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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

Monday - Friday, September 23 - 27

Fall Book Fair is next week! See details below.

Friday, September 27

Fall Festival, 5:30pm-8:30pm (Hunt Valley Fields) 

Tuesday, October 8, 2024

Hybrid PTA Meeting (in person and via Google Meet), 7pm - 8pm

 Monday, October 21, 2024

Monday 3-Hour Early Release

 Friday, October 25, 2024

Trunk or Treat! More details to follow. Stay tuned!

A Message from the PTA President

Dear Hunt Valley Families,

Thank you to everyone who came out to the outdoor Dinner and Movie Night!  We had perfect weather and a great crowd. We hope everyone enjoyed themselves, had some free popcorn, along with pizza and snacks for the evening. 

 

We had our exciting first PTA meeting of the year on Tuesday, Sept 17. There was a great turnout mixed with administration, teachers, parents, and even students :). We discussed the budget for the year, the goals, upcoming events, and volunteering opportunities and committees that need chairs/coordinators. For those that missed it, the meeting slides, approved FY25 budget, and meeting minutes will be posted on the PTA Website here: hvpta.ptboard.com/activity no later than Tuesday, Sept 24. 

Next week is our Fall Book Fair Sept 23 - 27 in the school library. This Fall Book Fair is the first since the pandemic and it’ll be so much fun for the students coming through. We have partnered again with a local business, Bookworm Central, and we’re excited to bring you an amazing selection of books from different publishers, minimal toys that are academic focused such as puzzles, and much more! Also, all of your purchases will be tax-free! We are in need of many volunteers to make this event successful. Please consider signing up: https://hvpta.ptboard.com/sgnvw?signup

We also have our Fall Festival Neon Dance Party next week, Sept 27 from 5:30pm-8:30pm at the Hunt Valley School Grounds. Wristbands are $10 in advance and $15 at the door. Adults and children under the age of 3 are free.  The wristbands provide access to unlimited carnival games, trackless train express with a dedicated driver, 40’ obstacle course, live DJ, food trucks and much more! Get your wristbands here: https://huntvalleypta.givebacks.com/store/items/1101227

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

Sincerely,

Iris Stoyanov

Hunt Valley PTA President ​​

Fall 2024 Book Fair is Next Week!

The Hunt Valley PTA is excited to host our first Fall Book Fair the week of September 23rd! You should be receiving the following flyers in your kid’s take home folders this week. The flyers explain how to set up an e-wallet account for your child(ren) as we are not accepting cash during student buying hours. (The e-wallet system has been improved since last spring’s book fair.) There’s also a volunteer sign up to help staff the book fair. We are still in need of many volunteers to make this event successful. Please consider signing up.

Volunteer sign-up: https://hvpta.ptboard.com/sgnvw?signup

To set-up or update your e-Wallet account: https://www.bookwormbmaps.com/eWallet/ 

For detailed instructions with screenshots on e-wallet set-up: https://tinyurl.com/bddvr3be

If you have any questions, please reach out to our incredible book fair coordinator, Anna Taleysnik-Mehta, at [email protected].

Fall Festival Neon Dance Party on Friday,  Sept 27, 2024 

The Hunt Valley PTA is excited to host our Fall Festival Neon Dance Party 5:30pm - 8:30pm on school grounds. There will be a train express with a conductor, a big 22’ inflatable slide, a 40’ inflatable monster obstacle course, unlimited access to carnival games with prizes and much more.  There will be a live DJ, candy walk, and the night will end with a neon dance party with black lights so wear your neon spirit wear and glow the night away.

Wristbands are $10 if purchased in advance on Givebacks. Wristbands will also be available onsite for $15. We have improved our check-in process for folks that buy advanced wristbands. Food trucks will be on site and pizza/concessions will also be available for purchase by the slice. Glowsticks will be provided for purchase also.

To purchase your wristbands, please visit Givebacks:

https://huntvalleypta.givebacks.com/store/items/1101227

Funds from this event will go back to the PTA and help support educational enrichment opportunities for our students and offer important and valued experiences. The PTA cannot function without the help of parents and we can't wait to see you there!

Adult Volunteer sign-up: https://hvpta.ptboard.com/sgnvw?signup

If you have any questions, please reach out to Iris Stoyanov at [email protected].

Reflections 2024/2025: Accepting Imperfection

 

We are excited to invite you to explore our 2024-2025 Reflections theme, “Accepting Imperfection” at PTA.org/Reflections! Get inspired for a new Reflections program and show your excitement using the tag #PTAReflections. Students submit their original works of art in any or all of the available arts categories and participate in the appropriate division for their grade: Primary (Pre-K–Grade 2), Intermediate (Grades 3–5), Middle (Grades 6–8), Accessible Arts (all grades welcome). More information to follow for signups, with a Dropbox for artwork.

