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Principal's Message

Dear Whitman Middle School Families,

As we approach the week of December 9th, here are a few important updates and reminders to keep everyone informed and prepared:

Punctuality is Key Students are reminded to arrive on time and be in their classrooms when the bell rings. Being punctual sets the tone for a productive and successful day of learning.

Morning Routine For students who do not eat breakfast in the morning, please remind them to head directly to their first-period class upon arrival. Additionally, students who have finished eating breakfast should also report promptly to their first-period class. A smooth start to the day begins with being present and ready to learn.

Stay on Top of Grades and Assignments Parents, please take a moment to review your student’s grades and assignments in ParentVue. Staying informed is essential to supporting your child’s academic success. If you have questions or need assistance accessing ParentVue, feel free to contact our Student Services Office for support.

Winter Events Reminder We’re excited to share the following upcoming winter performances:

• Chorus Concert – Tuesday, December 10th, at 6:00 PM
• Winter Band Concert – Thursday, December 12th, at 6:00 PM

These events are wonderful opportunities to celebrate our students’ hard work and talent. We hope to see you there!

Thank you for your continued support in helping our Wildcats succeed. Let’s make it another fantastic week at Whitman!

School Boundaries Meeting Federal Impact Aid Survey

A paper copy of the Federal Impact Aid Survey has been sent home with your child last week.  The Survey is also available electronically through your ParentVUE account.  If you do the Survey online, there is no need to do the paper copy.  Please be sure you follow the guidelines and check the corresponding box.  Please fill out Section 1, 2, 3 or 4 and the form must be signed and dated ad return to school. 

Impact Aid programs and grants are designed to assist local school districts that enroll federally connected students.

Please click on this link to learn more.   Federal Impact Aid Survey 2024 - YouTube

1. Section 1 Guidelines – Military
2. US Military - All the items below MUST be noted if parent is US Military

• Parent Name
• Military Rank/Grade
• Branch of Service
• COPY of Activation Orders attached to the back of the survey form when applicable

1. Foreign Military - All the items below MUST be noted if parent is Foreign Military

• Parent Name
• Military Rank
• Branch of Service
• Foreign Government Name

1. Section 2 Guidelines – Civilian Working on Federal Property
2. The following is required:

• Parent Name
• Company or Agency Name (Employer)
• Federal Property box checked (at least ONE)

1. If the “Other” box is checked, make sure there is an Employer Name and Full Address
2. Section 3 Guidelines – Lives on Federal Property (Fort Belvoir)
3. Section 4 Guidelines: If Sections 1, 2, or 3 are not filled in, this box needs to be checked.

 

How to get access to the Survey through your ParentVUE

Step 1: Log in to SIS ParentVUE

Step 2: Select the “Online Packets” tab

Step 3: From the tiles at the bottom of the page, select the 2024-2025 Federal Impact Aid Survey.

Yearbooks on Sale Click HERE to order your 2024-2025 Yearbook Winter Break (Student Holiday)

Winter break is Monday, December 23, 2025 through Friday, January 3, 2025. To help make sure you and your children have a restful break, we have asked that no homework be assigned during this time. Teachers may assign long-range assignments in the weeks before the break, allowing students to practice time management skills, but no assignments will be due immediately after the break.

Classes resume on Monday, January 6, 2025. We look forward to welcoming students back in the new year!

See the complete school year calendar.

Attendance is Important Every Day

The weeks surrounding winter break often include more empty seats in classrooms. Every hour of every school day is a unique opportunity for students to learn, connect, and grow. Let’s nurture a rock-solid attendance habit.

A big thank you to:

• 🌟 Students who show up daily and the parents/caregivers supporting them.
• 👩‍🏫 Teachers who create a welcoming environment for learning.
• 👨‍💼 Administrators who provide a safe and engaging place to grow.
• 👏 Bus drivers, support staff, and volunteers who help our learners. 

If you or your child need support, please contact a school counselor, social worker, or family liaison. 

If your child is not feeling well, please refer to our guidance on when to keep your child home.

Find more attendance resources.

Webinar on Overcoming School Resistance

Does your child resist going to school or refuse to go? If so, join the Family Resource Center’s School Resistance webinar on Friday, January 10, 10-11:30 p.m. The webinar will explore how to take care of yourself in the heat of the moment and set supportive boundaries at home. Register in advance.

✨ Student attendance is one measure of Strategic Plan Goal 2: Safe, Supported, Included, and Empowered.

Chipotle Fundraiser Bundle Up With Books Over Break

Fairfax County Public Library’s winter reading adventure has begun and will continue through Friday, January 31, 2025. Visit your local FCPL branch or their Winter Reading Adventure website to register and get a sneak peek at the prizes being offered.

