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Monday, January 13, 2025

Lancers,

I hope that everyone had a great winter break. I also hope you had a chance to enjoy our snow days last week! I would like to take this opportunity to thank Ms. Rubenia Alvarez and our amazing custodial team for all of their hard work last week clearing snow from our campus. We have an amazing and dedicated team of custodians that ensures our campus is always top notch!

It is hard to believe that we are already planning for next year. Please see information below regarding upcoming academic advising and curriculum nights for both LMS and also McLean HS.

As always, please feel free to reach out directly if you have any questions.

Jim

Jim Patrick
Principal
Longfellow MS

Congratulations, Zafyr Rahman!

This weekend, Zafyr, 7th grader, placed third in the International Academic Competition’s Regional Geography Bee! This qualifies him for both the National Competition in Orlando and secures him a spot in the 2026 International Competition.

 

UPCOMING EVENTS

Schedule for the next two weeks:

IMPORTANT INFORMATION Rising 9th Grade Academic Advising

Rising 9th grade students attended Academic Advising Overview sessions with McLean, Marshall, & Langley HS counselors via science classes today. Starting January 14th, our 8th grade counselors will conduct individual meetings with each rising 9th grade student about course offerings and how to maximize academic success. Students are encouraged to make course selections by March 7, 2025.

Rising 8th Grade Academic Advising

On February 13th & 14th, our counselors will be visiting your student’s English class to give an Academic Advising overview of course offerings and electives for their 8th grade year. Starting on February 18th, our 7th grade counselors will conduct individual meetings with each rising 8th grade student. Course selections are due in StudentVue March 7, 2025.

Course Selections - Students will be making their course selections in StudentVue. When counselors visit the classes, they will be walking your student through the process for making these selections. Information has been posted on the website on how to request course selections in StudentVue.

Advising Website - Our website is the main hub of information. There you will find our course catalog, videos/presentations about each of our core departments and electives.
Please reach out to your student’s counselor if you have any questions.

AFTER SCHOOL CORNER The Third Quarter After-School Schedule will be posted soon! New - Tough it out Thursdays! Starting on February 6th.

Attention 8th graders: Are you looking for a way to get stronger, faster, and more coordinated? Then come join us on Thursdays, starting February 6th, during the first block (2:25-3:25) in the weight room in GYM 1. Did you know that weight training helps you build muscle, improves your balance, and prevents injuries? Lifting weights can also boost your confidence and make you feel awesome! Whether you play basketball, soccer, or any other sport, lifting weights can increase your speed, power, and agility. Stronger muscles and better coordination mean you're less likely to get hurt during sports or everyday activities. See Ms. Shapiro if you have any questions!

We have 20 spots and will be holding a lottery. If you are interested, fill out this google form.

PARENT INFORMATION Rising 7th Grade Curriculum Night - January 15, 2025

Longfellow Middle School is excited to invite you to our Rising 7th Grade Curriculum Night on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

This event will provide valuable information about Longfellow Middle School and the transition to middle school. Families will have the opportunity to hear from core and elective teachers as they highlight their engaging classes. Students and staff will also be available to answer any questions.

If inclement weather occurs, the event will be rescheduled for Tuesday, January 21, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

We look forward to welcoming you to Longfellow!

McLean High School Rising 9th Grade Curriculum Night-January 14, 2025

McLean High School will be holding a Curriculum Night for parents of the class of 2029 (current 8th grade students) at McLean HS on Tuesday, January 14th at 6:00pm in the auditorium. The evening session aims to provide parents with information that will help their incoming 9th grade student with the transition to high school. Topics include getting involved with extracurricular activities, graduation requirements, and the registration process for 9th grade courses. We will also have a panel of core teachers sharing information on their content areas. Following the presentation, teachers from various departments will be available to answer questions about 9th grade classes until 7:30pm.

Snow Date: Monday, January 27th @ 6:00pm in the auditorium

2025 STEM Essay Contest

Women have not always been recognized for their contributions in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). The McLean Area Branch is sponsoring its seventh annual STEM Essay Contest in 2025 to challenge 7th and 8th grade students, girls and boys, to discover and publicize women who made a difference in STEM fields, but who did not receive recognition for their contributions while alive. Strong preference is given to essays about women who are not well known even today.

For this contest, the student is asked to describe one woman’s STEM contribution and its impact, as well as why the student selected the woman.

Essay Guidelines:
- Essays must be no more than 500 words and include a bibliography with 2-5 sources (not part of the 500 words).
- Please follow the MLA style for formatting entries in the bibliography; multiple online sources describe the MLA format.
- Do not include photos or graphics.
- Essays will be judged for:
     • effectiveness in addressing the theme ((a) description of the contribution, (b) its impact, and (c) your reason for selecting the woman),
     • writing style (including organization, clarity, accuracy, originality in style, and word choice), and
     • mechanics (including punctuation, grammar, spelling, and style of bibliography).
- Essays must be the original work of the student. If an essay is found to have any indication of plagiarism or contains factual errors, it will not eligible for an award.
- Students entering the contest must attend one of the following schools: Cooper, Longfellow, Poe, Luther Jackson, The Langley School, St. John Academy, The Potomac School, St. Luke Catholic School, or BASIS Independent McLean.
- See our “Tips” page here.

An application form can be picked up from the main office or downloaded here:
In fillable PDF format: 2025 STEM Essay Contest Application-PDF-Fillable

The deadline for submitting applications is Monday, February 10, 2025, at 11:00 pm EST. No late submissions will be accepted. Only one essay per student is permitted. ALL STUDENTS SHOULD EMAIL THEIR APPLICATIONS TO [email protected]. TO FINISH THE PROCESS, EACH STUDENT SHOULD CHECK THAT HE OR SHE HAS RECEIVED A RETURN EMAIL VERIFYING THAT A COMPLETE APPLICATION HAS BEEN SUBMITTED.

NOTE: All students should check that they have submitted a file that is filled in (NOT BLANK) and is in either a readable PDF or Word format.

Essay Prizes
-First Place $100 and Honorable Mention (4 Prizes) $25
-Winners will be notified by email.
-The student awarded First Place must be able to attend the AAUW McLean Area Branch Event on the evening of Tuesday, March 18, 2025, to receive the award and will be invited to read his or her essay at the dinner. All winners will be invited to the dinner.

Any questions about the STEM Essay Contest may be sent to Judy Page, STEM Chair, at [email protected].

2000 Westmoreland Street, Falls Church, VA 22043  | Main Office: 703-533-2600
Attendance: 703-533-2626 | Web | Twitter

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Thursday, January 9, 2025 UPCOMING EVENTS

Schedule for the next two weeks:

IMPORTANT INFORMATION Rising 9th Grade Academic Advising

Rising 9th grade students will attend Academic Advising Overview sessions with McLean, Marshall, & Langley HS counselors via science classes on Monday, 1/13. Students should bring their laptops to class fully charged. Starting January 14th, our 8th grade counselors will conduct individual meetings with each rising 9th grade student about course offerings and how to maximize academic success. Students are encouraged to make course selections by March 7, 2025.

Rising 8th Grade Academic Advising

On February 13th & 14th, our counselors will be visiting your student’s English class to give an Academic Advising overview of course offerings and electives for their 8th grade year. Starting on February 18th, our 7th grade counselors will conduct individual meetings with each rising 8th grade student. Course selections are due in StudentVue March 7, 2025.

Course Selections - Students will be making their course selections in StudentVue. When counselors visit the classes, they will be walking your student through the process for making these selections. Information has been posted on the website on how to request course selections in StudentVue.

Advising Website - Our website is the main hub of information. There you will find our course catalog, videos/presentations about each of our core departments and electives.
Please reach out to your student’s counselor if you have any questions.

Recess during the Winter Months

Just a friendly reminder that our school has a 15-minute recess each day. We do have indoor activities for inclement weather, but we do want to have our students outdoors as much as we are able. Please remind your children to bring winter gear (jackets, hats, gloves, etc.) in order to be prepared for the seasonal weather.

PARENT INFORMATION Rising 7th Grade Curriculum Night - January 15, 2025

Longfellow Middle School is excited to invite you to our Rising 7th Grade Curriculum Night on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

This event will provide valuable information about Longfellow Middle School and the transition to middle school. Families will have the opportunity to hear from core and elective teachers as they highlight their engaging classes. Students and staff will also be available to answer any questions.

If inclement weather occurs, the event will be rescheduled for Tuesday, January 21, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

We look forward to welcoming you to Longfellow!

McLean High School Rising 9th Grade Curriculum Night-January 14, 2025

McLean High School will be holding a Curriculum Night for parents of the class of 2029 (current 8th grade students) at McLean HS on Tuesday, January 14th at 6:00pm in the auditorium. The evening session aims to provide parents with information that will help their incoming 9th grade student with the transition to high school. Topics include getting involved with extracurricular activities, graduation requirements, and the registration process for 9th grade courses. We will also have a panel of core teachers sharing information on their content areas. Following the presentation, teachers from various departments will be available to answer questions about 9th grade classes until 7:30pm.

Snow Date: Monday, January 27th @ 6:00pm in the auditorium

Langley High School Open House

On Sunday, January 26th, from 2-4pm, Langley High School is hosting an Open House. Eighth-grade students and their families are invited to attend the information session presented by administrators, tour the building with student ambassadors, and chat with experienced parents and faculty. Interested families should RSVP to Assistant Principal Jim Robertson using the link below by January 10th, 2025:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf187CHF_VZf48GjQWJ_zS4O3eU-MPnWN2FxRF2-rp_rZUqVw/viewform?usp=sf_link

Who: 8th-grade students and their families in the Langley & McLean Pyramids
What: Langley High School Open House
Where: Langley HS Auditorium, park in the main lot and enter through door #14
When: Sunday, January 26th 2025, 2-4pm

2000 Westmoreland Street, Falls Church, VA 22043  | Main Office: 703-533-2600
Attendance: 703-533-2626 | Web | Twitter

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Monday, December 16, 2024

Lancers,

It is our final week before Winter Break, and there is a lot of activity here at Longfellow. We have our 7th and 8th grade team celebrations this week. This is our quarterly opportunity for our interdisciplinary teams to gather and participate in different activities to include team building exercises, games, and service-learning projects.

I would like to thank our SCA for running the canned food drive this month through our third period classes. We collected over 325 cans that will be donated to SHARE of McLean. Our 3rd period classes that collected the most cans were: Ms. Haley (127), Ms. Huftalen/Mr. Tosto (87), Ms. Robison (68). Thank you to all of our families for donating to help our community.

