FCPS

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Dear WSHS Pyramid Families,

Many thanks to all the parents and guardians who participated in the West Springfield Pyramid Principals’ Community Chat on June 30th.  We appreciated the opportunity to hear from everyone who was willing to engage, speak your truth, experience discomfort, and accept non-closure.  There were approximately 250 people who joined us.  If you weren’t able to participate, you can view the recording of the meeting at this link:  Community Forum - recording_1.  We need to let you know that there is strong language at one point in this recording, during a retelling of the language of racism and hate some of our Black and African American students have experienced and endured.

We had several takeaways from our conversation.  Key areas of growth from the conversation included:

• Hiring more diverse staff members
• Creating a social studies curriculum that presents diverse perspectives and challenges students to critically examine materials, events, and institutions for bias, identity, and multiple perspectives.  (See what FCPS is already doing here:  https://www.fcps.edu/news/social-studies-teachers-collaborate-colleagues-statewide-create-anti-racist-culturally)
• Providing more books in libraries, classroom libraries, and instruction that reflect the diversity in our schools
• Recognizing cultural history (Black, Asian Pacific, Hispanic, Native American) equitably across all schools
• Clearly articulating and demonstrating to students, staff, and families, as incidents occur, that the behaviors and language of racism, hate, and bias are not acceptable nor tolerated

Please remember that this was our very first conversation about welcoming and embracing differences as a pyramid.  There will be ongoing conversations as a pyramid and as individual schools, and your principals are committed to listen, to learn, and to take action to make our schools more inclusive and welcoming of all students and families. 

 

Sincerely,

 

Maureen Boland, Rolling Valley ES

Cindy Conley, Irving MS

Felicia Drake, Cardinal Forrest ES

David Fee, Hunt Valley ES

Renee Miller, Keene Mill ES

Mike Mukai, West Springfield HS

Lisa Reddel, Sangster ES

Kelly Sheers, West Springfield ES

Karen Tuttle, Orange Hunt ES

 

7420 Reservation Dr, Springfield, VA 22153  | Main Office: 703-644-8200

Attendance: 703-644-8282 | Web | Twitter

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Dear Sangster Families,

 

In Monday’s Townhall with our Superintendent, Dr. Brabrand, we learned that staff and families will have until Wednesday, July 15 to make their preference known for next school year regarding the in-person or virtual school options.  This provides you with five additional days to submit a decision.  All families should have received an email with information about how to submit your selection and additional details can be found at the bottom of this message.

I know that you still have many questions about the Return to School options and I encourage you to consult some of the following resources:

 

Return to School

FCPS Return to School Frequently Asked Questions

Town Hall with Dr. Brabrand (July 6)--recording 

FCPS Town Hall with Dr. Brabrand (en Español) 

 

I am committed to keeping you updated and informed as more details about the Return to School Plan become available.   As you work to make the best decision for your family, I hope that this information is helpful.  Take good care.

 

Sincerely, 

Lisa M. Reddel

Principal

 

 

How to Make Your Choice by July 15

 

To select the option that works best for your child(ren), please follow the steps below:

 

STEP 1: Access the online form at: https://www.fcps.edu/enroll2020 .

 

STEP 2: Log in with your child’s Student ID* and either the enrolling parent’s email address or phone number on file in the FCPS Student Information System (SIS). 

 

STEP 3: Make your selection and finish by clicking the “Submit Form” button at the bottom of the form.

 

STEP 4: Check your email for a message acknowledging receipt of your enrollment decision with additional information about the enrollment process and a link to change your selection, if desired.

 

STEP 5: Repeat this process for each of your children attending school in FCPS for school year 2020-21.

 

7420 Reservation Dr, Springfield, VA 22153  | Main Office: 703-644-8200

Attendance: 703-644-8282 | Web | Twitter

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  Sangster Summer Updates

 

  Message from the Principal

 

Dear Sangster Families, 

Over the past few days, I have received many emails and communications with respect to the upcoming school year and parent choices/decisions that will be made for the 2020-21 school year. I have linked Dr. Brabrand’s letter and plan from last week describing school choices for the 2020-21 school year. I know you still have many questions regarding the options and are asked to make a decision without all of the necessary information.  Schools do not have all of the answers yet either.  We are all working collectively to support you and your child(ren)’s learning going forward regardless of the option that you choose. 

Many of you have asked what school will look like with face-to-face instruction and virtual settings. At this point, we encourage you to make your decision based on what feels right for your family. The final decision has not been made for the virtual schedule, but the decision has been made to ensure that there will be more live, teacher-directed hours than offered in May and June. Distance Learning will include both whole group and small group learning opportunities for students. In both settings, we are working with teachers to ensure that there is meaningful direct instruction.  As indicated in the plan, the face-to-face instruction will include two days of instruction with asynchronous learning on the other days. Technology will be used in both settings to support instruction.

Our first priority is the health and safety of our students and staff. Although we would all like to return to school buildings this year, we need to follow the current guidance from public health officials that we open schools with social distancing in place in classrooms, on buses, and other shared spaces. 

This past week, we have been working to understand our capacity numbers for face-to-face instruction. The number of students in each class will depend on the physical size of the classroom and our social distance (currently 6 feet) based on the Fairfax County Health Department and CDC guidance. We will employ the whole building and get creative with our space usage to ensure that we meet the guidelines. It has been suggested that student schedules be assigned alphabetically to support families with students in multiple grades. We understand childcare might be a concern and know that many of you are making plans now. 

Thank you for your feedback about last spring's Distance Learning. We are continuing to reflect on how best to meet student needs.  We will also continue to develop our tools and resources to support students’ socio-emotional needs as they return to school. Our entire staff wants to be ready to support your child during the 2020-21 school year.

To better inform your decision, Dr. Brabrand is also having a Town Hall Meeting on Monday, July 6, at 6:30 p.m. to answer additional questions that arise from his communication. In addition, Visit the Return to School web page for more details on the plans. 

These links explain in greater detail the two return to school options:

Virtual online instruction

In-school learning  

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on the FCPS website 

As we receive more details about the school year, we will be sending out communication to Sangster parents and staff.  I apologize that I do not have the answers to your questions yet.  Please keep in touch.  Take good care and stay healthy.

Sincerely,

Lisa M. Reddel

Principal

 

 

Sangster Summer Reading Challenge and Math Bingo

Sangster encourages all Falcons to enjoy reading and practice real-world math skills over the summer. Please encourage your child(ren) to participate in both the Sangster Summer Reading Challenge and Sangster Summer Math Bingo. Students who return their completed cards at the beginning of the new school year will receive recognition and have the opportunity to win a prize. Our Summer Reading Challenge and Math Bingo cards are posted on our Sangster website.

 

Free/Reduced Meals Eligibility Applications and Letters

Many families are requesting Free/Reduced letters to assist them with receiving additional benefits.  If you are in need of a replacement letter of eligibility, please contact the Office of Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) at:  fcpsmealsaps@fcps.edu or 703-813-4800.

Food and Nutrition Services continues to accept and process new applications for free and reduced-price meals.  Electronic applications are accessible via:  https://www.fcps.edu/resources/student-safety-and-wellness/food-and-nutrition-programs/free-and-reduced-price-meals.  Paper copies are available at all FCPS emergency meals distribution sites (including bus stops). 

 

iReady Reading and Math Lessons Available Now through July

Lessons in iReady are available during June and July of 2020 at no cost to families.  This resource is being turned on to provide optional individual practice to students.  Students may access iReady instruction now.  Lessons are based on current grade-level content.  Access to iReady will be turned off August 1, 2020.

Students will access iReady instruction through the FCPS public Universal Screener website, where they will enter their FCPS login credentials.  A short presentation on how to access this resource is located here and on our Sangster website.  If you have any questions or require any support, please contact your child's classroom teacher or Debbie Tannenbaum, our School Based Technology Specialist at dltannenbaum@fcps.edu.

 

School Supply Lists

Grade level school supply lists will be finalized and published by July 13. We have been revising them with the new return to school in the fall in mind.  Coming soon!

 

Yearbooks

Lifetouch has let us know our yearbooks will likely be arriving sometime in late July.  As soon as they arrive, we will let you know!

 

Mental Wellness Consultation 2020

The FCPS Office of Intervention and Prevention Services will continue to offer mental wellness consultations throughout the summer. If you have concerns about your child’s well-being or if your child would like to speak with a school psychologist or school social worker, please request a consultation.  Our FCPS mental health providers are available to help families get needed support through a 45-minute phone consultation or through secure video conferencing. Appointments are open to all FCPS families. 

Consultations are offered in two ways:

• 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 adjusting to a new school.

We encourage parents to take advantage of this service. Click here to request a consultation. You may also leave us a message at 571-423-4276.

 

 

New Student Registration for School Year 2020-2021

Parents who have not yet completed the In Person Registration Appointment should please complete the following link:

https://sangsteres.fcps.edu/new-student-registration-2020-21. 

Our registrar Marian Hoelscher will be in contact with you.

If you know of a new student that needs to register for the 2020-21 school year, please refer them to the Sangster website or contact Marian Hoelscher at mthoelscher@fcps.edu for more information.

 

Our Parent Teacher Association (PTA) information is below.

http://sangster.digitalpto.com/

 

Follow us on twitter: https://twitter.com/sangster_es

7420 Reservation Dr, Springfield, VA 22153  | Main Office: 703-644-8200

Attendance: 703-644-8282 | Web | Twitter

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FCPS Summer Learning Opportunities

As schools remain closed throughout the summer, we will continue to provide recommended distance learning opportunities for the students at Sangster:

The following summer learning opportunities will be available to currently enrolled Sangster students from June 29 – July 31:

• Sangster students will have access to skill practice through the i-Ready digital lessons through the FCPS Public Universal Screener Website.  Students will need to enter their FCPS login credentials to access these resources.
• Each elementary student will receive mathematics and language arts centrally created workbooks for the summer. Digital versions of the books will also be posted on the Continuity of Learning Blackboard page.  These books will provide recommended practice activities for students to review essential content from the 2019-2020 school year; they are not intended to preview content from next year’s grade level.  As students access these activities from June 29 to July 31, they will have the optional opportunity to attend up to one hour of Office Hours each week with one of our own outstanding staff members. The schedule is as follows:

Sangster Summer Office Hours

Monday, June 29 - Friday, July 31

 

*select the Office Hour of the grade level your child participated in for the 2019-2020 school year.

** students participating in the SPED or ESOL Office Hours may also attend the Office Hours of their current (2019-2020) grade level. Contact the teacher to receive the secure link.

If you would like for your child/children to be able to attend Office Hours to review the math & language arts workbooks, please add their name to the Sangster ES Continuity of Learning Form no later than Tuesday, June 23.  If you have already added their name, you do not need to do it again.  The secure link your child will need to log-in to Summer Office hours will be sent to their FCPS Google email address on or before Friday, June 26.  If you have any questions, please contact Allison Jankovich at ALJankovich@fcps.edu.

 

LBSS Virtual V.I.P. Summer Camp Opportunity

VIP Camp is going virtual this summer!  The After School Specialists from all FCPS middle schools are hosting an exciting virtual summer camp in partnership with Neighborhood and Community Services.  Rising 7th, 8th, and 9th graders in the Lake Braddock, Robinson, South County, West Springfield, and Woodson pyramids are invited to join our camp.  The camp will run from 9am to 3pm Mondays through Thursdays from June 29th to July 30th.  Our camp will consist of a mixture of synchronous (live) and asynchronous (self-guided/recorded) activities, and include program offerings in the areas of art, basketball, cooking, debate, drama, fitness, STEAM, trivia, yoga and much more!  There is no cost associated with this camp.  Please use the link below to register your child. Sangster ES students should contact After-School Program Specialist Mary Aunon at MFAunon@fcps.edu with any questions.

