FCPS

From the School Administration

Dear Belvedere Families,

We had a full week of fun and learning at Belvedere! Our fifth graders were excited to select their courses for next school year, while our kindergarteners continued to sharpen their reading skills. We also had a visit from our former Belvedere Bulldogs, the Glasgow Middle School and Justice High School orchestra performed for our 4th and 5th graders. It’s amazing to see our students growing and preparing for their next steps!

We are also wrapping up the WIDA Assessment for our Multilingual Learners—our students have worked so hard, and we are so proud of their efforts!

Looking ahead, we’re excited for our second PTA Movie Night next week! The PTA will be popping popcorn, so bring your family and join us for a fun evening watching Inside Out 2! We can’t wait to see you there.

Wishing you all a wonderful weekend!

Best,

Cecilia Vanderhye, Principal

Tara Boone, Assistant Principal

Kelly Cabezas, Assistant Principal

Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes, on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring, essay editing, and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

Message from Belvedere's Registrar

If you have a child who turns 5 years old by September 30, 2025, they will be eligible to attend Kindergarten for the 2025-26 school year. If you have any rising Kindergarten students, please be sure to complete the Survey of Pre School Children Form that is linked below and send in to the front office, attention of Mandy Belcher, School Registrar.

Survey of Preschool Children.pdf

[SPANISH] Survey of Preschool Children.pdf

Kindergarten Registration for the 2025-26 School Year is Now Open!

If you have a child who will be 5 years old by September 30, they are eligible to attend Kindergarten for the upcoming year. 

Registration paperwork can be downloaded at https://www.fcps.edu/sites/default/files/media/forms/Enroll_Pre-Kindergarten_Experience.pdf.  Once you have completed the paperwork and gathered the required documents, please come into the front office to meet with our registrar, Mrs. Mandy Belcher ([email protected]).

Alternatively, you can now choose to use our online registration tool https://www.fcps.edu/online-registration.  If you choose the online option, you will then have to come into the office with the child’s original birth certificate, your proof of residence (deed/lease) and your ID.

Please note the Commonwealth of VA medical form (showing immunizations and physical exam) can be submitted at a later date, as long as we have this by August 15, 2025 at the latest.

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to reach out to Mrs. Belcher.

Early registration is strongly encouraged.

  Can You Help with Family Movie Night Next Week?

We still need volunteers to help PTA leaders coordinate our next Belvedere Family Movie Night on Feb. 27. We will be showing the very popular Pixar movie Inside Out 2!  Could you help sell concessions or pop popcorn? Drop a note to Belvedere PTA at [email protected] if you can help make this event another special experience for our school community.  PTA funds make this event possible and we need volunteers to make it work.  Other upcoming events and needs:

• Now-March 10: Spirit Wear Sale (online)
• Feb. 27: Family Movie Night * Volunteers Needed
• March 6: March Community Meeting 
• March: Spring Auction * Volunteers Needed
• March 12: Phone Readiness Event (Dinner and child care included) * Volunteers Needed
• March 20: Belvedere Ballers (BES basketball event at Glasgow) * Volunteers Needed

Interested in helping with any of these upcoming events? Send a note to [email protected] or sign up via the link provided and we will put you in touch with the coordinator. We especially need help for the Spring Auction – our biggest fundraising event of the year.

It's cold outside, but we are already thinking Spring (yes, Spring!). The Spring Spirit Wear sale is now open. Choose from t-shirts, sweatshirts and long sleeves -- in both adult and children's styles -- in blue, tie-dye and hot pink.

All sales benefit PTA's efforts to support year-round student and teacher needs. Allow approximately 3-4 weeks after orders close on March 10 for delivery. 

Can you Donate to the Spring Auction?  

We are preparing for the Belvedere PTA Spring Auction - one of our biggest events of the year. Proceeds from this fundraiser help fund field trip buses, teacher appreciation support and community events like next week's Movie Night.

Do you have a donation you can contribute to the auction? Let us know by emailing [email protected].

Donations can range from

-- Tickets for events, shows, movies or experiences

-- Complimentary lessons or discounts on lessons

-- Unique gift baskets

-- Restaurant and business gift cards

-- Services for fitness, beauty, health and wellness

-- Art

-- Sports memorabilia

-- And more! We love creative ideas

Want to help? We need volunteers NOW who can spare **60 minutes** to e-mail local businesses for donations. We'll give you the template and the contacts. If you can help, please us know by emailing [email protected].

Join us for a Screen Readiness Workshop: March 12

Belvedere PTA is excited to offer families the PTA Connected: Ready, Tech, Go! workshop on Wednesday, March 12, from 5:45-7:30 p.m. in the Belvedere cafeteria and online.

There will be an in-person meal from 5:45-6:30 p.m. and the active workshop time will be from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Child care, door prizes and activities will be provided for the in-person portion of this event.

During this educational event, Belvedere parents and caregivers will:

• Reflect on various aspects of screen readiness.
• Become familiar with tools and resources that help families determine screen readiness and discuss digital life.
• Gain new ideas to promote a healthy digital home.

We need volunteers to help make our event a success. Volunteers are needed for:

• Event planning and logistics
• Coordinating dinner (all expenses covered)
• Check in + registration (day of only)
• Caregiver room support (day of only, we have a team of babysitters!)
• Day-of room set up and/or clean up

Please sign up by March 5 if you’re interested in volunteering.

Registration is required to attend the in-person portion of this event so we can be sure to secure the right amount of food, chairs and child care. If you have any questions, please send a note to [email protected]

📐 Breaking Down the Budget: Supporting Academic Growth and Algebra by Eighth Grade

The FCPS Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Proposed Budget invests in academic growth and excellence for each and every student, which is one of the priorities of the FCPS Strategic Plan. 

Since the 2023-24 school year, FCPS has seen a 9.5% increase in eighth graders taking Algebra I or more advanced math and a 6.8% increase in fifth graders in advanced math.

Studies show that students who complete algebra in middle school have more opportunities to take advanced math and science courses in high school. This can open up new academic paths for students! Watch a video that shows why eighth grade algebra matters. 

Learn more about the FCPS FY 2026 Proposed Budget.

VDH Immunization Packets for Rising 7th Graders 

As required by the Code of Virginia, parents or legal guardians need to provide proof of immunizations for their child to attend public school. All students entering seventh grade are required to receive one dose of each of the following immunizations: 

• Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis booster (Tdap) given at age 7 or older.
• Meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY) given at age 10 or older.
• A complete series of 2 doses of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. 

• After reviewing educational materials approved by the Board of Health, the parent or guardian, at the parents/guardians sole discretion, may elect for the child not to receive the HPV vaccine.

Parents/guardians are encouraged to plan ahead by scheduling an appointment with their child’s health care provider now to avoid the rush this summer. If your child does not have a health care provider, please visit the FCPS Immunizations Resource page to find out where to get an immunization.

Please review the Virginia Department of Health Information Packet for more information on rising 7th grade immunization requirements.

🤧 Protect Yourself and Your Community From the Flu

Fairfax County is experiencing very high levels of influenza (flu) illness. The Fairfax County Health Department reports that visits to emergency departments and urgent care centers for flu-like illness have increased, especially among children, and multiple flu outbreaks have occurred in our community and school settings. Read a letter from the health department. 

The health department suggests taking the following steps to reduce the spread of flu and other germs:    

• Cover coughs and sneezes. If you must be around others while ill, wearing a mask can help reduce spread.
• Wash hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available (with supervision for younger children).
• Clean frequently touched surfaces.

According to the health department, to help prevent or reduce the spread of illness it is important for individuals who are sick to stay home and away from others until symptoms improve and until they have been free of fever for at least 24 hours. Visit this Attendance webpage for guidance on when your child should go to school.

🐻 It’s Kindergarten Registration Time!

Attending kindergarten provides children with an opportunity to learn and practice the essential social, emotional, problem-solving, and self-regulation skills they will use throughout their lives. Fairfax County public schools typically conduct kindergarten registration events, including orientation, between January and April. Eligible children can also be registered throughout the summer, but registering your child early helps us prepare and ensure we have the teachers and resources needed on the first day of school. 

Families should prepare for registration by gathering documents and completing forms on the FCPS kindergarten registration webpage. FCPS offers support and resources for all families to help with registration and the transition to kindergarten. For support in other languages, visit the kindergarten registration webpage.

✨ A strong start is Goal 1 of the 2023-30 Strategic Plan.

Student Fasting Meal Kits for February 28 - March 28

Thanks to a new program from the Virginia Department of Education, students who are fasting during the school day between February 28 and March 28 can now take school meal kits home at the end of the day.Families will need to fill out a weekly Fasting Meals Request Form for their child or children to receive school meal kits. A separate form must be filled out for each week and each student. To receive meal kits for Friday, February 28, and the week of March 3, please submit the first request form by Monday, February 24. Visit the FNS webpage for more information, including weekly request forms and deadlines.

🧥 Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

Winter weather is here! As a reminder, please make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy time outdoors. Schools monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories that may prevent children from being outside for activities like recess or physical education.

View Fairfax County’s Winter Weather/Extreme Cold safety tips. 

If you need assistance getting cold-weather clothing for your family, please contact our family liaison, Ivanova Plazas at [email protected]. You may also contact Fairfax County Coordinated Services Planning (CSP) at 703-222-0880. Their multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health care.

❄️ Be Among the First to Hear About School Delays/Closings

Watch this video to see how FCPS makes weather closing decisions. 

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 among the first to hear about weather delays and closings! Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE. Emails and text messages are sent to parents and caregivers based on the addresses and cell phone numbers entered on this platform.

🍲 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.

If you need further assistance please contact either Jeffrey Hewitt, Social Worker, or Belvedere's Family Liaison, Iva Plazas.

FCPS News

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

• Middle School Start Times
• New Lunch Items
• Talking to Teens About Tough Topics

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

Free and Reduced-Price Meals (FRM)

Learn more about the criteria and process to apply for free or reduced-price breakfast and lunch.

If you need assistance with the Free and Reduced-Meal application, please visit Belvedere's Family Liaison, Mrs. Plazas in the Parent Center or you may call her office at (703) 916-6824

FCPS CARES Program

The FCPS CARES Program allows parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees who go above and beyond to help others and show they care about their students, colleagues, and the community. We invite you to submit a story below to acknowledge the great work of an FCPS employee or group of employees who should receive FCPS CARES recognition. 

Please take note of the following before submitting an FCPS CARES:

• A notification email, with the submission text included, will be sent to the recipient(s) and copied to the recipient's supervisor(s). 
• All submissions will be posted to our FCPS CARES webpage and shared via other FCPS news outlets.
• Submissions containing personal or sensitive information may be edited to protect individuals' privacy.
• Feel free to compose your submission using a text editor such as Microsoft Word, and then paste it into the text box provided.

For questions, please email [email protected].

Read more and Submit an FCPS CARES today!

Belvedere is on Instagram

Welcome back, Belvedere families! 🎉 New school year, new Instagram account! 📸 We’re thrilled to share all the incredible moments ahead. Stay tuned and follow along!

https://www.instagram.com/belvedereelem/

 

Black History Month

Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing their central role in U.S. history.Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. Learn more about Black History month.

 

February Is Career and Technical Education Month

By enrolling in a Career and Technical Education (CTE) course or program, students learn the technical applications of many occupations while preparing for higher education or entry-level employment. A core program of CTE courses is offered in every middle and high school including Business and Information Technology, Family and Consumer Sciences, Health and Medical Sciences, Marketing, Technology and Engineering Education, and Trade and Industrial Education. Since this is an elective, course offerings may vary by school. Learn more on the FCPS CTE webpage. 

CTE also offers summer programs for students to explore their programs. Enroll now!

Upcoming Dates

• VSBA School Board Appreciation Month
  • Thank you to the Fairfax County School Board for all they do throughout the year. Want to contact your school board representatives to share your appreciation? Visit their website to find your school board member and contact them.

Keep in Touch

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6540 Columbia Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041 | Office: 703-916-6800
Attendance: 703-916-6868 | Web | Twitter

De la administración de la escuela

Estimadas familias de Belvedere:

¡Tuvimos una semana llena de diversión y aprendizaje en Belvedere! Nuestros alumnos de quinto grado estaban entusiasmados por seleccionar sus cursos para el próximo año escolar, mientras que nuestros alumnos de jardín de infantes continuaron afinando sus habilidades de lectura. También recibimos la visita de nuestros antiguos Bulldogs de Belvedere, la orquesta de la Escuela Secundaria de Glasgow y la Escuela Secundaria Justice tocaron para nuestros alumnos de cuarto y quinto grado. ¡Es increíble ver a nuestros alumnos crecer y prepararse para sus próximos pasos!

También estamos terminando la Evaluación WIDA para nuestros estudiantes multilingües: nuestros alumnos han trabajado muy duro y estamos muy orgullosos de sus esfuerzos.

De cara al futuro, ¡estamos entusiasmados por nuestra segunda Noche de Cine de la PTA la semana que viene! La PTA estará haciendo palomitas de maíz, así que trae a tu familia y únete a nosotros para una divertida noche viendo Inside Out 2. Estamos ansiosos por verte allí.

¡Les deseamos a todos un maravilloso fin de semana!

Saludos cordiales,

Cecilia Vanderhye, directora
Tara Boone, subdirectora
Kelly Cabezas, subdirectora

Varsity Tutors ofrece asistencia a pedido sin costo

FCPS se ha asociado con Varsity Tutors para brindarles a los estudiantes y a las familias recursos adicionales para el aprendizaje. Todos los estudiantes pueden aprovechar los servicios de Varsity Tutors sin costo, incluidas clases semanales en línea en vivo, tutoría por chat las 24 horas, los 7 días de la semana, edición de ensayos y recursos de estudio como contenido grabado, problemas de práctica y pruebas de diagnóstico. Obtenga más información sobre la tutoría en línea con Varsity Tutors.

Mensaje de la Registradora de Belvedere

Si tiene un niño que cumpla 5 años antes del 30 de septiembre de 2025, será elegible para asistir a Kindergarten durante el año escolar 2025-26. Si tiene algún estudiante que ingresará a Kindergarten, asegúrese de completar el Formulario de Encuesta de Niños en Edad Preescolar que se encuentra en el enlace a continuación y envíelo a la oficina principal, a la atención de Mandy Belcher, Registradora Escolar.

Survey of Preschool Children.pdf

[SPANISH] Survey of Preschool Children.pdf

¡La inscripción para Kindergarten del año escolar 2025-26 ya está abierta!

Si tiene un niño que cumplirá 5 años antes del 30 de septiembre, será elegible para asistir a Kindergarten el próximo año.

Los documentos de inscripción pueden descargarse en https://www.fcps.edu/sites/default/files/media/forms/Enroll_Pre-Kindergarten_Experience.pdf. Una vez que haya completado los formularios y reunido los documentos requeridos, visite la oficina principal para reunirse con nuestra registradora, la Sra. Mandy Belcher ([email protected]).

También puede optar por utilizar nuestra herramienta de inscripción en línea en https://www.fcps.edu/online-registration. Si elige la opción en línea, deberá acudir a la oficina con el certificado de nacimiento original del niño, su comprobante de residencia (escritura o contrato de arrendamiento) y su identificación.

Tenga en cuenta que el formulario médico del Commonwealth de Virginia (que muestra las vacunas y el examen físico) puede enviarse más tarde, siempre que lo entreguemos a más tardar el 15 de agosto de 2025.

Si tiene alguna pregunta, no dude en comunicarse con la Sra. Belcher.

Se recomienda encarecidamente realizar la inscripción anticipada.

 

¿Puedes ayudar con la noche de cine familiar la próxima semana?

Necesitamos voluntarios para ayudar a los líderes de la PTA a coordinar nuestra próxima Noche de Cine Familiar Belvedere el 27 de febrero. ¡Proyectaremos la muy popular película de Pixar Inside Out 2!  ¿Podrías ayudar a vender concesiones o hacer palomitas de maíz? Envíe una nota a la PTA de Belvedere a [email protected] si puede ayudar a que este evento sea otra experiencia especial para nuestra comunidad escolar.  Los fondos de la PTA hacen posible este evento y necesitamos voluntarios para que funcione.  

Próximos eventos y necesidades: 

• Ahora, 10 de marzo: Oferta de ropa espiritual (en línea)
• 27 de febrero: Noche de cine familiar * Se necesitan voluntarios
• 6 de marzo: Reunión comunitaria de marzo 
• Marzo: Subasta de primavera * Se necesitan voluntarios
• 12 de marzo: Evento de preparación telefónica (cena y cuidado de niños incluidos) * Se necesitan voluntarios
• 20 de marzo: Belvedere Ballers (evento de baloncesto BES en Glasgow) * Se necesitan voluntarios

¿Interesado en ayudar con alguno de estos próximos eventos? Envíe una nota a [email protected] o regístrese a través del enlace proporcionado y lo pondremos en contacto con el coordinador. Necesitamos ayuda especialmente para la Subasta de Primavera, nuestro mayor evento de recaudación de fondos del año.

 

Afuera hace frío, pero ya estamos pensando en la primavera (¡sí, primavera!). La venta de Spring Spirit Wear ya está abierta. Elija entre camisetas, sudaderas y mangas largas, tanto en estilos para adultos como para niños, en azul, teñido anudado y rosa fuerte.

Todas las ventas benefician los esfuerzos de la PTA para apoyar las necesidades de estudiantes y maestros durante todo el año. Espere aproximadamente de 3 a 4 semanas después del cierre de pedidos el 10 de marzo para la entrega: https://belvedere25.itemorder.com/shop/home/

¿Puedes donar a la subasta de primavera?  

Nos estamos preparando para la subasta de primavera de la PTA de Belvedere, uno de nuestros eventos más importantes del año. Las ganancias de esta recaudación de fondos ayudarán a financiar autobuses para excursiones, apoyo para agradecer a los maestros y eventos comunitarios como la Noche de Cine de la próxima semana.

¿Tienes una donación que puedas contribuir a la subasta? Háganos saber enviando un correo electrónico a [email protected].

Las donaciones pueden variar desde

-- Entradas para eventos, espectáculos, películas o experiencias.

-- Lecciones de cortesía o descuentos en lecciones.

- Cestas de regalo únicas.

- Tarjetas de regalo para restaurantes y empresas.

-- Servicios de fitness, belleza, salud y bienestar.

-- Arte

-- Recuerdos deportivos

-- ¡Y más! Nos encantan las ideas creativas.

¿Quieres ayudar? Necesitamos voluntarios AHORA que puedan dedicar **60 minutos** para enviar correos electrónicos a empresas locales solicitando donaciones. Te daremos la plantilla y los contactos. Si puede ayudar, infórmenos enviando un correo electrónico a [email protected].

Únase a nosotros para un taller de preparación para la pantalla: 12 de marzo

La PTA de Belvedere se complace en ofrecer a las familias el PTA Connected: Ready, Tech, Go! Taller el miércoles 12 de marzo, de 5:45 a 7:30 p.m. en la cafetería Belvedere y en línea. Habrá una comida en persona de 5:45 a 6:30 p.m. y el horario del taller activo será de 6:30 a 7:30 p.m. Se proporcionará cuidado de niños, premios y actividades para la parte presencial de este evento. Durante este evento educativo, los padres y cuidadores de Belvedere: 

• Reflexionarán sobre varios aspectos de la preparación para la pantalla.
• Familiarícese con las herramientas y los recursos que ayudan a las familias a determinar la preparación para la pantalla y a hablar sobre la vida digital.
• Obtenga nuevas ideas para promover un hogar digital saludable.

Necesitamos voluntarios para ayudar a que nuestro evento sea un éxito. Se necesitan voluntarios para: 

• Planificación y logística de eventos Coordinación de la cena (todos los gastos cubiertos) 
• Check in + registro (solo el día de) 
• Apoyo en la habitación del cuidador (solo el día de, ¡tenemos un equipo de niñeras!) 
• Día de montaje y/o limpieza de la habitación

Inscríbete antes del 5 de marzo si estás interesado en ser voluntario.

Se requiere inscripción para asistir a la parte presencial de este evento, por lo que podemos estar seguros de asegurar la cantidad correcta de comida, sillas y cuidado de niños. Si tiene alguna pregunta, envíe una nota a [email protected].

📐 Desglose del presupuesto: apoyo al crecimiento académico y al álgebra para octavo grado

El presupuesto propuesto para el año fiscal 2026 de FCPS invierte en el crecimiento académico y la excelencia para todos y cada uno de los estudiantes, que es una de las prioridades del plan estratégico de FCPS.

Desde el año escolar 2023-24, FCPS ha visto un aumento del 9,5 % en los estudiantes de octavo grado que toman Álgebra I o matemáticas más avanzadas y un aumento del 6,8 % en los estudiantes de quinto grado en matemáticas avanzadas.

Los estudios muestran que los estudiantes que completan álgebra en la escuela secundaria tienen más oportunidades de tomar cursos avanzados de matemáticas y ciencias en la escuela secundaria. ¡Esto puede abrir nuevos caminos académicos para los estudiantes! Vea un video que muestra por qué es importante el álgebra de octavo grado.

Obtenga más información sobre el presupuestopropuesto para el año fiscal 2026 de FCPS.

Paquetes de vacunación del VDH para alumnos que ingresan al séptimo grado

Según lo exige el Código de Virginia, los padres o tutores legales deben proporcionar un comprobante de las vacunas de su hijo para poder asistir a la escuela pública. Todos los estudiantes que ingresan al séptimo grado deben recibir una dosis de cada una de las siguientes vacunas:

• Vacuna de refuerzo contra el tétanos, la difteria y la tos ferina (Tdap) administrada a los 7 años o más.
• Vacuna antimeningocócica (MenACWY) administrada a los 10 años o más.
• Una serie completa de 2 dosis de la vacuna contra el virus del papiloma humano (VPH).
• Después de revisar los materiales educativos aprobados por la Junta de Salud, el padre o tutor, a su exclusivo criterio, puede optar por que el niño no reciba la vacuna contra el VPH.

Se recomienda a los padres o tutores que planifiquen con anticipación programando una cita con el proveedor de atención médica de su hijo ahora para evitar las prisas este verano. Si su hijo no cuenta con un proveedor de atención médica, visite la página de recursos de vacunación de FCPS para averiguar dónde obtener una vacuna.

Revise el paquete de información del Departamento de Salud de Virginia para obtener más información sobre los requisitos de vacunación para los estudiantes que ingresan al séptimo grado.

🤧 Protéjase a sí mismo y a su comunidad de la gripe

El condado de Fairfax está experimentando niveles muy altos de enfermedad por influenza (gripe). El Departamento de Salud del Condado de Fairfax informa que las visitas a los departamentos de emergencia y centros de atención de urgencia por enfermedades similares a la gripe han aumentado, especialmente entre los niños, y se han producido múltiples brotes de gripe en nuestra comunidad y entornos escolares. Lea una carta del departamento de salud.

El departamento de salud sugiere tomar las siguientes medidas para reducir la propagación de la gripe y otros gérmenes:

Cubra la boca al toser y estornudar. Si debe estar cerca de otras personas mientras está enfermo, usar una mascarilla puede ayudar a reducir la propagación.
Lávese las manos con frecuencia con agua y jabón durante 20 segundos. Use desinfectantes para manos a base de alcohol cuando no haya agua y jabón disponibles (con supervisión para los niños más pequeños).
Limpie las superficies que se tocan con frecuencia.

Según el departamento de salud, para ayudar a prevenir o reducir la propagación de la enfermedad, es importante que las personas enfermas se queden en casa y alejadas de los demás hasta que los síntomas mejoren y hasta que hayan estado libres de fiebre durante al menos 24 horas. Visite esta página web de Asistencia para obtener orientación sobre cuándo debe ir su hijo a la escuela.

🐻 ¡Es el Momento de Inscribirse para el Kindergarten!

Asistir al kindergarten ofrece a los niños la oportunidad de aprender y practicar las habilidades sociales, emocionales, de resolución de problemas y de autorregulación esenciales que usarán durante toda su vida. Las escuelas públicas del Condado de Fairfax normalmente llevan a cabo eventos de inscripción para kindergarten-incluyendo orientación-en la primavera durante Lunes o Abril. Los niños elegibles también pueden inscribirse durante el verano, pero inscribir a su hijo temprano ayuda a las escuelas a prepararse y asegurarse de que tengan a mano los maestros y recursos que necesitan el primer día de clases. 

Después de determinar a qué escuela asistirá su hijo, las familias deben prepararse para la inscripción reuniendo documentos y completando formularios, los detalles se pueden encontrar en la página web de inscripción de kindergarten de FCPS. FCPS ofrece apoyo y recursos para todas las familias para ayudar con la inscripción y la transición al kindergarten. Para apoyo en otros idiomas, visite la página web de inscripción de kindergarten.

Kits de comida para estudiantes en ayunas del 28 de febrero al 28 de marzo

Gracias a un nuevo programa del Departamento de Educación de Virginia, los estudiantes que estén en ayunas durante la jornada escolar entre el 28 de febrero y el 28 de marzo ahora pueden llevarse a casa los kits de comida escolar al final del día.

Las familias deberán completar un formulario de solicitud de comidas para estudiantes en ayunas semanal para que sus hijos reciban kits de comida escolar. Se debe completar un formulario por separado para cada semana y para cada estudiante.

Para recibir kits de comida para el viernes 28 de febrero y la semana del 3 de marzo, envíe el primer formulario de solicitud antes del lunes 24 de febrero. Visite la página web de FNS para obtener más información, incluidos los formularios de solicitud semanales y las fechas límite.