As always, please feel free to reach out to me with any questions or concerns.

Jim

Jim Patrick
Principal
Longfellow MS

 

UPCOMING EVENTS

Schedule for the next two weeks:

IMPORTANT INFORMATION Recess during the Winter Months

Just a friendly reminder that our school has a 15-minute recess each day. We do have indoor activities for inclement weather, but we do want to have our students outdoors as much as we are able. Please remind your children to bring winter gear (jackets, hats, gloves, etc.) in order to be prepared for the seasonal weather.

AFTER SCHOOL CORNER

There are no after school activities this Friday, December 20, 2024.

PARENT INFORMATION Rising 7th Grade Curriculum Night - January 15, 2025

Longfellow Middle School is excited to invite you to our Rising 7th Grade Curriculum Night on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
This event will provide valuable information about Longfellow Middle School and the transition to middle school. Families will have the opportunity to hear from core and elective teachers as they highlight their engaging classes. Students and staff will also be available to answer any questions.

If inclement weather occurs, the event will be rescheduled for Thursday, January 23, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

We look forward to welcoming you to Longfellow!

1/14/2025 McLean High School Rising 9th Grade Curriculum Night

McLean High School will be holding a Curriculum Night for parents of the class of 2029 (current 8th grade students) at McLean HS on Tuesday, January 14th at 6:00pm in the auditorium. The evening session aims to provide parents with information that will help their incoming 9th grade student with the transition to high school. Topics include getting involved with extracurricular activities, graduation requirements, and the registration process for 9th grade courses. We will also have a panel of core teachers sharing information on their content areas. Following the presentation, teachers from various departments will be available to answer questions about 9th grade classes until 7:30pm.

Snow Date: Monday, January 27th @ 6:00pm in the auditorium

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• Course Selection for Middle and High School Students
• Join Our Teacher Team!
• Comprehensive Boundary Review Updates

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

⛄Student and Family Resources

Fairfax County Public Schools has compiled a list of resources for students and families in case they need assistance while schools are closed for winter break. Please visit FCPS’ winter resources webpage for information on academic support, mental health support, and county resources related to food, clothing, housing, and other needs.

School’s Closed, Learning Can Continue!

FCPS encourages students to take advantage of fun learning opportunities during winter break and snow days. Consider these winter activities to blend education and play for your students during winter break or weather-related school closures.

🍲 Food Assistance and Resource Guide

Food insecurity impacts more than 96,000 Fairfax County residents. There are many resources available to support those who need food assistance. Learn how to help these families and the many resources available to support those who need food assistance on Fairfax County’s website or view the county’s Human Services Resource Guide.

📚 Bundle Up With Books Over Break

Fairfax County Public Library’s (FCPL) winter reading adventure has begun and will continue through Friday, January 31, 2025. Visit your local FCPL library branch or visit their website to register and get a sneak peek at the prizes being offered.

Check out their Winter Reading Events webpage to learn about laser tag, movie nights, crafting sessions, Noon-Year Eve celebrations, and book discussions.

⛄ Get Outdoors for Winter Fun!

The Fairfax County Park Authority has rounded up its seasonal fun into a handy list of events happening across the county.

Learn more about the Winter Wonderland and the Holiday Train at Burke Lake Park, Holiday on the Farm at Frying Pan Farm Park, and many more fun events.

Langley High School Open House

On Sunday, January 26th, from 2-4pm, Langley High School is hosting an Open House. Eighth-grade students and their families are invited to attend the information session presented by administrators, tour the building with student ambassadors, and chat with experienced parents and faculty. Interested families should RSVP to Assistant Principal Jim Robertson using the link below by January 10th, 2025:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf187CHF_VZf48GjQWJ_zS4O3eU-MPnWN2FxRF2-rp_rZUqVw/viewform?usp=sf_link

Who: 8th-grade students and their families in the Langley & McLean Pyramids
What: Langley High School Open House
Where: Langley HS Auditorium, park in the main lot and enter through door #14
When: Sunday, January 26th 2025, 2-4pm

2000 Westmoreland Street, Falls Church, VA 22043  | Main Office: 703-533-2600
Attendance: 703-533-2626 | Web | Twitter

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Monday, December 9, 2024

Lancers,

This past Friday, we hosted our Winter Dance sponsored by the NJHS and SCA. I would like to thank all of our students, as well as our sponsors for all of their hard work to make the dance happen! Thank you to everyone for coming out last week.

We have a flurry of activity as we approach winter break with our Band and Orchestra concerts, as well as our 7th and 8th grade team celebrations. Here is to a strong finish to the calendar year!

As always, please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.

Jim

Jim Patrick
Principal
Longfellow MS

UPCOMING EVENTS

Schedule for the next two weeks:

IMPORTANT INFORMATION Full-Time AAP Referral Window Reminder for Parents

Parents/guardians of students in Grade 7 who would like their student to be considered for Full-Time advanced academic programs may submit the AAP Full-Time Referral Form to our AART, Dr. Elaina Bafaro no later than December 15, 2024.

The window for families to submit a referral for Full-Time AAP services is the first day of school through December 15,annually. Forms for Full-Time and part-time referrals are available on the AAP Forms Page. No late referrals for Full-Time AAP services will be accepted.

Submitting a referral form for Full-Time AAP will initiate a process that begins at the local school and is then completed at the central office level. Our school will put together a portfolio that includes multiple data which are considered holistically. At the central office level, a committee of six trained professionals from various schools and roles will review the portfolio materials to determine eligibility for Full-Time placement. Eligibility decisions are communicated by early April. Parents may request a copy of the portfolio that was submitted after they have been turned in for central selection by emailing Elaina Bafaro – [email protected].

Referrals for Subject-Specific and Part-Time AAP are screened at the local school. If you miss this deadline, your student can still be screened for Subject-Specific AAP or Part-Time AAP for the remainder of the year and submit a referral for Full-Time AAP next fall.

For more information, please visit the Advanced Academic Programs website.

AFTER SCHOOL CORNER Congratulations Longfellow Science Olympiad! 

Please congratulate the Longfellow Science Olympiad team on their 1st place finish at the Lake Braddock Invitational this past weekend against the most competitive teams in Virginia. The team achieved top-6 placements in 21 of the 23 events (including 1st place in 13 events)!

The team also placed 4th in the Dodgen Invitational in November against 60+ teams and 5th in the Bay Academy Invitational in October against 60+ teams. It's been a lot of work and a ton of fun!!!

The following students are members of the team: Tala A, Vaanya B., Sofia B., Youyi C., Ariana C., Charles C., Benjamin G., Jaejoon H., Myra K., Chaemin K., Michelle K., Noah K., Evan L., Chak L., Mina L., Nathan L., Veronica M., David M., Jolyn N., Emrys O., James P., Miranda S., Neel S., Andrew T., Alex W., Edward W., Ray W., Michael Z., Andrew Z., and Ethan Z.

We are proud of you, Longfellow Science Olympiad!

  Model UN

Model UN had their first conference of the year at George Washington University. All students came prepared and engaged in lively discussions on a multitude of important global issues. Several students also received awards for their strong performance in committee. Ian Boyd, representing David Twiggs in a committee on the Mexican American war, received a verbal commendation. Navya (Na-via) Sahay (Sa-hai), representing Rwanda in the Economic and Social Council, received an honorable mention. Last but certainly not least, Adya (Ah-dee-ya) Sauparn (Saw-pern) and Benjamin Wang, representing India in the Disarmament and International Security Committee, received the outstanding delegate award. Congratulations to Ian, Navya, Adya, Benjamin, and all members of the Model UN team.

PARENT INFORMATION Makeup/Retake Day images @ Longfellow Middle School are now online.

Hello Longfellow Middle School Families,
Retake/Makeup Day images are now online. Families will have received a reminder email to view images from Victor O'Neill Studios.
If you do not see your email, please check the spam folder. If you need help ordering/viewing contact [email protected]

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• Family Academy Orientation
• Literacy Resources
• Winter Programs and Activities

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

🍲 Food Assistance and Resource Guide

Food insecurity impacts more than 96,000 Fairfax County residents. There are many resources available to support those who need food assistance. Learn how to help these families and the many resources available to support those who need food assistance on Fairfax County’s website or view the county’s Human Services Resource Guide.

📚 Bundle Up With Books Over Break

Fairfax County Public Library’s (FCPL) winter reading adventure has begun and will continue through Friday, January 31, 2025. Visit your local FCPL library branch or visit their website to register and get a sneak peek at the prizes being offered.

Check out their Winter Reading Events webpage to learn about laser tag, movie nights, crafting sessions, Noon-Year Eve celebrations, and book discussions.

⛄ Get Outdoors for Winter Fun!

The Fairfax County Park Authority has rounded up its seasonal fun into a handy list of events happening across the county.
Learn more about the Winter Wonderland and the Holiday Train at Burke Lake Park, Holiday on the Farm at Frying Pan Farm Park, and many more fun events.

Langley High School Open House

On Sunday, January 26th, from 2-4pm, Langley High School is hosting an Open House. Eighth-grade students and their families are invited to attend the information session presented by administrators, tour the building with student ambassadors, and chat with experienced parents and faculty. Interested families should RSVP to Assistant Principal Jim Robertson using the link below by January 10th, 2025:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf187CHF_VZf48GjQWJ_zS4O3eU-MPnWN2FxRF2-rp_rZUqVw/viewform?usp=sf_link

Who: 8th-grade students and their families in the Langley & McLean Pyramids
What: Langley High School Open House
Where: Langley HS Auditorium, park in the main lot and enter through door #14
When: Sunday, January 26th 2025, 2-4pm

2000 Westmoreland Street, Falls Church, VA 22043  | Main Office: 703-533-2600
Attendance: 703-533-2626 | Web | Twitter

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Join us for our Winter Dance - Don't Miss Out! Today is the last day to purchase tickets. Tickets are available on MySchoolBucks. 

When: December 6, 2024
Where: LMS Lecture Hall
Time: 6p.m. – 8p.m.
Cost: $5 on MySchoolBucks
You don’t want to miss out on this fun event – live DJ, winter themed.
Pizza, snacks and hot cocoa will be available to purchase.

2000 Westmoreland Street, Falls Church, VA 22043  | Main Office: 703-533-2600
Attendance: 703-533-2626 | Web | Twitter

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

Join us for our Winter Dance - Tickets are on sale now! Last day to purchase tickets is tomorrow, Thursday, December 5th.

