamba Fundraiser

25 - 29 - No School for Students/Staff - Spring Break

April

1 - No School for Students - Teacher Workday

2 - No School for Students - Teacher PD Day

2 - Kindergarten Orientation @ 9:00 a.m. 

10 - No School for Students/Staff - Eid al Fitr

19 - PTA Staff Volleyball Game @ Marshall HS

7500 Magarity Rd, Falls Church, VA 22043  | Main Office: 703.610.5700

Attendance: 703.610.5757 | Web | Twitter

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

Good Afternoon Westgate Families,

I hope this finds you well after the long weekend.  It is hard to believe that we are quickly making our way towards the end of February.  We have a busy March ahead so make sure you keep up to date with your child's classroom teacher and our PTA for upcoming events and activities.

Do you have a rising Kindergartener?  Now is the time to start thinking about the registration process.  The sooner that students register, the better prepared we are to have the adequate staffing we need for the fall.  Please reach out to our Registrar, Tracy Green, at [email protected] to schedule an appointment.  Also, Kindergarten Orientation will be held Tuesday, April 2 at 9:00 a.m.  *Please note that this is an updated date*  You will learn more about the kindergarten curriculum from our staff and your child will be able to visit classrooms and connect with new friends.  Please plan on making this day a priority for both you and your child.  We hope to see many new and returning families on April 2! 

As always, thank you for your continued support of all things Westgate and have a wonderful week ahead!

All my best,

Hallie Demetriades

Principal 

SOL Dates - 3rd - 6th Grade Students

Please note that students in 3rd - 6th Grade take end of year SOL tests.  We ask that you avoid scheduling out of school appointments and vacations during the testing window.  The following are our tentative SOL dates.  If you you have any questions or concerns please reach out to your child's classroom teacher or our School Testing Coordinator, Ally Gilmore.  Thank you for ensuring a smooth testing window for your child.

SOL Testing Dates:

• Wednesday, May 15 – Grades 3-6 Reading
• Friday, May 17 – Grade 5 Science
• Wednesday, May 22 – Grades 3-6 Math

Portrait of a Graduate - Questions Families Can Ask at Home

We’ve been sharing our school’s focus on Portrait of a Graduate, or POG.  A focus on these important attributes will support all students in order to develop the skills to be successful today, tomorrow, and in the future!  We’ve shared how we do this in school by regularly using and reflecting on these skills across all of the great things that students learn every day!  How can you help at home? Ask questions that encourage your child to talk more deeply about their day. These questions will lead to specific answers of what they really did and how they did it!

If you ask, “what did you do today?” your child’s answer might be very general, not descriptive, and you might not have learned much about what they did.  If you use more specific,  open questions, we are more likely to get better answers that highlight not only what your child learned, but the skills that they used along the way! 

Consider some of these options: 

• What kids in your class did you work with today?  What did you work on together? What was hard about working with someone else?
• What new ideas did you come up with?  What was good about your ideas?
• How did you share your ideas with your friends or your teachers today?  What did you share?  How did you share?
• What did you do today to help you learn or stay focused?  What did you learn because you did that?  How would it help you do well in other areas?
• What did you get better at today?  How do you know you got better?  How could you improve even more?

These are some simple suggestions that might help your child share more. These deeper questions will encourage deeper answers!  We hope that this empowers your child to share more of the great experiences they get every day!

Design Palooza

Thursday, March 7, the PTA is planning Design Palooza from 6-7 p.m. The theme this year is  "Gliding the Distance", inspired by the trial event of Science Olympiad. Students can have the chance to fly a piece of foam, surfing it on a wave of air created with cardboard as pictured in this video. 

The PTA needs your help to bring the event to life: 

• Do you have a career, talent, or special interest related to this type of engineering?  If so, we would appreciate your insight on this event.
• Please save your clean, pizza box tops to donate for use at the event. 
• Consider representing your class and form a relay team(s) that practices this month.  If you want to form a team, please notify Dottie at [email protected] by Friday, February 23 to obtain a foam glider to practice with in advance.  Please also share the names of the students/grades that would like to form a team and one parent leader that can support the practice of the team.  Note: students can participate that night as individuals, teams are not required.  

Contact Dottie at [email protected]

PTA BINGO - March 15

If you're a BINGO veteran or have never played before, join us for a night of fun on Friday, March 15. We will play 5 regular rounds and 1 blackout round. The winners of each game gets to select a prize from the table.  Order your pizza and bingo cards now!

Doors open at 6PM and the first game starts at 6:30PM sharp! We need volunteers to make this evening fun for all! Please sign up.  Students who require volunteer hours (6th grade and up) can sign up as well.

Taco Bamba Fundraiser- March 19

Dragons love Tacos and so does Westgate! Grab food at the Falls Church location of Taco Bamba on Tuesday, March 19th and support Westgate's PTA. If order in the store just mention the fundraiser and if ordering online use coupon code: WESPTA. If you have other plans that day or need a wonderful gift, you can also buy a gift card on March 19th and it supports the fundraiser!

Volunteers Needed for the PTA

To ensure the success of planned events we need parent and family volunteers. We want you to be involved with us. 

• We need support with the ongoing administration of the PTA in the form of a nominating committee.  Our goal is to have this committee formed by March 1st to help in identifying/nominating PTA Board Members for the upcoming school year.
• Do you have a rising kindergartener for the 20224-2025 school year? We need a volunteer to coordinate three playdates over the spring and summer for the incoming kindergarten families. We are asking now in the hopes this person can solidify some dates before the rising kindergarten orientation in April. This person also coordinates the Boo Hoo breakfast for families on the first day of school.

Please share your time and talents.