🧥 Mantenga a su hijo abrigado durante las actividades al aire libre

¡El clima invernal ya llegó! Como recordatorio, asegúrese de que su hijo esté vestido apropiadamente con un abrigo abrigado y otra ropa para clima frío, para que pueda disfrutar cómodamente del tiempo al aire libre. Las escuelas monitorean el clima para detectar bajas temperaturas, avisos y advertencias de sensación térmica y avisos meteorológicos que pueden impedir que los niños estén afuera para actividades como el recreo o la educación física.

Vea los consejos de seguridad para el clima invernal y el frío extremo del condado de Fairfax.

Si necesita ayuda para conseguir ropa para clima frío para su familia, comuníquese con nuestra enlace familiar, Ivanova Plazas, en [email protected]. También puede comunicarse con la Planificación de Servicios Coordinados (CSP) del condado de Fairfax al 703-222-0880. Su personal multilingüe puede ayudarlo con cualquier desafío que esté enfrentando, incluidos alimentos, refugio, empleo, asistencia financiera y atención médica.

❄️ Sea uno de los primeros en enterarse de los retrasos/cierres de escuelas

Mire este video para ver como FCPS toma decisiones sobre cierres por mal tiempo. 

El sitio web de FCPS es generalmente el primer lugar para enterarse de los cierres de emergencia por el clima. Otros canales de comunicación serán usados lo más pronto posible, incluyendo correo electrónico, texto, medios sociales, y estaciones de noticias. Aprenda más sobre cómo se comunican los cambios de horario.Sea uno de los primeros en enterarse de los retrasos y cierres por mal tiempo. Actualice su información de contacto en SIS ParentVUE. Los correos electrónicos y mensajes de texto se envían a los padres en función de las direcciones y números de teléfono móvil introducidos en esta plataforma.

🍲 Asistencia Alimentaria y Guía de Recursos

La inseguridad alimentaria impacta a más de 96,000 residentes del Condado de Fairfax. Hay muchos recursos disponibles para apoyar a aquellos que necesitan asistencia alimentaria. Aprenda cómo ayudar a estas familias y los muchos recursos disponibles para apoyar a aquellos que necesitan asistencia alimentaria en el sitio web del Condado de Fairfax, o consulte la Guía de Recursos de Servicios Humanos del condado.

Noticias de FCPS

En caso de que te lo hayas perdido, en FCPS This Week, la división escolar compartió actualizaciones sobre los siguientes temas y otros:

• Horarios de inicio de clases en la escuela secundaria
• Nuevos artículos para el almuerzo
• Cómo hablar con los adolescentes sobre temas difíciles

Lee FCPS This Week para obtener más información sobre estos temas. Si aún no recibes este boletín semanal, regístrate hoy.

Comidas gratuitas o a precio reducido (FRM)

Obtenga más información sobre los criterios y el proceso para solicitar desayuno y almuerzo gratuitos o a precio reducido.

Si necesita ayuda con la solicitud de comidas gratuitas o a precio reducido, visite a la coordinadora familiar de Belvedere, la Sra. Plazas, en el Centro para padres o puede llamar a su oficina al (703) 916-6824.

Programa FCPS CARES

El Programa FCPS CARES permite a los padres, el personal y los miembros de la comunidad reconocer a los empleados de FCPS que hacen todo lo posible para ayudar a los demás y demostrar que se preocupan por sus estudiantes, colegas y la comunidad. Lo invitamos a enviar una historia a continuación para reconocer el gran trabajo de un empleado o grupo de empleados de FCPS que deberían recibir el reconocimiento FCPS CARES.

Tenga en cuenta lo siguiente antes de enviar un FCPS CARES:

• Se enviará un correo electrónico de notificación, con el texto del envío incluido, a los destinatarios y se copiará al supervisor del destinatario.
• Todos los envíos se publicarán en nuestra página web FCPS CARES y se compartirán a través de otros medios de comunicación de FCPS.
• Los envíos que contengan información personal o confidencial pueden editarse para proteger la privacidad de las personas.
• No dude en redactar su envío utilizando un editor de texto como Microsoft Word y luego péguelo en el cuadro de texto que se proporciona a continuación.

Si tiene preguntas, envíe un correo electrónico a [email protected].

¡Lea más y envíe un FCPS CARES hoy mismo!

Belvedere está en Instagram

¡Bienvenidos nuevamente, familias de Belvedere! 🎉 ¡Nuevo año escolar, nueva cuenta de Instagram! 📸 Estamos encantados de compartir todos los momentos increíbles que nos esperan. ¡Estén atentos y sígannos!

https://www.instagram.com/belvedereelem/

 

El Mes de la Historia Afroamericana

El Mes de la Historia Afroestadounidense es una celebración anual de los logros de los Afroestadounidenses y un tiempo para reconocer su papel central en la historia de los Estados Unidos.

Aprenda más sobre los meses de herencia, celebraciones, y tradiciones celebradas en FCPS.

Aprenda más sobre el mes de la Historia Afroestadounidense.

 

Febrero es el Mes de la Educación Profesional y Técnica

Al inscribirse en un curso o programa de Educación Profesional y Técnica “Career and Technical Education” (CTE), los estudiantes aprenden las aplicaciones técnicas de muchas ocupaciones mientras se preparan para la educación superior o para un empleo de nivel inicial. En todas las escuelas intermedias y secundarias se ofrece un programa básico de cursos de CTE que incluye Negocios y Tecnología de la Información, Familia y Ciencias del Consumidor, Salud y Ciencias Médicas, Comercialización, Tecnología y Educación en Ingeniería, Comercio y Educación Industrial. Siendo una asignatura optativa, la oferta de cursos puede variar según la escuela. Obtenga más información en el sitio web de CTE. 

CTE también ofrece programas de verano para que los estudiantes exploren sus programas. ¡Inscríbete ahora!

Próximas fechas

• Mes de Agradecimiento a la Junta Escolar de VSBA

• Gracias a la Junta Escolar del Condado de Fairfax por todo lo que hacen a lo largo del año. ¿Quiere contactar a sus representantes de la junta escolar para compartir su aprecio? Visite su sitio web para encontrar a su miembro de la junta escolar y ponerse en contacto con ellos.

Mantenerse en contacto

Visita el sitio web de Belvedere

Informar ausencias de estudiantes

Sitio web de FCPS Bus Delay

Sigue a Belvedere en Twitter

Cambia tus preferencias de correo electrónico

6540 Columbia Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041 | Office: 703-916-6800
Attendance: 703-916-6868 | Web | Twitter

Student Fasting Meal Kits for February 28 - March 28, 2025

The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) has issued a new, first-time waiver allowing students fasting during the school day from February 28 to March 28, 2025, to request take-home breakfast and lunch meal kits. The Office of Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) will provide meal kits reflecting the school menu. Meals will be kept cold and must be heated at home. Students may claim one breakfast and one lunch kit per day. If a student purchases breakfast or lunch at school, they cannot pick up a kit that day. Meal kits must be picked up by students at the end of the school day—adults cannot collect them. Parents or guardians must submit a weekly request form via the FCPS FNS website by the deadlines:

• February 24, 2025, for February 28 and the week of March 3, 2025
• March 3, 2025, for the week of March 10, 2025
• March 10, 2025, for the week of March 17, 2025
• March 17, 2025, for the week of March 24, 2025

Forms must be submitted on time to receive meal kits for the following week.

6540 Columbia Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041 | Office: 703-916-6800
Attendance: 703-916-6868 | Web | Twitter

De la administración de la escuela

Estimadas familias de Belvedere:

¡Feliz día de San Valentín! ❤️ Nos gustaría extender un gran agradecimiento a nuestra maravillosa Asociación de Padres y Maestros (PTA) por brindar café y donas para nuestro personal hoy. ¡Realmente lo apreciamos!

A pesar de que esta fue una semana corta con dos días de salida temprana y un día de nieve, nuestro tiempo en la escuela estuvo lleno de aprendizaje. El jueves, celebramos el día 100 de clases, que fue un evento especialmente importante para nuestros niños de jardín de infantes. Los estudiantes participaron en actividades prácticas, contando y resolviendo problemas con una variedad de conjuntos de 100 elementos diferentes.

Cada minuto en la escuela cuenta y alentamos a los estudiantes a asistir tantos días como sea posible para maximizar el aprendizaje. Sin embargo, entendemos que la temporada de gripe está en pleno apogeo y, a veces, quedarse en casa es necesario. Recuerde que los estudiantes pueden regresar a la escuela una vez que hayan estado libres de fiebre durante 24 horas sin medicación. Si tiene alguna pregunta sobre cuándo puede regresar su hijo después de estar enfermo, no dude en llamar a la escuela; estaremos encantados de trabajar con usted para apoyar el aprendizaje de su hijo.

¡Gracias por su colaboración y esperamos que tenga un maravilloso día de San Valentín!

Saludos cordiales,

Cecilia Vanderhye, directora
Tara Boone, subdirectora
Kelly Cabezas, subdirectora

Varsity Tutors ofrece asistencia a pedido sin costo

FCPS se ha asociado con Varsity Tutors para brindarles a los estudiantes y a las familias recursos adicionales para el aprendizaje. Todos los estudiantes pueden aprovechar los servicios de Varsity Tutors sin costo, incluidas clases semanales en línea en vivo, tutoría por chat las 24 horas, los 7 días de la semana, edición de ensayos y recursos de estudio como contenido grabado, problemas de práctica y pruebas de diagnóstico. Obtenga más información sobre la tutoría en línea con Varsity Tutors.

Mensaje de la Registradora de Belvedere

Si tiene un niño que cumpla 5 años antes del 30 de septiembre de 2025, será elegible para asistir a Kindergarten durante el año escolar 2025-26. Si tiene algún estudiante que ingresará a Kindergarten, asegúrese de completar el Formulario de Encuesta de Niños en Edad Preescolar que se encuentra en el enlace a continuación y envíelo a la oficina principal, a la atención de Mandy Belcher, Registradora Escolar.

Survey of Preschool Children.pdf

[SPANISH] Survey of Preschool Children.pdf

¡La inscripción para Kindergarten del año escolar 2025-26 ya está abierta!

Si tiene un niño que cumplirá 5 años antes del 30 de septiembre, será elegible para asistir a Kindergarten el próximo año.

Los documentos de inscripción pueden descargarse en https://www.fcps.edu/sites/default/files/media/forms/Enroll_Pre-Kindergarten_Experience.pdf. Una vez que haya completado los formularios y reunido los documentos requeridos, visite la oficina principal para reunirse con nuestra registradora, la Sra. Mandy Belcher ([email protected]).

También puede optar por utilizar nuestra herramienta de inscripción en línea en https://www.fcps.edu/online-registration. Si elige la opción en línea, deberá acudir a la oficina con el certificado de nacimiento original del niño, su comprobante de residencia (escritura o contrato de arrendamiento) y su identificación.

Tenga en cuenta que el formulario médico del Commonwealth de Virginia (que muestra las vacunas y el examen físico) puede enviarse más tarde, siempre que lo entreguemos a más tardar el 15 de agosto de 2025.

Si tiene alguna pregunta, no dude en comunicarse con la Sra. Belcher.

Se recomienda encarecidamente realizar la inscripción anticipada.

 

Se necesita ayuda para la noche de cine familiar, 27 de febrero (¡Reserve la fecha!) 

Necesitamos 2 personas para coordinar con los líderes de la PTA para nuestra próxima Noche de Cine Familiar Belvedere el 27 de febrero. ¡Proyectaremos la muy popular película de Pixar Inside Out 2! El compromiso de tiempo para los clientes potenciales de la Noche de cine será de menos de 5 horas en total, incluidas aproximadamente 2,5 horas para las necesidades del día del evento. También necesitaremos de 2 a 3 personas para ayudar a preparar, vender concesiones y repartir palomitas de maíz el 27 de febrero. Envíe una nota a la PTA de Belvedere a [email protected]m si puede ayudar a que este evento sea otra experiencia especial para nuestra comunidad escolar.  Los fondos de la PTA hacen posible este evento, pero necesitamos voluntarios para que funcione.

• Del 19 de febrero al 10 de marzo: Venta de ropa espiritual (en línea)
• 27 de febrero: Noche de cine familiar * Se necesitan voluntarios
• 6 de marzo: Reunión comunitaria de marzo 
• 12 de marzo: Evento de preparación telefónica (cena y cuidado de niños incluidos) * Se necesitan voluntarios
• 20 de marzo: Belvedere Ballers (evento de baloncesto BES en Glasgow) * Se necesitan voluntarios
• Marzo por determinar - Subasta de primavera * Se necesitan voluntarios

¿Interesado en ayudar con alguno de estos próximos eventos? Envíe una nota a [email protected] o regístrese a través del enlace proporcionado y lo pondremos en contacto con el coordinador. Necesitamos ayuda especialmente para la Subasta de Primavera, nuestro mayor evento de recaudación de fondos del año.

Únase a nosotros para un taller de preparación para la pantalla: 12 de marzo

La PTA de Belvedere se complace en ofrecer a las familias el PTA Connected: Ready, Tech, Go! Taller el miércoles 12 de marzo, de 5:45 a 7:30 p.m. en la cafetería Belvedere y en línea. Habrá una comida en persona de 5:45 a 6:30 p.m. y el horario del taller activo será de 6:30 a 7:30 p.m. Se proporcionará cuidado de niños, premios y actividades para la parte presencial de este evento. Durante este evento educativo, los padres y cuidadores de Belvedere: 

• Reflexionarán sobre varios aspectos de la preparación para la pantalla.
• Familiarícese con las herramientas y los recursos que ayudan a las familias a determinar la preparación para la pantalla y a hablar sobre la vida digital.
• Obtenga nuevas ideas para promover un hogar digital saludable.

Necesitamos voluntarios para ayudar a que nuestro evento sea un éxito. Se necesitan voluntarios para: 

• Planificación y logística de eventos Coordinación de la cena (todos los gastos cubiertos) 
• Check in + registro (solo el día de) 
• Apoyo en la habitación del cuidador (solo el día de, ¡tenemos un equipo de niñeras!) 
• Día de montaje y/o limpieza de la habitación

Inscríbete antes del 5 de marzo si estás interesado en ser voluntario.

Se requiere inscripción para asistir a la parte presencial de este evento, por lo que podemos estar seguros de asegurar la cantidad correcta de comida, sillas y cuidado de niños. Si tiene alguna pregunta, envíe una nota a [email protected].

 

Desglose del presupuesto: inversión en nuestras aulas

¿Sabía que más del 85 % del presupuesto de FCPS se destina a nuestras aulas? Actualmente, el 92,5 % del personal de FCPS trabaja en las escuelas, más que en los distritos escolares vecinos.

Estamos en medio del proceso de presupuesto anual de FCPS, que incluye oportunidades para que usted brinde comentarios. Obtenga más información sobre el presupuesto propuesto para el año fiscal 2026 de FCPS y vea el cronograma del presupuesto.

🏗️ Los proyectos de construcción de FCPS ofrecen beneficios para toda la comunidad

La Junta Escolar del Condado de Fairfax aprobó la actualización anual del Programa de Mejoras de Capital (CIP) del año fiscal 2026-30 de FCPS en su reunión regular de la junta la semana pasada. Un CIP es un documento de presupuesto de trabajo que muestra el cronograma y los costos de las mejoras a los edificios escolares, como renovaciones, ampliaciones y nuevas escuelas. Obtenga más información sobre las mejoras planificadas.

Los planes actualizados de las Escuelas Públicas del Condado de Fairfax para la construcción de nuevas escuelas, las mejoras de capacidad y las renovaciones se describen en el CIP. Los proyectos incluyen la construcción de dos nuevas escuelas primarias; renovaciones en 18 escuelas primarias, dos escuelas intermedias y dos escuelas secundarias; y la reubicación de edificios modulares.

🤧 Protéjase a sí mismo y a su comunidad de la gripe

El condado de Fairfax está experimentando niveles muy altos de enfermedad por influenza (gripe). El Departamento de Salud del Condado de Fairfax informa que las visitas a los departamentos de emergencia y centros de atención de urgencia por enfermedades similares a la gripe han aumentado, especialmente entre los niños, y se han producido múltiples brotes de gripe en nuestra comunidad y entornos escolares. Lea una carta del departamento de salud.

El departamento de salud sugiere tomar las siguientes medidas para reducir la propagación de la gripe y otros gérmenes:

Cubra la boca al toser y estornudar. Si debe estar cerca de otras personas mientras está enfermo, usar una mascarilla puede ayudar a reducir la propagación.
Lávese las manos con frecuencia con agua y jabón durante 20 segundos. Use desinfectantes para manos a base de alcohol cuando no haya agua y jabón disponibles (con supervisión para los niños más pequeños).
Limpie las superficies que se tocan con frecuencia.

Según el departamento de salud, para ayudar a prevenir o reducir la propagación de la enfermedad, es importante que las personas enfermas se queden en casa y alejadas de los demás hasta que los síntomas mejoren y hasta que hayan estado libres de fiebre durante al menos 24 horas. Visite esta página web de Asistencia para obtener orientación sobre cuándo debe ir su hijo a la escuela.

¡Es el Momento de Inscribirse para el Kindergarten!

Asistir al kindergarten ofrece a los niños la oportunidad de aprender y practicar las habilidades sociales, emocionales, de resolución de problemas y de autorregulación esenciales que usarán durante toda su vida. Las escuelas públicas del Condado de Fairfax normalmente llevan a cabo eventos de inscripción para kindergarten-incluyendo orientación-en la primavera durante Lunes o Abril. Los niños elegibles también pueden inscribirse durante el verano, pero inscribir a su hijo temprano ayuda a las escuelas a prepararse y asegurarse de que tengan a mano los maestros y recursos que necesitan el primer día de clases. 

Después de determinar a qué escuela asistirá su hijo, las familias deben prepararse para la inscripción reuniendo documentos y completando formularios, los detalles se pueden encontrar en la página web de inscripción de kindergarten de FCPS. FCPS ofrece apoyo y recursos para todas las familias para ayudar con la inscripción y la transición al kindergarten. Para apoyo en otros idiomas, visite la página web de inscripción de kindergarten.

Obtenga más información sobre cómo se siente su hijo en la escuela

En marzo, se administrará la evaluación de aprendizaje social y emocional (SEL) a los estudiantes de 3.º a 12.º grado. Los estudiantes usan la evaluación SEL dos veces al año para compartir sus perspectivas sobre cómo su escuela y su comunidad los ayudan a desarrollar las habilidades que necesitan para tener éxito. La evaluación funciona haciendo preguntas o presentando afirmaciones en las que los estudiantes pueden pensar y responder. Esto les brinda a los estudiantes una manera de compartir cómo su comunidad escolar los hace sentir valorados, incluidos y apoyados.

Después de cada evaluación, los resultados están disponibles en la pestaña Documentos de SIS ParentVUE y se envían por correo a las familias que no tienen una cuenta ParentVUE. Para obtener más información, incluidas las preguntas de la evaluación SEL y la información para darse de baja, visite la página web de la evaluación de aprendizaje social y emocional (SEL).

Kits de comida para estudiantes en ayunas del 28 de febrero al 28 de marzo

Gracias a un nuevo programa del Departamento de Educación de Virginia, los estudiantes que estén en ayunas durante la jornada escolar entre el 28 de febrero y el 28 de marzo ahora pueden llevarse a casa los kits de comida escolar al final del día.

Las familias deberán completar un formulario de solicitud de comidas para estudiantes en ayunas semanal para que sus hijos reciban kits de comida escolar. Se debe completar un formulario por separado para cada semana y para cada estudiante.

Para recibir kits de comida para el viernes 28 de febrero y la semana del 3 de marzo, envíe el primer formulario de solicitud antes del lunes 24 de febrero. Visite la página web de FNS para obtener más información, incluidos los formularios de solicitud semanales y las fechas límite.

 

Asegúrese de que sus hijos estén al día con las vacunas

Asegúrese de que su hijo tenga todas las vacunas necesarias. Recuerde que todos los estudiantes deben estar vacunados contra ciertas enfermedades para asistir a la escuela en Virginia. ¡Esto es una parte importante para mantener a los niños saludables!

A partir del lunes 19 de mayo, los estudiantes que no hayan presentado un comprobante de vacunación podrían no poder asistir a la escuela. Puede verificar el estado de vacunación de su hijo y enviar información actualizada sobre la vacunación accediendo a SIS ParentVUE.

Consulte con su proveedor de atención médica para asegurarse de que su hijo esté al día con las vacunas requeridas para el año escolar 2024-25. Si su hijo necesita una vacuna, programe una cita con su proveedor de atención médica, visite el sitio web del Departamento de Salud del Condado de Fairfax para obtener una lista de clínicas de vacunación infantil o vea otros recursos de vacunación. ¡Sea prudente y vacúnese!

🧲 Obtenga más información sobre las escuelas magnet de ciencia, tecnología y artes

Tres escuelas magnet de primaria de FCPS (Hunters Woods, Bailey’s Primary y Bailey’s Upper) ofrecen programas de aprendizaje mejorados en ciencias, tecnología y artes escénicas.

La inscripción para la lotería de escuelas magnet de primaria 2025-26 está abierta desde el martes 4 de marzo hasta el viernes 4 de abril. Obtenga más información sobre los programas en la página de escuelas magnet de primaria e información sobre la lotería de escuelas magnet en nuestra página de inscripción.

Celebración inaugural del Mes de la Historia Negra (Nota: cambio de fecha)

La Oficina de Equidad del Director de FCPS invita a la comunidad a una celebración inaugural del Mes de la Historia Negra el miércoles 19 de febrero, de 5:30 a 7:30 p. m., en la escuela secundaria Carter G. Woodson.

El evento comienza con una recepción ligera seguida de un programa formal, From the Threads of Our Past to the Fabric of Our Future. El programa honrará las contribuciones duraderas de la historia y la cultura negras al tiempo que imagina un futuro arraigado en la equidad y la excelencia. Incluirá actuaciones inspiradoras, historias personales, reflexiones y oportunidades para conectarse y celebrar. El evento está abierto a toda la comunidad.
Para obtener más información, comuníquese con Nina Thomas, gerente sénior de Aprendizaje profesional y capacidad de respuesta cultural.

Se invita a los estudiantes a compartir sus voces en la Cumbre familiar de 2025

La Cumbre familiar de FCPS de 2025 se llevará a cabo el sábado 15 de marzo en la escuela secundaria South Lakes. Visite la página web de la Cumbre familiar para obtener más información.

En el evento, se invita a los estudiantes de FCPS a mostrar proyectos y esfuerzos de defensa en torno a la inclusión en las escuelas. Esta es una gran oportunidad para mejorar el currículum y los estudiantes también pueden ganar horas de servicio. Los estudiantes pueden compartir su trabajo en un entorno de intercambio justo utilizando carteles, ensayos, videos, canciones o arte. Interactuarán con los asistentes a través de conversaciones sobre su trabajo, ideas y esfuerzos para fomentar la inclusión en las comunidades escolares.

Los estudiantes deben usar este formulario de Google para participar antes del lunes 17 de febrero. También se incluye una lista de posibles proyectos en el formulario. Se proporcionará más información después de recibir la presentación del estudiante. Comuníquese con Manuel Gómez Portillo si tiene alguna pregunta.

✨ Centrar la voz de los estudiantes es parte del Objetivo 2 del Plan Estratégico de FCPS: Seguros, apoyados, incluidos y empoderados.

📈 Resumen de la evaluación de los estudiantes de Virginia para las familias

Este mes, las familias de los estudiantes que tomaron alguna prueba de Estándares de aprendizaje (SOL) entre los años escolares 2015-16 y 2023-24 recibirán un Informe de resumen de la evaluación de los estudiantes. El informe muestra la clasificación percentil estatal de un estudiante para cada prueba. Esto permite a las familias ver cómo se clasificó su hijo en comparación con todos los estudiantes de Virginia que tomaron la misma prueba ese año.

Los informes ya están disponibles en los documentos ParentVUE de SIS. Las escuelas los distribuirán este mes a los estudiantes cuyas familias no tienen acceso a ParentVUE. Obtenga información sobre cómo acceder a ParentVUE.

El informe tiene como objetivo ayudar a las familias a reflexionar sobre el desempeño de su hijo en todas las materias evaluadas a lo largo de los años. Nuestras escuelas y nuestro personal están comprometidos a trabajar con las familias para apoyar a cada estudiante para que tenga éxito en su máximo potencial. Obtenga más información sobre las evaluaciones de los estudiantes en FCPS.

🧥 Mantenga a su hijo abrigado durante las actividades al aire libre

¡El clima invernal ya llegó! Como recordatorio, asegúrese de que su hijo esté vestido apropiadamente con un abrigo abrigado y otra ropa para clima frío, para que pueda disfrutar cómodamente del tiempo al aire libre. Las escuelas monitorean el clima para detectar bajas temperaturas, avisos y advertencias de sensación térmica y avisos meteorológicos que pueden impedir que los niños estén afuera para actividades como el recreo o la educación física.

Vea los consejos de seguridad para el clima invernal y el frío extremo del condado de Fairfax.

Si necesita ayuda para conseguir ropa para clima frío para su familia, comuníquese con nuestra enlace familiar, Ivanova Plazas, en [email protected]. También puede comunicarse con la Planificación de Servicios Coordinados (CSP) del condado de Fairfax al 703-222-0880. Su personal multilingüe puede ayudarlo con cualquier desafío que esté enfrentando, incluidos alimentos, refugio, empleo, asistencia financiera y atención médica.

❄️ Sea uno de los primeros en enterarse de los retrasos/cierres de escuelas

Mire este video para ver como FCPS toma decisiones sobre cierres por mal tiempo. 