When: December 6, 2024
Where: LMS Lecture Hall
Time: 6p.m. – 8p.m.
Cost: $5 on MySchoolBucks
You don’t want to miss out on this fun event – live DJ, winter themed.
Pizza, snacks and hot cocoa will be available to purchase.

2000 Westmoreland Street, Falls Church, VA 22043  | Main Office: 703-533-2600
Attendance: 703-533-2626 | Web | Twitter

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

Monday, December 2, 2024 UPCOMING EVENTS

Schedule for the next two weeks:

DETAILS ON UPCOMING EVENTS

Join us for our Winter Dance- Tickets are on sale now! Last day to purchase tickets is this Thursday.
When: December 6, 2024
Where: LMS Lecture Hall
Time: 6p.m. – 8p.m.
Cost: $5 on MySchoolBucks
You don’t want to miss out on this fun event – live DJ, winter themed.
Pizza, snacks and hot cocoa will be available to purchase.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION SEL Screener Results

Social and Emotional Learning Screener Results Coming Soon
One of the ways FCPS supports the mental wellness of all students is through the Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener. In October, students in grades 3-12 took this screener, which gives information about their skills such as achieving goals, handling emotions, building relationships with adults and peers, and making good choices.

The screener also helps students evaluate their school community’s efforts to make them feel valued, included, and supported. Screener data is used to create learning, experiences, and environments for students to succeed.

In early December, families will be able to view student SEL Screener results in SIS ParentVUE. For families who do not have an active ParentVUE account, results will be sent by mail.
Learn more about the screener on the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage. For help understanding your child’s results or ideas to support them at home, review the Family Guide or contact us.

Register for ParentVUE
Learn how to activate your ParentVUE account, so you can easily access your child’s results and other helpful information.

Winter Weather
❄️ 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 to find out about emergency weather closings. 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. Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE, bookmark the FCPS website, and arrange for childcare if needed.

Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

We will monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories which may prevent children from being outside. Make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy their time outdoors. See the National Weather Service’s tips on staying safe during cold weather.

If you need assistance supplying your child with cold-weather clothing, please call Fairfax County's Coordinated Services Planning at 703-222-0880. Their multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health care.

Return Your Federal Impact Aid Survey

FCPS is asking all families to fill out a Federal Impact Aid Survey. The form is available in SIS ParentVUE under Online Packets (in the upper right corner after logging in). Please complete it as soon as possible.

For any families who have not completed the survey in ParentVUE, we will provide paper forms starting Wednesday, November 13. Paper forms should be returned by Wednesday, December 4.

Completing this form for each school-aged child in every household is important. Information from this survey resulted in more than $4 million in funding last year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

For more information, please watch this video on Impact Aid and visit the Federal Impact Aid Survey page.

Need to Register for ParentVUE?
Learn how to activate your SIS ParentVUE account, so you can easily submit your survey.

Technical support for using ParentVUE or completing the survey online is available by submitting a Parent Support Request ticket. Select SISParent in the Application dropdown menu and type Federal Impact Aid Survey under Issue Description. Or, call the Parent Technology Help Desk at 833-921-3277 (833-921-FCPS).

Longfellow Love

At Longfellow Middle School we have many students who live at, or below, the poverty level. Their families welcome our help with expenses such as school supplies and holiday meals. Longfellow Love is a student assistance program that supports Longfellow students in need through donations from families like you, as well as contributions from local businesses. The contributions and gift cards are then anonymously distributed directly to the families in need through the counseling system. In years past, we have only supported families during the holiday season, however, with the rising cost of food, we would like to provide gift cards to families for Thanksgiving as well as the holidays. This year, our fellow student families need our help more than ever! Click HERE to sign up to donate gift cards from Lidl and Walmart to Longfellow families who need our help during the upcoming season!

There are two ways you can purchase gift cards:
1. Go to Lidl and/or Walmart and purchase gift cards in person. Drop them off at the front office in an envelope addressed to Juanita Baptiste.
2. Go online to Walmart eGift Card, choose your amount, purchase an ecard, and email it to Juanita at [email protected]

Donated Gift Cards can be mailed, dropped off, or emailed to:
Juanita Baptiste
Longfellow Middle School
2000 Westmoreland Street
Falls Church, VA 22043
[email protected]

Gift cards for the holiday are needed by Monday, December 16th!!
Let's show our Lancer family some LOVE this holiday season! Thank you for your support!

Questions? Contact Longfellow Love chair, Michele Core at [email protected]

AFTER SCHOOL CORNER Schedule

Our 2nd Quarter after-school schedule can be found here.

After-School Office Staff

Staff are available in the main office until the last late bus departs. If you have any questions after 5pm., you may contact Transportation at 703.249.7100 or Safety and Security at 571.423.2000.

2000 Westmoreland Street, Falls Church, VA 22043  | Main Office: 703-533-2600
Attendance: 703-533-2626 | Web | Twitter

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Monday, November 25, 2024

Lancers-

As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, it is a time to reflect and give thanks. I would like to express my sincere appreciation to your entire community. I am reminded daily of just how special it is to be a Longfellow Lancer. Thank you for your support! I hope that you are able to have some time to relax and reconnect with family and friends. I hope you all have a safe Thanksgiving break.

Jim

Jim Patrick
Principal
Longfellow Middle School

UPCOMING EVENTS

Schedule for the next two weeks:

DETAILS ON UPCOMING EVENTS Retake & Makeup Picture Day @ Longfellow Middle School
Monday, December 2, 2024

During all lunches in the cafeteria (stage, behind the curtain)
Anyone who has not ordered can still preorder retake photos using this link: https://vando.imagequix.com/g1001133192#login

Winter Dance

Join us for our Winter Dance- Tickets are on sale now!
When: December 6, 2024
Where: LMS Lecture Hall
Time: 6p.m. – 8p.m.
Cost: $5 on MySchoolBucks
You don’t want to miss out on this fun event – live DJ, winter themed.
Pizza, snacks and hot cocoa will be available to purchase.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION SEL Screener Results Social and Emotional Learning Screener Results Coming Soon

One of the ways FCPS supports the mental wellness of all students is through the Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener. In October, students in grades 3-12 took this screener, which gives information about their skills such as achieving goals, handling emotions, building relationships with adults and peers, and making good choices.

The screener also helps students evaluate their school community’s efforts to make them feel valued, included, and supported. Screener data is used to create learning, experiences, and environments for students to succeed.

In early December, families will be able to view student SEL Screener results in SIS ParentVUE. For families who do not have an active ParentVUE account, results will be sent by mail.
Learn more about the screener on the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage. For help understanding your child’s results or ideas to support them at home, review theFamily Guide or contact us.

Register for ParentVUE
Learn how to activate your ParentVUE account, so you can easily access your child’s results and other helpful information.

CELL PHONE FEEDBACK OPPORTUNITY
Student Feedback Opportunity for FCPS Cell Phone Policy and SR&R

FCPS is working with K12 Insight to host a community forum for families, staff members, and students to provide feedback on the school division’s cell phone policies and practices, and the Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R) document. FCPS is looking for more student participants (grades 3-12) to help ensure diverse perspectives from our community.

The community forum will be held on Tuesday, December 10, 6:30-8 p.m., at the Willow Oaks Administrative Center. If your student is interested in providing feedback, please visit the Cell Phone Policy Forum registration page to learn more. Families must register their child by Monday, November 25.

WINTER WEATHER ❄️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 to find out about emergency weather closings. 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. Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE, bookmark the FCPS website, and arrange for childcare if needed.

Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

We will monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories which may prevent children from being outside. Make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy their time outdoors. See the National Weather Service’s tips on staying safe during cold weather.

If you need assistance supplying your child with cold-weather clothing, please call Fairfax County's Coordinated Services Planning at 703-222-0880. Their multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health care.

Return Your Federal Impact Aid Survey

FCPS is asking all families to fill out a Federal Impact Aid Survey. The form is available in SIS ParentVUE under Online Packets (in the upper right corner after logging in). Please complete it as soon as possible.

For any families who have not completed the survey in ParentVUE, we will provide paper forms starting Wednesday, November 13. Paper forms should be returned by Wednesday, December 4.

Completing this form for each school-aged child in every household is important. Information from this survey resulted in more than $4 million in funding last year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

For more information, please watch this video on Impact Aid and visit the Federal Impact Aid Survey page.

Need to Register for ParentVUE?
Learn how to activate your SIS ParentVUE account, so you can easily submit your survey.

Technical support for using ParentVUE or completing the survey online is available by submitting a Parent Support Request ticket. Select SISParent in the Application dropdown menu and type Federal Impact Aid Survey under Issue Description. Or, call the Parent Technology Help Desk at 833-921-3277 (833-921-FCPS).

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

     • Preparing for Winter Weather
     • SEL Screener Results
     • Varsity Girls Wrestling Is New Winter Sport

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

Longfellow Love

At Longfellow Middle School we have many students who live at, or below, the poverty level. Their families welcome our help with expenses such as school supplies and holiday meals. Longfellow Love is a student assistance program that supports Longfellow students in need through donations from families like you, as well as contributions from local businesses. The contributions and gift cards are then anonymously distributed directly to the families in need through the counseling system. In years past, we have only supported families during the holiday season, however, with the rising cost of food, we would like to provide gift cards to families for Thanksgiving as well as the holidays. This year, our fellow student families need our help more than ever! Click HERE to sign up to donate gift cards from Lidl and Walmart to Longfellow families who need our help during the upcoming season!

There are two ways you can purchase gift cards:
1. Go to Lidl and/or Walmart and purchase gift cards in person. Drop them off at the front office in an envelope addressed to Juanita Baptiste.
2. Go online to Walmart eGift Card, choose your amount, purchase an ecard, and email it to Juanita at [email protected]

Donated Gift Cards can be mailed, dropped off, or emailed to:
Juanita Baptiste
Longfellow Middle School
2000 Westmoreland Street
Falls Church, VA 22043
[email protected]

Gift cards for the holiday are needed by Monday, December 16th!!
Let's show our Lancer family some LOVE this holiday season! Thank you for your support!

Questions? Contact Longfellow Love chair, Michele Core at [email protected]

AFTER SCHOOL CORNER Schedule

Our 2nd Quarter after-school schedule can be found here.

After-School Office Staff

Staff are available in the main office until the last late bus departs. If you have any questions after 5pm., you may contact Transportation at 703.249.7100 or Safety and Security at 571.423.2000.

