FCPS

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Weekly update for Dec. 20, 2024

 

Dear CES friends and families,

 

Wishing you and yours a wonderful winter break! During the next two weeks, the main office will have modified hours. Please email me at [email protected] with any questions you may have that require a response prior to students returning from break.

 

We will see all of our Cougars back here at school on Monday, January 6th, 2025. 

 

Take care,

 

Mike Astudillo

Proud Principal

Columbia Elementary School

PTA News & Notes

 

The PTA would like to thank everyone for their support this year. We hope you have a wonderful holiday and we look forward to seeing you after the break.

 

Fall Direct Donation Campaign

We are a third of the way to our goal! With increasing reliance on technology in schools for learning, it's more important than ever for our elementary students to learn fundamental typing skills to increase their digital literacy. The wonderful CES staff have requested support for a typing curriculum designed to increase typing proficiency for students in grades 3-5. We are hoping to raise $2,300 to purchase the Edclub typing program for three years that will allow Columbia teachers the ability to provide broad access to the program for their students. The campaign is now live and will run through January 15th. Please consider a contribution, any amount helps. Thank you!

Donations can be submitted several ways:

• Givebacks: https://app.givebacks.gives/typingclub/Campaign/Details
• Square: Click this link.
• Zelle: Use Email Address [email protected]
• Check: Please make check payable to Columbia PTA and mail to 6720 Alpine Drive, Annandale, VA 22003

New Partnership with Papa Johns

Don't feel like cooking dinner? Is it Thursday? You can now order pizza ANY THURSDAY from 11AM – 11PM from Papa Johns in Annandale for delivery or carryout (carryout until 10 PM). Families will receive 40 percent off their entire order and 10 percent of their order goes to the PTA. This opportunity will last until the end of the school year. Online code “CES4010” - this code will also be accepted by phone in case of issues with the website.

 

🎉Columbia Awarded Educate Fairfax Grant! 🎉

 

Congratulations to Srta. Carly Alba for securing the "Building Bridges: Fostering STEAM and FLES Through LEGO® Education" grant from Educate Fairfax! Visit our website to learn more about this exciting project!  This generous grant will allow Srta. Alba to provide our students with even more enriching learning experiences in STEAM and FLES!

Specials Spotlight Art with Mrs. McKenna

 

Happy Holidays, CES Families! Things have been busy in the art room. Thank you to everyone who has recycled those bubble wrap mailers arriving at your home by donating them to the art room. Please keep sending them in!  For the start of the 2nd quarter your students have been working on their projects for our Art to Remember fundraiser. More information and order forms to purchase items with your child’s art on them will be sent home in March.

 

• Kindergarteners have been learning about different kinds of lines and patterns. In January we’ll be talking about our favorite animals and introducing architecture.
• 1st graders have been creating artworks about birds of Virginia and will be making a 3-D animal mask.
• In 2nd grade we’re creating a collage of a community celebration and will be starting some animal projects in late January.
• Our 3rd graders having been working on an abstracted collage of foods and creating artworks with symmetry. As part of the Emerging Visions program, we will have a field trip to an art gallery in February and then create our own artworks to possibly be included in an exhibition this June.
• 4th graders have been learning about abstraction in art. In January we will be starting a stitchery unit. I will be reaching out soon for volunteers who might be willing to help with stitchery.
• In 5thgrade we’ve been learning about typography and Zentangle designs and will be starting a fun ceramic project in January.

🐾Save the Date 🐾

 

Holidays - Winter Break

December 23 - January 5

 

Holiday

January 20

 

Parent Teacher Association (PTA) Meeting

January 21

 

Student Holiday

January 29

 

3 Hour Early Release - 1:05 p.m. Dismissal

February 10

 

Parent Teacher Association (PTA) Meeting

February 18

 

STEAM Night

February 20

6720 Alpine Drive, Annandale, VA 22003  | Main Office: 703-916-2500
Attendance: 703-916-2525 | Web | Twitter

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PTA Family Night Out Tonight!

 

6720 Alpine Drive, Annandale, VA 22003  | Main Office: 703-916-2500
Attendance: 703-916-2525 | Web | Twitter

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Weekly update for Dec. 13, 2024

 

Dear CES friends and families:

 

It has been another great week at Columbia. I wanted to take a moment and share my sincere appreciation to the staff, students, and families that came together this week for our annual "Donuts with Grown-ups" event. It is always one of the highlights of the school year when we get to see so many families, staff, and students together here at school. Next week, which is the last week before winter break, we are looking forward to the Winter Spirit Week! Please see below for details to help your student join in the fun.

 

Have a wonderful weekend!

 

Take care,

 

Mike Astudillo

Proud Principal

Columbia Elementary School

 

Full Time Advanced Academics Referral Deadline Reminder:

 

Parents/guardians of Columbia Elementary students in Grades 2-5 who would like their student to be considered for Full-Time advanced academic programs may submit the AAP Full-Time Referral Form to Michelle Sansone [email protected] no later than December 15, 2024. 

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

PTA News & Notes

 

Fall Direct Donation Campaign

With increasing reliance on technology in schools for learning, it's more important than ever for our elementary students to learn fundamental typing skills to increase their digital literacy. The wonderful CES staff have requested support for a typing curriculum designed to increase typing proficiency for students in grades 3-5. The PTA is launching a fundraising campaign with a goal of raising $2,300 to purchase the Edclub Typing Program for three years that will allow Columbia teachers the ability to provide broad access to the program for their students. The campaign is now live and will run through January 15th.

 Please join us and consider making a tax-deductible donation. Donations can be submitted several ways:

• Givebacks: https://app.givebacks.gives/typingclub/Campaign/Details
• Square: Click this link.
• Zelle: Use Email Address [email protected]
• Check: Please make check payable to Columbia PTA and mail to 6720 Alpine Drive, Annandale, VA 22003

New Partnership with Papa Johns

We are excited to announce a new partnership with Papa Johns in Annandale. You can now order pizza ANY THURSDAY from 11AM – 11PM for delivery or carryout (carryout until 10 PM). Families will receive 40 percent off their entire order and 10 percent of their order goes to the PTA. This opportunity will last until the end of the school year. Online code “CES4010” - this code will also be accepted by phone in case of issues with the website.

 

Upcoming Family Night Out

• December 18th at Chipotle (Landmark location from 4PM - 8PM) 

News from George Mason Regional Library

 

Winter Reading Program – “Bundle Up With Books” December 1, 2024 – January 1, 2025. Cozy up with a good book (or a lot of books) and earn a prize!

 

New Director - Eric Carzon has been appointed director of Fairfax County Public Library (FCPL), effective Monday, Nov. 4. Carzon brings over 27 years of experience in library management, having most recently served as regional manager for Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL)

 Columbia Elementary FCPS Honors Awards

Emma Kremer, Sarah Boudart, Mhret Wondmagegne

Columbia Elementary is proud to congratulate Sarah Boudart, Emma Kremer, and Mhret Wondmagegne who were nominated and selected for Columbia Elementary's 2024-2025 Outstanding Employee Awards, part of the FCPS Outstanding Employee Awards Program for 2024-2025 school year.

• Emma Kremer - Outstanding Teacher
  • Read all about Ms. Kremer
• Sarah Boudart - Outstanding Leader
  • Read all about Ms. Boudart
• Mhret Wondmagegne - Outstanding New Teacher
  • Read all about Miss Wondmagegne

Specials Spotlight Music with Mrs. Eggleton

 

Kindergarten, 1st, and 2nd graders are practicing steady beats with body percussion and instruments. Singing seasonal songs and performing rhymes and poems with non-pitched percussion instruments. We love the triangles, hand drums, and maracas. Our composer for this quarter is Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. We love keeping the steady beat to the “March” from the ballet “The Nutcracker” composed by Tchaikovsky. 

3rd, 4th, and 5th graders are listening to and describing music using music terms and learning to identify traditional music symbols and terms.  Our composer of the quarter is Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. We are working in small groups using movement words to perform with the “March” from The Nutcracker. Students will use scarves, ribbons and plastic candy canes to showcase their composition. 

4th grade had the opportunity to go to the Kennedy Center to hear the National Symphony Orchestra.  They enjoyed seeing and hearing a performance in person.

Memories will be made as we celebrate with our school-wide winter sing along. 

Next week, December 16 - 20 is a Winter Spirit Week!

