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Chesterbrook Yearbook Distribution

The time has come for students to receive the beautiful yearbook for 2022-2023 school year! Thank you to Sarah Gilbert for all her work to 

Yearbooks will be distributed early this week to all students who purchased one.  Remaining yearbooks will be sold after the initial distribution is completed.

Wednesday morning, any student wishing to purchase a yearbook, can bring $20 cash or check to the front office to Mrs. Flores. Checks should be made out to "Chesterbrook Elementary."

No holds will be placed on yearbook sales for Wednesday and no cash or checks will be collected prior to Wednesday. 

1753 Kirby Road, McLean, VA 22101  |  Main Phone: 703.714.8200 
Attendance: 703.714.8282 | Web | Twitter

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Summer is just around the corner!

As we look ahead to the summer, we wanted to share these summer opportunities to focus on reading and attending summer quest.

Chesterbrook Summer Reading

We are encouraging the students to read over the summer. This could include books that are read independently or as a family. Sometimes books of interest are still too challenging so it is ok to have support as needed. Students have a choice between two activities to demonstrate their summer reading activities. When we return back to school, students who complete one of the two options, will be recognized for their awesome summer reading.

Reading: Rate the Book

This activity allows you to show the picture, draw or write something about the book, give it a rating, and give some words to describe the book. Completed papers may be sent to the school Attention Mrs. Jennings, dropped off at the front office between July 10 and July 29; emailed to [email protected] or returned to the office or new homeroom teacher between August 21 and August 25th.

Reading Bingo Board

See how many different ways you can get Bingo. Each space has a different reading activity some you can do alone and some you need a friend. Boards can be sent to the school Attention Mrs. Jennings, dropped off at the front office between July 10 and July 29; emailed to [email protected] or returned to the office or new homeroom teacher between August 21 and August 25th.

Activity Bingo Board

Sometimes in summer we find ourselves saying “I’m Bored”. This Bingo board has lots of ideas of a variety of activities that you can use to keep your mind engaged and have fun in the process. See how many different activities you can complete.

Happy Reading!  Mrs. Jennings and Ms. Mann

Summer Quest

Are you still making summer plans? Do you have friends already planning to attend Summer Quest and you would like to join them? Summer Quest has room for you! We have a variety of classes for students of all age levels. Here are just a few, but you can check out the PTA website for more options.

Intro to Spanish (all grades)- Do you know someone who speaks Spanish, but you have a difficult time communicating with them? Do you enjoy learning new languages? Join Ms. Mahoney for Intro to Spanish. She has three different classes based on your grade so you can learn Spanish words and learn the basics of a Spanish Conversation. Bring your friends so you can practice together.

Time to Take the Stage (Grades 1-3) Do you like to be the center of attention? Do you want to work on your reading fluency? Join Mrs. Damerell to do some reader’s theatre plays, poems and other stories that you can practice reading and then put on a performance. You will get to use your creativity to create props for the stories. Sign up with your friends so you can act together.

Fiesta at Chesterbrook (Grades 3-7) Join Ms. Ramos to experience a Fiesta. You will get to experience Hispanic culture, music and some special treats too! You can come party with your friends while doing some arts and crafts!

Introduction to Water Color (Grades 4-7) Have you ever wondered if there was more to water color painting than just the projects you did in early elementary? Calling artists that are interested in stepping up your knowledge of how to use this spectacular medium to create your paintings. Mrs. Bradley will demonstrate some higher level skills and then you will be able to use them on your paintings.

Dream Vision Party (Grades 4-7) Do you enjoy a good party? Are you going to be throwing a party over the summer break? Join Ms. Nalewanski to plan the best party around. You will brainstorm your dream event and then plan it so you are ready to throw a great party for your friends or family. Planning is better with a friend so join together and help each other have the party no one will forget.

Scrapbooking (Grades 4-7) Have you ever wondered how to make a scrapbook of memories? Do you ever think about how you will be able to remember special events like your elementary years when you are older? Ms. Scrabis will teach you and your friends how to preserve these memories and other special events through making your own scrapbook.

DC Marvel Comics (Grades 2-5) Calling all superhero fans! Join Ms. Ramos in learning about our superhero favorites and even some that you may never have heard before. Maybe you will even discover your own inner superhero. You will get to make your own comic as well. Who can resist a summer full of superheroes?

Doll House Builder (Grades 3-7) Are you creative? Do you like to make things with your hands? Have you ever thought about designing a house or furniture? Doll House Builder allows you to take all of those skills and put together your own doll house. Ms. Rudd guides you and then lets your creativity take over. You will get to create the furniture and decorations for each room. You will also be able to make the dolls that will fill your house. This camp will give you a project you will be proud to show off.

Reused, Recycled Art (Grades 1-3) Do you ever stop to think about how that paper towel tube could be used ? Do you see the recycle bin as a treasure chest? Ms. Bradley will help you turn something old into something new. You will start searching for ways to make things you are proud of from something that was about to be thrown away.

American Girl (Grades 2-7) Do you have an American Girl Doll? Do you enjoy talking to others that have American Girl Dolls? Do you enjoy hearing the stories that go along with each doll? How about bringing your doll to Summer Quest so you can have a tea party? Gather your friends and your dolls and come join us for an action packed camp. Ms. Rudd has a lot of fun activities to do while you learn about a variety of the dolls.

1753 Kirby Road, McLean, VA 22101  |  Main Phone: 703.714.8200 
Attendance: 703.714.8282 | Web | Twitter

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

Resending with Updated Links to Summer Reading Documents

Summer is just around the corner!

As we look ahead to the summer, we wanted to share these summer opportunities to focus on reading and attending summer quest.

Chesterbrook Summer Reading

We are encouraging the students to read over the summer. This could include books that are read independently or as a family. Sometimes books of interest are still too challenging so it is ok to have support as needed. Students have a choice between two activities to demonstrate their summer reading activities. When we return back to school, students who complete one of the two options, will be recognized for their awesome summer reading.