This is a reminder that student laptops are for instructional purposes, and not for other uses such as gaming. This applies to the instructional day, and also includes our after-school program. FCPS technology use states: The borrowed FCPS student device should be used only by the student to whom it is assigned, and only for assignments and tasks related to FCPS learning programs. It may not be used for personal activities like streaming video services, gaming, or social media.
https://www.fcps.edu/family-resources/technology/fcpson/student-device-guidelines

Parents who are interested in knowing more about their child’s internet activity on an FCPS device can sign up to our online service. It is a free service to FCPS parents. Parents can sign up to receive a weekly Parent Report from Lightspeed, our internet content filtering service. The report will provide a list of the top sites the child visited that week.

For more information, please visit: https://www.fcps.edu/resources/technology/lightspeed-parent-reports

2000 Westmoreland Street, Falls Church, VA 22043  | Main Office: 703-533-2600
Attendance: 703-533-2626 | Web | Twitter

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Monday, November 18, 2024 UPCOMING EVENTS

Schedule for the next two weeks:

DETAILS ON UPCOMING EVENTS Retake & Makeup Picture Day @ Longfellow Middle School
Monday, December 2, 2024

During all lunches in the Cafeteria (stage, behind the curtain)
Anyone who has not ordered can still preorder retake photos using this link: https://vando.imagequix.com/g1001133192#login

IMPORTANT INFORMATION Boundary Review Community Meeting

Community meetings regarding FCPS’ comprehensive boundary review will take place in each of the division's six regions. You are encouraged to attend the meeting in our region, which will take place on Monday, November 18, 6:30-8 p.m., at Glasgow Middle School Cafeteria.

Please register in advance by clicking on the date. Language interpretation will be available.

If you are unable to attend on this date, view the full list of meetings on the Comprehensive School Boundary Review webpage.

Return Your Federal Impact Aid Survey

FCPS is asking all families to fill out a Federal Impact Aid Survey. The form is available in SIS ParentVUE under Online Packets (in the upper right corner after logging in). Please complete it as soon as possible.

For any families who have not completed the survey in ParentVUE, we will provide paper forms starting Wednesday, November 13. Paper forms should be returned by Wednesday, December 4.

Completing this form for each school-aged child in every household is important. Information from this survey resulted in more than $4 million in funding last year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

For more information, please watch this video on Impact Aid and visit the Federal Impact Aid Survey page.

Need to Register for ParentVUE?
Learn how to activate your SIS ParentVUE account, so you can easily submit your survey.

Technical support for using ParentVUE or completing the survey online is available by submitting a Parent Support Request ticket. Select SISParent in the Application dropdown menu and type Federal Impact Aid Survey under Issue Description. Or, call the Parent Technology Help Desk at 833-921-3277 (833-921-FCPS).

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• Veterans Day Recognitions
• Resources on IEPs, Financial Aid, Literacy, Community Leadership
• Teacher Hiring Event

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

Longfellow Love

At Longfellow Middle School we have many students who live at, or below, the poverty level. Their families welcome our help with expenses such as school supplies and holiday meals. Longfellow Love is a student assistance program that supports Longfellow students in need through donations from families like you, as well as contributions from local businesses. The contributions and gift cards are then anonymously distributed directly to the families in need through the counseling system. In years past, we have only supported families during the holiday season, however, with the rising cost of food, we would like to provide gift cards to families for Thanksgiving as well as the holidays. This year, our fellow student families need our help more than ever! Click HERE to sign up to donate gift cards from Lidl and Walmart to Longfellow families who need our help during the upcoming season!

There are two ways you can purchase gift cards:
     1. Go to Lidl and/or Walmart and purchase gift cards in person. Drop them off at the front office in an envelope addressed to Juanita Baptiste.
     2. Go online to Walmart eGift Card, choose your amount, purchase an ecard, and email it to Juanita at [email protected]

Donated Gift Cards can be mailed, dropped off, or emailed to:
Juanita Baptiste
Longfellow Middle School
2000 Westmoreland Street
Falls Church, VA 22043
[email protected]

Gift cards for Thanksgiving are needed by Wednesday, November 20th, and holiday cards are needed by Monday, December 16th!!
Let's show our Lancer family some LOVE this holiday season! Thank you for your support!

Questions? Contact Longfellow Love chair, Michele Core at [email protected]

Calm Amid the Chaos:
Being the Parent Teens Need in a Competitive, Distracted, Divisive World

The Safe Community Coalition is pleased to welcome back Ned Johnson, best-selling co-author of The Self-Driven Child. Join us Wednesday, November 20 at 7pm at the McLean Community Center’s Alden Theatre for Calm Amid the Chaos: Being the Parent Teens Need in a Competitive, Distracted, Divisive World.

Learn what connects teen mental health and the motivational impacts of technology and social media, competitive schools and college pressure, and growing up in an unsettled and rapidly changing environment. Sharing insights from his latest book, What Do You Say?: How to Talk with Kids to Build Motivation, Stress Tolerance, and a Happy Home, Ned will provide tools for fostering close connections, navigating tough conversations, and helping teens feel grounded, understood, and resilient.

Tickets on sale now at McLeanSCC.org
Adults $15/Students $10 pre-sale or $20 at the door. Event proceeds support SCC programs and educational efforts. This program is appropriate for parents/caregivers and middle to high school students. Books will be on sale and a book signing will immediately follow the program.

AFTER SCHOOL CORNER Debate Team

The LMS debate chefs continued to cook while competing on Saturday. In a competition of 8 middle schools, 47 teams, and 94 students, four LMS teams placed in the top 20, with Will Rucker, Henry Janicke, Chandler Mehta, and Aidan Jamerson placing in the top 10. Two LMS students placed in the top 10 best speakers: Will Rucker placed 4th and Henry Janicke placed 9th. Congratulations to our phenomenal debate team!

 

2000 Westmoreland Street, Falls Church, VA 22043  | Main Office: 703-533-2600
Attendance: 703-533-2626 | Web | Twitter

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

Tuesday, November 12, 2024

Dear Lancers:
I hope that everyone enjoyed the three day weekend in observance of Veterans Day. I would like to thank all of our Longfellow Staff, as well as our Lancer community that have served or are currently serving in the armed forces. Longfellow is in its 6th year as a Purple Star designated school, a program that supports military-connected children as they relocate to new schools due to a parent’s change in duty station.

As we start the 2nd quarter, I ask for your partnership with our students’ use of technology. While we have seen much less cell phone use this year, there has been an increase in students playing video games on their FCPS issued laptops. This is a reminder that student laptops are for instructional purposes, and not for other uses such as gaming. This applies to the instructional day, and also includes our after-school program. FCPS technology use states: The borrowed FCPS student device should be used only by the student to whom it is assigned, and only for assignments and tasks related to FCPS learning programs. It may not be used for personal activities like streaming video services, gaming, or social media.
https://www.fcps.edu/family-resources/technology/fcpson/student-device-guidelines

Parents who are interested in knowing more about their child’s internet activity on an FCPS device can sign up to our online service. It is a free service to FCPS parents. Parents can sign up to receive a weekly Parent Report from Lightspeed, our internet content filtering service. The report will provide a list of the top sites the child visited that week.

For more information, please visit: https://www.fcps.edu/resources/technology/lightspeed-parent-reports

As always, please reach out if you need any support.

Thanks,

Jim

Jim Patrick
Principal
Longfellow Middle School

UPCOMING EVENTS

Schedule for the next two weeks:

DETAILS ON UPCOMING EVENTS Youth Survey

The Fairfax County Youth Survey, a collaboration between the Fairfax County School Board and the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, is a comprehensive, anonymous, and voluntary survey given each year to students in grades 6, 8, 10 and 12. The survey examines behaviors, experiences, and other factors that influence the health and well-being of Fairfax County's youth. The results, published each year at https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/youthsurvey, identify trends and areas of need, providing a snapshot of the county's youth and serving as a barometer of the community's effectiveness in fostering healthy choices in young people.

Longfellow Middle School will be administering the Fairfax County Youth Survey on November 15, 2024 during Learning Seminar 4.
While it is our hope that as many students as possible will participate, if you do not wish for your child to take part in the Youth Survey, please complete the form linked here and return it to your child's school counselor no later than November 13, 2024. If you have already opted your child out of this survey using the Parental Digital Consent Portal you do not need to provide additional information to the school counselor.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION Applications Open for Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology

Middle school students who have an aptitude and passion for STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) are encouraged to apply for admission to the Class of 2029 at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST).
The application is available on the TJHSST Admissions Office webpage. Applications must be started by 4 p.m. Wednesday, November 13, with a deadline to submit the application by Friday, November 15, at 4 p.m. Visit the TJHSST registration page for more information.

Return Your Federal Impact Aid Survey

FCPS is asking all families to fill out a Federal Impact Aid Survey. The form is available in SIS ParentVUE under Online Packets (in the upper right corner after logging in). Please complete it as soon as possible.

For any families who have not completed the survey in ParentVUE, we will provide paper forms starting Wednesday, November 13. Paper forms should be returned by Wednesday, December 4.

Completing this form for each school-aged child in every household is important. Information from this survey resulted in more than $4 million in funding last year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

For more information, please watch this video on Impact Aid and visit the Federal Impact Aid Survey page.

Need to Register for ParentVUE?
Learn how to activate your SIS ParentVUE account, so you can easily submit your survey.

Technical support for using ParentVUE or completing the survey online is available by submitting a Parent Support Request ticket. Select SISParent in the Application dropdown menu and type Federal Impact Aid Survey under Issue Description. Or, call the Parent Technology Help Desk at 833-921-3277 (833-921-FCPS).

Longfellow Love

At Longfellow Middle School we have many students who live at, or below, the poverty level. Their families welcome our help with expenses such as school supplies and holiday meals. Longfellow Love is a student assistance program that supports Longfellow students in need through donations from families like you, as well as contributions from local businesses. The contributions and gift cards are then anonymously distributed directly to the families in need through the counseling system. In years past, we have only supported families during the holiday season, however, with the rising cost of food, we would like to provide gift cards to families for Thanksgiving as well as the holidays. This year, our fellow student families need our help more than ever! Click HERE to sign up to donate gift cards from Lidl and Walmart to Longfellow families who need our help during the upcoming season!