Email [email protected]

Girls on the Run @ Westgate! - Registration Ends 2/27

Girls on the Run (GOTR) is coming back to Westgate this spring! GOTR has fun, evidence-based programs that inspire girls in 3rd-8th grade to build their confidence, kindness, and decision-making skills. Dynamic lessons instill valuable life skills including the important connection between physical and emotional health. Starting the week of March 4th, the team will meet every Tuesday and Thursday from 3:30 to 5pm. The program culminates in a celebratory 5K at the end of the season! The standard program fee is $185 and   20 lessons/practices, a t-shirt, GOTR giveaway, entry into the 5K, a 5K medal, and more. Financial assistance is available for anyone who needs it, with the lowest program registration cost being $22 for the season. Registration for the spring 2024 program is open February 5-27, and the season will run from the week of March 4 through May 19. Please register at www.gotrnova.org.

For more information, go to the Girls on the Run of NOVA website (www.gotrnova.org) or contact the Westgate GOTR team’s head coach, Naveed Khan at [email protected].

Registro está abierto ahora para el programa de Girls on the Run a Westgate. Usando un currículo que se integra creativamente actividad física con lecciones de vida, Girls on the Run empodera a las chicas para que desarrollen la confianza y el carácter que necesitan convertirse adultas jóvenes fuertes y saludables. Comienza la semana de March 4th, el equipo encontrará cada martes and jueves de 3:30 to 5pm. Registro para el programa de primavera de 2024 está abierta del 5-27 de febrero, y la temporada se extenderá del 4 de marzo al 19 de mayo. El precio estándar del programa es $185, pero ofrecemos descuentos de militar y hermanas, tanto como asistencia financiera para familias que califiquen también. 

Para más información, va al sitio web de Girls on the Run of NOVA (www.gotrnova.org) o contacta la entrenadora del equipo de Girls on the Run, Naveed Khan, a [email protected].

Arrival/Dismissal Safety Reminders for Westgate

Please remember to be mindful of our important safety procedures during arrival and dismissal.  

• There are NO left hand turns allowed in, or out of, Kiss & Ride during arrival or dismissal.  
• There are NO illegal u-turns allowed in front of the school on Magarity Road.  Please enter kiss and ride from the correct side (towards rt. 7) and follow the traffic pattern, as we've witnessed both student and staff safety being compromised too often. 
• Please ONLY cross your child at the dedicated cross walk (with police officer).  Crossing you children at any other location is not safe.
• There is NO parking on either side of Magarity Rd. right in front of the school.  Please do not park in these areas.
• Cars are not permitted in the bus loop between 8:20 - 9:00 a.m. and between 3:00 - 3:40 p.m.  

Our number one priority at Westgate remains student safety.  Thank you for adhering to these very important safety reminders.  Please note that the Fairfax County Police Department will be closely monitoring this situation.

Fiscal Year 2025 Proposed Budget Focused on Educational Excellence and Competitive Compensation 

At the last School Board meeting, Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid proposed a budget for Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 that focuses on excellence and providing students an equitable education in an inclusive and respectful environment, where access, opportunity, and achievement are available to all. 

The budget also prioritizes competitive compensation to attract and retain a world-class workforce. 

The FY 2025 Proposed Budget totals $3.8 billion, an increase of $301.8 million, or 8.6%, over the FY 2024 Approved Budget. Nearly 86% of the budget is focused on instruction. Key highlights include:

• Supporting students academically by maintaining existing class size formulas and providing necessary support to all students. 
• Retaining and attracting world-class educators with a 6% market scale adjustment.
• Strengthening student well-being outside of the classroom with expanded athletics offerings, additional athletic trainers, and enhanced stipends for fine and performing arts.
• Continuing initiatives including expansion of inclusive preschool, adoption of green initiatives, and funding assistant director of student activities positions previously funded with ESSER III.

Special education daily contract extensions, funding for the safety and security screening program, and late buses to support academics and activities at middle schools are several of the priorities to be addressed at the end of FY 2024. 

The School Board is scheduled to adopt the Advertised Budget on Thursday, February 22. Read more about the proposed budget. Keep up with FCPS’ budget development process. 

El presupuesto propuesto para el año fiscal 2025 se centra en la excelencia educativa y la remuneración competitiva

En la reunión de la Junta Escolar de la semana pasada, la Superintendente Dra. Michelle Reid propuso un presupuesto para el Año Fiscal (AF) 2025 que se centra en la excelencia y en proporcionar a los estudiantes una educación equitativa en un entorno inclusivo y respetuoso, donde el acceso, la oportunidad y el logro están disponibles para todos. 

El presupuesto también da prioridad a una remuneración competitiva para atraer y retener a una mano de obra de categoría mundial. 

El presupuesto propuesto para el año fiscal 2025 asciende a $3.8 millones, un aumento de $301.8 millones, o del 8,6%, con respecto al presupuesto aprobado para el año fiscal 2024. Casi el 86% del presupuesto se centra en la instrucción. Los aspectos más destacados incluyen:

• Apoyar a los estudiantes académicamente manteniendo las fórmulas existentes de tamaño de clase y proporcionando el apoyo necesario a todos los estudiantes. 
• Retener y atraer educadores de clase mundial con un ajuste de escala de mercado del 6%.
• Reforzar el bienestar de los alumnos fuera de las aulas con una mayor oferta de actividades deportivas, más entrenadores deportivos y más becas para bellas artes y artes escénicas.
• Continuación de iniciativas como la ampliación del preescolar inclusivo, la adopción de iniciativas ecológicas y la financiación de puestos de subdirector de actividades estudiantiles financiados anteriormente con ESSER III.