Reading: Rate the Book

This activity allows you to show the picture, draw or write something about the book, give it a rating, and give some words to describe the book. Completed papers may be sent to the school Attention Mrs. Jennings, dropped off at the front office between July 10 and July 29; emailed to [email protected] or returned to the office or new homeroom teacher between August 21 and August 25th.

Reading Bingo Board

See how many different ways you can get Bingo. Each space has a different reading activity some you can do alone and some you need a friend. Boards can be sent to the school Attention Mrs. Jennings, dropped off at the front office between July 10 and July 29; emailed to [email protected] or returned to the office or new homeroom teacher between August 21 and August 25th.

Activity Bingo Board

Sometimes in summer we find ourselves saying “I’m Bored”. This Bingo board has lots of ideas of a variety of activities that you can use to keep your mind engaged and have fun in the process. See how many different activities you can complete.

Happy Reading!  Mrs. Jennings and Ms. Mann

Summer Quest

Are you still making summer plans? Do you have friends already planning to attend Summer Quest and you would like to join them? Summer Quest has room for you! We have a variety of classes for students of all age levels. Here are just a few, but you can check out the PTA website for more options.

Intro to Spanish (all grades)- Do you know someone who speaks Spanish, but you have a difficult time communicating with them? Do you enjoy learning new languages? Join Ms. Mahoney for Intro to Spanish. She has three different classes based on your grade so you can learn Spanish words and learn the basics of a Spanish Conversation. Bring your friends so you can practice together.

Time to Take the Stage (Grades 1-3) Do you like to be the center of attention? Do you want to work on your reading fluency? Join Mrs. Damerell to do some reader’s theatre plays, poems and other stories that you can practice reading and then put on a performance. You will get to use your creativity to create props for the stories. Sign up with your friends so you can act together.

Fiesta at Chesterbrook (Grades 3-7) Join Ms. Ramos to experience a Fiesta. You will get to experience Hispanic culture, music and some special treats too! You can come party with your friends while doing some arts and crafts!

Introduction to Water Color (Grades 4-7) Have you ever wondered if there was more to water color painting than just the projects you did in early elementary? Calling artists that are interested in stepping up your knowledge of how to use this spectacular medium to create your paintings. Mrs. Bradley will demonstrate some higher level skills and then you will be able to use them on your paintings.

Dream Vision Party (Grades 4-7) Do you enjoy a good party? Are you going to be throwing a party over the summer break? Join Ms. Nalewanski to plan the best party around. You will brainstorm your dream event and then plan it so you are ready to throw a great party for your friends or family. Planning is better with a friend so join together and help each other have the party no one will forget.

Scrapbooking (Grades 4-7) Have you ever wondered how to make a scrapbook of memories? Do you ever think about how you will be able to remember special events like your elementary years when you are older? Ms. Scrabis will teach you and your friends how to preserve these memories and other special events through making your own scrapbook.

DC Marvel Comics (Grades 2-5) Calling all superhero fans! Join Ms. Ramos in learning about our superhero favorites and even some that you may never have heard before. Maybe you will even discover your own inner superhero. You will get to make your own comic as well. Who can resist a summer full of superheroes?

Doll House Builder (Grades 3-7) Are you creative? Do you like to make things with your hands? Have you ever thought about designing a house or furniture? Doll House Builder allows you to take all of those skills and put together your own doll house. Ms. Rudd guides you and then lets your creativity take over. You will get to create the furniture and decorations for each room. You will also be able to make the dolls that will fill your house. This camp will give you a project you will be proud to show off.

Reused, Recycled Art (Grades 1-3) Do you ever stop to think about how that paper towel tube could be used ? Do you see the recycle bin as a treasure chest? Ms. Bradley will help you turn something old into something new. You will start searching for ways to make things you are proud of from something that was about to be thrown away.

American Girl (Grades 2-7) Do you have an American Girl Doll? Do you enjoy talking to others that have American Girl Dolls? Do you enjoy hearing the stories that go along with each doll? How about bringing your doll to Summer Quest so you can have a tea party? Gather your friends and your dolls and come join us for an action packed camp. Ms. Rudd has a lot of fun activities to do while you learn about a variety of the dolls.

1753 Kirby Road, McLean, VA 22101  |  Main Phone: 703.714.8200 
Attendance: 703.714.8282 | Web | Twitter

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

Happy Last Day of School Chesterbrook Families!

Reminder that today is an early release at 1:35. As 6th grade tradition, our sixth grade students will be clapped out this afternoon. As students pull away our retirees will wave the checkered flag and staff will wave goodbye to our students wishing everyone a wonderful summer.

It has been so rewarding to celebrate learning and growth with our students and families the past couple of weeks. From POG POL in 5th grade, 3rd grade Cites sales, STEAM day explorations and our field day games we have enjoyed watching their growth academically and socially. It's been our pleasure to partner with you to provide the best support. Our children have worked so hard and I am proud of all they have accomplished. We have already been planning into next year and so excited for the great work to continue! 

Thank you to our PTA board and chairpersons for all of the support of afterschool programs, community wide events, family fun nights and financial support for building upgrades. Your time and commitment to support our students and staff is unmatched and we are grateful. This is just a tad of what we accomplished!

• New Electronic Marquee
• Fall Cookout, Kickball Event and Fun Fair
• Landscaping Work (continue to watch the front lawn beautification this summer)
• Support of New Musical Theatre Program
• Hospitality support to spoil our teachers with treats, coffee and luncheons on long days.

There is so much to be thankful as we close this year and gain a little rest to recharge before the new year!

Staff Changes for 2022-23

With the end of a year we say good bye to some amazing members of our staff. While some people have only been with us a short time and others much longer, they have all had a positive impact on the services we provide students and support of colleagues. They will be missed. While we have quite a few changes, rest assured we are fully staff with a talented team of educators joining our Chesterbrook family. We will announce those joining our team later in the summer.

