FCPS

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A Message from our Administrators

Dear Hunt Valley Community,

We will have our 3rd annual Wellness Fair on Thursday, March 13th from 6-7:30pm! For this event, our community and school have partnered together to promote a balanced lifestyle focusing on fitness, mindfulness, and nutrition. If you are able to volunteer, please use the Sign-Up Link.

Next Friday, February 28th is our Spelling Bee. Please consider attending to support all our spellers!

Please see below for information about:

• Black History Month
• SCA February Notes
• Ramadan
• Kindergarten Orientation
• Purple Up! Day T-shirts
• VDH Immunization Packets for Rising 7th Graders
• Irving Musical Theatre Performance
• Dual Language Immersion Lottery
• Science, Technology and Arts Magnet Schools
• Immunizations
• Health Reminders
• Updating Emergency Contacts
• Varsity Tutors
• Yearbook Ordering Information

We hope that everyone has a fantastic long weekend! 

Sincerely,

Keieownna Hightower, Principal

Chrissy Gibbs, Assistant Principal

Eric Kopacz, Assistant Principal

Mark Your Calendar

February 28--Spelling Bee

March 10--3-hour Early Release

March 13--Wellness Fair 6:00-7:30

April 3--STEAM Fair

  Black History Month Kick-Off Celebration 

FCPS’ Chief Equity Office invites the community to an Inaugural Black History Month Kickoff Celebration on Wednesday, February 19, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at Carter G. Woodson High School.   

The event begins with a light reception followed by a formal program, From the Threads of Our Past to the Fabric of Our Future. The program will honor the enduring contributions of Black history and culture while envisioning a future rooted in equity and excellence. It will include inspiring performances, personal stories, reflections, and opportunities to connect and celebrate. The event is open to the entire community. 

For more information, contact Nina Thomas, senior manager for Professional Learning and Cultural Responsiveness.

 

Febraury 28- March 29 - Ramadan

Ramadan begins at sundown on Friday, February 28. This day is an evening-only observance day. There is school on these days, but certain activities that cannot be made up can not take place after school. See the complete school year calendar.

Throughout the year, as we celebrate and recognize various cultural holidays and observances, families are encouraged to contact their child’s school regarding accommodations, including but not limited to those around lunch, prayer/meditation and silent reflection spaces and times, and instruction. 

Ramadan is the most sacred month of the year, a time for spiritual discipline for Muslims, who believe it was during this month that God revealed the first verses of the Quran to Mohammed. Read more about Ramadan in National Geographic Kids. 

For students who will be fasting and would like an alternate location during their lunch, one will be provided where they can engage socially with their peers. If your child will be fasting during this time, please reach out to your child's teacher so we can plan accordingly.

Student Fasting Meal Kits for February 28 - March 28

Thanks to a new program from the Virginia Department of Education, students who are fasting during the school day between February 28 and March 28 can now take school meal kits home at the end of the day.Families will need to fill out a weekly Fasting Meals Request Form for their child or children to receive school meal kits.

A separate form must be filled out for each week and each student.To receive meal kits for Friday, February 28, and the week of March 3, please submit the first request form by Monday, February 24. Visit the FNS webpage for more information, including weekly request forms and deadlines.

 

  Purple-Up! Day T-Shirts Available for Purchase

 

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is gearing up to honor and celebrate its military-connected youth in April, the Month of the Military Child and on Purple Up! Day! 

Due to schools being out for spring break, Virginia will celebrate Purple Up! Day on Wednesday, April 9, 2025. Purple Up! Day is a special day for communities to come together and wear purple as a visible gesture of support for our military-connected youth and their families. The color purple symbolizes the combined colors of all branches of the military. 

FCPS Purple Up! t-shirts are available for purchase until Friday, March 7, 2025, through Custom Ink.

The shirts highlight our gratitude and appreciation for our over 13,500 military-connected students and their families. #PurpleUpFCPS! 

For more information and/or to connect with FCPS resources, email us at [email protected]. 

VDH Immunization Packets for Rising 7th Graders 

As required by the Code of Virginia, parents or legal guardians need to provide proof of immunizations for their child to attend public school. All students entering seventh grade are required to receive one dose of each of the following immunizations: 

• Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis booster (Tdap) given at age 7 or older.
• Meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY) given at age 10 or older.
• A complete series of 2 doses of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. 

• After reviewing educational materials approved by the Board of Health, the parent or guardian, at the parents/guardians sole discretion, may elect for the child not to receive the HPV vaccine.

Parents/guardians are encouraged to plan ahead by scheduling an appointment with their child’s health care provider now to avoid the rush this summer. If your child does not have a health care provider, please visit the FCPS Immunizations Resource page to find out where to get an immunization.

Please review the Virginia Department of Health Information Packet for more information on rising 7th grade immunization requirements. 

Washington Irving Musical Theatre Performance - Frozen, Jr. 

Tickets are available to purchase here.

🗺️ Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration

Countywide lottery registration for the Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program for first graders in the 2025-26 school year is open through Thursday, February 13, at 4 p.m. Current pre-K students may apply for the kindergarten immersion program through Thursday, March 6, at 4 p.m.  

Dual Language Immersion is available in French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. 

Interested parents/caregivers may attend an informational meeting at the school site. Visit the Dual Language Immersion Program registration page for a list of meetings by language offered. 

Get more details on the DLI Program webpage.

🧲 Learn About Science, Technology, and Arts Magnet Schools

Three FCPS elementary magnet schools — Hunters Woods, Bailey’s Primary, and Bailey’s Upper — provide enhanced learning programs in science, technology, and performing arts. 

Registration for the 2025-26 elementary magnet lottery is open Tuesday, March 4, through Friday, April 4. Learn more about the programs on the Elementary Magnet Schools page and information on the magnet lottery on our Registration page.

Learn More About How Your Child Feels at School

The Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener will be administered to students in grades 3-12 in March. Students use the SEL Screener twice a year to share their perspectives on how well their school and community help them develop the skills they need to succeed. The screener works by asking questions or presenting statements that students can think about and respond to. This gives students a way to share how well their school community makes them feel valued, included, and supported.

After each screening, results are available in the Documents tab of SIS ParentVUE and mailed to families who do not have a ParentVUE account. For more information, including SEL Screener questions and opt-out information, please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage. 

Health Reminders ❤️‍🩹

Fairfax County is experiencing very high levels of influenza (flu) illness. The Fairfax County Health Department reports that visits to emergency departments and urgent care centers for flu-like illness have increased, especially among children, and multiple flu outbreaks have occurred in our community and school settings. Read a letter from the health department. 

The health department suggests taking the following steps to reduce the spread of flu and other germs:    

• Cover coughs and sneezes. If you must be around others while ill, wearing a mask can help reduce spread.
• Wash hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available (with supervision for younger children).
• Clean frequently touched surfaces.

According to the health department, to help prevent or reduce the spread of illness it is important for individuals who are sick to stay home and away from others until symptoms improve and until they have been free of fever for at least 24 hours. Visit this Attendance webpage for guidance on when your child should go to school. 

During the winter months students have experienced dry skin and/or chapped lips. Students may bring to school and carry non-prescription lotion and chap stick for these symptoms. 

Thank you for your support in keeping our school community healthy. If you have any questions or need additional information, please feel free to reach out. 

Make Sure Your Children Are Up-to-Date on Immunizations

Please make sure your child has all of their necessary immunizations. Remember, all students are required to be immunized against certain diseases to attend school in Virginia. This is an important part of keeping children healthy!

Starting Monday, May 19, students who have not provided proof of immunization may not be allowed to attend school. You can check your child’s immunization status and submit updated immunization information by accessing SIS ParentVUE. 

Please check with your healthcare provider to make sure your child is up to date on required immunizations for the 2024-25 school year. If your child needs an immunization, make an appointment with your healthcare provider, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or view other Immunization Resources. Be wise and immunize!

Returning to In-Person Work?

If you are no longer telecommuting, please make sure your emergency contact information is updated. You can update via ParentVue. 

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

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

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https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C094DA5AF2EA6FECF8-51771041-lunch

7107 Sydenstricker Rd., Springfield, VA 22152  |  Phone: 703.913.8800

Attendance: 703.913.8820 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

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Hunt Valley PTA News You Choose

We communicate with PTA members and the entire Hunt Valley community about events sponsored by the Hunt Valley Elementary Parent-Teacher Association. If you do not wish to receive PTA emails, please unsubscribe to PTA "News You Choose" using the link at the bottom of this bulletin. 

Hunt Valley ES News You Choose official school communication is sent separately on Fridays with information from HVES Administration. 

                            Click here to get to the Hunt Valley website.

  PTA Important Dates

Friday, February 28, 2025

Spelling Bee, School Cafeteria, 6:00pm - 7:30pm

Tuesday, March 4, 2025

Book Swap, School Lobby, during the school day

Tuesday, March, 11, 2025

March Virtual PTA Meeting, 7:00pm - 8:00pm

Join us here: https://meet.google.com/gdf-rhfg-som

Thursday, March 13, 2025

Wellness Fair (school led), School, 6:00pm - 7:30pm

Thursday, April 3, 2025

STEAM Fair (school led), more details coming soon

EVERY MONDAY

Spirit Night @ Eat Pizza (mention or type “Hunt Valley” in comment box) all day

EVERY TUESDAY

Spirit Night @ Papa Johns (code HVES4010) all day

A Message from the PTA Vice President

We are thrilled to congratulate Connor for winning first place for his poem in the Accessible Arts Division at the Fairfax County Council level! This is a remarkable achievement, and we couldn’t be prouder.

A special thank you goes to Daphne, our Reflection Chair, for her hard work and dedication in making this happen.

The FCCPTA Reflections Awards Ceremony will take place on February 28 at 7 PM at Lake Braddock Secondary School, in the Little Theater (Entrance 14). If you’re interested in attending the ceremony, please be sure to RSVP by February 25 using the link below:

2024-2025 FCCPTA Student Reflections Awards Ceremony RSVP - Theme: Accepting Imperfection

If you need anything, please reach out to [email protected] or [email protected].

Sincerely,

Anusilan Sherpa

Hunt Valley PTA Vice President ​

February School Supply Restock

We are well into the second half of the year, and teachers are running low on some school supplies (tissues, anyone?). Here is a SignUp Genius with the needs of all teachers and staff who would appreciate anything you can send in.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E0D44ADAB2DABFE3-54930651-february

HVES Book Swap Coming Soon!

When: Tuesday, March 4, 2025

What: Each student is invited to bring in school-aged books in good condition they want to donate and they will be able to take a “new” book or two home the following week 

How: Classrooms will sign-up and walkthrough the tables during the school day

Collection Dates: February 24 - 28. Bins will be placed outside the school doors and there will be bins inside the school lobby for students to drop off

Need More of: Chapter books, grades 4 -6 level reading

Not Accepting: Textbooks, religious books, cookbooks, encyclopedias, dictionaries, activity books

Volunteers Needed: Sort books and support day of event. Sign-up coming soon

Questions: Kate Johnson at [email protected]

Hunt Valley 2nd Annual Scripps Spelling Bee

The 2025 Hunt Valley Scripps Spelling Bee was open to all students (K-6) and will be held at Hunt Valley Cafeteria on Friday, February 28, 2025, 6:00–8:00 p.m.

Registration for the Hunt Valley Bee is now closed.

We have 46 registered students competing!

Questions: Email [email protected]

Hunt Valley 3rd Annual Wellness Fair

When: Thursday, March 13th from 6-7:30pm

What:  This is a free community event supporting overall mental and physical well-being. Our community and school have partnered together to promote a balanced lifestyle focusing on fitness, mindfulness, and nutrition.

Volunteers Needed:Please click on the Sign-Up Link to volunteer. Thank you! https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E44ABAA2AA3FEC07-55187716-2025

2025-2026 Board and Chair Positions

 

2025-2026 PTA Board

• President: Collaborate with the board to set PTA goals aligned with school needs, lead meetings, oversee the board & committees, partner with the school admin, teachers, and staff, work with the Treasurer to manage funds transparently, and support committee event planning and program management
• Treasurer: Managing the PTA's finances, including collecting and depositing income, maintaining accurate financial records, creating and monitoring the budget, paying bills, preparing financial reports, and ensuring proper accounting procedures are followed.

Volunteers Needed for the following events

• Teacher Appreciation Week (May 5 - 9) | Email Jillian at [email protected]
• Spring Fling Coordinator (May 9) | Email Iris at [email protected]

The chair positions must be filled if we are to continue to hold the same great events next year.  Please reach out if you're able to help support your PTA. If you were the chair this year and would like to continue next year, please let us know so we can mark that position as filled. We do not want to assume that you will continue next year :).

HVES PTA’s Amazon Affiliate Link

EARNINGS TO DATE: $19.99

Support Hunt Valley PTA with Your Amazon Shopping! Use the PTA’s Affiliate Link for your Amazon purchases: https://amzn.to/4dpxoJX

Every purchase you make through our link sends a small commission our way, helping us fund fun events, educational programs, and so much more for our amazing kids. 🎉🎓

It’s simple:

    1.    Click on our Amazon Affiliate Link (https://amzn.to/4dpxoJX)

    2.    Shop as you normally would.

    3.    Feel great knowing you’re contributing to a better school experience for all our students! 😃

 Thank you for your support and happy shopping! Let’s make every purchase count! 🏫💛

Join the PTA!

PTA memberships are available for purchase in our online store only for $10! A digital PTA member/student directory is included in the membership price. Teachers and Staff get a $5 discount off in-person spirit wear purchases.

Remember, your PTA membership goes to support students and staff in many ways! Email [email protected] with questions.

School Directory Information: COMING SOON!

General Information & Communication Volunteer Opportunities

We depend on our parent volunteers!

Please use the QR code below or reach out to our PTA Volunteer Coordinator, Sarah Tinsley, at [email protected] to join the mailing list for volunteers. 

 https://forms.gle/ifKFuqzzrwqQbPN17

The following positions are still open for the 2024-2025 school year. You do not have to do it alone. Grab a friend and be a powerful team with the help of a PTA Board Member as your Champion:

●      Teacher/Staff Appreciation Week (May 5-9, 2025)

●      Spring Fling (May 16, 2025)

If you are interested in learning more, please reach out to [email protected].

PTA Website!

Check out our new PTA website if you haven’t done so already. For those that need it, the school code is: KB63B8. It is designed to make staying up-to-date with latest events and being involved easier than ever! Our site features a user-friendly interface with everything you need most in one place: 

●      Event Calendar: Sync PTA events and FCPS holidays directly to your personal calendar so you never miss out.

●      Volunteer Sign-Ups: Easily find and sign up for volunteer opportunities that fit your schedule.

●      Student Directory (coming soon): Connect with other families and classmates through our secure online student directory in which only paid members have access, making it easy to arrange playdates, birthday party invitations, study groups, or just stay in touch.

●      Announcements: Stay updated with the latest news and important information from the PTA.

Account creation is required to access full features. Visit our new website today (https://hvpta.ptboard.com/) and explore how we’re making it simpler for families to engage and support our school community! 

If you are interested in learning more, please reach out to [email protected].

Official Hunt Valley PTA Facebook Group

Join the Hunt Valley PTA Facebook Group to stay updated on the latest events, volunteer opportunities, important announcements, and shoutouts celebrating amazing moments. Our group is a space for parents, teachers, and staff to connect, collaborate, and support each other in creating the best learning environment for our students. Follow us for real-time updates, tips, and ways to get involved in making our school community even better! 

Hunt Valley Elementary Parents Facebook Group

You are invited to join the unofficial Facebook group for the Hunt Valley community, Hunt Valley Elementary Parents. Please note that anyone who requests to join, including someone added by an existing group member, must answer the membership questions and check the box indicating agreement to abide by the group rules. If your membership has not been approved, this is likely why; check your Facebook messages (you may have to dig around for the section for messages from non-friends) for assistance from an admin. Please note that this group is not sponsored by the school or the PTA!

PTA Loves Our Local Business Sponsors!

The PTA is proud to announce that we have received a new sponsor. They want to support the PTA, Hunt Valley Elementary, and the Hunt Valley Community. Our newest sponsors include:

●      Peraspori - If you love and appreciate real, pure cold pressed extra virgin olive oil and olives, shop at Peraspori that get it shipped directly from Greece to Virginia. They are also sold in a local shop in Bon Air, VA. If you are passing by, stop by and support.

●      Brian Huber Realtor, Samson Properties - Contact Brian Huber if you are in the market to buy or sell a home. He is an experienced Realtor and Certified Negotiation Expert (CNE). His average days on the market is 9 days and for 98% of list price.

Thank you for your continued support!

●      Arceli Brown from State Farm - Contact Arceli Brown for your home, auto or any insurance needs.

●      Waverly Der from Elite M.A. Burke - Contact Waverly Der, the Program Director, if you’re interested in having your kids learn lasting life skills through martial arts. They teach self-confidence, respect & manners, goal-setting skills, self-defense skills, strength & fitness. Also check out their afterschool program at their facility.

●      Dianna Carr from Be Well Health Coaching - Contact Dianna Carr if you are interested in having a health coach, personal trainer, learn about nutrition and strategies to become a better, healthier version of you.

For more information on each of the sponsors, you can find their marketing material on the PTA Website at https://hvpta.ptboard.com/school/cm?mid=6805.

Help us find more business sponsors to support the PTA

As a Hunt Valley PTA Sponsor, for only $250, the contribution will directly benefit our students and school community, helping us continue to provide enriching experiences for everyone. The business will receive the following benefits:

●      Recognition in Our Weekly Newsletter

●      Acknowledgment at Monthly PTA Meetings

●      Visibility and Invitation to All PTA Sponsored Community Events

●      Tax Deduction

Our goal is to receive 10 corporate sponsorships this year. Help us achieve our goal! If you are interested in finding sponsors or becoming a sponsor and supporting the Hunt Valley PTA, please contact us at [email protected]  

For more info, visit the Hunt Valley Elementary School PTA website

If you have comments or suggestions for this newsletter, email [email protected]

7107 Sydenstricker Rd., Springfield, VA 22152  |  Phone: 703.913.8800

Attendance: 703.913.8820 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

A Message from our Administrators

Dear Hunt Valley Community,

Happy Valentine's Day! Today, several of our grade levels had a party to celebrate the day. Thank you to all the parent volunteers and teachers that helped to organize and lead the stations, games and activities for our students. As we walked around the building today, it was great to see the smiles on the students faces and hear the laughter fill the hallways.  

Fairfax County is experiencing very high levels of influenza (flu) illness. The Fairfax County Health Department reports that visits to emergency departments and urgent care centers for flu-like illness have increased, especially among children, and multiple flu outbreaks have occurred in our community and school settings. Read a letter from the health department. 

The health department suggests taking the following steps to reduce the spread of flu and other germs:    

• Cover coughs and sneezes. If you must be around others while ill, wearing a mask can help reduce spread.
• Wash hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available (with supervision for younger children).
• Clean frequently touched surfaces.

According to the health department, to help prevent or reduce the spread of illness it is important for individuals who are sick to stay home and away from others until symptoms improve and until they have been free of fever for at least 24 hours. Visit this Attendance webpage for guidance on when your child should go to school. 

All schools and offices will be closed on Monday, February 17, for the Presidents Day holiday. See the complete school year calendar.

Please see below for information about:

• Black History Month
• SCA February Notes
• Ramadan
• Kindergarten Orientation
• Irving Musical Theatre Performance
• Dual Language Immersion Lottery
• Science, Technology and Arts Magnet Schools
• Immunizations
• Health Reminders
• Updating Emergency Contacts
• Yearbook Ordering Information

We hope that everyone has a fantastic long weekend! 