PTA Loves Our Local Sponsors!

The PTA is proud to announce that we have received two corporate sponsorships. They want to support the PTA, Hunt Valley Elementary, and the Hunt Valley Community. Our amazing sponsors include Arceli Brown from State Farm and Elite M.A. Burke.

Do you own a business or know someone that does and want to support our PTA?

For only $250, your contribution will directly benefit our students and school community, helping us continue to provide enriching experiences for everyone. As a Hunt Valley PTA Sponsor, your 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 becoming a sponsor and supporting the Hunt Valley PTA, please contact us at [email protected]  

School Directory Information - COMING SOON!

Planning a birthday party or playdate? You can find students and parents by name, grade, or class! The directory is available to current PTA members at https://hvpta.ptboard.com/prf/directory. 

To access the directory, log in to HVPTA.PTBoard.com and click on Student Directory on the left menu. If you don’t have an account yet, follow the instructions under “Sign Up” on the top right corner to set up your profile. For those that need it, the school code is: KB63B8

All students are included in the directory unless they have opted out. If you prefer not to be listed in the directory, you may log in to your profile to adjust your visibility settings.

Not a PTA member yet? Join today!

For more information contact [email protected]

Join the PTA!

Do you remember the membership drive announced at Open House? The classroom with the highest percentage of parent sign ups by Friday, September 27 will win a class party of their choice! So far, we have a tight race between a few classes. The classroom status will be shared at the PTA meeting on Sept 17. 

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. Thank you for your support!

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 and Staff Holiday Sweet Shoppe (timeframe: December 2024)

●      Winter Food Drive Coordinator (December 1-16, 2024)

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

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

●      Spring Fling (May 16, 2025)

●      Outreach/Community Service Chair (ongoing)

●      School Supplies Coordinator for 2025-2026

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

*New* 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!  

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!

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

Happy Friday Hunt Valley Families,

It was great to see so many families at the Fun Run on Saturday! We always love this kick-off event at the beginning of the school year to bring together our school and community. Thank you to the PTA for organizing and "running" such an awesome event!

We have a lot of events over the next week here at Hunt Valley. Tonight, we have our outdoor dinner and movie night on the field. Don't forget to dress warmly and bring a blanket. Monday, September 16th is our first three-hour early release. Families of students that will be staying at Hunt Valley received additional information via eNotify. If you have any questions, please reach out to administration. Tuesday, September 17th, is our first PTA meeting of the year. There are in-person and online options for the meeting and we would love to have more families attend and get involved in the PTA this school year. Wednesday, September 18th is our Back to School Night. This is a time for families to meet the teachers, get information about the school year and learn about reading and math instruction. This event is for adults only so please coordinate childcare as there is no childcare provided at the school. 

We look forward to seeing everyone this evening at the outdoor movie night.

Sincerely,

Keieownna Hightower, Principal

Chrissy Gibbs, Assistant Principal

Eric Kopacz, Assistant Principal

🍎 Make Every Day Count! The Importance of Attendance

As you plan upcoming trips and other family events, please remember the importance of sending your child to school every day. Review the FCPS School Year Calendar and try to plan any time away during breaks from school. 

Children who show up for school regularly develop fundamental reading and math skills while building a habit of good attendance that will carry them into college and careers. Research shows that children who were chronically absent (missing 18 days or more) in kindergarten and first grade were far less likely to read proficiently at the end of third grade.

Learn how families can help form good attendance habits.

Blue Star Welcome Week

Every year, approximately 600,000 military-connected families relocate. Most of these families move to new duty stations, while some transition out of the military and others transition in. Most of these moves take place over the summer, and Fairfax County Public Schools is committed to ensuring our military families feel welcomed and a sense of belonging to their local community. 

Blue Star Welcome Week is an opportunity for our community to welcome our military-connected families and show them our appreciation for their service and sacrifices. Throughout the week, FCPS will help ease their transition through events, messages, actions of welcome, and opportunities to make meaningful connections. Please help us welcome our military families during Blue Star Welcome Week, September 21 - September 29, 2024, and throughout the year! #BlueStarWelcomeWeekFCPS 

Community Conversations

🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Register Today for a Community Conversation! 

Fairfax County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid will host a series of Community Conversations this fall. She invites you to share your thoughts and ask questions. 

The next event is scheduled for Monday, September 23, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. at Newington Forest Elementary School. Click on the date to register. Childcare and language interpretation services will be provided.