El sitio web de FCPS es generalmente el primer lugar para enterarse de los cierres de emergencia por el clima. Otros canales de comunicación serán usados lo más pronto posible, incluyendo correo electrónico, texto, medios sociales, y estaciones de noticias. Aprenda más sobre cómo se comunican los cambios de horario.Sea uno de los primeros en enterarse de los retrasos y cierres por mal tiempo. Actualice su información de contacto en SIS ParentVUE. Los correos electrónicos y mensajes de texto se envían a los padres en función de las direcciones y números de teléfono móvil introducidos en esta plataforma.

🍲 Asistencia Alimentaria y Guía de Recursos

La inseguridad alimentaria impacta a más de 96,000 residentes del Condado de Fairfax. Hay muchos recursos disponibles para apoyar a aquellos que necesitan asistencia alimentaria. Aprenda cómo ayudar a estas familias y los muchos recursos disponibles para apoyar a aquellos que necesitan asistencia alimentaria en el sitio web del Condado de Fairfax, o consulte la Guía de Recursos de Servicios Humanos del condado.

Noticias de FCPS

En caso de que no lo hayas visto en FCPS This Week, la división escolar compartió actualizaciones sobre los siguientes temas y otros:

• Prevención de la gripe
• Los estudiantes transmiten alegría
• Invertir en nuestras aulas

Lee FCPS This Week para obtener más información sobre estos temas. Si aún no recibes este boletín semanal, regístrate hoy.

Comidas gratuitas o a precio reducido (FRM)

Obtenga más información sobre los criterios y el proceso para solicitar desayuno y almuerzo gratuitos o a precio reducido.

Si necesita ayuda con la solicitud de comidas gratuitas o a precio reducido, visite a la coordinadora familiar de Belvedere, la Sra. Plazas, en el Centro para padres o puede llamar a su oficina al (703) 916-6824.

Programa FCPS CARES

El Programa FCPS CARES permite a los padres, el personal y los miembros de la comunidad reconocer a los empleados de FCPS que hacen todo lo posible para ayudar a los demás y demostrar que se preocupan por sus estudiantes, colegas y la comunidad. Lo invitamos a enviar una historia a continuación para reconocer el gran trabajo de un empleado o grupo de empleados de FCPS que deberían recibir el reconocimiento FCPS CARES.

Tenga en cuenta lo siguiente antes de enviar un FCPS CARES:

• Se enviará un correo electrónico de notificación, con el texto del envío incluido, a los destinatarios y se copiará al supervisor del destinatario.
• Todos los envíos se publicarán en nuestra página web FCPS CARES y se compartirán a través de otros medios de comunicación de FCPS.
• Los envíos que contengan información personal o confidencial pueden editarse para proteger la privacidad de las personas.
• No dude en redactar su envío utilizando un editor de texto como Microsoft Word y luego péguelo en el cuadro de texto que se proporciona a continuación.

Si tiene preguntas, envíe un correo electrónico a [email protected].

¡Lea más y envíe un FCPS CARES hoy mismo!

Belvedere está en Instagram

¡Bienvenidos nuevamente, familias de Belvedere! 🎉 ¡Nuevo año escolar, nueva cuenta de Instagram! 📸 Estamos encantados de compartir todos los momentos increíbles que nos esperan. ¡Estén atentos y sígannos!

https://www.instagram.com/belvedereelem/

 

El Mes de la Historia Afroamericana

El Mes de la Historia Afroestadounidense es una celebración anual de los logros de los Afroestadounidenses y un tiempo para reconocer su papel central en la historia de los Estados Unidos.

Aprenda más sobre los meses de herencia, celebraciones, y tradiciones celebradas en FCPS.

Aprenda más sobre el mes de la Historia Afroestadounidense.

 

Febrero es el Mes de la Educación Profesional y Técnica

Al inscribirse en un curso o programa de Educación Profesional y Técnica “Career and Technical Education” (CTE), los estudiantes aprenden las aplicaciones técnicas de muchas ocupaciones mientras se preparan para la educación superior o para un empleo de nivel inicial. En todas las escuelas intermedias y secundarias se ofrece un programa básico de cursos de CTE que incluye Negocios y Tecnología de la Información, Familia y Ciencias del Consumidor, Salud y Ciencias Médicas, Comercialización, Tecnología y Educación en Ingeniería, Comercio y Educación Industrial. Siendo una asignatura optativa, la oferta de cursos puede variar según la escuela. Obtenga más información en el sitio web de CTE. 

CTE también ofrece programas de verano para que los estudiantes exploren sus programas. ¡Inscríbete ahora!

Próximas fechas

• Mes de Agradecimiento a la Junta Escolar de VSBA

• Gracias a la Junta Escolar del Condado de Fairfax por todo lo que hacen a lo largo del año. ¿Quiere contactar a sus representantes de la junta escolar para compartir su aprecio? Visite su sitio web para encontrar a su miembro de la junta escolar y ponerse en contacto con ellos.

• 15 de febrero: Día nacional de reconocimiento a los agentes de seguridad escolar

17 de febrero - Día de los Presidentes (Feriado)

Todas las escuelas y oficinas permanecerán cerradas el Lunes, 17 de Febrero por el feriado del Día de los Presidentes. Vea el calendario completo del año escolar.

Mantenerse en contacto

Visita el sitio web de Belvedere

Informar ausencias de estudiantes

Sitio web de FCPS Bus Delay

Sigue a Belvedere en Twitter

Cambia tus preferencias de correo electrónico

6540 Columbia Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041 | Office: 703-916-6800
Attendance: 703-916-6868 | Web | Twitter

From the School Administration

Dear Belvedere Families,

Happy Valentine’s Day! ❤️ We’d like to extend a big thank you to our wonderful PTA for providing coffee and doughnuts for our staff today—it was truly appreciated!

Although this was a short week with two early release days and a snow day, our time in school has been filled with learning. On Thursday, we celebrated the 100th day of school, which was an especially big event for our kindergarteners! Students engaged in hands-on activities, counting and problem-solving with a variety of sets of 100 different items.

Every minute in school counts, and we encourage students to attend as many days as possible to maximize learning. However, we understand that flu season is in full swing, and sometimes staying home is necessary. Please remember that students can return to school once they have been fever-free for 24 hours without medication. If you have any questions about when your child can return after being sick, don’t hesitate to call the school—we’re happy to work with you to support your child’s learning.

Thank you for your partnership, and we hope you have a wonderful Valentine’s Day!

Best,

Cecilia Vanderhye, Principal

Tara Boone, Assistant Principal

Kelly Cabezas, Assistant Principal

Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes, on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring, essay editing, and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

Message from Belvedere's Registrar

If you have a child who turns 5 years old by September 30, 2025, they will be eligible to attend Kindergarten for the 2025-26 school year. If you have any rising Kindergarten students, please be sure to complete the Survey of Pre School Children Form that is linked below and send in to the front office, attention of Mandy Belcher, School Registrar.

Survey of Preschool Children.pdf

[SPANISH] Survey of Preschool Children.pdf

Kindergarten Registration for the 2025-26 School Year is Now Open!

If you have a child who will be 5 years old by September 30, they are eligible to attend Kindergarten for the upcoming year. 

Registration paperwork can be downloaded at https://www.fcps.edu/sites/default/files/media/forms/Enroll_Pre-Kindergarten_Experience.pdf.  Once you have completed the paperwork and gathered the required documents, please come into the front office to meet with our registrar, Mrs. Mandy Belcher ([email protected]).

Alternatively, you can now choose to use our online registration tool https://www.fcps.edu/online-registration.  If you choose the online option, you will then have to come into the office with the child’s original birth certificate, your proof of residence (deed/lease) and your ID.

Please note the Commonwealth of VA medical form (showing immunizations and physical exam) can be submitted at a later date, as long as we have this by August 15, 2025 at the latest.

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to reach out to Mrs. Belcher.

Early registration is strongly encouraged.

  Help Needed for Family Movie Night + Other Upcoming Events

We need volunteers to help PTA leaders coordinate our next Belvedere Family Movie Night on Feb. 27. We will be showing the very popular Pixar movie Inside Out 2!  Could you help sell concessions or pop popcorn? Drop a note to Belvedere PTA at [email protected] if you can help make this event another special experience for our school community.  PTA funds make this event possible and we need volunteers to make it work.  Other upcoming events and needs:

• Feb. 19-March 10: Spirit Wear Sale (online)
• Feb. 27: Family Movie Night * Volunteers Needed
• March 6: March Community Meeting 
• March 12: Phone Readiness Event (Dinner and child care included) * Volunteers Needed
• March 20 - Belvedere Ballers (BES basketball event at Glasgow) * Volunteers NeededMarch TBD - Spring Auction * Volunteers Needed

Interested in helping with any of these upcoming events? Send a note to [email protected] or sign up via the link provided and we will put you in touch with the coordinator. We especially need help for the Spring Auction – our biggest fundraising event of the year. 

Join us for a Screen Readiness Workshop: March 12

Belvedere PTA is excited to offer families the PTA Connected: Ready, Tech, Go! workshop on Wednesday, March 12, from 5:45-7:30 p.m. in the Belvedere cafeteria and online.

There will be an in-person meal from 5:45-6:30 p.m. and the active workshop time will be from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Child care, door prizes and activities will be provided for the in-person portion of this event.

During this educational event, Belvedere parents and caregivers will:

• Reflect on various aspects of screen readiness.
• Become familiar with tools and resources that help families determine screen readiness and discuss digital life.
• Gain new ideas to promote a healthy digital home.

We need volunteers to help make our event a success. Volunteers are needed for:

• Event planning and logistics
• Coordinating dinner (all expenses covered)
• Check in + registration (day of only)
• Caregiver room support (day of only, we have a team of babysitters!)
• Day-of room set up and/or clean up

Please sign up by March 5 if you’re interested in volunteering.

Registration is required to attend the in-person portion of this event so we can be sure to secure the right amount of food, chairs and child care. If you have any questions, please send a note to [email protected]

 

Breaking Down the Budget: Investing in Our Classrooms

Did you know that more than 85% of FCPS’ budget stays in our classrooms? Currently, 92.5% of FCPS staff are school-based, more than neighboring school districts. We are in the middle of FCPS’ annual budget process, which includes opportunities for you to give feedback. Learn more about the proposed FCPS FY 2026 Proposed Budget and see the budget timeline.

🏗️ FCPS’ Construction Projects Offer Community-Wide Benefits

The Fairfax County School Board approved the annual update to FCPS’ FY 2026-30 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) at their regular board meeting last week. A CIP is a working budget document that shows the timing and costs of improvement to school buildings, such as renovations, additions, and new schools. Learn more about planned improvements. Fairfax County Public Schools’ updated plans for new school construction, capacity enhancements, and renovations are outlined in the CIP. Projects include constructing two new elementary schools; renovations at 18 elementary schools, two middle schools, and two high schools; and relocation of modular buildings.

🤧 Protect Yourself and Your Community From the Flu

Fairfax County is experiencing very high levels of influenza (flu) illness. The Fairfax County Health Department reports that visits to emergency departments and urgent care centers for flu-like illness have increased, especially among children, and multiple flu outbreaks have occurred in our community and school settings. Read a letter from the health department. 

The health department suggests taking the following steps to reduce the spread of flu and other germs:    

• Cover coughs and sneezes. If you must be around others while ill, wearing a mask can help reduce spread.
• Wash hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available (with supervision for younger children).
• Clean frequently touched surfaces.

According to the health department, to help prevent or reduce the spread of illness it is important for individuals who are sick to stay home and away from others until symptoms improve and until they have been free of fever for at least 24 hours. Visit this Attendance webpage for guidance on when your child should go to school.

🐻 It’s Kindergarten Registration Time!

Attending kindergarten provides children with an opportunity to learn and practice the essential social, emotional, problem-solving, and self-regulation skills they will use throughout their lives. Fairfax County public schools typically conduct kindergarten registration events, including orientation, between January and April. Eligible children can also be registered throughout the summer, but registering your child early helps us prepare and ensure we have the teachers and resources needed on the first day of school. 

Families should prepare for registration by gathering documents and completing forms on the FCPS kindergarten registration webpage. FCPS offers support and resources for all families to help with registration and the transition to kindergarten. For support in other languages, visit the kindergarten registration webpage.

✨ A strong start is Goal 1 of the 2023-30 Strategic Plan.

Learn More About How Your Child Feels at School

The Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener will be administered to students in grades 3-12 in March. Students use the SEL Screener twice a year to share their perspectives on how well their school and community help them develop the skills they need to succeed. The screener works by asking questions or presenting statements that students can think about and respond to. This gives students a way to share how well their school community makes them feel valued, included, and supported.

After each screening, results are available in the Documents tab of SIS ParentVUE and mailed to families who do not have a ParentVUE account. For more information, including SEL Screener questions and opt-out information, please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage.

Student Fasting Meal Kits for February 28 - March 28

Thanks to a new program from the Virginia Department of Education, students who are fasting during the school day between February 28 and March 28 can now take school meal kits home at the end of the day.Families will need to fill out a weekly Fasting Meals Request Form for their child or children to receive school meal kits. A separate form must be filled out for each week and each student.To receive meal kits for Friday, February 28, and the week of March 3, please submit the first request form by Monday, February 24. Visit the FNS webpage for more information, including weekly request forms and deadlines.

 

Make Sure Your Children Are Up-to-Date on Immunizations

Please make sure your child has all of their necessary immunizations. Remember, all students are required to be immunized against certain diseases to attend school in Virginia. This is an important part of keeping children healthy!

Starting Monday, May 19, students who have not provided proof of immunization may not be allowed to attend school. You can check your child’s immunization status and submit updated immunization information by accessing SIS ParentVUE. 

Please check with your healthcare provider to make sure your child is up to date on required immunizations for the 2024-25 school year. If your child needs an immunization, make an appointment with your healthcare provider, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or view other Immunization Resources. Be wise and immunize!

🧲 Learn About Science, Technology, and Arts Magnet Schools

Three FCPS elementary magnet schools — Hunters Woods, Bailey’s Primary, and Bailey’s Upper — provide enhanced learning programs in science, technology, and performing arts. 

Registration for the 2025-26 elementary magnet lottery is open Tuesday, March 4, through Friday, April 4. Learn more about the programs on the Elementary Magnet Schools page and information on the magnet lottery on our Registration page.

Black History Month Kick-Off Celebration (Note: Date Change)

FCPS’ Chief Equity Office invites the community to an Inaugural Black History Month Kickoff Celebration on Wednesday, February 19, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at Carter G. Woodson High School.   

The event begins with a light reception followed by a formal program, From the Threads of Our Past to the Fabric of Our Future. The program will honor the enduring contributions of Black history and culture while envisioning a future rooted in equity and excellence. It will include inspiring performances, personal stories, reflections, and opportunities to connect and celebrate. The event is open to the entire community. 

For more information, contact Nina Thomas, senior manager for Professional Learning and Cultural Responsiveness.

Students Invited to Share Their Voices at the 2025 Family Summit

The 2025 FCPS Family Summit will take place on Saturday, March 15, at South Lakes High School. Visit the Family Summit webpage for more information. 

At the event, FCPS students are invited to showcase projects and advocacy efforts around inclusivity in schools. This is a great resume-building opportunity, and students can earn service hours as well. Students may share their work in a share-fair environment using posters, essays, videos, songs, or art. They will interact with attendees through conversations about their work, ideas, and efforts to foster inclusivity in school communities. 

Students must use this Google Form to participate by Monday, February 17. A list of possible projects is also on the form. More information will be provided after the student’s submission is received. Please contact Manuel Gomez Portillo with any questions. 

✨ Centering student voice is part of FCPS’ Strategic Plan Goal 2: Safe, Supported, Included, and Empowered.

📈 Virginia’s Student Assessment Summary for Families

This month, families of students who took any Standards of Learning (SOL) test between school years 2015-16 and 2023-24 will receive a Student Assessment Summary Report. The report shows a student’s state percentile ranking for each test. This allows families to see how their child ranked compared to all Virginia students who took the same test that year. 

Reports are available now in SIS ParentVUE Documents. They will be distributed by schools this month to students whose families do not have ParentVUE access. Learn how to access ParentVUE. 

The report is intended to help families reflect on how their child performed across all tested subjects over the years. Our schools and staff are committed to working with families to support every student to succeed at their highest potential. Learn more about student assessments in FCPS.

🧥 Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

Winter weather is here! As a reminder, please make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy time outdoors. Schools monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories that may prevent children from being outside for activities like recess or physical education.

View Fairfax County’s Winter Weather/Extreme Cold safety tips. 

If you need assistance getting cold-weather clothing for your family, please contact our family liaison, Ivanova Plazas at [email protected]. You may also contact Fairfax County Coordinated Services Planning (CSP) at 703-222-0880. Their multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health care.

❄️ Be Among the First to Hear About School Delays/Closings

Watch this video to see how FCPS makes weather closing decisions. 

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 among the first to hear about weather delays and closings! Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE. Emails and text messages are sent to parents and caregivers based on the addresses and cell phone numbers entered on this platform.

🍲 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.

If you need further assistance please contact either Jeffrey Hewitt, Social Worker, or Belvedere's Family Liaison, Iva Plazas.

FCPS News

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

• Flu Prevention
• Students Spread Joy
• Investing in our Classrooms

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

Free and Reduced-Price Meals (FRM)

Learn more about the criteria and process to apply for free or reduced-price breakfast and lunch.

If you need assistance with the Free and Reduced-Meal application, please visit Belvedere's Family Liaison, Mrs. Plazas in the Parent Center or you may call her office at (703) 916-6824

FCPS CARES Program

The FCPS CARES Program allows parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees who go above and beyond to help others and show they care about their students, colleagues, and the community. We invite you to submit a story below to acknowledge the great work of an FCPS employee or group of employees who should receive FCPS CARES recognition. 

Please take note of the following before submitting an FCPS CARES:

• A notification email, with the submission text included, will be sent to the recipient(s) and copied to the recipient's supervisor(s). 
• All submissions will be posted to our FCPS CARES webpage and shared via other FCPS news outlets.
• Submissions containing personal or sensitive information may be edited to protect individuals' privacy.
• Feel free to compose your submission using a text editor such as Microsoft Word, and then paste it into the text box provided.

For questions, please email [email protected].

Read more and Submit an FCPS CARES today!

Belvedere is on Instagram

Welcome back, Belvedere families! 🎉 New school year, new Instagram account! 📸 We’re thrilled to share all the incredible moments ahead. Stay tuned and follow along!

https://www.instagram.com/belvedereelem/

 

Black History Month

Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing their central role in U.S. history.Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. Learn more about Black History month.

 

February Is Career and Technical Education Month

By enrolling in a Career and Technical Education (CTE) course or program, students learn the technical applications of many occupations while preparing for higher education or entry-level employment. A core program of CTE courses is offered in every middle and high school including Business and Information Technology, Family and Consumer Sciences, Health and Medical Sciences, Marketing, Technology and Engineering Education, and Trade and Industrial Education. Since this is an elective, course offerings may vary by school. Learn more on the FCPS CTE webpage. 

CTE also offers summer programs for students to explore their programs. Enroll now!

Upcoming Dates

• VSBA School Board Appreciation Month
  • Thank you to the Fairfax County School Board for all they do throughout the year. Want to contact your school board representatives to share your appreciation? Visit their website to find your school board member and contact them.
• February 15: National School Resource Officer Appreciation Day

February 17 - Presidents Day (Holiday)

All schools and offices will be closed on Monday, February 17, for the Presidents Day holiday. See the complete school year calendar.

Keep in Touch

Visit the Belvedere website

Report student absences

Bus Delay Website

Follow Belvedere on X

Change your email preferences

FCPS Calendar

6540 Columbia Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041 | Office: 703-916-6800
Attendance: 703-916-6868 | Web | Twitter

De la administración de la escuela

Estimadas familias de Belvedere:

Estamos profundamente agradecidos a todos los que nos acompañaron en la Noche de cultura familiar de ayer. Este maravilloso evento patrocinado por la PTA fue un rotundo éxito, destacando maravillosamente la rica diversidad de nuestra comunidad a través de una increíble variedad de comidas, tradiciones y presentaciones culturales.

Ser testigos de la unión de las muchas culturas dentro de nuestra comunidad nos llenó de orgullo y aprecio. Eventos como estos nos recuerdan cómo nuestra diversidad no solo enriquece nuestras experiencias, sino que también fortalece las conexiones que nos convierten en una familia escolar unida. Nos sentimos honrados de ser parte de una comunidad tan inclusiva y dinámica. Gracias por compartir sus tradiciones y ayudar a crear una noche llena de aprendizaje, conexión y celebración.

También extendemos nuestra gratitud a quienes asistieron a la reunión de la PTA del miércoles pasado. Las contribuciones de la PTA tienen un impacto significativo en Belvedere. ¿Sabía que los fondos de la PTA cubren el transporte para dos excursiones por nivel de grado? Recientemente, nuestros alumnos de tercer grado visitaron la Biblioteca Pública de Culmore, donde cada estudiante recibió una tarjeta de la biblioteca y sacó libros para llevar a casa, ¡un absoluto deleite! Nuestros alumnos de jardín de infantes también hicieron su segundo viaje a la Galería Nacional de Arte, donde descubrieron conceptos matemáticos incorporados en las obras de arte. Estos jóvenes estudiantes, aunque solo tienen cinco o seis años, se han convertido en observadores entusiastas y pensadores reflexivos.

Además, la PTA apoya el desarrollo profesional de nuestro personal. Al final de este año escolar, muchos educadores de Belvedere participarán en la capacitación del IB junto con el personal de la escuela primaria Dogwood. Esta capacitación mejorará su comprensión de los planes de estudio basados ​​en conceptos y la enseñanza y el aprendizaje basados ​​en la investigación. Nada de esto sería posible sin su apoyo continuo a través de la PTA. ¡Gracias!
Con gratitud,
Cecilia Vanderhye, directora
Tara Boone, subdirectora
Kelly Cabezas, subdirectora

Mensaje de la Registradora de Belvedere

Si tiene un niño que cumpla 5 años antes del 30 de septiembre de 2025, será elegible para asistir a Kindergarten durante el año escolar 2025-26. Si tiene algún estudiante que ingresará a Kindergarten, asegúrese de completar el Formulario de Encuesta de Niños en Edad Preescolar que se encuentra en el enlace a continuación y envíelo a la oficina principal, a la atención de Mandy Belcher, Registradora Escolar.

Survey of Preschool Children.pdf

[SPANISH] Survey of Preschool Children.pdf

¡La inscripción para Kindergarten del año escolar 2025-26 ya está abierta!

Si tiene un niño que cumplirá 5 años antes del 30 de septiembre, será elegible para asistir a Kindergarten el próximo año.

Los documentos de inscripción pueden descargarse en https://www.fcps.edu/sites/default/files/media/forms/Enroll_Pre-Kindergarten_Experience.pdf. Una vez que haya completado los formularios y reunido los documentos requeridos, visite la oficina principal para reunirse con nuestra registradora, la Sra. Mandy Belcher ([email protected]).

También puede optar por utilizar nuestra herramienta de inscripción en línea en https://www.fcps.edu/online-registration. Si elige la opción en línea, deberá acudir a la oficina con el certificado de nacimiento original del niño, su comprobante de residencia (escritura o contrato de arrendamiento) y su identificación.

Tenga en cuenta que el formulario médico del Commonwealth de Virginia (que muestra las vacunas y el examen físico) puede enviarse más tarde, siempre que lo entreguemos a más tardar el 15 de agosto de 2025.

Si tiene alguna pregunta, no dude en comunicarse con la Sra. Belcher.

Se recomienda encarecidamente realizar la inscripción anticipada.

 

Se necesita ayuda para la noche de cine familiar, 27 de febrero (¡Reserve la fecha!) 

Necesitamos 2 personas para coordinar con los líderes de la PTA para nuestra próxima Noche de Cine Familiar Belvedere el 27 de febrero. ¡Proyectaremos la muy popular película de Pixar Inside Out 2! El compromiso de tiempo para los clientes potenciales de la Noche de cine será de menos de 5 horas en total, incluidas aproximadamente 2,5 horas para las necesidades del día del evento. También necesitaremos de 2 a 3 personas para ayudar a preparar, vender concesiones y repartir palomitas de maíz el 27 de febrero. Envíe una nota a la PTA de Belvedere a [email protected]m si puede ayudar a que este evento sea otra experiencia especial para nuestra comunidad escolar.  Los fondos de la PTA hacen posible este evento, pero necesitamos voluntarios para que funcione.

 

Calendario de próximos eventos + oportunidades de voluntariado

• Del 19 de febrero al 10 de marzo: Venta de ropa espiritual (en línea)
• 27 de febrero: Noche de cine familiar * Se necesitan voluntarios
• 6 de marzo: Reunión comunitaria de marzo 
• 12 de marzo: Evento de preparación telefónica (cena y cuidado de niños incluidos) * Se necesitan voluntarios
• 20 de marzo: Belvedere Ballers (evento de baloncesto BES en Glasgow) * Se necesitan voluntarios
• Marzo por determinar - Subasta de primavera * Se necesitan voluntarios

¿Interesado en ayudar con alguno de estos próximos eventos? Envíe una nota a [email protected] o regístrese a través del enlace proporcionado y lo pondremos en contacto con el coordinador. Necesitamos ayuda especialmente para la Subasta de Primavera, nuestro mayor evento de recaudación de fondos del año.

 

Asegúrese de que sus hijos estén al día con las vacunas

Asegúrese de que su hijo tenga todas las vacunas necesarias. Recuerde que todos los estudiantes deben estar vacunados contra ciertas enfermedades para asistir a la escuela en Virginia. ¡Esto es una parte importante para mantener a los niños saludables!