Sincerely,

Keieownna Hightower, Principal

Chrissy Gibbs, Assistant Principal

Eric Kopacz, Assistant Principal

Mark Your Calendar

February 17--President's Day Holiday NO SCHOOL

February 28--Spelling Bee

March 10--3-hour Early Release

  Black History Month Kick-Off Celebration 

FCPS’ Chief Equity Office invites the community to an Inaugural Black History Month Kickoff Celebration on Wednesday, February 19, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at Carter G. Woodson High School.   

The event begins with a light reception followed by a formal program, From the Threads of Our Past to the Fabric of Our Future. The program will honor the enduring contributions of Black history and culture while envisioning a future rooted in equity and excellence. It will include inspiring performances, personal stories, reflections, and opportunities to connect and celebrate. The event is open to the entire community. 

For more information, contact Nina Thomas, senior manager for Professional Learning and Cultural Responsiveness.

 

Febraury 28- March 29 - Ramadan

Ramadan begins at sundown on Friday, February 28. This day is an evening-only observance day. There is school on these days, but certain activities that cannot be made up can not take place after school. See the complete school year calendar.

Throughout the year, as we celebrate and recognize various cultural holidays and observances, families are encouraged to contact their child’s school regarding accommodations, including but not limited to those around lunch, prayer/meditation and silent reflection spaces and times, and instruction. 

Ramadan is the most sacred month of the year, a time for spiritual discipline for Muslims, who believe it was during this month that God revealed the first verses of the Quran to Mohammed. Read more about Ramadan in National Geographic Kids. 

For students who will be fasting and would like an alternate location during their lunch, one will be provided where they can engage socially with their peers. If your child will be fasting during this time, please reach out to your child's teacher so we can plan accordingly.

Student Fasting Meal Kits for February 28 - March 28

Thanks to a new program from the Virginia Department of Education, students who are fasting during the school day between February 28 and March 28 can now take school meal kits home at the end of the day.Families will need to fill out a weekly Fasting Meals Request Form for their child or children to receive school meal kits.

A separate form must be filled out for each week and each student.To receive meal kits for Friday, February 28, and the week of March 3, please submit the first request form by Monday, February 24. Visit the FNS webpage for more information, including weekly request forms and deadlines.

Washington Irving Musical Theatre Performance - Frozen, Jr. 

Tickets are available to purchase here.

🗺️ Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration

Countywide lottery registration for the Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program for first graders in the 2025-26 school year is open through Thursday, February 13, at 4 p.m. Current pre-K students may apply for the kindergarten immersion program through Thursday, March 6, at 4 p.m.  

Dual Language Immersion is available in French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. 

Interested parents/caregivers may attend an informational meeting at the school site. Visit the Dual Language Immersion Program registration page for a list of meetings by language offered. 

Get more details on the DLI Program webpage.

🧲 Learn About Science, Technology, and Arts Magnet Schools

Three FCPS elementary magnet schools — Hunters Woods, Bailey’s Primary, and Bailey’s Upper — provide enhanced learning programs in science, technology, and performing arts. 

Registration for the 2025-26 elementary magnet lottery is open Tuesday, March 4, through Friday, April 4. Learn more about the programs on the Elementary Magnet Schools page and information on the magnet lottery on our Registration page.

Learn More About How Your Child Feels at School

The Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener will be administered to students in grades 3-12 in March. Students use the SEL Screener twice a year to share their perspectives on how well their school and community help them develop the skills they need to succeed. The screener works by asking questions or presenting statements that students can think about and respond to. This gives students a way to share how well their school community makes them feel valued, included, and supported.

After each screening, results are available in the Documents tab of SIS ParentVUE and mailed to families who do not have a ParentVUE account. For more information, including SEL Screener questions and opt-out information, please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage. 

Health Reminders ❤️‍🩹

Flu season is here, and we all want to keep our students healthy and safe. Please remind your child to practice good hygiene, such as washing their hands frequently and covering their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.

If your child is feeling unwell, especially with flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, or body aches, we ask that you keep them at home to rest and recover and be fever free for 24 hours without medication, before returning to school. This helps prevent the spread of illness to others.

During the winter months students have experienced dry skin and/or chapped lips. Students may bring to school and carry non-prescription lotion and chap stick for these symptoms. 

Thank you for your support in keeping our school community healthy. If you have any questions or need additional information, please feel free to reach out. 

Make Sure Your Children Are Up-to-Date on Immunizations

Please make sure your child has all of their necessary immunizations. Remember, all students are required to be immunized against certain diseases to attend school in Virginia. This is an important part of keeping children healthy!

Starting Monday, May 19, students who have not provided proof of immunization may not be allowed to attend school. You can check your child’s immunization status and submit updated immunization information by accessing SIS ParentVUE. 

Please check with your healthcare provider to make sure your child is up to date on required immunizations for the 2024-25 school year. If your child needs an immunization, make an appointment with your healthcare provider, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or view other Immunization Resources. Be wise and immunize!

Returning to In-Person Work?

If you are no longer telecommuting, please make sure your emergency contact information is updated. You can update via ParentVue. 

Community Boundary Review Meetings

📍 Comprehensive Boundary Review Update

The Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee held its second meeting on December 16 at Gatehouse Administration Center. View key takeaways from that meeting and access the meeting agenda, slides, and other materials that committee members received.  If you did not get a chance to attend an in-person Community Boundary Review Meeting, please consider participating in a virtual meeting:

• Monday, February 10, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

Language interpretation will be available. 

All virtual meetings will follow the same format as the in-person meetings that were recently held, and the same information will be shared. Please stay tuned for details on how to register. Visit FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage to learn more. Sign up for FCPS’ School Boundary Review newsletter as well.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C094DA5AF2EA6FECF8-51211530-cafeteria

 

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C094DA5AF2EA6FECF8-51771041-lunch

7107 Sydenstricker Rd., Springfield, VA 22152  |  Phone: 703.913.8800

Attendance: 703.913.8820 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

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

Hunt Valley PTA News You Choose

We communicate with PTA members and the entire Hunt Valley community about events sponsored by the Hunt Valley Elementary Parent-Teacher Association. If you do not wish to receive PTA emails, please unsubscribe to PTA "News You Choose" using the link at the bottom of this bulletin. 

Hunt Valley ES News You Choose official school communication is sent separately on Fridays with information from HVES Administration. 

                            Click here to get to the Hunt Valley website.

  PTA Important Dates

Friday, February 28, 2025

Spelling Bee, School Cafeteria, 6:00pm - 7:30pm

Tuesday, March 4, 2025

Book Swap, School Lobby, during the school day

Tuesday, March, 11, 2025

March Virtual PTA Meeting, 7:00pm - 8:00pm

Join us here: https://meet.google.com/gdf-rhfg-som

Thursday, March 13, 2025

Wellness Fair (school led), School, 6:00pm - 7:30pm

Thursday, April 3, 2025

STEAM Fair (school led), more details coming soon

EVERY MONDAY

Spirit Night @ Eat Pizza (mention or type “Hunt Valley” in comment box) all day

EVERY TUESDAY

Spirit Night @ Papa Johns (code HVES4010) all day

 

A Message from the PTA President

Dear Hunt Valley Families,

Thank you to everyone who joined us in celebrating Hunt Valley’s first annual Science Fair! We had a fantastic turnout, with a great crowd, engaging projects, and excited students who had an amazing time.

Each presenter had the opportunity to share their project on the microphone, give demonstrations, and even let attendees participate in experiments—making the event both fun and interactive!

A special thank you to our incredible Co-Chairs, Tori Whyte and Megan Caprio, along with Anusilan Sherpa, our PTA Board Champion, for their dedication in making this event a success.

We can’t wait for next year’s Science Fair! 🚀🔬✨

 

Lastly, please review the open roles below that we need to fill for next year’s PTA. We must fill the President and Treasurer role to have a PTA. The chair positions must be filled if we are to continue to hold the same great events next year.  Please reach out if you're able to help support your PTA. If you were the chair this year and would like to continue next year, please let us know so we can mark that position as filled.

If you need anything, please reach out to [email protected] or [email protected].

Sincerely,

Iris Stoyanov

Hunt Valley PTA President

  Exciting News from the PTA President

We received exciting news—a STEAM Fair is happening on Thursday, April 3, 2025, led by Mrs. Lawson and the school!

If you participated in the Science Fair and would like to present your project again, hold onto it for an encore showcase at the STEAM Fair. It’s a great opportunity to share your work with even more people! Stay tuned for more details! 🚀🔬🎨

In the event that Wednesday is closed due to the inclement weather, stay safe and warm out there. I am sure the kids would love the extra snow days we’re having this year. 

If you need anything, please reach out to [email protected] or [email protected]. 

Sincerely,

Iris Stoyanov

Hunt Valley PTA President ​

Click to edit this placeholder text.

 

Volunteers Needed: Sort books and support day of event. Sign-up coming soon

The Science Fair registration has closed and we have 30+ projects! It was open to all students (K-6). It is a fun way to explore topics in science, math, and engineering. It will be held at Hunt Valley Gym on Friday, February 7 from 6PM - 7:30PM. Everyone is invited to attend. There will be live demonstrations, and a scavenger hunt for items found in the projects.

If you would like to be a parent volunteer, please sign up: Volunteer Sign Up

 

HVES Book Swap Coming Soon!

 

When: Tuesday, March 4, 2025

What: Each student is invited to bring in school-aged books in good condition they want to donate and they will be able to take a “new” book or two home the following week 

How: Classrooms will sign-up and walkthrough the tables during the school day

Collection Dates: February 24 - 28. Bins will be placed outside the school doors and there will be bins inside the school lobby for students to drop off

Need More of: Chapter books, grades 4 -6 level reading

Not Accepting: Textbooks, religious books, cookbooks, encyclopedias, dictionaries, activity books

Volunteers Needed: Sort books and support day of event. Sign-up coming soon

 

Questions: Kate Johnson at [email protected]

Hunt Valley 2nd Annual Scripps Spelling Bee

The 2025 Hunt Valley Scripps Spelling Bee was open to all students (K-6) and will be held at Hunt Valley Cafeteria on Friday, February 28, 2025, 6:00–8:00 p.m.

Registration for the Hunt Valley Bee is now closed.

We have 46 registered students competing!

Questions: Email [email protected]

2025-2026 Board and Chair Positions

 

2025-2026 PTA Board

• President: Collaborate with the board to set PTA goals aligned with school needs, lead meetings, oversee the board & committees, partner with the school admin, teachers, and staff, work with the Treasurer to manage funds transparently, and support committee event planning and program management
• Treasurer: Managing the PTA's finances, including collecting and depositing income, maintaining accurate financial records, creating and monitoring the budget, paying bills, preparing financial reports, and ensuring proper accounting procedures are followed.

Volunteers Needed for the following events

• Teacher Appreciation Week (May 5 - 9) | Email Jillian at [email protected]
• Spring Fling Coordinator (May 9) | Email Iris at [email protected]

The chair positions must be filled if we are to continue to hold the same great events next year.  Please reach out if you're able to help support your PTA. If you were the chair this year and would like to continue next year, please let us know so we can mark that position as filled. We do not want to assume that you will continue next year :).

HVES PTA’s Amazon Affiliate Link

EARNINGS TO DATE: $19.99

Support Hunt Valley PTA with Your Amazon Shopping! Use the PTA’s Affiliate Link for your Amazon purchases: https://amzn.to/4dpxoJX

Every purchase you make through our link sends a small commission our way, helping us fund fun events, educational programs, and so much more for our amazing kids. 🎉🎓

It’s simple:

    1.    Click on our Amazon Affiliate Link (https://amzn.to/4dpxoJX)

    2.    Shop as you normally would.

    3.    Feel great knowing you’re contributing to a better school experience for all our students! 😃

 Thank you for your support and happy shopping! Let’s make every purchase count! 🏫💛

Join the PTA!

PTA memberships are available for purchase in our online store only for $10! A digital PTA member/student directory is included in the membership price. Teachers and Staff get a $5 discount off in-person spirit wear purchases.

Remember, your PTA membership goes to support students and staff in many ways! Email [email protected] with questions.

School Directory Information: COMING SOON!

General Information & Communication Volunteer Opportunities

We depend on our parent volunteers!

Please use the QR code below or reach out to our PTA Volunteer Coordinator, Sarah Tinsley, at [email protected] to join the mailing list for volunteers. 

 https://forms.gle/ifKFuqzzrwqQbPN17

The following positions are still open for the 2024-2025 school year. You do not have to do it alone. Grab a friend and be a powerful team with the help of a PTA Board Member as your Champion:

●      Teacher/Staff Appreciation Week (May 5-9, 2025)

●      Spring Fling (May 16, 2025)

If you are interested in learning more, please reach out to [email protected].

PTA Website!

Check out our new PTA website if you haven’t done so already. For those that need it, the school code is: KB63B8. It is designed to make staying up-to-date with latest events and being involved easier than ever! Our site features a user-friendly interface with everything you need most in one place: 

●      Event Calendar: Sync PTA events and FCPS holidays directly to your personal calendar so you never miss out.

●      Volunteer Sign-Ups: Easily find and sign up for volunteer opportunities that fit your schedule.

●      Student Directory (coming soon): Connect with other families and classmates through our secure online student directory in which only paid members have access, making it easy to arrange playdates, birthday party invitations, study groups, or just stay in touch.

●      Announcements: Stay updated with the latest news and important information from the PTA.

Account creation is required to access full features. Visit our new website today (https://hvpta.ptboard.com/) and explore how we’re making it simpler for families to engage and support our school community! 

If you are interested in learning more, please reach out to [email protected].

Official Hunt Valley PTA Facebook Group

Join the Hunt Valley PTA Facebook Group to stay updated on the latest events, volunteer opportunities, important announcements, and shoutouts celebrating amazing moments. Our group is a space for parents, teachers, and staff to connect, collaborate, and support each other in creating the best learning environment for our students. Follow us for real-time updates, tips, and ways to get involved in making our school community even better! 

Hunt Valley Elementary Parents Facebook Group

You are invited to join the unofficial Facebook group for the Hunt Valley community, Hunt Valley Elementary Parents. Please note that anyone who requests to join, including someone added by an existing group member, must answer the membership questions and check the box indicating agreement to abide by the group rules. If your membership has not been approved, this is likely why; check your Facebook messages (you may have to dig around for the section for messages from non-friends) for assistance from an admin. Please note that this group is not sponsored by the school or the PTA!

PTA Loves Our Local Business Sponsors!

The PTA is proud to announce that we have received a new sponsor. They want to support the PTA, Hunt Valley Elementary, and the Hunt Valley Community. Our newest sponsors include:

●      Peraspori - If you love and appreciate real, pure cold pressed extra virgin olive oil and olives, shop at Peraspori that get it shipped directly from Greece to Virginia. They are also sold in a local shop in Bon Air, VA. If you are passing by, stop by and support.

●      Brian Huber Realtor, Samson Properties - Contact Brian Huber if you are in the market to buy or sell a home. He is an experienced Realtor and Certified Negotiation Expert (CNE). His average days on the market is 9 days and for 98% of list price.

Thank you for your continued support!

●      Arceli Brown from State Farm - Contact Arceli Brown for your home, auto or any insurance needs.

●      Waverly Der from Elite M.A. Burke - Contact Waverly Der, the Program Director, if you’re interested in having your kids learn lasting life skills through martial arts. They teach self-confidence, respect & manners, goal-setting skills, self-defense skills, strength & fitness. Also check out their afterschool program at their facility.

●      Dianna Carr from Be Well Health Coaching - Contact Dianna Carr if you are interested in having a health coach, personal trainer, learn about nutrition and strategies to become a better, healthier version of you.

For more information on each of the sponsors, you can find their marketing material on the PTA Website at https://hvpta.ptboard.com/school/cm?mid=6805.

Help us find more business sponsors to support the PTA

As a Hunt Valley PTA Sponsor, for only $250, the contribution will directly benefit our students and school community, helping us continue to provide enriching experiences for everyone. The business will receive the following benefits:

●      Recognition in Our Weekly Newsletter

●      Acknowledgment at Monthly PTA Meetings

●      Visibility and Invitation to All PTA Sponsored Community Events

●      Tax Deduction

Our goal is to receive 10 corporate sponsorships this year. Help us achieve our goal! If you are interested in finding sponsors or becoming a sponsor and supporting the Hunt Valley PTA, please contact us at [email protected]  

For more info, visit the Hunt Valley Elementary School PTA website

If you have comments or suggestions for this newsletter, email [email protected]

7107 Sydenstricker Rd., Springfield, VA 22152  |  Phone: 703.913.8800

Attendance: 703.913.8820 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

A Message from our Administrators

Dear Hunt Valley Community,

The weather has given us a variety of temperatures this week! Our students (and staff) were grateful to back outside for recess! The temperatures will be little colder next week so please make sure that students come to school with layers so that they will be comfortable inside and outside.

Our next 3-hour early release is Monday, February 10th. All families received communication this week about what time their student(s) will be dismissed on Monday. If you have any questions, please call the main office.

We are excited for our Science Fair tonight! We hope that you come by to see the awesome experiments that our students have worked on over the last few months. The Science is in the gym from 6:00-7:30.

Please see below for information about:

• Black History Month
• Kindness and Heart Health Spirit Week
• Free Books for All
• Ramadan
• Kindergarten Orientation
• Irving Musical Theatre Performance
• Dual Language Immersion Lottery
• Science, Technology and Arts Magnet Schools
• Immunizations
• Health Reminders
• Updating Emergency Contacts
• Yearbook Ordering Information
• Community Boundary Review Meetings

We hope that everyone has a wonderful weekend! 

Sincerely,

Keieownna Hightower, Principal

Chrissy Gibbs, Assistant Principal

Eric Kopacz, Assistant Principal

Mark Your Calendar

February 7--Science Fair

February 10--3-hour Early Release

February 17--President's Day Holiday

February 28--Spelling Bee

  Black History Month Kick-Off Celebration 

FCPS’ Chief Equity Office invites the community to an Inaugural Black History Month Kickoff Celebration on Wednesday, February 19, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at Carter G. Woodson High School.   

The event begins with a light reception followed by a formal program, From the Threads of Our Past to the Fabric of Our Future. The program will honor the enduring contributions of Black history and culture while envisioning a future rooted in equity and excellence. It will include inspiring performances, personal stories, reflections, and opportunities to connect and celebrate. The event is open to the entire community. 

For more information, contact Nina Thomas, senior manager for Professional Learning and Cultural Responsiveness.

 

Febraury 28- March 29 - Ramadan

Ramadan begins at sundown on Friday, February 28. This day is an evening-only observance day. There is school on these days, but certain activities that cannot be made up can not take place after school. See the complete school year calendar.

Throughout the year, as we celebrate and recognize various cultural holidays and observances, families are encouraged to contact their child’s school regarding accommodations, including but not limited to those around lunch, prayer/meditation and silent reflection spaces and times, and instruction. 

Ramadan is the most sacred month of the year, a time for spiritual discipline for Muslims, who believe it was during this month that God revealed the first verses of the Quran to Mohammed. Read more about Ramadan in National Geographic Kids. 

For students who will be fasting and would like an alternate location during their lunch, one will be provided where they can engage socially with their peers. If your child will be fasting during this time, please reach out to your child's teacher so we can plan accordingly.

Washington Irving Musical Theatre Performance - Frozen, Jr. 

Tickets are available to purchase here.

🗺️ Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration

Countywide lottery registration for the Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program for first graders in the 2025-26 school year is open through Thursday, February 13, at 4 p.m. Current pre-K students may apply for the kindergarten immersion program through Thursday, March 6, at 4 p.m.  