Virtual VIP Camp Summer 2020 Registration  

 

7420 Reservation Dr, Springfield, VA 22153  | Main Office: 703-644-8200

Attendance: 703-644-8282 | Web | Twitter

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  Sangster News You Choose

 

  Upcoming Events

 

June 11th - Virtual PTA Meeting Tonight (see below)

June 12th - Last Day of School

 

  Message from the Principal

Dear Sangster Families,

As we wrap up this unbelievable, memorable, and most challenging school year, we want to thank you for your patience, your persistence, your compassion, and grace as we all navigated these unchartered waters together.  Our teachers and staff have completely redone the way they teach in a very short amount of time. They have worked tirelessly and passionately and for their efforts, we are grateful. 

Last March seems like a long time ago, and yet it has only been nine weeks.  We have faced a global health pandemic that has drastically changed our way of living.  It has impacted people in our own community with their jobs, health, food and in many other ways.  Sangster was not immune to its impact.

I also want to acknowledge the pain that exists in our nation and in our community.  Systematic racism and oppression will not be ignored.  Our students, families, and staff members have experienced it.  Schools are a microcosm of society.  We will speak up when we see injustice and we will not tolerate racist acts.  While I grieve with you, I am also hopeful for a better tomorrow.

We are leaving for the summer with many unknowns.  Governor Northam provided guidance for the state of Virginia on Tuesday.  Our FCPS School Board will hold work sessions on June 15 and June 23 about possible scenarios for reopening schools in the fall.  We expect that our school division will make a decision about the reopening of schools at the end of June.  Schools will then need time to plan and will not have answers the next day.  As soon as we have information and a plan, we will continue to communicate with you through News You Choose, Twitter, our website and email.  More information will be forthcoming in July and August.   (Twitter:  @Sangster_ES)

To our friends, family and staff who plan to travel and move to new places this summer, thank you for your years at Sangster.  A piece of your heart will remain with us.  I wish you and your family a wonderful, healthy and peaceful summer with many hours of rejuvenation.  For those of you returning to Sangster, we will see you in August in some new way and form.  We are all looking forward to a wonderful 2020-21 school year.  We are Sangster Strong!   #OtherPeopleMatter

Sincerely,

Lisa M. Reddel

 

Sangster Loves to Read

 

FCPS Summer Learning Opportunities

There will be access to a variety of instructional experiences across all school levels during the summer between June 29 and July 31.  Important details about the FCPS Continuity of Learning plan are below:

• Each elementary student will receive mathematics and language arts centrally created workbooks for the summer. 
• There will be one teacher at each grade level to hold an hour of virtual office hours per week to address student questions.

We know that you may have already planned a busy summer for your families, and that it is your choice whether you encourage your children to partake in these experiences.  We also understand that children may need a break from online instruction, and that you may too.  Just know that no matter what you decide, we will support you. We are prepared to return in the fall, to whatever model of instruction is determined, with renewed energy, enthusiasm, and determination to make it a great year!

If you intend to have your child access the Sangster Continuity of Learning Summer Office Hours for support as they utilize the mathematics and language arts workbooks provided by the county, please complete the following form no later than June 12:   Sangster ES Continuity of Learning Form

  PTA Virtual Meeting - Tonight

Please join us for Sangster’s June PTA Meeting tonight, Thursday June 11th at 7:00 pm. We will elect our new board as well as continue our discussion of budget and fundraising plans for the 2020-2021 school year. We still have openings for board positions and committee chairs that we hope to fill.  If you are interested in a position as our PTA Vice President, Fundraising Chair, or another committee chair please email our PTA president (President@SangsterPTA.org) or vice president (VP@SangsterPTA.org) in advance of the meeting by June 10th. Sangster PTA needs you! 

Please join us on the online platform Zoom. When you open Zoom choose “Join” and you will be asked for a meeting ID. Our PTA meeting ID is: 815 9626 6211. Our meeting password is: 149283.  When joining our meeting please name yourself with the following format:

• Full name - parent/teacher grade level.
• For example:
• Julie Green - parent 6th/2nd grade
• John Brown - teacher art

 

Free/Reduced Meals Eligibility Applications and Letters

During our current school closing, many families are requesting Free/Reduced letters to assist them with receiving additional benefits.  If you are in need of a replacement letter of eligibility, please contact the Office of Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) at:  fcpsmealsaps@fcps.edu or 703-813-4800.

Food and Nutrition Services continues to accept and process new applications for free and reduced-price meals.  Electronic applications are accessible via:  https://www.fcps.edu/resources/student-safety-and-wellness/food-and-nutrition-programs/free-and-reduced-price-meals.  Paper copies are available at all FCPS emergency meals distribution sites (including bus stops). 

 

iReady Reading and Math Lessons Available Now through July

Lessons in iReady are available during June and July of 2020 at no cost to families.  This resource is being turned on to provide optional individual practice to students.  Students may access iReady instruction now.  Lessons are based on current grade-level content.  Access to iReady will be turned off August 1, 2020.

Students will access iReady instruction through the FCPS public Universal Screener website, where they will enter their FCPS login credentials.  A short presentation on how to access this resource is located here and on our Sangster website.  If you have any questions or require any support, please contact your child's classroom teacher or Debbie Tannenbaum, our School Based Technology Specialist at dltannenbaum@fcps.edu.

 

Summer Reading and Math Programs

Sangster encourages all Falcons to enjoy reading and practice real-world math skills over the summer. Please encourage your child(ren) to participate in both the Sangster Summer Reading Challenge and Sangster Summer Math Bingo. Students who return their completed cards at the beginning of the new school year will receive recognition and have the opportunity to win a prize. Our Summer Reading Challenge and Math Bingo cards are posted on our Sangster website.

 

Sangster Distance Learning Feedback

FCPS is working on a “return to learn” plan for the fall that will be presented to the School Board in June.  While we are all waiting and wondering what the fall semester will look like, Sangster would like to collect feedback regarding the positive experiences you and your child(ren) have had during distance learning. This will enable us to build upon our current practices if we need to continue with distance learning in the fall.  Please share your feedback via this Google form:  Sangster Distance Learning Feedback Form.

 

Other Summer Learning Resources (available on the Sangster website):

• Math
• Dreambox
• TumbleMath
• Reading
• MyON
• MackinVIA
• TumbleBooks
• PebbleGo

 

Summer Reading Opportunities

Sangster Summer Reading Challenge

Fairfax County Public Library Summer Reading Adventure

The Brown Bookshelf Generations Book Club 

Scholastic Summer Read-A-Palooza

 

Important Survey Coming Soon

Be sure to watch your email for an important FCPS survey about distance learning and returning to school this fall. FCPS wants feedback on your distance learning experience this spring and your views about proposed return to school options. Your voice matters; please share your thoughts with us as we plan for fall 2020. 

 

Yearbook Update

Families will be notified when yearbooks become available.  Thank you for your patience!

 

Technology@Home

FCPS' Technology@Home program provides an opportunity for FCPS students and staff to purchase technology products from companies such as Adobe, Microsoft, Dell, and Hewlett-Packard at discounted rates. More information is available online.

 

FCPS Offers Free Online Summer Arts Enrichment Program

Fairfax County Public Schools will offer a free online arts enrichment program  for current K-12 students for five weeks from July 6 to August 7. A variety of classes will be offered in art, music, theater, and dance. Students may participate in as many classes as they wish, continuing to take their favorite art classes or trying something new. Registration is not required. More information is available online. 

 

  Parent Resource Center Webinars Available Online 

The FCPS Parent Resource Center (PRC) has made many of its popular parenting webinars available online. Two examples include: 

• 10 Non-negotiable Rules for Raising a Teenager: A Webinar for Families. No one has ever said that raising teenagers is for the faint of heart. And while all parents genuinely want what's best for their children, teenagers seem to talk in a completely different language that's coded with many meanings.
• Motivating Responsible Behavior When Kids Are at Home 24/7. In some cases, being home all the time is leading to more connection and positive memories ... but in many cases it's leading to negative behavior that seems to stick around no matter what you try. 

  New Student Registration for School Year 2020-2021

NEW STUDENT REGISTRATION for School Year 2020-2021 (Kindergarten-6th Grade) - Parents who have not yet completed the In Person Registration Appointment, please complete the following link: https://sangsteres.fcps.edu/new-student-registration-2020-21.  Our registrar will be in contact with you.

If you know of a new student that needs to register for the 2020-21 school year, please refer them to the Sangster website or contact Marian Hoelscher at mthoelscher@fcps.edu for more information.

 

Additional Resources

FCPS Mental Health & Community Resources: found here

Mental Health Emergency Numbers: found here

FCPS Technical Support: found here

 

 

Our Parent Teacher Association (PTA) information is below.

http://sangster.digitalpto.com/

 

Follow us on twitter: https://twitter.com/sangster_es

7420 Reservation Dr, Springfield, VA 22153  | Main Office: 703-644-8200

Attendance: 703-644-8282 | Web | Twitter

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

  FCPS Summer Learning Opportunities

There will be access to a variety of instructional experiences across all school levels during the summer between June 29 and July 31.  Important details about the FCPS Continuity of Learning plan are below:

• Each elementary student will receive mathematics and language arts centrally created workbooks for the summer. 
• There will be one teacher at each grade level to hold an hour of virtual office hours per week to address student questions.

We know that you may have already planned a busy summer for your families, and that it is your choice whether you encourage your children to partake in these experiences.  We also understand that children may need a break from online instruction, and that you may too.  Just know that no matter what you decide, we will support you. We are prepared to return in the fall, to whatever model of instruction is determined, with renewed energy, enthusiasm, and determination to make it a great year!

If you intend to have your child access the Sangster Continuity of Learning Summer Office Hours for support as they utilize the mathematics and language arts workbooks provided by the county, please complete the following form no later than June 12:   Sangster ES Continuity of Learning Form

 

iReady Reading and Math Lessons 

Lessons in iReady are available during June and July of 2020 at no cost to families.  This resource is being turned on to provide optional individual practice to students.  Students may access iReady instruction now.  Lessons are based on current grade-level content.  Access to iReady will be turned off August 1, 2020.

Students will access iReady instruction through the FCPS public Universal Screener website, where they will enter their FCPS login credentials.  A short presentation on how to access this resource is located here and on our Sangster website.  If you have any questions or require any support, please contact your child's classroom teacher or Debbie Tannenbaum, our School Based Technology Specialist at dltannenbaum@fcps.edu.

 

Sangster Summer Reading Challenge and Math Bingo

Sangster encourages all Falcons to enjoy reading and practice real-world math skills over the summer.  Please encourage your child(ren) to participate in both the Sangster Summer Reading Challenge and Sangster Summer Math Bingo.  Students who return their completed cards at the beginning of the new school year will receive recognition and have the opportunity to win a prize. Our Summer Reading Challenge and Math Bingo cards are posted on our Sangster website.

 

Other Summer Learning Resources (available on the Sangster website):

• Math
• Dreambox
• TumbleMath
• Reading
• MyON
• MackinVIA
• TumbleBooks
• PebbleGo

 

Important Survey Coming Soon

Be sure to watch your email for an important FCPS survey about distance learning and returning to school this fall. FCPS wants feedback on your distance learning experience this spring and your views about proposed return to school options. Your voice matters; please share your thoughts with us as we plan for fall 2020. 

 

Follow us on twitter: https://twitter.com/sangster_es

7420 Reservation Dr, Springfield, VA 22153  | Main Office: 703-644-8200

Attendance: 703-644-8282 | Web | Twitter

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

  Sangster News You Choose

 

  Upcoming Events

 

June 4th, 5th, 8th and 9th - Parent Pick-Up of Student Materials

June 11th - Virtual PTA Meeting (see below)

June 12th - Last Day of School

 

  PTA Virtual Meeting - June

Please join us for Sangster’s June PTA Meeting on Thursday June 11th at 7:00 pm. We will elect our new board as well as continue our discussion of budget and fundraising plans for the 2020-2021 school year. We still have openings for board positions and committee chairs that we hope to fill.  If you are interested in a position as our PTA Vice President, Fundraising Chair, or another committee chair please email our PTA president (President@SangsterPTA.org) or vice president (VP@SangsterPTA.org) in advance of the meeting by June 10th. Sangster PTA needs you! 