Extensiones de contrato diario de educación especial, financiamiento para el programa de seguridad y revisión de seguridad, y autobuses tardíos para apoyar las actividades académicas y en las escuelas intermedias son varias de las prioridades que se abordarán al final del año fiscal 2024. 

La Junta Escolar tiene programado adoptar el Presupuesto Anunciado el jueves 22 de febrero. Lea más sobre el presupuesto propuesto. Manténgase al día con el proceso de desarrollo del presupuesto de FCPS.

Eating Disorders Resource Materials 

Eating disorders are conditions that can have a serious effect on health.  They are serious behaviors that affect every aspect of the child’s life. Eating disorders are not identified based on weight changes as much as behaviors and attitudes. Signs of eating disorders may differ between males and females and in different age groups.  Often, a young person may not recognize the signs that they might have an eating disorder.  Parents/guardians and family members are in a position to notice behaviors that cause concern.  It is important that a child with an eating disorder be treated early by someone who understands this type of care.  You can find more information about Eating Disorders here.  

🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Community Conversations Continue

Join Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid for Our Schools, Our Future – A Community Conversation. Your voice matters! Share your thoughts about FCPS and bring your questions to a conversation on:

• Tuesday, April 16, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Graham Road Elementary School.
• Tuesday, April 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at South County Middle School.
• Thursday, May 2, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Terraset Elementary School.
• Wednesday, May 8, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Hybla Valley Elementary School.
• Thursday, May 16, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Poe Middle School.
• Tuesday, May 21, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Katherine Johnson Middle School.

Pre-registration for a Community Conversation is not required but will help FCPS plan. Childcare and interpretation services will be provided for all events based on staff availability. Events are open to all. Learn about other opportunities to connect with Dr. Reid.

 

🎤 Nuestras Escuelas, Nuestro Futuro: Las Conversaciones Comunitarias   Continúan

Únase a la Superintendente Dra. Michelle Reid para Nuestras Escuelas, Nuestro Futuro Una Conversación Comunitaria. ¡Su voz es importante! Comparta sus pensamientos acerca de FCPS y traiga sus preguntas a una conversación el:

• Martes, 16 de abril, 6:30-7:30 p.m., en la Escuela Primaria Graham Road.
• Martes, 30 de abril, 6:30-7:30 p.m., en la Escuela Intermedia South County.
• Jueves, 2 de mayo, 6:30-7:30 p.m., en la Escuela Primaria Terraset.
• Miércoles, 8 de mayo, 6:30-7:30 p.m., en la Escuela Primaria Hybla Valley.
• Jueves, 16 de mayo, 6:30-7:30 p.m., en la Escuela Intermedia Poe.
• Martes, 21 de mayo, 6:30-7:30 p.m., en la Escuela Intermedia Katherine Johnson.

No es necesario inscribirse con antelación para asistir a una conversación comunitaria, pero nos ayuda a planificar el evento. Se ofrecerán servicios de cuidado de niños y de interpretación para todos las conversaciones comunitarias. Estos eventos están abiertos para todos. Infórmese sobre otras oportunidades de conectarse con la Dra. Reid.

🗺️ Dual Language Immersion Program Registration

Registration for the countywide lottery for Dual Language Immersion (DLI) programs will open on Monday, January 22. Current pre-K students may apply for the kindergarten immersion program, and current kindergarten students may apply for the first grade immersion programs for the 2024-25 school year. Programs are available in French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. 

Parents/caregivers who are interested may want to attend an informational meeting. Meetings are held at the school site. Check the FCPS events calendar for the most current information. Meetings will begin on Tuesday, January 16. 

A virtual meeting hosted by the World Languages Office will include general program information. Access to this virtual meeting will be made available on the FCPS events calendar and the Dual Language Immersion registration site on the day of the meeting.

Get more information on the immersion program webpage and registration page.

🗺️ Inscripción para el Programa de Inmersión en Dos Idiomas

La inscripción para la lotería en todo el condado para los programas de Inmersión en Dos Idiomas (DLI) se abrirá el lunes 22 de enero. 

Los estudiantes actuales de pre-K pueden aplicar para el programa de inmersión de kindergarten, y los estudiantes actuales de kindergarten pueden aplicar para los programas de inmersión de primer grado para el año escolar 2024-25. Los programas están disponibles en francés, alemán, japonés, coreano y español. 

Los padres/cuidadores que estén interesados pueden asistir a una reunión informativa. Las reuniones se llevan a cabo en la escuela. Revise el calendario de eventos de FCPS para información más actualizada. Las reuniones comenzarán el martes, 16 de enero. 

Una reunión virtual organizada por la Oficina de Idiomas Mundiales incluirá información general del programa. El acceso a esta reunión virtual estará disponible en el calendario de eventos de FCPS y en el sitio de inscripción de Inmersión en Dos Idiomas el día de la reunión.

Obtenga más información en la página web del programa de inmersión y en la página de inscripción.

Magnet School Application and Lottery Information

The Magnet Program registration window will be open from Tuesday, March 5, through Friday, April 12, 2024.  No late applications are accepted.

To learn more about the programs and the registration process, families are encouraged to attend one of the Parent Information Nights:

• Bailey’s Upper, February 6, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. (Virtual only)
• Hunters Woods Elementary, February 12, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. (In-person)
• Snow date: February 26, 2024 at 5:30 p.m.
• Bailey’s Primary, February 13, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. (In-person)
• Snow date: February 21, 2024 at 6:00 p.m

Learn more about the FCPS Magnet Programs here.  

❄️ Preparing for Winter Weather

Winter weather will be here before you know it! Watch this video to see how weather-related closing decisions are made.