• Monday - Rainbow Day!
  • Pre-K & Kindergarten: Red
  • 1st Grade: Yellow
  • 2nd Grade: Purple
  • 3rd Grade: Green
  • 4th Grade: Orange
  • 5th Grade: Blue
• Tuesday: Do You Want to Build a Snowman?
  • Wear snow day/frozen themed spirit wear. Dress up as a snowman! Wear white and add geometric shapes to create a snowman.
• Wednesday: Columbia Spirit Wear Day
• Thursday: Tacky Winter Sweater Day
• Friday: Pajama Day

🐾Save the Date 🐾

 

Holidays - Winter Break

December 23 - January 5

 

Holiday

January 20

 

Parent Teacher Association (PTA) Meeting

January 21

 

Student Holiday

January 29

 

3 Hour Early Release - 1:05 p.m. Dismissal

February 10

 

Parent Teacher Association (PTA) Meeting

February 18

 

STEAM Night

February 20

6720 Alpine Drive, Annandale, VA 22003  | Main Office: 703-916-2500
Attendance: 703-916-2525 | Web | Twitter

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Weekly update for December 6, 2024

 

Dear CES friends and families:

 

We have had another great week at Columbia! On Monday, the wonderful PTA provided a Holiday Sweet Shoppe for CES faculty and staff. We were so appreciative and grateful to have a warm welcome back to school after the Thanksgiving break. Thank you to the PTA for taking such great care of the adults at CES. #SmallSchoolBigHeart

 

On Wednesday of this week, our 5th graders went on a field trip to visit the U.S. Capitol. Many of us, myself included, often take for granted how close we are to historically important landmarks that are only a short drive away. Students learned about the legislative branch of government and tied their hands-on tour and experience with social studies standards in the classroom. 

 

Finally, earlier today our 1st graders had a terrific time vising the Lego Discovery Center in Springfield as they learned through hands-on experiments about force and motion in science.

 

Next week, our monthly PTA meeting has been canceled. We will meet again in January. Looking forward to seeing you and your family at our annual Donuts with Grown-ups event on Thursday/Friday of next week. See below for more details.

 

I hope you have a wonderful weekend!

 

Take care,

 

Mike Astudillo

Proud Principal

Columbia Elementary School

 

  Donuts with Grown-Ups

 

It’s almost time for Donuts with Grown-Ups! Families are invited to come enjoy donuts, coffee, and conversation with their children. The event will be held on Thursday, December 12th at 8:30am-9:00am for children with last names starting with A-L and Friday, December 13th at 8:30am-9:00am for children with last names starting with M-Z. Please RSVP by Tuesday, December 10th by returning the Donuts with Grown-Ups sign up form to your child's teacher or emailing your child’s teacher. We are asking for donations by grade level. Suggested donations: K-3rd: Donuts; 4th & 5th: individually packaged drinks (i.e., juice boxes, small bottles of water).

  PTA News & Notes

Holiday Sweet Shop

A huge thank you to everyone who baked and brought items in for the holiday sweet shop. The teachers felt the love from our parent community. THANK YOU!

 

Fall Direct Donation Campaign

With increasing reliance on technology in schools for learning, it's more important than ever for our elementary students to learn fundamental typing skills to increase their digital literacy. The wonderful CES staff have requested support for a typing curriculum designed to increase typing proficiency for students in grades 3-5. The PTA is launching a fundraising campaign with a goal of raising $2,300 to purchase the Edclub Typing Program for three years that will allow Columbia teachers the ability to provide broad access to the program for their students. The campaign is now live and will run through January 15th.

Please join us and consider making a tax-deductible donation. Donations can be submitted several ways:

• Givebacks: https://app.givebacks.gives/typingclub/Campaign/Details
• Square: Click this link.
• Zelle: Use Email Address [email protected]
• Check: Please make check payable to Columbia PTA and mail to 6720 Alpine Drive, Annandale, VA 22003

New Partnership with Papa Johns

We are excited to announce a new partnership with Papa Johns in Annandale. You can now order pizza ANY THURSDAY from 11AM – 11PM for delivery or carryout (carryout until 10 PM). Families will receive 40 percent off their entire order and 10 percent of their order goes to the PTA. This opportunity will last until the end of the school year. Online code “CES4010” - this code will also be accepted by phone in case of issues with the website.

 

  Federal Impact Aid Form reminder!

 

Return Your Federal Impact Aid Survey

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

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

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

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

Need to Register for ParentVUE? 

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

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

 

THANK YOU from the staff to the PTA and all those who donated to the Holiday Sweet Shoppe for staff this week!!!

  Boundary Review Community Meeting

Community meetings regarding FCPS’ comprehensive boundary review will take place in each of the division's six regions. You are encouraged to attend the meeting in our region, which will take place on Thursday, December 12, 6:45-8:15 p.m., at Annandale High School Cafeteria.

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

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

  Specials Spotlight P.E. with Mr. Kain

In P.E., students are working on gymnastics, dribbling, and nutrition.  Students in kindergarten, first grade, and second grade are currently learning animal walks, balances, and rolls.  Later in the quarter, they will learn how to dribble a basketball, the five food groups, and healthy food options in each group.  Third grade, fourth grade, and fifth grade students are currently working on designing their own gymnastics routines.  Later in the quarter, students will learn about muscles, bones, macronutrients, and recommended daily allowance (RDA).  Third grade will work on basketball skills.  Fourth and fifth grade students will use their basketball skills to design their own playbook and use it in a game. 

  🐾Save the Date 🐾 Donuts with Grownups - Last Names A-L

December 12

 

Donuts with Grownups - Last Names M-Z

December 13

 

Holidays - Winter Break

December 23 - January 5

6720 Alpine Drive, Annandale, VA 22003  | Main Office: 703-916-2500
Attendance: 703-916-2525 | Web | Twitter

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Weekly update for Nov. 26, 2024

 

Dear CES friends and families,

 

As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to each of you for your unwavering support and partnership throughout the first part of this school year. Your dedication to our students and the school community makes such a positive impact, and we truly appreciate everything you do.

 

Whether it's volunteering, attending events, or simply supporting your child’s learning journey at home, your involvement is invaluable. Together, we continue to create an environment where Columbia's students grow, learn, and thrive.

 

As a friendly reminder, today will be the last day of school this week in honor of the Thanksgiving holiday. I hope you have a wonderful rest of the week and we'll see all of our Cougars back at school on Monday, December 2.

 

Take care,

 

Mike Astudillo

Proud Principal

Columbia Elementary School

 

Hello Columbia Families:

This is a reminder that the deadline for all students in grades 2-5 to apply for full-time (formerly referred to as level IV) advanced academic services to begin at the start of the 25-26 school year is Sunday, December 15. This is a county provided date, there are not exceptions or extensions. Please plan ahead!

To initiate the screening process, please submit the AAP Full-Time Referral Form through email to Michelle Sansone [email protected] no later than December 15th or submit a hard copy to the front office by 4:30 pm on Friday, December 13th.  Please feel free to contact Michelle anytime with questions about the referral process.

Book Fair Success!

Thank you so much for all of your support of the Columbia Book Fair! Your purchases support the library and special programs for your students. Our Online Book Store will remain open throughout the year at: https://www.bookwormcentral.com/school-online-store.php Purchases made at this store will support Columbia Elementary!

🐾Save the Date 🐾   Holidays - Thanksgiving Break

November 27 - November 29

 

Donuts with Grownups - Last Names A-L

December 12

 

Donuts with Grownups - Last Names M-Z

December 13

 

Holidays - Winter Break

December 23 - January 5

6720 Alpine Drive, Annandale, VA 22003  | Main Office: 703-916-2500
Attendance: 703-916-2525 | Web | Twitter

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Weekly update for Nov. 22, 2024

 

Dear Columbia friends and families,

 

As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, I want to take a moment to express sincere gratitude for your partnership at home. When teachers and parents work together to support children’s success, it benefits everyone involved. We are truly thankful for your continued support of this small school, with a big heart.

 

I would also like to send along a friendly reminder that next week will only be a two-day school week, with school in session on Monday and Tuesday. Thanksgiving holiday will run from Wednesday, November 27th -  Friday, November 29th. 

 

I hope you have a wonderful weekend!

Take care,

 

Mike Astudillo

Proud Principal 

Columbia Elementary School

 

  Donuts with Grown-Ups coming soon

It’s almost time for Donuts with Grown-Ups! Families are invited to come enjoy donuts, coffee, and conversation with their children. The event will be held on Thursday, December 12th at 8:30am-9:00am for children with last names starting with A-L and Friday, December 13th at 8:30am-9:00am for children with last names starting with M-Z. Please RSVP by Tuesday, December 10th by returning the Donuts with Grown-Ups sign up form to your child's teacher or emailing your child’s teacher. We are asking for donations by grade level. Suggested donations: K-3rd: Donuts; 4th & 5th: individually packaged drinks (i.e., juice boxes, small bottles of water).

  PTA News & Notes

 

Holiday Sweet Shop

Please join us in thanking our wonderful Columbia teachers by donating to the upcoming “Holiday Sweet Shoppe” the Monday we are back from Thanksgiving (December 2nd). You can sign up to bake or bring a treat HERE.

 

Fall Direct Donation Campaign

The goal for our Fall direct donation campaign is to raise $2300 for a typing program for students (for three years). The campaign will begin November 21st and end on December 18th. Please consider donating through one of the ways below. Thank you!

• Square: Click this link.
• Zelle: Use Email Address [email protected]
• Check: Please make check payable to Columbia PTA and mail to 6720 Alpine Drive, Annandale, VA 22003

Together in Education/Harris Teeter Partnership

Together in Education is a program where Harris Teeter shoppers can link their account to Columbia Elementary School and the school will receive funds. You can link your card online HERE or visit the customer service counter at your local Harris Teeter and tell them that you would like to link your account. Columbia Elementary School’s code is 4295.