Check out their Winter Reading Events webpage to learn about laser tag, movie nights, crafting sessions, Noon-Year Eve celebrations, and book discussions.

Support Literacy At Home

Looking for ways to help support your child’s reading and writing at home? Visit the FCPS Literacy Resource page for tips and information about the Virginia Language and Literacy Screening System.

Get Outdoors For Winter Fun

The Fairfax County Park Authority has rounded up its seasonal fun into a handy list of events happening across the county. 

Learn more about the Winter Wonderland and the Holiday Train at Burke Lake Park, Holiday on the Farm at Frying Pan Farm Park, the Holiday Lantern Tour at Colvin Run Mill, and many more fun events.

Holiday Market & Community Breakfast Winter Basketball Camp Whitman Family Market

2500 Parkers Ln Alexandria, VA 22306  | Main Office: 703-660-2400
Attendance: 703-660-2424 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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Principal's Message

Dear Whitman Middle School Families,

I hope this message finds you well as we transition from a time of Thanksgiving into the final weeks of the first semester. With the holiday season upon us, our focus remains on creating a safe and enriching environment where our students thrive academically and socially.

This week, we encourage our students to maintain strong momentum in their learning. With the second quarter well underway, it’s a great time to check in with your child about their progress. Don’t forget, our teachers are always available for support, and we’re happy to partner with you to ensure every student succeeds.

Thank you for your ongoing support and collaboration. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Warm regards,

John Flowers, Principal

Holiday Schedule School is Closed:  Wednesday, November 27th Thursday, November 28th Friday, November 29th Happy Thanksgiving!!

 

Boundary Review Community Meetings Social & Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener Results Coming Soon

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

 

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

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

Science Study Sessions

Students who did not perform well on the Unit 1 Science assessment will have the opportunity to retest. The retests will take place during advisory sessions the week of December 10-13 and December 16-20. Students will receive passes for a study session, which will include review and reteaching. On the day of the retest, students will receive a pass to retake the test. Notifications will be given to students in class.

Reminder: Window for Full-Time AAP Referrals Closes on December 15, 2024

Parents/guardians of students in Grades 2-7 who would like their student to be considered for Full-Time advanced academic programs may submit the AAP Full-Time Referral Form to Whitman's Advanced Academic Resource Teacher (AART), Phoebe Suarez at [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 Phoebe Suarez at [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.

Yearbooks Are Going Fast... Only 166 Copies Left for Over 600 Students.  Order Today Before they are All Gone! Whitman Family Market MVHS Community Breakfast MVHS Holiday Market

2500 Parkers Ln Alexandria, VA 22306  | Main Office: 703-660-2400
Attendance: 703-660-2424 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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Principal's Message

Dear Whitman Families - 

We are pleased to announce that Mount Vernon District Representative, Mateo Dunne, will be the guest speaker at our upcoming PTSA General Meeting on Tuesday, November 19, at 6:00 p.m. Mr. Dunne will discuss the forthcoming Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) boundary reassessment, a process that aims to eliminate “island” schools—schools, like Whitman, where all students reside outside of the designated boundary area.

This reassessment will significantly impact both Whitman Middle School and Mount Vernon High School, making it an important issue for our community. We encourage you to attend to learn more about the proposed changes and to understand how you can provide feedback to Mr. Dunne and the FCPS School Board. Please spread the word to help ensure that all voices in our community are represented!

In addition, we’re excited to offer a ParentVue tutorial session on Wednesday, November 20, at 3:00 p.m. This is a great opportunity for parents to learn how to use ParentVue to stay updated on your child’s academic progress, attendance, and more.

Lastly, on Thursday, please join us for our Multicultural Family Night at 6:00 p.m.! Come enjoy an evening filled with delicious food, vibrant dances, and festive activities that celebrate cultures from all around the world. It’s a wonderful chance for our community to come together, share traditions, and celebrate our diversity.

Important PTSA Meeting with School Board Member Mateo Dunne ParentVue Tutorial Multicultural Family Night Mark Your Calendar! Yearbooks Are Going Fast - Order Before It's Too Late! Order School Pictures Whitman Family Markets

2500 Parkers Ln Alexandria, VA 22306  | Main Office: 703-660-2400
Attendance: 703-660-2424 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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Principal's Message

Dear Whitman Middle School Families,

As we settle into the rhythm of fall, November brings us an opportunity to focus on gratitude, growth, and community. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to our dedicated staff, students, and families for your continued support and commitment to making Whitman a welcoming, thriving place for all.

This month, we’re emphasizing the importance of academic responsibility and building a positive school culture. With the end of the semester approaching, it’s a great time for students to reflect on their progress and set new goals. Encourage your child to stay organized, complete assignments on time, and seek help when needed. Remember, our teachers, counselors, and staff are here to support them every step of the way.