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.

Join the PTA Today! 

Our PTA is amazing and we would love you to join and be part of this great community of Westgate families! Signing up is easy and you can help us reach our membership goal by signing up today! You can sign up here.

SIS ParentVue

Access your student’s attendance records, grades, and assignments at any time with SIS ParentVUE. Caregivers should receive an activation code when they register their child. 

Once you have activated a ParentVUE account for an FCPS student, you will keep the same account until the student graduates. Information about students in the same family can be accessed through the same ParentVUE account. Access SIS ParentVUE by using an app on your iPhone, iPad, or Android devices. 

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

Multilingual Parent Information Line

☎️ Parent Information Phone Line 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. También pueden obtener apoyo para comunicarse con la escuela de su hijo. Vea la lista de números de teléfono.

Zones of Regulation 

This year we are excited to have implemented the program, Zones of Regulation at Westgate school wide.  This program teaches students how to name their emotions and build strategies to help manage them.  Emotions are categorized by blue, green, yellow, and red and each color represents a state of alertness.  The green zone is the calmest and a place where we are ready to learn.  You can find out more by clicking this here (English) or here (Spanish).

Free, On-Demand, Online Tutoring

Does your child need homework help or feedback on their writing? How about a practice quiz to get ready for a test?  FCPS students who’ve used Tutor.com have provided positive feedback:

• “This tutor was very helpful! She didn't tell me the answers. When needed, she helped me solve them! She was very kind and she really helped me!” –Elementary Math Student
• “This was an awesome tutor! She explained why I needed to do specific steps, and she gave me practice problems! Best tutor I have had!” –IB Chemistry Student

Unless they’ve been opted out, students can access Tutor.com through Schoology. Every session is personalized to meet students’ needs from remedial to advanced levels. Sessions focus on conceptual learning and critical thinking—not quick answers.

Learn more on FCPS’ Tutor.com webpage.

March

7 - PTA Design Palooza @ 6:00 p.m.

12 - PTA Meeting @ 6:30 p.m. 

16 - PTA Bingo Night @ 6:00 p.m.

19 - PTA Taco Bamba Fundraiser

25 - 29 - No School for Students/Staff - Spring Break

April

1 - No School for Students - Teacher Workday

2 - No School for Students - Teacher PD Day

2 - Kindergarten Orientation @ 9:00 a.m. *Date Change*

10 - No School for Students/Staff - Eid al Fitr

19 - PTA Staff Volleyball Game @ Marshall HS

7500 Magarity Rd, Falls Church, VA 22043  | Main Office: 703.610.5700

Attendance: 703.610.5757 | Web | Twitter

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Good Afternoon Westgate Families,

I hope this finds you having a fantastic start to the week. Last Friday, Westgate hosted our annual Career Day.  It was a day full of excitement, and we are so grateful to all our parents and community members that came to present to our students!  It was interesting to hear all about their professional experiences, and the exciting things they get to do each and every day.  Also, we were highlighted on the Fox 5 news program Friday evening since their anchors, Angie Goff & Shomari Stone, visited our 4th, 5th, and 6th grade students that day.  It was so fun to see both our students, and our school, celebrated in such a positive way.  I was beyond proud of how well our students represented our incredible school community.  In case you missed us on the news, you can watch it here. 

In addition, I am thrilled to announce that we have hired a new Family Liaison at Westgate.  Ana Trevino will be with us on Tuesdays and Fridays.  You can read more about her below but she is eager to begin meeting families and supporting our student, staff, and community needs.  

As always, thank you for your continued support of all things Westgate and have a wonderful week ahead!

All my best,

Hallie Demetriades

Principal 

Meet Our New Family Liaison - Ana Trevino 

Hello team! I'm excited to officially introduce myself as the new Family Liaison at Westgate. I'm Ana Treviño, and I'm here to continue supporting our collaboration and communication. If there's anything you need or want to discuss regarding our families, feel free to reach out at [email protected].  Let's continue working together to strengthen our connections and make a positive impact on the community we serve. Thank you!

¡Hola equipo! Estoy emocionada de presentarme oficialmente como la nueva Enlace Familiar. Soy Ana Treviño y estoy aquí para seguir apoyando nuestra colaboración y comunicación. Si hay algo que necesiten o quieran discutir con respecto a nuestras familias, no duden en comunicarse a [email protected]. Sigamos trabajando juntos para fortalecer nuestras conexiones y tener un impacto positivo en la comunidad que servimos. ¡Gracias!

Volunteers Needed for the PTA

To ensure the success of planned events we need parent and family volunteers. We want you to be involved with us. 

• We need support with the ongoing administration of the PTA in the form of a nominating committee.  Our goal is to have this committee formed by March 1st to help in identifying/nominating PTA Board Members for the upcoming school year.
• Do you have a rising kindergartener for the 20224-2025 school year? We need a volunteer to coordinate three playdates over the spring and summer for the incoming kindergarten families. We are asking now in the hopes this person can solidify some dates before the rising kindergarten orientation in April. This person also coordinates the Boo Hoo breakfast for families on the first day of school.

Please share your time and talents.

Email [email protected]

MOD Pizza Fundraiser - February 11

Save the Date! ALL DAY Sunday February 11th order MOD Pizza from the Tysons location (8399 Leesburg Pike) and support Westgate! This is a great way to order pizza for lunch or for the Super Bowl and support the PTA. Don't forget to use the code MODGIVES25 when ordering online or mention the flyer in the store!

Girls on the Run is Back @ Westgate!