Retirements

Ruth Ott - Kindergarten IA

Faezeh Shahbandeh - IA

Moving from FCPS

Megan Brown, SBTS, is moving back to Pennsylvania and will continue her teaching career.

Sara Eichmeier is leaving FCPS to prepare for her next chapter which we hope she continues to explore her talents in education.

Claire Garrett is leaving FCPS and planning to go back to school.

Marissa Gallo is moving back to New Jersey and continuing as a Special Education teacher.

FCPS Transfers

Kendall Bryant, ESOL – Transferring to Lake Braddock

Michelle Zenk, Music – Transferring to Armstrong ES

Maitland Mann, Librarian – Returning to her love of MS English at Liberty MS

Kate Garner, PE – staying full time at Flint Hill

Rachel Blitch, Strings - sadly has been placed at a different school for her afternoons.

Leave of Absence

Taylor Hutchins will enjoy being a mom as they welcome their first child to their family.

Message From Dr. Fabio E Zuluaga, Region 2 Assistant Superintendent

It is with bittersweet emotions that I am announcing my retirement from Fairfax County Public Schools effective July 1; my last day with the school division will be June 30.  I have been in education for 35 years: 10 years in Kansas City, MO, 11 years in Lexington, KY, and now 14 years in Fairfax. I feel like it is the right time for me to start a new chapter in my life. When I first came to the United States, I started out as a secondary science teacher in Kansas City, MO. I culminated my professional journey by being appointed an assistant superintendent in the best school district in the country: Fairfax. I have had incredible opportunities and gifts during my career, for which I am very grateful. Some of the most amazing gifts I have been given over the years have been the relationships I have been blessed to have with our faculty/staff, students, and families.

 

  Family Resource Center is Open All Summer!

We offer free webinars, confidential consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities.

We encourage families and staff to make an appointment for consultations, especially when requiring an interpreter.

Our office hours are from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Monday - Friday.

FCPS Family Resource Center 2334 Gallows Road, Room 105 (Door 1) Dunn Loring, VA 22027 703-204-3941 [email protected]

Free Virtual Mental Wellness Consultations During Summer 2023

En español (pdf)

The Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) Office of Intervention and Prevention Services will offer free virtual mental wellness consultations this summer from June 26 through August 4. Any Fairfax County parent may request a consultation with a school psychologist or school social worker. Consultations are up to 45-minutes in length and may occur by phone or video conferencing.

There are two types of consultations offered:

• Directly to parents of students in any grade level. This consultation provides an opportunity for parents to receive guidance on how to support their child’s social-emotional, behavioral, or academic functioning. Information about community resources will also be made available.
• Directly to students in middle or high school. This consultation provides support and strategies to students who may be experiencing difficulties with anxiety, mood, behavior, or peer or family interactions; as well as academic challenges such as organization, time-management, or transitions and changes related to school.

We encourage parents to take advantage of this service. 

English: Request a consultation

Español: Solicitar una consulta

1753 Kirby Road, McLean, VA 22101  |  Main Phone: 703.714.8200 
Attendance: 703.714.8282 | Web | Twitter

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Principal's Message

Welcome to our new Chesterbrook Chipmunks! We are looking forward to welcoming our new kindergarten students and those moving into our older grades. We are busy preparing for a fantastic year! More information for the new year will be sent throughout the summer. In the meantime, there are some timely items below for you to check out. Most importantly, let us take the school supplies off your hands and get those ordered through the PTA. The kits are a great way to support and also get your shopping taken care of easily.

Office hours are currently limited. It's best to call the school and make an appointment if you need to stop by as we are limited in staff on site.  I'll be stepping away on vacation starting this Friday through July 7th to spend some much needed time away with my family. I hope everyone is enjoying the summer and we will see you soon!

Sincerely,

Stacy Kirkpatrick
Principal, Chesterbrook ES

Chesterbrook Updates:

• Foreign Language Program Information - Parent Coffee Follow up and Survey
• Family Fun Night - Wednesday, June 28th
• Kindergarten Playdate - Rescheduled, Wednesday, June 28th at 4:30PM
• Order Student School Supplies for the year, save time & support the PTA

Foreign Language in the Elementary School (FLES) Program Information & Updated Community Survey

In early June we held a parent coffee to share information on the FLES program at Chesterbrook. At Chesterbrook, students learn Chinese, a language that was selected in the 2008 community survey to begin the program.  Over the years program needs change and there has been some questions expressed on whether we can offer another option.  In order to evaluate any program needs, a coffee was put together to first share information on the program development, program overview, progress and current stats for middle school language enrollment. You may access the parent coffee information by clicking on this link.

Each family with a rising CES kindergarten to sixth grade student is encouraged to take the FLES survey, which will update our community data.  The last time a survey of the program was its inception in 2008. Click here to take this survey by July 15th. 

Family Fun Night Wednesday, June 28th
Plant with Care & Watch them Grow

Please join us on Wednesday June 28th, after camps and lazy days at the pool, to learn about the essentials of growing trees. We are excited that, weather permitting, the front bed will be re-shaped and prepared for new plantings this week, and our first new trees will be put in during family fun night. This interactive session will include a representative from Wheats Landscaping whose team is performing the work. Kids will get to share what they learned this year about growing plants, ask questions and get their hands dirty. Light refreshments will be served.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Sarah Swinehart at: [email protected]

Rising Kindergarten Playdate

Rescheduled, Wednesday, June 28th

4:30 PM

Join other kindergarten families as we prepare for the new school year. Water and popsicles
will be provided.

Order School Supply Kits for 2023 - 24 School Year

Click Here to Order School Supply Kits

This year the PTA has partnered with a new vendor, Campus Survival Kits, a small local business, to provide our school kits.  

• School kits are available for purchase through their website: 2023-24 Chesterbrook Elementary School Supply Kits
• Costs on the website are tax exclusive! Final prices are provided in the table below.
• Some kits have add-on items that can be added to the base package. For instance, recorders ($6) and Five-star binders ($18) in grade 3 kits. Some parents may use those items from their older children.