 

Join the PTA

Join us! We would like to invite you to join the PTA to become part of a collaborative community supporting events benefiting Columbia’s students, teachers and families. The PTA fundraises for school projects and provides volunteer support for beloved events such as BINGOween, the read-a-thon and other fun events throughout the year. You can join HERE and would love if you would consider sponsoring a teacher’s membership if you can. We welcome questions, please let us know if you would like to get more involved by emailing [email protected].

 

Upcoming Events

• Family night out – Five Guys (11/27)
• Holiday Sweet Shoppe (12/2)

  Handwashing Reminder!

As we transition into the fall and winter seasons, it's important to remind our students, staff, and families about the importance of practicing good hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette. These simple practices can significantly reduce the spread of germs, particularly during the upcoming holiday season when gatherings and travel increase.

Key Reminders:

• Wash Hands Frequently: Encourage students to wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating, after using the restroom, and after blowing their nose, coughing, or sneezing.  
• Use Hand Sanitizer: When soap and water are not readily available, provide access to alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol content.
• Cover Coughs and Sneezes: Remind students to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue or their elbow when coughing or sneezing. Dispose of tissues properly in a wastebasket and wash their hands.
• Avoid Touching Face: Discourage students from touching their eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. 

Hand Washing Prevents The Spread of the Flu 

Your Health Is In Your Hands with the Help from a Shark

  Holiday Support for CES Families

We are doing a grocery gift card drive for winter break! If you can participate, please donate $25 gift cards to Aldi or Giant and turn into the front office. We would love to reach our goal of collecting 50 gift cards! Please reach out to our counselor, Jenna Robinson Julian, with any questions. [email protected]

See below for ongoing food assistance:

• https://annandalechurch.com/foodministry
• https://www.stmatthewsumc.org/mission

  Social and Emotional Learning Screener Results Coming Soon

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

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

In early December, families will be able to view student SEL Screener results in SIS ParentVUE. For families who do not have an active ParentVUE account, results will be sent by mail.

Learn more about the screener on the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage. For help understanding your child’s results or ideas to support them at home, review the Family Guide or contact us. 

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

• Spanish:Los Resultados del Cuestionario de Aprendizaje Social y Emocional Estarán Pronto Disponibles

Una de las maneras en que FCPS apoya el bienestar mental de todos los estudiantes es a través del Cuestionario de Aprendizaje Social y Emocional (SEL). En octubre, estudiantes de los grados 3º a 12º tomaron este cuestionario, que proporciona información acerca de sus habilidades como lograr metas, manejar emociones, construir relaciones con adultos y compañeros, y tomar buenas decisiones. 

El cuestionario también ayuda a los estudiantes a evaluar los esfuerzos de su comunidad escolar para que se sientan valorados, incluidos y apoyados. Los datos del cuestionario se utilizan para crear aprendizaje, experiencias y entornos que permitan a los alumnos alcanzar el éxito.

A principios de diciembre, las familias podrán ver los resultados del Cuestionario SEL en SIS ParentVUE. Para las familias que no tienen una cuenta activa ParentVUE, los resultados serán enviados por correo.

Para más información sobre el examen por favor visite la página web del Cuestionario de Aprendizaje Social-Emocional (SEL). Si necesita ayuda para entender los resultados de su hijo o ideas para apoyarlo en casa, consulte la Guía para Familias o póngase en contacto con la escuela de su hijo.

Registrarse en ParentVUE

Aprenda a activar su cuenta ParentVUE, para que pueda acceder fácilmente a los resultados de su hijo y a otra información útil.

  🐾Save the Date 🐾   Holidays - Thanksgiving Break

November 27 - November 29

 

Donuts with Grownups - Last Names A-L

December 12

 

Donuts with Grownups - Last Names M-Z

December 13

 

Holidays - Winter Break

December 23 - January 5

6720 Alpine Drive, Annandale, VA 22003  | Main Office: 703-916-2500
Attendance: 703-916-2525 | Web | Twitter

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  November PTA Meeting tonight - Virtually at 7pm

 

This is a friendly reminder that the November PTA meeting will be held virtually only this month, at the link below, starting at 7pm this evening. 

 

Join the CES PTA Zoom Meeting

https://myfcpsk12.zoom.us/j/91903873132

Meeting ID: 919 0387 3132

One tap mobile

+13092053325,,91903873132# US

6720 Alpine Drive, Annandale, VA 22003  | Main Office: 703-916-2500
Attendance: 703-916-2525 | Web | Twitter

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

Weekly update for Nov. 15, 2024

 

Dear Columbia friends and families,

 

It has been another great week here at CES and it's hard to believe we are half-way through the month of November. Please remember that this upcoming Monday is 3-hour early release day and we will have dismissal at 1:05pm.

 

I hope you have a wonderful weekend!

 

Take care,

 

Mike Astudillo

Proud Principal

Columbia Elementary School

 

PTA News & Notes

Holiday Sweet Shop

Please join us in thanking our wonderful Columbia teachers by donating to the upcoming “Holiday Sweet Shoppe” the Monday we are back from Thanksgiving (December 2nd). You can sign up to bake or bring a treat HERE.

 

PTA Meetings

Our next meeting will be Tuesday, November 19h at 7 PM and it will ONLY be held virtually through Zoom (info below). All participants will be entered into a raffle for a book fair gift card which will be drawn at the end of the meeting.  

https://myfcpsk12.zoom.us/j/91903873132

Meeting ID: 919 0387 3132

Upcoming Events

• PTA meeting (11/19)
• Family night out – Five Guys (11/27)

 

The Book Fair Starts Monday!

Our Book Fair will be open from November 18 to November 22. I hope to see you there!

If you are able to volunteer to help at our Book Fair please see the Sign Up Genius for available days and times. https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0B4FA9A623A7FBC25-53030194-book 

Check out our Book Fair Page HERE for all the details:

• Dates  
• Special Family Times, including after school hours on Monday and Thursday!

Our Book Fair will be cash free this year. Please use the following links to learn how to set up an eWallet or eGift Card for your child.

• eWallet, a cash-free way for your child to shop at the book fair https://www.bookwormcentral.com/ewallet.php 
• eGift Card, the perfect gift for students, teachers or friends, redeemable at the book fair or our online bookstore 

https://www.bookwormcentral.com/gift_card/ 

Thank you for supporting our school and encouraging your child's love of reading!  

Happy Reading,

Maura Papas

  FLE (Family Life Education) Updates

Dear Parents/Guardians of Columbia Students:

Students in grades K-5 participate in Family Life Education (FLE) through their classroom teacher. Students in Kindergarten through grade 3 receive instruction in an emotional and social health unit. Students in grades 4-5 receive instruction in a human growth and development unit and an emotional and social health unit. For more information about the FCPS Family Life Education program, please see the detailed grade-level program descriptions https://www.fcps.edu/academics/curriculum/subject-area/family-life-education-fle#:~:text=Instruction%20promotes%20parental%20involvement%2C%20fosters,at%20a%20particular%20grade%20level.

In addition, grade level-specific curriculum lessons are available for review in multiple locations.

• Online in Schoology - includes lessons and media titles that FCPS has streaming rights for.  Any additional media or book titles that are not streamed are available at your child’s school library.
• Parents/guardians login to Schoology using the same username and password as their Student Information System (SIS).
• Your child’s school.  Please contact the school to schedule a time to review lessons and/or media.
• City of Fairfax Regional Library – lessons only.  Media is not available.

You are invited to attend an evening opportunity to preview the Family Life Education media and lessons and to talk with school staff about the program.  The meeting will be held on November 19 at 6:30 pm on Zoom. All program materials and media for all grade levels will be available for your review at this time.

Parents/guardians who do not wish to have their child participate in FLE instruction may choose to opt their child out of any or all of the lessons. If you would like to opt your child out of one or more lessons, opt-out forms for students in general education classes are available in the Parent Digital Consent (PDC). A paper opt-out form is being used for students in special education and using the modified FLE lessons for the 2024-25 school year. Modified opt-out forms can be found at, https://www.fcps.edu/academics/curriculum/subject-area/family-life-education-fle/fle-opt-out-request-forms  Should you opt your child out and then later decide you want your child included in FLE instruction, you must notify your child’s school principal or assistant principal in writing before instruction begins.

An alternative non-FLE health instructional program is provided for students who do not take part in FLE instruction, and every effort is made to foster understanding and respect for family choices and to avoid peer pressure for or against participation in the program.

Instruction occurs at various times during the school year.  Please contact your child’s teacher for specific dates of FLE instruction. We look forward to working as your partner in providing information that will help your child make healthy choices related to the exciting changes and new challenges, he/she will be facing in the next few years.

 

Donuts with Grown-Ups returns to CES

It’s almost time for Donuts with Grown-Ups! Families are invited to come enjoy donuts, coffee, and conversation with their children. The event will be held on Thursday, December 12th at 8:30am-9:00am for children with last names starting with A-L and Friday, December 13th at 8:30am-9:00am for children with last names starting with M-Z. Please RSVP by Tuesday, December 10th by returning the Donuts with Grown-Ups sign up form to your child's teacher or emailing your child’s teacher. We are asking for donations by grade level.