Girls on the Run (GOTR) is coming back to Westgate this spring! GOTR has fun, evidence-based programs that inspire girls in 3rd-8th grade to build their confidence, kindness, and decision-making skills. Dynamic lessons instill valuable life skills including the important connection between physical and emotional health. Starting the week of March 4th, the team will meet every Tuesday and Thursday from 3:30 to 5pm. The program culminates in a celebratory 5K at the end of the season! The standard program fee is $185 and includes 20 lessons/practices, a t-shirt, GOTR giveaway, entry into the 5K, a 5K medal, and more. Financial assistance is available for anyone who needs it, with the lowest program registration cost being $22 for the season. Registration for the spring 2024 program is open February 5-27, and the season will run from the week of March 4 through May 19. Please register at www.gotrnova.org.

For more information, go to the Girls on the Run of NOVA website (www.gotrnova.org) or contact the Westgate GOTR team’s head coach, Naveed Khan at [email protected].

Registro está abierto ahora para el programa de Girls on the Run a Westgate. Usando un currículo que se integra creativamente actividad física con lecciones de vida, Girls on the Run empodera a las chicas para que desarrollen la confianza y el carácter que necesitan convertirse adultas jóvenes fuertes y saludables. Comienza la semana de March 4th, el equipo encontrará cada martes and jueves de 3:30 to 5pm. Registro para el programa de primavera de 2024 está abierta del 5-27 de febrero, y la temporada se extenderá del 4 de marzo al 19 de mayo. El precio estándar del programa es $185, pero ofrecemos descuentos de militar y hermanas, tanto como asistencia financiera para familias que califiquen también. 

Para más información, va al sitio web de Girls on the Run of NOVA (www.gotrnova.org) o contacta la entrenadora del equipo de Girls on the Run, Naveed Khan, a [email protected].

Portrait of a Graduate - Goal-Directed and Resilient Individual

Another of the Portrait of a Graduate attributes we focus on is being a goal-directed and resilient individual.  As students grow as goal-directed and resilient individuals, they have skills to successfully address challenges that they will encounter throughout their lifetime.

Goal-Directed and Resilient Individuals:

• Engage in healthy choices to help their physical and emotional well-being
• Problem-solve difficult tasks
• Manage time and resources to accomplish goals
• Recognize their own strengths and growth
• Advocate for themselves

Ideas for Discussing Goal-Directedness and Resiliency at Home

Pay attention to when you utilize goal-directed and resilient skills in different situations throughout your day. Try to regularly share these examples with your student and explain how you used specific goal-directed and resilient skills to help navigate scenarios. Over time, you might share examples of how you used skills well and opportunities for you to grow, too. Sharing your stories will help model the skills, demonstrate the importance of reflection, and build understanding of how skills can be used in and beyond school.

You might ask your student questions such as:

• Why is it important to identify challenges and work to overcome them?
• If you want to ___, what’s a goal you might make? What could be your plan to meet the goal?
• How might you take responsibility for your actions, completing work, mistakes, etc?
• How might you take responsibility for
• your actions?
• completing work?
• mistakes?
• From the mistake ___, what did you learn?
• How can you be a good goal-directed and resilient individual when you are ___ (ex: trying something new; making choices about how to spend your time; in need of help)?
• What do you want to remember to be a goal-directed and resilient individual tomorrow?

Superintendent to Present FY 2025 Proposed Budget

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid will present the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Proposed Budget at the School Board meeting on Thursday, February 8, at 7:30 p.m. Dr. Reid’s presentation, as well as other budget documents, will be available after she presents to the board. 

View the meeting on FCPS Cable TV Channel 99 (Verizon Channel 11), the FCPS YouTube Channel, or the FCPS website. To watch School Board meetings dubbed in Spanish, please visit the FCPS en Español YouTube channel.

If you would like language interpretation or American Sign Language support for any School Board meeting, please contact the board clerk. Find your School Board member and how to contact them on the School Board Members webpage.

Spanish:La Superintendente presentará el Presupuesto Propuesto para el Año Fiscal 2025

Superintendente Dra. Michelle Reid presentará el Presupuesto Propuesto para el Año Fiscal (AF) 2025 en la reunión de la Junta Escolar el jueves, 8 de febrero, a las 7:30 p.m. La presentación de la Dra. Reid, así como otros documentos del presupuesto, estarán disponibles después de su presentación a la Junta Escolar. 

Vea la reunión en FCPS Cable TV Canal 99 (Verizon Canal 11), el Canal de FCPS YouTube, o el sitio web de FCPS. Para ver las reuniones de la Junta Escolar traducidas al español, por favor visite el canal de FCPS en Español en YouTube.

Si necesita interpretación o apoyo de Lenguaje de Señas Americano para cualquier reunión de la Junta Escolar, por favor comuníquese con el secretario de la junta. Encuentre a su miembro de la Junta Escolar y cómo contactarlos en la página web de Miembros de la Junta Escolar.

Arrival/Dismissal Safety Reminders for Westgate

Please remember to be mindful of our important safety procedures during arrival and dismissal.  

• There are NO left hand turns allowed in, or out of, Kiss & Ride during arrival or dismissal.  
• There are NO illegal u-turns allowed in front of the school on Magarity Road.  Please enter kiss and ride from the correct side (towards rt. 7) and follow the traffic pattern, as we've witnessed both student and staff safety being compromised too often. 
• Please ONLY cross your child at the dedicated cross walk (with police officer).  Crossing you children at any other location is not safe.
• There is NO parking on either side of Magarity Rd. right in front of the school.  Please do not park in these areas.
• Cars are not permitted in the bus loop between 8:20 - 9:00 a.m. and between 3:00 - 3:40 p.m.  