1753 Kirby Road, McLean, VA 22101  |  Main Phone: 703.714.8200 
Attendance: 703.714.8282 | Web | Twitter

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

Principal's Message

As we wrap up our summer camps and head into the last few weeks of summer, we are ramping up the work here to open for an amazing year.

The PTA worked many hours to enhance the beauty of our school through the front landscaping project and work to construct a Chesterbrook butterfly garden around the blacktop area of the school as well as beautify the courtyards and to keep our fish and turtles quite happy. Thank you to Sara Swinehart for helping plan and devoting a ton of the work hours to make all these projects happen as well as incredible efforts of Tammy Mehta, Rick Olson and Steve Couchara. 

You will never believe one of our turtles tried to take a trip and ventured into a storm drain in the courtyard. Thank goodness Mr. T and Mrs. Remer take such good care and noticed the turtle had escaped. Lucky for us and him, he was safely rescued by the daring Mrs. Remer. Our turtles and fish love to visit with our students this summer when they have ventured out to the courtyard. Honestly, they love food and really hope someone is coming to feed them. 

Our custodians are busy cleaning rooms, polishing the floors and taking care of the grounds. The work is always plenty in our school and we appreciate them so much!

I hope this email finds you all having a wonderful summer and making special memories. We look forward to seeing you very soon!

Sincerely,

Stacy Kirkpatrick
Principal, Chesterbrook Elementary

In this summer update you will find the following information:

• Upcoming Dates to Note
• Registration - Do not delay!!! 
• Prekindergarten Assessment
• 5th and 6th Grade Student Volunteers Needed (register below)
• REMINDERS from previous newsletters -
  You may still order supply kits!
  Keep up your summer reading!

Upcoming Dates to Note

Thursday, August 10th - New Family Parent Coffee 3PM

Tuesday, August 15th - New Family Tour - 10AM 

Tuesday, August 9th 10:30AM - Kindergarten Playdate 6PM - Playground

August 19th - CES Open House 10 - 11:30 AM Join us to meet your teacher and bring any school supplies to your classroom. School supplies from our vendor will be at Chesterbrook.

Monday, August 21st - 1st Day of School

CES Community Cookout - We look forward to another community event to celebrate our new year.  Date will be sent as scheduled.

September 7th - Back to School Night  6PM - 8:30 PM
Admin and PTA General Session Classroom Sessions
*Any scouting groups that would like a table for BTSN are welcome to reach out to Holley Remer to ask for a table in our pod area.

FCPS 2023-24 school year calendar

School Registration

We need those last minute registrations in! If you are waiting because it's only July and you still have time, please don't delay, contact Dave Troskey to finish your school registration today! Call our office at 703-714-8200.

Online Registration is available

Families are able to register their new FCPS students electronically via SIS ParentVUE. Directions to setting up a SIS ParentVUE account are on the online registration page. 

The new system reduces manual data entry of basic student registration at all schools, allows online registration using the portal at any hour of any day, and enables secure electronic upload of student registration documents and storage, reducing paper records management. Parents/Guardians will continue to have the option of downloading the registration form bundle or paper registration forms as needed. Visit our website for more information on registering your child.

Prekindergarten Assessment 

If you have not done so, please sign up for a prekindergarten assessment time. We want to get to know your child! Students that attended summer quest were assessed. We are offering two testing dates for you to choose from:

Wednesday, August 9th or Thursday, August 10th

https://tinyurl.com/kindergartenclass2036 

Thank you! 😊 The Kindergarten Team

5th and 6th Grade  Volunteers are Needed

Rising 5th and 6th grade students are needed for a couple volunteer opportunities as we begin the year. If your child is interested, parents are asked to complete this form.

• Tour Guides (6th only)
• Technology Setup and Preparation (5th or 6th)
• Art Projects to Welcome our Community (5th or 6th)

Specific details for time and opportunities will be shared directly with student volunteers and the parent who signs them up. 

 Complete this Google form to sign up to Volunteer

2023-24 5th & 6th Grade Student Ambassadors

Fifth and Sixth graders will have an opportunity to apply for a student ambassador position soon. An application process is being prepared for the new school year. This is a great opportunity to grow in leadership and responsibility to support the school and community. To become a Chesterbrook Ambassador, students will be required to attend an orientation and regular committee meetings.  Those students who cannot commit to the training and meetings during the school year will not be on our ambassador roster to serve as a school leader. More details to come!

Order School Supply Kits for 2023 - 24 School Year

It's not too late to order!!!

Click Here to Order School Supply Kits

This year the PTA has partnered with a new vendor, Campus Survival Kits, a small local business, to provide our school kits.  

• School kits are available for purchase through their website: 2023-24 Chesterbrook Elementary School Supply Kits
• Costs on the website are tax exclusive! Final prices are provided in the table below.
• Some kits have add-on items that can be added to the base package. For instance, recorders ($6) and Five-star binders ($18) in grade 3 kits. Some parents may use those items from their older children.

Chesterbrook Summer Reading

We are encouraging the students to read over the summer. This could include books that are read independently or as a family. Sometimes books of interest are still too challenging so it is ok to have support as needed. Students have a choice between two activities to demonstrate their summer reading activities. When we return back to school, students who complete one of the two options, will be recognized for their awesome summer reading.

Reading: Rate the Book

This activity allows you to show the picture, draw or write something about the book, give it a rating, and give some words to describe the book. Completed papers may be sent to the school Attention Mrs. Jennings, dropped off at the front office between July 10 and July 29; emailed to [email protected] or returned to the office or new homeroom teacher between August 21 and August 25th.

Reading Bingo Board

See how many different ways you can get Bingo. Each space has a different reading activity some you can do alone and some you need a friend. Boards can be sent to the school Attention Mrs. Jennings, dropped off at the front office between July 10 and July 29; emailed to [email protected] or returned to the office or new homeroom teacher between August 21 and August 25th.