•  Suggested donations
  • K-3rd: Donuts
  • 4th & 5th: individually packaged drinks (i.e., juice boxes, small bottles of water).

  Boundary Review Community Meeting

Community meetings regarding FCPS’ comprehensive boundary review will take place in each of the division's six regions. You are encouraged to attend the meeting in our region, which will take place on Monday, November 18, 6:30-8 p.m., at Glasgow Middle School Cafeteria. You can also attend Thursday, December 12, 6:45-8:15 p.m., at Annandale High School Cafeteria. 

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

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

• Spanish: 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, 18 de noviembre, 6:30-8 p.m., en la cafetería de la Escuela Intermedia de Glasgow. Tambien puedes ir Jueves, 12 de diciembre, 6:45-8:15 p.m., en la Cafetería de la Escuela Secundaria de Annandale.

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.

 

  Professional Development for Teachers

 

Annandale Community:

We are excited to share the success of our recent math professional development sessions, held across the Annandale Pyramid of teachers. This collaboration is part of our ongoing commitment to aligning and enhancing math instruction from kindergarten through 12th grade, ensuring every student benefits from innovative, inclusive approaches to learning.

The sessions were made even more memorable by a visit from Superintendent Reid, who observed one of the workshops at Annandale Terrace Elementary School. She highlighted the visit in her "Weekly Reflections" newsletter, sharing her appreciation for our teachers’ dedication: "It was inspiring to see second grade teachers from across the pyramid collaborating on the upcoming math unit, sharing strategies, and adapting resources specifically to support our multilingual learners." Her words energize us to continue this vital work in supporting our diverse learners.

 

Here’s a look at the event highlights and outcomes:

Annandale Pyramid Elementary Schools: The recent Annandale Pyramid Elementary Math Professional Development session, held across various schools, brought together K-5 teachers for focused workshops tailored to each grade level. The sessions began with an overview of goals and shared resources, emphasizing adaptations for multilingual learners. Teachers then practiced effective scaffolding techniques in small groups and rehearsed lesson plans, with peer feedback to refine their approaches. These collaborative efforts aimed to enhance support for multilingual students and foster consistent instructional strategies across schools.

Annandale Pyramid Secondary Schools (Grades 6-12): Teachers from Annandale High School, Poe Middle School, and Holmes Middle School worked closely to share best practices to support our diverse group of students. They explored ways to address students’ needs through teacher-led small groups and used pictorial anchor charts to strengthen students' mathematical language. Content teams identified specific upcoming lessons where they plan to apply these strategies. This collaborative work highlights our commitment to building community across our schools and supporting our unified vision:

In the Annandale Pyramid, mathematics teaching and learning focuses on developing an understanding of concepts and procedures through problem-solving, reasoning, and discourse.

Thank you for your continued support as we foster a collaborative learning community in the Annandale Pyramid. Together, we are making strides toward a brighter future for all our students.

 

The Annandale Pyramid Principals:

Ingrid Badia (Annandale Terrace ES), Keesha Jackson-Muir (Braddock ES), Elizabeth Williams (Bren Mar Park ES), Michael Astudillo (Columbia ES), Felicia Usher (Weyanoke ES), Chad McRae (North Springfield ES), Serena Giron (Holmes MS), Jason Pannutti (Poe MS), and Shawn DeRose (Annandale HS)

CES Thanksgiving Luncheon

We hope to see you at Columbia’s Thanksgiving Luncheon on Thursday, November 21st!

The price is $4.75 for any adults and non-school aged children. To pay for an adult or child’s meal, please add additional funds to your child's mySchoolBucks lunch account. 

On the day of the luncheon, you must bring a valid ID with you to sign in at the office. Parents will have the option to shop at the book fair during their child’s lunch block!

Thanksgiving Luncheon Schedule

10:45 - 11:15: Kindergarten & EAC Lunch

11:30 - 12:00: 1st Grade Lunch

12:00 - 12:30: 2nd Grade Lunch

12:10 - 12:40: 4th Grade Lunch

12:40 - 1:10: 5th Grade Lunch

12:45 - 1:15: 3rd Grade Lunch

🐾Save the Date 🐾 3 Hour Early Release - 1:05 p.m. Dismissal

November 18

 

Parent Teacher Association (PTA) Meeting - Virtual on Zoom

November 19

 

Thanksgiving Luncheon

November 21

 

Holidays - Thanksgiving Break

November 27 - November 29

 

Donuts with Grownups - Last Names A-L

December 12

 

Donuts with Grownups - Last Names M-Z

December 13

 

Parent Teacher Association (PTA) Meeting

November 17

 

Holidays - Winter Break

December 23 - January 5

Columbia SCA representatives celebrating World Kindness Day!

6720 Alpine Drive, Annandale, VA 22003  | Main Office: 703-916-2500
Attendance: 703-916-2525 | Web | Twitter

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Weekly update for November 8, 2024

 

Dear Columbia friends and families,

 

We have had a strong start to the 2nd quarter of school. Earlier today, we celebrated the upcoming Veteran's Day holiday in a number of ways, including having guest speakers read books to our students about the important role that the military plays in our lives. Thank you to all the Veterans and active duty members who shared time with our Cougars today!

 

As you can see in pictures and articles below, many students have already attended their first field trip of the school year. As one of our School Improvement and Innovation Plan goals revolves around developing critical thinking skills, field trips can encourage students to think about a topic from multiple perspectives. Studies show that students who go on a variety of field trips have higher test scores and improved critical thinking skills overall. We are excited to offer these experiential learning opportunities throughout the year as we align them with curriculum standards. Thank you for your support for these impactful life-long learning experiences!

 

As a reminder, in honor of Veteran's Day, Monday will be a holiday with no school. We will see our Cougars back here on Tuesday, November 12th.

 

Have a wonderful three-day weekend!

 

Take care,

 

Mike Astudillo

Proud Principal

Columbia Elementary School

 

4th Grade Field Trip to the Kennedy Center

 

On Wednesday of this week, 4th grade students visited the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. and enjoyed a special concert for them performed by the National Symphony Orchestra. Check out a number of pictures of the 4th grade students and team on our school's website!

 

  New Tables for the Art Room!

We're thrilled to announce a fantastic addition to our art room: beautiful new tables! Thanks to the incredible support of our school community during the Art to Remember fundraiser, we were able to purchase these wonderful workspaces for our budding artists.

• Read all about the new art room tables on our website!

  2nd Grade Field Trip to E.C. Lawrence Park

 

On Thursday of this week, 2nd Graders visited E.C. Lawrence Park Earlier this month, second grade visited Ellanor C. Lawrence Park to learn about Native American Life in Fairfax County. Students explored what life may have been like for Eastern Woodland Indians and the relationship they had with the land that is now Fairfax County. Take a look at the CES website for more pictures and details!

  Return Your Federal Impact Aid Survey

 

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

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

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

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

Need to Register for ParentVUE? 

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

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

 

  Kindergarten Field Trip to Hidden Oaks Nature Center 

Earlier today, our Kindergarten students visited the Fairfax County Park Authority's Hidden Oaks Nature Center in Annandale. Students interacted with live animal displays, exhibits, a pond, creeks, woodland trails, gardens, play areas, and a resource library and a rain garden. See the school website for more details!

  Volunteer at the Book Fair!

Our Book Fair will be open from November 18 to November 22. I hope to see you there!

If you are able to volunteer to help at our Book Fair please see the Sign Up Genius for available days and times. https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0B4FA9A623A7FBC25-53030194-book 

Check out our Book Fair Page HERE for all the details:

• Dates  
• Special Family Times, including after school hours on Monday and Thursday!

Our Book Fair will be cash free this year. Please use the following links to learn how to set up an eWallet or eGift Card for your child.

• eWallet, a cash-free way for your child to shop at the book fair https://www.bookwormcentral.com/ewallet.php 
• eGift Card, the perfect gift for students, teachers or friends, redeemable at the book fair or our online bookstore 

https://www.bookwormcentral.com/gift_card/ 

Thank you for supporting our school and encouraging your child's love of reading!  

Happy Reading,

Maura Papas

  IEP Palooza and Community Resource Fair

 

Parents/caregivers, school staff, and students over the age of 14 are invited to attend an interactive event celebrating the individualized education program (IEP) process. The IEP Palooza and Community Resource Fair will take place on Saturday, November 16, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m., at Jackson Middle School. 

The event is sponsored by Fairfax County Special Education Parent Teacher Association (SEPTA). Activities include simulated IEP meetings, break-out sessions on the various parts of an IEP, and a resource fair to learn more about community supports. Register in advance.

 

 

Invitation to CES Thanksgiving Luncheon

 

We are pleased to invite you to Columbia’s Thanksgiving Luncheon on Tuesday, November 21st!

The Thanksgiving meal includes roast turkey with dressing, green beans, fresh fruit, milk, whipped potatoes with gravy, and pumpkin bread. Vegetarian offerings include chickenless bites or power packs.

The price is $4.75 for any adults and non-school aged children. To pay for an adult or child’s meal, please add additional funds to your child's mySchoolBucks lunch account. 