There are two ways you can purchase gift cards:
     1. Go to Lidl and/or Walmart and purchase gift cards in person. Drop them off at the front office in an envelope addressed to Juanita Baptiste.
     2. Go online to Walmart eGift Card, choose your amount, purchase an ecard, and email it to Juanita at [email protected]

Donated Gift Cards can be mailed, dropped off, or emailed to:
Juanita Baptiste
Longfellow Middle School
2000 Westmoreland Street
Falls Church, VA 22043
[email protected]

Gift cards for Thanksgiving are needed by Wednesday, November 20th, and holiday cards are needed by Monday, December 16th!!
Let's show our Lancer family some LOVE this holiday season! Thank you for your support!

Questions? Contact Longfellow Love chair, Michele Core at [email protected]

AFTER SCHOOL CORNER

Longfellow had 2 teams compete in the Quiz Bowl tournament at Georgetown Day School on Saturday, November 2nd. Our A team placed 6th. Our B team placed 2nd in the consolation round. Congratulations to our Quiz Bowl winners.

Schedule

Our 2nd Quarter after-school schedule can be found here.

After-School Office Staff

Staff are available in the main office until the last late bus departs. If you have any questions after 5pm., you may contact Transportation at 703.249.7100 or Safety and Security at 571.423.2000.

Chess will begin Monday, November 18th.

2000 Westmoreland Street, Falls Church, VA 22043  | Main Office: 703-533-2600
Attendance: 703-533-2626 | Web | Twitter

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

Monday, November 4, 2024 UPCOMING EVENTS

Schedule for the next two weeks:

DETAILS ON UPCOMING EVENTS Retake & Makeup Picture Day @ Longfellow Middle School

     • Thursday, November 7, 2024

     • During all lunches in the cafeteria (stage, behind the curtain)

This photo day is for students who were absent, new to the school, or who were not happy with their original package (students are required to return their original package to the photographer). No purchase is necessary.

     • Anyone who has not ordered can still preorder retake photos using this link: https://vando.imagequix.com/g1001133192#login

IMPORTANT INFORMATION Return Your Federal Impact Aid Survey

FCPS is asking all families to fill out a Federal Impact Aid Survey. The form is available in SIS ParentVUE under Online Packets (in the upper right corner after logging in). Please complete it as soon as possible.

For any families who have not completed the survey in ParentVUE, we will provide paper forms starting Wednesday, November 13. Paper forms should be returned by Wednesday, December 4.

Completing this form for each school-aged child in every household is important. Information from this survey resulted in more than $4 million in funding last year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

For more information, please watch this video on Impact Aid and visit the Federal Impact Aid Survey page.

Need to Register for ParentVUE?
Learn how to activate your SIS ParentVUE account, so you can easily submit your survey.

Technical support for using ParentVUE or completing the survey online is available by submitting a Parent Support Request ticket. Select SISParent in the Application dropdown menu and type Federal Impact Aid Survey under Issue Description. Or, call the Parent Technology Help Desk at 833-921-3277 (833-921-FCPS).

Longfellow Love

At Longfellow Middle School we have many students who live at, or below, the poverty level. Their families welcome our help with expenses such as school supplies and holiday meals. Longfellow Love is a student assistance program that supports Longfellow students in need through donations from families like you, as well as contributions from local businesses. The contributions and gift cards are then anonymously distributed directly to the families in need through the counseling system. In years past, we have only supported families during the holiday season, however, with the rising cost of food, we would like to provide gift cards to families for Thanksgiving as well as the holidays. This year, our fellow student families need our help more than ever! Click HERE to sign up to donate gift cards from Lidl and Walmart to Longfellow families who need our help during the upcoming season!

There are two ways you can purchase gift cards:
1. Go to Lidl and/or Walmart and purchase gift cards in person. Drop them off at the front office in an envelope addressed to Juanita Baptiste.
2. Go online to Walmart eGift Card, choose your amount, purchase an ecard, and email it to Juanita at [email protected]

Donated Gift Cards can be mailed, dropped off, or emailed to:
Juanita Baptiste
Longfellow Middle School
2000 Westmoreland Street
Falls Church, VA 22043
[email protected]

Gift cards for Thanksgiving are needed by Wednesday, November 20th, and holiday cards are needed by Monday, December 16th!!
Let's show our Lancer family some LOVE this holiday season! Thank you for your support!

Questions? Contact Longfellow Love chair, Michele Core at [email protected]

AFTER SCHOOL CORNER Schedule

Our 2nd Quarter after-school schedule can be found here.

Late buses

Late buses are offered Monday - Thursday. Buses typically leave Longfellow between 4:40p.m. - 5:00p.m.

After-School Office Staff

Staff are available in the main office until the last late bus departs. If you have any questions after 5pm., you may contact Transportation at 703.249.7100 or Safety and Security at 571.423.2000.

PARENT INFORMATION Outstanding Employee Awards Program

Nominations will be/are now open for the Outstanding Employee Awards! To submit a nomination for a Longfellow Middle School Outstanding Employee in one of the categories below, please complete the nomination through this Google form link: https://forms.gle/C8TKKdSY9EE528aR8 You may nominate one employee at our school or multiple employees (one individual may only nominate one employee per category.)

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

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

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

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

Outstanding Leader
Eligibility: At least one year of experience in their current position as a Schedule-C or School-Based Administrator scale employee (that is not the building principal) at their current location
Common positions in this category: Assistant and Associate Principals, Director of Student Activities, Director of Student Services

Outstanding Professional Employee
Eligibility: At least one year experience in current position as a Schedule-B employee or other non-instructional employee in a school that supports school leadership at their current location
Common positions in this category: School-Based Technology Specialist, Technology Support Specialist, Assessment Coach, Career Center Specialist, Instructional Coach, After-School Specialist, MTSS Coordinator, Psychologist, Social Worker, School Counselor, Safety and Security Specialist, Resource Teachers that serve in an administrative role in a school, Special Education Department Chairs that teach less than 50% of their time, Reading Specialists that do not have a regular course load/do not give grades

Outstanding Operational Employee
Eligibility: At least one year of experience in current position as Schedule-A or Classroom Instructional Support Scale employee at their current location
Common positions in this category: Administrative and Office Staff, Safety and Security Assistant, Custodial Staff, Food Service Staff, IA, PHA, PHTA, All Parent Liaisons

The deadline to submit a nomination is Wednesday, November 6, 2024.
If you have any questions, please contact Tara Fortune at [email protected].

McLean High School Crew Club Turkey Trot 5K (with Langley Crew Club)

Please join McLean High School Crew Club, in partnership with Langley Crew Club, on Saturday, November 30 at 9 am for a Turkey Trot 5K. The friendly rivals are joining together as ONE team to support and strengthen rowing in our McLean and Great Falls community. Proceeds from the event will be shared equally between the two teams.

Register here:
https://potomac.enmotive.com/events/register/2024-langley-crew-turkey-trot-5k

In addition to a scenic 5K run, there will be a dj with music and a coffee truck for specialty coffee and hot chocolate, starting at 8 am on the day of the trot. For those who cannot join in person, please consider registering for the virtual trot.

Grab your friends and family, and let’s run/walk!
Registration Fee:
5K: $35 before November 1, then $50 November 2 through Race Day
All pre-registered runners will receive a commemorative shirt.
Be sure to register by November 1 to be guaranteed a shirt.

Toy Drive

Share of McLean's Holiday Program kicks off on November 16! This year, Jack, a regular Share volunteer and former Longfellow student, is leading a toy collection drive. He has created an Amazon wish list with items for kids ages 1 to 11, ranging from $10 to $15. Please check out the Amazon wish list if you would like to contribute, preferably by November 14.

2000 Westmoreland Street, Falls Church, VA 22043  | Main Office: 703-533-2600
Attendance: 703-533-2626 | Web | Twitter

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

Support Excellence at Longfellow Middle School!

Dear Lancer Families,

We wanted to take a moment to thank all the parents who have joined, and all the volunteers who have given their time to the Longfellow PTA. Your support is why we have a tradition of Excellence here at Longfellow.

We are so grateful for the strong partnership between the school and the Longfellow PTA. Funding provided by the PTA goes directly to students and teachers. This support benefits educational initiatives and provides improvements to our classrooms. PTA funding provides:

• Grants and stipends for teachers
• Technology enhancements which positively impact every classroom
• Classroom supplies
• Teacher workroom updates
• School beautification
• Student recognition and incentive program
• Heritage Night sponsorship
• Teacher and staff development programs

Last year we were able to complete our multi-year project of ensuring every classroom had new projectors.   With additional PTA support, we are hoping to add more murals and other school beautification projects to LMS, as well as increase the rewards in our student incentive program.

Due to LMS PTA support, we are able to have events that bring us together as a community to celebrate our staff, our students, and our diverse community. The PTA also provides speakers to inform on issues that impact our community.

If you have not yet had a chance to become a PTA member, or to donate to the Support Excellence campaign we encourage you to do so.  Your donation to the  Support Excellence campaign helps to support the tradition of Excellence at LMS and directly impacts every student.

 

With Appreciation,

 

Jim Patrick          Beth Coyne

Principal             PTA President

2000 Westmoreland Street, Falls Church, VA 22043  | Main Office: 703-533-2600
Attendance: 703-533-2626 | Web | Twitter

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Tuesday, October 29, 2024

Dear Lancers,

Can't believe it's already the end of the first quarter!  Just a quick reminder about this week's schedule:

• Thursday, October 31st: We have a 2-hour early release. Please note that there will be no after-school activities.
• Return to School: Students will be back on Wednesday, November 6th, which is an anchor day.

When we return, we'll be diving back into executive functioning and organizational strategies during our advisory lessons. This is a key focus for our school this year, as these skills are essential for success in middle school, high school, and beyond.

How can you help? Encourage your child to show you their agenda, binder, and Schoology calendar.  

Here's to a fantastic week at Longfellow!

Jim 

UPCOMING EVENTS

Schedule for the next two weeks:

DETAILS ON UPCOMING EVENTS End of Book Fair

Friday, October 20th was the last day for the In-school Book Fair. However, if you are looking for more books or if your student forgot to use their eWallet, you can still order on our Book Fair website until October 31 and our school will receive 25% of the profits!
We are so grateful to our parent volunteers for the time and support in making this endeavor a successful one for Longfellow MS. Thank you once again for supporting the Longfellow Library program.