A partir del lunes 19 de mayo, los estudiantes que no hayan presentado un comprobante de vacunación podrían no poder asistir a la escuela. Puede verificar el estado de vacunación de su hijo y enviar información actualizada sobre la vacunación accediendo a SIS ParentVUE.

Consulte con su proveedor de atención médica para asegurarse de que su hijo esté al día con las vacunas requeridas para el año escolar 2024-25. Si su hijo necesita una vacuna, programe una cita con su proveedor de atención médica, visite el sitio web del Departamento de Salud del Condado de Fairfax para obtener una lista de clínicas de vacunación infantil o vea otros recursos de vacunación. ¡Sea prudente y vacúnese!

 

Progreso del presupuesto propuesto de FCPS

La Junta Escolar del Condado de Fairfax analizó el presupuesto propuesto para el año fiscal (AF) 2026 en su sesión de trabajo del 4 de febrero. Analizaron detalles sobre la inscripción de estudiantes y las inversiones en estudiantes que requieren apoyo adicional, datos de comparación de mercado para las divisiones escolares circundantes y una actualización sobre el progreso hacia la obtención del premio Baldrige a la excelencia en el desempeño. Baldrige es un marco que se utiliza para evaluar y mejorar el desempeño organizacional en varios sectores, incluida la educación.

La Junta Escolar también llevó a cabo una audiencia pública sobre el presupuesto propuesto para el año fiscal 2026 el martes 4 de febrero, donde invitó a la comunidad a compartir sus comentarios sobre el presupuesto.

El martes 18 de febrero, el ejecutivo del Condado de Fairfax presentará el presupuesto anunciado del condado y la Junta Escolar del Condado de Fairfax llevará a cabo una sesión de trabajo sobre el presupuesto propuesto para el año fiscal 2026 de FCPS. Vea el calendario de desarrollo del presupuesto de FCPS.

Desglose del presupuesto

Más del 85% del presupuesto está dedicado a la instrucción y refleja las necesidades de los jóvenes de nuestra comunidad en respuesta al mundo cambiante que nos rodea. Las prioridades del presupuesto incluyen proporcionar una compensación competitiva para todos los empleados, incluido un aumento salarial del 7% para todo el personal. La mayor parte del aumento presupuestario está dedicado a ese aumento salarial propuesto del 7%.

Nuestras familias quieren que sus hijos estén en escuelas de alta calidad con los mejores maestros que brinden experiencias académicas rigurosas. Debemos proporcionar una compensación competitiva para atraer y retener a nuestros excelentes educadores, administradores y otro personal operativo y basado en la escuela dedicado al éxito de nuestros estudiantes.

El aumento salarial propuesto del 7% probablemente llevaría a FCPS al salario inicial más alto para maestros con un título de maestría entre nuestros condados vecinos y mejoraría en gran medida nuestros esfuerzos de reclutamiento en medio de una escasez continua de maestros. Visite la página web del Presupuesto para obtener más información.

🗺️ Inscripción para la lotería de inmersión en dos idiomas

La inscripción para la lotería en todo el condado para el programa de inmersión en dos idiomas (DLI) para alumnos de primer grado en el año escolar 2025-26 está abierta hasta el jueves 13 de febrero a las 4 p. m. Los alumnos actuales de prejardín de infantes pueden solicitar el programa de inmersión en jardín de infantes hasta el jueves 6 de marzo a las 4 p. m.

La inmersión en dos idiomas está disponible en francés, alemán, japonés, coreano y español.

Los padres o tutores interesados ​​pueden asistir a una reunión informativa en el sitio de la escuela. Visite la página de inscripción al programa de inmersión en dos idiomas para obtener una lista de las reuniones por idioma ofrecido.

Obtenga más detalles en la página web del programa DLI.

🧲 Obtenga más información sobre las escuelas magnet de ciencia, tecnología y artes

Tres escuelas magnet de primaria de FCPS (Hunters Woods, Bailey’s Primary y Bailey’s Upper) ofrecen programas de aprendizaje mejorados en ciencias, tecnología y artes escénicas.

La inscripción para la lotería de escuelas magnet de primaria 2025-26 está abierta desde el martes 4 de marzo hasta el viernes 4 de abril. Obtenga más información sobre los programas en la página de escuelas magnet de primaria e información sobre la lotería de escuelas magnet en nuestra página de inscripción.

Celebración inaugural del Mes de la Historia Negra (Nota: cambio de fecha)

La Oficina de Equidad del Director de FCPS invita a la comunidad a una celebración inaugural del Mes de la Historia Negra el miércoles 19 de febrero, de 5:30 a 7:30 p. m., en la escuela secundaria Carter G. Woodson.

El evento comienza con una recepción ligera seguida de un programa formal, From the Threads of Our Past to the Fabric of Our Future. El programa honrará las contribuciones duraderas de la historia y la cultura negras al tiempo que imagina un futuro arraigado en la equidad y la excelencia. Incluirá actuaciones inspiradoras, historias personales, reflexiones y oportunidades para conectarse y celebrar. El evento está abierto a toda la comunidad.
Para obtener más información, comuníquese con Nina Thomas, gerente sénior de Aprendizaje profesional y capacidad de respuesta cultural.

Se invita a los estudiantes a compartir sus voces en la Cumbre familiar de 2025

La Cumbre familiar de FCPS de 2025 se llevará a cabo el sábado 15 de marzo en la escuela secundaria South Lakes. Visite la página web de la Cumbre familiar para obtener más información.

En el evento, se invita a los estudiantes de FCPS a mostrar proyectos y esfuerzos de defensa en torno a la inclusión en las escuelas. Esta es una gran oportunidad para mejorar el currículum y los estudiantes también pueden ganar horas de servicio. Los estudiantes pueden compartir su trabajo en un entorno de intercambio justo utilizando carteles, ensayos, videos, canciones o arte. Interactuarán con los asistentes a través de conversaciones sobre su trabajo, ideas y esfuerzos para fomentar la inclusión en las comunidades escolares.

Los estudiantes deben usar este formulario de Google para participar antes del lunes 17 de febrero. También se incluye una lista de posibles proyectos en el formulario. Se proporcionará más información después de recibir la presentación del estudiante. Comuníquese con Manuel Gómez Portillo si tiene alguna pregunta.

✨ Centrar la voz de los estudiantes es parte del Objetivo 2 del Plan Estratégico de FCPS: Seguros, apoyados, incluidos y empoderados.

📍 Actualizaciones de la Revisión Integral de Límites

Reuniones virtuales de la Comunidad para la Revisión Integral de Límites se llevarán a cabo:

• lunes, 10 de febrero de 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

La inscripción estará disponible próximamente en la página web de Revisión Integral de Límites, donde también podrá informarse sobre el proceso de revisión de límites. Inscríbase también en nuestro boletín de Revisión de Límites Escolares.

📈 Resumen de la evaluación de los estudiantes de Virginia para las familias

Este mes, las familias de los estudiantes que tomaron alguna prueba de Estándares de aprendizaje (SOL) entre los años escolares 2015-16 y 2023-24 recibirán un Informe de resumen de la evaluación de los estudiantes. El informe muestra la clasificación percentil estatal de un estudiante para cada prueba. Esto permite a las familias ver cómo se clasificó su hijo en comparación con todos los estudiantes de Virginia que tomaron la misma prueba ese año.

Los informes ya están disponibles en los documentos ParentVUE de SIS. Las escuelas los distribuirán este mes a los estudiantes cuyas familias no tienen acceso a ParentVUE. Obtenga información sobre cómo acceder a ParentVUE.

El informe tiene como objetivo ayudar a las familias a reflexionar sobre el desempeño de su hijo en todas las materias evaluadas a lo largo de los años. Nuestras escuelas y nuestro personal están comprometidos a trabajar con las familias para apoyar a cada estudiante para que tenga éxito en su máximo potencial. Obtenga más información sobre las evaluaciones de los estudiantes en FCPS.

Se Viene Pronto la Encuesta de SR&R y Política de Celulares

Todas las familias de FCPS y estudiantes de escuelas intermedias y secundarias recibirán una invitación por correo electrónico el martes, 21 de enero, para participar en una encuesta acerca de los Derechos y Responsabilidades del Estudiante (SR&R) de FCPS, Política de Teléfonos Celulares, y opciones de almacenamiento de teléfonos celulares. La encuesta estará disponible del 21 de enero al 3 de febrero. Por favor tómese unos minutos para compartir su opinión y ayudar a FCPS a tomar decisiones informadas e inclusivas para todas nuestras escuelas.

🧥 Mantenga a su hijo abrigado durante las actividades al aire libre

¡El clima invernal ya llegó! Como recordatorio, asegúrese de que su hijo esté vestido apropiadamente con un abrigo abrigado y otra ropa para clima frío, para que pueda disfrutar cómodamente del tiempo al aire libre. Las escuelas monitorean el clima para detectar bajas temperaturas, avisos y advertencias de sensación térmica y avisos meteorológicos que pueden impedir que los niños estén afuera para actividades como el recreo o la educación física.

Vea los consejos de seguridad para el clima invernal y el frío extremo del condado de Fairfax.

Si necesita ayuda para conseguir ropa para clima frío para su familia, comuníquese con nuestra enlace familiar, Ivanova Plazas, en [email protected]. También puede comunicarse con la Planificación de Servicios Coordinados (CSP) del condado de Fairfax al 703-222-0880. Su personal multilingüe puede ayudarlo con cualquier desafío que esté enfrentando, incluidos alimentos, refugio, empleo, asistencia financiera y atención médica.

📑 Varsity Tutors ofrece asistencia a pedido sin costo

FCPS se ha asociado con Varsity Tutors para brindarles a los estudiantes y a las familias recursos adicionales para el aprendizaje. Todos los estudiantes pueden aprovechar los servicios de Varsity Tutors sin costo, incluidas clases semanales en línea en vivo; tutoría por chat las 24 horas del día, los 7 días de la semana; edición de ensayos; y recursos de estudio como contenido grabado, problemas de práctica y pruebas de diagnóstico. Obtenga más información sobre la tutoría en línea con Varsity Tutors.

❄️ Sea uno de los primeros en enterarse de los retrasos/cierres de escuelas

Mire este video para ver como FCPS toma decisiones sobre cierres por mal tiempo. 

El sitio web de FCPS es generalmente el primer lugar para enterarse de los cierres de emergencia por el clima. Otros canales de comunicación serán usados lo más pronto posible, incluyendo correo electrónico, texto, medios sociales, y estaciones de noticias. Aprenda más sobre cómo se comunican los cambios de horario.Sea uno de los primeros en enterarse de los retrasos y cierres por mal tiempo. Actualice su información de contacto en SIS ParentVUE. Los correos electrónicos y mensajes de texto se envían a los padres en función de las direcciones y números de teléfono móvil introducidos en esta plataforma.

🍲 Asistencia Alimentaria y Guía de Recursos

La inseguridad alimentaria impacta a más de 96,000 residentes del Condado de Fairfax. Hay muchos recursos disponibles para apoyar a aquellos que necesitan asistencia alimentaria. Aprenda cómo ayudar a estas familias y los muchos recursos disponibles para apoyar a aquellos que necesitan asistencia alimentaria en el sitio web del Condado de Fairfax, o consulte la Guía de Recursos de Servicios Humanos del condado.

Noticias de FCPS

En caso de que te lo hayas perdido en FCPS This Week, la división escolar compartió actualizaciones sobre los siguientes temas y otros:

• Progreso del presupuesto propuesto
• Solicitud de loterías de inmersión dual y de escuelas magnet
• Evento del Mes de la Historia Afroamericana

Lee FCPS This Week para obtener más información sobre estos temas. Si aún no recibes este boletín semanal, regístrate hoy.

Comidas gratuitas o a precio reducido (FRM)

Obtenga más información sobre los criterios y el proceso para solicitar desayuno y almuerzo gratuitos o a precio reducido.

Si necesita ayuda con la solicitud de comidas gratuitas o a precio reducido, visite a la coordinadora familiar de Belvedere, la Sra. Plazas, en el Centro para padres o puede llamar a su oficina al (703) 916-6824.

Programa FCPS CARES

El Programa FCPS CARES permite a los padres, el personal y los miembros de la comunidad reconocer a los empleados de FCPS que hacen todo lo posible para ayudar a los demás y demostrar que se preocupan por sus estudiantes, colegas y la comunidad. Lo invitamos a enviar una historia a continuación para reconocer el gran trabajo de un empleado o grupo de empleados de FCPS que deberían recibir el reconocimiento FCPS CARES.

Tenga en cuenta lo siguiente antes de enviar un FCPS CARES:

• Se enviará un correo electrónico de notificación, con el texto del envío incluido, a los destinatarios y se copiará al supervisor del destinatario.
• Todos los envíos se publicarán en nuestra página web FCPS CARES y se compartirán a través de otros medios de comunicación de FCPS.
• Los envíos que contengan información personal o confidencial pueden editarse para proteger la privacidad de las personas.
• No dude en redactar su envío utilizando un editor de texto como Microsoft Word y luego péguelo en el cuadro de texto que se proporciona a continuación.

Si tiene preguntas, envíe un correo electrónico a [email protected].

¡Lea más y envíe un FCPS CARES hoy mismo!

Belvedere está en Instagram

¡Bienvenidos nuevamente, familias de Belvedere! 🎉 ¡Nuevo año escolar, nueva cuenta de Instagram! 📸 Estamos encantados de compartir todos los momentos increíbles que nos esperan. ¡Estén atentos y sígannos!

https://www.instagram.com/belvedereelem/

 

El Mes de la Historia Afroamericana

El Mes de la Historia Afroestadounidense es una celebración anual de los logros de los Afroestadounidenses y un tiempo para reconocer su papel central en la historia de los Estados Unidos.

Aprenda más sobre los meses de herencia, celebraciones, y tradiciones celebradas en FCPS.

Aprenda más sobre el mes de la Historia Afroestadounidense.

 

Febrero es el Mes de la Educación Profesional y Técnica

Al inscribirse en un curso o programa de Educación Profesional y Técnica “Career and Technical Education” (CTE), los estudiantes aprenden las aplicaciones técnicas de muchas ocupaciones mientras se preparan para la educación superior o para un empleo de nivel inicial. En todas las escuelas intermedias y secundarias se ofrece un programa básico de cursos de CTE que incluye Negocios y Tecnología de la Información, Familia y Ciencias del Consumidor, Salud y Ciencias Médicas, Comercialización, Tecnología y Educación en Ingeniería, Comercio y Educación Industrial. Siendo una asignatura optativa, la oferta de cursos puede variar según la escuela. Obtenga más información en el sitio web de CTE. 

CTE también ofrece programas de verano para que los estudiantes exploren sus programas. ¡Inscríbete ahora!

Próximas fechas

Mes de Agradecimiento a la Junta Escolar de VSBA

Gracias a la Junta Escolar del Condado de Fairfax por todo lo que hacen a lo largo del año. ¿Quiere contactar a sus representantes de la junta escolar para compartir su aprecio? Visite su sitio web para encontrar a su miembro de la junta escolar y ponerse en contacto con ellos.

• 12 de febrero: Día del 100 día de clases y Día de reconocimiento a los guardias de cruce
• 15 de febrero: Día nacional de reconocimiento a los agentes de seguridad escolar

17 de febrero - Día de los Presidentes (Feriado)

Todas las escuelas y oficinas permanecerán cerradas el Lunes, 17 de Febrero por el feriado del Día de los Presidentes. Vea el calendario completo del año escolar.

Mantenerse en contacto

Visita el sitio web de Belvedere

Informar ausencias de estudiantes

Sitio web de FCPS Bus Delay

Sigue a Belvedere en Twitter

Cambia tus preferencias de correo electrónico

6540 Columbia Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041 | Office: 703-916-6800
Attendance: 703-916-6868 | Web | Twitter

From the School Administration

Dear Belvedere Families,

We are deeply grateful to everyone who joined us for yesterday's Family Culture Night. This wonderful PTA-sponsored event was a resounding success, beautifully highlighting the rich diversity of our community through an amazing variety of foods, traditions, and cultural presentations.

Witnessing the many cultures within our community come together filled us with pride and appreciation. Events like these remind us how our diversity not only enriches our experiences but also strengthens the connections that make us a united school family. We are honored to be part of such an inclusive and dynamic community. Thank you for sharing your traditions and helping create an evening filled with learning, connection, and celebration.

We also extend our gratitude to those who attended last Wednesday's PTA meeting. The contributions of the PTA have a significant impact at Belvedere. Did you know PTA funds cover transportation for two field trips per grade level? Recently, our third graders visited the Culmore Public Library, where each student received a library card and checked out books to bring home—an absolute delight! Our kindergarteners also made their second trip to the National Gallery of Art, discovering mathematical concepts embedded in the artwork. These young learners, though only five or six years old, have become keen observers and thoughtful thinkers!

In addition, the PTA supports professional development for our staff. At the end of this school year, many Belvedere educators will participate in IB training alongside staff from Dogwood Elementary School. This training will enhance their understanding of concept-based curricula and inquiry-driven teaching and learning. None of this would be possible without your ongoing support through the PTA. Thank you!

With gratitude,

Cecilia Vanderhye, Principal

Tara Boone, Assistant Principal

Kelly Cabezas, Assistant Principal

Message from Belvedere's Registrar

If you have a child who turns 5 years old by September 30, 2025, they will be eligible to attend Kindergarten for the 2025-26 school year. If you have any rising Kindergarten students, please be sure to complete the Survey of Pre School Children Form that is linked below and send in to the front office, attention of Mandy Belcher, School Registrar.

Survey of Preschool Children.pdf

[SPANISH] Survey of Preschool Children.pdf

Kindergarten Registration for the 2025-26 School Year is Now Open!

If you have a child who will be 5 years old by September 30, they are eligible to attend Kindergarten for the upcoming year. 

Registration paperwork can be downloaded at https://www.fcps.edu/sites/default/files/media/forms/Enroll_Pre-Kindergarten_Experience.pdf.  Once you have completed the paperwork and gathered the required documents, please come into the front office to meet with our registrar, Mrs. Mandy Belcher ([email protected]).

Alternatively, you can now choose to use our online registration tool https://www.fcps.edu/online-registration.  If you choose the online option, you will then have to come into the office with the child’s original birth certificate, your proof of residence (deed/lease) and your ID.

Please note the Commonwealth of VA medical form (showing immunizations and physical exam) can be submitted at a later date, as long as we have this by August 15, 2025 at the latest.

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to reach out to Mrs. Belcher.

Early registration is strongly encouraged.

  Help Needed for Family Movie Night, Feb. 27 (Save the Date!) 

We need volunteers to help PTA leaders coordinate our next Belvedere Family Movie Night on Feb. 27. We will be showing the very popular Pixar movie Inside Out 2!  Could you help sell concessions or pop popcorn? Drop a note to Belvedere PTA at [email protected] if you can help make this event another special experience for our school community.  PTA funds make this event possible and we need volunteers to make it work. 

Upcoming Events Schedule + Volunteer Opportunities 

• Feb. 19-March 10: Spirit Wear Sale (online)
• Feb. 27: Family Movie Night * Volunteers Needed
• March 6: March Community Meeting 
• March 12: Phone Readiness Event (Dinner and child care included) * Volunteers Needed
• March 20 - Belvedere Ballers (BES basketball event at Glasgow) * Volunteers Needed
• March TBD - Spring Auction * Volunteers Needed

Interested in helping with any of these upcoming events? Send a note to [email protected] or sign up via the link provided and we will put you in touch with the coordinator. We especially need help for the Spring Auction – our biggest fundraising event of the year.

 

Make Sure Your Children Are Up-to-Date on Immunizations

Please make sure your child has all of their necessary immunizations. Remember, all students are required to be immunized against certain diseases to attend school in Virginia. This is an important part of keeping children healthy!

Starting Monday, May 19, students who have not provided proof of immunization may not be allowed to attend school. You can check your child’s immunization status and submit updated immunization information by accessing SIS ParentVUE. 

Please check with your healthcare provider to make sure your child is up to date on required immunizations for the 2024-25 school year. If your child needs an immunization, make an appointment with your healthcare provider, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or view other Immunization Resources. Be wise and immunize!

 

FCPS Proposed Budget Progress

The Fairfax County School Board discussed the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Proposed Budget at their work session on February 4. They discussed details regarding student enrollment and investments in students requiring additional support, market comparison data for surrounding school divisions, and an update on progress toward achieving the Baldrige Award for Performance Excellence. Baldrige is a framework used to assess and improve organizational performance across various sectors, including education. 

The School Board also held a public hearing on the FY 2026 Proposed Budget on Tuesday, February 4, where they invited the community to share their feedback on the budget.

On Tuesday, February 18, the Fairfax County executive will present the county’s Advertised Budget, and the Fairfax County School Board will hold a work session on the FCPS FY 2026 Proposed Budget. View FCPS’ Budget Development Calendar.

Breaking Down the Budget

More than 85% of the budget is dedicated to instruction and reflects the needs of our community’s young people in response to the changing world around us. Budget priorities include providing competitive compensation for all employees, including a 7% salary increase for all staff. The majority of the budget increase is dedicated to that proposed 7% pay increase.  

Our families want their children in high-quality schools with the best teachers who provide rigorous academic experiences. We must provide competitive compensation to attract and retain our outstanding educators, administrators, and other school-based and operational staff dedicated to the success of our students. 

The proposed 7% salary increase would likely move FCPS to the highest starting salary for teachers with a master's degree among our neighboring counties and greatly improve our recruitment efforts amidst an ongoing teacher shortage. Visit the Budget webpage for more information.

🗺️ Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration

Countywide lottery registration for the Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program for first graders in the 2025-26 school year is open through Thursday, February 13, at 4 p.m. Current pre-K students may apply for the kindergarten immersion program through Thursday, March 6, at 4 p.m.  

Dual Language Immersion is available in French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. 

Interested parents/caregivers may attend an informational meeting at the school site. Visit the Dual Language Immersion Program registration page for a list of meetings by language offered. 

Get more details on the DLI Program webpage.

🧲 Learn About Science, Technology, and Arts Magnet Schools

Three FCPS elementary magnet schools — Hunters Woods, Bailey’s Primary, and Bailey’s Upper — provide enhanced learning programs in science, technology, and performing arts. 

Registration for the 2025-26 elementary magnet lottery is open Tuesday, March 4, through Friday, April 4. Learn more about the programs on the Elementary Magnet Schools page and information on the magnet lottery on our Registration page.

Black History Month Kick-Off Celebration (Note: Date Change)

FCPS’ Chief Equity Office invites the community to an Inaugural Black History Month Kickoff Celebration on Wednesday, February 19, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at Carter G. Woodson High School.   

The event begins with a light reception followed by a formal program, From the Threads of Our Past to the Fabric of Our Future. The program will honor the enduring contributions of Black history and culture while envisioning a future rooted in equity and excellence. It will include inspiring performances, personal stories, reflections, and opportunities to connect and celebrate. The event is open to the entire community. 

For more information, contact Nina Thomas, senior manager for Professional Learning and Cultural Responsiveness.

Students Invited to Share Their Voices at the 2025 Family Summit

The 2025 FCPS Family Summit will take place on Saturday, March 15, at South Lakes High School. Visit the Family Summit webpage for more information. 

At the event, FCPS students are invited to showcase projects and advocacy efforts around inclusivity in schools. This is a great resume-building opportunity, and students can earn service hours as well. Students may share their work in a share-fair environment using posters, essays, videos, songs, or art. They will interact with attendees through conversations about their work, ideas, and efforts to foster inclusivity in school communities. 

Students must use this Google Form to participate by Monday, February 17. A list of possible projects is also on the form. More information will be provided after the student’s submission is received. Please contact Manuel Gomez Portillo with any questions. 

✨ Centering student voice is part of FCPS’ Strategic Plan Goal 2: Safe, Supported, Included, and Empowered.

📍 Virtual Community Boundary Review Meetings

If you have not been able to attend a Community Boundary Review meeting yet, it’s not too late! The following virtual meetings will have the same format and information available as the previous in-person meetings:

• Monday, February 10, 6:30-8 p.m. 

Click one of the dates above to register and receive your unique Zoom link. Please note that each virtual meeting will be capped at 400 participants to help provide a meaningful experience for all. Language interpretation will be available. Learn about FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review. Sign up for the School Boundary Review newsletter for updates.

📈 Virginia’s Student Assessment Summary for Families

This month, families of students who took any Standards of Learning (SOL) test between school years 2015-16 and 2023-24 will receive a Student Assessment Summary Report. The report shows a student’s state percentile ranking for each test. This allows families to see how their child ranked compared to all Virginia students who took the same test that year. 

Reports are available now in SIS ParentVUE Documents. They will be distributed by schools this month to students whose families do not have ParentVUE access. Learn how to access ParentVUE. 

The report is intended to help families reflect on how their child performed across all tested subjects over the years. Our schools and staff are committed to working with families to support every student to succeed at their highest potential. Learn more about student assessments in FCPS.

SR&R and Cell Phone Policy Survey

All FCPS families and middle and high school students have received an invitation to participate in a survey about FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R), cell phone policy, and cell phone storage options. The survey will be available through Monday, February 3. Please take a few moments to share your feedback and help FCPS make informed, inclusive decisions for all of our schools!

🧥 Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

Winter weather is here! As a reminder, please make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy time outdoors. Schools monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories that may prevent children from being outside for activities like recess or physical education.

View Fairfax County’s Winter Weather/Extreme Cold safety tips. 

