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Principals' Update

Dear Freedom Hill Families,

We loved having everyone back in the building for a full week after our extended Winter Break. We spent time recommitting to our expectations within the classrooms and across the building, and we were able to get back into a lot of great learning. With the first semester ending in just a few days, students are current involved with taking assessments to demonstrate their learning. We can't wait to share some of our progress!

This week, we ask that you mark your calendars! We will be celebrating our school community's 75th anniversary on May 17th. All current and alumni families and staff are welcome to attend the festivities from 11-2 at the school. More information will be forthcoming on all of our great events - but expect activities, school tours for alumni, food sales, and other great fun organized by our school, our Student Council, and our PTA. It promises to be a great occasion. 

This week, we are expecting frigid temperatures. Please keep your child safe by dressing them in layers that they can wear for arrival and dismissal times when they are outside. 

Lastly, our PTA is recruiting parents to carry on many of our traditional events and offerings that benefit our entire community. Please see the PTA section at the bottom. Even taking on a small event or initiative has a meaningful impact!

 

In partnership,

Nicholas Zapadka, Principal

Tim Scesney, Assistant Principal

Holly Sims, Assistant Principal

Upcoming Dates for Your Calendar

2024-25 FCPS School Calendar

FCPS Lunch Menu

Freedom Hill Family Resources

• January 20 – Martin Luther King, Jr. Day – School Closed
• January 22 - Virtual Rising 7th Grade Information Session, 5PM, Use Kilmer MS website
• January 23 - Rising 7th Grade Curriculum Open House @ Kilmer MS
• January 28 – End of 2nd Quarter
• January 29 – Teacher Work Day – Lunar New Year - School Closed

 

 

 

This week, we are focusing on Perseverance. You complete what you start despite obstacles. You never give up.

 

"It’s hard to beat a person who never gives up.”

                                                          ~Babe Ruth

 

Questions you might enjoy talking about:

• What is involved in perseverance?
• How is perseverance related to teamwork? Creativity? Optimism?
• How can a growth-mindset help as you think about perseverance?

  FCPS Boundary Study

The Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee held its second meeting on December 16. View key takeaways from that meeting and access the meeting agenda, slides, and other materials that committee members received.  If you did not attend an in-person Community Boundary Review Meeting, consider participating in one of the following virtual meetings:

• 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. 

Virtual meetings will follow the same format as in-person meetings that were recently held and the same information will be shared. 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.

Head Lice Awareness

Please be aware that our area has experienced a number of head lice cases this fall.  We understand that dealing with head lice can be challenging and stressful for families, and we want to work together to prevent the spread. Throughout the winter season, please remind your child not to share hats and coats with friends, or touch heads with others, as this is the way most lice is transmitted.

We kindly ask all parents to remain vigilant by regularly checking their child's hair for any signs of head lice. For more information, visit Lice Treatment and Prevention | Fairfax County Public Schools (fcps.edu) Early detection and treatment are key to preventing the spread of lice in our classrooms and beyond.

Math and Reading support through Belong's After-School Mentoring Program

Belong offers a free academic and social-emotional mentoring program for elementary students. Sessions are held at Marshall High School on Tuesdays from 6:30–7:30 PM. Your child will meet weekly with the same volunteer mentor to work on math and reading (and English as needed) and play games, providing personalized one-on-one support. Limited spaces are available for 5–6 children. Families commit to coming weekly through end of May.

For more information, call 703-485-6705. We hope to have new students begin no later than January 28.

Hablamos español.

Chinese New Year Festival

The Asian Community Service Center sincerely invites all Freedom Hill families to join their 16th Annal Chinese New Year Festival on Jan. 25 from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Luther Jackson Middle School, 3020 Gallows Road, Falls Church, Virginia.

China's 5,000 year history leaves us some of the most amazing stories and wisdom to learn from. Chinese culture is full of inner meaning. Through stories and presentations designed for school-age children and their parents, as well as teachers and school administrators, participants will get a feel for the true essence of Chinese culture. Group reservations are appreciated, although we will try our best to accommodate everyone on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Schedule: Performances: 1:15-2:00 p.m., 3:45-4:30 p.m. Dragon Parade: 2:45 p.m. Educational Tours: 11:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m.

All activities are free, but children may wish to purchase their favorite Asian dish (all affordably priced) or buy a beautiful Chinese craft. Chinese or Asian dress is encouraged during the event.

📵 Phones Down, Engagement Up

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 office at 703-506-7800.

FCPS Cares: Recognize Our Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

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

📑 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. 

Hill Happenings PTA Updates

HELP NEEDED FOR PTA ACTIVITIES

Did you resolve to get involved in 2025?  Do you have a New Year's resolution to volunteer your time? Build relationships within the FHES community?  The PTA needs volunteers like YOU to help with activities and events for the remainder of the school year, including:

• Staff volleyball game vs. Westgate ES (Friday, April 25th)
• Before and after school activities (3 sessions - winter, spring, fall)
• Field Day (Friday, June 6th)
• Marquee sign outside FHES (ongoing)

Check out this google form for more details and if you are interested, or have questions, please indicate "Yes" in the survey and we will reach out to you. Thank you for those that have already expressed interest.

 

**NEW DATES** BEE PREPARED FOR THE SPELLING BEE

We are postponing the FHES spelling bee.  Our new date for the school-wide bee is Thursday, February 27th. Prior to this date, students in grades 1 through 6 will have the option to participate in a grade-level spelling bee. These will culminate with the top grade-level finishers participating in the school-wide Bee on Thursday, February 27th in the FHES cafeteria beginning at 6PM.

Spelling lists have been distributed to homeroom teachers. Interested families can download the Scripps Spelling Bee app for more practice.

 

VALENTINE’S DAY CANDYGRAMS ARE BACK

Candygrams for Valentine's Day are back! Order forms will be sent home soon, and posted on the PTA website, with options to purchase lollipops or rainbow pencils (a non-candy alternative) for 50¢ each. Sixth grade volunteers will be selling from February 4th through 13th.  A big thanks for all the support for the winter candygrams - over 1,500 candygrams sold including 300 winter stamps and 40+ student volunteer hours logged which raised $650 toward the 6th grade celebration!

 

NEXT PTA MEETING - FEBRUARY 6th - VIRTUAL

Save the date for our next virtual PTA meeting on Thursday, February 6th at 7:30PM.  If there are specific topics you’d like to hear about, or staff members you’d like to hear from, please submit your ideas to [email protected].            

1945 Lord Fairfax Rd, Vienna, VA 22182 | Main Phone: 703.506.7800
Attendance: 703.506.7878 | Website | Twitter

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

English | Español | አማርኛ | English | English | English | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Principals' Update

Dear Freedom Hill Families,

It was wonderful to see our students back in the building on Friday after our extended winter break. We hope everyone had a chance to enjoy some snowy fun and relaxation during the time off. This week, our staff and students will be "full speed ahead" as we continue our theme of Shining Bright this year. 

At the beginning of the calendar year, we like to share updates and reminders that will help us to support our students' success. Please remember that all students need to be in the building by 9:20 each morning, and that a parent will need to sign them in at the office if they are late. Regular school attendance leads to success! There are additional updates below with reminders about cell phones, FCPS tutoring, lice prevention, and (you're invited) ST Math Week. 

Though we weren't able to get everyone Wednesday folder items last week, don't forget that the PTA has coordinated our next Family Dinner Out this Tuesday at the Falls Church Noodles & Company. Come grab a great dinner while supporting our school!

 

In partnership,

Nicholas Zapadka, Principal

Tim Scesney, Assistant Principal

Holly Sims, Assistant Principal

Upcoming Dates for Your Calendar

2024-25 FCPS School Calendar

FCPS Lunch Menu

Freedom Hill Family Resources

• January 13 - 17 - FCPS Math Week
• January 14 - PTA Family Dinner Out - Noodles & Co. Falls Church
• January 16 – 31 – Spelling Bee Classroom Bees
• January 20 – Martin Luther King, Jr. Day – School Closed
• January 28 – End of 2nd Quarter
• January 29 – Teacher Work Day – Lunar New Year - School Closed

 

 

This week, we are focusing on Prudence. You plan for the future and achieve your goals by making careful everyday choices.

 

"When you make the right decision, it doesn’t really matter what anyone else thinks.”

                                                          ~Caroline Kennedy

Questions you might enjoy talking about:

• What does making good decisions have to do with prudence?
• Is it hard to make decisions in certain situations? If yes, which situations?

Do you find it becoming harder or easier to make good decisions as you get older?

Math Week

Join us this week for a full week of family time with free stories, games, and math activities in English and Spanish for families with students in K-6. Check it out HERE: https://www.mindresearch.org/fcps-math-week 

FCPS Boundary Study

The Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee held its second meeting on December 16. View key takeaways from that meeting and access the meeting agenda, slides, and other materials that committee members received.  If you did not attend an in-person Community Boundary Review Meeting, consider participating in one of the following virtual meetings:

• 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. 

Virtual meetings will follow the same format as in-person meetings that were recently held and the same information will be shared. 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.

Head Lice Awareness

Please be aware that our area has experienced a number of head lice cases this fall.  We understand that dealing with head lice can be challenging and stressful for families, and we want to work together to prevent the spread. Throughout the winter season, please remind your child not to share hats and coats with friends, or touch heads with others, as this is the way most lice is transmitted.

We kindly ask all parents to remain vigilant by regularly checking their child's hair for any signs of head lice. For more information, visit Lice Treatment and Prevention | Fairfax County Public Schools (fcps.edu) Early detection and treatment are key to preventing the spread of lice in our classrooms and beyond.

📵 Phones Down, Engagement Up

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 office at 703-506-7800.

FCPS Cares: Recognize Our Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

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

📑 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. 

PTA Updates

SAVE THE DATE - DINE OUT AT NOODLES & CO.

Plan to join other FHES families at our next Family Dinner Out on Tuesday, January 14th from 4-8PM at Noodles & Co. located at 7511 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church.  Eat in or take out.  Simply mention FHES in-person or use code GIVING25 for online orders.

 

RESOLVE TO GET INVOLVED IN 2025

Do you have a New Year's resolution to volunteer your time? Build relationships within the FHES community?  The PTA needs volunteers like YOU to help with activities and events for the remainder of the school year, including:

• Staff volleyball game vs. Westgate ES (Friday, April 25th)
• Before and after school activities (3 sessions - winter, spring, fall)
• Field Day (Friday, June 6th)
• Marquee sign outside FHES (ongoing)

Check out this google form for more details and if you are interested, or have questions, please indicate "Yes" in the survey and we will reach out to you.