Our number one priority at Westgate remains student safety.  Thank you for adhering to these very important safety reminders.  Please note that the Fairfax County Police Department will be closely monitoring this situation.

🚍 Here Comes the Bus

Want to know if your child's bus is on schedule or where the bus is? Here Comes the Bus® is an easy-to-use website and app that enables parents to see the location of their child’s school bus — almost in real time — on a smartphone, tablet, or personal computer. 

Parents can track multiple buses if their children don’t all ride the same bus; know exactly when children arrive at school or the bus stop; and receive customized text and/or email notifications about bus locations, schedule changes, or delays.

To get started, download the app from the Apple iOS or Android app store. Check out the Here Comes the Bus and Frequently Asked Questions webpages for more information.

Already using the Here Comes the Bus app? Send your feedback to [email protected].  

Note: eNotify text messaging will continue to be used for reporting bus delays and bus incidents.

Spanish:🚍 Here Comes the Bus (Ahí Viene el Autobús)

¿Quiere saber si el autobús de su hijo llegará a tiempo o dónde está? Here Comes the Bus® es un sitio web y una aplicación fáciles de usar que permiten que los padres vean la ubicación del autobús escolar de sus hijos -casi en tiempo real- en un smartphone, una tableta o un ordenador personal.  

Los padres pueden ver la ubicación de varios autobuses en caso de que sus hijos no viajen todos en el mismo autobús; saber exactamente cuándo llegan los niños a la escuela o a la parada de autobús; y recibir notificaciones personalizadas por mensaje de texto y/o correo electrónico sobre la ubicación de los autobuses, los cambios de horario o los retrasos.

Para comenzar, baje la aplicación de la tienda de aplicaciones de Apple iOS o Android. Consulte las páginas web Here Comes The Bus y Preguntas Frecuentes para obtener más información.

¿Ya utiliza la aplicación Here Comes the Bus? Envíen sus comentarios a [email protected].  

Aviso: La mensajería de texto eNotify seguirá utilizándose para informar de retrasos e incidencias en los autobuses.

🗺️ Dual Language Immersion Program Registration

Registration for the countywide lottery for Dual Language Immersion (DLI) programs will open on Monday, January 22. Current pre-K students may apply for the kindergarten immersion program, and current kindergarten students may apply for the first grade immersion programs for the 2024-25 school year. Programs are available in French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. 

Parents/caregivers who are interested may want to attend an informational meeting. Meetings are held at the school site. Check the FCPS events calendar for the most current information. Meetings will begin on Tuesday, January 16. 

A virtual meeting hosted by the World Languages Office will include general program information. Access to this virtual meeting will be made available on the FCPS events calendar and the Dual Language Immersion registration site on the day of the meeting.

Get more information on the immersion program webpage and registration page.

🗺️ Inscripción para el Programa de Inmersión en Dos Idiomas

La inscripción para la lotería en todo el condado para los programas de Inmersión en Dos Idiomas (DLI) se abrirá el lunes 22 de enero. 

Los estudiantes actuales de pre-K pueden aplicar para el programa de inmersión de kindergarten, y los estudiantes actuales de kindergarten pueden aplicar para los programas de inmersión de primer grado para el año escolar 2024-25. Los programas están disponibles en francés, alemán, japonés, coreano y español. 

Los padres/cuidadores que estén interesados pueden asistir a una reunión informativa. Las reuniones se llevan a cabo en la escuela. Revise el calendario de eventos de FCPS para información más actualizada. Las reuniones comenzarán el martes, 16 de enero. 

Una reunión virtual organizada por la Oficina de Idiomas Mundiales incluirá información general del programa. El acceso a esta reunión virtual estará disponible en el calendario de eventos de FCPS y en el sitio de inscripción de Inmersión en Dos Idiomas el día de la reunión.

Obtenga más información en la página web del programa de inmersión y en la página de inscripción.

Magnet School Application and Lottery Information

The Magnet Program registration window will be open from Tuesday, March 5, through Friday, April 12, 2024.  No late applications are accepted.

To learn more about the programs and the registration process, families are encouraged to attend one of the Parent Information Nights:

• Bailey’s Upper, February 6, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. (Virtual only)
• Hunters Woods Elementary, February 12, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. (In-person)
• Snow date: February 26, 2024 at 5:30 p.m.
• Bailey’s Primary, February 13, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. (In-person)
• Snow date: February 21, 2024 at 6:00 p.m

Learn more about the FCPS Magnet Programs here.  

❄️ Preparing for Winter Weather

Winter weather will be here before you know it! Watch this video to see how weather-related closing decisions are made.

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.

Join the PTA Today! 

Our PTA is amazing and we would love you to join and be part of this great community of Westgate families! Signing up is easy and you can help us reach our membership goal by signing up today! You can sign up here.

SIS ParentVue

Access your student’s attendance records, grades, and assignments at any time with SIS ParentVUE. Caregivers should receive an activation code when they register their child. 

Once you have activated a ParentVUE account for an FCPS student, you will keep the same account until the student graduates. Information about students in the same family can be accessed through the same ParentVUE account. Access SIS ParentVUE by using an app on your iPhone, iPad, or Android devices. 

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

Multilingual Parent Information Line

☎️ Parent Information Phone Line 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. También pueden obtener apoyo para comunicarse con la escuela de su hijo. Vea la lista de números de teléfono.

Zones of Regulation 

This year we are excited to have implemented the program, Zones of Regulation at Westgate school wide.  This program teaches students how to name their emotions and build strategies to help manage them.  Emotions are categorized by blue, green, yellow, and red and each color represents a state of alertness.  The green zone is the calmest and a place where we are ready to learn.  You can find out more by clicking this here (English) or here (Spanish).