Dual Language Immersion is available in French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. 

Interested parents/caregivers may attend an informational meeting at the school site. Visit the Dual Language Immersion Program registration page for a list of meetings by language offered. 

Get more details on the DLI Program webpage.

🧲 Learn About Science, Technology, and Arts Magnet Schools

Three FCPS elementary magnet schools — Hunters Woods, Bailey’s Primary, and Bailey’s Upper — provide enhanced learning programs in science, technology, and performing arts. 

Registration for the 2025-26 elementary magnet lottery is open Tuesday, March 4, through Friday, April 4. Learn more about the programs on the Elementary Magnet Schools page and information on the magnet lottery on our Registration page.

Health Reminders ❤️‍🩹

Flu season is here, and we all want to keep our students healthy and safe. Please remind your child to practice good hygiene, such as washing their hands frequently and covering their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.

If your child is feeling unwell, especially with flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, or body aches, we ask that you keep them at home to rest and recover and be fever free for 24 hours without medication, before returning to school. This helps prevent the spread of illness to others.

During the winter months students have experienced dry skin and/or chapped lips. Students may bring to school and carry non-prescription lotion and chap stick for these symptoms. 

Thank you for your support in keeping our school community healthy. If you have any questions or need additional information, please feel free to reach out. 

Make Sure Your Children Are Up-to-Date on Immunizations

Please make sure your child has all of their necessary immunizations. Remember, all students are required to be immunized against certain diseases to attend school in Virginia. This is an important part of keeping children healthy!

Starting Monday, May 19, students who have not provided proof of immunization may not be allowed to attend school. You can check your child’s immunization status and submit updated immunization information by accessing SIS ParentVUE. 

Please check with your healthcare provider to make sure your child is up to date on required immunizations for the 2024-25 school year. If your child needs an immunization, make an appointment with your healthcare provider, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or view other Immunization Resources. Be wise and immunize!

Returning to In-Person Work?

If you are no longer telecommuting, please make sure your emergency contact information is updated. You can update via ParentVue. 

Community Boundary Review Meetings

📍 Comprehensive Boundary Review Update

The Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee held its second meeting on December 16 at Gatehouse Administration Center. View key takeaways from that meeting and access the meeting agenda, slides, and other materials that committee members received.  If you did not get a chance to attend an in-person Community Boundary Review Meeting, please consider participating in a virtual meeting:

• Monday, February 10, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

Language interpretation will be available. 

All virtual meetings will follow the same format as the in-person meetings that were recently held, and the same information will be shared. Please stay tuned for details on how to register. Visit FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage to learn more. Sign up for FCPS’ School Boundary Review newsletter as well.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C094DA5AF2EA6FECF8-51211530-cafeteria

 

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C094DA5AF2EA6FECF8-51771041-lunch

7107 Sydenstricker Rd., Springfield, VA 22152  |  Phone: 703.913.8800

Attendance: 703.913.8820 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

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

Hunt Valley PTA News You Choose

We communicate with PTA members and the entire Hunt Valley community about events sponsored by the Hunt Valley Elementary Parent-Teacher Association. If you do not wish to receive PTA emails, please unsubscribe to PTA "News You Choose" using the link at the bottom of this bulletin. 

Hunt Valley ES News You Choose official school communication is sent separately on Fridays with information from HVES Administration. 

                            Click here to get to the Hunt Valley website.

  PTA Important Dates

Friday, February 7, 2025

Science Fair, School Gym, 6:00pm - 7:30pm

Friday, February 28, 2025

Spelling Bee, School Cafeteria, 6:00pm - 7:30pm

Tuesday, March, 11, 2025

March Virtual PTA Meeting, 7:00pm - 8:00pm

Join us here: https://meet.google.com/gdf-rhfg-som

Thursday, March 13, 2025

Wellness Fair (school led), School, 6:00pm - 7:30pm

EVERY MONDAY

Spirit Night @ Eat Pizza (mention or type “Hunt Valley” in comment box) all day 

EVERY TUESDAY

Spirit Night @ Papa Johns (code HVES4010) all day

 

A Message from the PTA President

Dear Hunt Valley Families,

Congratulations to Connor Huber who placed 1st for Reflections Literature in the Accessible Arts Competition at the Fairfax County Level. He will be advancing to States! 

Our first annual Science Fair is THIS Friday!  Come out to the gym at 6PM and support the students presenting their projects! There will be live demonstrations, and a scavenger hunt to find items found in the projects. We have 40+ projects which is a great turnout! Thank you to all that have signed up. Volunteers are needed. Here is the sign up if you’re interested: Volunteer Sign Up.

Last Thursday, January 30, the school hosted an incredible Multi-Cultural Night filled with delicious food and amazing talent show performances! A huge thank you to Mrs. Garretson, the SCA sponsor, her SCA Officers, and SCA Reps for their hard work in planning and organizing this fantastic event. The PTA proudly showcased the Reflections Artwork, creating a beautiful display, complemented by a special performance of “The Crack in Everything” by Robin Vivian.

 

Lastly, please review the open roles below that we need to fill for next year’s PTA. We must fill the President and Treasurer role to have a PTA. The chair positions must be filled if we are to continue to hold the same great events next year.  Please reach out if you're able to help support your PTA. If you were the chair this year and would like to continue next year, please let us know so we can mark that position as filled.

If you need anything, please reach out to [email protected] or [email protected].

Sincerely,

Iris Stoyanov

Hunt Valley PTA President

New Date for Multicultural Night with Special PTA Add-Ons Hunt Valley First Annual Science Fair!

The Science Fair registration has closed and we have 30+ projects! It was open to all students (K-6). It is a fun way to explore topics in science, math, and engineering. It will be held at Hunt Valley Gym on Friday, February 7 from 6PM - 7:30PM. Everyone is invited to attend. There will be live demonstrations, and a scavenger hunt for items found in the projects.

If you would like to be a parent volunteer, please sign up: Volunteer Sign Up

 

Hunt Valley 2nd Annual Scripps Spelling Bee

The 2025 Hunt Valley Scripps Spelling Bee was open to all students (K-6) and will be held at Hunt Valley Cafeteria on Friday, February 28, 2025, 6:00–8:00 p.m.

Registration for the Hunt Valley Bee is now closed.

We have 46 registered students competing!

Questions: Email [email protected]

2025-2026 Board and Chair Positions

 

2025-2026 PTA Board

• President: Collaborate with the board to set PTA goals aligned with school needs, lead meetings, oversee the board & committees, partner with the school admin, teachers, and staff, work with the Treasurer to manage funds transparently, and support committee event planning and program management
• Treasurer: Managing the PTA's finances, including collecting and depositing income, maintaining accurate financial records, creating and monitoring the budget, paying bills, preparing financial reports, and ensuring proper accounting procedures are followed.

Volunteers Needed for the following events

• Teacher Appreciation Week (May 5 - 9) | Email Jillian at [email protected]
• Spring Fling Coordinator (May 9) | Email Iris at [email protected]

The chair positions must be filled if we are to continue to hold the same great events next year.  Please reach out if you're able to help support your PTA. If you were the chair this year and would like to continue next year, please let us know so we can mark that position as filled. We do not want to assume that you will continue next year :).

HVES Book Swap Coming Soon!

When: Tuesday, March 4, 2025

What: Each student is invited to bring in school-aged books in good condition they want to donate and they will be able to take a “new” book or two home the following week

How: Classrooms will sign-up and walkthrough the tables during the school day

Collection Dates: February 24 - 28. Bins will be placed outside the school doors and there will be bins inside the school lobby for students to drop off

Need More of: Chapter books, grades 4 -6 level reading

Not Accepting: Textbooks, religious books, cookbooks, encyclopedias, dictionaries, activity books

Volunteers Needed: Sort books and support day of event. Sign-up coming soon 

Questions: Kate Johnson at [email protected]

HVES PTA’s Amazon Affiliate Link

EARNINGS TO DATE: $19.99

Support Hunt Valley PTA with Your Amazon Shopping! Use the PTA’s Affiliate Link for your Amazon purchases: https://amzn.to/4dpxoJX

Every purchase you make through our link sends a small commission our way, helping us fund fun events, educational programs, and so much more for our amazing kids. 🎉🎓

It’s simple:

    1.    Click on our Amazon Affiliate Link (https://amzn.to/4dpxoJX)

    2.    Shop as you normally would.

    3.    Feel great knowing you’re contributing to a better school experience for all our students! 😃

 Thank you for your support and happy shopping! Let’s make every purchase count! 🏫💛

Join the PTA!

PTA memberships are available for purchase in our online store only for $10! A digital PTA member/student directory is included in the membership price. Teachers and Staff get a $5 discount off in-person spirit wear purchases.

Remember, your PTA membership goes to support students and staff in many ways! Email [email protected] with questions.

School Directory Information: COMING SOON!

General Information & Communication Volunteer Opportunities

We depend on our parent volunteers!

Please use the QR code below or reach out to our PTA Volunteer Coordinator, Sarah Tinsley, at [email protected] to join the mailing list for volunteers. 

 https://forms.gle/ifKFuqzzrwqQbPN17

The following positions are still open for the 2024-2025 school year. You do not have to do it alone. Grab a friend and be a powerful team with the help of a PTA Board Member as your Champion:

●      Teacher/Staff Appreciation Week (May 5-9, 2025)

●      Spring Fling (May 16, 2025)

If you are interested in learning more, please reach out to [email protected].

PTA Website!

Check out our new PTA website if you haven’t done so already. For those that need it, the school code is: KB63B8. It is designed to make staying up-to-date with latest events and being involved easier than ever! Our site features a user-friendly interface with everything you need most in one place: 

●      Event Calendar: Sync PTA events and FCPS holidays directly to your personal calendar so you never miss out.

●      Volunteer Sign-Ups: Easily find and sign up for volunteer opportunities that fit your schedule.

●      Student Directory (coming soon): Connect with other families and classmates through our secure online student directory in which only paid members have access, making it easy to arrange playdates, birthday party invitations, study groups, or just stay in touch.

●      Announcements: Stay updated with the latest news and important information from the PTA.

Account creation is required to access full features. Visit our new website today (https://hvpta.ptboard.com/) and explore how we’re making it simpler for families to engage and support our school community! 

If you are interested in learning more, please reach out to [email protected].

Official Hunt Valley PTA Facebook Group

Join the Hunt Valley PTA Facebook Group to stay updated on the latest events, volunteer opportunities, important announcements, and shoutouts celebrating amazing moments. Our group is a space for parents, teachers, and staff to connect, collaborate, and support each other in creating the best learning environment for our students. Follow us for real-time updates, tips, and ways to get involved in making our school community even better! 

Hunt Valley Elementary Parents Facebook Group

You are invited to join the unofficial Facebook group for the Hunt Valley community, Hunt Valley Elementary Parents. Please note that anyone who requests to join, including someone added by an existing group member, must answer the membership questions and check the box indicating agreement to abide by the group rules. If your membership has not been approved, this is likely why; check your Facebook messages (you may have to dig around for the section for messages from non-friends) for assistance from an admin. Please note that this group is not sponsored by the school or the PTA!

PTA Loves Our Local Business Sponsors!

The PTA is proud to announce that we have received a new sponsor. They want to support the PTA, Hunt Valley Elementary, and the Hunt Valley Community. Our newest sponsors include:

●      Peraspori - If you love and appreciate real, pure cold pressed extra virgin olive oil and olives, shop at Peraspori that get it shipped directly from Greece to Virginia. They are also sold in a local shop in Bon Air, VA. If you are passing by, stop by and support.

●      Brian Huber Realtor, Samson Properties - Contact Brian Huber if you are in the market to buy or sell a home. He is an experienced Realtor and Certified Negotiation Expert (CNE). His average days on the market is 9 days and for 98% of list price.

Thank you for your continued support!

●      Arceli Brown from State Farm - Contact Arceli Brown for your home, auto or any insurance needs.

●      Waverly Der from Elite M.A. Burke - Contact Waverly Der, the Program Director, if you’re interested in having your kids learn lasting life skills through martial arts. They teach self-confidence, respect & manners, goal-setting skills, self-defense skills, strength & fitness. Also check out their afterschool program at their facility.

●      Dianna Carr from Be Well Health Coaching - Contact Dianna Carr if you are interested in having a health coach, personal trainer, learn about nutrition and strategies to become a better, healthier version of you.

For more information on each of the sponsors, you can find their marketing material on the PTA Website at https://hvpta.ptboard.com/school/cm?mid=6805.

Help us find more business sponsors to support the PTA

As a Hunt Valley PTA Sponsor, for only $250, the contribution will directly benefit our students and school community, helping us continue to provide enriching experiences for everyone. The business will receive the following benefits:

●      Recognition in Our Weekly Newsletter

●      Acknowledgment at Monthly PTA Meetings

●      Visibility and Invitation to All PTA Sponsored Community Events

●      Tax Deduction

Our goal is to receive 10 corporate sponsorships this year. Help us achieve our goal! If you are interested in finding sponsors or becoming a sponsor and supporting the Hunt Valley PTA, please contact us at [email protected]  

For more info, visit the Hunt Valley Elementary School PTA website

If you have comments or suggestions for this newsletter, email [email protected]

7107 Sydenstricker Rd., Springfield, VA 22152  |  Phone: 703.913.8800

Attendance: 703.913.8820 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

A Message from our Administrators

Dear Hunt Valley Community,

Thank you to everyone who came out to our Multicultural Night last night! It was wonderful to see so many families attend to share about their heritage and to learn from each other! The food was absolutely delicious :) This year, there was a parade of nations where students and families wore traditional outfits and carried flags. There was also a talent show portion where several students performed a dance, song, played an instrument or modeled their outfit. Ms. Robin Rundquist delivered a fabulous story-telling performance for the students and families! We appreciate all the hard work that our SCA put into planning and executing this event as well as the support of our PTA.  A huge thank you to our PTA sponsor, Ms. Garretson and all our staff members that attended the event. 

Next Friday, February 7th is our first annual Science Fair sponsored by our PTA. We are looking forward to seeing all of the projects that our students have completed!

Monday, February 10th is our next 3-hour early release. Families will receive an eNotify confirming their selection for student dismissal. If there are any changes to when students will be dismissed or how they will get home, please fill out the google form that will be included in the email. 

Please see below for information about:

• National School Counseling Week
• Free Books for All
• Irving Musical Theatre Performance
• Health Reminders
• Updating Emergency Contacts
• Yearbook Ordering Information
• Community Boundary Review Meetings

We hope that everyone has a wonderful weekend! 

Sincerely,

Keieownna Hightower, Principal

Chrissy Gibbs, Assistant Principal

Eric Kopacz, Assistant Principal

Mark Your Calendar

February 7--Science Fair

February 10--3-hour Early Release

February 17--President's Day Holiday

February 28--Spelling Bee

National School Counseling Week

February 3-7 is National School Counseling Week, and highlights the tremendous impact school counselors have in helping students achieve academic success and planning for a career.School counselors work with students in a variety of different capacities, whether it is through classroom lessons, group sessions, or individual counseling. Learn more about the role of school counselors in FCPS.

Washington Irving Musical Theatre Performance - Frozen, Jr. 

Tickets are available to purchase here.

Health Reminders ❤️‍🩹

Flu season is here, and we all want to keep our students healthy and safe. Please remind your child to practice good hygiene, such as washing their hands frequently and covering their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.

If your child is feeling unwell, especially with flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, or body aches, we ask that you to keep them at home to rest and recover and be fever free for 24 hours without medication, before returning to school. This helps prevent the spread of illness to others.

Thank you for your support in keeping our school community healthy. If you have any questions or need additional information, please feel free to reach out.

During the winter months students have experience dry skin and/or chapped lips.  Students may bring to school and carry non-prescription lotion and chapped stick for these symptoms.  

Returning to In-Person Work?

If you are no longer telecommuting, please make sure your emergency contact information is updated. You can update via ParentVue. 

Community Boundary Review Meetings

📍 Comprehensive Boundary Review Update

The Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee held its second meeting on December 16 at Gatehouse Administration Center. View key takeaways from that meeting and access the meeting agenda, slides, and other materials that committee members received.  If you did not get a chance to attend an in-person Community Boundary Review Meeting, please consider participating in a virtual meeting:

• Monday, February 10, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

Language interpretation will be available. 

All virtual meetings will follow the same format as the in-person meetings that were recently held, and the same information will be shared. Please stay tuned for details on how to register. Visit FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage to learn more. Sign up for FCPS’ School Boundary Review newsletter as well.

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7107 Sydenstricker Rd., Springfield, VA 22152  |  Phone: 703.913.8800

Attendance: 703.913.8820 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

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Join us TONIGHT for Multicultural Night!!! Tomorrow is PJ Day! Please wear your pajamas tomorrow--NO STUFFIES or SLIPPERS.

7107 Sydenstricker Rd., Springfield, VA 22152  |  Phone: 703.913.8800

Attendance: 703.913.8820 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

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Hunt Valley PTA News You Choose

We communicate with PTA members and the entire Hunt Valley community about events sponsored by the Hunt Valley Elementary Parent-Teacher Association. If you do not wish to receive PTA emails, please unsubscribe to PTA "News You Choose" using the link at the bottom of this bulletin. 

Hunt Valley ES News You Choose official school communication is sent separately on Fridays with information from HVES Administration. 

                            Click here to get to the Hunt Valley website.

 

Thursday, Multicultural Night (school led) | January 30, 2025 | 6pm - 8pm

Reflections Artwork Display and Special Performance by Robin Rundquist - Vivian

Tuesday, February 4, 2025

Spirit Night @ Panera Bread (West Springfield Rolling Rd) (code FUND4U) 4pm - 8pm

Friday, February 7, 2025

Science Fair, School Gym, 6:00pm - 7:30pm

Friday, February 28, 2025

Spelling Bee, School Cafeteria, 6:00pm - 7:30pm

Thursday, March 13, 2025

Wellness Fair (school led), School, 6:00pm - 7:30pm

EVERY MONDAY

Spirit Night @ Eat Pizza (mention or type “Hunt Valley” in comment box) all day

EVERY TUESDAY

Spirit Night @ Papa Johns (code HVES4010) all day

A Message from the PTA President

Dear Hunt Valley Families,

Today is the end of the 2nd Quarter! We’re halfway through the school year! This Thursday, January 30, the school has planned an amazing Multicultural Night from 6-8pm. In addition, the artwork from the PTA’s Reflections Program will be displayed in the gym and there will be a performance by a professional storyteller Robin Vivian at 7:30pm. 

The first annual Science Fair will take place next week February 7 during school hours, with a parent’s night open to families that evening from 6PM - 7:30PM. Come out and support the students presenting their projects. We have 45 projects which is a great turnout! Thank you to all that have signed up. Volunteers are needed. Here is the sign up if you’re interested: Volunteer Sign Up.

We currently have 2 judges for the Spelling Bee and we need 3! We are in need of one more judge for the bee happening on February 28, 2025 at 6pm. Please email our Spelling Bee Coordinator, Casey Trull, at [email protected], if you’re able to support this event.

We've now compiled a full list of positions for the PTA that we'll need to fill for the 2025–2026 school year. We must fill the President and Treasurer role to have a PTA. The chair positions must be filled if we are to continue to hold the same great events next year.  Please reach out if you're able to help support your PTA. If you were the chair this year and would like to continue next year, please let us know so we can mark that position as filled. 

If you need anything, please reach out to [email protected] or [email protected]. 

Sincerely,

Iris Stoyanov

Hunt Valley PTA President ​​

New Date for Multicultural Night with Special PTA Add-Ons Hunt Valley First Annual Science Fair!