Activity Bingo Board

Sometimes in summer we find ourselves saying “I’m Bored”. This Bingo board has lots of ideas of a variety of activities that you can use to keep your mind engaged and have fun in the process. See how many different activities you can complete.

Happy Reading!  Mrs. Jennings and Ms. Mann

1753 Kirby Road, McLean, VA 22101  |  Main Phone: 703.714.8200 
Attendance: 703.714.8282 | Web | Twitter

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

Sorry for the resend - Dates for a couple items were incorrect in the previous email. 
Open House is on FRIDAY, 8/18 
Kinder playdate is on Saturday 8/19
Sorry for any confusion!  Save these dates.

Principal's Message

As we wrap up our summer camps and head into the last few weeks of summer, we are ramping up the work here to open for an amazing year.

The PTA worked many hours to enhance the beauty of our school through the front landscaping project and work to construct a Chesterbrook butterfly garden around the blacktop area of the school as well as beautify the courtyards and to keep our fish and turtles quite happy. Thank you to Sara Swinehart for helping plan and devoting a ton of the work hours to make all these projects happen as well as incredible efforts of Tammy Mehta, Rick Olson and Steve Couchara. 

You will never believe one of our turtles tried to take a trip and ventured into a storm drain in the courtyard. Thank goodness Mr. T and Mrs. Remer take such good care and noticed the turtle had escaped. Lucky for us and him, he was safely rescued by the daring Mrs. Remer. Our turtles and fish love to visit with our students this summer when they have ventured out to the courtyard. Honestly, they love food and really hope someone is coming to feed them. 

Our custodians are busy cleaning rooms, polishing the floors and taking care of the grounds. The work is always plenty in our school and we appreciate them so much!

I hope this email finds you all having a wonderful summer and making special memories. We look forward to seeing you very soon!

Sincerely,

Stacy Kirkpatrick
Principal, Chesterbrook Elementary

9In this summer update you will find the following information:

• Upcoming Dates to Note
• Registration - Do not delay!!! 
• Prekindergarten Assessment
• 5th and 6th Grade Student Volunteers Needed (register below)
• REMINDERS from previous newsletters -
  You may still order supply kits!
  Keep up your summer reading!

Upcoming Dates to Note

Thursday, August 10th - New Family Parent Coffee 3PM

Tuesday, August 15th - New Family Tour - 10AM 

Friday, August 18th - CES Open House 10 - 11:30 AM Join us to meet your teacher and bring any school supplies to your classroom. School supplies from our vendor will be at Chesterbrook.

Tuesday, August 19th 10:30AM - Kindergarten Playdate 6PM - Playground

Monday, August 21st - 1st Day of School, School Arrival begins 8:30AM, School Begins at 8:50

CES Community Cookout - We look forward to another community event to celebrate our new year.  Date will be sent as scheduled.

September 7th - Back to School Night  6PM - 8:30 PM
Admin and PTA General Session Classroom Sessions
*Any scouting groups that would like a table for BTSN are welcome to reach out to Holley Remer to ask for a table in our pod area.

FCPS 2023-24 school year calendar

School Registration

We need those last minute registrations in! If you are waiting because it's only July and you still have time, please don't delay, contact Dave Troskey to finish your school registration today! Call our office at 703-714-8200.

Online Registration is available

Families are able to register their new FCPS students electronically via SIS ParentVUE. Directions to setting up a SIS ParentVUE account are on the online registration page. 

The new system reduces manual data entry of basic student registration at all schools, allows online registration using the portal at any hour of any day, and enables secure electronic upload of student registration documents and storage, reducing paper records management. Parents/Guardians will continue to have the option of downloading the registration form bundle or paper registration forms as needed. Visit our website for more information on registering your child.

Prekindergarten Assessment 

If you have not done so, please sign up for a prekindergarten assessment time. We want to get to know your child! Students that attended summer quest were assessed. We are offering two testing dates for you to choose from:

Wednesday, August 9th or Thursday, August 10th

https://tinyurl.com/kindergartenclass2036 

Thank you! 😊 The Kindergarten Team

5th and 6th Grade  Volunteers are Needed

Rising 5th and 6th grade students are needed for a couple volunteer opportunities as we begin the year. If your child is interested, parents are asked to complete this form.

• Tour Guides (6th only)
• Technology Setup and Preparation (5th or 6th)
• Art Projects to Welcome our Community (5th or 6th)

Specific details for time and opportunities will be shared directly with student volunteers and the parent who signs them up. 

 Complete this Google form to sign up to Volunteer

2023-24 5th & 6th Grade Student Ambassadors

Fifth and Sixth graders will have an opportunity to apply for a student ambassador position soon. An application process is being prepared for the new school year. This is a great opportunity to grow in leadership and responsibility to support the school and community. To become a Chesterbrook Ambassador, students will be required to attend an orientation and regular committee meetings.  Those students who cannot commit to the training and meetings during the school year will not be on our ambassador roster to serve as a school leader. More details to come!

Order School Supply Kits for 2023 - 24 School Year

It's not too late to order!!!

Click Here to Order School Supply Kits

This year the PTA has partnered with a new vendor, Campus Survival Kits, a small local business, to provide our school kits.  

• School kits are available for purchase through their website: 2023-24 Chesterbrook Elementary School Supply Kits
• Costs on the website are tax exclusive! Final prices are provided in the table below.
• Some kits have add-on items that can be added to the base package. For instance, recorders ($6) and Five-star binders ($18) in grade 3 kits. Some parents may use those items from their older children.

Chesterbrook Summer Reading

We are encouraging the students to read over the summer. This could include books that are read independently or as a family. Sometimes books of interest are still too challenging so it is ok to have support as needed. Students have a choice between two activities to demonstrate their summer reading activities. When we return back to school, students who complete one of the two options, will be recognized for their awesome summer reading.

Reading: Rate the Book

This activity allows you to show the picture, draw or write something about the book, give it a rating, and give some words to describe the book. Completed papers may be sent to the school Attention Mrs. Jennings, dropped off at the front office between July 10 and July 29; emailed to [email protected] or returned to the office or new homeroom teacher between August 21 and August 25th.