November is also a time to give back. Volunteer initiatives are underway, and it’s inspiring to see students taking pride in helping our community. These acts of kindness not only make a difference for those in need but also strengthen the values of empathy and compassion in our students.

Thank you for your continued involvement and support. Let’s work together to make this month a successful and fulfilling one for everyone in our Whitman Middle School community.

Warm regards,

John Flowers, Principal

Attendance is Important

Each month (with the exception of December), Student Services will be hosting an attendance incentive for students. Our “Donuts for Days” incentive for September was a huge hit! For the month of October, Whitman is having a 7th vs. 8th grade “No tricks, just treats!” challenge. The grade level with the least amount of missed days at the end of October will receive a special treat! Coming up, we will have the much anticipated “Inflatable Race” for November and the “Atten-dance” in January.

 

Parents have a huge influence on students when it comes to attendance.  Attending school regularly helps students feel better about school—and themselves. It is important for you to reinforce the idea that going to school on time, every day is important. 

• Help your child maintain daily routines, such as finishing homework and getting a good night’s sleep.
• Try not to schedule dental and medical appointments during the school day. If they are necessary, please make sure they attend school before and/or after the appointment.
• Talk to your child about why going to school every day is important unless they are sick.
• Don’t let your child stay home unless they are truly sick.
• Help your teen stay engaged by asking questions about what he is learning in school, using ParentVUE to check progress on assignments, and seeking help from teachers or tutors if necessary. Make sure teachers know how to contact you.
• Get to know your child’s friends and listen when they talk about someone new, or stop talking about an old friend. Peer pressure can lead to skipping school, while students without many friends can feel isolated.
• Encourage your child to stay afterschool for academic support or involvement in clubs.  
• Know the school’s attendance policy. 
• Check on your student’s attendance to be sure absences are not piling up.  
• If your child seems reluctant to go to school, find out why and talk to teachers, school counselors, or other parents for advice on how to make them feel comfortable and excited about learning. Keep in mind complaints of a stomach ache or headache can be a sign of anxiety and not a reason to stay home.
• Reach out to your child’s school counselor or social worker if you are experiencing tough times such as unstable housing, transportation or health problems.  

Parent Coffee - November 12th ParentVue Workshop Yearbooks Are Going Fast... Advanced Academic Program

The Advanced Academic Program (AAP) develops the strengths and talents of all students and offers advanced academic services at all grade levels to meet a broad range of student needs. As the Advanced Academic Resource Teacher (AART) at Whitman, some of my primary responsibilities include supporting teachers in differentiating instruction for advanced learners, supporting Twice Exceptional Learners, providing wrap around supports and services to Young Scholars, support the division wide implementation of the Honors Framework, and support our new Local Full-Time Cluster Grouping Model.

Please visit the FCPS AAP website for more information.

 

ATTENTION 7th Grade Families: 

Whitman Middle School's Local Full-Time AAP Cluster Grouping Model Information

• Students attending the Local Full-Time AAP Cluster Group at Whitman will be grouped by their centrally eligible AA Full-Time designation in English, Science, and Social Studies.
• To join the Local Full-Time Cluster Group, students must be centrally screened and found eligible for Full-Time services. To be considered for Full-Time eligibility, submit a referral form to your AART by December 15, 2024.
• Referrals for Advanced Academic Programs Full-Time services can be initiated by parents/guardians, school staff, or the student themselves.
• Screening referral forms and any optional materials must be submitted to the Advanced Academic Resource Teacher (AART) by the posted deadline. No late submissions will be accepted.
• Eligibility is determined by the central screening committee, not by the school.
• Parents/guardians will be notified in writing of the eligibility decision and have the right to appeal within the specified timeframe.
• Reminder: Students zoned for Whitman Middle School will attend Mt. Vernon High School.

For any questions or concerns, please contact Phoebe Suarez, Advanced Academic Resource Teacher (AART) [email protected].

Parent Conversation - Nov. 22nd Tutoring Resources for Families

Some families may be looking for additional resources to help support their child’s academic success. The Family Resource Center (FRC) maintains a list of FCPS employees who hold a valid Virginia teaching credential and who are available to hire as a tutor. This list is a resource offered by the FRC, but families are responsible for contacting and working directly with the tutors. This list is not “approved” by FCPS and is only meant as a resource to families.

FCPS also partners with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors' services at no cost, including weekly live online classes, on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring, essay editing, and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests.

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

Applications for Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology Due Friday, Nov. 15th

Middle school students who have an aptitude and passion for STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) are encouraged to apply for admission to the Class of 2029 at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology.

Applications must be started by 4 p.m., Wednesday, November 13, and submitted by Friday, November 15, at 4 p.m.

