Washington Mill

GovDelivery2 days 3 hours ago

WMES Spelling Bee 

Congratulations to Jacqueline Fraley, our 3rd Annual Spelling Bee Champion! Jacqueline demonstrated incredible skill, perseverance, and confidence throughout the competition, and we are so proud of her achievement.

We also want to recognize and celebrate all of our amazing participants who bravely took the stage and gave their best effort. Competing in a spelling bee takes courage and dedication, and each of you should be proud of yourselves!

Thank you to everyone who supported and cheered on our spellers. We look forward to another exciting competition next year!  

Principal Evaluation Parent/Guardian Questionnaire

We Want Your Feedback! Principal Evaluation Parent/Guardian Questionnaire
On Monday, March 24, parents and guardians of Washington Mill will receive an email with a link to the FCPS Principal Evaluation Parent/Guardian Feedback Form. This questionnaire is part of the Performance Evaluation Program and provides an opportunity to share anonymous feedback about our school’s leadership and environment.

Topics covered in the survey include:

  • Instructional leadership
  • School climate
  • Management (human resources and organizational)
  • Communication and community relations
  • Culturally responsive and equitable leadership
  • Professionalism

The questionnaire will be open March 24 – April 4 and will be collected online. Keep an eye out for an email from [email protected] and take a few minutes to complete it.


Your input is valuable and helps shape the future of our school. Thank you for your time and feedback!

Dear Families,

We’re excited to share that the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) has approved a new option for students who will be fasting during the school day from February 28 to March 28, 2025. Students can now request take-home breakfast and lunch meal kits to ensure they have nutritious meals available outside of school hours.

How It Works:

  • Students can receive one breakfast and one lunch kit per day (if they do not purchase a meal at school that day).
  • Meals must be picked up by students at the end of the school day—adults cannot collect them.
  • Meal kits will be kept cold and should be heated at home.

How to Request Meal Kits:

Parents/guardians must submit a weekly request form on the FCPS Food & Nutrition Services (FNS) website by the following deadlines:

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

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

Action Needed:

If your child will be fasting and would like to receive meal kits, please visit the FNS website to complete the request form before the deadlines. All information about the program is available on the website.

Thank you for your support in ensuring all students have access to healthy meals!

Ramadan Considerations (March 1-30)

As Ramadan approaches, we want to be mindful of the needs of our Muslim students and families. Ramadan is a sacred time marked by prayer, reflection, and fasting from dawn to sunset. We recognize that this may impact students' energy levels and participation in certain activities.

💡 If your child will be fasting and requires accommodations during lunch, PE, or other activities, please reach out to us. We are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all students.

 

Chronic Absenteeism Rate

Above is our Chronic Absenteeism rate as of March 11, 2025.  Help us stay under 15% for Chronic Absenteeism!  Staying under 15% is part of the VDOE school accreditation requirement.

QUICK LINKS 

9100 Cherrytree Drive, Alexandria, VA 22309 |  Main Phone: 703.619-2500  Attendance: 703.619.2525 | Web | Twitter

Washington Mill

GovDelivery1 week 3 days ago
Principal's Message

Dear WMES Families,

We want to remind you of our upcoming early release Mondays: 

  • Monday, March 10– Students will be dismissed three hours early at 12:20 PM for teacher professional learning and planning. 
  • Monday, April 21– This is also the first day back from Spring Break. Students will be dismissed early at 12:20 PM. 

We understand that early dismissal can be challenging for some families, so we are offering extended care on both days for those who need it. 

To help us plan for dismissal, please complete the Google form below for each of your children by Wednesday, March 5 to indicate whether they will be dismissed at 12:20 PM or 3:20 PM on March 10 and April 21. 

Thank you for your support! 

With gratitude,

Brad Bennink

Principal, Washington Mill Elementary

📞 703-619-2500

WMES Spelling Bee 

Get ready to spell your way to victory! 🏆 Washington Mill Elementary is hosting its 2nd annual Spelling Bee on Thursday, March 6th. Come cheer on our amazing spellers as they showcase their hard work and linguistic skills! Families will arrive at 5:30 PM, with opening remarks at 5:45 PM, and the Bee starts promptly at 6:00 PM. Your presence would mean a lot to our students.  We hope to see you there! 