Retake & Makeup Picture Day @ Longfellow Middle School

     • Thursday, November 7, 2024
     • During all lunches in the Cafeteria (stage, behind the curtain)
This photo day is for students who were absent, new to the school, or who were not happy with their original package (students are required to return their original package to the photographer). No purchase is necessary.
     • Anyone who has not ordered can still preorder retake photos using this link https://vando.imagequix.com/g1001133192#login

Coming Soon: Youth Survey

The Fairfax County Youth Survey, a collaboration between the Fairfax County School Board and the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, is a comprehensive, anonymous, and voluntary survey given each year to students in grades 6, 8, 10 and 12. The survey examines behaviors, experiences, and other factors that influence the health and well-being of Fairfax County's youth. The results, published each year at https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/youthsurvey, identify trends and areas of need, providing a snapshot of the county's youth and serving as a barometer of the community's effectiveness in fostering healthy choices in young people.

Longfellow Middle School will be administering the Fairfax County Youth Survey on November 15, 2024 during Learning Seminar 4.

While it is our hope that as many students as possible will participate, if you do not wish for your child to take part in the Youth Survey, please complete the form linked here and return it to your child's school counselor no later than November 8, 2024. If you have already opted your child out of this survey using the Parental Digital Consent Portal you do not need to provide additional information to the school counselor.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION Return Your Federal Impact Aid Survey

FCPS is asking all families to fill out a Federal Impact Aid Survey. The form is available in SIS ParentVUE under Online Packets (in the upper right corner after logging in). Please complete it as soon as possible.

For any families who have not completed the survey in ParentVUE, we will provide paper forms starting Wednesday, November 13. Paper forms should be returned by Wednesday, December 4.

Completing this form for each school-aged child in every household is important. Information from this survey resulted in more than $4 million in funding last year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

For more information, please watch this video on Impact Aid and visit the Federal Impact Aid Survey page.

Need to Register for ParentVUE?
Learn how to activate your SIS ParentVUE account, so you can easily submit your survey.

Technical support for using ParentVUE or completing the survey online is available by submitting a Parent Support Request ticket. Select SISParent in the Application dropdown menu and type Federal Impact Aid Survey under Issue Description. Or, call the Parent Technology Help Desk at 833-921-3277 (833-921-FCPS).

🎤Our Schools, Our Future: Register Today for a Community Conversation!

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid invites you to share your thoughts and ask questions at the final community conversation this fall. It will be held Wednesday, October 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Herndon Middle School. Click the date to register. Childcare and language interpretation services will be provided.

Private School Recommendations

With any Private School Recommendation, there are 3 steps that parents and students are asked to do prior to teachers completing the recommendation forms.
This site explains more: https://longfellowms.fcps.edu/student-services/record-request-and-private-school-application-process

Next to #3, you will see the required LMS Student Information form.

This form must be completed and sent to the teacher before the recommendation can be written.

In accordance with the application procedure, the LMS Student Information form is expected to be emailed at least two weeks in advance to the private school application deadline.

Longfellow Love

At Longfellow Middle School we have many students who live at, or below, the poverty level. Their families welcome our help with expenses such as school supplies and holiday meals. Longfellow Love is a student assistance program that supports Longfellow students in need through donations from families like you, as well as contributions from local businesses. The contributions and gift cards are then anonymously distributed directly to the families in need through the counseling system. In years past, we have only supported families during the holiday season, however, with the rising cost of food, we would like to provide gift cards to families for Thanksgiving as well as the holidays. This year, our fellow student families need our help more than ever! Click HERE to sign up to donate gift cards from Lidl and Walmart to Longfellow families who need our help during the upcoming season!

There are two ways you can purchase gift cards:
1. Go to Lidl and/or Walmart and purchase gift cards in person. Drop them off at the front office in an envelope addressed to Juanita Baptiste.
2. Go online to Walmart eGift Card, choose your amount, purchase an ecard, and email it to Juanita at [email protected]

Donated Gift Cards can be mailed, dropped off, or emailed to:
Juanita Baptiste
Longfellow Middle School
2000 Westmoreland Street
Falls Church, VA 22043
[email protected]

Gift cards for Thanksgiving are needed by Wednesday, November 20th, and holiday cards are needed by Monday, December 16th!!
Let's show our Lancer family some LOVE this holiday season! Thank you for your support!

Questions? Contact Longfellow Love chair, Michele Core at [email protected]

AFTER SCHOOL CORNER Debate turns in dominant performance:

The LMS debate team cooked, served, ate, and left no crumbs while competing in their first competition of the year on Saturday. In a competition of 7 middle schools and 140 students, four LMS teams placed in the top 10, more than any other school. The team of Leena Melkote and Vivian Li placed 2nd, Chandler Mehta and Will Rucker placed 5th, Eileen Zou and Victoria Glass placed 6th, and Ashley Yan and Elaina Wang placed 8th. Six LMS students placed in the top 10 best speakers, including Ashley Yan who received first place. Other best speaker winners were Joe Lewis, Elaina Wang, Will Rucker, Leena Melkote, and Vivian Li. Congratulations to our amazing debate team.

Cross Country Wraps up the Season!

Our Cross Country Team Wrapped up their season at Liberty Middle School for the FCPS Middle School Championship this weekend. We had great performances. Out of 26 teams, our girls team finished 4th and our boys team finished 5th overall. Grant Dougherty finished in the top 15, placing 6th overall in the boys competition. Congratulations to the following athletes that competed:

Girls:
Riya Alalasundaram
Gabriella LeMoigne
Logan Bennett
Claire Klein
Sophie Bittenbender

Boys:
Grant Dougherty
Declan Nguyen
Mathis Laree
AJ Samson
George Nguyen

Schedule

Our most updated after-school schedule can be found here.

Late buses

Late buses are offered Monday - Thursday. Buses typically leave Longfellow between 4:40p.m. - 5:00p.m.

After-School Office Staff

Staff are available in the main office until the last late bus departs. If you have any questions after 5pm., you may contact Transportation at 703.249.7100 or Safety and Security at 571.423.2000.

PARENT INFORMATION Outstanding Employee Awards Program

Nominations will be/are now open for the Outstanding Employee Awards! To submit a nomination for a Longfellow Middle School Outstanding Employee in one of the categories below, please complete the nomination through this Google form link: https://forms.gle/C8TKKdSY9EE528aR8 You may nominate one employee at our school or multiple employees (one individual may only nominate one employee per category.)
All that is required for a preliminary nomination is a paragraph or two about how this employee demonstrates exceptional work in one more of the criteria for that award category. The google form link has more information regarding the criteria for each of these awards. The eligibility requirements are below.

Outstanding Teacher
Eligibility: Has at least three years of experience as a teacher (in any school/school district); librarians are included in this category
Outstanding New Teacher
Eligibility: Has up to three years of experience as a teacher (in any school/school district); librarians are included in this category
Outstanding Principal
Eligibility: Has at least three years of experience as a building principal (in any school/school district)
Outstanding Leader
Eligibility: At least one year of experience in their current position as a Schedule-C or School-Based Administrator scale employee (that is not the building principal) at their current location
Common positions in this category: Assistant and Associate Principals, Director of Student Activities, Director of Student Services
Outstanding Professional Employee
Eligibility: At least one year experience in current position as a Schedule-B employee or other non-instructional employee in a school that supports school leadership at their current location
Common positions in this category: School-Based Technology Specialist, Technology Support Specialist, Assessment Coach, Career Center Specialist, Instructional Coach, After-School Specialist, MTSS Coordinator, Psychologist, Social Worker, School Counselor, Safety and Security Specialist, Resource Teachers that serve in an administrative role in a school, Special Education Department Chairs that teach less than 50% of their time, Reading Specialists that do not have a regular course load/do not give grades
Outstanding Operational Employee
Eligibility: At least one year of experience in current position as Schedule-A or Classroom Instructional Support Scale employee at their current location
Common positions in this category: Administrative and Office Staff, Safety and Security Assistant, Custodial Staff, Food Service Staff, IA, PHA, PHTA, All Parent Liaisons

The deadline to submit a nomination is Wednesday, November 6, 2024.
If you have any questions, please contact Tara Fortune at [email protected].

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• Federal Impact Aid Survey
• Football Players Tackle Literacy
• Tips to Keep Children Safe

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

McLean High School Crew Club Turkey Trot 5K (with Langley Crew Club)

Please join McLean High School Crew Club, in partnership with Langley Crew Club, on Saturday, November 30 at 9 am for a Turkey Trot 5K. The friendly rivals are joining together as ONE team to support and strengthen rowing in our McLean and Great Falls community. Proceeds from the event will be shared equally between the two teams.
Register here:
https://potomac.enmotive.com/events/register/2024-langley-crew-turkey-trot-5k

In addition to a scenic 5K run, there will be a dj with music and a coffee truck for specialty coffee and hot chocolate, starting at 8 am on the day of the trot. For those who cannot join in person, please consider registering for the virtual trot.

Grab your friends and family, and let’s run/walk!

Registration Fee:
5K: $35 before November 1, then $50 November 2 through Race Day
All pre-registered runners will receive a commemorative shirt.
Be sure to register by November 1 to be guaranteed a shirt.

Toy Drive

Share of McLean's Holiday Program kicks off on November 16! This year, Jack, a regular Share volunteer and former Longfellow student, is leading a toy collection drive. He has created an Amazon wish list with items for kids ages 1 to 11, ranging from $10 to $15. Please check out the Amazon wish list if you would like to contribute, preferably by November 14.

2000 Westmoreland Street, Falls Church, VA 22043  | Main Office: 703-533-2600
Attendance: 703-533-2626 | Web | Twitter

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Monday, October 21, 2024 UPCOMING EVENTS

Schedule for the next two weeks:

DETAILS ON UPCOMING EVENTS: Notes from the Library: Book Fair is This Week!

The Longfellow Book Fair starts today, October 21. The Book Fair is open all week during the school day (7:10 am-2:30 pm). Book Fair proceeds support the Longfellow Library. It’s a great way to support the library and spend time with our Lancers. The preferred Book Fair payment method is to set up an “eWallet” in advance or send your child with cash. The eWallet allows parents to set a spending limit for their student, but only the exact amount of the sale is charged. Set Up Your eWallet Here. Having trouble? Click here for instructions.

Volunteers needed!! Can you spare 30 minutes in the morning? We need help during the morning rush, as well as when 7th grade English classes visit. Click here to go to the Longfellow Book Fair Sign-Up to volunteer.