If you need assistance getting cold-weather clothing for your family, please contact our family liaison, Ivanova Plazas at [email protected]. You may also contact Fairfax County Coordinated Services Planning (CSP) at 703-222-0880. Their multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health care.

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes; on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring; essay editing; and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

❄️ Be Among the First to Hear About School Delays/Closings

Watch this video to see how FCPS makes weather closing decisions. 

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 among the first to hear about weather delays and closings! Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE. Emails and text messages are sent to parents and caregivers based on the addresses and cell phone numbers entered on this platform.

🍲 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.

If you need further assistance please contact either Jeffrey Hewitt, Social Worker, or Belvedere's Family Liaison, Iva Plazas.

FCPS News

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

• Proposed Budget Progress
• Apply for Dual Immersion and Magnet Lotteries
• Black History Month Event

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

Free and Reduced-Price Meals (FRM)

Learn more about the criteria and process to apply for free or reduced-price breakfast and lunch.

If you need assistance with the Free and Reduced-Meal application, please visit Belvedere's Family Liaison, Mrs. Plazas in the Parent Center or you may call her office at (703) 916-6824

FCPS CARES Program

The FCPS CARES Program allows parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees who go above and beyond to help others and show they care about their students, colleagues, and the community. We invite you to submit a story below to acknowledge the great work of an FCPS employee or group of employees who should receive FCPS CARES recognition. 

Please take note of the following before submitting an FCPS CARES:

• A notification email, with the submission text included, will be sent to the recipient(s) and copied to the recipient's supervisor(s). 
• All submissions will be posted to our FCPS CARES webpage and shared via other FCPS news outlets.
• Submissions containing personal or sensitive information may be edited to protect individuals' privacy.
• Feel free to compose your submission using a text editor such as Microsoft Word, and then paste it into the text box provided.

For questions, please email [email protected].

Read more and Submit an FCPS CARES today!

Belvedere is on Instagram

Welcome back, Belvedere families! 🎉 New school year, new Instagram account! 📸 We’re thrilled to share all the incredible moments ahead. Stay tuned and follow along!

https://www.instagram.com/belvedereelem/

 

Black History Month

Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing their central role in U.S. history.Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. Learn more about Black History month.

 

February Is Career and Technical Education Month

By enrolling in a Career and Technical Education (CTE) course or program, students learn the technical applications of many occupations while preparing for higher education or entry-level employment. A core program of CTE courses is offered in every middle and high school including Business and Information Technology, Family and Consumer Sciences, Health and Medical Sciences, Marketing, Technology and Engineering Education, and Trade and Industrial Education. Since this is an elective, course offerings may vary by school. Learn more on the FCPS CTE webpage. 

CTE also offers summer programs for students to explore their programs. Enroll now!

Upcoming Dates

• VSBA School Board Appreciation MonthThank you to the Fairfax County School Board for all they do throughout the year. Want to contact your school board representatives to share your appreciation? Visit their website to find your school board member and contact them.
• February 12: 100th Day of School & Crossing Guard Appreciation Day
• February 15: National School Resource Officer Appreciation Day

February 17 - Presidents Day (Holiday)

All schools and offices will be closed on Monday, February 17, for the Presidents Day holiday. See the complete school year calendar.

Keep in Touch

Visit the Belvedere website

Report student absences

Bus Delay Website

Follow Belvedere on X

Change your email preferences

FCPS Calendar

6540 Columbia Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041 | Office: 703-916-6800
Attendance: 703-916-6868 | Web | Twitter

February PTA Meeting Tonight Online and at BES 

The February community meeting is tonight, Feb. 5, starting at 6:30 pm. Meetings last about an hour and are offered in a hybrid format – both online and in person in the Belvedere cafeteria. Spanish translation is available as part of the virtual format, so please join us via Zoom if you require Spanish support.

Topic: Belvedere PTA Community Meeting Time: Feb 5, 2025 06:20 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81520787662?pwd=FxCGSmsYxN6hYHtmaaKWbKQ8j4Aulk.1

Meeting ID: 815 2078 7662

Passcode: 892501

One tap mobile

+13092053325,,81520787662#,,,,*892501# US 

Dial by your location • +1 309 205 3325 US

Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kil8toueX

You can also follow the live stream at https://www.facebook.com/belvedere.pta Children are welcome to join in person at Belvedere, and there will be space for them in the cafeteria to snack, play games, use electronics, read and/or color.

All staff and BES families are welcome to join these meetings and we provide time to discuss your questions and ideas. You must be a PTA member to vote on any financial decisions made during meetings.

6540 Columbia Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041 | Office: 703-916-6800
Attendance: 703-916-6868 | Web | Twitter

February PTA Meeting Tonight Online and at BES 

The February community meeting is tonight, Feb. 5, starting at 6:30 pm. Meetings last about an hour and are offered in a hybrid format – both online and in person in the Belvedere cafeteria. Spanish translation is available as part of the virtual format, so please join us via Zoom if you require Spanish support.

Topic: Belvedere PTA Community Meeting Time: Feb 5, 2025 06:20 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81520787662?pwd=FxCGSmsYxN6hYHtmaaKWbKQ8j4Aulk.1

Meeting ID: 815 2078 7662

Passcode: 892501

One tap mobile

+13092053325,,81520787662#,,,,*892501# US 

Dial by your location • +1 309 205 3325 US

Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kil8toueX

You can also follow the live stream at https://www.facebook.com/belvedere.pta Children are welcome to join in person at Belvedere, and there will be space for them in the cafeteria to snack, play games, use electronics, read and/or color.

All staff and BES families are welcome to join these meetings and we provide time to discuss your questions and ideas. You must be a PTA member to vote on any financial decisions made during meetings.

6540 Columbia Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041 | Office: 703-916-6800
Attendance: 703-916-6868 | Web | Twitter

De la Administración Escolar

Queridas familias de Belvedere,

Esta semana, los directores del Justice Pyramid nos reunimos para nuestra reunión mensual. Somos nueve escuelas unidas por nuestra visión compartida de crear entornos centrados en Altas Expectativas, Pertenencia, Alegría y Éxito.

Nos guiamos por los siguientes principios:

Altas Expectativas:

• Fomentar que todos los estudiantes se esfuercen por alcanzar la excelencia académica y personal.
• Promover el desarrollo profesional entre los educadores para mantener los más altos estándares de enseñanza.
• Establecer un marco claro para lograr resultados equitativos, asegurando que cada estudiante tenga acceso a experiencias de aprendizaje desafiantes y enriquecedoras.

Pertenencia:

• Construir culturas escolares inclusivas donde los estudiantes se sientan valorados y apoyados.
• Fortalecer las conexiones entre familias, personal y comunidades, fomentando asociaciones que mejoren el rendimiento estudiantil.
• Enfatizar el aprendizaje socioemocional y las prácticas que refuercen la empatía, el respeto y la comprensión entre compañeros y personal.

Alegría:

• Priorizar una experiencia educativa vibrante y enriquecedora que despierte un amor por el aprendizaje de por vida.
• Fomentar proyectos, celebraciones y actividades impulsadas por los estudiantes que resalten logros individuales y grupales.
• Adoptar una visión holística de la educación, cultivando la creatividad, la curiosidad y el sentido de asombro tanto en los estudiantes como en el personal.

Éxito:

• Reconocer que el éxito es multidimensional y va más allá de lo académico, incluyendo el desarrollo del carácter y la contribución a la comunidad.
• Utilizar estrategias basadas en datos e intervenciones fundamentadas en evidencia para apoyar el aprendizaje personalizado y el dominio de habilidades.
• Celebrar hitos y logros para motivar e inspirar a estudiantes, personal y familias a seguir creciendo continuamente.

El compromiso compartido de las escuelas del Justice Pyramid con estos valores fortalece los lazos entre nuestras comunidades y garantiza un enfoque educativo unificado y centrado en el estudiante. Juntos, trabajamos para crear caminos que permitan a cada estudiante prosperar académicamente, socialmente y emocionalmente.

Gracias por su colaboración en la educación.

Atentamente,
Cecilia Vanderhye, Directora

Mensaje de la Registradora de Belvedere

Si tiene un niño que cumpla 5 años antes del 30 de septiembre de 2025, será elegible para asistir a Kindergarten durante el año escolar 2025-26. Si tiene algún estudiante que ingresará a Kindergarten, asegúrese de completar el Formulario de Encuesta de Niños en Edad Preescolar que se encuentra en el enlace a continuación y envíelo a la oficina principal, a la atención de Mandy Belcher, Registradora Escolar.

Survey of Preschool Children.pdf

[SPANISH] Survey of Preschool Children.pdf

¡La inscripción para Kindergarten del año escolar 2025-26 ya está abierta!

Si tiene un niño que cumplirá 5 años antes del 30 de septiembre, será elegible para asistir a Kindergarten el próximo año.

Los documentos de inscripción pueden descargarse en https://www.fcps.edu/sites/default/files/media/forms/Enroll_Pre-Kindergarten_Experience.pdf. Una vez que haya completado los formularios y reunido los documentos requeridos, visite la oficina principal para reunirse con nuestra registradora, la Sra. Mandy Belcher ([email protected]).

También puede optar por utilizar nuestra herramienta de inscripción en línea en https://www.fcps.edu/online-registration. Si elige la opción en línea, deberá acudir a la oficina con el certificado de nacimiento original del niño, su comprobante de residencia (escritura o contrato de arrendamiento) y su identificación.

Tenga en cuenta que el formulario médico del Commonwealth de Virginia (que muestra las vacunas y el examen físico) puede enviarse más tarde, siempre que lo entreguemos a más tardar el 15 de agosto de 2025.

Si tiene alguna pregunta, no dude en comunicarse con la Sra. Belcher.

Se recomienda encarecidamente realizar la inscripción anticipada.

Inscríbete para la Noche de Lenguaje y Cultura Familiar – 6 de febrero

Ven a compartir la cultura de tu familia a través de la comida y la música y celebremos juntos la increíble diversidad de Belvedere. La Noche de Lenguaje y Cultura Familiar se llevará a cabo el jueves 6 de febrero, de 6:00 a 7:30 p.m. Si estás interesado en traer un platillo o refrigerio, tocar música o realizar una breve presentación que refleje la herencia de tu familia, inscríbete aquí antes del 1 de febrero.

Para cualquier pregunta, comunícate con la PTA de Belvedere en [email protected] o con Ellen Serafini en [email protected]. ¡Esperamos celebrar juntos la diversidad lingüística y cultural de nuestros estudiantes!

Únete a la reunión comunitaria del 5 de febrero

La próxima reunión comunitaria se llevará a cabo el miércoles 5 de febrero a las 6:30 p.m. Hablaremos sobre los próximos eventos comunitarios, incluyendo la Noche de Lenguaje y Cultura Familiar, Noche de Cine el 27 de febrero, Belvedere Ballers en marzo y la Subasta Anual de Primavera.

Las reuniones de la PTA duran aproximadamente una hora y se ofrecen en un formato híbrido: en línea y en persona en la cafetería de BES. Habrá traducción al español en la reunión virtual, así que únete por Zoom si necesitas apoyo en español.

El enlace virtual se compartirá con anticipación a través de News You Choose y MemberHub (la plataforma de comunicación de la PTA para miembros).

Los niños son bienvenidos a asistir en persona a Belvedere; habrá un espacio en la cafetería para que puedan merendar, jugar, usar dispositivos electrónicos, leer y/o colorear. Todo el personal y las familias de BES están invitados a participar en estas reuniones, compartir ideas, hacer preguntas y ofrecerse como voluntarios. Recuerda que debes ser miembro de la PTA para votar sobre cualquier decisión financiera que se tome en las reuniones.

 

Presupuesto

Consulta el Kit de herramientas del Presupuesto Propuesto para el Año Fiscal 2026, donde encontrarás un ejemplo de publicación para redes sociales, enlaces a las cartas dirigidas al personal y las familias, y otros recursos.

Boletín informativo:

📸 Imagen

Presupuesto Propuesto Presentado a la Junta Escolar

La Superintendente, Dra. Michelle Reid, presentó el Presupuesto Propuesto para el Año Fiscal (FY) 2026 durante la reunión de la Junta Escolar el jueves 23 de enero. Mira el video de la presentación.

Como señaló la Dra. Reid en su carta a las familias del 24 de enero:

"El presupuesto es fiscalmente responsable e invierte en la excelencia, no solo para FCPS, sino para todos en el Condado de Fairfax que desean una comunidad fuerte con jóvenes exitosos, educadores y personal de apoyo dedicados, y una economía próspera."

El presupuesto propuesto refleja las necesidades y los compromisos de FCPS con los estudiantes, familias y miembros de la comunidad del Condado de Fairfax. Se enfoca en:

✅ Compensación competitiva, incluyendo un aumento salarial del 7.0% para todo el personal, con el objetivo de atraer y retener a nuestros destacados educadores, administradores y personal escolar y operativo.

✅ Inversión en estudiantes que requieren apoyo adicional.

✅ Continuación de iniciativas a varios años, como la educación preescolar inclusiva y mejoras en seguridad.

📌 Obtén más información en la página web del Presupuesto.

¡Nominaciones Abiertas para los Premios First-Class!

📢 Boletín Informativo:

🏅 El Comité Asesor para Estudiantes con Discapacidades Busca Nominaciones para los Premios First-Class

Los Premios First-Class se otorgan cada año a personas que apoyan, diseñan y/o implementan actividades de inclusión que generan resultados positivos para los estudiantes. El Comité Asesor para Estudiantes con Discapacidades (ACSD) está aceptando nominaciones para los Premios First-Class 2025.

Esta es una excelente oportunidad para que la comunidad reconozca y celebre los esfuerzos de inclusión de educadores, administradores y estudiantes que promueven la participación de estudiantes con discapacidades en todos los aspectos de la educación.

Los nominados deben:

✅ Demostrar excelencia en su rol en relación con la educación especial.
✅ Tener un impacto positivo en estudiantes con y sin discapacidades.
✅ Comprometerse con la creación de un entorno inclusivo y una mentalidad de inclusión.

📌 Nomina a un administrador, miembro del personal, estudiante o socio comunitario que haya hecho una contribución excepcional a las prácticas inclusivas en las Escuelas Públicas del Condado de Fairfax.

⏳ Las nominaciones cierran el miércoles 19 de febrero.

Ombudsman

Boletines

Oficina del Ombudsman: ¡A su servicio!

El personal del Ombudsman interactúa con los empleados, familias y estudiantes de FCPS para ofrecer recursos y mejorar la experiencia de cada miembro de la comunidad de FCPS. Trabajan como un recurso confidencial e independiente para ayudar a obtener respuestas a preguntas, resolver inquietudes y escuchar quejas relacionadas con los asuntos de FCPS.

Los miembros del personal de la oficina del Ombudsman están disponibles para ayudar a resolver desacuerdos entre padres/cuidadores y las escuelas. No cambian ni toman decisiones, políticas o regulaciones; no toman partido; ni brindan asesoría legal.

Cualquier persona con inquietudes, preguntas o quejas para compartir con la Oficina del Ombudsman puede llamar al 571-423-4014, enviar un correo electrónico a [email protected], o visitar su página web, donde podrá Enviar una Pregunta.

🏗️ Los proyectos de construcción propuestos por FCPS ofrecen beneficios para toda la comunidad

Los planes actualizados de Fairfax County Public Schools para la construcción de nuevas escuelas, mejoras en la capacidad y renovaciones se describen en el programa propuesto de Mejoras de Capital (CIP) para el período fiscal 2026-30. Los proyectos incluyen la construcción de dos nuevas escuelas primarias; renovaciones en 18 escuelas primarias, dos escuelas secundarias y dos preparatorias; y la reubicación de edificios modulares.

El CIP propuesto fue presentado al Consejo Escolar en la sesión de trabajo del 14 de enero. También se celebró una audiencia pública el 14 de enero. El Consejo Escolar tomará una decisión sobre el CIP propuesto en su reunión del jueves 6 de febrero.

Qué pueden hacer las familias para combatir el abuso de drogas

FCPS está comprometido en aumentar la conciencia sobre la epidemia de opioides entre nuestros educadores, padres/cuidadores y estudiantes. Juntos, podemos ayudar a garantizar que nuestros estudiantes prosperen.

¿Qué pueden hacer las familias?

Muestre que desaprueba el consumo de alcohol en menores y el abuso de otras drogas. Más del 80% de los jóvenes de entre 10 y 18 años dicen que sus padres son la principal influencia en su decisión de beber o no.
Muestre que le importa la salud, el bienestar y el éxito de su hijo.
Muestre que es una buena fuente de información sobre el alcohol y otras drogas. Encuentre recursos útiles en la página web de Conciencia sobre los Opioides de FCPS.
Preste atención a su hijo y desanime los comportamientos riesgosos.
Desarrolle las habilidades y estrategias de su hijo para evitar el consumo de alcohol y drogas. Hable con su hijo sobre lo que haría si se enfrenta a una decisión sobre alcohol y drogas, como enviar un mensaje de texto con una palabra clave a un miembro de la familia o practicar cómo decir, “No, gracias.”

Obtenga más información sobre la concienciación sobre los opioides.

📍 Actualizaciones de la Revisión Integral de Límites

Reuniones virtuales de la Comunidad para la Revisión Integral de Límites se llevarán a cabo:

• sábado, 25 de enero de 2025, 9:30-11 a.m. 

• lunes, 27 de enero de 2025, de 6:30 a 8 p.m. 

• martes, 28 de enero de 2025, de 6:30 a 8 p.m. 

• lunes, 10 de febrero de 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

 

La inscripción estará disponible próximamente en la página web de Revisión Integral de Límites, donde también podrá informarse sobre el proceso de revisión de límites. Inscríbase también en nuestro boletín de Revisión de Límites Escolares.

📈 Resumen de la evaluación de los estudiantes de Virginia para las familias

Este mes, las familias de los estudiantes que tomaron alguna prueba de Estándares de aprendizaje (SOL) entre los años escolares 2015-16 y 2023-24 recibirán un Informe de resumen de la evaluación de los estudiantes. El informe muestra la clasificación percentil estatal de un estudiante para cada prueba. Esto permite a las familias ver cómo se clasificó su hijo en comparación con todos los estudiantes de Virginia que tomaron la misma prueba ese año.

Los informes ya están disponibles en los documentos ParentVUE de SIS. Las escuelas los distribuirán este mes a los estudiantes cuyas familias no tienen acceso a ParentVUE. Obtenga información sobre cómo acceder a ParentVUE.

El informe tiene como objetivo ayudar a las familias a reflexionar sobre el desempeño de su hijo en todas las materias evaluadas a lo largo de los años. Nuestras escuelas y nuestro personal están comprometidos a trabajar con las familias para apoyar a cada estudiante para que tenga éxito en su máximo potencial. Obtenga más información sobre las evaluaciones de los estudiantes en FCPS.

Se Viene Pronto la Encuesta de SR&R y Política de Celulares

Todas las familias de FCPS y estudiantes de escuelas intermedias y secundarias recibirán una invitación por correo electrónico el martes, 21 de enero, para participar en una encuesta acerca de los Derechos y Responsabilidades del Estudiante (SR&R) de FCPS, Política de Teléfonos Celulares, y opciones de almacenamiento de teléfonos celulares. La encuesta estará disponible del 21 de enero al 3 de febrero. Por favor tómese unos minutos para compartir su opinión y ayudar a FCPS a tomar decisiones informadas e inclusivas para todas nuestras escuelas.

El libro de calificaciones estará disponible hasta el final del trimestre

En base a los comentarios de la comunidad sobre el cierre del primer trimestre, FCPS revisó las fechas programadas para cerrar los módulos del libro de calificaciones y el boletín de calificaciones en las aplicaciones SIS ParentVUE y StudentVUE.

De ahora en adelante, la aplicación se cerrará en consonancia con las fechas reales de finalización del trimestre. Este cambio permitirá que los estudiantes y las familias vean sus tareas y calificaciones hasta el último día del trimestre. El libro de calificaciones estará cerrado durante el segundo trimestre desde el martes 28 de enero a las 4 p. m. hasta el martes 4 de febrero a las 6 a. m.

Acceda a las calificaciones de su hijo a través de SIS ParentVue

Conozca cómo su cuenta ParentVUE le permite acceder fácilmente a los informes de calificaciones y otra información útil sobre su hijo.

🧥 Mantenga a su hijo abrigado durante las actividades al aire libre

¡El clima invernal ya llegó! Como recordatorio, asegúrese de que su hijo esté vestido apropiadamente con un abrigo abrigado y otra ropa para clima frío, para que pueda disfrutar cómodamente del tiempo al aire libre. Las escuelas monitorean el clima para detectar bajas temperaturas, avisos y advertencias de sensación térmica y avisos meteorológicos que pueden impedir que los niños estén afuera para actividades como el recreo o la educación física.

Vea los consejos de seguridad para el clima invernal y el frío extremo del condado de Fairfax.

Si necesita ayuda para conseguir ropa para clima frío para su familia, comuníquese con nuestra enlace familiar, Ivanova Plazas, en [email protected]. También puede comunicarse con la Planificación de Servicios Coordinados (CSP) del condado de Fairfax al 703-222-0880. Su personal multilingüe puede ayudarlo con cualquier desafío que esté enfrentando, incluidos alimentos, refugio, empleo, asistencia financiera y atención médica.

📑 Varsity Tutors ofrece asistencia a pedido sin costo

FCPS se ha asociado con Varsity Tutors para brindarles a los estudiantes y a las familias recursos adicionales para el aprendizaje. Todos los estudiantes pueden aprovechar los servicios de Varsity Tutors sin costo, incluidas clases semanales en línea en vivo; tutoría por chat las 24 horas del día, los 7 días de la semana; edición de ensayos; y recursos de estudio como contenido grabado, problemas de práctica y pruebas de diagnóstico. Obtenga más información sobre la tutoría en línea con Varsity Tutors.

❄️ Sea uno de los primeros en enterarse de los retrasos/cierres de escuelas

Mire este video para ver como FCPS toma decisiones sobre cierres por mal tiempo. 

El sitio web de FCPS es generalmente el primer lugar para enterarse de los cierres de emergencia por el clima. Otros canales de comunicación serán usados lo más pronto posible, incluyendo correo electrónico, texto, medios sociales, y estaciones de noticias. Aprenda más sobre cómo se comunican los cambios de horario.Sea uno de los primeros en enterarse de los retrasos y cierres por mal tiempo. Actualice su información de contacto en SIS ParentVUE. Los correos electrónicos y mensajes de texto se envían a los padres en función de las direcciones y números de teléfono móvil introducidos en esta plataforma.

🍲 Asistencia Alimentaria y Guía de Recursos

La inseguridad alimentaria impacta a más de 96,000 residentes del Condado de Fairfax. Hay muchos recursos disponibles para apoyar a aquellos que necesitan asistencia alimentaria. Aprenda cómo ayudar a estas familias y los muchos recursos disponibles para apoyar a aquellos que necesitan asistencia alimentaria en el sitio web del Condado de Fairfax, o consulte la Guía de Recursos de Servicios Humanos del condado.

Noticias de FCPS

En caso de que te lo hayas perdido en FCPS This Week, la división escolar compartió actualizaciones sobre los siguientes temas y otros:

• Informes de puntajes SOL
• Próxima presentación del presupuesto
• Se necesitan jueces para la feria de ciencias

Lee FCPS This Week para obtener más información sobre estos temas. Si aún no recibes este boletín semanal, regístrate hoy.

Comidas gratuitas o a precio reducido (FRM)

Obtenga más información sobre los criterios y el proceso para solicitar desayuno y almuerzo gratuitos o a precio reducido.

Si necesita ayuda con la solicitud de comidas gratuitas o a precio reducido, visite a la coordinadora familiar de Belvedere, la Sra. Plazas, en el Centro para padres o puede llamar a su oficina al (703) 916-6824.

Programa FCPS CARES

El Programa FCPS CARES permite a los padres, el personal y los miembros de la comunidad reconocer a los empleados de FCPS que hacen todo lo posible para ayudar a los demás y demostrar que se preocupan por sus estudiantes, colegas y la comunidad. Lo invitamos a enviar una historia a continuación para reconocer el gran trabajo de un empleado o grupo de empleados de FCPS que deberían recibir el reconocimiento FCPS CARES.

Tenga en cuenta lo siguiente antes de enviar un FCPS CARES:

• Se enviará un correo electrónico de notificación, con el texto del envío incluido, a los destinatarios y se copiará al supervisor del destinatario.
• Todos los envíos se publicarán en nuestra página web FCPS CARES y se compartirán a través de otros medios de comunicación de FCPS.
• Los envíos que contengan información personal o confidencial pueden editarse para proteger la privacidad de las personas.
• No dude en redactar su envío utilizando un editor de texto como Microsoft Word y luego péguelo en el cuadro de texto que se proporciona a continuación.

Si tiene preguntas, envíe un correo electrónico a [email protected].

¡Lea más y envíe un FCPS CARES hoy mismo!

Belvedere está en Instagram

¡Bienvenidos nuevamente, familias de Belvedere! 🎉 ¡Nuevo año escolar, nueva cuenta de Instagram! 📸 Estamos encantados de compartir todos los momentos increíbles que nos esperan. ¡Estén atentos y sígannos!

https://www.instagram.com/belvedereelem/

Mantenerse en contacto

Visita el sitio web de Belvedere

Informar ausencias de estudiantes

Sitio web de FCPS Bus Delay

Sigue a Belvedere en Twitter

Cambia tus preferencias de correo electrónico

6540 Columbia Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041 | Office: 703-916-6800
Attendance: 703-916-6868 | Web | Twitter

From the School Administration

Dear Belvedere Families,

This week the Justice Pyramid Principals met for our monthly meeting. We are nine schools united in our shared vision of creating environments centered on High Expectations, Belonging, Joy, and Success.