Whitman Family Market Holiday Basket Sale

2500 Parkers Ln Alexandria, VA 22306  | Main Office: 703-660-2400
Attendance: 703-660-2424 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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Principal's Message

Dear Whitman Middle School Families,

As we move into the final week of October, I want to take a moment to thank you all for your continued support and involvement in our school community. Your partnership is key to our students' success, and we deeply value the role you play in their education.

This week, I’d like to remind everyone of the importance of kindness and respect in all that we do. As we continue to build a positive learning environment, let’s encourage our students to lead with empathy, understanding, and inclusion. Whether in the classroom or during after-school activities, treating one another with respect goes a long way in creating a safe and welcoming space for all.

Lastly, I want to give a huge shout-out to our cross-country students for their outstanding performance. We’re so proud of your hard work and dedication!

Let’s make this week another fantastic one at Whitman Middle School. Thank you for your continued support, and I look forward to seeing many of you at our upcoming events.

Warm regards,

John Flowers Principal, Whitman Middle School

Picture Retake Day - October 23 MVHS Military Appreciation Night Football Game

Friday, October 18th is the annual Military Appreciation Night at the football game vs. Hayfield HS.  This special event helps recognize and celebrate our military community.

Servicemembers with a Military ID get into the game for FREE.  

A special recognition ceremony - with a distinguished guest from Ft. Belvoir - will begin at 6:40 pm prior to kickoff.

We hope that you can attend this amazing event.

Order Your Yearbook Today!! MVHS Fall Festival Whitman Fall Festival Donations Needed for Fall Festival

Dear Whitman Families,

Wednesday October 30th, the PTSA will sponsor the annual Fall Festival. This event brings our students, families and teachers together for an evening of fun games, Trunk or Treat and the opportunity to visit the Whitman Theatre department's Haunted House. We also will have a silent auction for some wonderful gift baskets as well as pizza and chips for sale. This event also serves as one of the major fundraising events for our PTSA. Money earned from this event allows us to continue hosting it in the future as well as help fund the rest of the student and teacher activities we have planned for the year.

To make this a success we need donations. Please see the Sign Up Genius. Donated items can be brought to Whitman's Main Office or you can reach out to our PTSA President, Simone Washington to arrange a drop-off ([email protected]).

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080D45AFAC229-45325714-whitman#/

 

Thank you Wildcat Families!

Your Whitman PTSA Board

Haunted House Needs

Whitman's Theater Department is looking for some donations for their annual Haunted House.  If you have any of the items lying around the house and would like to donate, please contact Karly Sargent at [email protected].

TJHSST Applications Open Monday

8th Grade Families: Did you miss the TJ Information Session at Whitman MS? Please look at the Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology application website to understand the application process and timeline (Application opens Monday, October 21). 

Visit these sites for resources:

https://www.fcps.edu/registration/thomas-jefferson        https://www.fcps.edu/about-fcps/registration/thomas-jefferson-high-school-science-and-technology-admissions/freshman   

If you have any questions, contact Whitman's TJ Liaisons: 

Ms. Shirley ([email protected]) 

Ms. Suarez ([email protected])  

Science Study

Upcoming science study sessions for students:

We will be holding these sessions throughout the week of October 21st - 30th to provide students with an opportunity to:

• Review key science concepts
• Get extra help with challenging material
• Complete any missing science assignments
• Any missing student notes documents -1.1 through 1.10
• Opportunity to retake a summative assessment
• Opportunity to make up a missed formative assessment

These sessions are open to all students but are especially encouraged for those who may be behind on their assignments.

Details:

• Week of: October 21st - 30th
• Time: 2:30 PM - 4:45 PM
• Location: Library

Missing Assignments:

Students who have missing assignments are highly encouraged to attend the study sessions to complete their work. Teachers will be available to provide assistance and answer questions.

Questions?

If you have any questions about the science study sessions, please feel free to contact Ms. LaTasha Watson at [LaTasha Watson @fcps.edu].

We encourage all students to take advantage of this opportunity to solidify their understanding of science concepts and complete any outstanding assignments.

MVHS Mulch Sale MVHS Homecoming Nominations for Outstanding Employee Award Nominations

Nominations are now open for the Outstanding Employee Awards!  To submit a nomination for a Whitman Middle School Outstanding Employee in one of the categories below, please complete the nomination through this Google form link. 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 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 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 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

 

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

 

The deadline to submit a nomination is NOVEMBER 6, 2024.

If you have any questions, please contact Lindsey Miller at [email protected]

Fairfax HS Robotics Club Classes Little Majors Program

2500 Parkers Ln Alexandria, VA 22306  | Main Office: 703-660-2400
Attendance: 703-660-2424 | Web | Twitter | Facebook