🩹 Immunization Requirements 

Please check with your health care provider as soon as possible to make sure your child is up to date on the immunizations required by the state of Virginia. Starting Monday, September 30, students who have not provided proof of immunization will not be allowed to attend school. 

You may check your child’s immunization compliance and submit their immunization record in SIS ParentVUE. Records may also be delivered to your school’s front office. 

Alternative immunization documents (below) may also be provided to your school’s front office, but they may not be uploaded in ParentVUE:  

• A health care provider’s written statement specifying all administered immunizations.
• A health care provider’s written statement of a permanent or temporary medical exemption.
• A notarized Religious Exemption form objecting to the administration of immunizations due to conflicts with their religious tenets or practices.

Find more information on immunizations. 

FCPS Cell Phone Policy

📵 Phones Down, Engagement Up: FCPS Cell Phone Policy Keeping cell phones off during the school day helps students focus and learn. It also boosts positive social behavior. Review FCPS’ cell phone expectations by grade level with your child and help keep our classrooms free of distractions! If you need to reach your child during the school day, please call our 703-913-8800.  

Grades K-6

• Phones must be silenced and in backpacks for the duration of the school day. Cell phones may be used on campus before and after school only.
• Smart watches that serve a dual purpose may be worn, but the phone features (texting, Internet viewing, and calls) are to be off when phone use is prohibited.
• Students are prohibited from using phones, tablets, and other mobile devices in restrooms and locker rooms, unless there is a medical necessity or emergency.
• With the approval of the principal or their designee, teachers may allow usage of cell phones for instructional activities where they are the most appropriate tool; however, one-to-one FCPS devices should meet most needs.

Annual Notice of Survey, Records, Curriculum, Privacy, and Related Rights

Fairfax County Public Schools wants all parents and caregivers to understand its policies regarding surveys, records, curriculum, privacy, and related rights.

In its Annual Notice of Survey, Records, Curriculum, Privacy, and Related Rights and Opt-Out Forms (Annual Notice), FCPS provides explanations of the rights listed above as well as forms that may be used to exercise opt-out choices. Two versions of the Annual Notice are available: a grades K-8 version and a grades 9-12 version. Parents/caregivers with children at different grade levels should read each applicable version of the Annual Notice, because the notices and opt-out rights vary depending on the student’s grade level.

Get more information and view the 2024-25 Opt-Out Booklets.

Mark Your Calendar

September 16--3-hour Early Release @ 1:05 pm

September 17--PTA meeting @ 7:00 pm

September 18--Back to School Night

September 21-29--Blue Star Welcome Week

October 3--Rosh Hashanah Holiday

October 4--Teacher Workday NO SCHOOL for students

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, September 13

Hunt Valley Outdoor Dinner & Movie Night, 6:30pm - 9:30pm (Hunt Valley Fields)

Tuesday, September 17

Hybrid PTA Meeting (in person and via Google Meet), 7pm - 8pm

Wednesday, September 18

Back to School Night (Last Name A-K), 6pm - 6:45pm | (Last Name L-Z), 7pm - 7:45pm **SPIRIT WEAR AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE **

Monday - Friday, September 23 - 27

Fall Book Fair is coming! See details below.

Friday, September 27

Fall Festival, 5:30pm-8:30pm (Hunt Valley Fields)

A Message from the PTA President

Dear Hunt Valley Families,

Thank you to everyone who came out to the Fall Fun Run! We hope everyone enjoyed themselves, had a moment to check out the PTA Spirit Wear table, our event supporters, and got a pic with Hamilton the Hawk! 

 

Friday September 13 from 5:30–9:30 we'll be having our FIRST outdoor dinner and movie night. Food is available for purchase. For $5, you can get a pizza slice, drink, and candy. All payment methods are accepted. Don’t forget to bring your blankets, chairs, and hoodies. We are still in need of volunteers in order to make this event successful. Volunteers get coupons for free concessions. Please sign up here for shifts.

There are still spots open for the afterschool programs. Friday, Sept 13 is the last day to register, except for Kids in Motion, it is Sept 20. 

●      Monday - Kaizen Karate

●      Tuesday - RunFit Kidz

●      Wednesday - Code Future

●      Thursday - Kids in Motion

●      Friday - Chess Academy

If you have any questions about the afterschool programs, please reach out to Anusilan Sherpa ([email protected])

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

Sincerely,

Iris Stoyanov

Hunt Valley PTA President ​​

Fun Run Recap

Thanks to everyone who came out to support the annual Hunt Valley Fun Run on Saturday, September 7th. Over 60 Hunt Valley Hawks plus their families took on the 0.5 mile and 1 mile runs. There were nothing but smiles as each runner crossed the finish line to receive their medal and a high five from our very own Hamilton the Hawk! Special thanks to all of our teachers, staff, administrators, WSHS volunteers, PTA, and event supporters - Be Well Health Coaching, Himchari Martial Arts, Seasonal Roots, Big Blue Swim School, and Elite Martial Arts - Burke. As a school community we donated 163 pounds of non-perishable food and pantry items to ECHO.