We lead by guiding principles of:

1. High Expectations:

• Encourages all students to strive for academic and personal excellence.
• Promotes professional development among educators to uphold the highest teaching standards.
• Sets a clear framework for achieving equitable outcomes, ensuring that every student has access to challenging and engaging learning experiences.

• Belonging:

• Builds inclusive school cultures where students feel valued and supported.
• Enhances connections between families, staff, and communities, fostering partnerships to improve student achievement.
• Emphasizes social-emotional learning and practices that reinforce empathy, respect, and understanding among peers and staff.

• Joy:

• Prioritizes a vibrant and enriching educational experience that sparks a lifelong love for learning.
• Encourages student-driven projects, celebrations, and activities that highlight individual and group achievements.
• Embodies a holistic view of education by nurturing creativity, curiosity, and a sense of wonder in students and staff alike.

• Success:

• Recognizes that success is multidimensional, extending beyond academics to include character development and community contributions.
• Uses data-driven strategies and evidence-based interventions to support personalized learning and skill mastery.
• Celebrates milestones and achievements to motivate and inspire students, staff, and families to pursue continuous growth.

The shared commitment of the Justice Pyramid schools to these values strengthens the bond among communities while ensuring a unified, student-centered approach to education. Together, we work to create pathways for every learner to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Thank you for your partnership in education

Warm regards,

Cecilia Vanderhye, Principal

 

Message from Belvedere's Registrar

If you have a child who turns 5 years old by September 30, 2025, they will be eligible to attend Kindergarten for the 2025-26 school year. If you have any rising Kindergarten students, please be sure to complete the Survey of Pre School Children Form that is linked below and send in to the front office, attention of Mandy Belcher, School Registrar.

Survey of Preschool Children.pdf

[SPANISH] Survey of Preschool Children.pdf

Kindergarten Registration for the 2025-26 School Year is Now Open!

If you have a child who will be 5 years old by September 30, they are eligible to attend Kindergarten for the upcoming year. 

Registration paperwork can be downloaded at https://www.fcps.edu/sites/default/files/media/forms/Enroll_Pre-Kindergarten_Experience.pdf.  Once you have completed the paperwork and gathered the required documents, please come into the front office to meet with our registrar, Mrs. Mandy Belcher ([email protected]).

Alternatively, you can now choose to use our online registration tool https://www.fcps.edu/online-registration.  If you choose the online option, you will then have to come into the office with the child’s original birth certificate, your proof of residence (deed/lease) and your ID.

Please note the Commonwealth of VA medical form (showing immunizations and physical exam) can be submitted at a later date, as long as we have this by August 15, 2025 at the latest.

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to reach out to Mrs. Belcher.

Early registration is strongly encouraged.

  Sign up for Family Language and Culture Night, Feb. 6

Come share your family culture through food and music and celebrate Belvedere’s incredible diversity. Family Language + Culture Night will be held from 6-7:30 p.m., on Thursday, Feb. 6. If you’re interested in bringing a dish or snack, play music or put on a short performance that reflects your family’s heritage, please sign up here by Feb. 1. Contact  Belvedere PTA at [email protected] or Ellen Serafini at [email protected] with any questions. We look forward to celebrating our students' linguistic and cultural diversity together.   

Join us for Feb. 5 community meeting 

Next month’s community meeting will be Wednesday, Feb. 5, at 6:30 pm. We will discuss upcoming community events including Family Language & Culture Night, Movie Night on Feb. 27, Belvedere Ballers in March and the annual Spring Auction. PTA meetings last about an hour and are offered in a hybrid format – both online and in person in the BES cafeteria. Spanish translation is available as part of the virtual format, so please join us via Zoom if you require Spanish support. 

The virtual link will be shared via News You Choose and via MemberHub (PTA’s communication link for members) in advance of the meeting. Children are welcome to join in person at Belvedere, and there will be space for them in the cafeteria to snack, play games, use electronics, read and/or color. All staff and BES families are welcome to join these meetings, share ideas, ask questions and volunteer. You must be a PTA member to vote on any financial decisions made during meetings.

Volunteers needed for Movie Night, Feb. 27 

We need 2 people to work with PTA leaders to coordinate our next Belvedere Movie Night on Feb. 27. The movie will be the very popular Pixar movie Inside Out 2! Time commitment will be less than 5 hours total, including about 2.5 hours for day-of event needs. Drop a note to Belvedere PTA at [email protected] if you can help make this event another special experience for our school community.  

Budget

Check out the FY 2026 Proposed Budget Toolkit for a sample social media post, links to the staff and family letters, and other resources.

Newsletter:

• Image 

• Proposed Budget Presented to School Board

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid presented the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Proposed Budget at the School Board meeting on Thursday, January 23. Watch a video of the presentation. 

As Dr. Reid noted in her January 24 letter to families, “The budget is fiscally responsible and invests in excellence — not just for FCPS, but for all of us in Fairfax County who want a strong community with successful young people, dedicated educators and support staff, and a thriving economy.” 

The proposed budget reflects the needs of and FCPS’ commitments to Fairfax County students, families, and community members. It focuses on competitive compensation, including a 7.0% salary increase for all staff to recruit and retain our outstanding educators, administrators, and other school-based and operational staff dedicated to the success of our students; investing in students who require additional support; and continuing multiyear initiatives such as inclusive preschool and safety and security updates.

Learn more on the Budget webpage. 

Nominations Open for First-Class Awards

Newsletters:

• 🏅 Advisory Committee for Students With Disabilities Seeks Nominations for First-Class Awards

First-Class Awards are presented each year to individuals who support, design, and/or implement inclusion activities that result in positive outcomes for students. The Advisory Committee for Students with Disabilities (ACSD) is seeking nominations for the 2025 First-Class Awards. This is a great opportunity for the community to recognize and celebrate the inclusion efforts of educators, administrators, and students who demonstrate the inclusion of students with disabilities in all facets of education. 

Nominees should model excellence in their role relative to special education, have a positive impact that benefits disabled and non-disabled students alike, and be committed to creating an inclusive environment and mindset.

Nominate an administrator, staff member, student, or community partner who has made an exceptional contribution to inclusive practices in Fairfax County Public Schools. Nominations close Wednesday, February 19.

Ombuds

Newsletters

• Office of the Ombuds: At Your Service!

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

Ombuds office staff members are available to help resolve disagreements between parents/caregivers and schools. They do not change or make decisions, policies, or regulations; take sides; or provide legal advice.

Anyone with concerns, questions, or complaints to share with the Office of the Ombuds may call 571-423-4014, email [email protected], or visit their webpage, where you may Submit a Question.

🏗️ FCPS’ Proposed Construction Projects Offer Community-Wide Benefits

Fairfax County Public Schools updated plans for new school construction, capacity enhancements, and renovations are outlined in the proposed FY 2026-30 Capital Improvement Program (CIP). Projects include constructing two new elementary schools; renovations at 18 elementary schools, two middle schools, and two high schools; and relocation of modular buildings.

The proposed CIP was presented to the School Board at the January 14 work session. A public hearing was also held January 14. The School Board will take action on the proposed CIP at its Thursday, February 6, meeting.

What Families Can Do to Fight Drug Misuse

FCPS is committed to raising awareness about the opioid epidemic with our educators, parents/caregivers, and students. Together, we can help ensure our students thrive.

What can families do?

• Show you disapprove of underage drinking and other drug misuse. More than 80% of young people ages 10-18 say their parents are the leading influence on their decision whether to drink. 
• Show you care about your child’s health, wellness, and success. 
• Show you are a good source of information about alcohol and other drugs. Find helpful resources on the FCPS Opioid Awareness webpage. 
• Pay attention to your child and discourage risky behaviors. 
• Build your child’s skills and strategies for avoiding drinking and drug use. Talk with your child about what they would do if faced with a decision about alcohol and drugs, such as texting a code word to a family member or practicing how they will say, “No thanks.”

Get more information on opioid awareness.

📍 Virtual Community Boundary Review Meetings

If you have not been able to attend a Community Boundary Review meeting yet, it’s not too late! The following virtual meetings will have the same format and information available as the previous in-person meetings:

 

• Saturday, January 25, 9:30-11 a.m. 
• Monday, January 27, 6:30-8 p.m. 
• Tuesday, January 28, 6:30-8 p.m. 
• Monday, February 10, 6:30-8 p.m. 

 

Click one of the dates above to register and receive your unique Zoom link. Please note that each virtual meeting will be capped at 400 participants to help provide a meaningful experience for all. Language interpretation will be available. Learn about FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review. Sign up for the School Boundary Review newsletter for updates.

📈 Virginia’s Student Assessment Summary for Families

This month, families of students who took any Standards of Learning (SOL) test between school years 2015-16 and 2023-24 will receive a Student Assessment Summary Report. The report shows a student’s state percentile ranking for each test. This allows families to see how their child ranked compared to all Virginia students who took the same test that year. 

Reports are available now in SIS ParentVUE Documents. They will be distributed by schools this month to students whose families do not have ParentVUE access. Learn how to access ParentVUE. 

The report is intended to help families reflect on how their child performed across all tested subjects over the years. Our schools and staff are committed to working with families to support every student to succeed at their highest potential. Learn more about student assessments in FCPS.

SR&R and Cell Phone Policy Survey

All FCPS families and middle and high school students have received an invitation to participate in a survey about FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R), cell phone policy, and cell phone storage options. The survey will be available through Monday, February 3. Please take a few moments to share your feedback and help FCPS make informed, inclusive decisions for all of our schools!

Gradebook Available Until End-of-Quarter

Based on community feedback from the first quarter closure, FCPS revisited the scheduled dates for closing the Gradebook and Report Card modules in the SIS ParentVUE and StudentVUE apps. 

Moving forward, the app will close in alignment with the actual quarter-end dates. This change will allow students and families to view their assignments and grades until the last day of the quarter. Gradebook will be closed for the second quarter from Tuesday, January 28, 4 p.m. to Tuesday, February 4, 6 a.m.

Access Your Child’s Grades Through SIS ParentVue

Learn how your ParentVUE account allows you to easily access grade reports and other helpful information about your child.

🧥 Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

Winter weather is here! As a reminder, please make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy time outdoors. Schools monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories that may prevent children from being outside for activities like recess or physical education.

View Fairfax County’s Winter Weather/Extreme Cold safety tips. 

If you need assistance getting cold-weather clothing for your family, please contact our family liaison, Ivanova Plazas at [email protected]. You may also contact Fairfax County Coordinated Services Planning (CSP) at 703-222-0880. Their multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health care.

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes; on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring; essay editing; and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

❄️ Be Among the First to Hear About School Delays/Closings

Watch this video to see how FCPS makes weather closing decisions. 

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 among the first to hear about weather delays and closings! Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE. Emails and text messages are sent to parents and caregivers based on the addresses and cell phone numbers entered on this platform.

🍲 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.

If you need further assistance please contact either Jeffrey Hewitt, Social Worker, or Belvedere's Family Liaison, Iva Plazas.

FCPS News

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

• SOL Score Reports
• Upcoming Budget Presentation
• Science Fair Judges Needed

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

Free and Reduced-Price Meals (FRM)

Learn more about the criteria and process to apply for free or reduced-price breakfast and lunch.

If you need assistance with the Free and Reduced-Meal application, please visit Belvedere's Family Liaison, Mrs. Plazas in the Parent Center or you may call her office at (703) 916-6824

FCPS CARES Program

The FCPS CARES Program allows parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees who go above and beyond to help others and show they care about their students, colleagues, and the community. We invite you to submit a story below to acknowledge the great work of an FCPS employee or group of employees who should receive FCPS CARES recognition. 

Please take note of the following before submitting an FCPS CARES:

• A notification email, with the submission text included, will be sent to the recipient(s) and copied to the recipient's supervisor(s). 
• All submissions will be posted to our FCPS CARES webpage and shared via other FCPS news outlets.
• Submissions containing personal or sensitive information may be edited to protect individuals' privacy.
• Feel free to compose your submission using a text editor such as Microsoft Word, and then paste it into the text box provided.

For questions, please email [email protected].

Read more and Submit an FCPS CARES today!

Belvedere is on Instagram

Welcome back, Belvedere families! 🎉 New school year, new Instagram account! 📸 We’re thrilled to share all the incredible moments ahead. Stay tuned and follow along!

https://www.instagram.com/belvedereelem/

Upcoming Dates Keep in Touch

Visit the Belvedere website

Report student absences

Bus Delay Website

Follow Belvedere on X

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FCPS Calendar

6540 Columbia Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041 | Office: 703-916-6800
Attendance: 703-916-6868 | Web | Twitter

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From the School Administration

Dear Belvedere Families,

What a week we’ve had! It was packed with activities, energy, and teamwork, and we want to take a moment to acknowledge all that we accomplished together as a school community.

Despite two delays and some very frigid temperatures, we powered through with amazing flexibility and positivity. Highlights from this week include:

• Breakfasts with Families at VIP & Me sponsored by the PTA: A wonderful opportunity to connect with our school community. It was so well-attended, and we loved seeing our students with their special someone.
• Parent Coffee with a focus on Reading instruction: Thank you to our reading coaches for leading an engaging and informative session on reading instruction.
• 3rd Grade Field Trip: Our 3rd graders had an enriching visit to the library—thank you to the teachers and staff who made this possible.
• Kindergarten Field Trip: Our Kindergarteners had a wonderful opportunity to visit the National Gallery of Art to look for the Math! 

We are so grateful for our community’s dedication and teamwork this busy week. Let’s continue to build on this momentum as we move forward. Stay warm and have a restful weekend—you’ve earned it!  GO COMMANDERS!!!!!!!!!!

Warm regards,

Cecilia Vanderhye, Principal

Tara Boone, Assistant Principal

Kelly Cabezas, Assistant Principal 

Message from Belvedere's Registrar

If you have a child who turns 5 years old by September 30, 2025, they will be eligible to attend Kindergarten for the 2025-26 school year. If you have any rising Kindergarten students, please be sure to complete the Survey of Pre School Children Form that is linked below and send in to the front office, attention of Mandy Belcher, School Registrar.

Survey of Preschool Children.pdf

[SPANISH] Survey of Preschool Children.pdf

Kindergarten Registration for the 2025-26 School Year is Now Open!

If you have a child who will be 5 years old by September 30, they are eligible to attend Kindergarten for the upcoming year. 

Registration paperwork can be downloaded at https://www.fcps.edu/sites/default/files/media/forms/Enroll_Pre-Kindergarten_Experience.pdf.  Once you have completed the paperwork and gathered the required documents, please come into the front office to meet with our registrar, Mrs. Mandy Belcher ([email protected]).

Alternatively, you can now choose to use our online registration tool https://www.fcps.edu/online-registration.  If you choose the online option, you will then have to come into the office with the child’s original birth certificate, your proof of residence (deed/lease) and your ID.

Please note the Commonwealth of VA medical form (showing immunizations and physical exam) can be submitted at a later date, as long as we have this by August 15, 2025 at the latest.

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to reach out to Mrs. Belcher.

Early registration is strongly encouraged.

  Sign up for Family Language and Culture Night, Feb. 6

Come share your family culture through food and music and celebrate Belvedere’s incredible diversity. Family Language + Culture Night will be held from 6-7:30 p.m., on Thursday, Feb. 6. If you’re interested in bringing a dish or snack, play music or put on a short performance that reflects your family’s heritage, please sign up here by Feb. 1. Contact  Belvedere PTA at [email protected] or Ellen Serafini at [email protected] with any questions. We look forward to celebrating our students' linguistic and cultural diversity together.   

Join us for Feb. 5 community meeting 

Next month’s community meeting will be Wednesday, Feb. 5, at 6:30 pm. We will discuss upcoming community events including Family Language & Culture Night, Movie Night on Feb. 27, Belvedere Ballers in March and the annual Spring Auction. PTA meetings last about an hour and are offered in a hybrid format – both online and in person in the BES cafeteria. Spanish translation is available as part of the virtual format, so please join us via Zoom if you require Spanish support. 

The virtual link will be shared via News You Choose and via MemberHub (PTA’s communication link for members) in advance of the meeting. Children are welcome to join in person at Belvedere, and there will be space for them in the cafeteria to snack, play games, use electronics, read and/or color. All staff and BES families are welcome to join these meetings, share ideas, ask questions and volunteer. You must be a PTA member to vote on any financial decisions made during meetings.

🏗️ FCPS’ Proposed Construction Projects Offer Community-Wide Benefits

Fairfax County Public Schools updated plans for new school construction, capacity enhancements, and renovations are outlined in the proposed FY 2026-30 Capital Improvement Program (CIP). Projects include constructing two new elementary schools; renovations at 18 elementary schools, two middle schools, and two high schools; and relocation of modular buildings.

The proposed CIP was presented to the School Board at the January 14 work session. A public hearing was also held January 14. The School Board will take action on the proposed CIP at its Thursday, February 6, meeting.

What Families Can Do to Fight Drug Misuse

FCPS is committed to raising awareness about the opioid epidemic with our educators, parents/caregivers, and students. Together, we can help ensure our students thrive.

What can families do?

• Show you disapprove of underage drinking and other drug misuse. More than 80% of young people ages 10-18 say their parents are the leading influence on their decision whether to drink. 
• Show you care about your child’s health, wellness, and success. 
• Show you are a good source of information about alcohol and other drugs. Find helpful resources on the FCPS Opioid Awareness webpage. 
• Pay attention to your child and discourage risky behaviors. 
• Build your child’s skills and strategies for avoiding drinking and drug use. Talk with your child about what they would do if faced with a decision about alcohol and drugs, such as texting a code word to a family member or practicing how they will say, “No thanks.”

Get more information on opioid awareness.

📍 Virtual Community Boundary Review Meetings

If you have not been able to attend a Community Boundary Review meeting yet, it’s not too late! The following virtual meetings will have the same format and information available as the previous in-person meetings:

 

• Saturday, January 25, 9:30-11 a.m. 
• Monday, January 27, 6:30-8 p.m. 
• Tuesday, January 28, 6:30-8 p.m. 
• Monday, February 10, 6:30-8 p.m. 

 

Click one of the dates above to register and receive your unique Zoom link. Please note that each virtual meeting will be capped at 400 participants to help provide a meaningful experience for all. Language interpretation will be available. Learn about FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review. Sign up for the School Boundary Review newsletter for updates.

📈 Virginia’s Student Assessment Summary for Families

This month, families of students who took any Standards of Learning (SOL) test between school years 2015-16 and 2023-24 will receive a Student Assessment Summary Report. The report shows a student’s state percentile ranking for each test. This allows families to see how their child ranked compared to all Virginia students who took the same test that year. 

Reports are available now in SIS ParentVUE Documents. They will be distributed by schools this month to students whose families do not have ParentVUE access. Learn how to access ParentVUE. 

The report is intended to help families reflect on how their child performed across all tested subjects over the years. Our schools and staff are committed to working with families to support every student to succeed at their highest potential. Learn more about student assessments in FCPS.

SR&R and Cell Phone Policy Survey

All FCPS families and middle and high school students have received an invitation to participate in a survey about FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R), cell phone policy, and cell phone storage options. The survey will be available through Monday, February 3. Please take a few moments to share your feedback and help FCPS make informed, inclusive decisions for all of our schools!

Gradebook Available Until End-of-Quarter

Based on community feedback from the first quarter closure, FCPS revisited the scheduled dates for closing the Gradebook and Report Card modules in the SIS ParentVUE and StudentVUE apps. 

Moving forward, the app will close in alignment with the actual quarter-end dates. This change will allow students and families to view their assignments and grades until the last day of the quarter. Gradebook will be closed for the second quarter from Tuesday, January 28, 4 p.m. to Tuesday, February 4, 6 a.m.

Access Your Child’s Grades Through SIS ParentVue

Learn how your ParentVUE account allows you to easily access grade reports and other helpful information about your child.

🧥 Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

Winter weather is here! As a reminder, please make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy time outdoors. Schools monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories that may prevent children from being outside for activities like recess or physical education.

View Fairfax County’s Winter Weather/Extreme Cold safety tips. 

If you need assistance getting cold-weather clothing for your family, please contact our family liaison, Ivanova Plazas at [email protected]. You may also contact Fairfax County Coordinated Services Planning (CSP) at 703-222-0880. Their multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health care.

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes; on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring; essay editing; and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

❄️ Be Among the First to Hear About School Delays/Closings

Watch this video to see how FCPS makes weather closing decisions. 

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 among the first to hear about weather delays and closings! Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE. Emails and text messages are sent to parents and caregivers based on the addresses and cell phone numbers entered on this platform.

🍲 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.

If you need further assistance please contact either Jeffrey Hewitt, Social Worker, or Belvedere's Family Liaison, Iva Plazas.

FCPS News

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

• SOL Score Reports
• Upcoming Budget Presentation
• Science Fair Judges Needed

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

Free and Reduced-Price Meals (FRM)

Learn more about the criteria and process to apply for free or reduced-price breakfast and lunch.

If you need assistance with the Free and Reduced-Meal application, please visit Belvedere's Family Liaison, Mrs. Plazas in the Parent Center or you may call her office at (703) 916-6824

FCPS CARES Program

The FCPS CARES Program allows parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees who go above and beyond to help others and show they care about their students, colleagues, and the community. We invite you to submit a story below to acknowledge the great work of an FCPS employee or group of employees who should receive FCPS CARES recognition. 

Please take note of the following before submitting an FCPS CARES:

• A notification email, with the submission text included, will be sent to the recipient(s) and copied to the recipient's supervisor(s). 
• All submissions will be posted to our FCPS CARES webpage and shared via other FCPS news outlets.
• Submissions containing personal or sensitive information may be edited to protect individuals' privacy.
• Feel free to compose your submission using a text editor such as Microsoft Word, and then paste it into the text box provided.

For questions, please email [email protected].

Read more and Submit an FCPS CARES today!

Belvedere is on Instagram

Welcome back, Belvedere families! 🎉 New school year, new Instagram account! 📸 We’re thrilled to share all the incredible moments ahead. Stay tuned and follow along!

https://www.instagram.com/belvedereelem/

  January is National Mentoring Month!

Imagine a world where young people feel empowered, encouraged, and understood. Mentors can make that world a reality by helping young people find and follow their passions, excel in school, and thrive wherever they are.Learn more about Mentoring Month.

Research has shown that young people with at least one trusted mentor are less likely to skip school, less likely to use illegal drugs or drink alcohol, and more prepared to enter college or the workforce. Yet one in three children lack a mentor.

All it takes is one person to serve as a trusted adult to help change a young person’s path in life. Mentors provide attention, support, and enrichment, and help connect their mentees to resources that may help them on their journey in life.

The FCPS MentorWorks program matches mentors with students in schools near where they live or work. They meet for at least 30 minutes a week. Learn more about how to become a mentor for an FCPS student. Contact Martha Macdonald, mentoring specialist, for additional information at [email protected].

Upcoming Dates

January 29 - Quarter End, Lunar New Year

Lunar New Year falls at quarter end on Wednesday, January 29. The day will be a teacher work day and there will be no school for students. See the complete school year calendar.

 

Keep in Touch

Visit the Belvedere website

Report student absences

Bus Delay Website

Follow Belvedere on X

Change your email preferences

FCPS Calendar

6540 Columbia Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041 | Office: 703-916-6800
Attendance: 703-916-6868 | Web | Twitter

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

From the School Administration

Dear Belvedere Families,

We hope you enjoyed winter break with the extra days of snow.  During this first week back to school, students reengaged in learning across the curriculum while also revisiting classroom and school expectations.  We appreciate all that you do to ensure your child is ready for school each day.

Winter weather seems to be here to stay for a bit. As a reminder, please make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy time outdoors. We monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories that may prevent children from being outside for activities like recess or physical education.

Visit Fairfax County’s website for Winter Weather/Extreme Cold safety tips. 

If you need assistance getting cold-weather clothing for your family, please contact our family liaison, Ivanova Plazas at [email protected]. You may also contact Fairfax County Coordinated Services Planning (CSP) at 703-222-0880. Their multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health care. 

Please note that this coming Monday is Martin Luther King Day, so school will be closed.  We look forward to seeing our students back at school on Tuesday.

Warm regards,

Cecilia Vanderhye, Principal

Tara Boone, Assistant Principal

Kelly Cabezas, Assistant Principal 

Message from Belvedere's Registrar

If you have a child who turns 5 years old by September 30, 2025, they will be eligible to attend Kindergarten for the 2025-26 school year. If you have any rising Kindergarten students, please be sure to complete the Survey of Pre School Children Form that is linked below and send in to the front office, attention of Mandy Belcher, School Registrar.

Survey of Preschool Children.pdf

[SPANISH] Survey of Preschool Children.pdf

  Call for Volunteers + Donations: VIP + Me

We are looking for volunteers to help set-up and clean-up as part of the VIP & Me events on Jan. 22 and 23. You will need to be available to be at Belvedere ES from 7:30-9:30 a.m. on one (or both) of the days to help with setting out food and cleaning up after the event. While you are there, your student can join you for the event – active time is 8:15-9 a.m. We are also looking for donations for the breakfast including fruit, pastries, yogurt, juice and other continental breakfast items. Please sign up to volunteer and/or donate.

Dine out at Taco Zocalo on Jan. 23 

The first Spirit Night of 2025 will be at Taco Zocalo’s new location in Barcroft Plaza (6343-D Columbia Pike, Falls Church) on Jan. 23. Dinner orders – including to-go, delivery and dine-in – from 5-9 p.m. will count toward our event total. Take a look at their menu and share the news with your neighborhood!