 

NEXT PTA MEETING - FEBRUARY 6th - VIRTUAL

Save the date for our next virtual PTA meeting on Thursday, February 6th at 7:30PM.  If there are specific topics you’d like to hear about, or staff members you’d like to hear from, please submit your ideas to [email protected].            

 

BEE PREPARED FOR THE SPELLING BEE

Between January 16th and 31st, students in grades 1 through 6 will have the option to participate in a grade-level spelling bee. These will culminate with the top grade-level finishers participating in the school-wide Bee on Thursday, February 13th in the FHES cafeteria beginning at 6PM.

Interested families can download the Scripps Spelling Bee app. Spelling lists and a flyer came home in students’ folders before the winter break.

1945 Lord Fairfax Rd, Vienna, VA 22182 | Main Phone: 703.506.7800
Attendance: 703.506.7878 | Website | Twitter

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

English | Español | አማርኛ | English | English | English | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Principals' Update

Dear Freedom Hill Families,

Welcome back for a new year! We hope everyone had a wonderful holiday break. We are "back to work" with lots of fun and learning this week. We look forward to seeing all of our Eagles back at school! We expect winter weather to affect our schedule this week - and school will be closed tomorrow (Monday). Please monitor FCPS social media or the FCPS website for additional updates. Have fun in the snow!

As a new calendar year begins, we want to say a big thank you to all who made our holiday season so successful. We had many parent volunteers, staff members, room parents, PTA members, and more who volunteered, organized, and supported our staff and students through a variety of events. Thank you so much for your enthusiasm and time!

And speaking of success and partnership, please see the PTA section below for some additional 2025 updates:

• Before/after school program registration closes tonight
• "Resolve to Get Involved" in 2025
• Upcoming Family Dinner Out

Wishing you a very Happy New Year and start to 2025. 

 

Nicholas Zapadka, Principal

Tim Scesney, Assistant Principal

Holly Sims, Assistant Principal

Upcoming Dates for Your Calendar

2024-25 FCPS School Calendar

FCPS Lunch Menu

Freedom Hill Family Resources

• January 5 - Registration closes for PTA Winter Activities
• January 6 - School Re-Opens for 2025
• January 6 - Religious/Cultural Observance - Three Kings Day
• January 7 - Religious/Cultural Observance - Orthodox Christmas
• January 13 - 17 - FCPS Math Week
• January 14 - PTA Family Dinner Out - Noodles & Co. Falls Church

 

 

This week, we are focusing on Optimism. You expect the best from the future and work to achieve it.

“When the world says, ‘Give Up’, hope whispers, ‘Try it one more time’.”

 ~Author Unknown

Questions you might enjoy talking about:

• When were you optimistic in a situation? How could that situation have turned out differently if you weren’t optimistic?
• Do you believe that hope and optimism are “contagious”?

What is your dream for your future self?  What will you have to do to achieve that goal?

Coming Soon: FCPS Math Week

Mark your calendars for January 13-17 for a full week of family time with free stories, games, and math activities in English and Spanish for families with students in K-6. Check it out HERE: https://www.mindresearch.org/fcps-math-week 

Makeup Picture Day Photos Now Viewable!

Makeup/Retake Day images are now viewable online. Please visit: vosphoto.com/uc and use your student's ID when prompted for the online code.

For questions regarding school pictures please email: [email protected]

Thank you!

Victor O'Neill Studio

FCPS Boundary Study

The Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee held its second meeting on December 16. View key takeaways from that meeting and access the meeting agenda, slides, and other materials that committee members received.  If you did not attend an in-person Community Boundary Review Meeting, consider participating in one of the following virtual meetings:

• 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. 

Virtual meetings will follow the same format as in-person meetings that were recently held and the same information will be shared. 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.

❄️ Preparing for Winter Weather

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

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

Be sure to plan for the winter season. Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE, bookmark the FCPS website, and arrange for childcare if needed.

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

⛄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.

FCPS Cares: Recognize Our Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

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

PTA Updates

SAVE THE DATE - DINE OUT AT NOODLES & CO.

Plan to join other FHES families at our next Family Dinner Out on Tuesday, January 14th from 4-8PM at Noodles & Co. located at 7511 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church.  Eat in or take out.  Simply mention FHES in-person or use code GIVING25 for online orders.

 

*** LAST CHANCE - REGISTRATION ENDS TONIGHT! ***

This is your last chance to sign your student up for a winter activity!  Registration  is open here and closes at midnight tonight. Before school classes run 8:10-9:10AM;  after school classes run from 4:15-5:15PM.

Monday morning: PE Club (instructed by Mr. Dowling!) for grades 3rd-6th

Monday morning: Crochet Club (instructed by Ms. Canape!) for grades 2nd-6th

Tuesday morning: Science Make it or Break it – for grades K-5th

Wednesday afternoon: Tumbling – for grades K-4th

Thursday morning: Nothing But Net Basketball – for grades K-6th

Friday morning: Chess – for grades K-6th

If minimum enrollment isn’t met, you will be contacted for alternatives.

 

RESOLVE TO GET INVOLVED IN 2025

Do you have a New Year's resolution to volunteer your time? Build relationships within the FHES community?  The PTA needs volunteers like YOU to help with activities and events for the remainder of the school year, including:

• Staff volleyball game vs. Westgate ES (Friday, April 25th)
• Before and after school activities (3 sessions - winter, spring, fall)
• Field Day (Friday, June 6th)
• Marquee sign outside FHES (ongoing)

Check out this google form for more details and if you are interested, or have questions, please indicate "Yes" in the survey and we will reach out to you.

1945 Lord Fairfax Rd, Vienna, VA 22182 | Main Phone: 703.506.7800
Attendance: 703.506.7878 | Website | Twitter

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

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Principals' Update

Dear Freedom Hill Families,

With the official start of winter on the horizon, we want to take a moment to acknowledge the hard work and dedication our students continue to show. We would also like to express our gratitude to our amazing staff, whose dedication and creativity make learning fun and engaging for our students every day. Winter break is right around the corner, and we are excited to finish 2024 on a high note!

There is a good deal of fun packed into our school calendar this week. Please check our Spirit Week schedule below - we'd love to have your child's participation.

As your holidays begin, don't forget that there is information below from our wonderful PTA - who are also celebrating our teachers this week with an appreciation lunch!:

• Candygrams on sale this week
• Sign-up begins for winter before/after school activities
• The holidays are a great time to prep for the Spelling Bee!

The Weekly Update will be paused during the holiday season, and will resume in January. From all of us at Freedom Hill, we wish you and your family Happy Holidays! Thank you for another year filled with support for our wonderful students.

 

Nicholas Zapadka, Principal

Tim Scesney, Assistant Principal

Holly Sims, Assistant Principal

Upcoming Dates for Your Calendar

2024-25 FCPS School Calendar

FCPS Lunch Menu

Freedom Hill Family Resources

• December 16 - 20 - SCA Holiday Spirit Week
• December 16 - 19 - PTA Holiday Candygram Sales
• December 16 - Band/Strings Holiday Concert, 6PM
• December 21 - January 5 - Winter Break (School Closed)
• January 5 - Registration closes for PTA Winter Activities

 

 

This week, we are focusing on Self-Control. You have the ability to control your emotions and behaviors. You think before you act.

“By constant self-discipline and self-control, you can develop greatness of character.”

                    ~Grenville Kleise

Questions you might enjoy talking about:

• Do you consider yourself to be a person who has self-control? What things do you do that indicate this?
• Why is self-regulation important?
• What happens when your emotions take over? How can you work on developing greater self-control?

Makeup Picture Day Photos Now Viewable!

Makeup/Retake Day images are now viewable online. Please visit: vosphoto.com/uc and use your student's ID when prompted for the online code.

For questions regarding school pictures please email: [email protected]

Thank you!

Victor O'Neill Studio

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener Results Now Available

Students in grades 3-12 took the SEL Screener during the month of October providing information on their SEL skills like achieving goals, understanding and managing emotions, establishing and maintaining relationships, and making responsible decisions. The screener also asks students how well their school community makes them feel valued, included, and supported.

Individual student SEL Screener results are now available to families in the Documents section of SIS ParentVUE. For families who do not have an active ParentVUE account, results will be sent via postal mail.

For support in understanding your individual student’s results or for ideas on how to support them at home, please review the Family Guide or reach out to our school staff with any questions.

⏰ 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.

❄️ Preparing for Winter Weather

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

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

Be sure to plan for the winter season. Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE, bookmark the FCPS website, and arrange for childcare if needed.

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

⛄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.

FCPS Cares: Recognize Our Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

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

PTA Updates

CANDYGRAMS!

This is the last week (sales end Thursday!) to purchase candygrams for delivery to your student’s classmates, teachers or staff members. You can purchase in one of 3 ways:

• Purchase outside the main entrance in the morning from 8:30-9:10AM,
• Return a completed order form and payment to your student’s classroom teacher, OR
• Make a purchase for your student’s entire class using this Google form

Each candygram is only 50 cents and you can choose a candycane or a winter stamp (VERY limited quantity of stamps left) to accompany your note. Your student can fill out the individual notes or let the 6th graders fill them out for you.

Thank you for supporting the 6th grade class in this annual tradition.

 

WINTER BEFORE OR AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

Is your student looking to try something new and fun this winter?  Registration is open here for winter activities offered at school through Baroody Camps from January 10th through March 13th. Before school classes run 8:10-9:10AM; after school classes run from 4:15-5:15PM.

 

Classes include:

Monday morning: PE Club (instructed by Mr. Dowling!) for grades 3rd-6th

Monday morning: Crochet Club (instructed by Ms. Canape!) for grades 2nd-6th

Tuesday morning: Science Make it or Break it – for grades K-5th

Wednesday afternoon: Tumbling – for grades K-4th

Thursday morning: Nothing But Net Basketball – for grades K-6th

Friday morning: Chess – for grades K-6th

 

Feeling overwhelmed with the holidays/school break and can’t decide just yet? Don’t worry, registration will stay open until January 5th.

 

SPELLING BEE – SAVE THE DATE

Have you heard the buzz about the school spelling bee?  Between January 16th and 31st, students in grades 1 through 6 will have the option to participate in a grade-level spelling bee. These will culminate with the top grade-level finishers participating in the school-wide Bee on Thursday, February 13th in the FHES cafeteria beginning at 6PM.

Interested families can download the Scripps Spelling Bee app. Spelling lists and a flyer with more information will come home in students’ folders.