Please join us on the online platform Zoom. When you open Zoom choose “Join” and you will be asked for a meeting ID. Our PTA meeting ID is: 815 9626 6211. Our meeting password is: 149283.  When joining our meeting please name yourself with the following format:

• Full name - parent/teacher grade level.
• For example:
• Julie Green - parent 6th/2nd grade
• John Brown - teacher art

 

Free/Reduced Meals Eligibility Applications and Letters

During our current school closing, many families are requesting Free/Reduced letters to assist them with receiving additional benefits.  If you are in need of a replacement letter of eligibility, please contact the Office of Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) at:  fcpsmealsaps@fcps.edu or 703-813-4800.

Food and Nutrition Services continues to accept and process new applications for free and reduced-price meals.  Electronic applications are accessible via:  https://www.fcps.edu/resources/student-safety-and-wellness/food-and-nutrition-programs/free-and-reduced-price-meals.  Paper copies are available at all FCPS emergency meals distribution sites (including bus stops). 

  How to Log in to Sangster Library Account

To see what library books you have out, check out this this video.  It will show you how to log in to your library account through Destiny Discover to view your checkouts, holds, and more.

 

Sangster Distance Learning Feedback

FCPS is working on a “return to learn” plan for the fall that will be presented to the School Board in June.  While we are all waiting and wondering what the fall semester will look like, Sangster would like to collect feedback regarding the positive experiences you and your child(ren) have had during distance learning. This will enable us to build upon our current practices if we need to continue with distance learning in the fall.  Please share your feedback via this Google form:  Sangster Distance Learning Feedback Form.

 

Summer Reading and Math Programs

Sangster encourages all Falcons to enjoy reading and practicing real-world math skills over the summer. Please encourage your child(ren) to participate in both the Sangster Summer Reading Challenge and Sangster Summer Math Bingo. Students who return their completed cards at the beginning of the new school year will receive recognition and have the opportunity to win a prize. Our Summer Reading Challenge and Math Bingo cards are posted on our Sangster website.

 

New Student Registration for School Year 2020-2021

NEW STUDENT REGISTRATION for School Year 2020-2021 (Kindergarten-6th Grade) - Parents who have not yet completed the In Person Registration Appointment, please complete the following link: https://sangsteres.fcps.edu/new-student-registration-2020-21.  Our registrar will be in contact with you.

If you know of a new student that needs to register for the 2020-21 school year, please refer them to the Sangster website or contact Marian Hoelscher at mthoelscher@fcps.edu for more information.

 

Student's Intention for 2020-2021 School Year

(Parents of Rising 7th Graders that will be attending another FCPS school do not need to respond)

If your child will not be returning to Sangster next school year, please email our registrar Marian Hoelscher at mthoelscher@fcps.edu with your intentions. Please include the following information:

Student Name:

Grade Level:

Name and address of New School:

If you previously advised the office that your child will not be returning to Sangster and your plans have changed, please let us know.

This information is important for staffing based on enrollment and state regulations require that we determine the educational intentions of students leaving.  

 

Sangster's WHSE News Channel

Tune in to our weekly broadcast on our unlisted WHSE News channel!  

 

FCPS Distance Learning Information

FCPS Distance Learning Plan: found here 

FCPS Distance Learning Plan for Students with Disabilities: found here

Learning Packets: found here

Internet Connectivity: Cox, Xfinity, Verizon

FCPS Mental Health & Community Resources: found here

Mental Health Emergency Numbers: found here

FCPS Technical Support: found here

 

  Positivity Project - Week of June 8th

This week we will be reviewing creativity. 

This week’s character strength review is Creativity. You show this strength when you come up with new and original ways to think about and do things. Creative people can look at the world in original ways. They are open to new experiences, and have an imaginative and independent thought process. They generate lots of different ideas and can pursue them with energy and enthusiasm. Creativity is a process that takes courage.

This Coming Week's Character Strength Review:    Creativity

 

 

Our Parent Teacher Association (PTA) information is below.

http://sangster.digitalpto.com/

 

Follow us on twitter: https://twitter.com/sangster_es

7420 Reservation Dr, Springfield, VA 22153  | Main Office: 703-644-8200

Attendance: 703-644-8282 | Web | Twitter

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

  A Message From the Principal

 

Dear Sangster Community,

Like so many of you, I have been watching what is unfolding around the nation and I’m pained by these recent tragedies.  I want to acknowledge the hurt, anger, frustration, and pain that exists among FCPS staff and community.  Racism and hate have no place in FCPS or anywhere.  Hate and oppression across our country cannot be ignored.  There are many situations and instances of racism, hate, and oppression across our country, particularly for Black people. To our African American families and staff, I want you to know that we see you, we believe in you, and we stand with you.

We must lean on one another.  We need to embrace each other’s differences so that we can create a better future.  It starts with self-examination and listening to those whose lives and perspectives are different from our own.   Like you, I hope for justice, compassion, and empathy in our lives and community.  I continue to be hopeful that something better is on the horizon as we care for one another – all people, all human beings.

Below are some resources to support you in this important dialogue, as you process thoughts and feelings with the children and people around you.  Please do not hesitate to reach out for anything.  I wish for all of you strength, peace and health.  #OtherPeopleMatter

Sincerely,

Lisa M. Reddel

 

 

Here are some children’s books to support conversations:

https://www.embracerace.org/resources/26-childrens-books-to-support-conversations-on-race-racism-resistance

 

Here are some tips for having these conversations:

https://www.embracerace.org/resources/young-kids-racial-injustice

 

Teaching Tolerance, Resource for teaching about race, racism and police violence: 

https://www.tolerance.org/moment/racism-and-police-violence

 

Teaching Tolerance, Critical Practices for Anti-Bias Education:

https://www.tolerance.org/magazine/publications/critical-practices-for-antibias-education

 

American School Counseling Association Race and Equity Resources: 

https://www.schoolcounselor.org/school-counselors/professional-development/learn-more/race-and-equity-resources

 

Follow us on twitter: https://twitter.com/sangster_es

7420 Reservation Dr, Springfield, VA 22153  | Main Office: 703-644-8200

Attendance: 703-644-8282 | Web | Twitter

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

  Sangster News You Choose

 

  Upcoming Events

 

May 28th - Sangster PTA Virtual Meeting

June 4th - June 9th - Parent Pick-Up of Student Materials (see below)

June 12th - Last Day of School

 

  --UPDATED --  Parent Pick-Up of Student Belongings

 

Dear Sangster Families,

Sangster ES will have a curb-side pick-up of student materials Thursday, June 4, 2020 – Tuesday, June 9, 2020.  The pick-up of student materials will be scheduled based on your “oldest OR only” child’s homeroom teacher.

If you have one student at Sangster, please follow the pick-up date/time of your child’s homeroom teacher listed below.  Parents with multiple children in our building should select the pick-up date/time of their oldest child’s homeroom teacher listed below.  The materials of younger siblings will be ready for pick-up at this time as well.  The goal is to only have families make one trip to Sangster for the pick-up of student materials.

 

Please follow the protocols listed below to ensure a safe, contactless pick-up of your child’s materials:

1. This is a rain or shine event.  You may only pick-up materials belonging to your child/children.  Remain in your car at all times.  All staff and parents must wear a mask.
2. Prior to arriving, please make a sign (written in marker) with the names of your child/children and homeroom teacher/s.  This sign should be visible to staff (passenger side of car). 
3. All student materials will be picked-up in the bus loop (near the main entrance).  Adhere to the directions of staff members and/or signs there to assist you.  There will be staff members asking you to pull your car up, as we do not want traffic backing-up on Reservation Dr.
4. Staff will place student materials in your car. Sorry – we will not have time to chat or answer questions at this time.  😊
5. We will have several labeled boxes along the fence line near the exit of the bus loop.   If you have Sangster materials you need to return such as library books, patrol belts, instruments, or items belonging to teachers, please pull-up to this area so that a staff member can assist you.  Again, we ask that you remain in your car and open your trunk or back door so we can collect these items from you.  To help us expediate this in a safe manner for all:

• Please have all teacher materials and/or patrol belts sealed in a Ziploc bag, labeled with the teacher’s name, the student’s name, and grade level.
• If you are returning an instrument, please make sure your child’s name and grade is clearly marked (and secured with tape or another method) for easy identification later.

6. Yearbooks – Unfortunately, yearbooks will not be ready for pick-up with student materials at this time.  Yearbooks will be delivered to the school this summer and we will communicate a plan for pick-up.
7. Lost and Found – Due to the high amount of traffic we anticipate for student pick-up, items needing to be picked-up from Lost and Found will be made available this summer.  We apologize for any inconvenience.
8. No Walkers at Pick-Up – For the safety of all of our Sangster staff and parents, this is a drive-through pick-up only.  Even if you live within walking distance of the school, we ask that you drive-through the bus loop.  Don’t forget to make a sign with your child’s name!   

After student pick-up concludes on Tuesday, June 9, we will communicate an alternate date/time for those of you unable to attend your scheduled time.  Materials not picked up after June 15 will be donated or disposed of.  If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at ALJankovich@fcps.edu. 

Thank you and we look forward to seeing you soon!

Allison Jankovich

Acting Principal

 

Sangster Distance Learning Feedback

FCPS is working on a “return to learn” plan for the fall that will be presented to the School Board in June.  While we are all waiting and wondering what the fall semester will look like, Sangster would like to collect feedback regarding the positive experiences you and your child(ren) have had during distance learning. This will enable us to build upon our current practices if we need to continue with distance learning in the fall.  Please share your feedback via this Google form:  Sangster Distance Learning Feedback Form.

 

Summer Reading and Math Programs

Sangster encourages all Falcons to enjoy reading and practicing real-world math skills over the summer. Please encourage your child(ren) to participate in both the Sangster Summer Reading Challenge and Sangster Summer Math Bingo. Students who return their completed cards at the beginning of the new school year will receive recognition and have the opportunity to win a prize. Our Summer Reading Challenge and Math Bingo cards are posted on our Sangster website.

 

PTA Virtual Meeting

Please join us for Sangster’s May PTA Meeting on Thursday May 28th at 7:00pm. We will wrap up the end of the year, discuss PTA plans for the summer and next school year, and have a chance to hear from Sangster administrators.   We have openings for board positions and committee chairs that we hope to fill.  Due to the fact that more information about plans for the fall will be shared in June, we expect to have another PTA meeting in mid-June.  Please email questions to our PTA president (President@SangsterPTA.org) and vice president (VP@SangsterPTA.org) in advance of the meeting by May 27. That way we can keep the meeting moving by consolidating questions.  If you have school specific questions, you can also email our school administrators, Lisa Reddel, Allison Jankovich and Jennifer Redford. 

Please join us on the online platform Zoom. When you open Zoom choose “Join” and you will be asked for a meeting ID. Our PTA meeting ID is: 867 9289 8488. Our meeting password is: 696923.  When joining our meeting please name yourself with the following format:

• Full name - parent/teacher grade level.
• For example:
  • Julie Green - parent 6th/2nd grade
  • John Brown - teacher art

 

PTA Openings

The Sangster PTA has two (2) open positions for the fall:  Vice President  and Secretary. Positions are held no more than 2 years.   Please contact the PTA if you are interested.  President@SangsterPTA.org  or  VP@SangsterPTA.org.  Come help make a difference for Sangster and support our school and community.

 

New Student Registration for School Year 2020-2021

NEW STUDENT REGISTRATION for School Year 2020-2021 (Kindergarten-6th Grade) - Parents who have not yet completed the In Person Registration Appointment, please complete the following link: https://sangsteres.fcps.edu/new-student-registration-2020-21.  Our registrar will be in contact with you.

If you know of a new student that needs to register for the 2020-21 school year, please refer them to the Sangster website or contact Marian Hoelscher at mthoelscher@fcps.edu for more information.

 

Student's Intention for 2020-2021 School Year

(Parents of Rising 7th Graders that will be attending another FCPS school do not need to respond)

If your child will not be returning to Sangster next school year, please email our registrar Marian Hoelscher at mthoelscher@fcps.edu with your intentions. Please include the following information:

Student Name:

Grade Level:

Name and address of New School:

If you previously advised the office that your child will not be returning to Sangster and your plans have changed, please let us know.