On the day of the luncheon, you must bring a valid ID with you to sign in at the office. Parents will have the option to shop at the book fair during their child’s lunch block!

Thanksgiving Luncheon Schedule

10:45 - 11:15: Kindergarten & EAC Lunch

11:30 - 12:00: 1st Grade Lunch

12:00 - 12:30: 2nd Grade Lunch

12:10 - 12:40: 4th Grade Lunch

12:40 - 1:10: 5th Grade Lunch

12:45 - 1:15: 3rd Grade Lunch *updated time

 

  🐾Save the Date 🐾   Holiday - Veterans Day

November 11

 

3 Hour Early Release - 1:05 p.m. Dismissal

November 18

 

Parent Teacher Association (PTA) Meeting

November 19

 

Thanksgiving Luncheon

November 21

 

Holidays - Thanksgiving Break

November 27 - November 29

 

Donuts with Grownups - Last Names A-L

December 12

 

Donuts with Grownups - Last Names M-Z

December 13

 

Parent Teacher Association (PTA) Meeting

November 17

 

Holidays - Winter Break

December 23 - January 5

6720 Alpine Drive, Annandale, VA 22003  | Main Office: 703-916-2500
Attendance: 703-916-2525 | Web | Twitter

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Weekly update for October 31, 2024

 

Dear CES friends and families,

 

It is hard to believe that today is the last day of the 1st quarter. Our Cougars have worked very hard since our school year began in August to learn the procedures, routines, and expectations of their homeroom class, their specials class as well as how to navigate the entire school community. They have also completed many beginning of the year assessments to guide the work we do during our school-wide reading and math intervention blocks to ensure that we are supporting all Cougars by name and by need. Looking forward to a wonderful 2nd quarter of school!

 

We would like to thank the PTA for hosting another successful Bingo-ween event last Friday evening for the CES community. Led by our PTA president, Sylvie Nguyen-Fawley, the event was well attended, spirited, and a ton of fun! I would also like to send along a special thank you to all the CES teachers, families, and friends who joined the Annandale Chamber of Commerce parade. This truly is a small school, with a big heart!

 

As a reminder, we have a 2-hour early release this afternoon with dismissal at 2:05pm. Also, there is no school tomorrow, Monday or Tuesday due to holidays and teacher workdays. We will see all of our Cougars back at school on Wednesday, November 6th. 

 

I hope you have a wonderful weekend!

 

Take care,

 

Mike Astudillo

Proud Principal

Columbia Elementary School

 

Complete Form for Upcoming 3-Hour Early Release Days

To ensure a smooth and safe dismissal for all students on upcoming 3-Hour Early Release days, please complete the following survey by November 12th: https://forms.gle/pmHiU2EDAk1wk3cv9

This survey will allow you to indicate your child's dismissal plan for all upcoming early release dates. You will receive a confirmation email the week before each early release day to remind you of your child's dismissal plan.

3-Hour Early Release Dates:

• November 18th
• February 10th
• March 10th
• April 21st
• May 12th

Need to make a change after submitting the form? Please email Shea Hestmark ([email protected]) and Shannon Dumont ([email protected]) with any dismissal changes.

Important Note for PM SACC Students: If your child attends PM SACC, please connect with Laura Couch regarding dismissal changes. PM SACC students do not need to complete this form.

Mark Your Calendars for the Fall Book Fair! Volunteers Needed!

 

Our Book Fair will be open from November 18 to November 22. I hope to see you there! If you are interested in volunteering at the Book Fair, please email Maura Papas at [email protected].

Check out our Book Fair Page HERE for all the details:

• Dates  
• Special Family Times

Our Book Fair will be cash free this year. Please use the following links to learn how to set up an eWallet or eGift Card for your child.

• eWallet, a cash-free way for your child to shop at the book fair https://www.bookwormcentral.com/ewallet.php 
• eGift Card, the perfect gift for students, teachers or friends, redeemable at the book fair or our online bookstore 

https://www.bookwormcentral.com/gift_card/ 

Thank you for supporting our school and encouraging your child's love of reading!  

Happy Reading,

Maura Papas, Librarian

PTA News & Notes

BINGOween - Thank you!

It was great to see everyone on Friday at BINGOween. Thank you to all who volunteered and to the wonderful teachers and staff who offered such fun raffle prizes and called the BINGO games. The evening was so much fun and we could not have done it without you. We also want to thank Patient First and all of our sponsors. We hope everyone has a wonderful and safe Halloween! 

 

Join the PTA

Join us! We would like to invite you to join the PTA to become part of a collaborative community supporting events benefiting Columbia’s students, teachers and families. The PTA fundraises for school projects and provides volunteer support for beloved events such as BINGOween, the read-a-thon and other fun events throughout the year. You can join HERE and would love if you would consider sponsoring a teacher’s membership if you can. We welcome questions, please let us know if you would like to get more involved by emailing [email protected].

 

Join us for CES Thanksgiving Luncheon

We are pleased to invite you to Columbia’s Thanksgiving Luncheon on Tuesday, November 21st!

The Thanksgiving meal includes roast turkey with dressing, green beans, fresh fruit, milk, whipped potatoes with gravy, and pumpkin bread. Vegetarian offerings include chickenless bites or power packs.

The price is $4.75 for any adults and non-school aged children. To pay for an adult or child’s meal, please add additional funds to your child's mySchoolBucks lunch account. 

On the day of the luncheon, you must bring a valid ID with you to sign in at the office. Parents will have the option to shop at the book fair during their child’s lunch block!

Thanksgiving Luncheon Schedule

10:45 - 11:15: Kindergarten & EAC Lunch

11:15 - 11:45: 3rd Grade Lunch

11:30 - 12:00: 1st Grade Lunch

12:00 - 12:30: 2nd Grade Lunch

12:10 - 12:40: 4th Grade Lunch

12:40 - 1:10: 5th Grade Lunch

Specials Spotlight

FLES & STEAM with Srta. Alba

 

Hola familias de CES! It has been a great start in FLES/STEAM this quarter. Kindergarten has been working on colors, numbers 1-10, and the alphabet. First graders and second graders are getting ready to do syllables, so that they’ll be able to read in Spanish! In third grade, students have learned about insects and what they see in a garden. In fourth grade, students have learned about nature and bodies of water in Spanish. Lastly, fifth grade students are working on places in the community and created a building that they would want to see in their community. Many designed their own version of a skyscraper using KEVA planks!

PTA Cougar Cafe success!

Earlier this week, staff at Columbia were treated to a delicious spread of treats and coffee by the wonderful PTA. Teachers were grateful, elated and well caffeinated as a result! On behalf of the extraordinary adults who work hard every day in the building, we would like to send along a sincere note of appreciation to Elena Eddy, Giuliana Villamil, and all the wonderful parents who supported this greatly appreciated treat! Check out pictures from the Cougar Cafe Coffee Bar on Instagram!

🐾Save the Date 🐾 Student Holiday - Diwali

November 1

 

Student Holiday

November 4

 

Student Holiday

November 5

 

Holiday - Veterans Day

November 11

 

3 Hour Early Release - 1:05 p.m. Dismissal

November 18

 

Parent Teacher Association (PTA) Meeting

November 19

 

Thanksgiving Luncheon

November 21

6720 Alpine Drive, Annandale, VA 22003  | Main Office: 703-916-2500
Attendance: 703-916-2525 | Web | Twitter

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Weekly Update for October 25, 2024

 

 

Dear Columbia friends and families:

 

We are so excited for tonight's Bingo-ween event and tomorrow's Annandale Parade! We hope to see you all there for the marquee events of the year.

 

As a reminder for tonight, Bingo-ween pre-sales start at 5:30pm and the bingo games begin at 6pm on the dot.

 

For tomorrow's Parade, remember to wear something red and meet in the Annandale United Methodist Church parking lot at 9:30am. 

 

This truly is a special school community and it's because of the families, staff, and students that make this a such a great small school, with a big heart.

 

Take care,

Mike Astudillo

Proud Principal

Columbia Elementary School

We are thrilled to announce that Columbia Elementary School received the Purple Star Designation Award, which recognizes schools for being a welcoming and supportive place, especially for our military connected students. Congratulations to CES!

 

Advanced Academics Programs

Dear Columbia Families,

 

If you are interested in the Advanced Academic Full-Time Level IV screening process for your child, below are some important reminders.  Please feel free to reach out to Michelle Sansone anytime with questions.  [email protected]

 

                                  Full Time AAP Referral Information

Required

• Submit full-time referrals no later than December 15th.
  • Make sure to complete the form marked Full-Time Referral.
  • It is very helpful to fill out the form even if the student has a Grade 2 Universal Screener Referral.
  • Do not exceed the space provided.

Optional

• Parents may submit two pages of work samples.
  • It must be single-sided and on 8½ by 11 No 3D, video, or audio.
  • Consider work samples that provide evidence of the student’s ability to think critically and creatively, reason, and problem solve.
  • Parents may write a note on the work sample to show what you want the committee to see in the child’s work.
• Parent/Guardian Questionnaire
  • This is an important form to provide specific examples to showcase the student’s strengths that may not be visible in a work sample.
  • If your child has an IEP or 504, you may provide one additional page providing more information.
• Additional Testing
  • A parent/guardian may seek private testing through a state-licensed clinical psychologist or through George Mason University (GMU). If testing was not done at GMU, the clinical psychologist’s license number must be included with the full report.