1945 Lord Fairfax Rd, Vienna, VA 22182 | Main Phone: 703.506.7800
Attendance: 703.506.7878 | Website | Twitter

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

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Principals' Update

Dear Freedom Hill Families,

We hope your week was a great one! Despite the chilly temperatures, we had fun this week with some special events. We celebrated our 3rd Golden Plate Awards (congratulations Ms. Lauture's class!), learned about government topics during our 6th grade share fair, and our chorus had an opportunity to sing some holiday hits at Wolftrap! 

As we begin another week, don't forget:

• Monday is an early release at 1:05. Changes to dismissal can only be made at this point if it is an absolute emergency.  

• Our PTA is supporting Candygrams (beginning Tuesday) and a Family Dinner Out (Thursday) this week. We'd love to have you participate. 

Lastly, the health of our Eagles is important as the weather becomes colder! We have seen an uptick in illnesses. Please make sure to help us by practicing consistent hand washing and keeping children home following the FCPS Guidelines. We strive to ensure our students are getting out to recess daily unless there is precipitation. Please continue to send students with layers so that they can enjoy their time outside. 

Have a great week,

 

Nicholas Zapadka, Principal

Tim Scesney, Assistant Principal

Holly Sims, Assistant Principal

Upcoming Dates for Your Calendar

2024-25 FCPS School Calendar

FCPS Lunch Menu

Freedom Hill Family Resources

• December 9 - Early Release Monday (Dismissal at 1:05)
• December 10 - 19 - PTA Holiday Candygram Sales
• December 12 - PTA Family Dinner Out - Mod Pizza / Ben & Jerry's
• December 16 - Band/Strings Holiday Concert, 6PM
• December 23 - January 3 - Winter Break (School Closed)

 

 

This week, we are working on ONE of the FIVE overarching components of the Positivity Project. Supporting others when they struggle is an important test of our character every single day.

 

“We rise by lifting others.”

                    ~Robert Ingersoll

 

When you put others first, you look to comfort people in the small, day-to-day disappointments, whether they are friends, classmates, acquaintances, family, and even rivals.

Think of a time you went through something difficult and someone encouraged you. How can you pass on that act of kindness this week? 

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener Results Now Available

Students in grades 3-12 took the SEL Screener during the month of October providing information on their SEL skills like achieving goals, understanding and managing emotions, establishing and maintaining relationships, and making responsible decisions. The screener also asks students how well their school community makes them feel valued, included, and supported.

Individual student SEL Screener results are now available to families in the Documents section of SIS ParentVUE. For families who do not have an active ParentVUE account, results will be sent via postal mail.

For support in understanding your individual student’s results or for ideas on how to support them at home, please review the Family Guide or reach out to our school staff with any questions.

⏰ 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.

❄️ Preparing for Winter Weather

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

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

Be sure to plan for the winter season. Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE, bookmark the FCPS website, and arrange for childcare if needed.

📝Protecting Kids Against Digital Exploitation Webinar

Webinar - Protecting Kids Against Digital Exploitation: Keeping Kids Safe Online December 13, 2024, from 10-11:30 a.m. Register Here

Join us for this important webinar presented jointly by Fairfax County Schools, the Fairfax County Police Department, the Department of Justice, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

Webinar Highlights:

• What is Sextortion?
• What are FCPS and FCPD seeing in relation to sextortion?
• How can families help prevent their kids from becoming victims?
• How should families respond if their child was victimized?

AAP Full-Time Information Meeting Resources

If you missed our meeting, you can find resources below:

• Slides - English/ Spanish
• YouTube Presentation

Please reach out to Mrs. Fredericks for more information. She is excited to support your family with the application process! 

FCPS Cares: Recognize Our Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

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

⏰ Limited Early Release Mondays for Elementary Schools

The remaining scheduled dates for 1:05 early releases for FHES are:

• September 23
• October 28
• December 9 
• February 24
• March 17
• April 28
• May 19

Hill Happenings PTA Updates

DINE OUT AT MOD PIZZA and BEN & JERRY’S

Plan to join other FHES folks at our next Family Dinner (and Dessert) Out on Thursday, December 12th. Stop by MOD Pizza (168 Maple Ave West) from 10:30AM-10PM and Ben & Jerry’s (136C Maple Ave West) from 4-9PM. Eat in or take out. Simply mention FHES or use code MODGIVES25 for online orders.

 

TRY A BEFORE OR AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITY THIS WINTER

Registration opens here this Wednesday, December 4th at 9AM for your student to try an exciting class offered through Baroody Camps this fall. Before school classes run 8:10-9:10AM; after school classes run from 4:15-5:15PM. Look for a flyer to come home in your student’s folder.

 

HOLIDAY CANDYGRAMS ARE BACK!

Are you looking for an easy, sweet way to send a small token of thanks, friendship or merriment to a classmate, teacher or member of the FHES staff? Look no further - the 6th grade class is continuing the annual tradition of selling candygrams! From this Tuesday December 10th - December 19th, the 6th grade class will sell candygrams each morning from 8:30-9:10AM at the main entrance; deliveries to the classrooms will occur through December 20th. Each candy gram is 50 cents and you can choose either a candy cane or a winter-themed stamp* to accompany your completed note. Additional blank notes can be found here. To send candygrams to your entire class, you can use this Google form.

*Stamps available for purchase while supplies last.

 

SUPPORT THE STAFF/FACULTY APPRECIATION DECEMBER LUNCH

The PTA is appreciating the FHES staff and faculty with a delicious lunch on December 18th. Please consider supporting the appreciation event, and future appreciation events, by contributing here.

1945 Lord Fairfax Rd, Vienna, VA 22182 | Main Phone: 703.506.7800
Attendance: 703.506.7878 | Website | Twitter

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

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Principals' Update

Dear Freedom Hill Families,

We hope that all of our Eagle families had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday! We are back in action tomorrow for the final three weeks of the calendar year. Our students have been Shining Bright all year and we know we will finish strong! 

As we begin December, don't forget:

• Our Giving Tree Holiday Assistance Program is in full swing and we still have some families to adopt! Please see the information below. 
• This Thursday is Makeup Picture Day for students who were absent, new to our school, or would prefer to retake their original. Any parents who have not ordered can still pre-order retake photos using this link.
• In December, we will begin our planning for the FH 75th Anniversary Celebration that will take place in 2025. Please indicate your interest if you would like to be part of our planning committee - we won't be able to do it without you! 

Wishing you a great start to December! We look forward to seeing you at our virtual PTA meeting this Thursday evening. 

 

Nicholas Zapadka, Principal

Tim Scesney, Assistant Principal

Holly Sims, Assistant Principal

Upcoming Dates for Your Calendar

2024-25 FCPS School Calendar

FCPS Lunch Menu

Freedom Hill Family Resources

• December 5 - Makeup Picture Day
• December 5 - PTA Meeting, 7:30 (Virtual - Link)
• December 9 - Early Release Monday (Dismissal at 1:05)
• December 10 - 19 - PTA Holiday Candygram Sales
• December 12 - PTA Family Dinner Out - Mod Pizza / Ben & Jerry's
• December 16 - Band/Strings Holiday Concert, 6PM
• December 23 - January 3 - Winter Break (School Closed)

School Photos Now Online!

School Photos are now online!

Families should have received an E-proof via email.

Please remember to check your spam.

For any questions about your student's school pictures please contact: [email protected]

The team at Victor O’Neill Studios would like to thank Freedom Hill for a great picture day!

Early Dismissal Reminders

Our school is not able to accommodate early dismissals between 3:30-4:05. During this time, classrooms are wrapping up important learning, students are changing between specials classes, and the front office is busy supporting families. Attempting changes in the final minutes of the school day can create communication challenges and jeopardize student safety. We ask that all dismissal changes be communicated to the office/teacher by 2:00, and all early dismissals be completed by 3:30. We appreciate your partnership as we strive to support all of our families and ensure all students arrive home safely.

FHES Holiday Assistance Program

As we celebrate the season of giving this December, we would like to extend an opportunity to come together as a school community to make a lasting impact on the lives of those in need. This year, we invite you to participate in our Giving Tree Program by sponsoring a family. As a refresher, our Giving Tree Program is a holiday assistance program that we offer to families for aid with clothing and gifts.

You may sign up to sponsor a family in the SignUpGenius link below. You will also find the families’ information of clothing sizes, likes, notes, and instructions.

Visit our SignUpGenius link here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0B4DADAD2FA4F8C34-53122112-2024

If you would like to contribute but are unable to sponsor a family at this time, there is an opportunity to purchase individual items for families through our Amazon Wishlist found here: https://www.amazon.com/registries/gl/guest-view/25AS2BHGES59C

Let’s make this holiday season unforgettable for every member in our community. Your participation in the Giving Tree Program is a gift in itself.

Important notes

• Gifts must be wrapped, labeled, and dropped off at the Freedom Hill ES front office.
  • When labeling gifts, please use a Post-it or sticky note to label each gift with its contents, the family letter identifier, and age/gender of the child it is intended for. Please do not write this information on the wrapping paper.
• Items are due by December 16th, 2024 to the Freedom Hill ES Front Office
• To maintain the confidentiality of our students the SignUpGenius & Amazon Wishlist links and descriptions of the families are not permitted to be shared outside of the direct FHES community or on any social media platform.

Should you have any questions or concerns, please email the program coordinator, Emely Riera Pineros, at [email protected]

Attendance Update

Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!

Freedom Hill kicked off our Attendance celebrations on October 20th.  Since then, we celebrate classes when all students are present. If a student is sick, they need to stay home. When the stars align and everyone is present, then we get to celebrate.

The Attendance Team examined the school wide percentages for the last twenty days, see image below. The average percentage is 94.9% and evidenced by the trendline running horizontally. The days that have been more challenging for our school are Mondays and days following long weekends.

Yes, Mondays are tough - Have students place their shoes near the door. Go to bed early. Pack backpacks and lunches. Layout clothes. Students can help prepare to start the following day with success. If you’re feeling well, we look forward to seeing you at Freedom Hill tomorrow.

AAP Full-Time Information Meeting Resources

If you missed our meeting, you can find resources below:

• Slides - English/ Spanish
• YouTube Presentation

Please reach out to Mrs. Fredericks for more information. She is excited to support your family with the application process! 

FCPS Cares: Recognize Our Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

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

⏰ Limited Early Release Mondays for Elementary Schools

The remaining scheduled dates for 1:05 early releases for FHES are:

• December 9 
• February 24
• March 17
• April 28
• May 19

PTA Updates

DINE OUT AT MOD PIZZA and BEN & JERRY’S

Plan to join other FHES folks at our next Family Dinner (and Dessert) Out on Thursday, December 12th. Stop by MOD Pizza (168 Maple Ave West) from 10:30AM-10PM and Ben & Jerry’s (136C Maple Ave West) from 4-9PM. Eat in or take out. Simply mention FHES or use code MODGIVES25 for online orders.