Supporting Positive Student Behavior

At WMES, we are committed to creating a positive and structured learning environment for all students. Our school-wide behavior framework ensures that students feel safe, supported, and empowered to make positive choices. Key components include:

✔ Responsive Classroom (RC) practices

✔ Consistent routines and procedures in every classroom

✔ Zones of Regulation to help students manage emotions

✔ Counseling lessons & mediation supports

✔ Supervision and structured recess zones for student safety

While we strive to teach and reinforce positive behaviors, we also recognize that students will sometimes make mistakes. When this happens, we focus on fair, supportive, and restorative consequences that provide clear boundaries while helping students grow from their experiences. Thank you for your continued support in reinforcing these expectations at home!

Staffing Updates & Job Fair

We are already planning for a strong start to the 2025-2026 school year! Our administrative team is committed to ensuring that WMES is fully staffed with high-quality educators who reflect and support our diverse school community.

📢 Do you know an outstanding teacher looking for a new opportunity? Our team will be attending the FCPS Instructional Job Fair on March 8 to recruit top talent. If you know a great educator interested in joining the WMES family, please encourage them to apply!

Ramadan Considerations (March 1-30)

As Ramadan approaches, we want to be mindful of the needs of our Muslim students and families. Ramadan is a sacred time marked by prayer, reflection, and fasting from dawn to sunset. We recognize that this may impact students' energy levels and participation in certain activities.

💡 If your child will be fasting and requires accommodations during lunch, PE, or other activities, please reach out to us. We are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all students.

Upcoming Student Experience Survey

Our school will participate in the FCPS Student Experience Survey. This survey will gather important feedback from students about their school experiences to help FCPS make meaningful improvements.

All students in grades 3-6, except those who have opted out, will receive a link to the survey in their FCPS email on today. We will administer the survey during the school day between Monday, February 24, and Friday, March 7. Any student may take the survey at home, if they are unable to take the survey during the school day. You will receive a communication with details on how to preview the survey and opt your child out, if you choose. 

We believe it's important to hear from our students about what we're doing well and where we can improve. This work also aligns with the five equity commitments in FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan, which focus on amplifying student voice and experiences as we work toward meeting plan goals.

Chronic Absenteeism Rate

Above is our Chronic Absenteeism rate as of March 3, 2025.  Help us stay under 15% for Chronic Absenteeism!  Staying under 15% is part of the VDOE school accreditation requirement.

QUICK LINKS 

9100 Cherrytree Drive, Alexandria, VA 22309 |  Main Phone: 703.619-2500  Attendance: 703.619.2525 | Web | Twitter

Washington Mill

GovDelivery2 weeks 2 days ago
Principal's Message

Dear WMES Families,

We hope you are having a wonderful week! As always, we are grateful for your partnership in creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment for our students. Here are some important updates and reminders for the coming weeks.

We appreciate your partnership in making WMES a great place to learn and grow.

With gratitude,

Brad Bennink

Principal, Washington Mill Elementary

📞 703-619-2500

Celebrating President’s Day at WMES

This past week, our students engaged in meaningful activities to recognize Presidents Day and reflect on the contributions of past U.S. presidents. Many classrooms incorporated discussions, readings, and interactive lessons to help students learn about the role of the presidency and its impact on our country.

Our 4th graders took an exciting field trip to "The People’s House: A White House Experience" in Washington, D.C. This immersive museum, created by the White House Historical Association, brings the history of the Executive Mansion and its leaders to life through interactive exhibits, a full-scale replica of the Oval Office, and engaging historical displays.

Our Kindergarten through 6th-grade students explore presidential history throughout the year as part of their curriculum. From learning about Presidents’ Day in Kindergarten, to studying the job of the President in 2nd grade, and examining Abraham Lincoln’s leadership during the Civil War in 5th grade, our students develop a deeper understanding of the presidency and its influence on our nation.

We appreciate our teachers for making history come alive and encourage families to continue these discussions at home—fostering an understanding of leadership, civic responsibility, and the lasting impact of our nation’s presidents!