 

You may submit hard copies in an envelope addressed to Michelle Sansone in the school office or digital copies. [email protected]

PDF and Image (jpg) files are accepted.

 

All forms can be found on https://www.fcps.edu/academics/advanced-academic-programs-aap/forms-advanced-academic-program-aap

Mark Your Calendars for the Fall Book Fair!

 

Our Book Fair will be open from November 18 to November 22. I hope to see you there!

Check out our Book Fair Page HERE for all the details:

• Dates  
• Special Family Times

Our Book Fair will be cash free this year. Please use the following links to learn how to set up an eWallet or eGift Card for your child.

• eWallet, a cash-free way for your child to shop at the book fair https://www.bookwormcentral.com/ewallet.php 
• eGift Card, the perfect gift for students, teachers or friends, redeemable at the book fair or our online bookstore 

https://www.bookwormcentral.com/gift_card/ 

Thank you for supporting our school and encouraging your child's love of reading!  

Happy Reading,

Maura Papas, Librarian

Specials Spotlight

Art with Mrs. McKenna

Hello CES Families! It has been an amazing 1st quarter in Art class. Kindergarten students have been introduced to multiple media- drawing, collage, sculpture, and ceramic clay. First graders have been creating art about their families and deciduous trees. Second graders have been creating seasonal artworks--paintings and weavings. Ask your 1st or 2nd grader which season they chose to represent in their artwork? Third graders have been working hard on their cultural self-portraits and learning the proportions of the face. In Fourth grade, we have been learning the proportion of the human figure through gesture drawings and wire sculptures and are starting our ceramic coil pots. Fifth graders have been using their imaginations to create a painting of a landscape of their own video game world design. I am so proud of your young artists and the bravery they show to share about themselves and their world through their artmaking!

Second quarter will be beginning our artworks for our Art to Remember fundraiser this Spring and each grade level will be experiencing more 2-D and 3-D art media. Thank you as always, for your continued support of our Art program and a special thank you to those of you who have been sending in yogurt cups for our paint stations and bubble wrap envelopes. Donations are always appreciated!

  Nominations are Now Open! Outstanding Employee Awards Program

Nominations are now open for the Outstanding Employee Awards! 

To submit a nomination for a Columbia Elementary Outstanding Employee in one of the categories below, please complete the nomination through this Google form link:  https://forms.gle/sh97qgg7iDo8JCEg9. You may nominate one employee at our school or multiple employees (one individual may only nominate one employee per category.)

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Outstanding New Principal
• Eligibility: Has up to three years of experience as a building principal (in any school/school district

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

The deadline to submit a nomination is November 8, 2024. 

If you have any questions, please contact Shannon Dumont at [email protected].

  Author visits Columbia ES!

Early this week we were pleased to host John Gallagher, the author of the Max Meow graphic novel series. Students in 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades came together to learn and hear from this popular author in our library. Topics included a historical overview of comics and graphic novels, along with integrating hieroglyphics and the origin of storytelling through the ages. Different types of characters and styles were covered using simple shapes to create characters, both funny and heroic. Students got to learn how to draw characters themselves and really enjoyed this interactive event!

• Read all about Mr. Gallagher's visit to Columbia!

  Federal Impact Aid forms

 

Return Your Federal Impact Aid Survey

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

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

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

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

Need to Register for ParentVUE? 

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

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

 

  🐾Save the Date 🐾 PTA Event: Bingo-ween

October 25

 

March with CES in the Annandale Parade!

October 26

 

2 Hour Early Release - 2:05 p.m. Dismissal

October 31

 

Student Holiday - Diwali

November 1

 

Student Holiday

November 4

 

Student Holiday

November 5

 

Holiday - Veterans Day

November 11

 

3 Hour Early Release - 1:05 p.m. Dismissal

November 18

 

Parent Teacher Association (PTA) Meeting

November 19

 

Thanksgiving Luncheon

November 21

6720 Alpine Drive, Annandale, VA 22003  | Main Office: 703-916-2500
Attendance: 703-916-2525 | Web | Twitter

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Weekly update for October 18, 2024

 

 

Dear CES friends and families,

 

We are looking forward to an action-packed week next week at Columbia ES! As a reminder, we will have a 3-hour early release day on Monday with dismissal at 1:05pm. If you haven't already, please inform your student's teacher about your family's decision to dismiss at 1:05pm or stay until 4:05pm. 

 

On Friday of next week, we are thrilled to host the annual Bingo-ween extravaganza! The event will take place just outside of Door 8, near the playground in the back. See below for more details. 

 

And finally, on Saturday, October 26th, please join us as we march down Columbia Pike as the Grand Marshal entry in the Annandale Chamber of Commerce Parade. Everyone is invited, please remember to wear something red, and we can't wait to see you there.

 

Have a wonderful weekend!

 

Take care,

 

Mike Astudillo

Proud Principal

Columbia Elementary School

 

March in the Annandale Parade!

Saturday October 26th, you and your family, friends, and pets are invited to join Columbia Elementary School as we march as this year's Grand Marshals in the Annandale Chamber of Commerce Parade!

This year we are going all out! We will be marching with Urban Evolutions Fire Truck. That's not all! We will have candy, bubble wands, face paint, pom poms and more!

Please wear Columbia gear or something red and join us for this exciting opportunity to show school spirit! We look forward to seeing you there!

Register your student here: https://forms.gle/RhriLYkADN72Xv3CA

  PTA News & Notes

 

BINGOween 

Please join us Friday, October 25th for BINGOween. This is a student favorite where they can dress up for Halloween, play BINGO and win prizes. WE STILL NEED VOLUNTEERS to pull the event off. If you can help, please sign up here. We look forward to seeing you!

 

We have partnered with JETs PIZZA. They specialize in Detroit-style pizza. Cheese and Pepperoni Pizzas can be pre-ordered here.  Note: full pizza’s can be pre-ordered by Monday, October 21st for $14. Slices only will be available for purchase the evening over BINGOween for $3/slice.

You can also order directly from JETs Pizza and mention Columbia Elementary School on October 25, 15% of your order will come back to our school. https://www.jetspizza.com/ (703-977-7117)

Key Dates

BINGOween (10/25)

Family Night Out – Chick-Fil-A (10/30)

 

Complete Survey for October 21 Three Hour Early Release  

To help ensure that all students have appropriate transportation and child care arrangements on our upcoming 3-Hour Early Release on Monday, October 21, please complete the following survey by October 14. 

 https://forms.gle/Hhqz5oAvuQUaaPwz6

Specials Spotlight

Library with Ms. Papas

Kindergarten, 1st and 2nd Graders have gotten to know their classmates and had the opportunity to check out books. They have learned about book care and being responsible users of the library. Kindergarteners have learned the parts of a book (front cover, back cover, spine, spine label) and the difference between a book that allows you to learn with your imagination (fiction) and a book that allows you to learn information (non-fiction). First graders have mapped the library to help remember how to locate their favorite books and discovered new interests. Second graders are working on developing a design to create a chair after reading I Am Not A Chair! 

3rd, 4th and 5th Graders have gotten to know their classmates and had the opportunity to check out books. They have learned about library organization and gone on scavenger hunts in the library to locate books.  Third graders have explored Destiny Discover, the online catalog system, and learned how to locate books using it. They also learned about the Dewey Decimal System and how that determines where non-fiction books are located in the library.  Fourth and Fifth graders have had the opportunity to explore FCPS databases to locate information of interest to them or needed for class.

Save the dates! 

The Columbia ES Fall Book Fair will be held from November 18-22. More information to come!

  Author Visit

John Gallagher, author of the Max Meow graphic novel series, will be visiting Columbia next week to speak with the 3rd, 4th and 5th graders about storytelling and creating. 

Families have the opportunity to purchase signed copies of the Max Meow books for their students. The order deadline is November 1, and books will be delivered to students the first week of November.  

Please see John Gallagher’s website https://maxmeow.square.site/ for further information.

 

Pre-School Community Peers Opportunity

Columbia ES is pleased to announce that we will have community peers in our preschool program again this school year. 

The program will invite a limited number of community preschoolers (1-2 per class), who are aged 3 ½ -5 years, to participate in our daily preschool activities. The children from the community will have the opportunity to make new friends and share experiences with current early childhood special education students. 

Feel free to contact Ms. Tchinski ([email protected]) for further explanation of the program and if you are interested in participating. Your thoughts and suggestions are welcome, as we are all partners in this effort.

 

🐾Save the Date 🐾

 

3 Hour Early Release - 1:05 p.m. Dismissal

October 21

 

Fall Picture Day Makeups

October 23

 

PTA Event: Bingo-ween

October 25

 

March with CES in the Annandale Parade!