Trivia Night - October 25th, 6:00PM

Coming Soon: Youth Survey

The Fairfax County Youth Survey, a collaboration between the Fairfax County School Board and the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, is a comprehensive, anonymous, and voluntary survey given each year to students in grades 6, 8, 10 and 12. The survey examines behaviors, experiences, and other factors that influence the health and well-being of Fairfax County's youth. The results, published each year at https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/youthsurvey, identify trends and areas of need, providing a snapshot of the county's youth and serving as a barometer of the community's effectiveness in fostering healthy choices in young people.

Longfellow Middle School will be administering the Fairfax County Youth Survey on November 15, 2024 during Learning Seminar 4.

While it is our hope that as many students as possible will participate, if you do not wish for your child to take part in the Youth Survey, please complete the form linked here and return it to your child's school counselor no later than November 8, 2024. If you have already opted your child out of this survey using the Parental Digital Consent Portal you do not need to provide additional information to the school counselor.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION Private School Recommendations

With any Private School Recommendation, there are 3 steps that parents and students are asked to do prior to teachers completing the recommendation forms.
This site explains more: https://longfellowms.fcps.edu/student-services/record-request-and-private-school-application-process

Next to #3, you will see the required LMS Student Information form.
This form must be completed and sent to the teacher before the recommendation can be written.

In accordance with the application procedure, the LMS Student Information form is expected to be emailed at least two weeks in advance to the private school application deadline.

Outstanding Employee Awards Program

Nominations will be/are now open for the Outstanding Employee Awards! To submit a nomination for a Longfellow Middle School Outstanding Employee in one of the categories below, please complete the nomination through this Google form link: https://forms.gle/C8TKKdSY9EE528aR8 You may nominate one employee at our school or multiple employees (one individual may only nominate one employee per category.)
All that is required for a preliminary nomination is a paragraph or two about how this employee demonstrates exceptional work in one more of the criteria for that award category. The google form link has more information regarding the criteria for each of these awards. The eligibility requirements are below.

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

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

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

Outstanding Leader
Eligibility: At least one year of experience in their current position as a Schedule-C or School-Based Administrator scale employee (that is not the building principal) at their current location
Common positions in this category: Assistant and Associate Principals, Director of Student Activities, Director of Student Services

Outstanding Professional Employee
Eligibility: At least one year experience in current position as a Schedule-B employee or other non-instructional employee in a school that supports school leadership at their current location
Common positions in this category: School-Based Technology Specialist, Technology Support Specialist, Assessment Coach, Career Center Specialist, Instructional Coach, After-School Specialist, MTSS Coordinator, Psychologist, Social Worker, School Counselor, Safety and Security Specialist, Resource Teachers that serve in an administrative role in a school, Special Education Department Chairs that teach less than 50% of their time, Reading Specialists that do not have a regular course load/do not give grades

Outstanding Operational Employee
Eligibility: At least one year of experience in current position as Schedule-A or Classroom Instructional Support Scale employee at their current location
Common positions in this category: Administrative and Office Staff, Safety and Security Assistant, Custodial Staff, Food Service Staff, IA, PHA, PHTA, All Parent Liaisons

The deadline to submit a nomination is Wednesday, November 6, 2024.
If you have any questions, please contact Tara Fortune at [email protected].

Longfellow Love

At Longfellow Middle School we have many students who live at, or below, the poverty level. Their families welcome our help with expenses such as school supplies and holiday meals. Longfellow Love is a student assistance program that supports Longfellow students in need through donations from families like you, as well as contributions from local businesses. The contributions and gift cards are then anonymously distributed directly to the families in need through the counseling system. In years past, we have only supported families during the holiday season, however, with the rising cost of food, we would like to provide gift cards to families for Thanksgiving as well as the holidays. This year, our fellow student families need our help more than ever! Click HERE to sign up to donate gift cards from Lidl and Walmart to Longfellow families who need our help during the upcoming season!

There are two ways you can purchase gift cards:
     1. Go to Lidl and/or Walmart and purchase gift cards in person. Drop them off at the front office in an envelope addressed to Juanita Baptiste.
     2. Go online to Walmart eGift Card, choose your amount, purchase an ecard, and email it to Juanita at [email protected]

Donated Gift Cards can be mailed, dropped off, or emailed to:
Juanita Baptiste
Longfellow Middle School
2000 Westmoreland Street
Falls Church, VA 22043
[email protected]

Gift cards for Thanksgiving are needed by Wednesday, November 20th, and holiday cards are needed by Monday, December 16th!!
Let's show our Lancer family some LOVE this holiday season! Thank you for your support!

Questions? Contact Longfellow Love chair, Michele Core at [email protected]

AFTER SCHOOL CORNER

Congratulations to the MathCounts Team!

Longfellow MathCounts members (Mattias Gessesew, Zelman Zhang, Ian Boyd, Henry Yang, Adrian Qin, and Evander Rodriguez) represented LMS well at the TJIMO Saturday. Along with other team members placing in different team competitions, Henry Y’s team won 2nd place overall. More importantly, in the individual competitions: Henry Y tied for 2nd place in Geometry; Ian placed 3rd in Geometry; Zelman & Adrian tied for 2nd place in Algebra; and Evan placed 1st in Puzzle 1 Round, solving the puzzle in 4 minutes.
Fun and learning had by all!

Schedule

Our most updated after-school schedule can be found here.

Late buses

Late buses are offered Monday - Thursday. Buses typically leave Longfellow between 4:40p.m. - 5:00p.m.

After-School Office Staff

Staff are available in the main office until the last late bus departs. If you have any questions after 5pm., you may contact Transportation at 703.249.7100 or Safety and Security at 571.423.2000.

Rubik’s Cube (Speedcubing) begins tomorrow 10/22 during 1st Block.
GSA will now meet on Tuesdays.

PARENT INFORMATION McLean High School Crew Club Turkey Trot 5K (with Langley Crew Club)

Please join McLean High School Crew Club, in partnership with Langley Crew Club, on Saturday, November 30 at 9 am for a Turkey Trot 5K. The friendly rivals are joining together as ONE team to support and strengthen rowing in our McLean and Great Falls community. Proceeds from the event will be shared equally between the two teams.

Register here:
https://potomac.enmotive.com/events/register/2024-langley-crew-turkey-trot-5k

In addition to a scenic 5K run, there will be a DJ with music and a coffee truck for specialty coffee and hot chocolate, starting at 8 am on the day of the trot. For those who cannot join in person, please consider registering for the virtual trot.

Grab your friends and family, and let’s run/walk!
Registration Fee:
5K: $35 before November 1, then $50 November 2 through Race Day
All pre-registered runners will receive a commemorative shirt.
Be sure to register by November 1 to be guaranteed a shirt.

2000 Westmoreland Street, Falls Church, VA 22043  | Main Office: 703-533-2600
Attendance: 703-533-2626 | Web | Twitter

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MHS Football Game Information

Please remember that if your child is attending tonight’s Varsity Football game vs Herndon, they must be accompanied by an adult. There are no backpacks, purses, food or drink permitted. Student ID’s will be checked at the gate. Ticket prices did change this year and are now $7 for adults and $5 for students.

2000 Westmoreland Street, Falls Church, VA 22043  | Main Office: 703-533-2600
Attendance: 703-533-2626 | Web | Twitter

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

Tuesday, October 15, 2024 UPCOMING EVENTS

Schedule for the next two weeks:

DETAILS ON UPCOMING EVENTS: Trivia Night - October 25th, 6:00PM IMPORTANT INFORMATION SOS Signs of Suicide Screener - October 15-17, 2024

The SOS Screener is offered to help assess whether or not students may have symptoms consistent with depression. Students who participate in the screening will receive a presentation about depression awareness and suicide prevention. Following the presentations, students will complete a brief questionnaire. Further follow up with a school mental health clinician will be available if needed, and families will be notified in the event that follow up is warranted. The presentation and questionnaire will be administered to 7th graders through H/PE classes this week, October 15-17, 2024.

Notes from the Library: Fall 2024 Book Fair is coming soon!

The Longfellow Library is hosting a Book Fair October 21-25th during the school day. 7th Grade students will visit the fair through their English classes. All students can visit the Book Fair before school, during Lunches, after school until 2:30, and during class with teacher permission. The preferred Book Fair payment method is to set up an “eWallet” in advance or send your child with cash. The eWallet allows parents to set a spending limit for their student, but only the exact amount of the sale is charged. Set Up Your eWallet Here. Volunteers needed!! Can you spare 30 minutes in the morning? We need help during the morning rush, as well as when 7th grade English classes visit. Click here to go to the Longfellow Book Fair Sign-Up to volunteer.

Private School Recommendations

With any Private School Recommendation, there are 3 steps that parents and students are asked to do prior to teachers completing the recommendation forms.

This site explains more: https://longfellowms.fcps.edu/student-services/record-request-and-private-school-application-process

Next to #3, you will see the required LMS Student Information form.
This form must be completed and sent to the teacher before the recommendation can be written.

In accordance with the application procedure, the LMS Student Information form is expected to be emailed at least two weeks in advance to the private school application deadline.

🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Register Today for a Community Conversation!

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid will host a series of Community Conversations this fall. She invites you to share your thoughts and ask questions. Click the dates below to register for any of the following conversations:

     • Monday, October 21, at Virginia Run Elementary School.
     • Wednesday, October 30, at Herndon Middle School.

Events take place from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Childcare and language interpretation services will be provided.

Outstanding Employee Awards Program

Nominations will be/are now open for the Outstanding Employee Awards! To submit a nomination for a Longfellow Middle School Outstanding Employee in one of the categories below, please complete the nomination through this Google form link: https://forms.gle/C8TKKdSY9EE528aR8 You may nominate one employee at our school or multiple employees (one individual may only nominate one employee per category.)

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

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

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

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

Outstanding Leader
Eligibility: At least one year of experience in their current position as a Schedule-C or School-Based Administrator scale employee (that is not the building principal) at their current location
Common positions in this category: Assistant and Associate Principals, Director of Student Activities, Director of Student Services

Outstanding Professional Employee
Eligibility: At least one year experience in current position as a Schedule-B employee or other non-instructional employee in a school that supports school leadership at their current location
Common positions in this category: School-Based Technology Specialist, Technology Support Specialist, Assessment Coach, Career Center Specialist, Instructional Coach, After-School Specialist, MTSS Coordinator, Psychologist, Social Worker, School Counselor, Safety and Security Specialist, Resource Teachers that serve in an administrative role in a school, Special Education Department Chairs that teach less than 50% of their time, Reading Specialists that do not have a regular course load/do not give grades

Outstanding Operational Employee
Eligibility: At least one year of experience in current position as Schedule-A or Classroom Instructional Support Scale employee at their current location
Common positions in this category: Administrative and Office Staff, Safety and Security Assistant, Custodial Staff, Food Service Staff, IA, PHA, PHTA, All Parent Liaisons

The deadline to submit a nomination is Friday, November 1, 2024.
If you have any questions, please contact Tara Fortune.