 

TRY A BEFORE OR AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITY THIS WINTER

Registration opens here this Wednesday, December 4th at 9AM for your student to try an exciting class offered through Baroody Camps this fall. Before school classes run 8:10-9:10AM; after school classes run from 4:15-5:15PM. Look for a flyer to come home in your student’s folder.

 

HOLIDAY CANDYGRAMS ARE BACK!

Are you looking for an easy, sweet way to send a small token of thanks, friendship or merriment to a classmate, teacher or member of the FHES staff? Look no further - the 6th grade class is continuing the annual tradition of selling candygrams! From December 10th - December 19th, the 6th grade class will sell candygrams each morning from 8:30-9:10AM at the main entrance; the 6th graders will deliver the purchased candygrams to the classrooms from December 10th - December 20th. Each candy gram is 50 cents and you can choose either a candy cane or a winter-themed stamp* to accompany your completed note. A flyer with all the details will come home in your student’s folder this week.

*Stamps available for purchase while supplies last.

 

SUPPORT THE STAFF/FACULTY APPRECIATION DECEMBER LUNCH

The PTA is appreciating the FHES staff and faculty with a delicious lunch on December 18th. Please consider supporting the appreciation event, and future appreciation events, by contributing here.

 

JOIN US AT THE NEXT VIRTUAL PTA MEETING - DECEMBER 5th

We invite everyone—whether you're a parent, caregiver, teacher—to attend our next PTA meeting! This is a great opportunity to get involved, share your ideas, and help make a positive impact on our school. No matter your background or experience, your voice matters, and we welcome all perspectives. Come meet new people, learn about upcoming events, and be a part of shaping the future of our school community. We hope to see you online on Thursday, December 5th at 7:30PM. 

1945 Lord Fairfax Rd, Vienna, VA 22182 | Main Phone: 703.506.7800
Attendance: 703.506.7878 | Website | Twitter

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

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Principals' Update

Dear Freedom Hill Families,

What an eventful week! Our Thanksgiving Luncheon was a tremendous success, and it was truly wonderful to see so many of our families join us. We also loved seeing so many Eagles at Silver Diner supporting our 6th graders, who did a really fabulous job greeting the restaurant's customers and ensuring they had a great experience. Lastly, our Student Council met for the first time! A big thanks to Mrs. Turner for supporting our students this year - they have many great ideas for enhancing our school experience. 

As we start a new (short) week tomorrow, don't forget:

• Our Giving Tree Holiday Assistance Program is in full swing and we still have some families to adopt! Please see the information below. 
• As the weather grows chillier, don't forget to send your child to school with layers so that they can continue to enjoy the fresh air outside during recess. 
• In December, we will begin our planning for the FH 75th Anniversary Celebration that will take place in 2025. Please indicate your interest if you would like to be part of our planning committee - we won't be able to do it without you! 

Wishing you and your loved ones a wonderful Thanksgiving filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. 

With thankfulness and gratitude, 

 

Nicholas Zapadka, Principal

Tim Scesney, Assistant Principal

Holly Sims, Assistant Principal

Upcoming Dates for Your Calendar

2024-25 FCPS School Calendar

FCPS Lunch Menu

Freedom Hill Family Resources

• November 27 - 29 - Thanksgiving Vacation - School Closed
• December 5 - Makeup Picture Day
• December 5 - PTA Meeting, 7:30 (Virtual) 
• December 9 - Early Release Monday (Dismissal at 1:05)
• December 10 - 19 - PTA Holiday Candygram Sales
• December 16 - Band/Strings Holiday Concert, 6PM
• December 23 - January 3 - Winter Break (School Closed)

School Photos Now Online!

School Photos are now online!

Families should have received an E-proof via email.

Please remember to check your spam.

For any questions about your student's school pictures please contact: [email protected]

The team at Victor O’Neill Studios would like to thank Freedom Hill for a great picture day!

For the next two weeks, we are focusing on Gratitude. You are aware of and thankful for good things that happen.

“The real gift of gratitude is that the more grateful you are, the more present you become.”  

                    ~Robert Holden

 

Questions you might enjoy talking about:

• What are the easiest things to be grateful for? What are the most difficult?
• What are some benefits of gratitude?

How does it make you feel to think that others are grateful for you?

 

Early Dismissal Reminders

Our school is not able to accommodate early dismissals between 3:30-4:05. During this time, classrooms are wrapping up important learning, students are changing between specials classes, and the front office is busy supporting families. Attempting changes in the final minutes of the school day can create communication challenges and jeopardize student safety. We ask that all dismissal changes be communicated to the office/teacher by 2:00, and all early dismissals be completed by 3:30. We appreciate your partnership as we strive to support all of our families and ensure all students arrive home safely.

Yearly Impact Aid Form

Beginning Monday, October 21st, FCPS will be asking all families to fill out a Student-Parent Survey for Federal Impact Aid for each child. Submitting this form is important because information from this survey results in an additional $3 million in grants each year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

Help FCPS secure funding by helping us identify: 

• Military families.
• Federally connected families.
• Families living on a military base.

Please complete one form for each child in your household. Remember that only the enrolling parent can fill out the Impact Aid Survey form. 

For families without access to ParentVUE, a paper copy of the form will be sent home with your student starting November 12th. Your information will be kept strictly confidential.

To access the form, please login to SIS ParentVUE, select Online Packets in the top right hand corner, and then click the ‘Federal Impact Aid Survey’ button on the bottom of the page.

If you have multiple children in Fairfax County Public Schools, please make sure to fill out a form for each of your children. You will know you have completed all of the forms when you see a green check next to each of their names on the final screen.

We appreciate you completing the form by December 9th, 2024. 

FHES Holiday Assistance Program

As we celebrate the season of giving this December, we would like to extend an opportunity to come together as a school community to make a lasting impact on the lives of those in need. This year, we invite you to participate in our Giving Tree Program by sponsoring a family. As a refresher, our Giving Tree Program is a holiday assistance program that we offer to families for aid with clothing and gifts.

You may sign up to sponsor a family in the SignUpGenius link below. You will also find the families’ information of clothing sizes, likes, notes, and instructions.

Visit our SignUpGenius link here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0B4DADAD2FA4F8C34-53122112-2024

If you would like to contribute but are unable to sponsor a family at this time, there is an opportunity to purchase individual items for families through our Amazon Wishlist found here: https://www.amazon.com/registries/gl/guest-view/25AS2BHGES59C

Let’s make this holiday season unforgettable for every member in our community. Your participation in the Giving Tree Program is a gift in itself.

Important notes

• Gifts must be wrapped, labeled, and dropped off at the Freedom Hill ES front office.
  • When labeling gifts, please use a Post-it or sticky note to label each gift with its contents, the family letter identifier, and age/gender of the child it is intended for. Please do not write this information on the wrapping paper.
• Items are due by December 16th, 2024 to the Freedom Hill ES Front Office
• To maintain the confidentiality of our students the SignUpGenius & Amazon Wishlist links and descriptions of the families are not permitted to be shared outside of the direct FHES community or on any social media platform.

Should you have any questions or concerns, please email the program coordinator, Emely Riera Pineros, at [email protected]

Attendance Update

Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!

Freedom Hill kicked off our Attendance celebrations on October 20th.  Since then, we celebrate classes when all students are present. If a student is sick, they need to stay home. When the stars align and everyone is present, then we get to celebrate.

The Attendance Team examined the school wide percentages for the last twenty days, see image below. The average percentage is 94.9% and evidenced by the trendline running horizontally. The days that have been more challenging for our school are Mondays and days following long weekends.

Yes, Mondays are tough - Have students place their shoes near the door. Go to bed early. Pack backpacks and lunches. Layout clothes. Students can help prepare to start the following day with success. If you’re feeling well, we look forward to seeing you at Freedom Hill tomorrow.

AAP Full-Time Information Meeting Resources

If you missed our meeting, you can find resources below:

• Slides - English/ Spanish
• YouTube Presentation

Please reach out to Mrs. Fredericks for more information. She is excited to support your family with the application process! 

FCPS Cares: Recognize Our Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

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

⏰ Limited Early Release Mondays for Elementary Schools

The remaining scheduled dates for 1:05 early releases for FHES are:

• December 9 
• February 24
• March 17
• April 28
• May 19

Hill Happenings PTA Updates

JOIN US AT THE NEXT VIRTUAL PTA MEETING - DECEMBER 5th

We invite everyone—whether you're a parent, caregiver, teacher—to attend our next PTA meeting! This is a great opportunity to get involved, share your ideas, and help make a positive impact on our school. No matter your background or experience, your voice matters, and we welcome all perspectives. Come meet new people, learn about upcoming events, and be a part of shaping the future of our school community. We hope to see you online on Thursday, December 5th at 7:30PM. A zoom link will be provided in next week’s update.

LAST CHANCE: CELEBRATE UPCOMING HOLIDAYS WITH VIENNA VINTNER

Don’t forget to stop by Vienna Vintner (320 Maple Avenue East) before November 30th to make a purchase in support of the PTA. Just mention Freedom Hill ES, and 20% of your purchase will go back to our school. Make purchases just for fun, for hosting the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday, or even for celebrating winter holidays. Cheers!

 

6th Grade Activities Updates

HOLIDAY CANDYGRAMS ARE BACK!

Are you looking for an easy, sweet way to send a small token of thanks, friendship or merriment to a classmate, teacher or member of the FHES staff? Look no further - the 6th grade class is continuing the annual tradition of selling candygrams! From December 10th - December 19th, the 6th grade class will sell candygrams each morning from 8:30-9:10AM at the main entrance; the 6th graders will deliver the purchased candygrams to the classrooms from December 10th - December 20th. Each candy gram is 50 cents and you can choose either a candy cane or a winter-themed stamp* to accompany your completed note. A flyer with all the details will come home in your student’s folder after the Thanksgiving break.

*Stamps available for purchase while supplies last.

1945 Lord Fairfax Rd, Vienna, VA 22182 | Main Phone: 703.506.7800
Attendance: 703.506.7878 | Website | Twitter

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

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Principals' Update

Dear Freedom Hill Families,

We hope you are having a great weekend! It was a busy week last week, with the Book Fair and many engaging instructional activities in full swing! A big thanks to those who were able to attend our PreK Field Trip, 2nd Grade Informance, or our 3rd Grade Ladybug Museum. We also held elections for SCA, and were very proud of how our students campaigned and showcased respect for one another no matter the election results. 