This information is important for staffing based on enrollment and state regulations require that we determine the educational intentions of students leaving.  

 

Sangster's WHSE News Channel

Tune in to our weekly broadcast on our unlisted WHSE News channel!  

 

FCPS Distance Learning Information

FCPS Distance Learning Plan: found here 

FCPS Distance Learning Plan for Students with Disabilities: found here

Learning Packets: found here

Internet Connectivity: Cox, Xfinity, Verizon

FCPS Mental Health & Community Resources: found here

Mental Health Emergency Numbers: found here

FCPS Technical Support: found here

 

Student Placements for 2020-2021

While it is still early to be thinking ahead to next year, we want to give you information about class placements for the 2020-2021 school-year ahead of time.  The staff at Sangster Elementary works hard to place students in an optimal learning situation each year.  If you have some information that would help us make those decisions, please send your comments in writing to Ms. Reddel by June 1st.  Please do not list teacher names.  Rather, describe the classroom academic learning environment in which your child learns best.

 

  Positivity Project - Week of June 1st

This week we will be reviewing open-mindedness and perspective. 

You show open-mindedness when you like to consider new ideas and try new things. You examine things from all sides and don’t jump to conclusions. Open-minded individuals are often good listeners and called upon to provide a balanced viewpoint. Both listening and the ability to deliver reasonable and practical advice are marks of good friends and confidantes. This strength helps individuals form meaningful and lasting relationships.

Perspective is shown when people see things in different ways. You have the ability to understand the world from multiple points of view. Perspective is also referred to as wisdom and is distinct from intelligence. People with this strength are sought out for advice because they see the big picture and can make sense of the world’s complexity. This strength of perspective gives individuals the ability to see to the heart of difficult matters and achieve clarity. Most importantly, they are honest and behave in an ethically consistent manner.

This Coming Week's Character Strength Review: 

                  Open-Mindedness/Perspective

Next Week's Character Strength Review:    Creativity

 

 

Our Parent Teacher Association (PTA) information is below.

http://sangster.digitalpto.com/

 

Follow us on twitter: https://twitter.com/sangster_es

7420 Reservation Dr, Springfield, VA 22153  | Main Office: 703-644-8200

Attendance: 703-644-8282 | Web | Twitter

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

 

Parent Pick-Up of Student Belongings

 

Dear Sangster Families,

Sangster ES will have a curb-side pick-up of student materials Thursday, June 4, 2020 – Tuesday, June 9, 2020.  The pick-up of student materials will be scheduled based on your “oldest OR only” child’s homeroom teacher.

If you have one student at Sangster, please follow the pick-up date/time of your child’s homeroom teacher listed below.  Parents with multiple children in our building should select the pick-up date/time of their oldest child’s homeroom teacher listed below.  The materials of younger siblings will be ready for pick-up at this time as well.  The goal is to only have families make one trip to Sangster for the pick-up of student materials.

 

Please follow the protocols listed below to ensure a safe, contactless pick-up of your child’s materials:

1. This is a rain or shine event.  You may only pick-up materials belonging to your child/children.  Remain in your car at all times.  All staff and parents must wear a mask.
2. Prior to arriving, please make a sign (written in marker) with the names of your child/children and homeroom teacher/s.  This sign should be visible to staff (passenger side of car). 
3. All student materials will be picked-up in the bus loop (near the main entrance).  Adhere to the directions of staff members and/or signs there to assist you.  There will be staff members asking you to pull your car up, as we do not want traffic backing-up on Reservation Dr.
4. Staff will place student materials in your car.  Sorry – we will not have time to chat or answer questions at this time.  😊
5. We will have several labeled boxes along the fence line near the exit of the bus loop.  If you have Sangster materials you need to return such as library books, patrol belts, instruments, or items belonging to teachers, please pull-up to this area so that a staff member can assist you.  Again, we ask that you remain in your car and open your trunk or back door so we can collect these items from you.  To help us expediate this in a safe manner for all:

• Please have all teacher materials and/or patrol belts sealed in a Ziploc bag, labeled with the teacher’s name, the student’s name, and grade level.
• If you are returning an instrument, please make sure your child’s name and grade is clearly marked (and secured with tape or another method) for easy identification later.

After student pick-up concludes on Tuesday, June 9, we will communicate an alternate date/time for those of you unable to attend your scheduled time.  Materials not picked up after June 15 will be donated or disposed of.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at ALJankovich@fcps.edu. 

Thank you and we look forward to seeing you soon!

Allison Jankovich

Acting Principal

 

Follow us on twitter: https://twitter.com/sangster_es

7420 Reservation Dr, Springfield, VA 22153  | Main Office: 703-644-8200

Attendance: 703-644-8282 | Web | Twitter

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

  Sangster News You Choose

 

  Upcoming Events

 

May 25th - Memorial Day - No School

May 28th - Sangster PTA Virtual Meeting

June 12th - Last Day of School

 

 

Message from the Principal

Dear Sangster Families,

We have made great strides in distance learning as all students have had the opportunity to participate in live instruction, as well as self-directed learning, for at least three weeks. We hope that this consistency has reinforced a daily routine that supports you and your children’s needs. More importantly, we hope that you are witnessing your child’s engagement and productivity as a testament to the academic progress that can be made, even while using a new modality for instruction.

If you tuned into the School Board meeting, you observed the critical thinking and ideas that our county is weighing in order to make substantive decisions that will impact your child’s return to school this fall.  As soon as we are aware of how these changes will impact our communities, we will share these findings with you.  Everyone’s safety is at the forefront of this decision.

All schools have been tasked with end-of-the year procedures that need to have follow through during these last four weeks. Following required safety guidelines, Sangster classroom teachers will be assigned to a specific day over the next three weeks to come into the building and bag the items belonging to each of the students in their classroom. During this same day, teachers will be packing and cleaning up their classroom for summer cleaning.

There will be detailed information coming soon regarding the pick-up of student items and drop-off of library books, instruments, patrol belts, etc.  The pick-up of student materials will be curb-side service and will occur tentatively Thursday, June 4 – Wednesday, June 10, 2020.  If you have multiple children at Sangster, you will be able to pick-up all student materials at one time.   

If you are aware of neighbors or friends that need to register for any grade level at Sangster K-6, please direct them to the Sangster website, where there is a link for parents to begin the registration process remotely. Parents may also contact our student registrar, Marian Hoelscher, at mthoelscher@fcps.edu with any questions or for assistance.

We appreciate your support as we strive to complete this difficult school year with optimism and resilience.

Happy Memorial Day!

Sincerely,

Lisa M. Reddel

Principal

 

A Message from our Specialists

 View our Sangster Specialists Video here.

 

PTA Virtual Meeting

Please join us for Sangster’s May PTA Meeting on Thursday May 28th at 7:00pm. We will wrap up the end of the year, discuss PTA plans for the summer and next school year, and have a chance to hear from Sangster administrators.   We have openings for board positions and committee chairs that we hope to fill.  Due to the fact that more information about plans for the fall will be shared in June, we expect to have another PTA meeting in mid-June.  Please email questions to our PTA president (President@SangsterPTA.org) and vice president (VP@SangsterPTA.org) in advance of the meeting by May 27. That way we can keep the meeting moving by consolidating questions.  If you have school specific questions, you can also email our school administrators, Lisa Reddel, Allison Jankovich and Jennifer Redford. 

Please join us on the online platform Zoom. When you open Zoom choose “Join” and you will be asked for a meeting ID. Our PTA meeting ID is: 867 9289 8488. Our meeting password is: 696923.  When joining our meeting please name yourself with the following format:

• Full name - parent/teacher grade level.
• For example:
  • Julie Green - parent 6th/2nd grade
  • John Brown - teacher art

 

PTA Openings

The Sangster PTA has two (2) open positions for the fall:  Vice President  and Secretary. Positions are held no more than 2 years.   Please contact the PTA if you are interested.  President@SangsterPTA.org  or  VP@SangsterPTA.org.  Come help make a difference for Sangster and support our school and community.

 

New Student Registration for School Year 2020-2021

NEW STUDENT REGISTRATION for School Year 2020-2021 (Kindergarten-6th Grade) - Parents who have not yet completed the In Person Registration Appointment, please complete the following link: https://sangsteres.fcps.edu/new-student-registration-2020-21.  Our registrar will be in contact with you.

If you know of a new student that needs to register for the 2020-21 school year, please refer them to the Sangster website or contact Marian Hoelscher at mthoelscher@fcps.edu for more information.

 

Student's Intention for 2020-2021 School Year

(Parents of Rising 7th Graders that will be attending another FCPS school do not need to respond)

If your child will not be returning to Sangster next school year, please email our registrar Marian Hoelscher at mthoelscher@fcps.edu with your intentions. Please include the following information:

Student Name:

Grade Level:

Name and address of New School:

If you previously advised the office that your child will not be returning to Sangster and your plans have changed, please let us know.

This information is important for staffing based on enrollment and state regulations require that we determine the educational intentions of students leaving.  

 

Sangster's WHSE News Channel

Tune in to our weekly broadcast on our unlisted WHSE News channel!  

 

FCPS Distance Learning Information

FCPS Distance Learning Plan: found here 

FCPS Distance Learning Plan for Students with Disabilities: found here

Learning Packets: found here

Internet Connectivity: Cox, Xfinity, Verizon

FCPS Mental Health & Community Resources: found here

Mental Health Emergency Numbers: found here

FCPS Technical Support: found here

 

Student Placements for 2020-2021

While it is still early to be thinking ahead to next year, we want to give you information about class placements for the 2020-2021 school-year ahead of time.  The staff at Sangster Elementary works hard to place students in an optimal learning situation each year.  If you have some information that would help us make those decisions, please send your comments in writing to Ms. Reddel by June 1st.  Please do not list teacher names.  Rather, describe the classroom academic learning environment in which your child learns best.

 

  Positivity Project - Week of May 26th

This week we will be reviewing bravery and perseverance. 

Bravery is shown when you act with mental, moral, or physical strength even when you know things are difficult or scary. Bravery refers to voluntary (not coerced) action in the face of a dangerous circumstance. This strength involves judgment; the brave person must have an understanding of the risks and consequences involved in acting. According to Socrates and Plato, forethought separates acts of valor from acts of rashness. This means that bravery isn’t simply fearlessness, but instead the overcoming of fear. 

You show perseverance when you complete what you start despite obstacles and never give up. For individuals, persistence can be directly connected to an individual’s ability to be successful throughout their life. Those who persevere through setbacks often reap the benefits of the success gained by refusing to give up. Sometimes, this comes with the added benefit of increased knowledge and skill as a result of the work needed to achieve. Perseverance is also connected with bravery. Persisting in a task and failing, can result in depleted self-esteem. Therefore, it takes bravery to persist in a task despite the fear of failure.

This Coming Week's Character Strength Review:    Bravery/Perseverance

Next Week's Character Strength Review:    Open-Mindedness/Perspective

 

 

Our Parent Teacher Association (PTA) information is below.

http://sangster.digitalpto.com/

 

Follow us on twitter: https://twitter.com/sangster_es

7420 Reservation Dr, Springfield, VA 22153  | Main Office: 703-644-8200

Attendance: 703-644-8282 | Web | Twitter

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

  Sangster News You Choose

 

 

Message from the Principal

Dear Sangster Families,

Spring is finally here!  I hope you have been enjoying the sunny weather. 

We are excited to continue our distance learning opportunities with teachers and students since we are in a rhythm and routine at Sangster.  Face-to-face instruction, office hours, learning packets, and cable channel lessons continue to be available.  For students who are unable to access the live online session at the scheduled time or want to revisit the lesson, recorded sessions of most lessons will be posted.  Please email your classroom teacher if you were unable to connect with your teacher. 