 

Celebrating Black History at WMES

Throughout February, our students have been engaging in meaningful learning experiences celebrating Black history, culture, and contributions. A special thank you to our art teachers and wellness committee for organizing the Black History Cultures & Contributions in Color Gallery. This student artwork showcase beautifully highlights Black history through creativity and learning.

📅 Final Gallery Viewing: The exhibit will remain open for classes and families through February 28. We encourage you to ask your child about their favorite pieces!

Supporting Positive Student Behavior

At WMES, we are committed to creating a positive and structured learning environment for all students. Our school-wide behavior framework ensures that students feel safe, supported, and empowered to make positive choices. Key components include:

✔ Responsive Classroom (RC) practices

✔ Consistent routines and procedures in every classroom

✔ Zones of Regulation to help students manage emotions

✔ Counseling lessons & mediation supports

✔ Supervision and structured recess zones for student safety

While we strive to teach and reinforce positive behaviors, we also recognize that students will sometimes make mistakes. When this happens, we focus on fair, supportive, and restorative consequences that provide clear boundaries while helping students grow from their experiences. Thank you for your continued support in reinforcing these expectations at home!

Bus Safety Drill – February 27

🚍 Student safety is our top priority. On Tuesday, February 27, we will conduct a bus safety drill during morning arrival. This drill ensures that all students are familiar with proper bus procedures and emergency protocols. Please remind your child to listen carefully and follow instructions during the drill.

Staffing Updates & Job Fair

We are already planning for a strong start to the 2025-2026 school year! Our administrative team is committed to ensuring that WMES is fully staffed with high-quality educators who reflect and support our diverse school community.

📢 Do you know an outstanding teacher looking for a new opportunity? Our team will be attending the FCPS Instructional Job Fair on March 8 to recruit top talent. If you know a great educator interested in joining the WMES family, please encourage them to apply!

Ramadan Considerations (March 1-30)

As Ramadan approaches, we want to be mindful of the needs of our Muslim students and families. Ramadan is a sacred time marked by prayer, reflection, and fasting from dawn to sunset. We recognize that this may impact students' energy levels and participation in certain activities.

💡 If your child will be fasting and requires accommodations during lunch, PE, or other activities, please reach out to us. We are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all students.

Upcoming Student Experience Survey

Our school will participate in the FCPS Student Experience Survey. This survey will gather important feedback from students about their school experiences to help FCPS make meaningful improvements.

All students in grades 3-6, except those who have opted out, will receive a link to the survey in their FCPS email on today. We will administer the survey during the school day between Monday, February 24, and Friday, March 7. Any student may take the survey at home, if they are unable to take the survey during the school day. You will receive a communication with details on how to preview the survey and opt your child out, if you choose. 

We believe it's important to hear from our students about what we're doing well and where we can improve. This work also aligns with the five equity commitments in FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan, which focus on amplifying student voice and experiences as we work toward meeting plan goals.

Chronic Absenteeism Rate

Above is our Chronic Absenteeism rate as of February 25, 2025.  Help us stay under 15% for Chronic Absenteeism!  Staying under 15% is part of the VDOE school accreditation requirement.

QUICK LINKS 

9100 Cherrytree Drive, Alexandria, VA 22309 |  Main Phone: 703.619-2500  Attendance: 703.619.2525 | Web | Twitter

Washington Mill

GovDelivery3 weeks 1 day ago

Dear Families,

We’re excited to share that the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) has approved a new option for students who will be fasting during the school day from February 28 to March 28, 2025. Students can now request take-home breakfast and lunch meal kits to ensure they have nutritious meals available outside of school hours.

How It Works:

  • Students can receive one breakfast and one lunch kit per day (if they do not purchase a meal at school that day).
  • Meals must be picked up by students at the end of the school day—adults cannot collect them.
  • Meal kits will be kept cold and should be heated at home.

How to Request Meal Kits:

Parents/guardians must submit a weekly request form on the FCPS Food & Nutrition Services (FNS) website by the following deadlines:

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

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

Action Needed:

If your child will be fasting and would like to receive meal kits, please visit the FNS website to complete the request form before the deadlines. All information about the program is available on the website.

Thank you for your support in ensuring all students have access to healthy meals!