If you would like to volunteer, please sign up: Volunteer Sign Up

LAST WEEK TO REGISTER: Hunt Valley 2nd Annual Scripps Spelling Bee

Register your child for the Scripps National Spelling Bee at Hunt Valley! The 2025 Hunt Valley Scripps Spelling Bee is open to all Kindergarten - Grade 6 students and will be held at Hunt Valley Cafeteria on Friday, February 28, 2025, 6:00–8:00 p.m. All interested students must register in advance for the Bee and will receive a word study list. The winner will advance to the Fairfax County Spelling Bee.

Register here: https://forms.gle/nVwaKyHUjTukgpkf9          

Please encourage people to enroll! Last year we had roughly 30 participants.

Have 29 students registered. Can we exceed last year’s number? Final day to register is Jan 31, 2025.

Questions: Email [email protected]

Hunt Valley’s First Garden Club!

Sponsored by Mrs. Rafle (Kindergarten teacher). She was spotlighted at the December PTA meeting and the slides can be found on the PTA website (hvpta.ptboard.com/activity). If your child (Grade 3 - 6) is interested in joining the Garden Club, submit the registration form by January 31, 2025. The forms will also be in the take-home folders.

Volunteers Needed for the following events

• Teacher Appreciation Week (May 5 - 9) | Email Jillian at [email protected]
• Spring Fling Coordinator (May 9) | Email Iris at [email protected]

The chair positions must be filled if we are to continue to hold the same great events next year.  Please reach out if you're able to help support your PTA. If you were the chair this year and would like to continue next year, please let us know so we can mark that position as filled. We do not want to assume that you will continue next year :).

HVES Book Swap Coming Soon!

When: Tuesday, March 4, 2025

What: Each student is invited to bring in school-aged books in good condition they want to donate and they will be able to take a “new” book or two home the following week

How: Classrooms will sign-up and walkthrough the tables during the school day

Collection Dates: February 24 - 28. Bins will be placed outside the school doors and there will be bins inside the school lobby for students to drop off

Need More of: Chapter books, grades 4 -6 level reading

Not Accepting: Textbooks, religious books, cookbooks, encyclopedias, dictionaries, activity books

Volunteers Needed: Sort books and support day of event. Sign-up coming soon 

Questions: Kate Johnson at [email protected]

HVES PTA’s Amazon Affiliate Link

EARNINGS TO DATE: $19.99

Support Hunt Valley PTA with Your Amazon Shopping! Use the PTA’s Affiliate Link for your Amazon purchases: https://amzn.to/4dpxoJX

Every purchase you make through our link sends a small commission our way, helping us fund fun events, educational programs, and so much more for our amazing kids. 🎉🎓

It’s simple:

    1.    Click on our Amazon Affiliate Link (https://amzn.to/4dpxoJX)

    2.    Shop as you normally would.

    3.    Feel great knowing you’re contributing to a better school experience for all our students! 😃

 Thank you for your support and happy shopping! Let’s make every purchase count! 🏫💛

Join the PTA!

PTA memberships are available for purchase in our online store only for $10! A digital PTA member/student directory is included in the membership price. Teachers and Staff get a $5 discount off in-person spirit wear purchases.

Remember, your PTA membership goes to support students and staff in many ways! Email [email protected] with questions.

School Directory Information: COMING SOON!

General Information & Communication Volunteer Opportunities

We depend on our parent volunteers!

Please use the QR code below or reach out to our PTA Volunteer Coordinator, Sarah Tinsley, at [email protected] to join the mailing list for volunteers. 

 https://forms.gle/ifKFuqzzrwqQbPN17

The following positions are still open for the 2024-2025 school year. You do not have to do it alone. Grab a friend and be a powerful team with the help of a PTA Board Member as your Champion:

●      Teacher/Staff Appreciation Week (May 5-9, 2025)

●      Spring Fling (May 16, 2025)

If you are interested in learning more, please reach out to [email protected].

PTA Website!

Check out our new PTA website if you haven’t done so already. For those that need it, the school code is: KB63B8. It is designed to make staying up-to-date with latest events and being involved easier than ever! Our site features a user-friendly interface with everything you need most in one place: 

●      Event Calendar: Sync PTA events and FCPS holidays directly to your personal calendar so you never miss out.

●      Volunteer Sign-Ups: Easily find and sign up for volunteer opportunities that fit your schedule.

●      Student Directory (coming soon): Connect with other families and classmates through our secure online student directory in which only paid members have access, making it easy to arrange playdates, birthday party invitations, study groups, or just stay in touch.

●      Announcements: Stay updated with the latest news and important information from the PTA.

Account creation is required to access full features. Visit our new website today (https://hvpta.ptboard.com/) and explore how we’re making it simpler for families to engage and support our school community! 

If you are interested in learning more, please reach out to [email protected].

Official Hunt Valley PTA Facebook Group

Join the Hunt Valley PTA Facebook Group to stay updated on the latest events, volunteer opportunities, important announcements, and shoutouts celebrating amazing moments. Our group is a space for parents, teachers, and staff to connect, collaborate, and support each other in creating the best learning environment for our students. Follow us for real-time updates, tips, and ways to get involved in making our school community even better! 

Hunt Valley Elementary Parents Facebook Group

You are invited to join the unofficial Facebook group for the Hunt Valley community, Hunt Valley Elementary Parents. Please note that anyone who requests to join, including someone added by an existing group member, must answer the membership questions and check the box indicating agreement to abide by the group rules. If your membership has not been approved, this is likely why; check your Facebook messages (you may have to dig around for the section for messages from non-friends) for assistance from an admin. Please note that this group is not sponsored by the school or the PTA!

PTA Loves Our Local Business Sponsors!

The PTA is proud to announce that we have received a new sponsor. They want to support the PTA, Hunt Valley Elementary, and the Hunt Valley Community. Our newest sponsors include:

●      Peraspori - If you love and appreciate real, pure cold pressed extra virgin olive oil and olives, shop at Peraspori that get it shipped directly from Greece to Virginia. They are also sold in a local shop in Bon Air, VA. If you are passing by, stop by and support.

●      Brian Huber Realtor, Samson Properties - Contact Brian Huber if you are in the market to buy or sell a home. He is an experienced Realtor and Certified Negotiation Expert (CNE). His average days on the market is 9 days and for 98% of list price.

Thank you for your continued support!

●      Arceli Brown from State Farm - Contact Arceli Brown for your home, auto or any insurance needs.

●      Waverly Der from Elite M.A. Burke - Contact Waverly Der, the Program Director, if you’re interested in having your kids learn lasting life skills through martial arts. They teach self-confidence, respect & manners, goal-setting skills, self-defense skills, strength & fitness. Also check out their afterschool program at their facility.

●      Dianna Carr from Be Well Health Coaching - Contact Dianna Carr if you are interested in having a health coach, personal trainer, learn about nutrition and strategies to become a better, healthier version of you.

For more information on each of the sponsors, you can find their marketing material on the PTA Website at https://hvpta.ptboard.com/school/cm?mid=6805.

Help us find more business sponsors to support the PTA

As a Hunt Valley PTA Sponsor, for only $250, the contribution will directly benefit our students and school community, helping us continue to provide enriching experiences for everyone. The business will receive the following benefits:

●      Recognition in Our Weekly Newsletter

●      Acknowledgment at Monthly PTA Meetings

●      Visibility and Invitation to All PTA Sponsored Community Events

●      Tax Deduction

Our goal is to receive 10 corporate sponsorships this year. Help us achieve our goal! If you are interested in finding sponsors or becoming a sponsor and supporting the Hunt Valley PTA, please contact us at [email protected]  

For more info, visit the Hunt Valley Elementary School PTA website

If you have comments or suggestions for this newsletter, email [email protected]

7107 Sydenstricker Rd., Springfield, VA 22152  |  Phone: 703.913.8800

Attendance: 703.913.8820 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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A Message from our Administrators

Dear Hunt Valley Community,

We experienced some very cold weather this week which made arrival and dismissal an adventure! Thank you to everyone for your help and flexibility during this time to keep all our students safe! During these winter months, please make sure that students are dressing in layers and wearing coats, gloves, hats, etc. so they are warm. If your child is experiencing dry hands or lips during this time, they are welcome to bring in a small bottle of hand cream or lip balm to use at school. 

Quarter 2 ends on Tuesday and this is a full day of school. Students are off on Wednesday, January 29th. They will return on Thursday, January 30th for the start of the 3rd quarter.

We are excited for our Multicultural Night next Thursday, January 30th. This is a fabulous event that gives our community an opportunity to come together to share about our cultures and hertitiage.  We hope to see everyone there!

Please see below for information about:

• Multicultural Night Information
• Keep Your Child Warm during Winter
• Yearbook Ordering Information
• Virginia’s Student Assessment Summary for Families
• Community Boundary Review Meetings
• West Springfield Little League registration

We hope that everyone has a wonderful weekend! 

Sincerely,

Keieownna Hightower, Principal

Chrissy Gibbs, Assistant Principal

Eric Kopacz, Assistant Principal

 

Mark Your Calendar

January 28--End of 2nd quarter

January 29--Teacher Workday--NO SCHOOL

January 30--Multicultural Night 6:00-8:00

February 10--3-hour Early Release

🧥 Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

Winter weather is here! As a reminder, please make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy time outdoors. We monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories that may prevent children from being outside for activities like recess or physical education.

Visit Fairfax County’s website for Winter Weather/Extreme Cold safety tips. 

If you need assistance getting cold-weather clothing for your family, please contact our family liaison, Cynthia Youssef at [email protected]. You may also contact Fairfax County Coordinated Services Planning (CSP) at 703-222-0880. Their multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health care. 

📈 Virginia’s Student Assessment Summary for Families

This month, families of students who took any Standards of Learning (SOL) test between school years 2015-16 and 2023-24 will receive a Student Assessment Summary Report. The report shows a student’s state percentile ranking for each test. This allows families to see how their child ranked compared to all Virginia students who took the same test that year. 

Reports are available now in SIS ParentVUE Documents. We will distribute them to students whose families do not have ParentVUE access. Learn how to access ParentVUE. 

The report is intended to help families reflect on how their child performed across all tested subjects over the years. Our staff members are committed to working with families to help every student reach their highest potential. Learn more about student assessments in FCPS.

Community Boundary Review Meetings

📍 Comprehensive Boundary Review Update

The Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee held its second meeting on December 16 at Gatehouse Administration Center. View key takeaways from that meeting and access the meeting agenda, slides, and other materials that committee members received.  If you did not get a chance to attend an in-person Community Boundary Review Meeting, please consider participating in a virtual meeting:

• Saturday, January 25, 2025, 9:30-11 a.m. 

• Monday, January 27, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

• Tuesday, January 28, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

• Monday, February 10, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

Language interpretation will be available. 

All virtual meetings will follow the same format as the in-person meetings that were recently held, and the same information will be shared. Please stay tuned for details on how to register. Visit FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage to learn more. Sign up for FCPS’ School Boundary Review newsletter as well.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C094DA5AF2EA6FECF8-51211530-cafeteria

 

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C094DA5AF2EA6FECF8-51771041-lunch

7107 Sydenstricker Rd., Springfield, VA 22152  |  Phone: 703.913.8800

Attendance: 703.913.8820 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

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A Message from our Administrators

Dear Hunt Valley Community,

We hope that everyone enjoyed their Winter Break and the extra days off due to the snow that we received. It was so nice to be back at school for a full week with our students!

We appreciate everyone's flexibility with the rescheduling of our Multicultural Night. Postponing this event to January 30th will give our SCA the needed time to plan and organize. We hope to see everyone there!

Please see below for information about:

• Club and Candid Pictures
• Multicultural Night Information
• Keep Your Child Warm during Winter
• Yearbook Ordering Information
• Community Boundary Review Meetings
• West Springfield Little League registration

We hope that everyone has a wonderful weekend! 

Sincerely,

Keieownna Hightower, Principal

Chrissy Gibbs, Assistant Principal

Eric Kopacz, Assistant Principal

Mark Your Calendar

January 20--Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday/Inauguration Day--NO SCHOOL/BUILDING CLOSED

January 21--Club and Candid Pictures

January 28--End of 2nd quarter

January 29--Teacher Workday--NO SCHOOL

January 30--Multicultural Night 6:00-8:00

February 10--3-hour Early Release

Club and Candid Pictures are Tuesday, January 21st! 🧥 Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

Winter weather is here! As a reminder, please make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy time outdoors. We monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories that may prevent children from being outside for activities like recess or physical education.

Visit Fairfax County’s website for Winter Weather/Extreme Cold safety tips. 

If you need assistance getting cold-weather clothing for your family, please contact our family liaison, Cynthia Youssef at [email protected]. You may also contact Fairfax County Coordinated Services Planning (CSP) at 703-222-0880. Their multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health care. 

Community Boundary Review Meetings

📍 Comprehensive Boundary Review Update

The Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee held its second meeting on December 16 at Gatehouse Administration Center. View key takeaways from that meeting and access the meeting agenda, slides, and other materials that committee members received.  If you did not get a chance to attend an in-person Community Boundary Review Meeting, please consider participating in a virtual meeting:

• Saturday, January 25, 2025, 9:30-11 a.m. 

• Monday, January 27, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

• Tuesday, January 28, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

• Monday, February 10, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

Language interpretation will be available. 

All virtual meetings will follow the same format as the in-person meetings that were recently held, and the same information will be shared. Please stay tuned for details on how to register. Visit FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage to learn more. Sign up for FCPS’ School Boundary Review newsletter as well.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C094DA5AF2EA6FECF8-51211530-cafeteria

 

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C094DA5AF2EA6FECF8-51771041-lunch

7107 Sydenstricker Rd., Springfield, VA 22152  |  Phone: 703.913.8800

Attendance: 703.913.8820 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

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

Hunt Valley PTA News You Choose

We communicate with PTA members and the entire Hunt Valley community about events sponsored by the Hunt Valley Elementary Parent-Teacher Association. If you do not wish to receive PTA emails, please unsubscribe to PTA "News You Choose" using the link at the bottom of this bulletin. 

Hunt Valley ES News You Choose official school communication is sent separately on Fridays with information from HVES Administration. 

                            Click here to get to the Hunt Valley website.

 

Take Out Week!, January 13-17, 2025

Spirit Night @ Chick-Fil-A (Burke Centre) (code HVALLEY25) any time, all week long!

Saturday, January 18, 2025

Ice Skate Night at Fairfax Ice Arena (3779 Pickett Road, Fairfax), 6:45pm - 8:15pm

NEW DATE! Multicultural Night (school led) | January 30, 2025 | 6pm - 8pm

Reflections Artwork Display and Special Performance by Robin Rundquist - Vivian 

Tuesday, February 4, 2025

Spirit Night @ Panera Bread (West Springfield Rolling Rd) (code FUND4U) 4pm - 8pm

Friday, February 7, 2025

Science Fair, School Gym, 6:00pm - 7:30pm 

Friday, February 28, 2025

Spelling Bee, School Cafeteria, 6:00pm - 7:30pm 

EVERY MONDAY

Spirit Night @ Eat Pizza (mention or type “Hunt Valley” in comment box) all day 

EVERY TUESDAY

Spirit Night @ Papa Johns (code HVES4010) all day

A Message from the PTA President

Dear Hunt Valley Families,

Welcome back to what is hopefully a full week of school moving forward after some fun snow days! Thank you for joining us at our first PTA meeting yesterday of 2025. We’ll be taking a meeting break in February, and will resume the PTA meeting on March 11, 2025 from 7-8pm.

The Winter Membership Drive Challenge has begun and the classroom with the highest sign-ups by February 28 will win a free party of their choice! Ms. VanDerhoff’s class (Grade 2) won the Fall Challenge with almost 75% signups and the class had pizza, chips, juice boxes, and hawk stickers! The PTA also gave Ms. VanDerhoff a special congratulatory gift for being an amazing supporter and advocate for the PTA in driving the membership sign-ups. Which classroom will be the next winner? Visit the Givebacks store to sign-up today! https://huntvalleypta.givebacks.com/

Ice skate night is happening this Saturday on January 18. There will be free hot chocolate for everyone so come out and join us on the ice or mingle outside the rink with family, friends, or Netflix. We’ll also be selling spirit wear with special pricing discounts! This is your chance to stock up and avoid doing laundry for a while. 

Make sure to mark your calendars for the science fair on February 7 open to families from 6:00 -  7:30pm and support the students presenting their projects.

The January meeting slide deck, the meeting minutes, and the latest budget are posted on the PTA website here: hvpta.ptboard.com/activity. The documents will be available next week.

Please reach out if you're able to volunteer your time for key open roles within our PTA for next school year!

If you need anything, please reach out to [email protected] or [email protected].

Sincerely,

Iris Stoyanov

Hunt Valley PTA President ​​

Family Fun Ice Skate Night Jan 18, 2025 NEW Registration Link Science Fair 2025

Please use this registration link: https://forms.gle/2hFnDamDcsEmgmhy5

New Date for Multicultural Night with Special PTA Add-Ons

Missed the 12/13/2024 deadline but want to host a booth? Email Mrs. Garretson at [email protected]. Hard deadline Monday, Jan 27, 2025. 

Reflections Artwork Display at 6-8pm: There will be a display set up in the gym to showcase the 25 entries from this year’s Reflections artwork submissions themed “Accepting Imperfection”.  Parents that choose to opt out will be excluded from the display.

Story-telling performance at 7:30pm on the Stage: Performed by Robin Rundquist - Vivian - “The Crack in Everything”. She is featured in the Fairfax County Times! Link: https://tinyurl.com/mryx4jaj

Bio: https://arts4learningva.org/artist/robin-vivian/

Virginia State PTA Membership Milestone

Virginia State PTA has recognized Hunt Valley PTA of having 50% membership growth over last year. Thank you to all that have signed up! The next milestone is reaching 400 members (teachers + parents + community members). Currently at 209 members! The school population is about 740 students. Help us achieve 400!

Parent Volunteer Needed for Afterschool Programs

Kaizen Karate - Every Monday starting on Jan 13th and ends on March 10th

Kids In Motion - Every Thursday starting on Jan 16th and end on March 13th

Program fee will be fully waived for the 1st child, or pro-rated for each class you volunteer for.

Signup to volunteer - https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0D4EA4A62AA5F4C61-53849197-winter/55558246#/

If a parent volunteer is not identified for the three programs above, they will be cancelled.

Hunt Valley 2nd Annual Scripps Spelling Bee

Register your child for the Scripps National Spelling Bee at Hunt Valley! The 2025 Hunt Valley Scripps Spelling Bee is open to all Kindergarten - Grade 6 students and will be held at Hunt Valley Cafeteria on Friday, February 28, 2025, 6:00–8:00 p.m. All interested students must register in advance for the Bee and will receive a word study list. The winner will advance to the Fairfax County Spelling Bee.

Register here: https://forms.gle/nVwaKyHUjTukgpkf9          

Please encourage people to enroll! Last year we had roughly 30 participants.

As of 12/9, only 16 students are registered. Final day to register is Jan 31, 2025.

Call for Judges

We need 3 judges for this event. It is a one-time commitment. The judges simply follow along in the list of given words and give a thumbs up if a word is spelled correctly. If you are available the evening of Feb. 28 and your child is not participating in the Bee, we’d love to have your help at the Judges’ table. Please email me to volunteer.

Questions: Email [email protected]

Hunt Valley’s First Garden Club!

Sponsored by Mrs. Rafle (Kindergarten teacher). She had a spotlight in the December PTA meeting and the slides can be found on the PTA website (hvpta.ptboard.com/activity). If your child (Grade 3 - 6) is interested in joining the Garden Club, submit the registration form by January 31, 2025. The forms will also be in the take-home folders.