Reading Bingo Board

See how many different ways you can get Bingo. Each space has a different reading activity some you can do alone and some you need a friend. Boards can be sent to the school Attention Mrs. Jennings, dropped off at the front office between July 10 and July 29; emailed to [email protected] or returned to the office or new homeroom teacher between August 21 and August 25th.

Activity Bingo Board

Sometimes in summer we find ourselves saying “I’m Bored”. This Bingo board has lots of ideas of a variety of activities that you can use to keep your mind engaged and have fun in the process. See how many different activities you can complete.

Happy Reading!  Mrs. Jennings and Ms. Mann

1753 Kirby Road, McLean, VA 22101  |  Main Phone: 703.714.8200 
Attendance: 703.714.8282 | Web | Twitter

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Principal's Message

We kicked off this week with a return of our staff to Chesterbrook. The building looks amazing as our custodial team has put in many hours to clean and prepare our building for the new year. Our classrooms are quickly warming up with the caring touch of our teachers to create the welcoming  and engaging environment for all our students.

Our grade level teachers this year will include:
Preschool: Ms. Omar, Ms. Luetkenhaus
Kindergarten; Mrs. Soulos, Mrs. Strubhar and Ms. Kuduk
1st Grade: Mrs. Wei and Mrs. LImbaugh
2nd Grade: Ms. Logan, Ms. Butler, Mrs. Gales and Ms. Hancock
3rd Grade: Mrs. Jankowski, Mrs. Hudler, Mrs. Miller
4th Grade: Ms. Flegas, Ms. Nalewanski and Ms. Phelps
5th Grade: Ms. Scrabis, Mrs. Hamsher-King, Ms. King and Ms. Flegas
6th Grade: Ms. Mabile, Mr. Treacy, Mr. Gaba and Mr. Berenato
Special Education Team: Mrs. Kohout, Mrs. Park, Ms. Boehm, Ms. Russo, Mrs. Damerell, Mrs. McGeehan (Department Chair)

We are working to notify all parents of homeroom teachers on Wednesday via email, prior to open house. Thursday, all information will populate in ParentVue. A great deal of time is spent on placing children in the best possible classroom environment.

Transportation information was shared last week via email from the transportation office. If you have questions about your child's route to school, please call our office.

An email will be sent later this week with additional details for our first day and opening week. We look forward to partnering with you this school year to support your child's growth.

Sincerely,

Stacy Kirkpatrick

Helping Prepare Young Children for School

Families play an important role in helping children prepare for kindergarten and having a successful school year. Visit these pages to learn how to actively support your kindergartener:

• Success in Kindergarten Parent Strategies - Learn how to provide a smoother transition to kindergarten (available in nine languages).
• Early Childhood Tips - FCPS’ Early Partnership Team shares information on a wide variety of topics covering learning, feelings, and development.
• Kindergarten Year at a Glance - Get a general overview of the skills kindergarten students will learn throughout the year.

*Access additional elementary grade level Year at a Glance Information here. 

New Family Tours - Tuesday 8/15 10-11AM

We are excited to see our new families at Chesterbrook this morning. We have a group of wonderful tour guides - our rising sixth graders - who are prepared to welcome ALL to our school. Please enter the front of the building and we will meet in the cafeteria. We look forward to seeing you and meeting our new families.

ParentVue

Newly registered parents will need to activate their ParentVue account.  Existing parents do not need to activate. Once you an FCPS ParentVue, the account will remain the same through graduation from high school.

Parentvue is FCPS platform where you can view  your child’s progress reports, standardized test history, classes, as well as other school information. If you have any additional questions, please contact our registrar, Dave Troskey at [email protected].

Need help creating a SIS ParentVUE account? This video walks through the steps. Find out more about SIS ParentVUE.

Free and Reduced Lunch - Apply Now

As we begin the school year, please consider if your family might need support with meals for your child(ren).  The eligibility guidelines are available for review on the FCPS website. Families who are eligible should complete the application before the start of each school year. Approved applications may also qualify students for additional benefits. View the criteria and apply on the Free and Reduced-Price Meals webpage. If your family is in need of further assistance please reach out to [email protected], so our counseling team can support your student.

Are Your Child’s Immunizations and Records Up to Date? 

Immunizations are required for public school entry and help keep students protected from serious diseases. 

While COVID-19 vaccinations are not required, many other immunizations are. Please call the office if you have questions about immunization requirements for students.  

Reminder: CES Summer Reading due soon!

We have been encouraging the students to read over the summer.  When we return back to school, students who complete one of the two options, will be recognized for their awesome summer reading.

Reading: Rate the Book   |     Reading Bingo Board    |   Activity Bingo Board

Completed activities can be sent to the school office, attention of Mrs. Jennings, emailed to [email protected] or returned to the new homeroom teacher by August 25th.

School Supplies

If you ordered school supplies from our PTA vendor, the supplies will be ready for your student at Open House on Friday, 8/19. If you still need to order supplies, you may visit our school supply vendor linked here. While you can order supplies at anytime, please know that these may not arrive for our open house.

Families can bring all school supplies to Open House and leave them in the classroom so students do not need to worry about bringing supplies in with them the first day of school.  

You may access the school supply list here.

School Registration

If you or a new neighbor need to register, please share this information with them. Online Registration is available. Contact our registrar, Dave Troskey, to complete school registration. Call our office at 703-714-8200.

Upcoming Dates to Note

Tuesday, August 15th - New Family Tour - 10AM (Cafeteria)

Friday, August 18th - CES Open House 10 - 11:30 AM Join us to meet your teacher and bring any school supplies to your classroom. School supplies from our vendor will be at Chesterbrook.

Saturday, August 19th 10:30AM - Kindergarten Playdate- Playground

Monday, August 21st - 1st Day of School, School Arrival begins 8:30AM, School Begins at 8:50

CES Community Cookout - We look forward to another community event to celebrate our new year.  Date will be sent as scheduled.