October 26

 

2 Hour Early Release - 2:05 p.m. Dismissal

October 31

 

Student Holiday - Diwali

November 1

 

Student Holiday

November 4

 

Student Holiday

November 5

 

Holiday - Veterans Day

November 11

 

3 Hour Early Release - 1:05 p.m. Dismissal

November 18

 

Parent Teacher Association (PTA) Meeting

November 19

 

Thanksgiving Luncheon

November 21

6720 Alpine Drive, Annandale, VA 22003  | Main Office: 703-916-2500
Attendance: 703-916-2525 | Web | Twitter

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

  October CES PTA Meeting Tonight at 7pm

 

This is a friendly reminder that the PTA will be hosting their monthly PTA meeting this evening in the library at 7pm. Everyone is welcomed and you are also invited to join via zoom at the link below. This is an exciting time of year with many opportunities to get involved and support the PTA and all families at Columbia ES.

 

https://myfcpsk12.zoom.us/j/91903873132

Meeting ID: 919 0387 3132

One tap mobile

+13092053325,,91903873132# US

 

 

6720 Alpine Drive, Annandale, VA 22003  | Main Office: 703-916-2500
Attendance: 703-916-2525 | Web | Twitter

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

Weekly update for October 11, 2024

 

Dear CES friends and families,

 

It is hard to believe there are only 3 weeks left in the first quarter of this school year. As a reminder, this coming Monday, October 14th, is a Staff Development Day. There will be no school for students on Monday, and we will see everyone back at Columbia on Tuesday, October 15th. 

 

Speaking of Tuesday, October 15th, that is also the same date as our October PTA meeting (see below for details). There are a lot of exciting events coming up in the next few weeks, please plan on attending either in person or virtually if you are available to get involved, support, or just hear about the wonderful activities for all Columbia students and families.

 

I hope you have a wonderful weekend!

 

Take care,

 

Mike Astudillo

Proud Principal

Columbia Elementary School

 

March in the Annandale Parade!

Saturday October 26th, you and your family, friends, and pets are invited to join Columbia Elementary School as we march as this year's Grand Marshals in the Annandale Chamber of Commerce Parade!

This year we are going all out! We will be marching with Urban Evolutions Fire Truck. That's not all! We will have candy, bubble wands, face paint, pom poms and more!

Please wear Columbia gear or something red and join us for this exciting opportunity to show school spirit! We look forward to seeing you there!

Register your student here: https://forms.gle/RhriLYkADN72Xv3CA

  Complete Survey for October 21 Three Hour Early Release  

To help ensure that all students have appropriate transportation and child care arrangements on our upcoming 3-Hour Early Release on Monday, October 21, please complete the following survey by October 14. 

 https://forms.gle/Hhqz5oAvuQUaaPwz6

 

  PTA News & Notes

October PTA Meeting

The October PTA meeting will be held in the library, and on zoom, next Tuesday evening, October 15th, at 7pm. Please join us as we gear up for an exciting month of activities and events! 

 

BINGOween

Please join us Friday, October 25th for BINGOween. This is a student favorite where they can dress up for Halloween, play BINGO and win prizes. This event takes many volunteers to pull off. If you can help, please sign up here. We look forward to seeing you!

 

Together in Education/Harris Teeter Partnership

Together in Education is a program where Harris Teeter shoppers can link their account to Columbia Elementary School and the school will receive funds. You can link your card online HERE or visit the customer service counter at your local Harris Teeter and tell them that you would like to link your account. Columbia Elementary School’s code is 4295.

 

Join the PTA

Join us! We would like to invite you to join the PTA to become part of a collaborative community supporting events benefiting Columbia’s students, teachers and families. The PTA fundraises for school projects and provides volunteer support for beloved events such as BINGOween, the read-a-thon and other fun events throughout the year. You can join HERE and would love if you would consider sponsoring a teacher’s membership if you can. We welcome questions, please let us know if you would like to get more involved by emailing [email protected].

 

Key Dates

• Family night out – Chick-Fil-A (10/30)

 

Next week is Digital Citizenship Week! (Or October 14-18 is Digital Citizenship Week!) Please consider using these conversation starters to stimulate discussion about this very important topic with your student! (K-2: English, Spanish & 3-5: English, Spanish)

Specials Spotlight

General Music with Mrs. Eggleton

Kindergarten, 1st, and 2nd graders are working on getting to know the students in their class, learning the rules and procedure for the music classroom, move to music using our body to show how music changes, sing sol-mi patterns and songs to create answers to songs, echo two-measure rhythmic patterns, exploring music from other cultures and contributing in a positive manner to the group effort of making music.  

3rd, 4th, and 5th graders are working on getting to know students in their class, learning rules and procedures in the music classroom, participating in action /singing games, performing on recorder/xylophones to create unique compositions, identifying band/orchestra instruments, and contribute in a positive manner to the group effort of making music. 

All grades love our school song and ask to sing “We Are Columbia”  every class.  Keep a song in your heart!

  Pre-School Community Peers Opportunity

 

Columbia ES is pleased to announce that we will have community peers in our preschool program again this school year. The early childhood special education staff members have been investigating the possible opportunities for our students to participate in integration activities with typically developing peers. This will involve teaching preschoolers with delays and without delays in the same classroom. It can provide young children with a more stimulating environment, teach coping skills in a variety of situations, and provide the opportunity to practice appropriate social skills.

 

Our program will invite a limited number of community preschoolers (1-2 per class), who are aged 3 ½ -5 years, to participate in our daily preschool activities. The children from the community will have the opportunity to make new friends and share experiences with current early childhood special education students. Our students will, in turn, benefit from being with community peers who can model appropriate language, motor, and social skills.

 

All children learn through their play. Intellectual growth occurs in a social context, influenced strongly by the quality of social interactions. The goal of this program is to encourage active learning and promote social interaction and acceptance through shared experiences between the community children and our preschoolers with special needs.  Feel free to contact Ms. Tchinski ([email protected]) for further explanation of the program and if you are interested in participating. Your thoughts and suggestions are welcome, as we are all partners in this effort.

 

  🐾Save the Date 🐾

 

Student Holiday (Indigenous Peoples' Day)

October 14

  Parent Teacher Association (PTA) Meeting

October 15

 

3 Hour Early Release - 1:05 p.m. Dismissal

October 21

 

Fall Picture Day Makeups

October 23

 

PTA Event: Bingo-ween

October 25

 

March with CES in the Annandale Parade!

October 26

 

2 Hour Early Release - 2:05 p.m. Dismissal

October 31

6720 Alpine Drive, Annandale, VA 22003  | Main Office: 703-916-2500
Attendance: 703-916-2525 | Web | Twitter

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

Weekly update for October 2, 2024

 

Dear CES friends and families:

 

Although it has been a short week with students, we had another great one at Columbia ES. We are so proud of how the students have been progressing academically, socially, and behaviorally as we move in to the month of October. Thank you for your continued support at home as we navigate this last month of the 1st quarter of school. 

 

As a reminder, tomorrow is a holiday and Friday is a Teacher Workday. We will see all of our students back here at school on Monday, October 7th.

 

I hope you have a wonderful weekend!

 

Take care,

 

Mike Astudillo

Proud Principal

Columbia Elementary School

 

PTA News & Notes

BINGOween

Please join us Friday, October 25th for BINGOween. This is a student favorite where they can dress up for Halloween, play BINGO and win prizes. This event takes many volunteers to pull off. If you can help, please sign up here. We look forward to seeing you!

 

Together in Education/Harris Teeter Partnership

Together in Education is a program where Harris Teeter shoppers can link their account to Columbia Elementary School and the school will receive funds. You can link your card online HERE or visit the customer service counter at your local Harris Teeter and tell them that you would like to link your account. Columbia Elementary School’s code is 4295.

 

Join the PTA

Join us! We would like to invite you to join the PTA to become part of a collaborative community supporting events benefiting Columbia’s students, teachers and families. The PTA fundraises for school projects and provides volunteer support for beloved events such as BINGOween, the read-a-thon and other fun events throughout the year. You can join HERE and would love if you would consider sponsoring a teacher’s membership if you can. We welcome questions, please let us know if you would like to get more involved by emailing [email protected].

 

Key Dates

• Family night out – Chick-Fil-A (10/30)

Complete Survey for October 21 Three Hour Early Release

To help ensure that all students have appropriate transportation and child care arrangements on our upcoming 3-Hour Early Release on Monday, October 21, please complete the following survey by October 14.  https://forms.gle/Hhqz5oAvuQUaaPwz6

  Mark your calendars for this year's Parade!  

Saturday October 26th, you and your family, friends, and pets are invited to join Columbia Elementary School as we march as this year's Grand Marshals in the Annandale Chamber of Commerce Parade! We will be meeting at the Annandale United Methodist Church parking lot at 9:30am. There will be candy, bubbles, face stickers, pom-poms and more! Please wear Columbia gear or something red. We look forward to seeing you there!

 

See the link below for general parade info:

https://www.annandalechamber.com/theannandaleparade.rhtml

 

Specials Spotlight

Physical Education with Mr. Kain

Kindergarten, first grade, and second grade students are working on cooperative games and locomotor skills.  Students have completed teamwork challenges such as passing gator skin balls from classmate to classmate without using their hands.  Students have also used polyspots to move a team across the gym without touching the ground.  Third grade, fourth grade, and fifth grade students have been working on cooperative games and learning the five components of fitness.  Students tested the five components of fitness, wrote a SMART goal, and developed an implementation plan to reach their goal.  All students will be working on throwing and catching skills in October.