Upcoming Student Experience Survey

Our school will participate in the FCPS Student Experience Survey. This survey will gather important feedback from students about their school experiences to help FCPS make meaningful improvements.

All students in grades 3-6, except those who have opted out, will receive a link to the survey in their FCPS email on February 24. We will administer the survey during the school day between Monday, February 24, and Friday, March 7. Any student may take the survey at home, if they are unable to take the survey during the school day. You will receive a communication with details on how to preview the survey and opt your child out, if you choose. 

We believe it's important to hear from our students about what we're doing well and where we can improve. This work also aligns with the five equity commitments in FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan, which focus on amplifying student voice and experiences as we work toward meeting plan goals.

Chronic Absenteeism Rate

Above is our Chronic Absenteeism rate as of February 18, 2025.  Help us stay under 15% for Chronic Absenteeism!  Staying under 15% is part of the VDOE school accreditation requirement.

QUICK LINKS 

9100 Cherrytree Drive, Alexandria, VA 22309 |  Main Phone: 703.619-2500  Attendance: 703.619.2525 | Web | Twitter

Washington Mill

GovDelivery1 month ago
Principal Message

Dear Washington Mill Families,

As we reach the midpoint of the school year, it’s important to take time to review the Student Rights & Responsibilities (SR&R), as defined by Fairfax County Public Schools. This review helps ensure that all students understand their rights, responsibilities, and the expectations that support a safe and positive school environment.

Beginning last week, we launched a series of video messages during our school news show to guide a midyear SR&R review. Each day, students in grades K-6 will watch a video focusing on a different SR&R topic, followed by discussions in their morning meeting circles. These topics include:

  • Your Rights and Responsibilities
  • Attendance
  • Bullying and Harassment
  • Technology Use and Cell Phone Policy
  • Social Media and Mental Wellness
  • Dress Code

At Washington Mill, we apply these expectations through our Behavior Support Framework, which reflects our commitment to proactive support, safety, and restorative practices. Our framework emphasizes helping students grow through structured routines, social-emotional learning, and positive behavior strategies. Key elements of our approach include:

  • Proactive measures such as Responsive Classroom practices, counseling lessons, and consistent routines
  • Safety measures through supervision, duty stations, and established procedures
  • Consequences and accountability to help students learn from their actions
  • Restorative practices, reteaching, and counseling to support growth and positive choices

We believe that by reinforcing these strategies and expectations, we can continue to create a school environment where all students feel supported, respected, and empowered to thrive. We encourage you to discuss these topics with your child to help reinforce the importance of meeting both their rights and responsibilities at school.

Thank you for your partnership and continued support in your child’s success!

Sincerely, Brad Bennink Principal, Washington Mill Elementary School

Upcoming Student Experience Survey

Our school will participate in the FCPS Student Experience Survey. This survey will gather important feedback from students about their school experiences to help FCPS make meaningful improvements.

All students in grades 3-6, except those who have opted out, will receive a link to the survey in their FCPS email on February 24. We will administer the survey during the school day between Monday, February 24, and Friday, March 7. Any student may take the survey at home, if they are unable to take the survey during the school day. You will receive a communication with details on how to preview the survey and opt your child out, if you choose. 

We believe it's important to hear from our students about what we're doing well and where we can improve. This work also aligns with the five equity commitments in FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan, which focus on amplifying student voice and experiences as we work toward meeting plan goals.

Chronic Absenteeism Rate

Above is our Chronic Absenteeism rate as of February 10, 2025.  Help us stay under 15% for Chronic Absenteeism!  Staying under 15% is part of the VDOE school accreditation requirement.

QUICK LINKS 

9100 Cherrytree Drive, Alexandria, VA 22309 |  Main Phone: 703.619-2500  Attendance: 703.619.2525 | Web | Twitter

Washington Mill

GovDelivery1 month 1 week ago
Upcoming Student Experience Survey

Our school will participate in the FCPS Student Experience Survey. This survey will gather important feedback from students about their school experiences to help FCPS make meaningful improvements.