Save the Date for the upcoming Pyramid Challenge on Saturday, November 16th. More details to come!

Hunt Valley Outdoor Pizza and Movie Night

SAVE THE DATE: September 13th, 8:15–9:30pm

Who: This event is open to all Hunt Valley students, families, and staff. Students must be chaperoned at all times—this is not a drop-off event.

What: Students, staff, and family members can enjoy an outdoor movie night with free popcorn. Pizza and concessions (drinks/snacks) will be available for purchase (while supplies last). We will also have awesome Hunt Valley spirit wear for sale if you missed us at Open House. Then head to the field to watch Kung Fu Panda 4! 

When: Friday, September 13th from 6:30 to 9:30pm. Pizza will be served starting at 6:30pm, and the movie will begin at 7:30pm. 

Volunteer Perk: If you are volunteering at this event, you get TWO FREE concession items as our thank you. Sign up here on our new PTA website (click here).

Don’t forget to bring chairs, blankets and hoodies. Please dress warmly!

Please note that the playground, baseball field, and the rest of the soccer field will be closed once the movie begins!

Fall 2024 Book Fair is Coming!

 The Hunt Valley PTA is excited to host our first Fall Book Fair the week of September 23rd! We are once again partnering with local business Bookworm Central, who brings a wonderful variety of books and educational materials for our book fairs and are looking forward to getting some great books to the Hunt Valley community.

Information on classroom visit times, before and after-school family shopping hours and directions on setting up e-Wallets for purchasing will be coming to teachers and parents shortly but in the meantime, we need many volunteers to make the Book Fair a success. Please visit the sign up on our PTA Website: https://tinyurl.com/4k3pzxf2 or scan the QR code below to volunteer. Additional information can be found on the sign-up page. We appreciate your help!

If you have any questions, please reach out to our book fair coordinator, Anna Taleysnik-Mehta, at [email protected]

Reflections 2024/2025: Accepting Imperfection

 

We are excited to invite you to explore our 2024-2025 Reflections theme, “Accepting Imperfection” at PTA.org/Reflections! Get inspired for a new Reflections program and show your excitement using the tag #PTAReflections. Students submit their original works of art in any or all of the available arts categories and participate in the appropriate division for their grade: Primary (Pre-K–Grade 2), Intermediate (Grades 3–5), Middle (Grades 6–8), Accessible Arts (all grades welcome). More information to follow for signups, with a Dropbox for artwork.

Do you own a business or know someone that does and want to support our PTA?

For only $250, your contribution will directly benefit our students and school community, helping us continue to provide enriching experiences for everyone. As a Hunt Valley PTA Sponsor, your 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 becoming a sponsor and supporting the Hunt Valley PTA, please contact us at [email protected].

School Directory Information - COMING SOON!

Planning a birthday party or playdate? You can find students and parents by name, grade, or class! The directory is available to current PTA members at https://hvpta.ptboard.com/prf/directory. 

To access the directory, log in to HVPTA.PTBoard.com and click on Student Directory on the left menu. If you don’t have an account yet, follow the instructions under “Sign Up” on the top right corner to set up your profile. For those that need it, the school code is: KB63B8

All students are included in the directory unless they have opted out. If you prefer not to be listed in the directory, you may log in to your profile to adjust your visibility settings.

Not a PTA member yet? Join today!

For more information contact [email protected]

Join the PTA!

Do you remember the membership drive announced at Open House? The classroom with the highest percentage of parent sign ups by Friday, September 27 will win a class party of their choice! So far, we have a tight race between a few classes. The classroom status will be shared at the PTA meeting on Sept 17. 

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. Thank you for your support!

General Information & Communication Volunteer Opportunities

We depend on our parent volunteers!

 

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:

School Supplies Coordinator: Have you wondered where the back-to-school school supply kits come from? Got a shopaholic side for school supplies? Thank you to Brenda Langone for her service of being the PTA’s school supply kit coordinator for 9 years since 2015! This is your chance to become our next School Supplies Kit Coordinator! Coordinate with the vendor and school to get the supply list ensuring every kid starts the year with the right tools. If organizing colorful chaos sounds like your kind of fun, we need your skills to make back-to-school a breeze! The PTA is searching for a new coordinator and shadowing opportunities are provided. 