  🐾Save the Date 🐾   Student Holiday (Rosh Hashanah)

October 3

 

Student Holiday (Teacher Workday)

October 4

 

Advanced Academics Program (AAP) Information Meeting - Level IV Screening and Identification Process 2nd - 5th Grade

October 8

 

Student Holiday (Indigenous Peoples' Day)

October 14

  Parent Teacher Association (PTA) Meeting

October 15

 

3 Hour Early Release - 1:05 p.m. Dismissal

October 21

 

Fall Picture Day Makeups

October 23

 

PTA Event: Bingo-ween

October 25

 

March with CES in the Annandale Parade!

October 26

 

2 Hour Early Release - 2:05 p.m. Dismissal

October 31

6720 Alpine Drive, Annandale, VA 22003  | Main Office: 703-916-2500
Attendance: 703-916-2525 | Web | Twitter

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

Weekly update for Sept. 27, 2024

 

Dear CES friends and families:

 

It has been another exciting week at Columbia. Although we had to cancel our Fall Picnic last evening, we are very much looking forward to seeing everyone at Bingo-ween on October 25th and the Annandale Chamber of Commerce Parade on October 26th.

 

We also appreciate everyone's efforts in supporting fundraising at CES through family restaurant nights, like last Wednesday evening at Domino's Pizza. Stay tuned for future family nights where proceeds go to supporting all students at Columbia.

 

As we look forward to next week, please note that students will only be at school Monday - Wednesday. Thursday, October 3rd is a holiday and Friday, October 4th is a Teacher Workday.

 

I hope you have a wonderful weekend!

 

Take care,

 

Mike Astudillo

Proud Principal

Columbia Elementary School

 

🐾Save the Date 🐾   Student Holiday (Rosh Hashanah)

October 3

 

Advanced Academics Program (AAP) Information Meeting - Level IV Screening and Identification Process 2nd - 5th Grade

October 8

 

Student Holiday (Indigenous Peoples' Day)

October 14

 

  Parent Teacher Association (PTA) Meeting

October 15

 

3 Hour Early Release - 1:05 p.m. Dismissal

October 21

 

Fall Picture Day Makeups

October 23

 

PTA Event: Bingo-ween

October 25

 

March with CES in the Annandale Parade!

October 26

6720 Alpine Drive, Annandale, VA 22003  | Main Office: 703-916-2500
Attendance: 703-916-2525 | Web | Twitter

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

Fall Picnic - Canceled

 

Dear CES friends and families:

 

We have decided to cancel tonight's Fall Picnic due to the weather and the condition of the grounds. Unfortunately, we didn't have great luck with the weather for this event, however we can't wait to see everyone at Bingo-Ween on October 25th! Also, the following day we hope to see everyone at the Annandale Chamber of Commerce Parade on October 26th!

 

As a quick reminder, tomorrow is our first Spirit Day at school this year and we encourage everyone to wear clothing representing their favorite book or movie character. Please remember that masks and props will not be permitted. We hope to see a lot of creative ideas tomorrow!

 

Take care,

 

Mike Astudillo

Proud Principal

Columbia Elementary

6720 Alpine Drive, Annandale, VA 22003  | Main Office: 703-916-2500
Attendance: 703-916-2525 | Web | Twitter

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Family Night Out is Tonight!

 

Dear CES friends and families:

 

As a reminder, the last Wednesday of each month is our school's "Family Night Out" this school year. Our PTA has collaborated with local vendors to provide a percentage of proceeds back to Columbia Elementary School on these evenings. 

 

As today is Wednesday, September 25th, that makes tonight: Family Night Out at Domino's Pizza. See the flyer below for details and thank you, in advance, for supporting this month's Family Night Out!

 

 

6720 Alpine Drive, Annandale, VA 22003  | Main Office: 703-916-2500
Attendance: 703-916-2525 | Web | Twitter

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Weekly update for Sept. 20, 2024

 

Dear CES friends and families:

 

It has been another great week at Columbia. Next week, we will have an Advanced Academic Program (AAP) parent meeting on Tuesday, September 24th. See the flyer below for more information. We are also looking forward to seeing you at the rescheduled Fall Picnic this upcoming Thursday, September 26th at 6pm on the playground. 

 

Also coming up soon, our Student Council Association (SCA) will offer Spirit Day opportunities for students throughout the school year. For the first Spirit Day of this school year, the SCA voted on the theme: "Dress like your favorite Book Character of Movie Character." Students are encouraged to dress like their favorite character, except for masks or props, on Friday, September 27th.

Please email Mr. Kain ([email protected]) or Mrs. Julian ([email protected]), our SCA sponsors, with any questions you may have.

 

Finally, it was just announced that Columbia Elementary School has been selected to be the GRAND MARSHAL entry of the Annandale Chamber of Commerce Parade on Saturday, October 26th. Please save the date, as we welcome all CES friends and families to march in the parade with us as we celebrate this wonderful school with the Annandale community. More details to come!

 

Have a wonderful weekend!

 

Take care,

 

Mike Astudillo

Proud Principal

Columbia Elementary School

 

PTA News and Notes

 

Fall Picnic RESCHEDULED

The fall picnic has been rescheduled to THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 26th from 6-8 PM. We hope you will can join us.  

 

Volunteers

We are looking for volunteers to help with events throughout the year. There are roles of all kinds from donations to day of time commitments. Please consider signing up HERE and helping us make this year’s events a success for our kids!

 

Annandale High School Pyramid Events

Our pyramid is working to build a sense of community among students. There are two upcoming high school games where elementary and middles school students will be allowed admission into the game for free with a paying adult (school spirit wear is encouraged). Please see below for details, both games will be at Annandale High School.

• Field Hockey will be Monday, October 7 (Varsity at play at 7:30 pm)
• Girls' Volleyball will be Wednesday, October 9 (Varsity plays at 7 pm)

Together in Education/Harris Teeter Partnership

Together in Education is a program where Harris Teeter shoppers can link their account to Columbia Elementary School and the school will receive funds. You can link your card online HERE or visit the customer service counter at your local Harris Teeter and tell them that you would like to link your account. Columbia Elementary School’s code is 4295.

 

Join the PTA

Join us! We would like to invite you to join the PTA to become part of a collaborative community supporting events benefiting Columbia’s students, teachers and families. The PTA fundraises for school projects and provides volunteer support for beloved events such as BINGOween, the read-a-thon and other fun events throughout the year. You can join HERE and would love if you would consider sponsoring a teacher’s membership if you can. We welcome questions, please let us know if you would like to get more involved by emailing [email protected].

 

Key Date

• Family night out – Dominos (9/25)

 

After School Clubs Updates

 

We will begin our fall season after school clubs next week. There are still spaces available for the soccer and basketball camps advertised below. We have extended the deadline to register until Sunday. Please see below for registration details.

 

Congratulations FCPS CARES Recipients!

Congratulations to Jacqueline Candray, Blanca Chicas, Carmen Velasco, & Tony Taylor ​​​on being recognized as September 2024 FCPS CARES recipients!

Read all about Ms. Candray, Ms. Chicas, Mr. Taylor, and Ms. Velasco's recognition on the CES website!

Congratulations to Jason Kain ​​​on being recognized as an August 2024 FCPS CARES recipient!

Read all about Mr. Kain's recognition on the CES website!

  🐾Save the Date 🐾

 

Advanced Academics Program (AAP) Information Meeting - AAP Levels of Service

September 24

 

PTA Event - Family Order In: Domino's Doughraiser

September 25

  PTA Event - Fall Picnic

September 26

 

SCA Spirit Day - Book Character & Movie Character Day

September 27

  Student Holiday (Rosh Hashanah)

October 3

 

Advanced Academics Program (AAP) Information Meeting - Level IV Screening and Identification Process 2nd - 5th Grade

October 8

 

Student Holiday (Indigenous Peoples' Day)

October 14

 

  Parent Teacher Association (PTA) Meeting

October 15

 

3 Hour Early Release - 1:05 p.m. Dismissal

October 21

 

Fall Picture Day Makeups

October 23

 

March with CES in the Annandale Parade!

October 26

6720 Alpine Drive, Annandale, VA 22003  | Main Office: 703-916-2500
Attendance: 703-916-2525 | Web | Twitter

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

September PTA Meeting Tonight!

 

Dear CES friends and families,

 

Our September PTA meeting will be held tonight at 7pm in the library. Everyone is welcome and feel free to join in person or online via the zoom link below:

 

https://myfcpsk12.zoom.us/j/91903873132

Meeting ID: 919 0387 3132

One tap mobile

+13092053325,,91903873132# US

 

 

Take care,

 

Mike Astudillo

Proud Principal

Columbia Elementary School

6720 Alpine Drive, Annandale, VA 22003  | Main Office: 703-916-2500
Attendance: 703-916-2525 | Web | Twitter