As we start a new week tomorrow, don't forget:

• Tuesday night is a very special Family Dinner Out at Silver Diner. Many of our 6th graders will be working in the restaurant! Come out and support our school and 6th graders! A big thanks to Camille Paredes and our PTA for their ongoing organization of these events. 
• Thursday is our annual Thanksgiving Luncheon! We are excited to welcome families into our school for a meal of fun and gratitude for one another. Please see the flyer below for your child's (modified) lunchtime and lunch prices (cash only). 

Lastly, we ask for your support with our annual Giving Tree Holiday Assistance Program. FH families have the opportunity to sponsor a family and make a meaningful impact on their holiday season. Please see below for more information, and reach out to our Family Liaison, Ms. Riera, if needed. 

 

Have a great week!

 

Nicholas Zapadka, Principal

Tim Scesney, Assistant Principal

Holly Sims, Assistant Principal

Upcoming Dates for Your Calendar

2024-25 FCPS School Calendar

FCPS Lunch Menu

Freedom Hill Family Resources

• November 19 - PTA Family Dinner Out - Silver Diner
• November 21 - Thanksgiving Luncheon
• November 27 - 29 - Thanksgiving Vacation - School Closed
• December 9 - Early Release Monday (Dismissal at 1:05)
• December 23 - January 3 - Winter Break (School Closed)

School Photos Now Online!

School Photos are now online!

Families should have received an E-proof via email.

Please remember to check your spam.

For any questions about your student's school pictures please contact: [email protected]

The team at Victor O’Neill Studios would like to thank Freedom Hill for a great picture day!

For the next two weeks, we are focusing on Gratitude. You are aware of and thankful for good things that happen.

“The real gift of gratitude is that the more grateful you are, the more present you become.”  

                    ~Robert Holden

 

Questions you might enjoy talking about:

• What are the easiest things to be grateful for? What are the most difficult?
• What are some benefits of gratitude?

How does it make you feel to think that others are grateful for you?

 

National School Psychology Week

Eagles, let's take a moment to recognize and thank our amazing school psychologist, Jeong Choi, during National School Psychology Week.

Ms. Choi works tirelessly to support the mental health and well-being of our students. She provides essential services such as:

• Individual and group counseling
• Crisis/behavioral intervention
• Consultation with teachers and parents
• Psychoeducational assessments

Thanks to Ms. Choi's efforts, our school community is a more positive and supportive place for everyone.

Yearly Impact Aid Form

Beginning Monday, October 21st, FCPS will be asking all families to fill out a Student-Parent Survey for Federal Impact Aid for each child. Submitting this form is important because information from this survey results in an additional $3 million in grants each year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

Help FCPS secure funding by helping us identify: 

• Military families.
• Federally connected families.
• Families living on a military base.

Please complete one form for each child in your household. Remember that only the enrolling parent can fill out the Impact Aid Survey form. 

For families without access to ParentVUE, a paper copy of the form will be sent home with your student starting November 12th. Your information will be kept strictly confidential.

To access the form, please login to SIS ParentVUE, select Online Packets in the top right hand corner, and then click the ‘Federal Impact Aid Survey’ button on the bottom of the page.

If you have multiple children in Fairfax County Public Schools, please make sure to fill out a form for each of your children. You will know you have completed all of the forms when you see a green check next to each of their names on the final screen.

We appreciate you completing the form by December 9th, 2024. 

FHES Holiday Assistance Program

As we celebrate the season of giving this December, we would like to extend an opportunity to come together as a school community to make a lasting impact on the lives of those in need. This year, we invite you to participate in our Giving Tree Program by sponsoring a family. As a refresher, our Giving Tree Program is a holiday assistance program that we offer to families for aid with clothing and gifts.

You may sign up to sponsor a family in the SignUpGenius link below. You will also find the families’ information of clothing sizes, likes, notes, and instructions.

Visit our SignUpGenius link here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0B4DADAD2FA4F8C34-53122112-2024

If you would like to contribute but are unable to sponsor a family at this time, there is an opportunity to purchase individual items for families through our Amazon Wishlist found here: https://www.amazon.com/registries/gl/guest-view/25AS2BHGES59C

Let’s make this holiday season unforgettable for every member in our community. Your participation in the Giving Tree Program is a gift in itself.

Important notes

• Gifts must be wrapped, labeled, and dropped off at the Freedom Hill ES front office.
  • When labeling gifts, please use a Post-it or sticky note to label each gift with its contents, the family letter identifier, and age/gender of the child it is intended for. Please do not write this information on the wrapping paper.
• Items are due by December 16th, 2024 to the Freedom Hill ES Front Office
• To maintain the confidentiality of our students the SignUpGenius & Amazon Wishlist links and descriptions of the families are not permitted to be shared outside of the direct FHES community or on any social media platform.

Should you have any questions or concerns, please email the program coordinator, Emely Riera Pineros, at [email protected]

Thanksgiving Luncheon

Our annual Thanksgiving Lunch will take place on Thursday, November 21st. If you missed our Wednesday folder flyer this week, you can find it at this link. Please note that our lunchtimes are modified. Prices are also listed for parents and additional children who would like to buy a lunch. 

Please know that parking at school is limited, and that families are encouraged to carpool or use neighborhood parking spots during the lunchtime. We look forward to seeing you!

Attendance

Our goal is to partner with families to help minimize the number of days students are absent. Getting your student into the habit of daily attendance helps reduce stress and makes it easier to connect with friends and teachers. We understand that each year presents different extenuating circumstances that lead to missed days. However, we hope to increase communication in regards to absences to reduce impact on your child’s well-being. FCPS has created a Health Flyer for Parents indicating when a parent should keep their child home from school. Please review FCPS Attendance Policies and resources to encourage regular school attendance. 

Beginning in the 2024-25 school year, parents/legal guardians can report up to two consecutive absences through SIS ParentVUE. Learn more about attendance reporting through ParentVUE HERE. Families can also report absences by emailing [email protected] or calling 703-645-6666 before 10:00 a.m. each day.

AAP Full-Time Information Meeting Resources

If you missed our meeting, you can find resources below:

• Slides - English/ Spanish
• YouTube Presentation

Please reach out to Mrs. Fredericks for more information. She is excited to support your family with the application process! 

FCPS Cares: Recognize Our Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

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

⏰ Limited Early Release Mondays for Elementary Schools

The remaining scheduled dates for 1:05 early releases for FHES are:

• December 9 
• February 24
• March 17
• April 28
• May 19

Hill Happenings PTA Updates

SAVE THE DATE - FDO AT SILVER DINER

Save the date of next Tuesday, November 19th from 4-8PM for our November FDO at Silver Diner, located by the Tysons mall at 8101 Fletcher Street. You might recognize some familiar 6th grade faces working that night and greeting you at the door! Eat in or carry out.

CELEBRATE UPCOMING HOLIDAYS WITH VIENNA VINTNER

The PTA has partnered with Vienna Vintner (320 Maple Avenue East) and during the month of November, when you mention Freedom Hill ES, 20% of your purchase will go back to our school. Make purchases just for fun, for hosting the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday, or even for celebrating winter holidays. Cheers!

1945 Lord Fairfax Rd, Vienna, VA 22182 | Main Phone: 703.506.7800
Attendance: 703.506.7878 | Website | Twitter

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

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Principals' Update

Dear Freedom Hill Families,

As we continue this month of gratitude, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to the brave men and women who have served in our nation’s armed forces. Our veterans' sacrifices ensure the freedoms we enjoy every day. We are grateful for their courage, commitment, and service. If you are a veteran, please let your child's teacher know if you would like to stop in for a short visit to share your experiences with the class. We love having guests for morning meeting times. Thank you for all that you’ve done for our country! 

As we start a new school week tomorrow, don't forget:

• The Book Fair is open this week! We are grateful to Mrs. Trott and all of our volunteers. Make sure you stop by. 
• School pictures are now available for purchase. Please check your email for your link, or contact Victor O'Neill using the email address below. 
• Please complete your family's Impact Aid Form if you have not already
• We'll be sending our schedule for our Thanksgiving Luncheon this week!

 

In partnership,

 

Nicholas Zapadka, Principal

Tim Scesney, Assistant Principal

Holly Sims, Assistant Principal

Upcoming Dates for Your Calendar

2024-25 FCPS School Calendar

FCPS Lunch Menu

Freedom Hill Family Resources

• November 11 - Veterans' Day, No School 
• November 12-15 - Fall Book Fair - Volunteer Signup
• November 12 - (Virtual) FLE Preview Night, 6:00PM, Link
• November 13 - Q1 Report Cards Delivered in Wed. Folders
• November 19 - PTA Family Dinner Out - Silver Diner
• November 21 - Thanksgiving Luncheon, Schedule Will Be Sent Home

School Photos Now Online!

School Photos are now online!

Families should have received an E-proof via email.

Please remember to check your spam.

For any questions about your student's school pictures please contact: [email protected]

The team at Victor O’Neill Studios would like to thank Freedom Hill for a great picture day!

 

 

 

This week, we are focusing on a review of traits from Q1!

 

Yearly Impact Aid Form

Beginning Monday, October 21st, FCPS will be asking all families to fill out a Student-Parent Survey for Federal Impact Aid for each child. Submitting this form is important because information from this survey results in an additional $3 million in grants each year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

Help FCPS secure funding by helping us identify: 

• Military families.
• Federally connected families.
• Families living on a military base.

Please complete one form for each child in your household. Remember that only the enrolling parent can fill out the Impact Aid Survey form. 

For families without access to ParentVUE, a paper copy of the form will be sent home with your student starting November 12th. Your information will be kept strictly confidential.

To access the form, please login to SIS ParentVUE, select Online Packets in the top right hand corner, and then click the ‘Federal Impact Aid Survey’ button on the bottom of the page.

If you have multiple children in Fairfax County Public Schools, please make sure to fill out a form for each of your children. You will know you have completed all of the forms when you see a green check next to each of their names on the final screen.

We appreciate you completing the form by December 9th, 2024. 

📍 Boundary Review Community Meetings Start This Month

As a reminder, FCPS has started the process of reviewing school boundaries across the division. This important work will help the district better support student population growth, changes in school capacity, and evolving community needs. Community input is vital to this process. With that in mind, FCPS, in partnership with Thru Consulting, will be hosting a series of community meetings in each of FCPS’ six regions. Participants are encouraged to share their thoughts, ask questions, and learn more about the boundary review process.

Please visit FCPS’ website for meeting dates, locations, and other information. Sign up for the School Boundary Review newsletter for updates.