Spring 2025 Book Fair Coordinator: Have a love for reading and want to put your organization with spreadsheets and classroom signs up to the test? Book Fair Coordinator is the role for you! Our lovely PTA book fair coordinator of 3 years, Anna Taleysnik-Mehta, will be graduating this year as her daughter moves on to Irving and the PTA is searching for a new book fair coordinator. Training and shadowing opportunities of the fall book fair are included. We can get you on board as soon as you are available. 

Teacher/Staff Appreciation & Hospitality: Are you always the hostess with the most-est?  Hospitality would be a perfect fit for you. Take time throughout the year to let our staff and teachers feel loved and appreciated.

Outreach/Community Service Chair: Do you have a knack for bringing people together, organizing events, and spreading good vibes like confetti? If you're passionate about making a difference, love meeting new people, and can handle a clipboard with style, we need you!

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

*New* 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!  

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!

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.

 

Our 2nd grade students worked together to build index card towers in STEAM. 

A Message from our Administrators

Happy Friday Hunt Valley Families,

We hope that everyone enjoyed the long weekend and the cooler temperatures! Our students and staff have enjoyed the nice weather out at recess. 

Please join us tomorrow for our Annual Fun Run hosted by the PTA on the field. Check-in begins at 8:15 am. There will be a half-mile and one-mile run. This is a great event to meet or reconnect with families from the neighborhood. We hope to see you there!

If you have not filled out the survey form for Early Release Mondays, we are asking that you do that today! We need this information to plan for our first early release which is Monday, September 16th. Here is the link: https://forms.gle/2CdzHtAGZeoJrDVw5 

We look forward to seeing everyone tomorrow at the Fun Run!

Sincerely,

Keieownna Hightower, Principal

Chrissy Gibbs, Assistant Principal

Eric Kopacz, Assistant Principal

Scan the QR Code or use this Registration Form Link

🍎 Make Every Day Count! The Importance of Attendance

As you plan upcoming trips and other family events, please remember the importance of sending your child to school every day. Review the FCPS School Year Calendar and try to plan any time away during breaks from school. 

Children who show up for school regularly develop fundamental reading and math skills while building a habit of good attendance that will carry them into college and careers. Research shows that children who were chronically absent (missing 18 days or more) in kindergarten and first grade were far less likely to read proficiently at the end of third grade.

Learn how families can help form good attendance habits.

Blue Star Welcome Week

Every year, approximately 600,000 military-connected families relocate. Most of these families move to new duty stations, while some transition out of the military and others transition in. Most of these moves take place over the summer, and Fairfax County Public Schools is committed to ensuring our military families feel welcomed and a sense of belonging to their local community. 

Blue Star Welcome Week is an opportunity for our community to welcome our military-connected families and show them our appreciation for their service and sacrifices. Throughout the week, FCPS will help ease their transition through events, messages, actions of welcome, and opportunities to make meaningful connections. Please help us welcome our military families during Blue Star Welcome Week, September 21 - September 29, 2024, and throughout the year! #BlueStarWelcomeWeekFCPS 

🩹 Immunization Requirements 

Please check with your health care provider as soon as possible to make sure your child is up to date on the immunizations required by the state of Virginia. Starting Monday, September 30, students who have not provided proof of immunization will not be allowed to attend school. 

You may check your child’s immunization compliance and submit their immunization record in SIS ParentVUE. Records may also be delivered to your school’s front office. 

Alternative immunization documents (below) may also be provided to your school’s front office, but they may not be uploaded in ParentVUE:  

• A health care provider’s written statement specifying all administered immunizations.
• A health care provider’s written statement of a permanent or temporary medical exemption.
• A notarized Religious Exemption form objecting to the administration of immunizations due to conflicts with their religious tenets or practices.

Find more information on immunizations. 

FCPS Cell Phone Policy

📵 Phones Down, Engagement Up: FCPS Cell Phone Policy Keeping cell phones off during the school day helps students focus and learn. It also boosts positive social behavior. Review FCPS’ cell phone expectations by grade level with your child and help keep our classrooms free of distractions! If you need to reach your child during the school day, please call our 703-913-8800.  

Grades K-6

• Phones must be silenced and in backpacks for the duration of the school day. Cell phones may be used on campus before and after school only.
• Smart watches that serve a dual purpose may be worn, but the phone features (texting, Internet viewing, and calls) are to be off when phone use is prohibited.
• Students are prohibited from using phones, tablets, and other mobile devices in restrooms and locker rooms, unless there is a medical necessity or emergency.
• With the approval of the principal or their designee, teachers may allow usage of cell phones for instructional activities where they are the most appropriate tool; however, one-to-one FCPS devices should meet most needs.