As a reminder, our specialists (Art, Music, PE, Spanish, Band/Strings, Library, STEAM and others) have grade level specific activities posted for your students to access in their content areas.  They are also joining many classes for the first 10-minutes of the live sessions to connect with students face-to-face.  Our mental health team remains available to assist students and families in need of emotional support during this difficult time.  Please reach out to them if your child needs support.

We have started coordinating for staff to pack up classrooms and student materials over the next few weeks.  With the continued health department safety restrictions, this process will take place over a period of time.  Pack up will not impact direct instruction with your students.

Schools are putting together a plan for family pick-up of student belongings beginning the week of June 1, 2020.  We will share a schedule with the community regarding pick-up in late May along with information about how we will collect back student materials for 6th graders and students moving (e.g. instruments, library books, etc.).   More information will be coming soon both from the Division and from our school with more specific details.

Thank you for your continued patience and support. 

Sincerely,

Lisa M. Reddel

 

End of Year Medication Pick-Up

If your student has medication in the Health Room, you should have received an email Monday regarding the pick-up process.  Please sign up at the following link to schedule an appointment to pick up medications today or tomorrow.  Please email Jennifer Ogden McAuliffe at jomcauliffe1@fcps.edu with any questions.

 

Virtual Rising 7th Grade Parent Q&A Session - Lake Braddock SS

Lake Braddock Middle School is hosting a virtual Question and Answer Session. Parents will receive an e-Notify message on May 15th with a video tour, a presentation, and a Google form to be completed with any questions for school staff.  There will also be a Blackboard Collaborate link for a virtual Q&A for Wednesday, May 20th at 6:30 pm.

 

New Student Registration for School Year 2020-2021

NEW STUDENT REGISTRATION for School Year 2020-2021 (Kindergarten-6th Grade) - Parents who have not yet completed the In Person Registration Appointment, please complete the following link: https://sangsteres.fcps.edu/new-student-registration-2020-21.  Our registrar will be in contact with you.

If you know of a new student that needs to register for the 2020-21 school year, please refer them to the Sangster website or contact Marian Hoelscher at mthoelscher@fcps.edu for more information.

 

Student's Intention for 2020-2021 School Year

(Parents of Rising 7th Graders that will be attending another FCPS school do not need to respond)

If your child will not be returning to Sangster next school year, please email our registrar Marian Hoelscher at mthoelscher@fcps.edu with your intentions. Please include the following information:

Student Name:

Grade Level:

Name and address of New School:

If you previously advised the office that your child will not be returning to Sangster and your plans have changed, please let us know.

This information is important for staffing based on enrollment and state regulations require that we determine the educational intentions of students leaving.  

 

Sangster's WHSE News Channel

Tune in to our weekly broadcast on our unlisted WHSE News channel!  

 

FCPS Distance Learning Information

FCPS Distance Learning Plan: found here 

FCPS Distance Learning Plan for Students with Disabilities: found here

Learning Packets: found here

Internet Connectivity: Cox, Xfinity, Verizon

FCPS Mental Health & Community Resources: found here

Mental Health Emergency Numbers: found here

FCPS Technical Support: found here

 

Student Placements for 2020-2021

While it is still early to be thinking ahead to next year, we want to give you information about class placements for the 2020-2021 school-year ahead of time.  The staff at Sangster Elementary works hard to place students in an optimal learning situation each year.  If you have some information that would help us make those decisions, please send your comments in writing to Ms. Reddel by June 1st.  Please do not list teacher names.  Rather, describe the classroom academic learning environment in which your child learns best.

 

  Positivity Project - Week of May 18th

This week we will be reviewing gratitude.  Gratitude is the quality of feeling and expressing thankfulness and appreciation. It is an affirmation that there is goodness in other people and the world, and that we have received that goodness. People with the strength of gratitude have a readiness to show appreciation for kindness and also to return kindness.

This Coming Week's Character Strength Review:     Gratitude

Next Week's Character Strength Review:     Bravery/Perseverance

 

 

Our Parent Teacher Association (PTA) information is below.

http://sangster.digitalpto.com/

 

Follow us on twitter: https://twitter.com/sangster_es

7420 Reservation Dr, Springfield, VA 22153  | Main Office: 703-644-8200

Attendance: 703-644-8282 | Web | Twitter

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

Click to edit this placeholder text.

Thank You to Our Wonderful Sangster Teachers & Staff!!

  Sangster News You Choose

 

  Sangster Specialists

This week, we will begin integrating specialists into each teacher’s virtual classroom so they can take a few minutes to connect with students, communicate the activities they've posted on their site, and answer questions.  Classroom teachers have posted the specialists' site on their Blackboard and/or Google Classrooms so students can access lessons and activities daily.  Specialists have a variety of ways for students to post their work and receive feedback.  Each specialist's page also includes information about how to contact them directly via email.  Our specialists miss their students and are looking forward to “seeing” them soon! 

 

Yearbook Orders Update - New Last Chance!!

All yearbooks must be purchased in advance this year. We are happy to announce that LifeTouch has kindly extended the deadline to buy a yearbook if you have not ordered one yet!  Sangster families now have until Monday, May 11, 2020 to place an order. Yearbooks will not be available to purchase after this date, so please go to https://ybpay.lifetouch.com and use Yearbook ID code 13246520 by this Monday, May 11th! 

 

New Student Registration for School Year 2020-2021

NEW STUDENT REGISTRATION for School Year 2020-2021 (Kindergarten-6th Grade) - Parents who have not yet completed the In Person Registration Appointment, please complete the following link: https://sangsteres.fcps.edu/new-student-registration-2020-21.  Our registrar will be in contact with you.

If you know of a new student that needs to register for the 2020-21 school year, please refer them to the Sangster website or contact Marian Hoelscher at mthoelscher@fcps.edu for more information.

 

Student's Intention for 2020-2021 School Year

(Parents of Rising 7th Graders that will be attending another FCPS school do not need to respond)

If your child will not be returning to Sangster next school year, please email our registrar Marian Hoelscher at mthoelscher@fcps.edu with your intentions. Please include the following information:

Student Name:

Grade Level:

Name and address of New School:

If you previously advised the office that your child will not be returning to Sangster and your plans have changed, please let us know.

This information is important for staffing based on enrollment and state regulations require that we determine the educational intentions of students leaving.  

 

Sangster's WHSE News Channel

Tune in to our weekly broadcast on our unlisted WHSE News channel!  

 

FCPS Distance Learning Information

FCPS Distance Learning Plan: found here 

FCPS Distance Learning Plan for Students with Disabilities: found here

Learning Packets: found here

Internet Connectivity: Cox, Xfinity, Verizon

FCPS Mental Health & Community Resources: found here

Mental Health Emergency Numbers: found here

FCPS Technical Support: found here

 

Student Placements for 2020-2021

While it is still early to be thinking ahead to next year, we want to give you information about class placements for the 2020-2021 school-year ahead of time.  The staff at Sangster Elementary works hard to place students in an optimal learning situation each year.  If you have some information that would help us make those decisions, please send your comments in writing to Ms. Reddel by June 1st.  Please do not list teacher names.  Rather, describe the classroom academic learning environment in which your child learns best.

 

  Positivity Project - Week of May 11th

For the remaining weeks of school, we will now be reviewing all 25 character strengths that we have learned throughout the year.  Ask your student what they feel their top strength is. How do they use it to show that other people matter?  

 

 

Our Parent Teacher Association (PTA) information is below.

http://sangster.digitalpto.com/

 

Follow us on twitter: https://twitter.com/sangster_es

7420 Reservation Dr, Springfield, VA 22153  | Main Office: 703-644-8200

Attendance: 703-644-8282 | Web | Twitter

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

  Sangster News You Choose

 

  Message from the Principal

Dear Sangster Families,

We are all in this together!  The new distance learning journey is in place because the health and safety of you and your family during this pandemic is a priority.  We hope this message finds you and your loved ones well.

It was exciting to have our first full week of face-to-face instruction.  If the staff did not see your child(ren), they will be reaching out to you.  We want to make sure we are connecting with each of our students every week.  We miss our students!

Ms. Jankovich, Ms. Redford and I were able to see so many thoughtful and engaging lessons.  The staff is working hard to provide opportunities for your child(ren)’s continuity of learning.  Our collaborative teaching teams continue to reflect on distance learning plans and are using those reflections for constant adjustment.  Our distance learning goal is to continue to inspire a love of learning in our students and to continue to foster the growth and progress towards our standards of learning.  

We want you as a family to make decisions about what works for your family.  Many of you are managing and juggling your family systems, work schedules and health issues during this stressful time.  We encourage you to communicate with teachers, support staff, and administration whenever needed so we can support each other in this process.  There are many points of access for our continuity of learning including daily instructional time and office hours with teachers, centrally mailed learning packets, and continuous lessons on the cable channels.

District Level and School level resources for continuity of learning: https://fcps.blackboard.com/webapps/login/

FCPS cable channels with learning activities are available:

• Channel 21 includes elementary school programming
• Channel 25 includes middle school programming
• Channel 99 includes high school programming

The Sangster staff is working and collaborating each day during this global crisis.  They put on bright smiles during the lessons, even when their own children and families are struggling.  They love and miss your children!  Next week is teacher appreciation week.  THANK YOU to our staff for all you have done and continue to do to help finish the school year strong and connect with students.

To all Sangster families – THANK YOU for all you are doing to help your children stay focused and calm during this challenging time.  We will get through this together.  Stay in touch.  Take good care.  Sangster Strong!

Sincerely,

Lisa M. Reddel

 

New Student Registration for School Year 2020-2021

NEW STUDENT REGISTRATION for School Year 2020-2021 (Kindergarten-6th Grade) - Parents who have not yet completed the In Person Registration Appointment, please complete the following link: https://forms.gle/SD38Zdt1bbH29XEp7.  Our registrar will be in contact with you.

If you know of a new student that needs to register for the 2020-21 school year, please refer them to the Sangster website or contact Marian Hoelscher at mthoelscher@fcps.edu for more information.

 

Student's Intention for 2020-2021 School Year

(Parents of Rising 7th Graders that will be attending another FCPS school do not need to respond)

If your child will not be returning to Sangster next school year, please email our registrar Marian Hoelscher at mthoelscher@fcps.edu with your intentions. Please include the following information:

Student Name:

Grade Level:

Name and address of New School:

If you previously advised the office that your child will not be returning to Sangster and your plans have changed, please let us know.

This information is important for staffing based on enrollment and state regulations require that we determine the educational intentions of students leaving.  

 

Sangster's WHSE News Channel

Tune in to our weekly broadcast on our unlisted WHSE News channel!  

 

FCPS Distance Learning Plan

Information about the FCPS Distance Learning Plan can be found here:  https://www.fcps.edu/academics/distance-learning

The complete plan is available here  (PDF)

 

Distance Learning Plan for Students with Disabilities

Sangster staff is working hard to prepare differentiated instruction for students with disabilities and are looking forward to connecting with the students they support and their families.  Please review the county-wide plan below for supporting students with disabilities.

https://www.fcps.edu/node/40612?utm_content=&utm_medium=email&utm_name=&utm_source=govdelivery&utm_term=

 

Learning Packets

Questions about using the learning packets during learning at home should be directed to your child’s teacher.  Materials used in the centrally mailed packets contain copyrighted materials so we are only able to post on Blackboard, not on the public website. Distance Learning Packets can be found here.  

Step by Step directions on how to find learning packets are here:  https://www.fcps.edu/distance-learning/instruction/packets/how-to-find

 

Report Cards

Students will be given a grade for third quarter based on assignments given through March 13, 2020.  Due to the initial pause in teacher-led “live” instruction, the third quarter has been extended until tomorrow, Friday, May 1, 2020, which primarily impacts middle and high schools.  Grades will be available in ParentVUE/StudentVUE on Saturday, May 9.  Report card mailings to all parents/guardians who have not opted into electronic delivery will begin on May 12, 2020.  Report cards will be mailed home centrally from FCPS. 

Students will not receive marks for 4th quarter, although their effort and progress within the distance learning window can be counted toward improving their Final Mark.  This Final Mark is the grade that will remain on their academic transcript.  Report cards will be mailed home centrally from FCPS. 