All students in grades 3-6, except those who have opted out, will receive a link to the survey in their FCPS email on February 24. We will administer the survey during the school day between Monday, February 24, and Friday, March 7. Any student may take the survey at home, if they are unable to take the survey during the school day. You will receive a communication with details on how to preview the survey and opt your child out, if you choose. 

We believe it's important to hear from our students about what we're doing well and where we can improve. This work also aligns with the five equity commitments in FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan, which focus on amplifying student voice and experiences as we work toward meeting plan goals.

Above is our Chronic Absenteeism rate as of February 3, 2025.  Help us stay under 15% for Chronic Absenteeism!  Staying under 15% is part of the VDOE school accreditation requirement.

QUICK LINKS 

9100 Cherrytree Drive, Alexandria, VA 22309 |  Main Phone: 703.619-2500  Attendance: 703.619.2525 | Web | Twitter

Washington Mill

GovDelivery1 month 2 weeks ago
Upcoming Student Experience Survey

Our school will participate in the FCPS Student Experience Survey. This survey will gather important feedback from students about their school experiences to help FCPS make meaningful improvements.

All students in grades 3-6, except those who have opted out, will receive a link to the survey in their FCPS email on February 24. We will administer the survey during the school day between Monday, February 24, and Friday, March 7. Any student may take the survey at home, if they are unable to take the survey during the school day. You will receive a communication with details on how to preview the survey and opt your child out, if you choose. 

We believe it's important to hear from our students about what we're doing well and where we can improve. This work also aligns with the five equity commitments in FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan, which focus on amplifying student voice and experiences as we work toward meeting plan goals.

Above is our Chronic Absenteeism rate as of January 28, 2025.  Help us stay under 15% for Chronic Absenteeism!  Staying under 15% is part of the VDOE school accreditation requirement.

QUICK LINKS 

9100 Cherrytree Drive, Alexandria, VA 22309 |  Main Phone: 703.619-2500  Attendance: 703.619.2525 | Web | Twitter

Washington Mill

GovDelivery1 month 3 weeks ago

Principal’s Message

Dear Families,

Last week, we successfully completed our first full week back from winter break and got right back to business! At school, students revisited classroom routines, procedures, and their learning goals. On Wednesday, we held both a staff meeting and a PTA meeting, resuming our focus on professional learning for our team and strengthening our partnerships with you, our families.

It was also an exciting week for our students! Our 6th graders visited Whitman Middle School to get a glimpse of what their next step will look like, and parents had the opportunity to attend a transition support meeting that evening. Meanwhile, our 5th graders enjoyed a wonderful trip to the Baltimore Aquarium, where they made meaningful connections to their classroom learning.

Looking ahead, we are preparing for another two-hour delay tomorrow. While the delay gives us all a little extra time, rest assured that we remain focused and on track with our learning. With the end of the second quarter just around the corner, we’re ready to make the most of every moment in the days ahead.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support as we work together to create a great learning environment for our students.

Warm regards,

Brad Bennink

Principal

 

Thank you all!  The Kiss & Ride process has been going really well!  Please continue with the following below:

To ensure a safe and efficient Kiss & Ride experience for everyone, we’d like to remind families of a few important guidelines:

  • Be Ready: Students should be ready to exit the car when you arrive at the drop-off area, with jackets on and backpacks in hand.
  • Stay in Your Vehicle: Please remain in your car and allow staff to assist your child out of the car on the passenger (right) side.
  • Quick Goodbyes: Say goodbyes before entering the Kiss & Ride line to avoid delays.
  • No Exiting on the Left Side: For safety, children should exit only on the passenger (right) side of the vehicle.
  • Parking Options: If your child needs additional assistance, please park in a designated area and walk them to the sidewalk.

Thank you for your cooperation in helping us keep Kiss & Ride safe and running smoothly for all families.

 

Above is our Chronic Absenteeism rate as of January 20, 2025.  Help us stay under 15% for Chronic Absenteeism!  Staying under 15% is part of the VDOE school accreditation requirement.

QUICK LINKS 

9100 Cherrytree Drive, Alexandria, VA 22309 |  Main Phone: 703.619-2500  Attendance: 703.619.2525 | Web | Twitter

Washington Mill

GovDelivery2 months 3 weeks ago

Principal’s Message

Dear Washington Mill Families,

As we approach the holiday season and the final week of school before winter break, I want to take a moment to thank you for your continued support and partnership. Together, we’ve created a thriving community where students grow, achieve, and shine.