Volunteers Needed for the following events

• Teacher Appreciation Week (May 5 - 9) | Email Jillian at [email protected]
• Spring Fling Coordinator (May 9) | Email Iris at [email protected]

• Spring Book Fair Coordinator (Mar 17 - 21) *URGENT* | Email Iris at [email protected]

HVES Book Swap Coming Soon!

When: Tuesday, March 4, 2025

What: Each student is invited to bring in school-aged books in good condition they want to donate and they will be able to take a “new” book or two home the following week

How: Classrooms will sign-up and walkthrough the tables during the school day

Collection Dates: February 24 - 28. Bins will be placed outside the school doors and there will be bins inside the school lobby for students to drop off

Need More of: Chapter books, grades 4 -6 level reading

Not Accepting: Textbooks, religious books, cookbooks, encyclopedias, dictionaries, activity books

Volunteers Needed: Sort books and support day of event. Sign-up coming soon 

Questions: Kate Johnson at [email protected]

Assembly Rescheduled for April 21, 2025 HVES PTA’s Amazon Affiliate Link

EARNINGS TO DATE: $19.99

Support Hunt Valley PTA with Your Amazon Shopping! Use the PTA’s Affiliate Link for your Amazon purchases: https://amzn.to/4dpxoJX

Every purchase you make through our link sends a small commission our way, helping us fund fun events, educational programs, and so much more for our amazing kids. 🎉🎓

It’s simple:

    1.    Click on our Amazon Affiliate Link (https://amzn.to/4dpxoJX)

    2.    Shop as you normally would.

    3.    Feel great knowing you’re contributing to a better school experience for all our students! 😃

 Thank you for your support and happy shopping! Let’s make every purchase count! 🏫💛

Virtual Community Boundary Review Meeting Dates Set

Dates have been confirmed for upcoming virtual Community Boundary Review Meetings. All virtual meetings will follow the same format as the in-person meetings that were recently held, and the same information will be shared.

• Thursday, January 16, 2025, 1-2:30 p.m.
• Saturday, January 25, 2025, 9:30-11 a.m.
• Monday, January 27, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m.
• Tuesday, January 28, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m.
• Monday, February 10, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m.

To ensure a meaningful experience for participants, each virtual Community Boundary Review Meeting will be capped at 400 participants, and each participant will receive their own unique Zoom link. All virtual meetings will follow the same format as the recently held in-person meetings, including the information shared and breakout time. Language interpretation will be available.

Questions - Contact:

• Sandy Anderson | [email protected] | 571-423-1080
• Executive Administrative Assistant: Stephanie Sheridan | [email protected] | 571-423-1065

Join the PTA!

PTA memberships are available for purchase in our online store only for $10! A digital PTA member/student directory is included in the membership price. Teachers and Staff get a $5 discount off in-person spirit wear purchases.

Remember, your PTA membership goes to support students and staff in many ways! Email [email protected] with questions.

School Directory Information: COMING SOON!

General Information & Communication Volunteer Opportunities

We depend on our parent volunteers!

Please use the QR code below or reach out to our PTA Volunteer Coordinator, Sarah Tinsley, at [email protected] to join the mailing list for volunteers. 

 https://forms.gle/ifKFuqzzrwqQbPN17

The following positions are still open for the 2024-2025 school year. You do not have to do it alone. Grab a friend and be a powerful team with the help of a PTA Board Member as your Champion:

●      Spring 2025 Book Fair Coordinator (March 17-21, 2025)

●      Teacher/Staff Appreciation Week (May 5-9, 2025)

●      Spring Fling (May 16, 2025)

If you are interested in learning more, please reach out to [email protected].

PTA Website!

Check out our new PTA website if you haven’t done so already. For those that need it, the school code is: KB63B8. It is designed to make staying up-to-date with latest events and involved easier than ever! Our site features a user-friendly interface with everything you mostly need in one place: 

●      Event Calendar: Sync PTA events and FCPS holidays directly to your personal calendar so you never miss out.

●      Volunteer Sign-Ups: Easily find and sign up for volunteer opportunities that fit your schedule.

●      Student Directory (coming soon): Connect with other families and classmates through our secure online student directory in which only paid members have access, making it easy to arrange playdates, birthday party invitations, study groups, or just stay in touch.

●      Announcements: Stay updated with the latest news and important information from the PTA.

Account creation is required to access full features. Visit our new website today (https://hvpta.ptboard.com/) and explore how we’re making it simpler for families to engage and support our school community! 

If you are interested in learning more, please reach out to [email protected].

Official Hunt Valley PTA Facebook Group

Join the Hunt Valley PTA Facebook Group to stay updated on the latest events, volunteer opportunities, important announcements, and shoutouts celebrating amazing moments. Our group is a space for parents, teachers, and staff to connect, collaborate, and support each other in creating the best learning environment for our students. Follow us for real-time updates, tips, and ways to get involved in making our school community even better! 

Hunt Valley Elementary Parents Facebook Group

You are invited to join the unofficial Facebook group for the Hunt Valley community, Hunt Valley Elementary Parents. Please note that anyone who requests to join, including someone added by an existing group member, must answer the membership questions and check the box indicating agreement to abide by the group rules. If your membership has not been approved, this is likely why; check your Facebook messages (you may have to dig around for the section for messages from non-friends) for assistance from an admin. Please note that this group is not sponsored by the school or the PTA!

PTA Loves Our Local Business Sponsors!

The PTA is proud to announce that we have received a new sponsor. They want to support the PTA, Hunt Valley Elementary, and the Hunt Valley Community. Our newest sponsors include:

●      Peraspori - If you love and appreciate real, pure cold pressed extra virgin olive oil and olives, shop at Peraspori that get it shipped directly from Greece to Virginia. They are also sold in a local shop in Bon Air, VA. If you are passing by, stop by and support.

●      Brian Huber Realtor, Samson Properties - Contact Brian Huber if you are in the market to buy or sell a home. He is an experienced Realtor and Certified Negotiation Expert (CNE). His average days on the market is 9 days and for 98% of list price.

Thank you for your continued support!

●      Arceli Brown from State Farm - Contact Arceli Brown for your home, auto or any insurance needs.

●      Waverly Der from Elite M.A. Burke - Contact Waverly Der, the Program Director, if you’re interested in having your kids learn lasting life skills through martial arts. They teach self-confidence, respect & manners, goal-setting skills, self-defense skills, strength & fitness. Also check out their afterschool program at their facility.

●      Dianna Carr from Be Well Health Coaching - Contact Dianna Carr if you are interested in having a health coach, personal trainer, learn about nutrition and strategies to become a better, healthier version of you.

For more information on each of the sponsors, you can find their marketing material on the PTA Website at https://hvpta.ptboard.com/school/cm?mid=6805.

Help us find more business sponsors to support the PTA

As a Hunt Valley PTA Sponsor, for only $250, the contribution will directly benefit our students and school community, helping us continue to provide enriching experiences for everyone. The business will receive the following benefits:

●      Recognition in Our Weekly Newsletter

●      Acknowledgment at Monthly PTA Meetings

●      Visibility and Invitation to All PTA Sponsored Community Events

●      Tax Deduction

Our goal is to receive 10 corporate sponsorships this year. Help us achieve our goal! If you are interested in finding sponsors or becoming a sponsor and supporting the Hunt Valley PTA, please contact us at [email protected]  

For more info, visit the Hunt Valley Elementary School PTA website

If you have comments or suggestions for this newsletter, email [email protected]

7107 Sydenstricker Rd., Springfield, VA 22152  |  Phone: 703.913.8800

Attendance: 703.913.8820 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

7107 Sydenstricker Rd., Springfield, VA 22152  |  Phone: 703.913.8800

Attendance: 703.913.8820 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

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

Hunt Valley PTA News You Choose

We communicate with PTA members and the entire Hunt Valley community about events sponsored by the Hunt Valley Elementary Parent-Teacher Association. If you do not wish to receive PTA emails, please unsubscribe to PTA "News You Choose" using the link at the bottom of this bulletin. 

Hunt Valley ES News You Choose official school communication is sent separately on Fridays with information from HVES Administration. 

                            Click here to get to the Hunt Valley website.

 

January 8, 2025

In School Assembly Rescheduled for April

Take Out Tuesday, January 13-17, 2025

Spirit Night @ Chick-Fil-A (Burke Centre) (code HVALLEY25) any time, all week long! 

January 14, 2025

100% VIRTUAL PTA Meeting (via Google Meet), 7pm - 8pm

Join us here: https://meet.google.com/gdf-rhfg-som

January 18, 2025

Ice Skate Night at Fairfax Ice Arena (3779 Pickett Road, Fairfax), 6:45pm - 8:15pm

A Message from the PTA President

Dear Hunt Valley Families,

I hope you all had a nice winter break and are surviving all the snow! With the snow unfortunately, the school assembly had to be cancelled. It is rescheduled for April 21.

Regardless, we are excited to be back for the rest of the year and have some great events coming up! This month, we have the exclusive Ice Skate Night event only open to Hunt Valley students and their families. In February we have the Science Fair and Spelling Bee, and in March we'll have the Book Swap and Spring Book Fair. Details on the January and February events are below, and information will follow soon on the March events!

SCIENCE FAIR REGISTRATION FORM: We’ve been getting questions about the science fair form and how parents can see other applicant’s responses. Please use this link to register: https://forms.gle/2hFnDamDcsEmgmhy5. If you have any questions, please email [email protected] and copy [email protected].

Looking forward to next school year, we're going to have some key open positions on the board that we'll need to fill in order to continue the wonderful Hunt Valley PTA. We're going to need a new President, Vice President, and Treasurer. We must fill these positions to have a PTA. We’ll also need a Secretary but it is not required to establish a PTA. If you're interested in learning more about these positions, please reach out!

We're also going to have some chair positions opening up. More to come on those!

If you need anything, please reach out to [email protected] or [email protected].

Sincerely,

Iris Stoyanov

Hunt Valley PTA President ​​

NEW Registration Link Science Fair 2025

Please use this registration link: https://forms.gle/2hFnDamDcsEmgmhy5

Family Fun Ice Skate Night Jan 18, 2025 Hunt Valley 2nd Annual Scripps Spelling Bee

Register your child for the Scripps National Spelling Bee at Hunt Valley! The 2025 Hunt Valley Scripps Spelling Bee is open to all Kindergarten - Grade 6 students and will be held at Hunt Valley Cafeteria on Friday, February 28, 2025, 6:00–8:00 p.m. All interested students must register in advance for the Bee and will receive a word study list. The winner will advance to the Fairfax County Spelling Bee.

Register here: https://forms.gle/nVwaKyHUjTukgpkf9          

Please encourage people to enroll! Last year we had roughly 30 participants.

As of 12/9, only 16 students are registered. Final day to register is Jan 31, 2025.

Call for Judges

We need 3 judges for this event. It is a one-time commitment. The judges simply follow along in the list of given words and give a thumbs up if a word is spelled correctly. If you are available the evening of Feb. 28 and your child is not participating in the Bee, we’d love to have your help at the Judges’ table. Please email me to volunteer.

Questions: Email [email protected]

PTA’s Amazon Affiliate Link 

Support Hunt Valley PTA with Your Amazon Shopping!

Hey Hunt Valley community! 📢 Ready to shop till you drop and support our awesome school staff with classroom needs, general gifting, and PTA events at the same time? 🌟

We’ve got a fantastic opportunity for you! By using our Amazon Affiliate link, you can turn your regular shopping into a powerhouse of support for our PTA. 🛒✨ Every purchase you make through our link sends a small commission our way, helping us fund fun events, educational programs, and so much more for our amazing students. 🎉🎓

It’s simple:

    1.    Click on our Amazon Affiliate Link (https://amzn.to/4dpxoJX)

    2.    Shop as you normally would.

    3.    Feel great knowing you’re contributing to a better school experience for all our students! 😃

 Thank you for your support and happy shopping! Let’s make every purchase count! 🏫💛

Join the PTA!

PTA memberships are available for purchase in our online store only for $10! A digital PTA member/student directory is included in the membership price. Teachers and Staff get a $5 discount off in-person spirit wear purchases.

Remember, your PTA membership goes to support students and staff in many ways! Email [email protected] with questions.

School Directory Information: COMING SOON!

General Information & Communication Volunteer Opportunities

We depend on our parent volunteers!

Please use the QR code below or reach out to our PTA Volunteer Coordinator, Sarah Tinsley, at [email protected] to join the mailing list for volunteers. 

 https://forms.gle/ifKFuqzzrwqQbPN17

The following positions are still open for the 2024-2025 school year. You do not have to do it alone. Grab a friend and be a powerful team with the help of a PTA Board Member as your Champion:

●      Spring 2025 Book Fair Coordinator (March 17-21, 2025)

●      Spring Break Food Drive Coordinator (April 14-18, 2025)

●      Teacher/Staff Appreciation Week (May 5-9, 2025)

●      Spring Fling (May 16, 2025)

If you are interested in learning more, please reach out to [email protected].

PTA Website!

Check out our new PTA website if you haven’t done so already. For those that need it, the school code is: KB63B8. It is designed to make staying up-to-date with latest events and involved easier than ever! Our site features a user-friendly interface with everything you mostly need in one place: 

●      Event Calendar: Sync PTA events and FCPS holidays directly to your personal calendar so you never miss out.

●      Volunteer Sign-Ups: Easily find and sign up for volunteer opportunities that fit your schedule.

●      Student Directory (coming soon): Connect with other families and classmates through our secure online student directory in which only paid members have access, making it easy to arrange playdates, birthday party invitations, study groups, or just stay in touch.

●      Announcements: Stay updated with the latest news and important information from the PTA.

Account creation is required to access full features. Visit our new website today (https://hvpta.ptboard.com/) and explore how we’re making it simpler for families to engage and support our school community! 

If you are interested in learning more, please reach out to [email protected].

Official Hunt Valley PTA Facebook Group

Join the Hunt Valley PTA Facebook Group to stay updated on the latest events, volunteer opportunities, important announcements, and shoutouts celebrating amazing moments. Our group is a space for parents, teachers, and staff to connect, collaborate, and support each other in creating the best learning environment for our students. Follow us for real-time updates, tips, and ways to get involved in making our school community even better! 

Hunt Valley Elementary Parents Facebook Group

You are invited to join the unofficial Facebook group for the Hunt Valley community, Hunt Valley Elementary Parents. Please note that anyone who requests to join, including someone added by an existing group member, must answer the membership questions and check the box indicating agreement to abide by the group rules. If your membership has not been approved, this is likely why; check your Facebook messages (you may have to dig around for the section for messages from non-friends) for assistance from an admin. Please note that this group is not sponsored by the school or the PTA!

PTA Loves Our Local Business Sponsors!

The PTA is proud to announce that we have received a new sponsor. They want to support the PTA, Hunt Valley Elementary, and the Hunt Valley Community. Our newest sponsors include:

●      Peraspori - If you love and appreciate real, pure cold pressed extra virgin olive oil and olives, shop at Peraspori that get it shipped directly from Greece to Virginia. They are also sold in a local shop in Bon Air, VA. If you are passing by, stop by and support.

●      Brian Huber Realtor, Samson Properties - Contact Brian Huber if you are in the market to buy or sell a home. He is an experienced Realtor and Certified Negotiation Expert (CNE). His average days on the market is 9 days and for 98% of list price.

Thank you for your continued support!

●      Arceli Brown from State Farm - Contact Arceli Brown for your home, auto or any insurance needs.

●      Waverly Der from Elite M.A. Burke - Contact Waverly Der, the Program Director, if you’re interested in having your kids learn lasting life skills through martial arts. They teach self-confidence, respect & manners, goal-setting skills, self-defense skills, strength & fitness. Also check out their afterschool program at their facility.

●      Dianna Carr from Be Well Health Coaching - Contact Dianna Carr if you are interested in having a health coach, personal trainer, learn about nutrition and strategies to become a better, healthier version of you.

For more information on each of the sponsors, you can find their marketing material on the PTA Website at https://hvpta.ptboard.com/school/cm?mid=6805.

Help us find more business sponsors to support the PTA

As a Hunt Valley PTA Sponsor, for only $250, the contribution will directly benefit our students and school community, helping us continue to provide enriching experiences for everyone. The business will receive the following benefits:

●      Recognition in Our Weekly Newsletter

●      Acknowledgment at Monthly PTA Meetings

●      Visibility and Invitation to All PTA Sponsored Community Events

●      Tax Deduction

Our goal is to receive 10 corporate sponsorships this year. Help us achieve our goal! If you are interested in finding sponsors or becoming a sponsor and supporting the Hunt Valley PTA, please contact us at [email protected]  

For more info, visit the Hunt Valley Elementary School PTA website

If you have comments or suggestions for this newsletter, email [email protected]

7107 Sydenstricker Rd., Springfield, VA 22152  |  Phone: 703.913.8800

Attendance: 703.913.8820 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

A Message from our Administrators

Dear Hunt Valley Community,

As we leave school for winter break and head into the holiday season, we would like to take a moment and wish everyone a safe and wonderful winter break! We hope that you find time to relax, recharge and make memories with your family and friends. 

The building will be closed during winter break. We ask that our staff take this time to recharge and enjoy spending time with their families. Any emails sent over winter break will be returned within 24-48 hours after our return to school on January 6, 2025. 

Please see below for information about:

• Multicultural Night Information
• Updating ParentVue
• Yearbook Ordering Information
• Preparing for Winter Weather
• Winter Resources from Fairfax County Government Agencies
• Community Boundary Review Meetings
• West Springfield Little League registration

❄️🎶The 2024 Hunt Valley ES Chorus presents Winter Fantasy to kick off Winter Break! Enjoy their playground performance directed by Mrs. Iooss and Mrs. Shumaker!

We hope that everyone has a fantastic winter break! 

Sincerely,

Keieownna Hightower, Principal

Chrissy Gibbs, Assistant Principal

Eric Kopacz, Assistant Principal

Mark Your Calendar

December 23-January 3--Winter Break; Building will be closed

❄️ Be Among the First to Hear About School Delays/Closings

Watch this video to see how FCPS makes weather closing decisions. 

FCPS’ website is generally the first place to find out about emergency weather closings. Other communication channels will be used as quickly as possible, including email, text, social media, and news stations. Learn more about how schedule changes are communicated.

Be among the first to hear about weather delays and closings! Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE. Emails and text messages are sent to parents and caregivers based on the addresses and cell phone numbers entered on this platform. 

❄️ Preparing for Winter Weather

Winter weather will be here before you know it! Watch this video to see how weather-related closing decisions are made.

FCPS’ website is generally the first place to find out about emergency weather closings. Other communication channels will be used as quickly as possible including email, text, social media, and news stations. Learn more about how schedule changes are communicated. 

Be sure to plan for the winter season. Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE, bookmark the FCPS website, and arrange for childcare if needed.

Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

We will monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories which may prevent children from being outside. Make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy their time outdoors. See the National Weather Service’s tips on staying safe during cold weather.

If you need assistance supplying your child with cold-weather clothing, please call Fairfax County's Coordinated Services Planning at 703-222-0880. Their multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health care.

Winter Resources from Fairfax County Government Agencies

🍲 Food Assistance and Resource GuideFood insecurity impacts more than 96,000 Fairfax County residents. There are many resources available to support those who need food assistance. Learn how to help these families and the many resources available to support those who need food assistance on Fairfax County’s website or view the county’s Human Services Resource Guide.

📚 Bundle Up With Books Over Break

Fairfax County Public Library’s (FCPL) winter reading adventure has begun and will continue through Friday, January 31, 2025. Visit your local FCPL library branch or visit their website to register and get a sneak peek at the prizes being offered. Check out their Winter Reading Events webpage to learn about laser tag, movie nights, crafting sessions, Noon-Year Eve celebrations, and book discussions.