 

Attendance

Student attendance will be taken daily (Monday-Thursday) by classroom teachers during the “Virtual Teacher-Directed” Instructional hour when synchronous instruction is provided.  This is done to monitor participation across the division and to help teachers identify students they will need to check in with via a phone call later in the week to provide additional support.  This data will be entered in the Student Information System (SIS), but will not be included in the student attendance history needed for state reporting.

 

Advanced Academic Level IV Services

The AAP office began sending notifications to families regarding eligibility decisions for Level IV services for SY 2020-21 on Monday, April 13.  Due to COVID-related closures, Instructional Services has created an electronic communications system to be used instead of paper letters sent by mail.  Parents will have until this coming Monday, May 4, 2020 to accept placement so that we can communicate acceptances that impact staffing to principals in a timely manner.  Letters for students who are found ineligible will contain information about the appeals process.  The AAP office is extending the appeals deadline until July 15, 2020 because appeals cannot be completed until they are able to access the original files and convene an appeals committee.  The deadline date will be reconsidered if necessary.

 

Internet Connectivity

Mifi devices have been ordered by FCPS, although we do not have any new information on if/when they might be available to Sangster families.  Many of our families are connecting through cellular phone hotspots or through other mifi/computer devices available within the home.  There are also many companies offering discounted internet service and devices during this crisis.  Please visit the links below to learn more.

Cox 

https://www.cox.com/residential/internet/connect2compete/covid-19-response.html

Xfinity

https://www.xfinity.com/support/articles/comcast-broadband-opportunity-program   

Verizon

https://nationalverifier.servicenowservices.com/lifeline https://www.verizon.com/support/consumer/account/manage-account/lifeline-discount

 

Access to Computer/Tablet

Sangster administration directed classroom teachers to connect with each student/family on their class roster.  They identified families who do not have any access to technology while checking in with students over the past few weeks.  If you have a student in grades 3-6 and do not have access to any devices as a family or to internet, please contact your child’s teacher for support.

 

Access to the School Building

We are under explicit direction that staff and students should have extremely limited access to the school building during this health crisis. There are a few exceptions to include:

• Emergency pick up of medications (that cannot be obtained from the family physician).  
• Pick up of special education equipment needed for Distance Learning Instruction.
• Pick up of a resource or tool that is required for Distance Learning Instruction.

If you need to make arrangements for an essential pickup, please contact Allison Jankovich at ALJankovich@fcps.edu or Jennifer Redford at jaredford@fcps.edu.

 

Student Placements for 2020-2021

While it is still early to be thinking ahead to next year, we want to give you information about class placements for the 2020-2021 school-year ahead of time.  The staff at Sangster Elementary works hard to place students in an optimal learning situation each year.  If you have some information that would help us make those decisions, please send your comments in writing to Ms. Reddel by June 1st.  Please do not list teacher names.  Rather, describe the classroom academic learning environment in which your child learns best.

 

Mental Health Resources

FCPS has created a website for Mental Health Resources that is accessible on the main page of the FCPS website.  

FCPS Mental Health Resources 

Mental Health Emergency Numbers

During this difficult time our clinical team continue to be here to help support our staff, students, and families.  Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have students who you are concerned about. 

Paula Augenstein

PHAugenstein@fcps.edu              School Guidance Counselor     K, 2, 4, 6

 

Lisa Railan                          

LTRailan@fcps.edu                       School Guidance Counselor     K, 1, 3, 5

 

Maggie Wilkerson           

mswilkerson@fcps.edu                 School Social Worker

 

Denise Mattingly             

dmattingly@fcps.edu                    School Psychologist

 

Technology Support

What can I do if I cannot hear the teacher?

• Make sure your computer volume is on. You can check this by clicking the “F1” button at the top of your keyboard. 
• Make sure your speaker volume in BBCU is turned all the way up.  You can do this by:
  • clicking on the purple tab with the “X” in it located at the bottom right of your screen.
  • then click on “My Settings” (the picture of the gear) drag your speaker volume (it’s purple) to 100%

 What if the audio and/or picture quality is poor or goes in and out?

• Move closer to your wireless source in your house.  Sometimes the farther you are from this source, the weaker the signal and that can translate to a poor audio and/or visual experience.

My audio, video and/or chat is not working.

• Teachers will be turning the audio, video and/or chat features on and off during the session in order to manage the class. 

My default browser is not Chrome.

• Launch Chrome
• Paste the following into the URL window chrome://settings/defaultBrowser
• Click Make Default
• If prompted to choose an app, click Google Chrome and close the window

If none of these tips are helping to fix your issue, you may want to consider restarting your computer.  We ask that you do not note your issue in the chat section or ask the teacher to problem solve while they are teaching. If the above tips do not work, please email your classroom teacher after the session.

Here is information about accessing technical support during distance learning: Information on technical support is available online. 

 

 

  Positivity Project - Week of May 4th

This week’s character strength is Leadership. You show this when you value each member of your group and inspire people to do their best. This character strength’s focus is on the personal qualities of leaders, rather than the practice of leadership. These qualities include the ability to understand others and inspire them toward a common goal, the capacity to mitigate conflict and mold consensus, and the desire to lead other people.

 

This Coming Week's Character Strength:     Leadership

We will review all 25 character strengths over the remaining weeks of school.

 

 

Our Parent Teacher Association (PTA) information is below.

http://sangster.digitalpto.com/

 

Follow us on twitter: https://twitter.com/sangster_es

7420 Reservation Dr, Springfield, VA 22153  | Main Office: 703-644-8200

Attendance: 703-644-8282 | Web | Twitter

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

  Sangster News You Choose

 

  Message from the Principal

Dear Sangster Families,

First and foremost, we miss seeing you in person and hope that you and your families are safe and healthy during this time.  Thank you for your patience and support.  We understand the difficulties of distance learning in your homes.  Our staff shares your frustration with the constant changes and disruptions that have occurred over the past few weeks.  Our Sangster teachers want nothing more than to be with your children learning. 

A top priority at Sangster and of FCPS is to ensure that our students are safe when they are under our care.  As you know the biggest area of concern that emerged across the Division was the ability to keep each virtual classroom independently secure.  This week, our school staff was trained on Blackboard Collaborate Ultra (BBCU) with layers of added security.  Your child(ren)’s teacher will be in touch with you before Monday with directions on how to access their virtual classroom.  We remain hopeful that the necessary changes have been made to help us smoothly move forward with synchronous instruction.

My heart is full after seeing so many creative, interactive and successful lessons happening at every grade level.  Many aspects of our distance learning plan were positive and well-executed, including how quickly our students have adapted.  Our staff is working hard to make the time they have with students valuable for both relationships and instruction.  We are here for you and are in this together.  Thank you for your continued trust in us.  We appreciate your partnership throughout this journey.  Please do not hesitate to reach out to our teachers, counselors, and other staff.  Take good care.  Sangster Strong!

Sincerely,

Lisa M. Reddel

 

New Student Registration for School Year 2020-2021

NEW STUDENT REGISTRATION for School Year 2020-2021 (Kindergarten-6th Grade) - Parents who have not yet completed the In Person Registration Appointment, please complete the following link: https://forms.gle/SD38Zdt1bbH29XEp7.  Our registrar will be in contact with you.

If you know of a new student that needs to register for the 2020-21 school year, please refer them to the Sangster website or contact Marian Hoelscher at mthoelscher@fcps.edu for more information.

 

Student's Intention for 2020-2021 School Year

(Parents of Rising 7th Graders that will be attending another FCPS school do not need to respond)

If your child will not be returning to Sangster next school year, please email our registrar Marian Hoelscher at mthoelscher@fcps.edu with your intentions. Please include the following information:

Student Name:

Grade Level:

Name and address of New School:

If you previously advised the office that your child will not be returning to Sangster and your plans have changed, please let us know.

This information is important for staffing based on enrollment and state regulations require that we determine the educational intentions of students leaving.  

 

Sangster's WHSE News Channel

Looking for a fun way to connect as a Sangster community and stay on top of the school news?  Tune in to our weekly broadcast on our new unlisted WHSE News channel!  We'll share spirit weeks, Positivity Project traits, weekly wellness tips, featured falcons, and more! 

 

FCPS Distance Learning Plan

Information about the FCPS Distance Learning Plan can be found here:  https://www.fcps.edu/academics/distance-learning

The complete plan is available here  (PDF)

 

Distance Learning Plan for Students with Disabilities

Sangster staff is working hard to prepare differentiated instruction for students with disabilities and are looking forward to connecting with the students they support and their families.  Please review the county-wide plan below for supporting students with disabilities.

https://www.fcps.edu/node/40612?utm_content=&utm_medium=email&utm_name=&utm_source=govdelivery&utm_term=

 

Learning Packets

Questions about using the learning packets during learning at home should be directed to your child’s teacher.  Materials used in the centrally mailed packets contain copyrighted materials so we are only able to post on Blackboard, not on the public website. Distance Learning Packets can be found here.  

Step by Step directions on how to find learning packets are here:  https://www.fcps.edu/distance-learning/instruction/packets/how-to-find

 

Report Cards

Students will be given a grade for third quarter based on assignments given through March 13, 2020.  Due to last week’s pause in teacher-led “live” instruction, the third quarter has been extended until Friday, May 1, 2020, which primarily impacts middle and high schools.  Grades will be available in ParentVUE/StudentVUE on Saturday, May 9.  Report card mailings to all parents/guardians who have not opted into electronic delivery will begin on May 12, 2020.  Report cards will be mailed home centrally from FCPS. 

Students will not receive marks for 4th quarter, although their effort and progress within the distance learning window can be counted toward improving their Final Mark.  This Final Mark is the grade that will remain on their academic transcript.  Report cards will be mailed home centrally from FCPS. 

 

Attendance

Student attendance will be taken daily (Monday-Thursday) by classroom teachers during the “Virtual Teacher-Directed” Instructional hour when synchronous instruction is provided.  This is done to monitor participation across the division and to help teachers identify students they will need to check in with via a phone call later in the week to provide additional support.  This data will be entered in the Student Information System (SIS), but will not be included in the student attendance history needed for state reporting.

 

Advanced Academic Level IV Services

The AAP office began sending notifications to families regarding eligibility decisions for Level IV services for SY 2020-21 on Monday, April 13.  Due to COVID-related closures, Instructional Services has created an electronic communications system to be used instead of paper letters sent by mail.  Parents will have until May 4, 2020 to accept placement so that we can communicate acceptances that impact staffing to principals in a timely manner.  Letters for students who are found ineligible will contain information about the appeals process.  The AAP office is extending the appeals deadline until July 15, 2020 because appeals cannot be completed until they are able to access the original files and convene an appeals committee.  The deadline date will be reconsidered if necessary.

 

Internet Connectivity

Mifi devices have been ordered by FCPS, although we do not have any new information on if/when they might be available to Sangster families.  Many of our families are connecting through cellular phone hotspots or through other mifi/computer devices available within the home.  There are also many companies offering discounted internet service and devices during this crisis.  Please visit the links below to learn more.

Cox 

https://www.cox.com/residential/internet/connect2compete/covid-19-response.html

Xfinity

https://www.xfinity.com/support/articles/comcast-broadband-opportunity-program   

Verizon

https://nationalverifier.servicenowservices.com/lifeline https://www.verizon.com/support/consumer/account/manage-account/lifeline-discount

 

Access to Computer/Tablet

Sangster administration directed classroom teachers to connect with each student/family on their class roster.  They identified families who do not have any access to technology while checking in with students over the past few weeks.  If you have a student in grades 3-6 and do not have access to any devices as a family or to internet, please contact your child’s teacher for support.

 

Access to the School Building

We are under explicit direction that staff and students should have extremely limited access to the school building during this health crisis. There are a few exceptions to include:

• Emergency pick up of medications (that cannot be obtained from the family physician).  
• Pick up of special education equipment needed for Distance Learning Instruction.
• Pick up of a resource or tool that is required for Distance Learning Instruction.