FLE Preview Night

The Freedom Hill ES Family Life Education (FLE) Parent Preview Night will be held virtually on Tuesday, November 12th at 6:00 p.m. Staff will be present to go over the curriculum materials and answer any questions that you may have. 

There are two units of instruction that are designated as Family Life Education: Emotional and Social Health and Human Growth and Development.   Emotional and Social Health lessons are delivered throughout the school year. Human Growth and Development lessons are scheduled for fourth grade on December 20th, fifth grade from December 13-19th, and sixth grade during the week of December 16-20th. 

FLE teaching materials including lessons and media titles that FCPS has streaming rights for are available through ParentVue.  FLE information is also available in the Freedom Hill All Parents/Guardians Schoology course, in the Green Parent Preview - FLE Instruction folder, including opt out forms. To opt your child(ren) out of one or more lessons, paper forms will be sent home in Wednesday Folders. If you feel you did not receive one please contact your classroom teacher, Holly Sims, [email protected], or Ian Dowling, [email protected].

Additional information is available through FCPS at https://www.fcps.edu/academics/curriculum/subject-area/family-life-education-fle 

Meeting Link

Tutoring Resources for Families

Is your family looking for resources to help support your child’s academic success? FCPS’ Family Resource Center (FRC) maintains a list of district employees who hold a valid Virginia teaching credential and who are available to be hired as a tutor by parents. FRC maintains this list, but families are responsible for contacting and working directly with tutors. This list is not “approved” by FCPS and is only meant as a resource.

FCPS also partners 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, study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests.

✨ FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan Goal 3: Academic Growth and Excellence, reminds us of our commitment to supporting each and every student and helping them meet or exceed high academic standards.

Native American Heritage Month

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

Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. 

FCPS Cares: Recognize Our Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

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

⏰ Limited Early Release Mondays for Elementary Schools

The remaining scheduled dates for 1:05 early releases for FHES are:

• December 9 
• February 24
• March 17
• April 28
• May 19

Hill Happenings PTA Updates

DON’T FORGET - JOIN THE PTA BY NOVEMBER 15th

If you haven’t already joined the PTA, make sure you join by this Friday, November 15th to be eligible for Freedom Hill swag. Thank you to all the families, teachers and staff that have joined! Visit our PTA website here to join today.

 

SAVE THE DATE - FDO AT SILVER DINER

Save the date of next Tuesday, November 19th from 4-8PM for our November FDO at Silver Diner, located by the Tysons mall at 8101 Fletcher Street. You might recognize some familiar 6th grade faces working that night and greeting you at the door! Eat in or carry out.

CELEBRATE UPCOMING HOLIDAYS WITH VIENNA VINTNER

The PTA has partnered with Vienna Vintner (320 Maple Avenue East) and during the month of November, when you mention Freedom Hill ES, 20% of your purchase will go back to our school. Make purchases just for fun, for hosting the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday, or even for celebrating winter holidays. Cheers!

1945 Lord Fairfax Rd, Vienna, VA 22182 | Main Phone: 703.506.7800
Attendance: 703.506.7878 | Website | Twitter

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

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Principals' Update

Dear Freedom Hill Families,

Can you believe the first quarter has come to an end? For eleven weeks our students have shined brightly, and this week was certainly no different! We navigated an unusual schedule and had lots of fun with our Harvest Spirit Week. We especially enjoyed some sports rivalries on sports shirt day, the comfiness of our PJs, and seeing some great costumes on Thursday. We shared seasonal learning activities together, many fall or Halloween themed, as we continued to meet our goals for the year. 

As we start the second quarter, we need your help! 

1. Please make sure you have signed up for a conference with your teacher(s)! This is a great way to hear about your child's start to the year and to partner with their teacher for success. 
2. Please complete the Impact Aid Form (see below). 
3. If you are able, please consider donating paper towels to the school. We use these for so many activities for staff and students!

Have a great week, and don't forget that the Book Fair launches on Friday! We have opportunities for families to visit after school on 11/12 and 11/13. Thanks, as always, to Mrs. Trott and our great volunteers!

 

See you Wednesday,

 

Nicholas Zapadka, Principal

Tim Scesney, Assistant Principal

Holly Sims, Assistant Principal

Upcoming Dates for Your Calendar

2024-25 FCPS School Calendar

FCPS Lunch Menu

Freedom Hill Family Resources

• November 4/5 - No School (School Planning / Election Day)
• November 8-15 - Fall Book Fair - Volunteer Signup
• November 11 - Veterans' Day, No School 
• November 12 - (Virtual) FLE Preview Night, 6:00PM, Link
• November 13 - Q1 Report Cards Delivered in Wed. Folders
• November 19 - PTA Family Dinner Out - Silver Diner
• November 21 - Thanksgiving Luncheon, Schedule Will Be Sent Home

 

 

 

This week, we are focusing on Bravery. You act with mental, moral, or physical strength even when you know things are difficult or scary.

 

“Courage does not always roar. Sometimes, courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, ‘I will try again tomorrow.’”

                    ~Mary Anne Radmacher

 

Questions you might enjoy talking about:

• What are some situations that may call for bravery?
• What are the differences between moral, mental, and physical bravery?

Why is it sometimes difficult to be brave?

 

Yearly Impact Aid Form

Beginning Monday, October 21st, FCPS will be asking all families to fill out a Student-Parent Survey for Federal Impact Aid for each child. Submitting this form is important because information from this survey results in an additional $3 million in grants each year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

Help FCPS secure funding by helping us identify: 

• Military families.
• Federally connected families.
• Families living on a military base.

Please complete one form for each child in your household. Remember that only the enrolling parent can fill out the Impact Aid Survey form. 

For families without access to ParentVUE, a paper copy of the form will be sent home with your student starting November 12th. Your information will be kept strictly confidential.

To access the form, please login to SIS ParentVUE, select Online Packets in the top right hand corner, and then click the ‘Federal Impact Aid Survey’ button on the bottom of the page.

If you have multiple children in Fairfax County Public Schools, please make sure to fill out a form for each of your children. You will know you have completed all of the forms when you see a green check next to each of their names on the final screen.

We appreciate you completing the form by December 9th, 2024. 

Diwali

Did you know that many of our families and staff celebrate Diwali? Diwali is a festival of lights and one of the major festivals celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs & some Buddhists. The festival represents the symbolic victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil. On Thrusday, some of our Freedom Hill staff members cooked the staff an incredible Diwali meal, and shared some of their traditions with us. Freedom Hill is such a wonderful, diverse place to learn about others!

FLE Preview Night

The Freedom Hill ES Family Life Education (FLE) Parent Preview Night will be held virtually on Tuesday, November 12th at 6:00 p.m. Staff will be present to go over the curriculum materials and answer any questions that you may have. 

There are two units of instruction that are designated as Family Life Education: Emotional and Social Health and Human Growth and Development.   Emotional and Social Health lessons are delivered throughout the school year. Human Growth and Development lessons are scheduled for fourth grade on December 20th, fifth grade from December 13-19th, and sixth grade during the week of December 16-20th. 

FLE teaching materials including lessons and media titles that FCPS has streaming rights for are available through ParentVue.  FLE information is also available in the Freedom Hill All Parents/Guardians Schoology course, in the Green Parent Preview - FLE Instruction folder, including opt out forms. To opt your child(ren) out of one or more lessons, paper forms will be sent home in Wednesday Folders. If you feel you did not receive one please contact your classroom teacher, Holly Sims, [email protected], or Ian Dowling, [email protected].

Additional information is available through FCPS at https://www.fcps.edu/academics/curriculum/subject-area/family-life-education-fle 

Meeting Link

Q1 Lost & Found Cleanout

Missing clothing or other personal items? Please stop in and check the lost and found (located in the cafeteria). We will be donating lost clothing to a good cause in the coming weeks if not claimed. 

Native American Heritage Month

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

Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. 

FCPS Cares: Recognize Our Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

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

⏰ Limited Early Release Mondays for Elementary Schools

The remaining scheduled dates for 1:05 early releases for FHES are:

• December 9 
• February 24
• March 17
• April 28
• May 19

Hill Happenings PTA Updates

Thank you to all the families that contributed to the Snack Attack on Monday afternoon.  Your generosity was jaw-some and the fin-tastic treats delighted the many teachers and staff members that stopped by. 

 

CELEBRATE UPCOMING HOLIDAYS WITH VIENNA VINTNER

The PTA has partnered with Vienna Vintner (320 Maple Avenue East) and during the month of November, when you mention Freedom Hill ES, 20% of your purchase will go back to our school. Make purchases just for fun, for hosting the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday, or even for celebrating winter holidays. Cheers!

 

SAVE THE DATE - FDO AT SILVER DINER

Save the date of Tuesday, November 19th from 4-8PM for our November FDO at Silver Diner, located by the Tysons mall at 8101 Fletcher Street. You might recognize some familiar faces working that night and greeting you at the door! Eat in or carry out.

1945 Lord Fairfax Rd, Vienna, VA 22182 | Main Phone: 703.506.7800
Attendance: 703.506.7878 | Website | Twitter

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

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Principals' Update

Dear Freedom Hill Families,

Attend Today - Achieve Tomorrow! On Monday students participated in an AttenDANCE. The assembly highlighted that our school has amazing students, teachers, and families. This also included some dancing! Freedom Hill is a great school where students grow and learn in a caring environment.

Coming to school when students are healthy helps students thrive. Regular attendance has a direct impact on student success. For example, it correlates with high academic achievement, builds social and emotional learning, and increases a students’ ability to read proficiently by the end of third grade. Thank you for notifying the school when your student is sick and unable to come to school. 

On Friday, we had so much fun at our yearly Hallowingo! A big thanks to our PTA supporters, especially event organizer Gina Song, who created such a fun evening for us in the cafeteria. We were dazzled by the many costumes and, as always, enjoyed the quality time together with our community. 

As we look ahead to Harvest Spirit Week please be aware of our unusual schedule:

• Monday, 10/28 - 3-hour early release at 1:05 (SACC open)
• Thursday, 10/31 - 2-hour early release at 2:05 (SACC open)
• Friday, 11/1 - School Closed (Diwali)  

We hope you have a great week and end of the first quarter! Please don't forget to fill out your family's Impact Aid Form (see below). 