Free, On-Demand, Online Tutoring

Does your child need homework help or feedback on their writing? How about a practice quiz to get ready for a test?  FCPS students who’ve used Tutor.com have provided positive feedback:

• “This tutor was very helpful! She didn't tell me the answers. When needed, she helped me solve them! She was very kind and she really helped me!” –Elementary Math Student
• “This was an awesome tutor! She explained why I needed to do specific steps, and she gave me practice problems! Best tutor I have had!” –IB Chemistry Student

Unless they’ve been opted out, students can access Tutor.com through Schoology. Every session is personalized to meet students’ needs from remedial to advanced levels. Sessions focus on conceptual learning and critical thinking—not quick answers.

Learn more on FCPS’ Tutor.com webpage.

February 

11 - PTA MOD Pizza Fundraiser

19 - No School for Students - Presidents' Day

March

12 - PTA Meeting @ 6:30 p.m. 

16 - PTA Bingo Night @ 6:00 p.m.

25 - 29 - No School for Students/Staff - Spring Break

April

1 - No School for Students - Teacher Workday

2 - No School for Students - Teacher PD Day

3 - Kindergarten Orientation 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.

19 - PTA Staff Volleyball Game @ Marshall HS

7500 Magarity Rd, Falls Church, VA 22043  | Main Office: 703.610.5700

Attendance: 703.610.5757 | Web | Twitter

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Good Morning Westgate Families,

I hope this finds you having a wonderful week.  It is hard to believe that we have already started the third quarter of the school year.

Thank you to our PTA, Ally Gilmore, and all of our families that attended our "Be Internet Awesome" event last week.  It was great information on how both students and parents can stay safe online.  

As a reminder, our PTA after school enrichment classes started this week.  Please make sure your child knows what day they may be participating in an after school class.

As always, thank you for your continued support of all things Westgate and have a fantastic week ahead!

All my best,

Hallie Demetriades

Principal 

Westgate's Portrait of a Graduate Spirit Week - January 29 - February 2 Girls on the Run is Back @ Westgate!

Girls on the Run (GOTR) is coming back to Westgate this spring! GOTR has fun, evidence-based programs that inspire girls in 3rd-8th grade to build their confidence, kindness, and decision-making skills. Dynamic lessons instill valuable life skills including the important connection between physical and emotional health. Starting the week of March 4th, the team will meet every Tuesday and Thursday from 3:30 to 5pm. The program culminates in a celebratory 5K at the end of the season! The standard program fee is $185 and includes 20 lessons/practices, a t-shirt, GOTR giveaway, entry into the 5K, a 5K medal, and more. Financial assistance is available for anyone who needs it, with the lowest program registration cost being $22 for the season. Registration for the spring 2024 program is open February 5-27, and the season will run from the week of March 4 through May 19. Please register at www.gotrnova.org.

For more information, go to the Girls on the Run of NOVA website (www.gotrnova.org) or contact the Westgate GOTR team’s head coach, Naveed Khan at [email protected].

Registro está abierto ahora para el programa de Girls on the Run a Westgate. Usando un currículo que se integra creativamente actividad física con lecciones de vida, Girls on the Run empodera a las chicas para que desarrollen la confianza y el carácter que necesitan convertirse adultas jóvenes fuertes y saludables. Comienza la semana de March 4th, el equipo encontrará cada martes and jueves de 3:30 to 5pm. Registro para el programa de primavera de 2024 está abierta del 5-27 de febrero, y la temporada se extenderá del 4 de marzo al 19 de mayo. El precio estándar del programa es $185, pero ofrecemos descuentos de militar y hermanas, tanto como asistencia financiera para familias que califiquen también. 

Para más información, va al sitio web de Girls on the Run of NOVA (www.gotrnova.org) o contacta la entrenadora del equipo de Girls on the Run, Naveed Khan, a [email protected].

Portrait of a Graduate - Ethical and Global Citizens

One of the Portrait of a Graduate attributes we focus on is being an ethical and global citizen. As students grow as ethical and global citizens, they can act responsibly, recognize and appreciate the similarities and differences among people and their cultures, and care for their community and environment.

Ethical and Global Citizens:

• Acknowledge and understand diverse perspectives and cultures
• Help their community
• Consider impact on the environment
• Understand the foundations of our country and value our rights, privileges, and responsibilities
• Act responsibly and ethically
• Communicate effectively in multiple languages

Ideas for Discussing Global and Ethical Citizenship at Home

Pay attention to when you use ethical and global citizenship skills throughout your day.  Try to regularly share these examples with your student. Explain how you used specific ethical and global citizenship skills to work through scenarios. Over time, you might share examples of how you used skills well and opportunities for you to grow, too. Sharing your stories will help build understanding of how skills can be used in and beyond school and why these skills are important.

You might ask your student questions such as:

• How were you kind to others?
• What was a choice you made today? What was the impact? What do you want to remember about it?
• When did you notice someone or something that needed help today? What did you do?
• How did you try to understand how a friend was feeling today?
• How were you kind to others?
• What do you want to learn about parts of the world or cultures that you don’t know about yet?
• How can you be a good ethical and global citizen when you are ____ (ex: in the cafeteria; seeing an injustice; outside; noticing someone seems left out)?
• What do you want to remember to be a good ethical and global citizen tomorrow?

Arrival/Dismissal Safety Reminders for Westgate

Please remember to be mindful of our important safety procedures during arrival and dismissal.  