Annual Notice of Survey, Records, Curriculum, Privacy, and Related Rights

Fairfax County Public Schools wants all parents and caregivers to understand its policies regarding surveys, records, curriculum, privacy, and related rights.

In its Annual Notice of Survey, Records, Curriculum, Privacy, and Related Rights and Opt-Out Forms (Annual Notice), FCPS provides explanations of the rights listed above as well as forms that may be used to exercise opt-out choices. Two versions of the Annual Notice are available: a grades K-8 version and a grades 9-12 version. Parents/caregivers with children at different grade levels should read each applicable version of the Annual Notice, because the notices and opt-out rights vary depending on the student’s grade level.

Get more information and view the 2024-25 Opt-Out Booklets.

Mark Your Calendar

September 16--3-hour Early Release @ 1:05 pm

September 18--Back to School Night

September 21-29--Blue Star Welcome Week

October 3--Rosh Hashanah Holiday

October 4--Teacher Workday NO SCHOOL for students

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

Saturday, September 7

Fall Fun Run, 8:15am - 9:45am (Hunt Valley School Grounds and Fields)

Friday, September 13

Hunt Valley Outdoor Dinner & Movie Night, 6:30pm - 9:30pm (Hunt Valley Fields)

Tuesday, September 17

Hybrid PTA Meeting (in person and via Google Meet), 7pm - 8pm

Wednesday, September 18

Back to School Night (Last Name A-K), 6pm - 6:45pm | (Last Name L-Z), 7pm - 7:45pm **SPIRIT WEAR AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE **

Monday - Friday, September 23 - 27

Fall Book Fair, more details to come.

Friday, September 27

Fall Festival, 5:30pm-8:30pm (Hunt Valley Fields)

A Message from the PTA President

Dear Hunt Valley Families,

Despite the rain, I hope you all enjoyed your first long weekend of the year! We are excited to host our first event in three days! Join us for a morning of fun, fitness, and friendship at our Fall Fun Run! Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking for a fun way to get moving, this event is for everyone! Come out, enjoy the fresh air, and let’s boost our mental and physical health together!  We’re also selling spirit wear and got a new shipment of youth sizes. So if you weren’t able to get the size you needed, stop by the table and check it out. Limited quantities available.

Friday September 13 from 5:30–9:30 we'll be having our outdoor movie night. We are looking for 1–2 additional volunteers to run the concessions and clean up afterwards. Please reach out if you're able to help.

Make sure to look through your take home folders for the September Event Calendar (great for taping on fridges), and the after school programs flyer. Please note: there has been a change to the Thursday program. The Overtime Athletics program has been canceled. The alternative program is Kids in Motion. The programs include the following (grade-dependent):

●      Monday - Kaizen Karate

●      Tuesday - RunFit Kidz

●      Wednesday - Code Future

●      Thursday - Kids in Motion

●      Friday - Chess Academy

We're still in the process of posting our calendar events to both the HV PTA website (hvpta.ptboard.com) and the Facebook groups, so you can plan ahead. Check regularly and stay tuned! Dates might shift and a few events will be added, but this should help you plan ahead!

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

Sincerely,

Iris Stoyanov

Hunt Valley PTA President

 

Hunt Valley Fun Run - This Saturday, September 7th, Rain or Shine

Join us this Saturday, September 7th, for the annual Hunt Valley Fun Run! This is a free event for all Hunt Valley students, families, and staff. All runners should arrive by 8:15am for check-in. There will be a 0.5 mile and 1 mile run, interactive stations with various local wellness-related vendors, light refreshments, and a special appearance from Hamilton the Hawk! No registration is required; however we do still need several volunteers in order to make this a safe and successful event! You can view and sign-up for volunteer opportunities here.

Instead of an entry fee, we ask that each family bring one non-perishable food item to benefit ECHO. See list of currently needed food items here.

For questions, contact [email protected]  

Hunt Valley Outdoor Pizza and Movie Night

SAVE THE DATE: September 13th, 8:15–9:30pm

Who: This event is open to all Hunt Valley students, families, and staff. Students must be chaperoned at all times—this is not a drop-off event.

What: Students, staff, and family members can enjoy an outdoor movie night with free popcorn. Pizza and concessions (drinks/snacks) will be available for purchase (while supplies last). We will also have awesome Hunt Valley spirit wear for sale if you missed us at Open House. Then head to the field to watch Kung Fu Panda 4! 

When: Friday, September 13th from 6:30 to 9:30pm. Pizza will be served starting at 6:30pm, and the movie will begin at 7:30pm. 