 

Nicholas Zapadka, Principal

Tim Scesney, Assistant Principal

Holly Sims, Assistant Principal

Upcoming Dates for Your Calendar

2024-25 FCPS School Calendar

FCPS Lunch Menu

Freedom Hill Family Resources

• October 28 - 31 - Harvest Spirit Week
• October 28 - Three Hour Early Release Day
• October 29 - Full-Time AAP Information Night, 6:30PM, Link or Library
• October 31 - Q1 Ends, 2-Hour Early Release
• October 31 - Last Day of Spiritwear Sale
• November 1 - School Closed - Diwali
• November 4/5 - No School (School Planning / Election Day)
• November 8-15 - Fall Book Fair - Volunteer Signup

 

 

 

 

 

This week, we are working on ONE of the FIVE overarching components of the Positivity Project. Knowing that everything you do and say can affect others-and your relationships with them.

 

“Solid character will reflect itself in consistent behavior, while poor character will seek to hide behind deceptive words and actions.”  

                    ~Myles Munroe

Often times, knowing something and acting like you know it doesn’t line up with each other. For example, you know that your words and actions impact other people, but your behavior doesn’t always show that understanding.

What does it look like to KNOW that your words and actions impact others?

Yearly Impact Aid Form

Beginning Monday, October 21st, FCPS will be asking all families to fill out a Student-Parent Survey for Federal Impact Aid for each child. Submitting this form is important because information from this survey results in an additional $3 million in grants each year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

Help FCPS secure funding by helping us identify: 

• Military families.
• Federally connected families.
• Families living on a military base.

Please complete one form for each child in your household. Remember that only the enrolling parent can fill out the Impact Aid Survey form. 

For families without access to ParentVUE, a paper copy of the form will be sent home with your student starting November 12th. Your information will be kept strictly confidential.

To access the form, please login to SIS ParentVUE, select Online Packets in the top right hand corner, and then click the ‘Federal Impact Aid Survey’ button on the bottom of the page.

If you have multiple children in Fairfax County Public Schools, please make sure to fill out a form for each of your children. You will know you have completed all of the forms when you see a green check next to each of their names on the final screen.

We appreciate you completing the form by December 9th, 2024. 

Full-Time AAP Information Night

On Tuesday, October 29th at 6:30PM we will be holding an information session (Zoom Link or in the Library) for parents interested in referring their child(ren) for full time AAP services (also called level 4). The meeting is intended for parents of 2nd-6th grade students, but all are welcome! We will be focusing on the steps of the full time AAP referral process and answering questions. If you would like more general information about all AAP services, or would like to talk about your student, please email Mrs. Fredericks. Also, please check out the AAP folder on Schoology. There are links to forms, AAP details, slideshows, videos, and more

In Virginia during October, Disability History and Awareness activities provide an opportunity to create greater public awareness for individuals with disabilities, with the goal of full inclusion in our community.

Social Studies Basel Resources Review

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

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

Community Conversations with Dr. Reid

🎤 Join Dr. Reid for a series of Community Conversations and share your feedback about our schools.

• October 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Herndon Middle School

Register to attend: https://bit.ly/472s5Oa

FCPS Cares: Recognize Our Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

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

Hill Happenings PTA Updates

The FHES cafeteria was the place to be on Friday night - it was a packed house for Hallowingo!  Thank you to the many parent, student and faculty volunteers and guest number-callers who helped make Hallowingo such a success. A special shout-out to Gina Song who organized the event again this year.

 

CELEBRATE UPCOMING HOLIDAYS WITH VIENNA VINTNER

The PTA has partnered with Vienna Vintner (320 Maple Avenue East) and during the month of November, when you mention Freedom Hill ES, 20% of your purchase will go back to our school. You can make purchases just for fun, for hosting the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday, or even for celebrating winter holidays. Cheers!

 

SAVE THE DATE - FDO AT SILVER DINER

Save the date of Tuesday, November 19th from 4-8PM for our November FDO at Silver Diner, located by the Tysons mall at 8101 Fletcher Street. You might recognize some familiar faces working that night and greeting you at the door! Eat in or carry out.

 

PURCHASE FHES SPIRITWEAR - ENDS THIS THURSDAY

 Exciting Spiritwear Alert!

We’re excited to unveil our latest additions: the Girls/Ladies V-neck Performance Tee and Performance Polo!

Check out the newest spiritwear refresh here. The online Spiritwear store will close on October 31st. All orders will be delivered to the school approximately 3 weeks after the sale ends.

1945 Lord Fairfax Rd, Vienna, VA 22182 | Main Phone: 703.506.7800
Attendance: 703.506.7878 | Website | Twitter

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

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Principals' Update

Dear Freedom Hill Families,

As we move toward the end of our first quarter of the 24-25 school year, we want to say a big thank you for your support of our students and programs! We have had such a positive start to the school year. Our hardworking staff are leading the way with much "new", and our students are putting great effort into all that they do. Our hallways and classrooms come alive with the joy of learning and togetherness each day. What a great place to be a student!

Like every autumn, we have many opportunities for families to be involved with our school community. This week, we'd love to see you at the virtual PTA Meeting (Monday), Family Dinner Out (Tuesday), and Hallowingo (Friday) - pre-order your pizza below!  

As we look ahead to next week (and our annual Harvest Spirit Week), please be aware of our unusual schedule:

• Monday, 10/28 - 3-hour early release at 1:05 (SACC open)
• Thursday, 10/31 - 2-hour early release at 2:05 (SACC open)
• Friday, 11/1 - School Closed (Diwali) 

Even with all of these great events, don't forget the importance of having a conference with your child(ren)'s classroom teacher! All families should have received a notification about choosing a time. This is a great way to hear about your child's strengths and how we can partner for a successful year. 

We hope you have a great week!

 

Nicholas Zapadka, Principal

Tim Scesney, Assistant Principal

Holly Sims, Assistant Principal

Upcoming Dates for Your Calendar

2024-25 FCPS School Calendar

FCPS Lunch Menu

Freedom Hill Family Resources

• October 21 - PTA Meeting, 7:30PM, Virtual
• October 22 - PTA Family Dinner Out, Chipotle Vienna
• October 25 - Hallowingo, 6-8PM
• October 28 - 31 - Harvest Spirit Week
• October 28 - Three Hour Early Release Day
• October 29 - Full-Time AAP Information Night, 6:30PM
• October 31 - Q1 Ends, 2-Hour Early Release
• October 31 - Last Day of Spiritwear Sale
• November 1 - School Closed - Diwali
• November 8-15 - Fall Book Fair - Volunteer Signup

 

 

This week, we are focusing on Creativity. You come up with new and original ways to think about and do things.

"Others have seen what is and asked why. I have seen what could be and asked why not." 

                    ~Pablo Picasso

Questions you might enjoy talking about:

• What is one way you were creative today?
• What is a new idea that you've had this week?

How can creativity change the world?

Yearly Impact Aid Form

Beginning Monday, October 21st, FCPS will be asking all families to fill out a Student-Parent Survey for Federal Impact Aid for each child. Submitting this form is important because information from this survey results in an additional $3 million in grants each year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

Help FCPS secure funding by helping us identify: 

• Military families.
• Federally connected families.
• Families living on a military base.

Please complete one form for each child in your household. Remember that only the enrolling parent can fill out the Impact Aid Survey form. 

For families without access to ParentVUE, a paper copy of the form will be sent home with your student starting November 12th. Your information will be kept strictly confidential.

To access the form, please login to SIS ParentVUE, select Online Packets in the top right hand corner, and then click the ‘Federal Impact Aid Survey’ button on the bottom of the page.

If you have multiple children in Fairfax County Public Schools, please make sure to fill out a form for each of your children. You will know you have completed all of the forms when you see a green check next to each of their names on the final screen.

We appreciate you completing the form by December 9th, 2024. 

Full-Time AAP Information Night

On Tuesday, October 29th at 6:30PM we will be holding an information session for parents interested in referring their child(ren) for full time AAP services (also called level 4). The meeting is intended for parents of 2nd-6th grade students, but all are welcome! We will be focusing on the steps of the full time AAP referral process and answering questions. If you would like more general information about all AAP services, or would like to talk about your student, please email Mrs. Fredericks. Also, please check out the AAP folder on Schoology. There are links to forms, AAP details, slideshows, videos, and more

In Virginia during October, Disability History and Awareness activities provide an opportunity to create greater public awareness for individuals with disabilities, with the goal of full inclusion in our community.

Social Studies Basel Resources Review

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

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

Community Conversations with Dr. Reid

🎤 Join Dr. Reid for a series of Community Conversations and share your feedback about our schools.

• October 21, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Virginia Run Elementary School
• October 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Herndon Middle School

Register to attend: https://bit.ly/472s5Oa

FCPS Cares: Recognize Our Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

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

Hill Happenings PTA Updates

FRIDAY - COME TO HALLOWINGO 

Join us this Friday, October 25th from 6-8PM as we play B-I-N-G-O, win prizes, eat pizza and enjoy seeing your costume or fall attire. Bingo cards are only $1 and can be re-used throughout the night.

Pre-purchase a pizza dinner here.  Snacks, drinks, a limited amount of pizza, and bingo cards will be available for purchase throughout the event.  And don’t forget to sign up here to volunteer at the event - this is a popular event that requires lots of helping hands.

 

MONDAY - ATTEND THE PTA MEETING

The next PTA meeting is tomorrow, Monday, October 21st at 7:30PM. Join us virtually using this zoom link.

 

TUESDAY - DINE OUT AT CHIPOTLE

Forget the cooking and join the FHES community this Tuesday, October 22nd at Chipotle at 213 Maple Avenue East in Vienna for another family-dinner-out. Stop by anytime between 5PM and 10PM and mention Freedom Hill when you order and the PTA will receive a portion of the sales. Use code D9MFHXR for online orders.

 

STAFF/FACULTY APPRECIATION SNACK ATTACK

The PTA is appreciating the FHES staff and faculty during the October 28th 3-hour early release Monday. You can support the snack attack by purchasing an item from the shopping list here. Make sure to check the delivery address before purchasing - select delivery to Alexandra Bryden who is coordinating this order. Please note that all items must be delivered by Friday, October 25th.

 

PURCHASE FHES SPIRITWEAR

 Exciting Spiritwear Alert!

We’re excited to unveil our latest additions: the Girls/Ladies V-neck Performance Tee and Performance Polo!

Check out the newest spiritwear refresh here. The online Spiritwear store will close on October 31st. All orders will be delivered to the school approximately 3 weeks after the sale ends.

1945 Lord Fairfax Rd, Vienna, VA 22182 | Main Phone: 703.506.7800
Attendance: 703.506.7878 | Website | Twitter

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

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Principals' Update

Dear Freedom Hill Community,

We had a great week here at Freedom Hill. We believe we speak for students AND staff when we express how nice it was to have the sun return! Outdoor recess on cool fall days is always the best. As the weather cools this week, don't forget to send your child with layers to school so that they can adjust to recess and indoor temperatures. Tomorrow is a day off for students as staff engage in professional learning. 