If you need to make arrangements for an essential pickup, please contact Allison Jankovich at ALJankovich@fcps.edu or Jennifer Redford at jaredford@fcps.edu.

 

Student Placements for 2020-2021

While it is still early to be thinking ahead to next year, we want to give you information about class placements for the 2020-2021 school-year ahead of time.  The staff at Sangster Elementary works hard to place students in an optimal learning situation each year.  If you have some information that would help us make those decisions, please send your comments in writing to Ms. Reddel by June 1st.  Please do not list teacher names.  Rather, describe the classroom academic learning environment in which your child learns best.

 

Mental Health Resources

FCPS has created a website for Mental Health Resources that is accessible on the main page of the FCPS website.  

FCPS Mental Health Resources 

Mental Health Emergency Numbers

During this difficult time our clinical team continue to be here to help support our staff, students, and families.  Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have students who you are concerned about. 

Paula Augenstein

PHAugenstein@fcps.edu              School Guidance Counselor     K, 2, 4, 6

 

Lisa Railan                          

LTRailan@fcps.edu                       School Guidance Counselor     K, 1, 3, 5

 

Maggie Wilkerson           

mswilkerson@fcps.edu                 School Social Worker

 

Denise Mattingly             

dmattingly@fcps.edu                    School Psychologist

 

Technology Support

What can I do if I cannot hear the teacher?

• Make sure your computer volume is on. You can check this by clicking the “F1” button at the top of your keyboard. 
• Make sure your speaker volume in BBCU is turned all the way up.  You can do this by:
  • clicking on the purple tab with the “X” in it located at the bottom right of your screen.
  • then click on “My Settings” (the picture of the gear) drag your speaker volume (it’s purple) to 100%

 

What if the audio and/or picture quality is poor or goes in and out?

• Move closer to your wireless source in your house.  Sometimes the farther you are from this source, the weaker the signal and that can translate to a poor audio and/or visual experience.

 

My audio, video and/or chat is not working.

• Teachers will be turning the audio, video and/or chat features on and off during the session in order to manage the class. 

 

My default browser is not Chrome.

• Launch Chrome
• Paste the following into the URL window chrome://settings/defaultBrowser
• Click Make Default
• If prompted to choose an app, click Google Chrome and close the window

If none of these tips are helping to fix your issue, you may want to consider restarting your computer.  We ask that you do not note your issue in the chat section or ask the teacher to problem solve while they are teaching. If the above tips do not work, please email your classroom teacher after the session.

Here is information about accessing technical support during distance learning: Information on technical support is available online. 

 

Yearbook Orders - Final Call

You can order Sangster yearbooks online at https://ybpay.lifetouch.com using Yearbook ID code 13246520.  The LAST CHANCE to place your order online is this Saturday, April 25, 2020.

 

  Positivity Project - Week of April 27th

This week’s character strength is Connection/Purpose. You demonstrate this strength when you have beliefs about the meaning of life and your life’s purpose. You seek to be part of something greater than yourself. Having a clear sense of purpose in life, and a belief that you’re connected to a larger meaning, gives individuals strength. It allows them to persevere and find courage in trying circumstances, or lead with kindness and love even when it’s not reciprocated. Those with a sense of purpose have more meaning in their life – and are more fulfilled.

 

This Coming Week's Character Strength:     Connection and Purpose

Next Week's Character Strength:     Leadership

 

 

Our Parent Teacher Association (PTA) information is below.

http://sangster.digitalpto.com/

 

Follow us on twitter: https://twitter.com/sangster_es

7420 Reservation Dr, Springfield, VA 22153  | Main Office: 703-644-8200

Attendance: 703-644-8282 | Web | Twitter

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

Update from the Principal

 

Dear Sangster Families,

All live instruction is canceled for today. This also includes virtual office hours.  Teachers have access to email today if you should have specific questions for them.

Late Tuesday evening we were notified that upgrades are required to the security measures in place within Blackboard Collaborate.  The purpose of today’s two-hour delay from FCPS was to enhance security measures. These new processes will require time for both staff members to make significant modifications to their Blackboard accounts.  Teachers have already spent most of the morning learning about these new security measures. They will need the rest of the day to re-establish their links on the Blackboard 24/7 page, and to make sure they are all securely functioning in connection with Blackboard Collaborate Ultra.

Students may work with their learning packets and teacher-generated online learning materials if you are currently able to access them in Blackboard 24/7. Due to the number of staff throughout FCPS working in Blackboard 24/7 we have noticed some sporadic connectivity issues.                                                                                                                                                                                       

On behalf of FCPS and the Sangster Staff, I apologize for this inconvenience and appreciate your flexibility. We want nothing more than to be working with your children.   I recognize that this may pose an inconvenience with a temporary break in a desperately needed routine, but I assure you that these technical changes are necessary to ensure a safe learning environment for our students moving forward.

The safety of your children and a safe learning environment for all is the current priority.  I anticipate there will be an email sent centrally later today with further information.

Thank you again for your patience as we make these security adjustments.

Sincerely,

Lisa M. Reddel

7420 Reservation Dr, Springfield, VA 22153  | Main Office: 703-644-8200

Attendance: 703-644-8282 | Web | Twitter

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

Message from the Principal

Dear Sangster Families,

We hope you are well.   Distance learning is certainly an adventure and we continue to appreciate your support, flexibility and communication.

Dr. Brabrand sent an email last night.  There is a district-wide 2-hour delay for direct-instruction this morning.  So, classes that are scheduled to begin at 8:30 a.m., will begin at 10:30 a.m.   This morning teachers are activating security upgrades to their Blackboard sites.  Your classroom teacher will be communicating directly with you later this morning about the schedule for the remainder of today.

Overall, we had a successful Day 1 of distance learning.  Thank you for all you are doing to help your children during this challenging time.  We are committed to doing all we can to support you.  We will get through this together and hope to get back to normalcy sometime soon.  Sangster Strong!

Sincerely,

Lisa M. Reddel

7420 Reservation Dr, Springfield, VA 22153  | Main Office: 703-644-8200

Attendance: 703-644-8282 | Web | Twitter

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

Join us for our virtual spirit week!!

  Sangster News You Choose

 

  Message from the Principal

Dear Sangster Families,

We hope you and your family are staying safe, staying healthy, and staying positive as we gear up for the second phase of the FCPS Distance Learning Plan.  We are also thrilled to see so many of you taking advantage of the valuable instructional resources available on the FCPS Blackboard site:  https://www.fcps.edu/resources/technology/fcps-24-7-learning.

Our staff is busy preparing a variety of synchronous and asynchronous learning opportunities for your children to begin on Tuesday, April 14th.   Teachers contacted all students last week and will be working with them again this week to get acquainted with online platforms and resources, while setting expectations and reviewing digital citizenship.  We appreciate your support in advance as they may need your help to get started.

As you read through the information below, please continue to be mindful of the fact that there will be some challenges along the way as we adjust to this new and different model.  Distance learning does not replicate the school day.  Our goal is to continue to inspire a love of learning in our students and provide a model for instruction that will continue to foster the growth and progress we have seen this year toward our standards of learning.   We will need your help as parents to keep your children ready and available for learning as much as possible, while we all manage the stresses associated with the health crisis.  This means doing your best to set expectations for routines, bedtimes, communication and encourage participation during the scheduled instructional opportunities.  We encourage you to communicate with teachers, support staff, and administration whenever needed so we can support each other in this process.

I want to reiterate that our teachers are also managing their own family systems, while completing their responsibilities as educators during this very stressful time.  As we learn together, the concept of Distance Learning will continue to improve for us, and in a few weeks, we will be in a rhythm and feel better about our ability to finish the school year strong. 

Thanks again for all you are doing to help your children stay focused and calm during this challenging time.  Our team sends its thoughts and prayers to each of the Sangster families and we are committed to doing all we can to support you.  We will get through this together and hope to get back to normalcy sometime soon.  Sangster Strong!

Sincerely,

Lisa M. Reddel

 

FCPS Distance Learning Plan

Information about the FCPS Distance Learning Plan can be found here:  https://www.fcps.edu/academics/distance-learning

Complete Plan is available here  (PDF)

 

Distance Learning Plan for Students with Disabilities

Sangster staff is working hard to prepare differentiated instruction for students with disabilities and are looking forward to connecting with the students they support and their families.  Please review the county-wide plan below for supporting students with disabilities.

https://www.fcps.edu/node/40612?utm_content=&utm_medium=email&utm_name=&utm_source=govdelivery&utm_term=

 

Learning Packets

Beginning today, a majority of the learning packets will be posted as fillable PDFs on the FCPS 24/7 Learning site.  Questions about using the learning packets during learning at home should be directed to your child’s teacher.  Materials used in the packets contain copyrighted materials so we are only able to post on Blackboard, not on the public website. Distance Learning Packets can be found here.  

Step by Step directions how to find learning packets are here:  https://www.fcps.edu/distance-learning/instruction/packets/how-to-find

 

Assessment

Students will be given a grade for 3rd quarter based on assignments given through March 13, 2020.  Students will not receive marks for 4th quarter, although their effort and progress within the Distance Learning window can be counted toward improving their Final Mark.  This Final Mark is the grade that will remain on their academic transcript.  Report cards will be mailed home centrally from FCPS.  More information will be forthcoming.

 

Attendance

Student attendance will be taken daily (Monday-Thursday) by classroom teachers during the “Virtual Teacher-Directed” Instructional hour when synchronous instruction is provided.  This is done to monitor participation across the division and to help teachers identify students they will need to check in with via a phone call later in the week to provide additional support.  This data will be entered in the Student Information System (SIS), but will not be included in the student attendance history needed for state reporting.

 

Advanced Academic Level IV Services

The AAP office will begin sending notifications to families regarding eligibility decisions for Level IV services for SY 2020-21 beginning on Monday, April 13.  Due to COVID-related closures, Instructional Services has created an electronic communications system to be used instead of paper letters sent by mail.  Parents will have until May 4, 2020 to accept placement so that we can communicate acceptances that impact staffing to principals in a timely manner.   Letters for students who are found ineligible will contain information about the appeals process.  The AAP office is extending the appeals deadline until July 15, 2020 because appeals cannot be completed until they are able to access the original files and convene an appeals committee.  The deadline date will be reconsidered if necessary.

 

Internet Connectivity

Mifi devices have been ordered by FCPS, although we do not have any new information on if/when they might be available to Sangster families.  Many of our families are connecting through cellular phone hotspots or through other mifi/computer devices available within the home.  There are also many companies offering discounted internet service and devices during this crisis.  Please visit the links below to learn more.

 

Cox 

https://www.cox.com/residential/internet/connect2compete/covid-19-response.html

 

Xfinity

https://www.xfinity.com/support/articles/comcast-broadband-opportunity-program   

 

Verizon

https://nationalverifier.servicenowservices.com/lifeline https://www.verizon.com/support/consumer/account/manage-account/lifeline-discount

 

Access to Computer/Tablet

Sangster administration has directed classroom teachers to connect with each student/family on their class roster.  They also identified families who do not have any access to technology while checking in with students over the past few weeks.  If you have a student in grades 3-6 and do not have access to any devices as a family or to internet, please contact your child’s teacher for support.

 

Access to the School Building

We are under explicit direction that staff and students should have extremely limited access to the school building during this health crisis. There are a few exceptions to include:

• Emergency pick up of medications (that cannot be obtained from the family physician).  
• Pick up of special education equipment needed for upcoming Distance Learning Instruction.
• Pick up of a resource or tool that is required for upcoming Distance Learning Instruction.

If you need to make arrangements for an essential pickup, please contact Allison Jankovich at ALJankovich@fcps.edu or Jennifer Redford at jaredford@fcps.edu.

 

New Student Registration for School Year 2020-2021

NEW STUDENT REGISTRATION for School Year 2020-2021 (Kindergarten-6th Grade) - Parents who have not yet completed the In Person Registration Appointment, please complete the following link: https://forms.gle/SD38Zdt1bbH29XEp7.  Our registrar will be in contact with you.