Volunteer Perk: If you are volunteering at this event, you get TWO FREE concession items as our thank you. Sign up here on our new PTA website (click here).

Don’t forget to bring chairs and blankets!

Please note that the playground, baseball field, and the rest of the soccer field will be closed once the movie begins!

Register for Fall 2024 Afterschool Programs

*Due to unforeseen circumstances, the Overtime Athletics program on Thursday has been canceled. The PTA has provided an alternative afterschool program, Kids in Motion.  

School Directory Information - COMING SOON!

Planning a birthday party or playdate? You can find students and parents by name, grade, or class! The directory is available to current PTA members at https://hvpta.ptboard.com/prf/directory. 

To access the directory, log in to HVPTA.PTBoard.com and click on Student Directory on the left menu. If you don’t have an account yet, follow the instructions under “Sign Up” on the top right corner to set up your profile.

All students are included in the directory unless they have opted out. If you prefer not to be listed in the directory, you may log in to your profile to adjust your visibility settings.

Not a PTA member yet? Join today!

For more information contact [email protected]

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. Thank you for your support!

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 PTA Committee Lead positions are still open for the 2024-2025 school year:

Teacher/Staff Appreciation & Hospitality: Are you always the hostess with the most-est?  Hospitality would be a perfect fit for you. Take time throughout the year to let our staff and teachers feel loved and appreciated.

Outreach/Community Service Chair: Do you have a knack for bringing people together, organizing events, and spreading good vibes like confetti? If you're passionate about making a difference, love meeting new people, and can handle a clipboard with style, we need you!

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

*New* PTA Website!

Check out our new PTA website if you haven’t done so already. 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! 

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!

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

Hello Hunt Valley Families,

We had a great second week of school! Our students continue learning routines and procedures and building relationships in class. Our teachers are implementing beginning of the year lessons and working to build a classroom community. As we have walked around the building, students are engaged in their learning and are excited to share what they are working on in class.

Our first early release Monday is only three weeks away and we are still in need of parent responses to the Early Release Monday survey. If you have not already done so, please fill out this form https://forms.gle/2CdzHtAGZeoJrDVw5 indicating your preference by August 30th. 

We hope that everyone has a wonderful long weekend!

Sincerely,

Keieownna Hightower, Principal

Chrissy Gibbs, Assistant Principal

Eric Kopacz, Assistant Principal

Scan the QR Code or use this Registration Form Link

FCPS Cell Phone Policy

📵 Phones Down, Engagement Up: FCPS Cell Phone Policy Keeping cell phones off during the school day helps students focus and learn. It also boosts positive social behavior. Review FCPS’ cell phone expectations by grade level with your child and help keep our classrooms free of distractions! If you need to reach your child during the school day, please call our 703-913-8800.  

Grades K-6

• Phones must be silenced and in backpacks for the duration of the school day. Cell phones may be used on campus before and after school only.
• Smart watches that serve a dual purpose may be worn, but the phone features (texting, Internet viewing, and calls) are to be off when phone use is prohibited.
• Students are prohibited from using phones, tablets, and other mobile devices in restrooms and locker rooms, unless there is a medical necessity or emergency.
• With the approval of the principal or their designee, teachers may allow usage of cell phones for instructional activities where they are the most appropriate tool; however, one-to-one FCPS devices should meet most needs.

Annual Notice of Survey, Records, Curriculum, Privacy, and Related Rights

Fairfax County Public Schools wants all parents and caregivers to understand its policies regarding surveys, records, curriculum, privacy, and related rights.

In its Annual Notice of Survey, Records, Curriculum, Privacy, and Related Rights and Opt-Out Forms (Annual Notice), FCPS provides explanations of the rights listed above as well as forms that may be used to exercise opt-out choices. Two versions of the Annual Notice are available: a grades K-8 version and a grades 9-12 version. Parents/caregivers with children at different grade levels should read each applicable version of the Annual Notice, because the notices and opt-out rights vary depending on the student’s grade level.

Get more information and view the 2024-25 Opt-Out Booklets.

West Springfield HS fall sports

Our Fall Athletics Season is upon us–Games will begin soon and we are excited to welcome our Spartan Community to our events.

If you don’t have Spartan spirit wear,  don’t worry -- the Booster Club will have plenty for sale!

The cost of all games is $5.00 for students and $7 for adults. 

To avoid long lines, we strongly encourage you to purchase a Season Pass, through our eTIX Site.  Or you can purchase individual game tickets here.

PLEASE VISIT our WEBSITE www.spartansports.net for more information and our game schedule.

FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS – We are excited to kick off our football season with our first home game on August 29th as the Spartans take on the Hayfield Hawks @ 7pm.