This week, we have several wonderful opportunities to come together as a school community, celebrate the season, and showcase the amazing talents of our students:

  • Our Winter Concert will feature performances by our Chorus, Band, and Strings students.
  • PTA Bingo Night promises to be an evening of fun and connection for families.
  • Holiday Spirit Week will spread cheer and joy throughout our school.

Flyers with more details about these events are included below. I hope you’ll join us for these celebrations and make lasting memories with our school family.

The holiday season is a time for reflection, gratitude, and connection, and I wish all of you a joyful and peaceful break filled with warmth and togetherness. We look forward to starting 2025 with renewed energy and a commitment to helping every child succeed.

Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!

Warmly,

Brad Bennink

Principal

Washington Mill Elementary

 

Kiss & Ride Reminders for Safety and Efficiency

To ensure a safe and efficient Kiss & Ride experience for everyone, we’d like to remind families of a few important guidelines:

  • Be Ready: Students should be ready to exit the car when you arrive at the drop-off area, with jackets on and backpacks in hand.
  • Stay in Your Vehicle: Please remain in your car and allow staff to assist your child out of the car on the passenger (right) side.
  • Quick Goodbyes: Say goodbyes before entering the Kiss & Ride line to avoid delays.
  • No Exiting on the Left Side: For safety, children should exit only on the passenger (right) side of the vehicle.
  • Parking Options: If your child needs additional assistance, please park in a designated area and walk them to the sidewalk.

 

Thank you for your cooperation in helping us keep Kiss & Ride safe and running smoothly for all families.

 

Above is our Chronic Absenteeism rate as of December 16, 2024.  Help us stay under 15% for Chronic Absenteeism!  Staying under 15% is part of the VDOE school accreditation requirement.

QUICK LINKS 

9100 Cherrytree Drive, Alexandria, VA 22309 |  Main Phone: 703.619-2500  Attendance: 703.619.2525 | Web | Twitter

Washington Mill

GovDelivery3 months ago

Dear Parents,

With the holiday season around the corner, let's unite to make sure our students shine! The weeks surrounding winter break often see more empty seats, but this year, let's give our students the magic of education and nurture a rock-solid attendance habit.

Visit Attendance Resources and Support for more attendance insights and support – because every day is a step toward a brighter tomorrow!

Let's get your child to class when the bell rings. Every school day is a unique opportunity for students to learn, connect, and grow. The life skills children need to get ready for school are the same life skills that will help them reach graduation and beyond!

A big thank you to:

  • 🌟 Students and families who show up every day, even when it's busy.
  • 👩‍🏫 Teachers who create a welcoming and safe haven for learning.
  • 👨‍💼 Administrators who provide a safe and engaging learning environment.
  • 👏 Bus drivers, support staff, and volunteers who lend a helping hand to our students.

Enjoy your well-deserved break. If you need support, reach out to your school counselor, family liaison, or school social worker for a helping hand. If your child is not feeling well, please view the Can My Child Go to School? webpage.

Mark your calendars: School will resume on January 6, 2025. We can't wait to see those smiling faces back in action!

For more visit our attendance webpage. Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow! 📚

Sincerely,

Brad Bennink

 

 

Above is our Chronic Absenteeism rate as of December 6, 2024.  Help us stay under 15% for Chronic Absenteeism!  Staying under 15% is part of the VDOE school accreditation requirement.

Reminder: Full-Time AAP Referrals due December 15, 2024

Parents/guardians of students in Grades 2-7 who would like their student to be considered for Full-Time advanced academic programs may submit the AAP Full-Time Referral Form to Jennifer Morris at [email protected] no later than December 15, 2024. Parents are highly encouraged to complete and submit the Optional Parent Questionnaire as well.

 

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

 

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

 

Referrals for Subject-Specific and Part-Time AAP are screened at the local school. If you miss the December 15th deadline, your student can still be screened for Subject-Specific AAP or Part-Time AAP for the remainder of the year and submit a referral for Full-Time AAP next fall. 