September 7th - Back to School Night  6PM - 8:30 PM Admin and PTA General Session Classroom Sessions *Any scouting groups that would like a table for BTSN are welcome to reach out to Holley Remer to ask for a table in our pod area.

FCPS 2023-24 school year calendar

Meet our New Grade Level Classroom Teachers

*Look for new specialists to be introduced soon!

1753 Kirby Road, McLean, VA 22101  |  Main Phone: 703.714.8200 
Attendance: 703.714.8282 | Web | Twitter

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Good evening!
We are moving closer to our open house with excitement.  I know you all are excited to get your class placements and meet your teachers this week. Our staff returned Monday and for the past three days we have worked tirelessly to get everything ready including loading classes into the electronic information system. It takes 24 hours for all placements to roll over in the system, which will be uploaded tomorrow. Tomorrow you may access parentvue to view homeroom teachers and we will also send an email during the day in case you cannot access Parentvue.

In our class lists, I wanted to let you know I made an error and listed a teacher twice instead of properly listing Ms. Glass as part of our 5th grade team. The list is corrected below.  You may also view our specialists, who will support your children in their electives this year. 

This year our theme is "Together We are Better." There are so many ways that this theme rings true with the foundational work to educate and help our children thrive. First and foremost begins with the teamwork of parent and teacher. As you receive your teacher placement, please know all of our teachers work very hard to get to know your child, build a relationship and understand their needs to ensure they reach their fullest potential. The pool talk is not always what it's hyped up to be and we deeply consider what each child needs during our placement and the combination within the room that makes up our instructional environments. There are many factors including friends, conflicts, academics and more that we work with to create the best possible environment for each and every student. As your child's principal and supervisor of our staff, I implore you to trust the work we have done and the process in which we support your child. Feel free to share more information with your child's teacher as needed and open those lines of communication so we can help each student have their best year. Our staff is one that is hard to come by and as a whole, we are a huge TEAM! Our work during the school day combined with your positive mindset, support and encouragement, I know all of our children will thrive.

Together We are Better!

Sincerely,

Stacy Kirkpatrick, Principal

Chesterbrook Instructional Teams

General Education Homeroom Teachers:
Preschool: Ms. Omar, Ms. Luetkenhaus
Kindergarten; Mrs. Soulos, Mrs. Strubhar and Ms. Kuduk
1st Grade: Mrs. Wei and Mrs. Limbaugh
2nd Grade: Ms. Logan, Ms. Butler, Mrs. Gales and Ms. Hancock
3rd Grade: Mrs. Jankowski, Mrs. Hudler, Mrs. Miller
4th Grade: Ms. Flegas, Ms. Nalewanski and Ms. Phelps
5th Grade: Ms. Scrabis, Mrs. Hamsher-King, Ms. King and Ms. Glass
6th Grade: Ms. Mabile, Mr. Treacy, Mr. Gaba and Mr. Berenato
Special Education Team: Mrs. Kohout, Mrs. Park, Ms. Boehm, Ms. Russo, Mrs. Damerell, Mrs. McGeehan (Department Chair)

Our Specialists Team:
Music: Mr. Morris, Mrs. Rye-An (Tuesday/Thursday)
Band: Mrs. DeRosa (afternoons)
Strings: Mrs. Su (afternoons)
Art: Mrs. Lopez
Chinese: Ms. Leung
Library: Mrs. Schorr
AART: Mrs. Vallath
ESOL: Mrs. Ridgway
SBTS: Mrs. Lee

What will my Child Learn this Year 

Elementary grade level Year at a Glance Information here. 

School Registration

If you or a new neighbor need to register, please share this information with them. Online Registration is available. Contact our registrar, Dave Troskey, to complete school registration. Call our office at 703-714-8200.

Introducing some more new faces on the team! Reminders Previously Shared Upcoming Dates to Note

Tuesday, August 15th - New Family Tour - 10AM (Cafeteria)

Friday, August 18th - CES Open House 10 - 11:30 AM Join us to meet your teacher and bring any school supplies to your classroom. School supplies from our vendor will be at Chesterbrook.

Saturday, August 19th 10:30AM - Kindergarten Playdate- Playground

Monday, August 21st - 1st Day of School, School Arrival begins 8:30AM, School Begins at 8:50

CES Community Cookout - We look forward to another community event to celebrate our new year.  Date will be sent as scheduled.

September 7th - Back to School Night  6PM - 8:30 PM Admin and PTA General Session Classroom Sessions *Any scouting groups that would like a table for BTSN are welcome to reach out to Holley Remer to ask for a table in our pod area.

FCPS 2023-24 school year calendar

ParentVue

Newly registered parents will need to activate their ParentVue account.  Existing parents do not need to activate. Once you an FCPS ParentVue, the account will remain the same through graduation from high school.

Parentvue is FCPS platform where you can view  your child’s progress reports, standardized test history, classes, as well as other school information. If you have any additional questions, please contact our registrar, Dave Troskey at [email protected].

Need help creating a SIS ParentVUE account? This video walks through the steps. Find out more about SIS ParentVUE.

Free and Reduced Lunch - Apply Now

As we begin the school year, please consider if your family might need support with meals for your child(ren).  The eligibility guidelines are available for review on the FCPS website. Families who are eligible should complete the application before the start of each school year. Approved applications may also qualify students for additional benefits. View the criteria and apply on the Free and Reduced-Price Meals webpage. If your family is in need of further assistance please reach out to [email protected], so our counseling team can support your student.

School Supplies

Families can bring all school supplies to Open House and leave them in the classroom so students do not need to worry about bringing supplies in with them the first day of school.  You may access the school supply list here.

School Supplies Have Been Delivered!

Thank  you to our PTA for organizing a new vendor, Campus Survival Kits, for school supplies! Thank you to the Chugunov family who helped with delivery to the hallways today.  Kits are located in each hallway and labelled with the names of those that purchased.