Longfellow Love

At Longfellow Middle School we have many students who live at, or below, the poverty level. Their families welcome our help with expenses such as school supplies and holiday meals. Longfellow Love is a student assistance program that supports Longfellow students in need through donations from families like you, as well as contributions from local businesses. The contributions and gift cards are then anonymously distributed directly to the families in need through the counseling system. In years past, we have only supported families during the holiday season, however, with the rising cost of food, we would like to provide gift cards to families for Thanksgiving as well as the holidays. This year, our fellow student families need our help more than ever! Click HERE to sign up to donate gift cards from Lidl and Walmart to Longfellow families who need our help during the upcoming season!

There are two ways you can purchase gift cards:
1. Go to Lidl and/or Walmart and purchase gift cards in person. Drop them off at the front office in an envelope addressed to Juanita Baptiste.

2. Go online to Walmart eGift Card, choose your amount, purchase an ecard, and email it to Juanita at [email protected]

Donated Gift Cards can be mailed, dropped off, or emailed to:

Juanita Baptiste
Longfellow Middle School
2000 Westmoreland Street
Falls Church, VA 22043
[email protected]

Gift cards for Thanksgiving are needed by Wednesday, November 20th, and holiday cards are needed by Monday, December 16th!!

Let's show our Lancer family some LOVE this holiday season! Thank you for your support!

Questions? Contact Longfellow Love chair, Michele Core at [email protected]

National School Lunch Week-Celebrating the Power of School Lunches

Multiple studies show that school lunches are important in supporting overall student health by improving students’ diets and combating food insecurity. Students who eat school lunches consume more fruit, vegetables, and fiber than their peers.

This School Lunch Week, FCPS Food and Nutrition Services reminds families that they are dedicated to providing flavorful, healthy, sustainable, and student-focused meals. Also, new menu items have been launched this year based on student feedback.

Want to know what’s for breakfast or lunch? Nutrition Services now has printable menus.

Safeway Immunization Clinics for All FCPS Students

Safeway Pharmacy will be providing immunizations at Frost Middle School for all FCPS students at no cost on:

     • Monday, October 28, 3-7 p.m.

Transportation options are available.

Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are highly encouraged to avoid wait times. A parent or guardian must accompany walk-in students under the age of 19 to provide consent. Learn more about immunization resources and registering in other languages for the Safeway clinic.

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

     • Learn About Lexia for Literacy
     • Schools Win Exemplar Awards
     • Upcoming Community Conversations

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

AFTER SCHOOL CORNER Schedule

Our most updated after-school schedule can be found here.

Late buses

Late buses are offered Monday - Thursday. Buses typically leave Longfellow between 4:40p.m. - 5:00p.m.

After-School Office Staff

Staff are available in the main office until the last late bus departs. If you have any questions after 5pm., you may contact Transportation at 703.249.7100 or Safety and Security at 571.423.2000.

Python Symphony begins today during first block.
Rubik’s Cube (Speedcubing) begins 10/22.
GSA will now meet on Tuesdays.

2000 Westmoreland Street, Falls Church, VA 22043  | Main Office: 703-533-2600
Attendance: 703-533-2626 | Web | Twitter

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

Monday, October 7, 2024 UPCOMING EVENTS

Schedule for the next two weeks:

DETAILS ON UPCOMING EVENTS Walk, Bike, & Roll to School Day

Wednesday, October 9th is the annual Walk, Bike, & Roll to School Day. We are encouraging all our Lancers, who are able, to bike, walk and roll to school. There are many benefits to active transport such as developing healthier habits, contributing to a cleaner environment, promoting pedestrian safety, and building a stronger sense of community. If you would like to learn more, please check out the Walk, Bike & Roll to School website: https://www.walkbiketoschool.org/learn-more/why-walkbike/. We hope to see you out there!

Notes from the Library: Fall 2024 BOOK FAIR, volunteers needed!

The Longfellow Library is hosting a BOOK FAIR October 21-25th during the school day. We are open from 7:15am to 2:30pm. All students can visit the Book Fair before school, during Lunches, after school until 2:30, and during class with teacher permission. We are looking for adult volunteers to help with the fair, please see our Signup Genius here. If you can only spare 30 minutes, we have space for you to volunteer! Thank you for your support of the Longfellow Library program!

Trivia Night - 10/25/2024 IMPORTANT INFORMATION Social Studies Basal Resources Review

FCPS is adopting Social Studies Basal Resources for the 2025-26 school year. Basal resources are the primary resources used to support instruction in a given subject. Public review of the instructional materials under consideration — which is part of the process for selecting new resources — is underway. Visit the Community Review webpage for more information on how to view the materials online or in person.

All community feedback will be shared with School Board members before they vote to select materials in spring 2025. FCPS adopts basal resources by the process outlined in Regulation 3004.

🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Register Today for a Community Conversation!

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid will host a series of Community Conversations this fall. She invites you to share your thoughts and ask questions. Click the dates below to register for any of the following conversations:

     • Monday, October 14, at Fairhill Elementary School.
     • Monday, October 21, at Virginia Run Elementary School.
     • Wednesday, October 30, at Herndon Middle School.

Events take place from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Childcare and language interpretation services will be provided.

AFTER SCHOOL CORNER

There are no after school activities this Friday, October 11th.

Schedule

Our most updated after-school schedule can be found here.

Late buses

Late buses are offered Monday - Thursday. Buses typically leave Longfellow between 4:40p.m. - 5:00p.m.

After-School Office Staff

Staff are available in the main office until the last late bus departs. If you have any questions after 5pm., you may contact Transportation at 703.249.7100 or Safety and Security at 571.423.2000.

Python Symphony - Python Coding Club

Are you interested in Python? Python Symphony will begin on Tuesday, October 15th during 1st Block.

2000 Westmoreland Street, Falls Church, VA 22043  | Main Office: 703-533-2600
Attendance: 703-533-2626 | Web | Twitter

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

Tuesday, October 1, 2024 UPCOMING EVENTS Rosh Hashanah

Rosh Hashanah begins at sundown on Wednesday, October 2. That day is an evening-only observance day. Important events will not be held after school.
Thursday, October 3, is a holiday for all FCPS staff. Schools and offices will be closed.

Friday, October 4, is a teacher workday and there will be no school for students.

Schedule for the next two weeks:

DETAILS ON UPCOMING EVENTS: Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) Information Session - October 1 @ 2:45

On Tuesday 10/1/24 at 2:45 pm, Longfellow will hold a Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) admissions presentation in the Lecture Hall. TJHSST is a selective secondary high school, and students must submit an application, pass the admissions exam, and receive an acceptance to attend. To learn more about the TJHSST admissions process, visit TJHSST Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology Admissions | Fairfax County Public Schools (fcps.edu).
Please RSVP for the Longfellow session by completing this Google Form. Email Ms. Ricker at [email protected] with any questions.

Walk, Bike, & Roll to School Day

Wednesday, October 9th is the annual Walk, Bike, & Roll to School Day. We are encouraging all our Lancers, who are able, to bike, walk and roll to school. There are many benefits to active transport such as developing healthier habits, contributing to a cleaner environment, promoting pedestrian safety, and building a stronger sense of community. If you would like to learn more, please check out the Walk, Bike & Roll to School website: https://www.walkbiketoschool.org/learn-more/why-walkbike/. We hope to see you out there!

IMPORTANT INFORMATION 🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Register Today for a Community Conversation!

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid will host a series of Community Conversations this fall. She invites you to share your thoughts and ask questions. Click the dates below to register for any of the following conversations:

     • Monday, October 14, at Fairhill Elementary School
     • Monday, October 21, at Virginia Run Elementary School
     • Wednesday, October 30, at Herndon Middle School

Events take place from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Childcare and language interpretation services will be provided.

Gun Safety and Safe Gun Storage

Providing students and staff with a safe educational environment remains our priority. Sadly, gun violence continues to impact schools and communities across our nation.

In FCPS, lessons on gun safety are built into our curriculum. It is critical that parents and guardians talk to their children about the importance of gun safety and safe gun storage in their homes, and in any home they may visit.

The FCPS website has gun safety resources as well as information about safety and security practices at schools. See Dr. Reid’s recent letter to the community for more resources.

Safely Store Firearms and Medications

The Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board has a limited supply of free locking medication boxes and trigger locks that fit a wide variety of firearms. Visit the Lock and Talk website to learn more.

Safeway Pharmacy Immunization Clinics

Safeway Pharmacy will be providing immunizations for all FCPS students at no cost! Parents or guardians may schedule an appointment and provide consent for their student(s). The immunization clinics are being held at Frost Middle School, 4101 Pickett Rd. Fairfax, VA 22032, on:
     · Tuesday, October 8, 3 to 7 p.m.
     · Saturday, October 12, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Students under the age of 19, with a scheduled appointment and parental consent, must be accompanied by their parent, guardian, or another adult over the age of 18.

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

FCPS News - ICYMI

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:
• FCPS Strives to Become Purple Star School Division
• Sign and Return SR&R
• Upcoming Immunization Clinics
• Family Resource Webinars

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

AFTER SCHOOL CORNER

We will have after-school activities and late buses tomorrow, October 2nd.

Schedule

Our most updated after-school schedule can be found here.

Late buses

Late buses are offered Monday - Thursday. Buses typically leave Longfellow between 4:30p.m. - 4:45p.m.

Python Symphony - Python Coding Club

Are you interested in Python? Python Symphony will begin on Tuesday, October 15th
during 1st Block.

Congratulations Cross Country!

Our cross-country team competed last Saturday at Herndon MS. Our boys team finished first, and our girls team finished second overall for the second week in a row!

Top 5 Finishers - Boys:
Grant Dougherty
George Nguyen
Declan Nguyen
Mathis Laree
AJ Samson

Top 5 Finishers - Girls:
Gabriella Le Moigne
Riya Alalasundaram
Olivia Cho
Claire Klein
Alexandra Wynn

2000 Westmoreland Street, Falls Church, VA 22043  | Main Office: 703-533-2600
Attendance: 703-533-2626 | Web | Twitter