⛄ Get Outdoors for Winter Fun!

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

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

Community Boundary Review Meetings

📍 Comprehensive Boundary Review Update

The Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee held its second meeting on December 16 at Gatehouse Administration Center. View key takeaways from that meeting and access the meeting agenda, slides, and other materials that committee members received.  If you did not get a chance to attend an in-person Community Boundary Review Meeting, please consider participating in a virtual meeting:

• Friday, January 10, 2025, 6-7:30 p.m. 

• Thursday, January 16, 2025, 1-2:30 p.m. 

• Saturday, January 25, 2025, 9:30-11 a.m. 

• Monday, January 27, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

• Tuesday, January 28, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

• Monday, February 10, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

Language interpretation will be available. 

All virtual meetings will follow the same format as the in-person meetings that were recently held, and the same information will be shared. Please stay tuned for details on how to register. Visit FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage to learn more. Sign up for FCPS’ School Boundary Review newsletter as well.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C094DA5AF2EA6FECF8-51211530-cafeteria

 

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C094DA5AF2EA6FECF8-51771041-lunch

7107 Sydenstricker Rd., Springfield, VA 22152  |  Phone: 703.913.8800

Attendance: 703.913.8820 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

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

Hunt Valley PTA News You Choose

We communicate with PTA members and the entire Hunt Valley community about events sponsored by the Hunt Valley Elementary Parent-Teacher Association. If you do not wish to receive PTA emails, please unsubscribe to PTA "News You Choose" using the link at the bottom of this bulletin. 

Hunt Valley ES News You Choose official school communication is sent separately on Fridays with information from HVES Administration. 

                            Click here to get to the Hunt Valley website.

 

Dec 23, 2024 - Jan 3, 2025

Winter Holiday Break!

Take Out Tuesday, January 7, 2025 | February 4, 2025

Spirit Night @ Panera (code FUND4U) all day | @ PapaJohns (code HVES4010) all day

January 8, 2025

In School Assembly (Your student does not want to miss this)!

Take Out Tuesday, January 13-17, 2025

Spirit Night @ Chick-Fil-A (Burke Centre) (code HVALLEY25) any time, all week long!

January 14, 2025

100% VIRTUAL PTA Meeting (via Google Meet), 7pm - 8pm

Join us here: https://meet.google.com/gdf-rhfg-som

Multi-Cultural Night | January 16, 2025 | 6pm - 8pm

Reflections Contest Artwork Display and Special Performance from Robin Vivian, local Artist and HV Parent

A Message from the PTA President

Dear Hunt Valley Families,

This is the last week of school before the holiday winter break! Let’s keep this newsletter short and sweet.

Whiteboard Donation Drive Final Report:

• The PTA had a goal of $1200 and we’ve surpassed it by receiving $2000!!! WOW!
• Thank you to all that donated to the whiteboard donation drive! More details below.

Winter Session Afterschool Programs Update - we’ve received questions about what is the Ethereal Free Thinkers class and the Lango language morning sessions.

• The Mondays Ethereal Free Thinkers class is a Writer's Workshop tailored for grades 5 and 6. In this class students will express emotions that are difficult to describe in other ways. This will process and communicate their thoughts and feelings. They will build literacy skills like reading comprehension, phonemic awareness, and storytelling. Register here: https://tinyurl.com/36s83pvc
• The Tuesdays and Fridays Lango Morning sessions are teaching children the Spanish language. There are 2 classes tailored for grades K - 2 and grades 3 - 6. The Lango instructors will provide an introduction to the Spanish language, similar to Spanish 101. In this class, the kids will learn through movement, playacting, art, and basic conversations. Register here: https://huntvalleypta.givebacks.com/
• Check out the link for the full program listing being offered. https://hvpta.ptboard.com/

Boundary Review Advisory Committee Contacts:

• Cory Cress - [email protected]
• Suzanne Dickey - [email protected]

We hope everyone enjoyed all of the PTA events in 2024. We have some great things planned for 2025. Hope you all enjoy your winter break!

If you need anything, please reach out to [email protected] or [email protected].

Sincerely,

Iris Stoyanov

Hunt Valley PTA President ​​

Hunt Valley Winter Food Drive Final Report

We had an amazing turnout all thanks to the generosity of our community. The hunt valley community families have hearty meals, snacks, treats, drinks and even games to enjoy over the holiday season. The board games and new art supplies were generously donated by various local Girl Scout Troops that was organized by Girl Scout Troop 1722. We are all Better Together!

Whiteboard Donation Drive Final Report

• Ms. Hightower informed us that the $2000 can upgrade almost 3 classrooms, starting with 6th grade since they’ll use it more than the younger grades. The school plans to contribute additional funds to upgrade the entire 6th grade team’s classrooms as each classroom costs about $800 to replace the blackboard with a whiteboard.

UPDATED Registration Link Science Fair 2025

Updated registration link: https://forms.gle/2hFnDamDcsEmgmhy5

Winter Session Afterschool Program Classes Enrollment Open and Parent Volunteers needed!

How do I sign up? https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0D4EA4A62AA5F4C61-53849197-winter/55558246#/ 

Hunt Valley 2nd Annual Scripps Spelling Bee

Register your child for the Scripps National Spelling Bee at Hunt Valley! The 2025 Hunt Valley Scripps Spelling Bee is open to all Kindergarten - Grade 6 students and will be held at Hunt Valley Cafeteria on Friday, February 28, 2025, 6:00–8:00 p.m. All interested students must register in advance for the Bee and will receive a word study list. The winner will advance to the Fairfax County Spelling Bee.

Register here: https://forms.gle/nVwaKyHUjTukgpkf9          

Please encourage people to enroll! Last year we had roughly 30 participants.

As of 12/9, only 16 students are registered. Final day to register is Jan 31, 2025.

Call for Judges

We need 3 judges for this event. It is a one-time commitment. The judges simply follow along in the list of given words and give a thumbs up if a word is spelled correctly. If you are available the evening of Feb. 28 and your child is not participating in the Bee, we’d love to have your help at the Judges’ table. Please email me to volunteer.

Questions: Email [email protected]

*Updated Hunt Valley School Staff Favorites List!

The PTA has been working behind the scenes to collect teacher and staff favorites to make it easier for those looking for gift ideas to show appreciation for our amazing teachers and staff. We've collected a list of their favorite things—whether it's a preferred snack, drink, or even a favorite color! These little insights can help you personalize your gifts and make them extra special. The list can be found on our PTA Website: https://hvpta.ptboard.com/school/cm?mid=7056

Thank you for your continued support and generosity!

*Please note: This list only includes staff that have completed the survey.

PTA’s Amazon Affiliate Link 

Support Hunt Valley PTA with Your Amazon Shopping!

Hey Hunt Valley community! 📢 Ready to shop till you drop and support our awesome school staff with classroom needs, general gifting, and PTA events at the same time? 🌟

We’ve got a fantastic opportunity for you! By using our Amazon Affiliate link, you can turn your regular shopping into a powerhouse of support for our PTA. 🛒✨ Every purchase you make through our link sends a small commission our way, helping us fund fun events, educational programs, and so much more for our amazing students. 🎉🎓

It’s simple:

    1.    Click on our Amazon Affiliate Link (https://amzn.to/4dpxoJX)

    2.    Shop as you normally would.

    3.    Feel great knowing you’re contributing to a better school experience for all our students! 😃

 Thank you for your support and happy shopping! Let’s make every purchase count! 🏫💛

Join the PTA!

PTA memberships are available for purchase in our online store only for $10! A digital PTA member/student directory is included in the membership price. Teachers and Staff get a $5 discount off in-person spirit wear purchases.

Remember, your PTA membership goes to support students and staff in many ways! Email [email protected] with questions.

School Directory Information: COMING SOON!

General Information & Communication Volunteer Opportunities

We depend on our parent volunteers!

Please use the QR code below or reach out to our PTA Volunteer Coordinator, Sarah Tinsley, at [email protected] to join the mailing list for volunteers. 

 https://forms.gle/ifKFuqzzrwqQbPN17

The following positions are still open for the 2024-2025 school year. You do not have to do it alone. Grab a friend and be a powerful team with the help of a PTA Board Member as your Champion:

●      Spring 2025 Book Fair Coordinator (March 17-21, 2025)

●      Spring Break Food Drive Coordinator (April 14-18, 2025)

●      Teacher/Staff Appreciation Week (May 5-9, 2025)

●      Spring Fling (May 16, 2025)

If you are interested in learning more, please reach out to [email protected].

  PTA Website!

Check out our new PTA website if you haven’t done so already. For those that need it, the school code is: KB63B8. It is designed to make staying up-to-date with latest events and involved easier than ever! Our site features a user-friendly interface with everything you mostly need in one place: 

●      Event Calendar: Sync PTA events and FCPS holidays directly to your personal calendar so you never miss out.

●      Volunteer Sign-Ups: Easily find and sign up for volunteer opportunities that fit your schedule.

●      Student Directory (coming soon): Connect with other families and classmates through our secure online student directory in which only paid members have access, making it easy to arrange playdates, birthday party invitations, study groups, or just stay in touch.

●      Announcements: Stay updated with the latest news and important information from the PTA.

Account creation is required to access full features. Visit our new website today (https://hvpta.ptboard.com/) and explore how we’re making it simpler for families to engage and support our school community! 

If you are interested in learning more, please reach out to [email protected].

Official Hunt Valley PTA Facebook Group

Join the Hunt Valley PTA Facebook Group to stay updated on the latest events, volunteer opportunities, important announcements, and shoutouts celebrating amazing moments. Our group is a space for parents, teachers, and staff to connect, collaborate, and support each other in creating the best learning environment for our students. Follow us for real-time updates, tips, and ways to get involved in making our school community even better! 

Hunt Valley Elementary Parents Facebook Group

You are invited to join the unofficial Facebook group for the Hunt Valley community, Hunt Valley Elementary Parents. Please note that anyone who requests to join, including someone added by an existing group member, must answer the membership questions and check the box indicating agreement to abide by the group rules. If your membership has not been approved, this is likely why; check your Facebook messages (you may have to dig around for the section for messages from non-friends) for assistance from an admin. Please note that this group is not sponsored by the school or the PTA!

PTA Loves Our Local Business Sponsors!

The PTA is proud to announce that we have received a new sponsor. They want to support the PTA, Hunt Valley Elementary, and the Hunt Valley Community. Our newest sponsors include:

●      Peraspori - If you love and appreciate real, pure cold pressed extra virgin olive oil and olives, shop at Peraspori that get it shipped directly from Greece to Virginia. They are also sold in a local shop in Bon Air, VA. If you are passing by, stop by and support.

●      Brian Huber Realtor, Samson Properties - Contact Brian Huber if you are in the market to buy or sell a home. He is an experienced Realtor and Certified Negotiation Expert (CNE). His average days on the market is 9 days and for 98% of list price.

Thank you for your continued support!

●      Arceli Brown from State Farm - Contact Arceli Brown for your home, auto or any insurance needs.

●      Waverly Der from Elite M.A. Burke - Contact Waverly Der, the Program Director, if you’re interested in having your kids learn lasting life skills through martial arts. They teach self-confidence, respect & manners, goal-setting skills, self-defense skills, strength & fitness. Also check out their afterschool program at their facility.

●      Dianna Carr from Be Well Health Coaching - Contact Dianna Carr if you are interested in having a health coach, personal trainer, learn about nutrition and strategies to become a better, healthier version of you.

For more information on each of the sponsors, you can find their marketing material on the PTA Website at https://hvpta.ptboard.com/school/cm?mid=6805.

Help us find more business sponsors to support the PTA

As a Hunt Valley PTA Sponsor, for only $250, the contribution will directly benefit our students and school community, helping us continue to provide enriching experiences for everyone. The business will receive the following benefits:

●      Recognition in Our Weekly Newsletter

●      Acknowledgment at Monthly PTA Meetings

●      Visibility and Invitation to All PTA Sponsored Community Events

●      Tax Deduction

Our goal is to receive 10 corporate sponsorships this year. Help us achieve our goal! If you are interested in finding sponsors or becoming a sponsor and supporting the Hunt Valley PTA, please contact us at [email protected]  

For more info, visit the Hunt Valley Elementary School PTA website

If you have comments or suggestions for this newsletter, email [email protected]

7107 Sydenstricker Rd., Springfield, VA 22152  |  Phone: 703.913.8800

Attendance: 703.913.8820 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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A Message from our Administrators

Dear Hunt Valley Community,

This month continues to fly by, and we only have one week left before winter break. Over the last two weeks we have had our 15 days of cheer for staff, and we appreciate the support from our PTA and Sunshine Committee! This week, our staff has enjoyed soup, a potluck lunch, massages, hot chocolate and cookie decorating. We know that our staff is looking forward to the PTA's Sweet Shoppe on Monday. We are so grateful for the kindness and treats that you have given to us!

If you are looking for something to do tomorrow, the West Springfield HS Choral Department is hosting a Breakfast with Santa. See more details below. 

Any family that is interested in having their child be considered for full-time Advanced Academic services the deadline is Sunday, December 15th at 11:59 pm. No late forms will be accepted.

Please remind your child(ren) to look through our Lost and Found if they are missing a jacket, sweater, water bottle, lunch box, gloves, etc. Any unclaimed items will be donated on Friday, December 20th. 

There is a lot of information below so please look through News You Choose for:

• West Springfield High School Breakfast with Santa
• Employee Awards
• Full-Time AAP Referral Window Reminder
• Federal Impact Aid Survey Reminder
• SEL Screener Information
• SCA Updates
• Multicultural Night Information
• Yearbook Ordering Information
• Update on Potential Changes to Middle School Start Times
• Community Meetings on the Comprehensive Boundary Review
• Preparing for Winter Weather
• Winter Resources from Fairfax County Government Agencies
• West Springfield Little League registration

We hope that everyone has a fantastic weekend! 

Sincerely,

Keieownna Hightower, Principal

Chrissy Gibbs, Assistant Principal

Eric Kopacz, Assistant Principal

Mark Your Calendar

December 15--Full-Time AAP Referral Form DUE

December 23-January 3--Winter Break; Building will be closed

Employee Awards

Congratulations to our Employee Awards Nominees and Winners:

Outstanding Operational Employee: Melanie Prendergast

Outstanding Professional Employee: Meg Moody and Stephanie Lady

Outstanding New Teacher: Annie Nielsen

Outstanding Teacher: Meredith Leech

Outstanding Leader: Eric Kopacz

Outstanding New Principal: Keieownna Hightower

Ms. Prendergast, Ms. Lady, Ms. Nielsen, and Ms. Leech will move on to the pyramid level!

Thank you to everyone who nominated one of our outstanding employees!

Full-Time AAP Referral Window Reminder for Parents

Parents/guardians who would like their student to be considered for full-time Advanced Academic services may submit the Full-Time Referral Form (translations linked below) to the local school Advanced Academic Resource Teacher (AART) no later than December 15, 2024. No late forms will be accepted.  Point of Contact:  Ashley Huntley, [email protected]

Full-Time Referral Form (PDF)

• Arabic
• Chinese
• English
• Korean
• Spanish 
• Urdu
• Vietnamese

Return Your Federal Impact Aid Survey

A huge THANK YOU to all the families that have filled out and submited their form through ParentVue or sent the paper survey back to HVES!!! If you still have the paper survey form that was sent home in your child's Wednesday Folder, please fill it out and return the form to the classroom teacher ASAP. 

SEL Screener Information

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

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

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

Update on Potential Changes to Middle School Start Times

At Tuesday’s School Board work session, staff from Prismatic Services, Inc., presented options for adjusting start times at FCPS middle schools. As a reminder, Prismatic is charged with developing an action plan to help the School Board reach its goal of starting middle school at or after 8 a.m.

The presentation includes five options for adjusting middle school start times based on the consultant’s analysis from community forums, surveys, and interviews with staff, parents, associations, and other groups. The School Board will provide next steps to the superintendent.

Watch a video of the work session. Visit the Middle School Start Times webpage for more information on the project.

Community Meetings on the Comprehensive Boundary Review

If you did not get a chance to attend one of the recent community meetings on the Comprehensive Boundary Review, please consider attending the final meeting in this first phase of the boundary review process. The Region 1 meeting will take place Wednesday, December 18, 6:30-8 p.m.,in the Madison High School cafeteria. Register today. If you are unable to participate, stay tuned for details about virtual Community Boundary Review Meetings coming early next year.

View FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage for more information. Sign up for FCPS’ School Boundary Review newsletter as well.

❄️ Preparing for Winter Weather

Winter weather will be here before you know it! Watch this video to see how weather-related closing decisions are made.

FCPS’ website is generally the first place to find out about emergency weather closings. Other communication channels will be used as quickly as possible including email, text, social media, and news stations. Learn more about how schedule changes are communicated. 

Be sure to plan for the winter season. Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE, bookmark the FCPS website, and arrange for childcare if needed.

Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

We will monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories which may prevent children from being outside. Make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy their time outdoors. See the National Weather Service’s tips on staying safe during cold weather.

If you need assistance supplying your child with cold-weather clothing, please call Fairfax County's Coordinated Services Planning at 703-222-0880. Their multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health care.

Winter Resources from Fairfax County Government Agencies

🍲 Food Assistance and Resource GuideFood insecurity impacts more than 96,000 Fairfax County residents. There are many resources available to support those who need food assistance. Learn how to help these families and the many resources available to support those who need food assistance on Fairfax County’s website or view the county’s Human Services Resource Guide.

📚 Bundle Up With Books Over Break

Fairfax County Public Library’s (FCPL) winter reading adventure has begun and will continue through Friday, January 31, 2025. Visit your local FCPL library branch or visit their website to register and get a sneak peek at the prizes being offered. Check out their Winter Reading Events webpage to learn about laser tag, movie nights, crafting sessions, Noon-Year Eve celebrations, and book discussions.

⛄ Get Outdoors for Winter Fun!

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

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

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C094DA5AF2EA6FECF8-51211530-cafeteria

 

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C094DA5AF2EA6FECF8-51771041-lunch

7107 Sydenstricker Rd., Springfield, VA 22152  |  Phone: 703.913.8800

Attendance: 703.913.8820 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

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Hunt Valley PTA News You Choose

We communicate with PTA members and the entire Hunt Valley community about events sponsored by the Hunt Valley Elementary Parent-Teacher Association. If you do not wish to receive PTA emails, please unsubscribe to PTA "News You Choose" using the link at the bottom of this bulletin. 

Hunt Valley ES News You Choose official school communication is sent separately on Fridays with information from HVES Administration. 

                            Click here to get to the Hunt Valley website.

  PTA Important Dates

December 12-13, 2024

Winter Food Drive and Whiteboard Donation Drive Ends This Week! 

December 16, 2024

Day 3 of Cheer - PTA Hospitality Committee organized a Sweet Shoppe for all school staff

Dec 23, 2024 - Jan 3, 2025

Winter Holiday Break!

Take Out Tuesday, January 7, 2025 | February 4, 2025

Spirit Night @ Panera (code FUND4U) all day | @ PapaJohns (code HVES4010) all day

January 8, 2025

In School Assembly (Your student does not want to miss this)!  

Take Out Tuesday, January 13-17, 2025

Spirit Night @ Chick-Fil-A (Burke Centre) (code HVALLEY25) any time, all week long!