If your family is in need of support, we would love to help with supplies.  Please reach out to CES counselor, Heather Lomelin.

1753 Kirby Road, McLean, VA 22101  |  Main Phone: 703.714.8200 
Attendance: 703.714.8282 | Web | Twitter

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

2023 2024 Opening Day is Here!

We are excited to welcome our Chipmunks tomorrow morning! We hope you find this information helpful as we start the 2023-24 school year. 

Kiss N Ride Procedures

We will be making Hang Tags with last names for all K&R families.  Until we are able to distribute, we ask all families to have a paper with last name written large to display in your car at dismissal. Afterschool center vans and small buses will pick up from Kiss N Ride.

Students will wait in the gym until your car has arrived. We will announce the name of the child and they will meet you at the K&R loop.

Walkers and Bike Riders

Kirby Road is not a safe area for all children to ride a bike or walk alone due to the heavy traffic, especially during arrival and dismissal. Parents are encouraged to walk or bike with their child if you would like this option.  Older students in grades 4th – 6th with parent permission may complete a request to walk/ride without an adult. The request will be reviewed by the principal and permission must be received prior to any student walking or biking alone. This is for our children’s safety, so please do not rush the approval process. 

If walking/biking, the crosswalk closest to the parking lot has the highest visibility for crossing and would be the safest crosswalk to use during arrival and dismissal.

We do have a new area of walkers next to the school that are designated by FCPS to walk.  These families do not need to complete a form.

Walker Drop Off and Pick Up

We will continue with two areas for parent drop off and pickup.  The flag pole and trailer area by the tables will be parent meet up areas after school for students. Please tell your child where they should meet you after school and write it on their nametag so we can develop a routine. Due to the volume and safety in monitoring students, students being picked up by the trailers will wait in the gym for their name to be called.

1st Day Photos

Parents are welcome to walk children up to the outside of the school on the first day and take those special first day photos.  Please be mindful of buses arriving and provide spacing to our students to enter the building safely. We ask parents not to gather and remain under the front entrance.

If you would like to park at the pool parking lot and walk across with your child to capture these special photos, use the crosswalk nearest to the flag pole and walk with your child.

Breakfast and Lunch Accounts

Breakfast will begin on day 2, so please make sure your children eat the first day of school. Breakfast will be available from 8:30 - 8:50. My School Bucks will be used for lunch purchases and parents can load funds on the account to cover the cost of meals. Children may not share lunch accounts, so please ensure you have deposited funds for each student.

Add money to your child's account using www.MySchoolBucks.com
Once the account is open, parents can check the fund account at anytime.
More information can be found here.  Chesterbrook Lunch Menu

CES Grade Level Contact Directory Opt-Out by 8/25

Each year teachers are asked by many families to provide parent contact information, which can be very helpful in planning playdates or parties outside of school. Room parents will also use contact information to coordinate class activities and parties coordinated with the grade level teachers. If you would like to opt out of sharing contact information with your grade level parents, please complete this google form. Grade level contact information will be shared with parents through schoology once it is ready. The PTA directory is a separate opt in system.

Lunch Volunteers for 23-24

Are you new to Chesterbrook or would you like to be a lunch room volunteer? We have found great value in having additional parent support during lunches to assist with student needs and help support student behavior. We work with consistent trained volunteers that can build relationships with kids throughout the year which further supports positive behaviors during lunch time, so ask parents to commit to weekly support or regular subbing if taking on this opportunity. If you are interested in supporting in this role, please fill out this google form. More information will be shared.

PTA Fall Enrichment Programs

The Fall Enrichment Programs are gearing up! If you are looking for before and after school activities this fall please check the website for a list of classes including Fitness Warriors, Pottery Painting, computer coding and so much more! Click here for more information

Girls On The Run

Sign Up Today! Program Registration is Open NOW

Chesterbrook will offer Girls on the Run this Fall coached by Chesterbrook parent alums, Laura Zimmitti and Veronica Sweeney. The group will meet after school on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons from 3:35 to 4:55pm. Participants are  expected to attend both practices each week. The program begins September 12, and ends with the 5k weekend, November 18-19. Please visit our website for more information and registration. 

Community Cookout and Potluck is Coming Soon!

Tuesday, August 29th 5:30 - 7PM

Please sign up to join us and bring a dish to share. 

Click Here to Sign Up

Upcoming Dates

Monday, August 21st - 1st Day of School, School Arrival begins 8:30AM, School Begins at 8:50

Tuesday, 8/29 CES Community Cookout and Potluck - We look forward to another community event to celebrate our new year. 

August 31st - 9:15AM PTA Meeting (Cafeteria)

September 1st - 4th - Holiday - No School - Offices closed

September 7th - Back to School Night

5:45 - 6:30 - PTA Meeting (classrooms and hallways are not open)

6:30 - General Sessions Begin for Classrooms (we will run 3 sessions)

*Any scouting groups that would like a table for BTSN are welcome to reach out to Holley Remer to ask for a table in our pod area.

FCPS 2023-24 school year calendar

Reminders from previous editons: What will my Child Learn this Year 

Elementary grade level Year at a Glance Information here. 

Free and Reduced Lunch - Apply Now

The eligibility guidelines are available for review on the FCPS website. . View the criteria and apply on the Free and Reduced-Price Meals webpage. If your family is in need of further assistance please reach out to [email protected], so our counseling team can support your student.

ParentVue

Newly registered parents will need to activate their ParentVue account.  Existing parents do not need to activate. Once you an FCPS ParentVue, the account will remain the same through graduation from high school.

Parentvue is FCPS platform where you can view  your child’s progress reports, standardized test history, classes, as well as other school information. If you have any additional questions, please contact our registrar, Dave Troskey at [email protected].

Need help creating a SIS ParentVUE account? This video walks through the steps. Find out more about SIS ParentVUE.

1753 Kirby Road, McLean, VA 22101  |  Main Phone: 703.714.8200 
Attendance: 703.714.8282 | Web | Facebook