FCPS

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 

• Health and Safety Guidance Webpage
• Washington Mills Website
• Positivity Project
• Report Absences
• Student Links 
• Join the PTA

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

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 

• Health and Safety Guidance Webpage
• Washington Mills Website
• Positivity Project
• Report Absences
• Student Links 
• Join the PTA

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

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 

• Health and Safety Guidance Webpage
• Washington Mills Website
• Positivity Project
• Report Absences
• Student Links 
• Join the PTA

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

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 

• Health and Safety Guidance Webpage
• Washington Mills Website
• Positivity Project
• Report Absences
• Student Links 
• Join the PTA

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

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 

• Health and Safety Guidance Webpage
• Washington Mills Website
• Positivity Project
• Report Absences
• Student Links 
• Join the PTA

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

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 

• Health and Safety Guidance Webpage
• Washington Mills Website
• Positivity Project
• Report Absences
• Student Links 
• Join the PTA

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

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 

• Health and Safety Guidance Webpage
• Washington Mills Website
• Positivity Project
• Report Absences
• Student Links 
• Join the PTA

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

Message from the Principal

Dear Washington Mill Families,

I hope this message finds you well as we wrap up the first quarter of the school year. Here are a few important updates and reminders for our community:

End of Quarter Parent Conferences Thank you to all the families who connected with our teachers to discuss your child’s first-quarter progress. If you have not yet had your conference, it’s not too late! Please reach out to your child’s teacher to schedule a meeting. Conferences can be conducted in person, over the phone, or via Zoom to accommodate your needs.

Veterans Day Breakfast We had a wonderful Veterans Day Breakfast on Friday, November 8, honoring our military families and students. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended and to those who serve or have served our country.

Welcome to Ms. Jasmine Piernas Please join me in welcoming Ms. Jasmine Piernas, our new assistant principal! Ms. Piernas began her role on Tuesday, November 12, and is already making connections with students by visiting classrooms and building relationships. She will also introduce herself at this week’s PTA meeting. Please consider attending to meet her and to support the important work of our PTA.

Family Thanksgiving Luncheon We are excited to host our Family Thanksgiving Luncheon this Thursday, November 21. This is always a special event that brings our community together in a spirit of gratitude. Please join your child during their lunchtime for this memorable celebration.

Science Olympiad Highlights Our students represented Washington Mill Elementary proudly at the Science Olympiad competition this past Saturday, November 16!

Grade 4 Participants: Charlotte Albert, Micah Burkes, Faye Bias, Matthew Johnson, Wyatt Rogers, Bailey Rogers, Rocco Smirne

Grade 5 Participants: Max Delgado, Bennett Chielens, Jacqueline Fraley, Annabelle Fraley, Camshyea Rankie, Lachlan Reese, Ryan Knox, Blen Michael, Stephany Palacios Guzman, Katherine Thompson

A special congratulations to Bailey Rogers and Matthew Johnson, who earned 5th place medals in Metric Mastery! Let’s give all our participants a big round of applause for their dedication and success in exploring the wonders of science! 🧪✨

 

Boundary Review Community Meeting FCPS is conducting a comprehensive boundary review, and community meetings are being held in each of the division’s six regions. Our regional meeting will take place on Monday, December 9, from 6:30-8 p.m. at Mount Vernon High School Cafeteria.

Please register in advance by clicking on the date. Language interpretation will be available. If you cannot attend, you can view the full list of meetings on the Comprehensive School Boundary Review webpage.

Spanish Translation:

Reunión Comunitaria de Revisión de Límites Las reuniones comunitarias sobre la Revisión de Límites de FCPS se llevarán a cabo en cada una de las seis regiones de la división. Le animamos a asistir a la reunión en nuestra región, que tendrá lugar el Lunes, 9 de diciembre, de 6:30-8 p.m. en la Cafetería de la Escuela Secundaria de Mount Vernon.

Por favor, inscríbase con antelación haciendo clic en la fecha. Habrá servicio de interpretación. Si no puede asistir en esta fecha, consulte la lista completa de reuniones en el sitio web de la Revisión integral de límites escolares.

Thank you for your continued support in making Washington Mill Elementary a wonderful community for all our students.

 

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

 IMPORTANT INFO

Trunk or Treat Volunteers

Trunk or Treat is October 24th! The WMES PTA is looking forward to a festive fall evening with music, treats, raffle prizes, photo booth, food and more! Volunteer opportunities are available.  Click the link below.

https://signup.com/mobileweb/2.0/vspot.html?activitykey=1012558188027#my_spots_page

Elementary School Clinics

The Fairfax County Health Department will provide immunizations for FCPS elementary students on limited early release Mondays at their district offices. All school-required immunizations will be offered at no cost. Call 703-246-7100 to make your appointment.

🎤 Community Conversations with Superintendent Dr. Reid

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid invites you to share your questions or concerns regarding Fairfax County Public Schools. Your voice matters! Community Conversations will be held this Fall 6:30-7:30 p.m. on:

• Wednesday, October 30, at Herndon Middle 

Click the date above to register. Registration is not required but helps with planning. Additional registration links will be shared in next week’s This Week at FCPS. Childcare and interpretation services will be provided. Events are open to all. Find out about other opportunities to connect with Dr. Reid. 

 

🙋 Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!

The beginning of the school year is the best time to develop strong attendance habits! Students who attend school regularly are more likely to perform well in reading and math, develop strong social and emotional skills, and graduate from high school on time. Help prepare your child for future success. Visit FCPS’ Attendance webpage for tips and strategies. 

Book Fair is here! Students are excited! They may shop next week during their school library time or after school on Thursday from 5:00-7:00 PM. Students can purchase items with cash, checks made out to Washington Mill, or an eWallet. Please visit our website for more information: https://bookfairs.scholastic.com/bf/washingtonmillelemschool Please be aware that due to low cellular signal in the area, processing credit cards will be difficult, if you are shopping Thursday night you may want to bring cash or check. See you there!

OBSERVANCES

• Hispanic Heritage Month
• National School Principals Month
• Disability History and Awareness Month
• National School Lunch Week 
• Yom Kippur
• Indigenous Peoples Day

QUICK LINKS 

 

Health and Safety Guidance Webpage

Visit Washington Mills Website

Positivity Project

Report Absences

Student Links 

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