January 14, 2025

100% VIRTUAL PTA Meeting (via Google Meet), 7pm - 8pm

Join us here: https://meet.google.com/gdf-rhfg-som

 

A Message from the PTA President

Dear Hunt Valley Families,

Thank you for joining us at our PTA meeting yesterday. Thank you to our special guest, Mrs. Margo Rafle for spearheading the first Garden Club at Hunt Valley, which will start up March 2025. Stay tuned for more details in the new year.

Thank you to all that donated to the whiteboard donation drive! The PTA has a goal of $1200 and we’ve collected $790 so far! WOW! The drive ends this week and we can use more donations to reach $1200. We can do it! We will recognize all that have donated to the drive. If you want to remain anonymous, please let me know. You can donate via check, cash, or Givebacks here: https://huntvalleypta.givebacks.com/store/items/1135063.

We also passed the motion to approve an increase to the membership dues to $15 starting January 1, 2025. The reason for the increase is because PTA National, State, and Local dues have increased along with other costs to run programs. The December meeting slide deck and the latest budget are posted on the PTA website here: hvpta.ptboard.com/activity.

The PTA received feedback from the fall afterschool programs and there were some incidents that occurred where a parent volunteer is now required to be present at every afterschool program starting with the upcoming winter session and moving forward. We need parent volunteers to make the winter session afterschool programs happen. As a parent volunteer and if your child is registered for the class, then your child’s enrollment fee will be 100% waived (except for Lango, you will receive a $40 discount). There are nine classes which provides an incredible variety of classes but we need your help to ensure the safety and smooth operation of each class. Here is the sign-up.  https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0D4EA4A62AA5F4C61-53849197-winter/55558246#/.

Lastly, towards the end of the PTA meeting, Suzanne Dickey announced that she has been selected to be a part of the Boundary Review Advisory Committee (BRAC). Mr. Cory Cress ([email protected]), a community member, also joined the meeting and identified himself as the other BRAC member that was selected for the West Springfield High School pyramid. He resides within the HVES school zone and has children attending Irving Middle School and West Springfield High School. 

A special thank you to our amazing PTA hospitality committee for organizing an amazing Taco Bar Luncheon and Massage Day for the school stuff on Dec 5 and Dec 11, respectively. This is a great start to closing out the calendar year and preparing for the upcoming holiday break. A nice holiday sweet shoppe is coming up on Dec 16 to close out the PTA’s 3 Days of Cheer in support of the school’s 15 Days of Cheer. Thank you Jillian Inoyue (Chair), Megan Collmus, Brittany Faulkner, Jessica Urbon, and Meredith Stankiewicz. 

A major shoutout to the Reflections Contest winners and participants. Five 1st place winners will be advancing to the County level Reflections Contest. Best of luck to the students! Thank you to our wonderful Coordinator, Daphne Huber, and the judges, Mrs. Bartlett (school librarian), Mrs. Kenely (school reading teacher), Mrs. Andrianne Konstas (HV Parent & Artist), and Mrs. Syahidah Osman (HV Parent & Artist) for volunteering in taking on these important roles and making this year’s inaugural Reflections Contest a success.

 

 

The 2025 Science Fair is officially accepting applications. If you are interested in participating in the science fair or have questions, please reach out to Tori Whyte at [email protected]. More details are below.

If you need anything, please reach out to [email protected] or [email protected].

Sincerely,

Iris Stoyanov

Hunt Valley PTA President ​​

PTA’s Amazon Affiliate Link 

Make it even easier by bookmarking the link above!

Use the bookmark every time you shop on Amazon, and keep supporting Hunt Valley PTA with every purchase.

 Support Hunt Valley PTA with Your Amazon Shopping!

Hey Hunt Valley community! 📢 Ready to shop till you drop and support our awesome school staff with classroom needs, general gifting, and PTA events at the same time? 🌟

We’ve got a fantastic opportunity for you! By using our Amazon Affiliate link, you can turn your regular shopping into a powerhouse of support for our PTA. 🛒✨ Every purchase you make through our link sends a small commission our way, helping us fund fun events, educational programs, and so much more for our amazing students. 🎉🎓

It’s simple:

    1.    Click on our Amazon Affiliate Link (https://amzn.to/4dpxoJX)

    2.    Shop as you normally would.

    3.    Feel great knowing you’re contributing to a better school experience for all our students! 😃

📌 Bookmark and Support! 📌

  Thank you for your support and happy shopping! Let’s make every purchase count! 🏫💛

Teacher and Staff Appreciation Donations

Stock the Teacher's Lounge: The Hospitality Committee is collecting donations to stock the Teacher's Lounge for our wonderful staff. Please see the SignUp Genius for items needed.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E0D44ADAB2DABFE3-53314528-teachers

On December 16, we will be hosting the 3rd annual Sweet Shoppe, and we need bakers! Please see the Sign Up Genius for information.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E0D44ADAB2DABFE3-53427713-2024

Save the Date: Hunt Valley Winter Food Drive (Dec 2-12, 2024)

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080448AEA72AA0F94-53658536-hves#/

Save the Date: Whiteboard Donation Drive (Dec 2-13, 2024)

 

For checks, please make it payable to Hunt Valley Elementary School PTA with memo line: Whiteboards. You can turn it in to the teacher or contact [email protected] to arrange pick-up.

Here’s the donation link on Givebacks using a credit card: https://huntvalleypta.givebacks.com/store/items/1135063

Science Fair 2025

Parent and teacher volunteers needed! Please email [email protected]. Participants will receive a certificate of recognition

Schedule of Events:

Feb 6 (5:30 pm - 6:30 pm): Parents drop off projects

Feb 7 (9:05 am - 7:30 pm): Projects displayed in gym

Feb 7 (10:00 am - 3:30 pm): Classes will visit the exhibit

Feb 7 (6:00 pm - 7:30 pm) : Exhibit is open for parents and families

Feb 7 (7:30 pm - 8:00 pm): Pick up projects

Feb 7 (8:00 pm - 8:30 pm): Clean up

Winter Session Afterschool Program Classes Enrollment Open and Parent Volunteers needed!

*Every after-school program requires a parent volunteer. If a parent volunteer is not identified, the program will be cancelled.*

Parent Volunteer Duties

1. Attend all sessions; even if your child is absent (or arrange for a substitute)
2. Be inside the school’s lobby under the TV by 3:50pm to receive the after school program kids (For Lango’s morning class, be at the front doors by 8:05am to receive students)
3. Account for all children by taking attendance, comparing the attendance list with the absentee list at the front office (Lango class not applicable), and calling the parent(s) if a kid is missing who should be there. An information sheet with sign ups & parent’s phone numbers will be provided before the start of the program
4. Assist during the class
5. At the end of the class, hand over each kid to their parents after having them sign out and checking IDs (For Lango’s morning class, escort each student to their morning class at 9:05am)

Parent Volunteer Perk! The full program fee will be returned to the volunteer at the end of the program (except for Lango; they will reimburse $40 to the parent volunteer)

How do I sign up? https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0D4EA4A62AA5F4C61-53849197-winter/55558246#/ 

MONDAY Kaizen Karate ($115/child) | 4:15pm - 5:15pm | (8 weeks)             

Grades K - 6 | Dates: Jan 13 - March 03 (no class Jan 20, Feb 10, 17, Mar 10)

This popular class is a disciplined introduction to sport. Your child will learn the beautiful art of karate while gaining safety and defensive skills in a respectful environment.

Register by Jan 3rd: http://www.kaizenfitnessusa.com/

MONDAY Ethereal free thinkers ($120/child) 4:15 pm - 5:15 pm | (6 weeks)

Grades 5 and 6 | Dates: Jan 13 - March 17 (no classes Jan 20, Feb 10, 17, Mar 10)

In this class students will express emotions that are difficult to describe in other ways. This will process and communicate their thoughts and feelings. They will build literacy skills like reading comprehension, phonemic awareness, and storytelling.

Register by Jan 3rd: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfX-p8XiupKRX-27wAROKCMSP-EPW_qYwgRlvJIp8OzVeFtlw/viewform

TUESDAY Pickleball ($180/child) | 4:15pm - 5:15pm | (9 weeks)     

Grade K – 6 | Dates: Jan14 – March 11 (no missed days)

TGA's action-packed pickleball enrichment programs are perfect for beginners and more experienced students to develop their skills and have fun learning about the sport in a safe and supportive environment.

Register by Jan 3rd : https://registration.youthathletesunited.com/events/spotlight/tgat-hunt-valley-elementary-school-wednesday-4-15-pm-y-0-m-y-m

TUESDAY Comic Crafters ($193/child) 4:15 pm - 5:15 pm | (9 weeks)

Grades 3 - 4 | Dates: (Jan 14 - March 11) (no missed days)

Students will share their real- world experience as comic creators to outline exactly what it takes to successfully tell stories in a graphic format. This will develop composition techniques through visual and verbal connection. This program will also enrich reading, writing and thinking ability.

Register by Jan 3rd : https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScYmpgqP6Qn5NHjFpLdtfr4zI7hMCXE3GPf639nglBUjqJz-A/viewform?usp=sf_link

WEDNESDAY Golf ($250/child)| 4:15pm - 5:15pm | (10 weeks)

Grade K – 6 |Dates: Jan 15 – March 12 (no class on Jan 29)

TGA's action-packed golf enrichment programs are perfect for beginners and more experienced students to develop their skills and have fun learning about the sport in a safe and supportive environment.

Register by Jan 3rd: https://registration.youthathletesunited.com/events/spotlight/tgag-hunt-valley-elementary-school-tuesday-4-15-pm-y-0-m-y-0-m

WEDNESDAY CodeFuture ($60/child) | 4:15pm - 5:15pm | (9 weeks)

Grades 3 - 6 | Dates: Jan 15 - March 12 (no class on Jan 29)

CodeFuture is a volunteer nonprofit run by students from TJHSST, aims to introduce coding to elementary school students through affordable workshops.

Register by Jan 3rd :  https://huntvalleypta.givebacks.com/store?limit=21&live=true

THURSDAY Kids In Motion ($154/child) | 4:15pm - 5:15pm (10 weeks)

Grades K - 3 | Dates: Jan 16 - March 13 (no missed classes)

This is a dance fitness class that uses kid friendly songs, choreography, and dance games. This class helps children make friends, get active after school, and love dance fitness!

Register by Jan 3rd: https://www.novakidsinmotion.com/registration/

___________________________________________________________________________________________                                                                                                                                                     

FRIDAY  Magnus Chess ($168/child) | 4:15pm - 5:15pm (8 weeks)

Grades K - 6 | Dates: Jan 17 - March 7 (no missed classes )

Fun is the name of the game, but Magnus Chess Academy also sneaks in a bit of critical thinking, sportsmanship, and patience into the chess club!

Register by Jan 3rd: www.chessacademy.com

FRIDAY Soccer (135$/child) | 4:15 – 5:15 pm (8 weeks)

Grades K - 6 | Dates: Jan 17 - March 7 (no missed classes)

BBA mission is to passionately serve students, parents, and schools nationwide. They are dedicated to enhancing the educational experience by offering a diverse range of enrichment programs for schools throughout the country.

Register by Jan 3rd: https://bbaafterschool.leagueapps.com/events/4448587-hunt-valley-elementary-soccer-spring-2025

Morning Session (DATES HAVE BEEN CORRECTED BELOW)

Lango was established on the belief that every American child should learn a second language. Lango has created a program that would teach kids new languages in a way that they would love through movement, playacting, art and basic conversations.

TUESDAY Lango ($170/child) | 8:15 am – 9:05 am (9 weeks)

Grade 3 – 6 | Dates: Jan 17 – March 14 (no missed classes)

Register by Jan 3rd: https://huntvalleypta.givebacks.com/store?limit=21&live=true

FRIDAY Lango ($170) | 8:15am - 9:05 am (9 weeks)

Grade K - 2 | Dates: Jan 14 – March 11 (no missed classes)

Register by Jan 3rd: https://huntvalleypta.givebacks.com/store?limit=21&live=true

In School Assembly Is Back! January 8, 2025

The PTA is proud to partner with the school and bring back the first assembly since the pandemic. Many thanks to the school Admins – Ms. Hightower, Mrs. Gibbs, and Mr. Kopaz along with school representative Mrs. Rafle to make this happen. This is a show that you don’t want your students to miss out. Details are below:

• January 8, 2025
• When: 10am and 11am (back to back show)
• Where: School gym
• Performer: Joe Romano
• Website: https://www.ultimateschoolshows.com/
• A sample clip: https://vimeo.com/738637707

Hunt Valley 2nd Annual Scripps Spelling Bee

Register your child for the Scripps National Spelling Bee at Hunt Valley! The 2025 Hunt Valley Scripps Spelling Bee is open to all Kindergarten - Grade 6 students and will be held at Hunt Valley Cafeteria on Friday, February 28, 2025, 6:00–8:00 p.m. All interested students must register in advance for the Bee and will receive a word study list. The winner will advance to the Fairfax County Spelling Bee.

Register here: https://forms.gle/nVwaKyHUjTukgpkf9          

Please encourage people to enroll! Last year we had roughly 30 participants.

As of 12/9, only 16 students are registered. Final day to register is Jan 31, 2025.

Call for Judges

We need 3 judges for this event. It is a one-time commitment. The judges simply follow along in the list of given words and give a thumbs up if a word is spelled correctly. If you are available the evening of Feb. 28 and your child is not participating in the Bee, we’d love to have your help at the Judges’ table. Please email me to volunteer.

Questions: Email [email protected]

*Updated Hunt Valley School Staff Favorites List!

The PTA has been working behind the scenes to collect teacher and staff favorites to make it easier for those looking for gift ideas to show appreciation for our amazing teachers and staff. We've collected a list of their favorite things—whether it's a preferred snack, drink, or even a favorite color! These little insights can help you personalize your gifts and make them extra special. The list can be found on our PTA Website: https://hvpta.ptboard.com/school/cm?mid=7056

Thank you for your continued support and generosity!

*Please note: This list only includes staff that have completed the survey.

New Garden Club Sponsored by Mrs. Rafle

If you are interested in registering your child and/or volunteering to support the Garden Club, please reach out to Mrs. Rafle ([email protected]) and PTA ([email protected]).

HVES STEAM LAB Needs Your Recyclables! Boundary Review Advisory Committee (BRAC)

●      Suzanne Dickey and Cory Cress ([email protected]) have been selected to be on the Boundary Review Advisory Committee for the West Springfield High School Pyramid.

●      The FCPS BRAC page is located here: https://www.fcps.edu/about-fcps/maps/2024-2026-boundary-review/superintendents-boundary-review-advisory-committee.

●      Subscribe to the FCPS BRAC newsletter here: https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/VAEDUFCPS/subscriber/new?topic_id=School_Boundary_Review.

Join the PTA!

PTA memberships are available for purchase in our online store only for $10! A digital PTA member/student directory is included in the membership price. Teachers and Staff get a $5 discount off in-person spirit wear purchases.

Remember, your PTA membership goes to support students and staff in many ways! Email [email protected] with questions.

School Directory Information: COMING SOON!

General Information & Communication Volunteer Opportunities

We depend on our parent volunteers!

Please use the QR code below or reach out to our PTA Volunteer Coordinator, Sarah Tinsley, at [email protected] to join the mailing list for volunteers. 

 https://forms.gle/ifKFuqzzrwqQbPN17

The following positions are still open for the 2024-2025 school year. You do not have to do it alone. Grab a friend and be a powerful team with the help of a PTA Board Member as your Champion:

●      Spring 2025 Book Fair Coordinator (March 17-21, 2025)

●      Teacher/Staff Appreciation Week (May 5-9, 2025)

●      Spring Fling (May 16, 2025)

If you are interested in learning more, please reach out to [email protected].

PTA Website!

Check out our new PTA website if you haven’t done so already. For those that need it, the school code is: KB63B8. It is designed to make staying up-to-date with latest events and involved easier than ever! Our site features a user-friendly interface with everything you mostly need in one place: 

●      Event Calendar: Sync PTA events and FCPS holidays directly to your personal calendar so you never miss out.

●      Volunteer Sign-Ups: Easily find and sign up for volunteer opportunities that fit your schedule.

●      Student Directory (coming soon): Connect with other families and classmates through our secure online student directory in which only paid members have access, making it easy to arrange playdates, birthday party invitations, study groups, or just stay in touch.

●      Announcements: Stay updated with the latest news and important information from the PTA.

Account creation is required to access full features. Visit our new website today (https://hvpta.ptboard.com/) and explore how we’re making it simpler for families to engage and support our school community! 

If you are interested in learning more, please reach out to [email protected].

Official Hunt Valley PTA Facebook Group

Join the Hunt Valley PTA Facebook Group to stay updated on the latest events, volunteer opportunities, important announcements, and shoutouts celebrating amazing moments. Our group is a space for parents, teachers, and staff to connect, collaborate, and support each other in creating the best learning environment for our students. Follow us for real-time updates, tips, and ways to get involved in making our school community even better! 

Hunt Valley Elementary Parents Facebook Group

You are invited to join the unofficial Facebook group for the Hunt Valley community, Hunt Valley Elementary Parents. Please note that anyone who requests to join, including someone added by an existing group member, must answer the membership questions and check the box indicating agreement to abide by the group rules. If your membership has not been approved, this is likely why; check your Facebook messages (you may have to dig around for the section for messages from non-friends) for assistance from an admin. Please note that this group is not sponsored by the school or the PTA!

PTA Loves Our Local Business Sponsors!

The PTA is proud to announce that we have received a new sponsor. They want to support the PTA, Hunt Valley Elementary, and the Hunt Valley Community. Our newest sponsors include:

●      Peraspori - If you love and appreciate real, pure cold pressed extra virgin olive oil and olives, shop at Peraspori that get it shipped directly from Greece to Virginia. They are also sold in a local shop in Bon Air, VA. If you are passing by, stop by and support.

●      Brian Huber Realtor, Samson Properties - Contact Brian Huber if you are in the market to buy or sell a home. He is an experienced Realtor and Certified Negotiation Expert (CNE). His average days on the market is 9 days and for 98% of list price.

Thank you for your continued support!

●      Arceli Brown from State Farm - Contact Arceli Brown for your home, auto or any insurance needs.

●      Waverly Der from Elite M.A. Burke - Contact Waverly Der, the Program Director, if you’re interested in having your kids learn lasting life skills through martial arts. They teach self-confidence, respect & manners, goal-setting skills, self-defense skills, strength & fitness. Also check out their afterschool program at their facility.

●      Dianna Carr from Be Well Health Coaching - Contact Dianna Carr if you are interested in having a health coach, personal trainer, learn about nutrition and strategies to become a better, healthier version of you.

For more information on each of the sponsors, you can find their marketing material on the PTA Website at https://hvpta.ptboard.com/school/cm?mid=6805.

Help us find more business sponsors to support the PTA

As a Hunt Valley PTA Sponsor, for only $250, the contribution will directly benefit our students and school community, helping us continue to provide enriching experiences for everyone. The business will receive the following benefits:

●      Recognition in Our Weekly Newsletter

●      Acknowledgment at Monthly PTA Meetings

●      Visibility and Invitation to All PTA Sponsored Community Events

●      Tax Deduction

Our goal is to receive 10 corporate sponsorships this year. Help us achieve our goal! If you are interested in finding sponsors or becoming a sponsor and supporting the Hunt Valley PTA, please contact us at [email protected]  

For more info, visit the Hunt Valley Elementary School PTA website

If you have comments or suggestions for this newsletter, email [email protected]

7107 Sydenstricker Rd., Springfield, VA 22152  |  Phone: 703.913.8800

Attendance: 703.913.8820 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

  A Message from our Administrators

Dear Hunt Valley Community,

We hope that everyone enjoyed the holiday last week and had time to relax and reconnect with family and friends. We have made it to the last month of 2024 and December has brought with it some frigid temperatures. Please make sure that students dress in layers and have appropriate winter gear for recess outside. We have an abundance of jackets, sweatshirts and water bottles that are currently in our Lost and Found. Please remind your child(ren) to check the Lost and Found over the next few weeks for their belongings. Any unclaimed items will be donated on Friday, December 20th. 