 

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

 

Boundary Review Community Meetings provide a great opportunity for families, staff, and community members to share their thoughts and questions, and learn more about the boundary review process. 

The Region 3 meeting will be held on Monday, December 9, 6:30-8 p.m., at Mount Vernon High School in the cafeteria. Visit the Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage to register or view other community meeting dates. Also, sign up to receive our School Boundary Review newsletter. 

QUICK LINKS 

9100 Cherrytree Drive, Alexandria, VA 22309 |  Main Phone: 703.619-2500  Attendance: 703.619.2525 | Web | Twitter

Washington Mill

GovDelivery3 months 1 week ago
Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!

We especially appreciate everyone’s efforts to avoid taking extra days off during the upcoming holidays. Just a few missed days here and there, even if they’re excused absences, can add up to too much lost learning time and leave your child behind in school. This is as true in kindergarten as it is in high school.

The best gift you can give your child is a good education. And the best place to get that education is in school. Every day. On time. Visit our website for more attendance resources.

Above is our Chronic Absenteeism rate as of December 2, 2024.  Help us stay under 15% for Chronic Absenteeism!  Staying under 15% is part of the VDOE school accreditation requirement.

Reminder: Full-Time AAP Referrals due December 15, 2024

Parents/guardians of students in Grades 2-7 who would like their student to be considered for Full-Time advanced academic programs may submit the AAP Full-Time Referral Form to Jennifer Morris at [email protected] no later than December 15, 2024. Parents are highly encouraged to complete and submit the Optional Parent Questionnaire as well.

 

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

 

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

 

Referrals for Subject-Specific and Part-Time AAP are screened at the local school. If you miss the December 15th deadline, your student can still be screened for Subject-Specific AAP or Part-Time AAP for the remainder of the year and submit a referral for Full-Time AAP next fall. 

 

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

 

QUICK LINKS 

9100 Cherrytree Drive, Alexandria, VA 22309 |  Main Phone: 703.619-2500  Attendance: 703.619.2525 | Web | Twitter

Washington Mill

GovDelivery3 months 2 weeks ago

Principal Message:

Dear Washington Mill Families,

As we prepare to break for the Thanksgiving holiday, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to each of you for being an essential part of our school community. Your support, partnership, and commitment to your children’s education make Washington Mill a truly special place.

Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on the many blessings in our lives. Here at Washington Mill, I’m thankful for our dedicated teachers and staff who nurture and inspire our students every day, for our incredible students who bring energy and joy to our halls, and for you, our families, who contribute so much to our school’s success.

I hope this holiday brings you moments of rest, joy, and togetherness with your loved ones. Whether you're traveling, hosting, or simply enjoying quiet time at home, may your days be filled with gratitude and connection.

We look forward to welcoming everyone back on Monday refreshed and ready to continue a wonderful school year.

Wishing you and your family a safe, happy, and peaceful Thanksgiving!

Warm regards,

Brad Bennink, Principal

Washington Mill Elementary

 

Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!

We especially appreciate everyone’s efforts to avoid taking extra days off during the upcoming holidays. Just a few missed days here and there, even if they’re excused absences, can add up to too much lost learning time and leave your child behind in school. This is as true in kindergarten as it is in high school.

The best gift you can give your child is a good education. And the best place to get that education is in school. Every day. On time. Visit our website for more attendance resources.

Reminder: Full-Time AAP Referrals due December 15, 2024

Parents/guardians of students in Grades 2-7 who would like their student to be considered for Full-Time advanced academic programs may submit the AAP Full-Time Referral Form to Jennifer Morris at [email protected] no later than December 15, 2024. Parents are highly encouraged to complete and submit the Optional Parent Questionnaire as well.

 

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

 

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

 

Referrals for Subject-Specific and Part-Time AAP are screened at the local school. If you miss the December 15th deadline, your student can still be screened for Subject-Specific AAP or Part-Time AAP for the remainder of the year and submit a referral for Full-Time AAP next fall. 

 

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

 

QUICK LINKS 

9100 Cherrytree Drive, Alexandria, VA 22309 |  Main Phone: 703.619-2500  Attendance: 703.619.2525 | Web | Twitter