• There are NO left hand turns allowed in, or out of, Kiss & Ride during arrival or dismissal.  
• There are NO illegal u-turns allowed in front of the school on Magarity Road.  Please enter kiss and ride from the correct side (towards rt. 7) and follow the traffic pattern, as we've witnessed both student and staff safety being compromised too often. 
• Please ONLY cross your child at the dedicated cross walk (with police officer).  Crossing you children at any other location is not safe.
• There is NO parking on either side of Magarity Rd. right in front of the school.  Please do not park in these areas.
• Cars are not permitted in the bus loop between 8:20 - 9:00 a.m. and between 3:00 - 3:40 p.m.  

Our number one priority at Westgate remains student safety.  Thank you for adhering to these very important safety reminders.  Please note that the Fairfax County Police Department will be closely monitoring this situation.

🗺️ Dual Language Immersion Program Registration

Registration for the countywide lottery for Dual Language Immersion (DLI) programs will open on Monday, January 22. Current pre-K students may apply for the kindergarten immersion program, and current kindergarten students may apply for the first grade immersion programs for the 2024-25 school year. Programs are available in French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. 

Parents/caregivers who are interested may want to attend an informational meeting. Meetings are held at the school site. Check the FCPS events calendar for the most current information. Meetings will begin on Tuesday, January 16. 

A virtual meeting hosted by the World Languages Office will include general program information. Access to this virtual meeting will be made available on the FCPS events calendar and the Dual Language Immersion registration site on the day of the meeting.

Get more information on the immersion program webpage and registration page.

🗺️ Inscripción para el Programa de Inmersión en Dos Idiomas

La inscripción para la lotería en todo el condado para los programas de Inmersión en Dos Idiomas (DLI) se abrirá el lunes 22 de enero. 

Los estudiantes actuales de pre-K pueden aplicar para el programa de inmersión de kindergarten, y los estudiantes actuales de kindergarten pueden aplicar para los programas de inmersión de primer grado para el año escolar 2024-25. Los programas están disponibles en francés, alemán, japonés, coreano y español. 

Los padres/cuidadores que estén interesados pueden asistir a una reunión informativa. Las reuniones se llevan a cabo en la escuela. Revise el calendario de eventos de FCPS para información más actualizada. Las reuniones comenzarán el martes, 16 de enero. 

Una reunión virtual organizada por la Oficina de Idiomas Mundiales incluirá información general del programa. El acceso a esta reunión virtual estará disponible en el calendario de eventos de FCPS y en el sitio de inscripción de Inmersión en Dos Idiomas el día de la reunión.

Obtenga más información en la página web del programa de inmersión y en la página de inscripción.

Magnet School Application and Lottery Information

The Magnet Program registration window will be open from Tuesday, March 5, through Friday, April 12, 2024.  No late applications are accepted.

To learn more about the programs and the registration process, families are encouraged to attend one of the Parent Information Nights:

• Bailey’s Upper, February 6, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. (Virtual only)
• Hunters Woods Elementary, February 12, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. (In-person)
• Snow date: February 26, 2024 at 5:30 p.m.
• Bailey’s Primary, February 13, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. (In-person)
• Snow date: February 21, 2024 at 6:00 p.m

Learn more about the FCPS Magnet Programs here.  

❄️ Preparing for Winter Weather

Winter weather will be here before you know it! Watch this video to see how weather-related closing decisions are made.

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.

Join the PTA Today! 

Our PTA is amazing and we would love you to join and be part of this great community of Westgate families! Signing up is easy and you can help us reach our membership goal by signing up today! You can sign up here.

SIS ParentVue

Access your student’s attendance records, grades, and assignments at any time with SIS ParentVUE. Caregivers should receive an activation code when they register their child. 

Once you have activated a ParentVUE account for an FCPS student, you will keep the same account until the student graduates. Information about students in the same family can be accessed through the same ParentVUE account. Access SIS ParentVUE by using an app on your iPhone, iPad, or Android devices. 

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

Multilingual Parent Information Line

☎️ Parent Information Phone Line 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. También pueden obtener apoyo para comunicarse con la escuela de su hijo. Vea la lista de números de teléfono.

Zones of Regulation 

This year we are excited to have implemented the program, Zones of Regulation at Westgate school wide.  This program teaches students how to name their emotions and build strategies to help manage them.  Emotions are categorized by blue, green, yellow, and red and each color represents a state of alertness.  The green zone is the calmest and a place where we are ready to learn.  You can find out more by clicking this here (English) or here (Spanish).

Free, On-Demand, Online Tutoring

Does your child need homework help or feedback on their writing? How about a practice quiz to get ready for a test?  FCPS students who’ve used Tutor.com have provided positive feedback:

• “This tutor was very helpful! She didn't tell me the answers. When needed, she helped me solve them! She was very kind and she really helped me!” –Elementary Math Student
• “This was an awesome tutor! She explained why I needed to do specific steps, and she gave me practice problems! Best tutor I have had!” –IB Chemistry Student

Unless they’ve been opted out, students can access Tutor.com through Schoology. Every session is personalized to meet students’ needs from remedial to advanced levels. Sessions focus on conceptual learning and critical thinking—not quick answers.

Learn more on FCPS’ Tutor.com webpage.

February 

2 - Westgate Career Day

19 - No School for Students - Presidents' Day

March

12 - PTA Meeting @ 6:30 p.m. 

16 - PTA Bingo Night @ 6:00 p.m.

25 - 29 - No School for Students/Staff - Spring Break

April

1 - No School for Students - Teacher Workday

2 - No School for Students - Teacher PD Day

3 - Kindergarten Orientation 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.

19 - PTA Staff Volleyball Game @ Marshall HS

7500 Magarity Rd, Falls Church, VA 22043  | Main Office: 703.610.5700

Attendance: 703.610.5757 | Web | Twitter