We want to give a huge thank you to the PTA and parent volunteers for providing a delicious lunch to our staff on Thursday! It was fabulous. Our 15 Days of Cheer for staff continues next week! There is a lot of information in this week's News You Choose. 

In this week's News You Choose you will find:

• Picture Retake/Makeup Information
• Federal Impact Aid Survey Reminder
• SEL Screener Information
• Food Drive 
• Toy Drive
• Full-Time AAP Referral Window Reminder
• Multicultural Night Information
• Yearbook Ordering Information
• Update on Potential Changes to Middle School Start Times
• Preparing for Winter Weather
• Winter Resources from Fairfax County Government Agencies

We hope that everyone has a fantastic weekend! 

Sincerely,

Keieownna Hightower, Principal

Chrissy Gibbs, Assistant Principal

Eric Kopacz, Assistant Principal

Mark Your Calendar

December 9--Picutre Makeups

December 15--Full-Time AAP Referral Form DUE

December 23-January 3--Winter Break

Picture Retakes/Make ups will be Monday, December 9

If you want your child’s picture re-taken, you will need to bring back the original picture packet to give to the photographer.

We will be sending home order envelopes with students who were not in attendance on our original picture day.

Federal Impact Aid Survey Reminder

You can still fill out the Federal Impact Aid survey for each of your students online via your parent SIS account:

1. Log into your ParentVue Account.
2. look for the ‘Online Packets’ link at the top of the page. Click ‘Online Packets’.
3. Click the ‘Federal Impact Aid Survey’ button on the bottom of the page:
4. If you have multiple children in Fairfax County Public Schools, please make sure to fill out a form for each of your children. You will know you have completed all the forms when you see a green check next to each of their names on the final screen.

SEL Screener Information

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

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

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

Full-Time AAP Referral Window Reminder for Parents

Parents/guardians who would like their student to be considered for full-time Advanced Academic services may submit the Full-Time Referral Form (translations linked below) to the local school Advanced Academic Resource Teacher (AART) no later than December 15, 2024. No late forms will be accepted.  Point of Contact:  Ashley Huntley, [email protected]

Full-Time Referral Form (PDF)

• Arabic
• Chinese
• English
• Korean
• Spanish 
• Urdu
• Vietnamese

Update on Potential Changes to Middle School Start Times

At Tuesday’s School Board work session, staff from Prismatic Services, Inc., presented options for adjusting start times at FCPS middle schools. As a reminder, Prismatic is charged with developing an action plan to help the School Board reach its goal of starting middle school at or after 8 a.m.

The presentation includes five options for adjusting middle school start times based on the consultant’s analysis from community forums, surveys, and interviews with staff, parents, associations, and other groups. The School Board will provide next steps to the superintendent.

Watch a video of the work session. Visit the Middle School Start Times webpage for more information on the project.

❄️ Preparing for Winter Weather

Winter weather will be here before you know it! Watch this video to see how weather-related closing decisions are made.

FCPS’ website is generally the first place to find out about emergency weather closings. Other communication channels will be used as quickly as possible including email, text, social media, and news stations. Learn more about how schedule changes are communicated. 

Be sure to plan for the winter season. Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE, bookmark the FCPS website, and arrange for childcare if needed.

Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

We will monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories which may prevent children from being outside. Make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy their time outdoors. See the National Weather Service’s tips on staying safe during cold weather.

If you need assistance supplying your child with cold-weather clothing, please call Fairfax County's Coordinated Services Planning at 703-222-0880. Their multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health care.

Winter Resources from Fairfax County Government Agencies

🍲 Food Assistance and Resource GuideFood insecurity impacts more than 96,000 Fairfax County residents. There are many resources available to support those who need food assistance. Learn how to help these families and the many resources available to support those who need food assistance on Fairfax County’s website or view the county’s Human Services Resource Guide.

📚 Bundle Up With Books Over Break

Fairfax County Public Library’s (FCPL) winter reading adventure has begun and will continue through Friday, January 31, 2025. Visit your local FCPL library branch or visit their website to register and get a sneak peek at the prizes being offered. Check out their Winter Reading Events webpage to learn about laser tag, movie nights, crafting sessions, Noon-Year Eve celebrations, and book discussions.

⛄ Get Outdoors for Winter Fun!

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

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

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C094DA5AF2EA6FECF8-51211530-cafeteria

 

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C094DA5AF2EA6FECF8-51771041-lunch

7107 Sydenstricker Rd., Springfield, VA 22152  |  Phone: 703.913.8800

Attendance: 703.913.8820 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

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

Hunt Valley PTA News You Choose

We communicate with PTA members and the entire Hunt Valley community about events sponsored by the Hunt Valley Elementary Parent-Teacher Association. If you do not wish to receive PTA emails, please unsubscribe to PTA "News You Choose" using the link at the bottom of this bulletin. 

Hunt Valley ES News You Choose official school communication is sent separately on Fridays with information from HVES Administration. 

                            Click here to get to the Hunt Valley website.

  PTA Important Dates

December 2 - 12, 2024

Winter Food Drive Sign Up 

December 2 - 13, 2024

Whiteboard Monetary Donation Drive on Givebacks 

December 5, 2024

Day 1 - Hospitality Committee organized a homemade Taco Bar Luncheon for all school staff

Tuesday, December 10, 2024

100% VIRTUAL PTA Meeting (via Google Meet), 7pm - 8pm

December 11, 2024

Day 2 - Hospitality Committee organized a Massage Day for school staff (massage therapists will be on-site offering 10 minute chair massages)

December 16, 2024

Day 3 - PTA Hospitality Committee organized a Sweet Shoppe for all school staff

 

A Message from the PTA President

Dear Hunt Valley Families,

Hope you all had a nice Thanksgiving break. Thank you to everyone who donated to the School Staff Taco Bar Luncheon being held tomorrow, Thursday, Dec 5 in the teacher’s lounge. And a huge thank you to our hospitality committee for organizing this event coordinating the cooking, drop offs, set up, and delivery. It’ll be quite delicious, I’m sure! 

The Reflections Contest has concluded, and we’ve received an amazing 25 entries! The judges will be hard at work to evaluate the submitted artwork and the winners will be determined this week. Then, the winners will advance and compete at the County level Reflections Program. Thank you to our wonderful Coordinator, Daphne Huber, and the judges for volunteering in taking on this important role.

December 2, 2024, was National Special Education Day. Our wonderful PTA Hospitality committee put together a treat bag for each staff member that support our students with special needs which is about 40+ amazing people! Each bag was delivered to the teacher mailboxes. The SPED team ranges from the multi-disciplinary, learning disability, autism, counselors, speech and reading specialists, adaptive PE, PT, OT, PSL, psychologists, behavioral coaches, and all in between. Thank you for all you do for the children each and every day!

 

If you need anything, please reach out to [email protected] or [email protected].

Sincerely,

Iris Stoyanov

Hunt Valley PTA President ​​

Teacher and Staff Appreciation Donations

Stock the Teacher's Lounge: The Hospitality Committee is collecting donations to stock the Teacher's Lounge for our wonderful staff. Please see the SignUp Genius for items needed.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E0D44ADAB2DABFE3-53314528-teachers

3 Days of December Cheer:

The Hospitality Committee has volunteered to cover 3 days of the Administration's 15 Days of December cheer!

On December 5, we will be hosting a homemade Taco luncheon. Our committee will be making the meat for tacos, but we need your help with the rest of the fixings. Please see the Sign Up Genius for items needed.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E0D44ADAB2DABFE3-53366628-taco

On December 11, we will be providing mini-massage sessions for the staff. We will be hiring massage therapists to set up a “spa-like” ambiance in Room 113 for the day to treat the teachers and staff for all the amazing and hard work they do for the students each and everyday. No donations needed.

On December 16, we will be hosting the 3rd annual Sweet Shoppe, and we need bakers! Please see the Sign Up Genius for information.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E0D44ADAB2DABFE3-53427713-2024

Save the Date: Hunt Valley Winter Food Drive (Dec 2-12, 2024) Save the Date: Whiteboard Donation Drive (Dec 2-13, 2024)

 

For checks, please make it payable to Hunt Valley Elementary School PTA with memo line: Whiteboards. You can turn it in to the teacher or contact [email protected] to arrange pick-up.

Here’s the donation link on Givebacks using a credit card: https://huntvalleypta.givebacks.com/store/items/1135063

Winter Session Afterschool Program Classes Enrollment Open

MONDAY Kaizen Karate ($115/child) | 4:15pm - 5:15pm | (8 weeks)             

Grades K - 6 | Dates: Jan 13 - March 03 (no class Jan 20, Feb 10, 17, Mar 10)

This popular class is a disciplined introduction to sport. Your child will learn the beautiful art of karate while gaining safety and defensive skills in a respectful environment.

Register by Jan 3rd: http://www.kaizenfitnessusa.com/

MONDAY Ethereal free thinkers ($120/child) 4:15 pm - 5:15 pm | (6 weeks)

Grades 5 and 6 | Dates: Jan 13 - March 17 (no classes Jan 20, Feb 10, 17, Mar 10)

In this class students will express emotions that are difficult to describe in other ways. This will process and communicate their thoughts and feelings. They will build literacy skills like reading comprehension, phonemic awareness, and storytelling.

Register by Jan 3rd: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfX-p8XiupKRX-27wAROKCMSP-EPW_qYwgRlvJIp8OzVeFtlw/viewform

TUESDAY Pickleball ($180/child) | 4:15pm - 5:15pm | (9 weeks)     

Grade K – 6 | Dates: Jan14 – March 11 (no missed days)

TGA's action-packed pickleball enrichment programs are perfect for beginners and more experienced students to develop their skills and have fun learning about the sport in a safe and supportive environment.

Register by Jan 3rd : https://registration.youthathletesunited.com/events/spotlight/tgat-hunt-valley-elementary-school-wednesday-4-15-pm-y-0-m-y-m

TUESDAY Comic Crafters ($193/child) 4:15 pm - 5:15 pm | (9 weeks)

Grades 3 - 4 | Dates: (Jan 14 - March 11) (no missed days)

Students will share their real- world experience as comic creators to outline exactly what it takes to successfully tell stories in a graphic format. This will develop composition techniques through visual and verbal connection. This program will also enrich reading, writing and thinking ability.

Register by Jan 3rd : https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScYmpgqP6Qn5NHjFpLdtfr4zI7hMCXE3GPf639nglBUjqJz-A/viewform?usp=sf_link

WEDNESDAY Golf ($250/child)| 4:15pm - 5:15pm | (10 weeks)

Grade K – 6 |Dates: Jan 15 – March 12 (no class on Jan 29)

TGA's action-packed golf enrichment programs are perfect for beginners and more experienced students to develop their skills and have fun learning about the sport in a safe and supportive environment.

Register by Jan 3rd: https://registration.youthathletesunited.com/events/spotlight/tgag-hunt-valley-elementary-school-tuesday-4-15-pm-y-0-m-y-0-m

WEDNESDAY CodeFuture ($60/child) | 4:15pm - 5:15pm | (9 weeks)

Grades 3 - 6 | Dates: Jan 15 - March 12 (no class on Jan 29)

CodeFuture is a volunteer nonprofit run by students from TJHSST, aims to introduce coding to elementary school students through affordable workshops.

Register by Jan 3rd :  https://huntvalleypta.givebacks.com/store?limit=21&live=true

THURSDAY Kids In Motion ($154/child) | 4:15pm - 5:15pm (10 weeks)

Grades K - 3 | Dates: Jan 16 - March 13 (no missed classes)

This is a dance fitness class that uses kid friendly songs, choreography, and dance games. This class helps children make friends, get active after school, and love dance fitness!

Register by Jan 3rd: https://www.novakidsinmotion.com/registration/

                                                                                                                                                         

FRIDAY  Magnus Chess ($168/child) | 4:15pm - 5:15pm (8 weeks)

Grades K - 6 | Dates: Jan 17 - March 7 (no missed classes )

Fun is the name of the game, but Magnus Chess Academy also sneaks in a bit of critical thinking, sportsmanship, and patience into the chess club!

Register by Jan 3rd: www.chessacademy.com

FRIDAY Soccer (135$/child) | 4:15 – 5:15 pm (8 weeks)

Grades K - 6 | Dates: Jan 17 - March 7 (no missed classes)

BBA mission is to passionately serve students, parents, and schools nationwide. They are dedicated to enhancing the educational experience by offering a diverse range of enrichment programs for schools throughout the country.

Register by Jan 3rd: https://bbaafterschool.leagueapps.com/events/4448587-hunt-valley-elementary-soccer-spring-2025

Morning Session

Lango was established on the belief that every American child should learn a second language. Lango has created a program that would teach kids new languages in a way that they would love through movement, playacting, art and basic conversations.

TUESDAY Lango ($170/child) | 8:15 am – 9:05 am (9 weeks)

Grade K – 2 | Dates: Jan 17 – March 14 (no missed classes)

Register by Jan 3rd: https://huntvalleypta.givebacks.com/store?limit=21&live=true

FRIDAY Lango ($170) | 8:15am - 9:05 am (9 weeks)

Grade 3 -6 | Dates: Jan 14 – March 11 (no missed classes)

Register by Jan 3rd: https://huntvalleypta.givebacks.com/store?limit=21&live=true

Hunt Valley 2nd Annual Scripps Spelling Bee

Register your child for the Scripps National Spelling Bee at Hunt Valley! The 2025 Hunt Valley Scripps Spelling Bee is open to Kindergarten through 6th grade students and will be held at Hunt Valley Cafeteria on Friday, February 28, 2025, 6:00–8:00 p.m.

Registration for the Hunt Valley Bee is open now! Enroll here: https://forms.gle/nVwaKyHUjTukgpkf9          

All interested students must register in advance for the Bee and will receive a word study list. The winner will advance to the Fairfax County Spelling Bee.

Questions: Email [email protected]

Final day of registrations is Friday Jan. 31, 2025.

Join the PTA!

PTA memberships are available for purchase in our online store only for $10! A digital PTA member/student directory is included in the membership price. Teachers and Staff get a $5 discount off in-person spirit wear purchases.

Remember, your PTA membership goes to support students and staff in many ways! Email [email protected] with questions.

School Directory Information: COMING SOON!

Hunt Valley Teacher and Staff Favorites List Available Now!

The PTA has been working behind the scenes to collect teacher and staff favorites to make it easier for those looking for gift ideas to show appreciation for our amazing teachers and staff. We've collected a list of their favorite things—whether it's a preferred snack, drink, or even a favorite color! These little insights can help you personalize your gifts and make them extra special. The list can be found on our PTA Website: https://hvpta.ptboard.com/school/cm?mid=7056

Thank you for your continued support and generosity!

*Please note: This list only includes staff that have completed the survey.

General Information & Communication Volunteer Opportunities

We depend on our parent volunteers!

Please use the QR code below or reach out to our PTA Volunteer Coordinator, Sarah Tinsley, at [email protected] to join the mailing list for volunteers. 

 https://forms.gle/ifKFuqzzrwqQbPN17

The following positions are still open for the 2024-2025 school year. You do not have to do it alone. Grab a friend and be a powerful team with the help of a PTA Board Member as your Champion:

●      Spring 2025 Book Fair Coordinator (March 17-21, 2025)

●      Teacher/Staff Appreciation Week (May 5-9, 2025)

●      Spring Fling (May 16, 2025)

PTA Website!

Check out our new PTA website if you haven’t done so already. For those that need it, the school code is: KB63B8. It is designed to make staying up-to-date with latest events and involved easier than ever! Our site features a user-friendly interface with everything you mostly need in one place: 

●      Event Calendar: Sync PTA events and FCPS holidays directly to your personal calendar so you never miss out.

●      Volunteer Sign-Ups: Easily find and sign up for volunteer opportunities that fit your schedule.

●      Student Directory (coming soon): Connect with other families and classmates through our secure online student directory in which only paid members have access, making it easy to arrange playdates, birthday party invitations, study groups, or just stay in touch.

●      Announcements: Stay updated with the latest news and important information from the PTA.

Account creation is required to access full features. Visit our new website today (https://hvpta.ptboard.com/) and explore how we’re making it simpler for families to engage and support our school community! 

If you are interested in learning more, please reach out to [email protected].

Official Hunt Valley PTA Facebook Group

Join the Hunt Valley PTA Facebook Group to stay updated on the latest events, volunteer opportunities, important announcements, and shoutouts celebrating amazing moments. Our group is a space for parents, teachers, and staff to connect, collaborate, and support each other in creating the best learning environment for our students. Follow us for real-time updates, tips, and ways to get involved in making our school community even better! 

Hunt Valley Elementary Parents Facebook Group

You are invited to join the unofficial Facebook group for the Hunt Valley community, Hunt Valley Elementary Parents. Please note that anyone who requests to join, including someone added by an existing group member, must answer the membership questions and check the box indicating agreement to abide by the group rules. If your membership has not been approved, this is likely why; check your Facebook messages (you may have to dig around for the section for messages from non-friends) for assistance from an admin. Please note that this group is not sponsored by the school or the PTA!

PTA Loves Our Local Business Sponsors!

The PTA is proud to announce that we have received a new sponsor. They want to support the PTA, Hunt Valley Elementary, and the Hunt Valley Community. Our newest sponsors include:

●      Peraspori - If you love and appreciate real, pure cold pressed extra virgin olive oil and olives, shop at Peraspori that get it shipped directly from Greece to Virginia. They are also sold in a local shop in Bon Air, VA. If you are passing by, stop by and support.

●      Brian Huber Realtor, Samson Properties - Contact Brian Huber if you are in the market to buy or sell a home. He is an experienced Realtor and Certified Negotiation Expert (CNE). His average days on the market is 9 days and for 98% of list price.

Thank you for your continued support!

●      Arceli Brown from State Farm - Contact Arceli Brown for your home, auto or any insurance needs.

●      Waverly Der from Elite M.A. Burke - Contact Waverly Der, the Program Director, if you’re interested in having your kids learn lasting life skills through martial arts. They teach self-confidence, respect & manners, goal-setting skills, self-defense skills, strength & fitness. Also check out their afterschool program at their facility.

●      Dianna Carr from Be Well Health Coaching - Contact Dianna Carr if you are interested in having a health coach, personal trainer, learn about nutrition and strategies to become a better, healthier version of you.

For more information on each of the sponsors, you can find their marketing material on the PTA Website at https://hvpta.ptboard.com/school/cm?mid=6805.

Help us find more business sponsors to support the PTA

As a Hunt Valley PTA Sponsor, for only $250, the contribution will directly benefit our students and school community, helping us continue to provide enriching experiences for everyone. The business will receive the following benefits:

●      Recognition in Our Weekly Newsletter

●      Acknowledgment at Monthly PTA Meetings

●      Visibility and Invitation to All PTA Sponsored Community Events

●      Tax Deduction

Our goal is to receive 10 corporate sponsorships this year. Help us achieve our goal! If you are interested in finding sponsors or becoming a sponsor and supporting the Hunt Valley PTA, please contact us at [email protected]  

For more info, visit the Hunt Valley Elementary School PTA website

If you have comments or suggestions for this newsletter, email [email protected]

7107 Sydenstricker Rd., Springfield, VA 22152  |  Phone: 703.913.8800

Attendance: 703.913.8820 | Web | Twitter | Facebook