Sign up for Family Language and Culture Night, Feb. 6

Come share your family culture through food and music and celebrate Belvedere’s incredible diversity. Family Language + Culture Night will be held from 6-7:30 p.m., on Thursday, Feb. 6. If you’re interested in bringing a dish or snack, play music or put on a short performance that reflects your family’s heritage, please sign up here by Feb. 1. Contact  Belvedere PTA at [email protected] or Ellen Serafini at [email protected] with any questions. We look forward to celebrating our students' linguistic and cultural diversity together!

Gradebook Available Until End-of-Quarter

Based on community feedback from the first quarter closure, FCPS revisited the scheduled dates for closing the Gradebook and Report Card modules in the SIS ParentVUE and StudentVUE apps. 

Moving forward, the app will close in alignment with the actual quarter-end dates. This change will allow students and families to view their assignments and grades until the last day of the quarter. Gradebook will be closed for the second quarter from Tuesday, January 28, 4 p.m. to Tuesday, February 4, 6 a.m.

Access Your Child’s Grades Through SIS ParentVue

Learn how your ParentVUE account allows you to easily access grade reports and other helpful information about your child.

🧥 Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

Winter weather is here! As a reminder, please make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy time outdoors. Schools monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories that may prevent children from being outside for activities like recess or physical education.

View Fairfax County’s Winter Weather/Extreme Cold safety tips. 

If you need assistance getting cold-weather clothing for your family, please contact our family liaison, Ivanova Plazas at [email protected]. You may also contact Fairfax County Coordinated Services Planning (CSP) at 703-222-0880. Their multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health care.

SR&R and Cell Phone Policy Survey Coming Soon

All FCPS families and middle and high school students will be receiving an email invitation on Tuesday, January 21, to participate in a survey about FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R), cell phone policy, and cell phone storage options. The survey will be available from January 21 to February 3. Please take a few moments to share your feedback and help FCPS make informed, inclusive decisions for all of our schools!

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes; on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring; essay editing; and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

❄️ Be Among the First to Hear About School Delays/Closings

Watch this video to see how FCPS makes weather closing decisions. 

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 among the first to hear about weather delays and closings! Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE. Emails and text messages are sent to parents and caregivers based on the addresses and cell phone numbers entered on this platform.

🗺️ Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration

Registration for the countywide lottery for Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program will open on Monday, January 13, 2025. Current pre-K students may apply for the kindergarten immersion program, and current kindergarten students may apply for the first grade immersion program for the 2024-25 school year. 

Dual Language Immersion is available in French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. 

Parents/caregivers who are interested may want to attend an informational meeting. Meetings are held at the school site. Visit the Dual Language Immersion Program Registration page for a list of meetings by language offered. 

Get more information on the DLI Program webpage and DLI Program Registration webpage.

🖥️ Free Webinars and Events for Families

In January, the Family Resource Center (FRC) will host webinars for families on:

• Overcoming School Refusal and Resistance
• Virtual Meeting for Siblings of Children with Special Needs
• FCPS Math Week
• Supporting Your Child’s Executive Functioning Skills
• Depression in Teens
• Understanding Trauma in Your Child/Comprendiedo el Trauma en su Hijo (presented in Spanish)

Sign up for the FRC newsletter or visit their webinar webpage.

Upcoming Family Academy Events

You are an important part of your child's education! The FCPS Family Academy compiles classes, webinars, workshops, and programs offered by FCPS to help you support your child's needs and learning at home. Browse Family Academy offerings.

Course Selection for Middle and High School Students

Beginning in January 2025, rising 6th – 12th grade students meet with their counselors to discuss course selection for the next school year. Families are encouraged to actively participate in this important process. 

As students choose courses, it is important for them to consider:

• Current academic strengths and habits.
• Graduation requirements (high school students).
• Interests and career and postsecondary goals.
• Personal well-being.
• Extracurricular activities and other commitments that may impact students’ time and energy.

School-life balance is an important consideration for students as they strive for academic and personal success. Families are welcome to contact their student’s school counselor with questions.

Winter Special Education and 504 Newsletter

The latest issue of the FCPS Special Education and 504 Newsletter is available online. Topics in this issue include:

• Community Resources for Families of Students with Disabilities
• Save the Date: 2025 Family Summit
• SEL Screener Results
• New Accessibility Resources
• Adapted Physical Education and Recreation Program
• Why Some Students with Disabilities Stay in FCPS Until Age 22
• VR Programs Supports Out-of-State Post Secondary Schools
• Executive Functioning Webinars
• Early Literacy Resources
• ESY and Assessment Webinar
• COVID-19 Compensatory Education: FCPS Service Delivery Options

Subscribe to the Special Education and 504 Newsletter.

🍲 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.

If you need further assistance please contact either Jeffrey Hewitt, Social Worker, or Belvedere's Family Liaison, Iva Plazas.

📚 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.

Free Birthday Cakes for Youth

Cake4Kids is a nonprofit that delivers free, custom homemade or any other celebratory sweets to at-risk and underserved youth in the Northern Virginia area.

• Link: Cake4Kids Website

Contact Mrs. Plazas for more information.

FCPS News

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

• Dress Children Warmly
• Proposed Construction Projects
• Dual Language Immersion Lottery

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

Free and Reduced-Price Meals (FRM)

Learn more about the criteria and process to apply for free or reduced-price breakfast and lunch.

If you need assistance with the Free and Reduced-Meal application, please visit Belvedere's Family Liaison, Mrs. Plazas in the Parent Center or you may call her office at (703) 916-6824

FCPS CARES Program

The FCPS CARES Program allows parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees who go above and beyond to help others and show they care about their students, colleagues, and the community. We invite you to submit a story below to acknowledge the great work of an FCPS employee or group of employees who should receive FCPS CARES recognition. 

Please take note of the following before submitting an FCPS CARES:

• A notification email, with the submission text included, will be sent to the recipient(s) and copied to the recipient's supervisor(s). 
• All submissions will be posted to our FCPS CARES webpage and shared via other FCPS news outlets.
• Submissions containing personal or sensitive information may be edited to protect individuals' privacy.
• Feel free to compose your submission using a text editor such as Microsoft Word, and then paste it into the text box provided.

For questions, please email [email protected].

Read more and Submit an FCPS CARES today!

Belvedere is on Instagram

Welcome back, Belvedere families! 🎉 New school year, new Instagram account! 📸 We’re thrilled to share all the incredible moments ahead. Stay tuned and follow along!

https://www.instagram.com/belvedereelem/

  January is National Mentoring Month!

Imagine a world where young people feel empowered, encouraged, and understood. Mentors can make that world a reality by helping young people find and follow their passions, excel in school, and thrive wherever they are.Learn more about Mentoring Month.

Research has shown that young people with at least one trusted mentor are less likely to skip school, less likely to use illegal drugs or drink alcohol, and more prepared to enter college or the workforce. Yet one in three children lack a mentor.

All it takes is one person to serve as a trusted adult to help change a young person’s path in life. Mentors provide attention, support, and enrichment, and help connect their mentees to resources that may help them on their journey in life.

The FCPS MentorWorks program matches mentors with students in schools near where they live or work. They meet for at least 30 minutes a week. Learn more about how to become a mentor for an FCPS student. Contact Martha Macdonald, mentoring specialist, for additional information at [email protected].

Upcoming Dates

January 19 - Orthodox Epiphany

FCPS has designated Orthodox Epiphany as a religious and cultural observance day. There is school on these days, however specific events that cannot be made up will not be held on these observance days. See the complete school year calendar.

January 20 - Martin Luther King Jr. Day Holiday

Schools and offices will be closed on Monday, January 20, for the Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday. See the complete school year calendar.

 

January 29 - Quarter End, Lunar New Year

Lunar New Year falls at quarter end on Wednesday, January 29. The day will be a teacher work day and there will be no school for students. See the complete school year calendar.

 

Keep in Touch

Visit the Belvedere website

Report student absences

Bus Delay Website

Follow Belvedere on X

Change your email preferences

FCPS Calendar

6540 Columbia Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041 | Office: 703-916-6800
Attendance: 703-916-6868 | Web | Twitter

January PTA Meeting Tonight Online and at BES

The January community meeting is tonight, Jan. 15, starting at 6:30 pm. Meetings last about an hour and are offered in a hybrid format – both online and in person in the Belvedere cafeteria. Spanish translation is available as part of the virtual format, so please join us via Zoom if you require Spanish support.

 

Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85368117748?pwd=Yze9Iwh7zoAoD9nlYbax59MgB6nNw5.1 

Meeting ID: 853 6811 7748

Passcode: 857904

 

One tap mobile

+13092053325,,85368117748#,,,,*857904# US 

Dial by your location • +1 309 205 3325 US

Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kcy6BquIsx

 

You can also follow the live stream at https://www.facebook.com/belvedere.pta Children are welcome to join in person at Belvedere, and there will be space for them in the cafeteria to snack, play games, use electronics, read and/or color.

All staff and BES families are welcome to join these meetings and we provide time to discuss your questions and ideas. You must be a PTA member to vote on any financial decisions made during meetings.

6540 Columbia Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041 | Office: 703-916-6800
Attendance: 703-916-6868 | Web | Twitter

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

From the School Administration

Dear Belvedere Families,

We hope you enjoyed time with your family and loved ones during the holiday break. The recent snowfall has given us the gift of an unexpected extended break and we hope you and your children enjoyed the weather and cozied up in the warmth of your home.   

A heartfelt thank you goes out to our incredible custodial staff for their tireless efforts in clearing the snow from our sidewalks, stairs, and parking lots. Your hard work ensures the safety and comfort of everyone, and we truly appreciate all that you do.

We’d also like to remind you that our next PTA meeting will be held next Wednesday at 6:30 PM. The meeting will be both in-person and virtual, and we hope you’ll join us to share ideas, stay connected, and support our wonderful community.

As we look ahead to 2025, we’re excited to have our halls filled with energy, smiles, and a renewed sense of purpose. Here’s to a year of growth, connection, and success for all!

Warm regards,

Cecilia Vanderhye, Principal

Tara Boone, Assistant Principal

Kelly Cabezas, Assistant Principal 

Gradebook Available Until End-of-Quarter

Based on community feedback from the first quarter closure, FCPS revisited the scheduled dates for closing the Gradebook and Report Card modules in the SIS ParentVUE and StudentVUE apps. 

Moving forward, the app will close in alignment with the actual quarter-end dates. This change will allow students and families to view their assignments and grades until the last day of the quarter. Gradebook will be closed for the second quarter from Tuesday, January 28, 4 p.m. to Tuesday, February 4, 6 a.m.

Access Your Child’s Grades Through SIS ParentVue

Learn how your ParentVUE account allows you to easily access grade reports and other helpful information about your child.

📵 Phones Down, Engagement Up: FCPS Cell Phone Policy

Keeping cell phones off during the school day helps students focus and learn. It also boosts positive social behavior. Review FCPS’ cell phone expectations by grade level with your child and help keep our classrooms free of distractions! If you need to reach your child during the school day, please call our main office at (703) 916-6800.

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes; on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring; essay editing; and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

❄️ Be Among the First to Hear About School Delays/Closings

Watch this video to see how FCPS makes weather closing decisions. 

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 among the first to hear about weather delays and closings! Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE. Emails and text messages are sent to parents and caregivers based on the addresses and cell phone numbers entered on this platform.

🗺️ Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration

Registration for the countywide lottery for Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program will open on Monday, January 13, 2025. Current pre-K students may apply for the kindergarten immersion program, and current kindergarten students may apply for the first grade immersion program for the 2024-25 school year. 

Dual Language Immersion is available in French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. 

Parents/caregivers who are interested may want to attend an informational meeting. Meetings are held at the school site. Visit the Dual Language Immersion Program Registration page for a list of meetings by language offered. 

Get more information on the DLI Program webpage and DLI Program Registration webpage.

🖥️ Free Webinars and Events for Families

In January, the Family Resource Center (FRC) will host webinars for families on:

• Overcoming School Refusal and Resistance
• Virtual Meeting for Siblings of Children with Special Needs
• FCPS Math Week
• Supporting Your Child’s Executive Functioning Skills
• Depression in Teens
• Understanding Trauma in Your Child/Comprendiedo el Trauma en su Hijo (presented in Spanish)

Sign up for the FRC newsletter or visit their webinar webpage.

Upcoming Family Academy Events

You are an important part of your child's education! The FCPS Family Academy compiles classes, webinars, workshops, and programs offered by FCPS to help you support your child's needs and learning at home. Browse Family Academy offerings.

Course Selection for Middle and High School Students

Beginning in January 2025, rising 6th – 12th grade students meet with their counselors to discuss course selection for the next school year. Families are encouraged to actively participate in this important process. 

As students choose courses, it is important for them to consider:

• Current academic strengths and habits.
• Graduation requirements (high school students).
• Interests and career and postsecondary goals.
• Personal well-being.
• Extracurricular activities and other commitments that may impact students’ time and energy.

School-life balance is an important consideration for students as they strive for academic and personal success. Families are welcome to contact their student’s school counselor with questions.

Winter Special Education and 504 Newsletter

The latest issue of the FCPS Special Education and 504 Newsletter is available online. Topics in this issue include:

• Community Resources for Families of Students with Disabilities
• Save the Date: 2025 Family Summit
• SEL Screener Results
• New Accessibility Resources
• Adapted Physical Education and Recreation Program
• Why Some Students with Disabilities Stay in FCPS Until Age 22
• VR Programs Supports Out-of-State Post Secondary Schools
• Executive Functioning Webinars
• Early Literacy Resources
• ESY and Assessment Webinar
• COVID-19 Compensatory Education: FCPS Service Delivery Options

Subscribe to the Special Education and 504 Newsletter.

  📍 Comprehensive Boundary Review Update

The Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee held its second meeting on December 16 at Gatehouse Administration Center. View key takeaways from that meeting and access the meeting agenda, slides, and other materials that committee members received.  If you did not get a chance to attend an in-person Community Boundary Review Meeting, please consider participating in a virtual meeting:

• Friday, January 10, 2025, 6-7:30 p.m. 

• Thursday, January 16, 2025, 1-2:30 p.m. 

• Saturday, January 25, 2025, 9:30-11 a.m. 

• Monday, January 27, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

• Tuesday, January 28, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 
• Monday, February 10, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

Language interpretation will be available. 

All virtual meetings will follow the same format as the in-person meetings that were recently held, and the same information will be shared. Please stay tuned for details on how to register. Visit FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage to learn more. Sign up for FCPS’ School Boundary Review newsletter as well.

🍲 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.

If you need further assistance please contact either Jeffrey Hewitt, Social Worker, or Belvedere's Family Liaison, Iva Plazas.

📚 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.

Free Birthday Cakes for Youth

Cake4Kids is a nonprofit that delivers free, custom homemade or any other celebratory sweets to at-risk and underserved youth in the Northern Virginia area.

• Link: Cake4Kids Website

Contact Mrs. Plazas for more information.

FCPS News

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

• National Merit Commended Scholars
• Celebrating the Best of 2024 in FCPS
• Cell Phones Off, Learning On

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

  NEW DATE: Join us to Discuss 2025 Plans & Activities  

This month’s community meeting will be Wednesday, Jan. 15 at 6:30 pm. We will discuss plans as we head into 2025, including VIP + Me on Jan. 22 and 23 and Family Culture Night in February. PTA meetings last about an hour and are offered in a hybrid format – both online and in person in the BES cafeteria. Spanish translation is available as part of the virtual format, so please join us via Zoom if you require Spanish support. 

The virtual link will be shared via News You Choose and via MemberHub (PTA’s communication link for members) in advance of the meeting. Children are welcome to join in person at Belvedere, and there will be space for them in the cafeteria to snack, play games, use electronics, read and/or color. All staff and BES families are welcome to join these meetings, share ideas, ask questions and volunteer. You must be a PTA member to vote on any financial decisions made during meetings.

Spirit Night: Taco Zocalo on Jan. 23 

The first Spirit Night of 2025 will be at Taco Zocalo’s new location in Barcroft Plaza (6343-D Columbia Pike, Falls Church) on Jan. 23. Dinner orders – including to-go, delivery and dine-in – from 5-9 p.m. will count toward our event total. Take a look at their menu and share the news with your neighborhood! 

Volunteer Opportunities: A Few Hours Can Help 

We are looking for volunteers to help with leading these upcoming activities. Don’t want to go it alone? Any of these volunteer needs can be shared.

Restaurant Night Coordinator: Connect with local restaurants and food trucks to create Restaurant Nights for the BES community every other month. Time commitment: 2-3 hours every other month until June 2025.

VIP & Me: Volunteer to set up continental breakfast and help plan two morning family-student events on Jan. 22 + 23. Time commitment: Less than 4 hours total, including event time (before school).

Movie Night Coordinator: Work with PTA leaders to coordinate our next Movie Night in late February. Time commitment: Less than 6 hours total, including day-of Movie Night needs.

School Directory Coordinator: Explore this opportunity to create a much-requested school resource. Time commitment: A few hours a month during the school year. Interested in any of these opportunities or other PTA volunteer needs? Send a note to [email protected].

Free and Reduced-Price Meals (FRM)

Learn more about the criteria and process to apply for free or reduced-price breakfast and lunch.

If you need assistance with the Free and Reduced-Meal application, please visit Belvedere's Family Liaison, Mrs. Plazas in the Parent Center or you may call her office at (703) 916-6824

FCPS CARES Program

The FCPS CARES Program allows parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees who go above and beyond to help others and show they care about their students, colleagues, and the community. We invite you to submit a story below to acknowledge the great work of an FCPS employee or group of employees who should receive FCPS CARES recognition. 

Please take note of the following before submitting an FCPS CARES:

• A notification email, with the submission text included, will be sent to the recipient(s) and copied to the recipient's supervisor(s). 
• All submissions will be posted to our FCPS CARES webpage and shared via other FCPS news outlets.
• Submissions containing personal or sensitive information may be edited to protect individuals' privacy.
• Feel free to compose your submission using a text editor such as Microsoft Word, and then paste it into the text box provided.

For questions, please email [email protected].

Read more and Submit an FCPS CARES today!

Belvedere is on Instagram

Welcome back, Belvedere families! 🎉 New school year, new Instagram account! 📸 We’re thrilled to share all the incredible moments ahead. Stay tuned and follow along!

https://www.instagram.com/belvedereelem/

  January is National Mentoring Month!

Imagine a world where young people feel empowered, encouraged, and understood. Mentors can make that world a reality by helping young people find and follow their passions, excel in school, and thrive wherever they are.Learn more about Mentoring Month.

Research has shown that young people with at least one trusted mentor are less likely to skip school, less likely to use illegal drugs or drink alcohol, and more prepared to enter college or the workforce. Yet one in three children lack a mentor.

All it takes is one person to serve as a trusted adult to help change a young person’s path in life. Mentors provide attention, support, and enrichment, and help connect their mentees to resources that may help them on their journey in life.

The FCPS MentorWorks program matches mentors with students in schools near where they live or work. They meet for at least 30 minutes a week. Learn more about how to become a mentor for an FCPS student. Contact Martha Macdonald, mentoring specialist, for additional information at [email protected].

Upcoming Dates

January 19 - Orthodox Epiphany

FCPS has designated Orthodox Epiphany as a religious and cultural observance day. There is school on these days, however specific events that cannot be made up will not be held on these observance days. See the complete school year calendar.

January 20 - Martin Luther King Jr. Day Holiday

Schools and offices will be closed on Monday, January 20, for the Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday. See the complete school year calendar.

 

January 29 - Quarter End, Lunar New Year

Lunar New Year falls at quarter end on Wednesday, January 29. The day will be a teacher work day and there will be no school for students. See the complete school year calendar.

 

Keep in Touch

Visit the Belvedere website

Report student absences

Bus Delay Website

Follow Belvedere on X

Change your email preferences

FCPS Calendar

6540 Columbia Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041 | Office: 703-916-6800
Attendance: 703-916-6868 | Web | Twitter

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

From the School Administration

Dear Belvedere Families,

As the holiday season approaches, we want to take a moment to thank you for your ongoing support and partnership throughout the year. This is a special time to create lasting memories with your family and friends, and we hope you enjoy every moment of it.

We encourage you to cherish this well-deserved break with your children, filled with joy, laughter, and togetherness. May your holidays be safe, relaxing, and full of love.

We look forward to welcoming all of our students back in the new year, refreshed and ready for another wonderful term.

Warm wishes for a happy holiday season and a fantastic New Year!

Cheers to a great break!

Warm regards,

Cecilia Vanderhye, Principal

Tara Boone, Assistant Principal

Kelly Cabezas, Assistant Principal 

Main Office Closed Over Winter Break

Belvedere's main office will be closed from Monday, December 23rd through Friday, January 3rd. The office will re-open on Monday, January 6th with the restart of school.

Last Call for Late Day Learners Sign-Ups

The new session of Late Day Learners will start January 13. Please register online at https://www.belvederepta.org no later than December 29, 2024.

🍎 Make Every Day Count! The Importance of Attendance

As you plan upcoming trips and other family events, please remember the importance of sending your child to school every day. Review the FCPS School Year Calendar and try to plan any time away during breaks from school. 

Children who show up for school regularly develop fundamental reading and math skills while building a habit of good attendance that will carry them into college and careers. Research shows that children who were chronically absent (missing 18 days or more) in kindergarten and first grade were far less likely to read proficiently at the end of third grade.

Learn how families can help form good attendance habits.

 

🤒 When a Student Should Stay Home From School

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

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

If your child has a chronic illness, make sure to notify their teacher so that assistance can be provided if needed. Keep an open line of communication with your school's public health staff.

Read about how families can help form good attendance habits. Attend today, achieve tomorrow!

❄️ Be Among the First to Hear About School Delays/Closings

Watch this video to see how FCPS makes weather closing decisions. 

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 among the first to hear about weather delays and closings! Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE. Emails and text messages are sent to parents and caregivers based on the addresses and cell phone numbers entered on this platform.

🗺️ Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration

Registration for the countywide lottery for Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program will open on Monday, January 13, 2025. Current pre-K students may apply for the kindergarten immersion program, and current kindergarten students may apply for the first grade immersion program for the 2024-25 school year. 

Dual Language Immersion is available in French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. 

Parents/caregivers who are interested may want to attend an informational meeting. Meetings are held at the school site. Visit the Dual Language Immersion Program Registration page for a list of meetings by language offered. 

Get more information on the DLI Program webpage and DLI Program Registration webpage.

🖥️ Free Webinars and Events for Families

In January, the Family Resource Center (FRC) will host webinars for families on:

• Overcoming School Refusal and Resistance
• Virtual Meeting for Siblings of Children with Special Needs
• FCPS Math Week
• Supporting Your Child’s Executive Functioning Skills
• Depression in Teens
• Understanding Trauma in Your Child/Comprendiedo el Trauma en su Hijo (presented in Spanish)

Sign up for the FRC newsletter or visit their webinar webpage.

Upcoming Family Academy Events

You are an important part of your child's education! The FCPS Family Academy compiles classes, webinars, workshops, and programs offered by FCPS to help you support your child's needs and learning at home. Browse Family Academy offerings.

Course Selection for Middle and High School Students

Beginning in January 2025, rising 6th – 12th grade students meet with their counselors to discuss course selection for the next school year. Families are encouraged to actively participate in this important process. 

As students choose courses, it is important for them to consider:

• Current academic strengths and habits.
• Graduation requirements (high school students).
• Interests and career and postsecondary goals.
• Personal well-being.
• Extracurricular activities and other commitments that may impact students’ time and energy.

School-life balance is an important consideration for students as they strive for academic and personal success. Families are welcome to contact their student’s school counselor with questions.

Winter Special Education and 504 Newsletter

The latest issue of the FCPS Special Education and 504 Newsletter is available online. Topics in this issue include:

• Community Resources for Families of Students with Disabilities
• Save the Date: 2025 Family Summit
• SEL Screener Results
• New Accessibility Resources
• Adapted Physical Education and Recreation Program
• Why Some Students with Disabilities Stay in FCPS Until Age 22
• VR Programs Supports Out-of-State Post Secondary Schools
• Executive Functioning Webinars
• Early Literacy Resources
• ESY and Assessment Webinar
• COVID-19 Compensatory Education: FCPS Service Delivery Options

Subscribe to the Special Education and 504 Newsletter.

⛄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.

  📍 Comprehensive Boundary Review Update

The Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee held its second meeting on December 16 at Gatehouse Administration Center. View key takeaways from that meeting and access the meeting agenda, slides, and other materials that committee members received.  If you did not get a chance to attend an in-person Community Boundary Review Meeting, please consider participating in a virtual meeting:

• Friday, January 10, 2025, 6-7:30 p.m. 

• Thursday, January 16, 2025, 1-2:30 p.m. 

• Saturday, January 25, 2025, 9:30-11 a.m. 

• Monday, January 27, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

• Tuesday, January 28, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

• Monday, February 10, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

. 

Language interpretation will be available. 

All virtual meetings will follow the same format as the in-person meetings that were recently held, and the same information will be shared. Please stay tuned for details on how to register. Visit FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage to learn more. Sign up for FCPS’ School Boundary Review newsletter as well.

🍲 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.

If you need further assistance please contact either Jeffrey Hewitt, Social Worker, or Belvedere's Family Liaison, Iva Plazas.

📚 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.

Free Birthday Cakes for Youth

Cake4Kids is a nonprofit that delivers free, custom homemade or any other celebratory sweets to at-risk and underserved youth in the Northern Virginia area.