As we move toward the conclusion of our first quarter of instruction, we want to say a big thank you to our teachers for their incredibly hard work learning and incorporating our new reading curriculum. They are making it come alive for our students and ensuring that all are supported. On Friday, we saw some great evidence of this - a big thanks to our 5th grade team for extended students' learning of natural resources by holding a "Corn Fest" lunch potluck. Thanks to everyone who attended!

On Friday, we will have our annual Fall Picture Day. Families can pre-order their school photos using the information below from Victor O'Neill Studios. All students will have their photo taken for our school directory.  

 

School Picture Day is Coming!

📅 Date: Friday, October 18, 2024

🛒 Pre-order Online: https://vando.imagequix.com/g1001132696#login

📸 Images Available: Approximately two-three weeks after picture day

📧 Questions about Ordering? Email us at [email protected]

 

Have a great week! Don't forget to get ready for Hallowingo - see below!

 

Nicholas Zapadka, Principal

Tim Scesney, Assistant Principal

Holly Sims, Assistant Principal

Upcoming Dates for Your Calendar

2024-25 FCPS School Calendar

FCPS Lunch Menu

Freedom Hill Family Resources

• October 14 - Student Holiday; Staff Development Day
• October 18 - Fall Picture Day
• October 21 - PTA Meeting, 7:30PM
• October 22 - PTA Family Dinner Out, Chipotle Vienna
• October 25 - Hallowingo, 6-8PM
• October 28 - Three Hour Early Release Day
• October 29 - Full-Time AAP Information Night, 6:30PM
• October 31 - Q1 Ends, 2-Hour Early Release
• October 31 - Last Day of Spiritwear Sale
• November 8-15 - Fall Book Fair - Volunteer Signup

 

 

This week, we are focusing on Integrity. You are honest and speak the truth. You present yourself genuinely and sincerely.

“Wrong is wrong, even if everyone is doing it. Right is right, even if no one is doing it.”  

                    ~Unknown

Questions you might enjoy talking about:

• What does integrity mean to you?
• When is it difficult to show integrity in your day-to-day life?

Why is it important to show integrity in your relationships with others?

Monday, October 14th, is a student holiday and staff development day for Indigenous Peoples' Day.  On this day, we honor the histories, cultures, and contributions of Native peoples, past and present. See the complete school year calendar.

In Virginia during October, Disability History and Awareness activities provide an opportunity to create greater public awareness for individuals with disabilities, with the goal of full inclusion in our community.

Social Studies Basel Resources Review

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

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

Free COVID-19 Tests Available

Households across the country can once again order four free COVID-19 tests that detect current COVID-19 variants, with no shipping costs delivered straight to you. Tests will begin shipping the week of September 30th. 

Community Conversations with Dr. Reid

🎤 Join Dr. Reid for a series of Community Conversations and share your feedback about our schools.

• October 14, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Fairhill Elementary School
• October 21, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Virginia Run Elementary School
• October 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Herndon Middle School

Register to attend: https://bit.ly/472s5Oa

Hill Happenings PTA Updates

PTA Updates

The end of the first quarter is near but we still have a lot of fun activities planned for the community!

 

HALLOWINGO IS BACK!  *B - I - N - G - O*

A Freedom Hill tradition is returning this school year as HALLOWINGO on Friday, October 25th from 6-8PM! Spend the evening playing bingo with members of the FHES community while dressed in costume (no masks please) or festive fall attire. You can support the 6th grade class year-end moving-up activities by pre-purchasing a pizza dinner here.  Snacks, drinks, a limited amount of pizza, and bingo cards will be available for purchase throughout the event.  And don’t forget to sign up here to volunteer at the event - this is a popular event that requires lots of helping hands.

We are still accepting prizes for bingo winners. Use this as an opportunity to clear your home to make space for any new toys, games, and crafts that may arrive during the holidays. Donated prizes can be small or large, new or gently used, leftover gifts, etc. Drop off in the PTA collection box in the main office.

 

STAFF/FACULTY APPRECIATION SNACK ATTACK

The PTA is appreciating the FHES staff and faculty during the October 28th 3-hour early release Monday. You can support the snack attack by purchasing an item from the shopping list here. Make sure to check the delivery address before purchasing - select delivery to Alexandra Bryden who is coordinating this order. Please note that all items must be delivered by Friday, October 25th.

 

PURCHASE FHES SPIRITWEAR

Didn’t find what you were looking for at Open House?  Looking for something new?  Our spiritwear store is up and running - check it out here!  The store will be available through the end of October and all items will ship to the school approximately 3 weeks after the store closes.  From there, we’ll deliver your purchases to your student’s homeroom class.  Spiritwear makes great winter holiday gifts for students, grandparents, and aunts and uncles.

 

SAVE THESE UPCOMING DATES

• The next PTA meeting will be Monday, October 21st at 7:30PM and it will be virtual only. A zoom link will also be provided closer to the meeting.
• The next Family Dinner Out (FDO) will be Tuesday, October 22nd at Chipotle on Maple Avenue in Vienna. Stop by anytime between 5PM and 10PM and mention Freedom Hill when you order and the PTA will receive a portion of the sales.
• Hallowingo will be Friday, October 25th from 6-8PM. Start planning your festive fall attire and/or costume.

1945 Lord Fairfax Rd, Vienna, VA 22182 | Main Phone: 703.506.7800
Attendance: 703.506.7878 | Website | Twitter

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

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Principals' Update

Dear Freedom Hill Community,

We hope all of our students enjoyed their long weekend, and that everyone who celebrated Rosh Hashanah had a wonderful holiday! We are excited to welcome everyone back to school tomorrow as we continue our great progress this year. A big thank you to our community for your support of school attendance this year, which is so important for our students' success. Our chronic absenteeism rates have dropped again so far this year. We will be sharing some additional information soon on some fun we have planned for classes that are demonstrating great attendance!

Last week, we appreciated our FHES Custodial Crew on Custodian Appreciation Day. A big thanks to Salvador, Yeni, Rosalina, and Vilma - the best team in FCPS! Their diligence maintaining our building and grounds is essential, and we appreciate their care that they show each day. 

On October 18, we will have our annual Fall Picture Day. Families can pre-order their school photos using the information below from Victor O'Neill Studios. All students will have their photo taken for our school directory.  

 

School Picture Day is Coming!

📅 Date: Friday, October 18, 2024

🛒 Pre-order Online: https://vando.imagequix.com/g1001132696#login

📸 Images Available: Approximately two-three weeks after picture day

📧 Questions about Ordering? Email us at [email protected]

 

Have a great week!

Nicholas Zapadka, Principal

Tim Scesney, Assistant Principal

Holly Sims, Assistant Principal

Upcoming Dates for Your Calendar

2024-25 FCPS School Calendar

FCPS Lunch Menu

Freedom Hill Family Resources

• October 14 - Student Holiday; Staff Development Day
• October 18 - Fall Picture Day
• October 21 - PTA Meeting, 7:30PM
• October 22 - PTA Family Dinner Out, Chipotle Vienna
• October 25 - Hallowingo, 6-8PM
• October 28 - Three Hour Early Release Day
• October 29 - Full-Time AAP Information Night, 6:30PM
• October 31 - Last Day of Spiritwear Sale

 

 

This week our school community will be focusing on the Other People Mindset of Being Present and Giving Others My Attention. This means when I’m with other people, I’m present and give them my full attention.

This element of the Other People Mindset is so important today due to the increasing number of distractions vying for our time and attention. Phone calls, text messages, emails, social media notifications all have the dangerous capacity to pull us away from the present moment and, what’s most important -- our relationships with other people.

Just like plants need sunlight to grow, our relationships need attention. If we don’t give our attention to the people we’re building relationships with -- whether family members, close friends, or even distant colleagues -- we can’t build those relationships. It’s vitally important that we pick our heads up from our cell phones and truly listen to other people when they’re talking. A positive culture is built on positive relationships -- and we can’t build positive relationships without attention.

Friday, October 11th, will be an evening-only observance day for Yom Kippur, the holiest day in Judaism. There is school that day, but important events will not occur after school. See the complete school year calendar.

In Virginia during October, Disability History and Awareness activities provide an opportunity to create greater public awareness for individuals with disabilities, with the goal of full inclusion in our community.

Save the Date for Our Thanksgiving Luncheon!

We are looking forward to hosting our families for our annual Thanksgiving Luncheon on Thursday, November 21! Please save the date and stay tuned for additional details.

Free COVID-19 Tests Available

Households across the country can once again order four free COVID-19 tests that detect current COVID-19 variants, with no shipping costs delivered straight to you. Tests will begin shipping the week of September 30th. 

Community Conversations with Dr. Reid

🎤 Join Dr. Reid for a series of Community Conversations and share your feedback about our schools.

• October 14, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Fairhill Elementary School
• October 21, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Virginia Run Elementary School
• October 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Herndon Middle School

Register to attend: https://bit.ly/472s5Oa

Hill Happenings PTA Updates

PURCHASE FHES SPIRITWEAR

Didn’t find what you were looking for at Open House?  Looking for something new?  Our spiritwear store is up and running - check it out here!  The store will be available through the end of October and all items will ship to the school approximately 3 weeks after the store closes.  From there, we’ll deliver your purchases to your student’s homeroom class.  Spiritwear makes great winter holiday gifts for students, grandparents, and aunts and uncles.

 

WANTED: HALLOWEEN BINGO PRIZE DONATIONS

A Freedom Hill tradition is returning this school year as HALLOWINGO on Friday, October 25th from 6-8PM! Details on pre-purchasing and volunteering are forthcoming but you may be able to guess that this will involve Bingo and Fall fun. We are in need of prizes for bingo winners. Use this as an opportunity to clear your home to make space for any new toys, games, and crafts that may arrive during the holidays. Donated prizes can be small or large, new or gently used, leftover gifts, etc. Drop off in the PTA collection box in the main office.

 

SAVE THESE UPCOMING DATES

• The next PTA meeting will be Monday, October 21st at 7:30PM and it will be virtual only. A zoom link will also be provided closer to the meeting.
• The next Family Dinner Out (FDO) will be Tuesday, October 22nd at Chipotle on Maple Avenue in Vienna. Stop by anytime between 5PM and 10PM and mention Freedom Hill when you order and the PTA will receive a portion of the sales.
• Hallowingo will be Friday, October 25th from 6-8PM. Start planning your festive fall attire and/or costume.

1945 Lord Fairfax Rd, Vienna, VA 22182 | Main Phone: 703.506.7800
Attendance: 703.506.7878 | Website | Twitter