If you know of a new student that needs to register for the 2020-21 school year, please refer them to the Sangster website or contact Marian Hoelscher at mthoelscher@fcps.edu for more information.

 

Student Placements for 2020-2021

While it is still early to be thinking ahead to next year, we want to give you information about class placements for the 2020-2021 school-year ahead of time.  The staff at Sangster Elementary works hard to place students in an optimal learning situation each year.  If you have some information that would help us make those decisions, please send your comments in writing to Ms. Reddel by June 1st.  Please do not list teacher names.  Rather, describe the classroom academic learning environment in which your child learns best.

 

Yearbook Orders - Two Weeks Left

You can order Sangster yearbooks online at https://ybpay.lifetouch.com using Yearbook ID code 13246520.  LAST CHANCE to place your order online is April 25, 2020.

 

  Positivity Project - Week of April 13th

Our Positivity Project focus for this week is the Other People Matter Mindset with an emphasis on identifying and appreciating the good in others. Those who demonstrate this mindset work hard to identify and value others’ strengths. Ask your student to share what they have learned about their strengths this year.

 

This Week's Character Strength:     Other People Matter Mindset with an emphasis on identifying and appreciating the good in others

Next Week's Character Strength:  Appreciation of Beauty and Excellence

 

 

Our Parent Teacher Association (PTA) information is below.

http://sangster.digitalpto.com/

 

Follow us on twitter: https://twitter.com/sangster_es

7420 Reservation Dr, Springfield, VA 22153  | Main Office: 703-644-8200

Attendance: 703-644-8282 | Web | Twitter

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

Join us for our upcoming virtual spirit week!!

  Sangster News You Choose

 

  Stay Informed - Updates on Distance Learning Plan and COVID-19

https://www.fcps.edu/academics/distance-learning/instruction/learning-at-home

April 5 - Recently updated information in bold italics

• Facebook Live - Superintendent's Q&A on Facebook (April 3)
• FCPS Distance Learning
• Resources and strategies to support students as they prepare for distance learning: Learning at home
• Distance Learning Packets can be found here
• Complete Plan is available here  (PDF)
• Learn more about Plan:  Watch presentation
• Plan press release  
• Read Superintendent's Message on Plan 
• Read Message about Plan for Students with Disabilities 
• School Closure
• FCPS schools are closed through end of academic year in June.  Read the Superintendent's Message 
• All FCPS school buildings and administrative offices are closed until further notice
• Daily Update - FCPS provides a daily update to community. View updates.
• Resources
  • Inova’s preparedness for COVID-19: inova.org/covid19
  • FCPS Providing Mental Wellness Service for Students and Families
    • Mental Wellness Service
    • Frequently Asked Questions - Read updated FAQs
    • FCPS Office of Psychology Services Twitter Feed - 

      https://twitter.com/FCPSPsychs

    • Healthy Minds – Keeping Your Child Occupied While Schools Are Closed  (#3)

 

  Emergency Grab & Go Breakfasts and Lunches

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) will be serving grab and go meals during spring break, April 6-10.

Starting this past Monday, April 6, food distribution hours at FCPS school sites and curbside service sites will be from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Food distribution times at pop up sites and along bus routes are unchanged. Breakfast and lunch meals are available together wherever meals are being distributed.

View Complete List of Meal Sites and Times : www.fcps.edu/news/coronavirus-update-food-resources 

All FCPS students (regardless of age) are eligible for free grab and go breakfast and lunch, as well as other county children, under the age of 18. Adults picking up meals for children should let staff know how many children’s meals they need. Adult meals are $2. 

Curbside meal pick-up stations are generally located in the bus lanes at the schools or in the kiss and ride area.  Look for the canopy tent along with Food and Nutrition Services staff, who will deliver meals directly to vehicles. 

Walk-ups are still welcome at all sites. Walkers are asked to use school sidewalks to safely navigate their walk to the pick-up stations. 

As a reminder, it is important to follow social distancing guidelines. Be sure to stand a minimum of 6 feet apart from others and practice regular hand washing, including prior to leaving a residence to pick-up meals, upon returning home, and before consuming food.

 

  Families Needing Internet

Effective Monday, March 16, 2020, Comcast is offering 2 months free to new Internet Essentials customers in response to recent and anticipated emergency measures associated with the Coronavirus (COVID-19). Please use this website for more information: https://www.internetessentials.com/

 

  Counselor and Clinical Team Support

During this difficult time our clinical team continue to be here to help support our staff, students, and families.  Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have students who you are concerned about. 

 

Paula Augenstein

PHAugenstein@fcps.edu              School Guidance Counselor     K, 2, 4, 6

 

Lisa Railan                          

LTRailan@fcps.edu                       School Guidance Counselor     K, 1, 3, 5

 

Maggie Wilkerson           

mswilkerson@fcps.edu                 School Social Worker

 

Denise Mattingly             

dmattingly@fcps.edu                    School Psychologist

 

 

New Student Registration for School Year 2020-2021

NEW STUDENT REGISTRATION for School Year 2020-2021 (Kindergarten-6th Grade) - Parents who have not yet completed the In Person Registration Appointment, please complete the following link: https://forms.gle/SD38Zdt1bbH29XEp7.  Our registrar will be in contact with you.

If you know of a new student that needs to register for the 2020-21 school year, please refer them to the Sangster website or contact Marian Hoelscher at mthoelscher@fcps.edu for more information.

 

  Student Placements for 2020-2021

While it is still early to be thinking ahead to next year, we want to give you information about class placements for the 2020-2021 school-year ahead of time.  The staff at Sangster Elementary works hard to place students in an optimal learning situation each year.  If you have some information that would help us make those decisions, please send your comments in writing to Ms. Reddel by June 1st.  Please do not list teacher names.  Rather, describe the classroom academic learning environment in which your child learns best.

 

  Yearbook Orders - Nearing Final Call

You can order Sangster yearbooks online at https://ybpay.lifetouch.com using Yearbook ID code 13246520.  LAST CHANCE to place your order online is April 25, 2020.

 

  Positivity Project - Week of April 13th

Our Positivity Project focus for this week is the Other People Matter Mindset with an emphasis on identifying and appreciating the good in others. Those who demonstrate this mindset work hard to identify and value others’ strengths. Ask your student to share what they have learned about their strengths this year.

 

This Upcoming Week's Character Strength:     Other People Matter Mindset with an emphasis on identifying and appreciating the good in others

Next Week's Character Strength:  Appreciation of Beauty and Excellence

 

 

Our Parent Teacher Association (PTA) information is below.

http://sangster.digitalpto.com/

 

Follow us on twitter: https://twitter.com/sangster_es

7420 Reservation Dr, Springfield, VA 22153  | Main Office: 703-644-8200

Attendance: 703-644-8282 | Web | Twitter

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

  Sangster News You Choose

 

  Message from the Principal

 

Dear Sangster Families,

I hope this email finds you and your family safe and healthy.  Monday’s announcement to close schools for the remainder of the academic year is one of those events in our lifetime we will never forget. Some may have hoped for a big snowstorm to shut us down for a few days in the past, but we always knew we would be going back to our schools.  This is different.  While a disappointment for many, this is an understandable decision for the health and safety of our students, families and the community.  There will be many questions in the days and weeks ahead.  We are in the process of gathering answers and making plans.

We miss our students already.  Our amazing staff has already been exploring what learning can look like as this situation is unfolding.  There will be more information coming both centrally as a district and from Sangster.  In the meantime, please use the following links for the most updated FCPS information:

• COVID-19 and Academic Resources: https://www.fcps.edu/news/coronavirus-update.
• Dr. Brabrand's latest message: https://www.fcps.edu/news-features-and-events/news/coronavirus-update/coronavirus-update-messages-superintendent. 
• District Level and School level resources for continuity of learning: https://fcps.blackboard.com/webapps/login/
• FCPS cable channels with learning activities are available:
  • Channel 25 includes middle school programming 
  • Channel 99 includes high school programming
  • Channel 21 includes elementary school programming
• Some student links available online at https://sangsteres.fcps.edu/student-links. 

Please continue to access the posted resources on Blackboard.  Teachers and staff will be reaching out to you next week.  I understand for many of you this is frustrating.  We are all working through this together, as a school, district and community.  FCPS will determine a plan for getting student materials home at a later date.

For the past three years, we have had a strong emphasis on character education through The Positivity Project.  The strengths of Hope/Optimism and Resiliency are at work for all of us.  I believe the students of Sangster Elementary are uniquely poised to handle the challenges facing us all right now.

Thank you for your support and understanding during this difficult time.  As additional information becomes available, we will communicate with you as quickly as possible.  Take good care and stay healthy.  Sangster Strong!

Sincerely,

Lisa M. Reddel

Principal

 

Emergency Grab & Go Breakfasts and Lunches

Fairfax County Public Schools is providing emergency breakfast and lunch at more sites and is adding deliveries by school bus beginning Thursday, March 19.  Updates to locations can be found on the Food Resources page (https://www.fcps.edu/news/coronavirus-update-food-resources).

Meals will be provided to all students without charge and are the same for all children regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability, and there will be no discrimination in the course of the meal service.  Meals will be provided on a first come, first served basis, at the sites and times listed. The food distribution is set up outside at each site.   All meals are available at no cost to children 18 years and under.   Adult lunches are available for purchase for $2.  More information on this is available here: https://www.fcps.edu/news/coronavirus-update-food-resources.

 

Families Needing Internet

Effective Monday, March 16, 2020, Comcast is offering 2 months free to new Internet Essentials customers in response to recent and anticipated emergency measures associated with the Coronavirus (COVID-19). Please use this website for more information: https://www.internetessentials.com/

 

Counselor and Clinical Team Support

During this difficult time our clinical team continue to be here to help support our staff, students, and families.  Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have students who you are concerned about. 

 

Paula Augenstein

PHAugenstein@fcps.edu              School Guidance Counselor     K, 2, 4, 6

 

Lisa Railan                          

LTRailan@fcps.edu                       School Guidance Counselor     K, 1, 3, 5

 

Maggie Wilkerson           

mswilkerson@fcps.edu                 School Social Worker

 

Denise Mattingly             

dmattingly@fcps.edu                    School Psychologist

 

Student Placements for 2020-2021

While it is still early to be thinking ahead to next year, we want to give you information about class placements for the 2020-2021 school-year ahead of time.  The staff at Sangster Elementary works hard to place students in an optimal learning situation each year.  If you have some information that would help us make those decisions, please send your comments in writing to Ms. Reddel by June 1st.  Please do not list teacher names.  Rather, describe the classroom academic learning environment in which your child learns best.

 

Kindergarten Orientation on April 1, cancelled

If you know of a kindergartener who needs to register for the 2020-21 school year, please email Marian Hoelscher, our student registrar, at mthoelscher@fcps.edu.  Please share this information with any parent of a rising Kindergarten child in your neighborhood that may not have a child currently at Sangster.  More information will be coming later about how to register.

 

Yearbook Orders - Nearing Final Call

You can order Sangster yearbooks online at https://ybpay.lifetouch.com using Yearbook ID code 13246520.  LAST CHANCE to place your order online is April 25, 2020.

 

  Positivity Project - Week of March 29th

This week’s character strength is Humor.  You show this strength when you like to laugh and bring smiles to others.  For individuals, humor has important health benefits, both mental and physical.  Humor stretches the mind to look at things from different perspectives, keeping people mentally agile and alert. Making people laugh also produces positive emotions and happiness for the initiator.  And, when people are on the receiving end of humor, they also receive many benefits.  Scientists have shown that laughter reduces stress, promotes connection with other people, and can even improve focus.  Laughter is contagious and bonds us to other people.

This Upcoming Week's Character Strength:     Humor

The Week of April 12th's Character Strength:  Other People Matter Mindset with an emphasis on identifying and appreciating the good in others

 

 

Our Parent Teacher Association (PTA) information is below.

http://sangster.digitalpto.com/

 

Follow us on twitter: https://twitter.com/sangster_es

7420 Reservation Dr, Springfield, VA 22153  | Main Office: 703-644-8200

Attendance: 703-644-8282 | Web | Twitter