• Link: Cake4Kids Website

Contact Mrs. Plazas for more information.

FCPS News

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

• Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration
• Be Among the First to Hear About Closings/Delays
• Fall 2024 Sports Champions

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

  Join us to Discuss 2025 Plans & Activities  

Next month’s community meeting will be Wednesday, Jan. 8 at 6:30 pm. We will discuss plans as we head into 2025, including VIP + Me on Jan. 22 and 23 and Family Culture Night in February. PTA meetings last about an hour and are offered in a hybrid format – both online and in person in the BES cafeteria. Spanish translation is available as part of the virtual format, so please join us via Zoom if you require Spanish support. 

The virtual link will be shared via News You Choose and via MemberHub (PTA’s communication link for members) in advance of the meeting. Children are welcome to join in person at Belvedere, and there will be space for them in the cafeteria to snack, play games, use electronics, read and/or color. All staff and BES families are welcome to join these meetings, share ideas, ask questions and volunteer. You must be a PTA member to vote on any financial decisions made during meetings.

And the Winner is …  

Congratulations to the winner of the PTA’s first-ever handbag raffle: Meron Taressa. Their ticket was randomly selected by the Givebacks software system from more than 560 raffle entries. All proceeds from the raffle benefit Belvedere PTA initiatives, including classroom support for teachers and upcoming community events like Family Culture Night, monthly Teacher Treats and Fifth Grade Field Day. Thanks to the more than 120 people who bought tickets to support this fundraiser.

Spirit Night: Taco Zocalo on Jan. 23 

The first Spirit Night of 2025 will be at Taco Zocalo’s new location in Barcroft Plaza (6343-D Columbia Pike, Falls Church) on Jan. 23. Dinner orders – including to-go, delivery and dine-in – from 5-9 p.m. will count toward our event total. Take a look at their menu and share the news with your neighborhood! 

Volunteer Opportunities: A Few Hours Can Help 

We are looking for volunteers to help with leading these upcoming activities. Don’t want to go it alone? Any of these volunteer needs can be shared.

Restaurant Night Coordinator: Connect with local restaurants and food trucks to create Restaurant Nights for the BES community every other month. Time commitment: 2-3 hours every other month until June 2025.

VIP & Me: Volunteer to set up continental breakfast and help plan two morning family-student events on Jan. 22 + 23. Time commitment: Less than 4 hours total, including event time (before school).

Movie Night Coordinator: Work with PTA leaders to coordinate our next Movie Night in late February. Time commitment: Less than 6 hours total, including day-of Movie Night needs.

School Directory Coordinator: Explore this opportunity to create a much-requested school resource. Time commitment: A few hours a month during the school year. Interested in any of these opportunities or other PTA volunteer needs? Send a note to [email protected].

Free and Reduced-Price Meals (FRM)

Learn more about the criteria and process to apply for free or reduced-price breakfast and lunch.

If you need assistance with the Free and Reduced-Meal application, please visit Belvedere's Family Liaison, Mrs. Plazas in the Parent Center or you may call her office at (703) 916-6824

FCPS CARES Program

The FCPS CARES Program allows parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees who go above and beyond to help others and show they care about their students, colleagues, and the community. We invite you to submit a story below to acknowledge the great work of an FCPS employee or group of employees who should receive FCPS CARES recognition. 

Please take note of the following before submitting an FCPS CARES:

• A notification email, with the submission text included, will be sent to the recipient(s) and copied to the recipient's supervisor(s). 
• All submissions will be posted to our FCPS CARES webpage and shared via other FCPS news outlets.
• Submissions containing personal or sensitive information may be edited to protect individuals' privacy.
• Feel free to compose your submission using a text editor such as Microsoft Word, and then paste it into the text box provided.

For questions, please email [email protected].

Read more and Submit an FCPS CARES today!

Belvedere is on Instagram

Welcome back, Belvedere families! 🎉 New school year, new Instagram account! 📸 We’re thrilled to share all the incredible moments ahead. Stay tuned and follow along!

https://www.instagram.com/belvedereelem/

Upcoming Dates

Winter Break (Student Holiday)

As a reminder, winter break will be held Monday, December 23, to Friday, January 3. To help make sure you and your children have a restful break, we have asked that no homework be assigned during this time. Teachers may assign long-range assignments in the weeks ahead of the break, allowing students to practice time management skills, but no assignments will be due immediately following the break. We look forward to welcoming students back in the new year.

Classes resume on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. See the complete school year calendar.

Wednesday, December 25 - Christmas

🎄 A very Merry Christmas to those in our community who celebrate! Christmas is an annual holiday that commemorates the birth of Jesus of Nazareth, the person who stands at the heart of the Christian tradition. It is celebrated in many unique ways across the U.S. and the world, most commonly by the joyous giving of gifts. Learn more about Christmas.

Wednesday, December 25 - Chanukah

Chanukah, an 8-day Festival of Lights, is a Jewish holiday commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple and the miracle of a small quantity of oil that lit the Temple’s menorah for 8 days. This year, Chanukah begins at sundown on Wednesday, December 25. See the complete school year calendar.

Keep in Touch

Visit the Belvedere website

Report student absences

Bus Delay Website

Follow Belvedere on X

Change your email preferences

FCPS Calendar

6540 Columbia Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041 | Office: 703-916-6800
Attendance: 703-916-6868 | Web | Twitter

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

From the School Administration

Dear Belvedere Families,

We are on the homestretch before winter break, and it has been a fantastic week here at Belvedere! Justice the Bulldog has been greeting students each morning as they arrive, bringing smiles and setting a positive tone for the day. Our goal is to promote regular attendance and help students look forward to coming to school each day.

We’d like to remind you that absences can add up quickly, and every day of learning counts. Your continued support in ensuring students attend school daily—unless they are unwell—makes a big difference in their academic growth and success.

Winter break is a time for students to rest, enjoy family time, and reenergize for the new year. It’s also an opportunity to keep their reading skills sharp. We encourage you to spend time reading with your child during the break. This can include reading together, listening to your child read aloud, or even taking turns reading. Every little bit helps to maintain their progress and foster a love of reading.

Thank you for partnering with us to support your child’s education. We wish you a joyful holiday season filled with peace and happiness. We look forward to welcoming students back to school on January 6.

Warm regards,

Cecilia Vanderhye, Principal

Tara Boone, Assistant Principal

Kelly Cabezas, Assistant Principal 

🍎 Make Every Day Count! The Importance of Attendance

As you plan upcoming trips and other family events, please remember the importance of sending your child to school every day. Review the FCPS School Year Calendar and try to plan any time away during breaks from school. 

Children who show up for school regularly develop fundamental reading and math skills while building a habit of good attendance that will carry them into college and careers. Research shows that children who were chronically absent (missing 18 days or more) in kindergarten and first grade were far less likely to read proficiently at the end of third grade.

Learn how families can help form good attendance habits.

 

🤒 When a Student Should Stay Home From School

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

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

If your child has a chronic illness, make sure to notify their teacher so that assistance can be provided if needed. Keep an open line of communication with your school's public health staff.

Read about how families can help form good attendance habits. Attend today, achieve tomorrow!

Reminder:  Window for Full-Time AAP Referrals Closes on December 15, 2024

Parents/guardians of students in Grades 2-7 who would like their student to be considered for Full-Time advanced academic programs may submit the AAP Full-Time Referral Form to Jaclyn Walsh at [email protected] 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 Jaclyn Walsh at [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.

Staying Safe and Calm Over Winter Break and Beyond!

Formed Families Forward is pleased to offer a new training for parents and caregivers to boost family safety and wellness as you prepare for all of the excitement and disruptions of your children’s break from school and their expectations for winter holiday celebrations. Join us for an interactive workshop and get new strategies for managing the winter break and for starting the new year strong!

December 16, 2024

11:45 am-1:00 pm (with a light lunch provided) OR 

6:45 - 8:00 pm (with a light dinner provided) 

Location: Charles Houston Recreation Center

Address: 901 Wythe St., Alexandria, VA 22314

Simultaneous SPANISH interpretation is available upon request.  

Register Here: Staying Safe and Calm Over Winter Break and Beyond / Mantente seguro y tranquilo durante las vacaciones de invierno y más allá

Course Selection for Middle and High School Students

Beginning in January 2025, rising 6th – 12th grade students meet with their counselors to discuss course selection for the next school year. Families are encouraged to actively participate in this important process. 

As students choose courses, it is important for them to consider:

• Current academic strengths and habits.
• Graduation requirements (high school students).
• Interests and career and postsecondary goals.
• Personal well-being.
• Extracurricular activities and other commitments that may impact students’ time and energy.

School-life balance is an important consideration for students as they strive for academic and personal success. Families are welcome to contact their student’s school counselor with questions.

Winter Special Education and 504 Newsletter

The latest issue of the FCPS Special Education and 504 Newsletter is available online. Topics in this issue include:

• Community Resources for Families of Students with Disabilities
• Save the Date: 2025 Family Summit
• SEL Screener Results
• New Accessibility Resources
• Adapted Physical Education and Recreation Program
• Why Some Students with Disabilities Stay in FCPS Until Age 22
• VR Programs Supports Out-of-State Post Secondary Schools
• Executive Functioning Webinars
• Early Literacy Resources
• ESY and Assessment Webinar
• COVID-19 Compensatory Education: FCPS Service Delivery Options

Subscribe to the Special Education and 504 Newsletter.

⛄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.

  Community Meetings on the Comprehensive Boundary Review

If you did not get a chance to attend one of the recent community meetings on the Comprehensive Boundary Review, please consider attending the final meeting in this first phase of the boundary review process. The Region 1 meeting will take place Wednesday, December 18, 6:30-8 p.m.,in the Madison High School cafeteria. Register today. If you are unable to participate, stay tuned for details about virtual Community Boundary Review Meetings coming early next year.

View FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage for more information. Sign up for FCPS’ School Boundary Review newsletter as well.

🍲 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.

If you need further assistance please contact either Jeffrey Hewitt, Social Worker, or Belvedere's Family Liaison, Iva Plazas.

📚 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.

Free Birthday Cakes for Youth

Cake4Kids is a nonprofit that delivers free, custom homemade or any other celebratory sweets to at-risk and underserved youth in the Northern Virginia area.

• Link: Cake4Kids Website

Contact Mrs. Plazas for more information.

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. 

  Need a Special Gift? Handbag Raffle is About To End  

Looking for the ultimate holiday gift or a little luxury for yourself? Support Belvedere PTA and enter for a chance to win a stunning Louis Vuitton Neverfull MM

handbag!  This timeless piece is perfect for making someone’s season extra special or treating yourself to a well-deserved indulgence.

Tickets: $10/each, 3 for $20 or 8 for $50

⏳ Sales End: December 18, 2024, at 5:59 PM

📅 Drawing Date: December 18, 2024, at 6:00 PM

Where to Buy Tickets: Online. If you want to pay with cash or a check,  click "Contact Organizer," or reach out to any of the PTA Board Members, and we'll take care of you. 

This holiday season, give the gift of luxury while giving back to your community. This would also be a great gift for your child’s teacher as an end-of-year thank you! All proceeds benefit Belvedere PTA initiatives, including classroom support for teachers and upcoming community events like the Fun Run and Family Culture Night. 

Questions? Contact us at [email protected]

Come Cheer the BES Fun Run Saturday! 

Bring your Belvedere Bulldogs to the return of the Fun Run. We will gather at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 14, at the school to do some stretching, running and hot chocolate drinking! We are STILL looking for volunteers to help donate and/or serve hot chocolate, hand out lap counters, cheer the runners and clean-up.  Sign up here to help. The PTA will be collecting gift cards for BES community members in need this holiday season – please bring one to donate! 

Volunteer Opportunities: A Few Hours Can Help 

We are looking for volunteers to help with leading these upcoming activities. Don’t want to go it alone? Any of these volunteer needs can be shared.

Restaurant Night Coordinator: Connect with local restaurants and food trucks to create Restaurant Nights for the BES community every other month. Time commitment: 2-3 hours every other month until June 2025.

VIP & Me: Volunteer to set up continental breakfast and help plan two morning family-student events on Jan. 22 + 23. Time commitment: Less than 4 hours total, including event time (before school).

Movie Night Coordinator: Work with PTA leaders to coordinate our next Movie Night in late February. Time commitment: Less than 6 hours total, including day-of Movie Night needs.

School Directory Coordinator: Explore this opportunity to create a much-requested school resource. Time commitment: A few hours a month during the school year.

Interested in any of these opportunities or other PTA volunteer needs? Send a note to [email protected].

Free and Reduced-Price Meals (FRM)

Learn more about the criteria and process to apply for free or reduced-price breakfast and lunch.

If you need assistance with the Free and Reduced-Meal application, please visit Belvedere's Family Liaison, Mrs. Plazas in the Parent Center or you may call her office at (703) 916-6824

FCPS CARES Program

The FCPS CARES Program allows parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees who go above and beyond to help others and show they care about their students, colleagues, and the community. We invite you to submit a story below to acknowledge the great work of an FCPS employee or group of employees who should receive FCPS CARES recognition. 

Please take note of the following before submitting an FCPS CARES:

• A notification email, with the submission text included, will be sent to the recipient(s) and copied to the recipient's supervisor(s). 
• All submissions will be posted to our FCPS CARES webpage and shared via other FCPS news outlets.
• Submissions containing personal or sensitive information may be edited to protect individuals' privacy.
• Feel free to compose your submission using a text editor such as Microsoft Word, and then paste it into the text box provided.

For questions, please email [email protected].

Read more and Submit an FCPS CARES today!

Belvedere is on Instagram

Welcome back, Belvedere families! 🎉 New school year, new Instagram account! 📸 We’re thrilled to share all the incredible moments ahead. Stay tuned and follow along!

https://www.instagram.com/belvedereelem/

Upcoming Dates

Winter Break (Student Holiday)

As a reminder, winter break will be held Monday, December 23, to Friday, January 3. To help make sure you and your children have a restful break, we have asked that no homework be assigned during this time. Teachers may assign long-range assignments in the weeks ahead of the break, allowing students to practice time management skills, but no assignments will be due immediately following the break. We look forward to welcoming students back in the new year.

Classes resume on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. See the complete school year calendar.

Wednesday, December 25 - Christmas

🎄 A very Merry Christmas to those in our community who celebrate! Christmas is an annual holiday that commemorates the birth of Jesus of Nazareth, the person who stands at the heart of the Christian tradition. It is celebrated in many unique ways across the U.S. and the world, most commonly by the joyous giving of gifts. Learn more about Christmas.

Wednesday, December 25 - Chanukah

Chanukah, an 8-day Festival of Lights, is a Jewish holiday commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple and the miracle of a small quantity of oil that lit the Temple’s menorah for 8 days. This year, Chanukah begins at sundown on Wednesday, December 25. See the complete school year calendar.

Keep in Touch

Visit the Belvedere website

Report student absences

Bus Delay Website

Follow Belvedere on X

Change your email preferences

FCPS Calendar

6540 Columbia Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041 | Office: 703-916-6800
Attendance: 703-916-6868 | Web | Twitter

Letter from Administration

 

December 10, 2024

Dear Belvedere Family:

We have recently found a racist slur written in a stall in the boys’ bathroom across from the library. 

We want to be clear that FCPS does not tolerate this kind of behavior in our schools. It is unacceptable that any student at Belvedere feels that this is appropriate behavior. This is not the kind of school community we seek to cultivate. We have made a commitment in FCPS that any time these situations arise, we will share them with our school community to send a clear message that we denounce these actions. 

Every student in FCPS has the right to feel safe and affirmed in our schools. Words matter, no matter the context, no matter the situation. In partnership with the Chief Equity Office, we will continue to work within our school community to have dialogues about dignity, humanization and belonging. I ask you to engage in these same conversations at home. 

Below are two resources that can also help guide your conversations at home: 

• How to Talk to Your Children About Hate Speech 
• Talking to your child about slurs: When words hurt

Our students can make a difference in this world by learning to embrace and value our differences instead of using them to divide us.

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to a member of the Belvedere administrative team directly. We would like to hear your ideas about making Belvedere a more welcoming and culturally responsive environment for all.

Sincerely,

Cecilia Vanderhye, Principal

Kelly Cabezas, Assistant Principal

Tara Boone, Assistant Principal

6540 Columbia Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041 | Office: 703-916-6800
Attendance: 703-916-6868 | Web | Twitter

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

From the School Administration

Dear Belvedere Families,

What a week it has been!

This week, the PTA hosted their monthly meeting, and we were thrilled to hear that they raised over $20,000 from the Read-a-Thon. Thank you so much to everyone who participated and supported this effort!

On Thursday, the Preschool team hosted a Family Feast. It was heartwarming to see families come together, share delicious food, and enjoy quality time as a community.

As we approach winter break, just two weeks away, we want to remind everyone to send children to school prepared for the colder weather. Coats and outerwear are essential. If your child needs a coat, please reach out to us—we are here to help ensure every student is warm and ready for the season.

Lastly, attendance is vital, especially in the weeks leading up to a long break. Every day counts toward their learning and growth.

We hope you have a safe and wonderful weekend!

Warm regards,

Cecilia Vanderhye, Principal

Tara Boone, Assistant Principal

Kelly Cabezas, Assistant Principal 

🍎 Make Every Day Count! The Importance of Attendance

As you plan upcoming trips and other family events, please remember the importance of sending your child to school every day. Review the FCPS School Year Calendar and try to plan any time away during breaks from school. 

Children who show up for school regularly develop fundamental reading and math skills while building a habit of good attendance that will carry them into college and careers. Research shows that children who were chronically absent (missing 18 days or more) in kindergarten and first grade were far less likely to read proficiently at the end of third grade.

Learn how families can help form good attendance habits.

 

🤒 When a Student Should Stay Home From School

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

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

If your child has a chronic illness, make sure to notify their teacher so that assistance can be provided if needed. Keep an open line of communication with your school's public health staff.

Read about how families can help form good attendance habits. Attend today, achieve tomorrow!

Join us for our upcoming monthly Parent Coffee on December 13! Reminder:  Window for Full-Time AAP Referrals Closes on December 15, 2024

Parents/guardians of students in Grades 2-7 who would like their student to be considered for Full-Time advanced academic programs may submit the AAP Full-Time Referral Form to Jaclyn Walsh at [email protected] 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 Jaclyn Walsh at [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.

⏰ Update on Potential Changes to Middle School Start Times

At Tuesday’s School Board work session, staff from Prismatic Services, Inc., presented options for adjusting start times at FCPS middle schools. As a reminder, Prismatic is charged with developing an action plan to help the School Board reach its goal of starting middle school at or after 8 a.m.

The presentation includes five options for adjusting middle school start times based on the consultant’s analysis from community forums, surveys, and interviews with staff, parents, associations, and other groups. The School Board will provide next steps to the superintendent.

Watch a video of the work session. Visit the Middle School Start Times webpage for more information on the project.

🍲 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.

Free Birthday Cakes for Youth

Cake4Kids is a nonprofit that delivers free, custom homemade or any other celebratory sweets to at-risk and underserved youth in the Northern Virginia area.

• Link: Cake4Kids Website

Contact Mrs. Plazas 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, schools will provide paper forms starting Wednesday, November 13. Paper forms should be returned by Tuesday, December 10.

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:

• 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.

  A Chance to Win a Timeless Handbag (And Support PTA)  

Looking for the ultimate holiday gift or a little luxury for yourself? Support Belvedere PTA and enter for a chance to win a stunning Louis Vuitton Neverfull MM handbag!  This timeless piece is perfect for making someone’s season extra special or treating yourself to a well-deserved indulgence.

Tickets: $10/each, 3 for $20 or 8 for $50

⏳ Sales End: December 18, 2024, at 5:59 PM

📅 Drawing Date: December 18, 2024, at 6:00 PM

Where to Buy Tickets: Online. If you want to pay with cash or a check,  click "Contact Organizer," or reach out to any of the PTA Board Members, and we'll take care of you. 

This holiday season, give the gift of luxury while giving back to your community. This would also be a great gift for your child’s teacher as an end-of-year thank you! All proceeds benefit Belvedere PTA initiatives, including classroom support for teachers and upcoming community events like the Fun Run and Family Culture Night. 

The holidays are right around the corner! Purchase yours today and make this a season to remember.

Questions? Contact us at [email protected].

We did it! Read-a-Thon Beats its Big Goal

The PTA’s annual Read-a-Thon exceeded its target of $20,000 thanks to your support! And great news: the entire school earned a day of extra recess. We are so appreciative of everyone's participation and contributions – and incredible commitment to reading. The money we have raised will be instrumental in providing field trip opportunities, fulfilling teacher grant requests and developing more events to connect our school community. Congratulations to all our Bulldogs – and keep reading!

Grab your sneaks! BES Fun Run is Dec. 14

Bring your Belvedere Bulldogs to the return of the Fun Run. We will gather at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 14 at the school to do some stretching, running and hot chocolate drinking! We are looking for volunteers to help donate and/or serve hot chocolate, hand out lap counters, guide the runners and clean-up.  Sign up here. The PTA will also be selling wrapping paper, hand bag raffle tickets and spirit wear and we will also be collecting gift cards for BES community members in need this holiday season.

Volunteer Opportunities: A Few Hours Can Help 

We are looking for volunteers to help with leading these upcoming activities. Dont want to go it alone? Any of these volunteer needs can be shared.

Restaurant Night Coordinator: Connect with local restaurants and food trucks to create Restaurant Nights for the BES community every other month. Time commitment: 2-3 hours every other month until June 2025.

VIP & Me: Volunteer to set up continental breakfast and help plan two morning family-student events on Jan. 22 + 23. Time commitment: Less than 4 hours total, including event time (before school).

Movie Night Coordinator: Work with PTA leaders to coordinate our next Movie Night in late February. Time commitment: Less than 6 hours total, including day-of Movie Night needs.

School Directory Coordinator: Explore this opportunity to create a much-requested school resource. Time commitment: A few hours a month during the school year. Interested in any of these opportunities or other PTA volunteer needs? Send a note to [email protected].

Free and Reduced-Price Meals (FRM)

Learn more about the criteria and process to apply for free or reduced-price breakfast and lunch.

If you need assistance with the Free and Reduced-Meal application, please visit Belvedere's Family Liaison, Mrs. Plazas in the Parent Center or you may call her office at (703) 916-6824

FCPS CARES Program

The FCPS CARES Program allows parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees who go above and beyond to help others and show they care about their students, colleagues, and the community. We invite you to submit a story below to acknowledge the great work of an FCPS employee or group of employees who should receive FCPS CARES recognition. 

Please take note of the following before submitting an FCPS CARES:

• A notification email, with the submission text included, will be sent to the recipient(s) and copied to the recipient's supervisor(s). 
• All submissions will be posted to our FCPS CARES webpage and shared via other FCPS news outlets.
• Submissions containing personal or sensitive information may be edited to protect individuals' privacy.
• Feel free to compose your submission using a text editor such as Microsoft Word, and then paste it into the text box provided.

For questions, please email [email protected].

Read more and Submit an FCPS CARES today!

Belvedere is on Instagram

Welcome back, Belvedere families! 🎉 New school year, new Instagram account! 📸 We’re thrilled to share all the incredible moments ahead. Stay tuned and follow along!

https://www.instagram.com/belvedereelem/

Upcoming Dates

Friday, December 8 - Bodhi Day

Bodhi Day, Friday, December 8, is the Buddhist holiday that commemorates the day that the historical Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama (Shakyamuni), experienced enlightenment, also known as bodhi in Sanskrit and Pali.

Winter Break (Student Holiday)

As a reminder, winter break will be held Monday, December 23, to Friday, January 3. To help make sure you and your children have a restful break, we have asked that no homework be assigned during this time. Teachers may assign long-range assignments in the weeks ahead of the break, allowing students to practice time management skills, but no assignments will be due immediately following the break. We look forward to welcoming students back in the new year.

Classes resume on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. See the complete school year calendar.

Wednesday, December 25 - Christmas

🎄 A very Merry Christmas to those in our community who celebrate! Christmas is an annual holiday that commemorates the birth of Jesus of Nazareth, the person who stands at the heart of the Christian tradition. It is celebrated in many unique ways across the U.S. and the world, most commonly by the joyous giving of gifts. Learn more about Christmas.

Wednesday, December 25 - Chanukah

Chanukah, an 8-day Festival of Lights, is a Jewish holiday commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple and the miracle of a small quantity of oil that lit the Temple’s menorah for 8 days. This year, Chanukah begins at sundown on Wednesday, December 25. See the complete school year calendar.

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6540 Columbia Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041 | Office: 703-916-6800
Attendance: 703-916-6868 | Web | Twitter

December PTA Meeting Tonight Online and at BES

The December community meeting is tonight, Dec. 4, starting at 6:30 pm. Meetings last about an hour and are offered in a hybrid format – both online and in person in the Belvedere cafeteria. Spanish translation is available as part of the virtual format, so please join us via Zoom if you require Spanish support.

Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89864013544?pwd=nHikx1cH4b2DRYRPadM47OmBcqZHKc.1

Meeting ID: 898 6401 3544 Passcode: 460595

You can also follow the live stream at https://www.facebook.com/belvedere.pta Children are welcome to join in person at Belvedere, and there will be space for them in the cafeteria to snack, play games, use electronics, read and/or color.

All staff and BES families are welcome to join these meetings and we provide time to discuss your questions and ideas. You must be a PTA member to vote on any financial decisions made during meetings

6540 Columbia Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041 | Office: 703-916-6800
Attendance: 703-916-6868 | Web | Twitter