The theme for this FIRST home game is a WHITE OUT.

All elementary and middle school students need to be accompanied & supervised by an adult while at the game. High school students who get dropped off must plan to have their rides waiting for them at the conclusion of the game. 

If you or your student plans to come, please take the time to discuss the relevant information below:

• No backpacks or other bags will be allowed in the stadium. 
• No outside food or drinks are allowed. The concession stand will be open.
• The purpose for students who attend our varsity football games is to watch the game, cheerleaders, band, and dance team.
• We cheer for our team and not against our opponent. All cheers should be positive.
• The gates to the stadium will open at 6:15pm.
• All students need to leave immediately following the game.
• Elementary & middle school students must always be supervised by an adult.
• If you leave the game, you will not be able to re-enter the stadium.
• Whistles, air horns and similar noisemakers are prohibited.

Our goal is to create a positive community event.  Any behaviors that take away from this goal may result in removal from the game.  LET’S GO SPARTANS! 

Mark Your Calendar

August 30--Labor Day Holiday--NO SCHOOL

September 2--Labor Day Holiday--NO SCHOOL

September 16--3-hour Early Release @ 1:05 pm

September 18--Back to School Night

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

Saturday, September 7

Fall Fun Run, 8:15am - 9:45am (Hunt Valley School Grounds and Fields)

Friday, September 13

Hunt Valley Outdoor Dinner & Movie Night, 6:30pm - 9:30pm (Hunt Valley Fields)

Tuesday, September 17

Hybrid PTA Meeting (in person and via Google Meet), 7pm - 8pm

Wednesday, September 18

Back to School Night (Last Name A-K), 6pm - 6:45pm | (Last Name L-Z), 7pm - 7:45pm **SPIRIT WEAR AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE **

Monday - Friday, September 23 - 27

Fall Book Fair, more details to come.

Friday, September 27

Fall Festival, 5:30pm-8:30pm (Hunt Valley Fields)

A Message from the PTA President

Dear Hunt Valley Families,

Welcome back to the 2024-2025 school year! Hope everyone had a great relaxing summer and an amazing first week of school. To our new families, welcome! Hunt Valley is a wonderful community and we’re excited to have you here.

As we gear up for the new school year, the Hunt Valley PTA has lots of fun events planned - and as always, we need your support! Please sign-up or renew your PTA membership for the 2024-2025 school year and consider volunteering at one (or ten!) of our planned events.

And join us at our first PTA Meeting of the year on Tuesday, September 17, at 7pm either in-person (Library) or via Google Meet - we will share the changes the new Board made over the summer, vote on the PTA budget for the year and discuss upcoming events. More information will be coming soon.

We have a lot of great events planned for this year and can’t wait to see everyone there! If you need anything, please reach out to [email protected] or [email protected].

Sincerely,

Iris Stoyanov

Hunt Valley PTA President​​

Hunt Valley Fun Run SAVE THE DATE: September 7th, 8:15–9:45am

Save the date for our first event of the year!! Join us on Saturday, September 7th for the annual Hunt Valley Fun Run! All runners should arrive by 8:15am for check-in. This is a free event for all Hunt Valley students, families, and staff. No registration is required, however we do need several volunteers in order to make this a safe and successful event! You can view and sign-up for volunteer opportunities here.

Instead of an entry fee, we ask that each family bring one non-perishable food item to benefit ECHO. See list of currently needed food items here.

For questions, contact [email protected].

Hunt Valley Outdoor Pizza and Movie Night

SAVE THE DATE: September 13th, 8:15–9:30pm

Who: This event is open to all Hunt Valley students, families, and staff. Students must be chaperoned at all times—this is not a drop-off event.

What: Students, staff, and family members can enjoy an outdoor movie night with free popcorn. Pizza and concessions (drinks/snacks) will be available for purchase (while supplies last). We will also have awesome Hunt Valley spirit wear for sale if you missed us at Open House. Then head to the field to watch Kung Fu Panda 4! 

When: Friday, September 13th from 6:30 to 9:30pm. Pizza will be served starting at 6:30pm, and the movie will begin at 7:30pm. 

Volunteer Perk: If you are volunteering at this event, you get TWO FREE concession items as our thank you. Sign up here on our new PTA website (click here).

Don’t forget to bring chairs and blankets!

Please note that the playground, baseball field, and the rest of the soccer field will be closed once the movie begins!

Register for Fall Afterschool Programs

Monday   Kaizen Karate ($161/child) | 4:15pm - 5:15pm | (7 weeks)

Grades K - 6 | Dates: Sept 23 - Dec 9 (no class Oct 14, 21, No 4, 11, 18)

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 Sept 13th: http://www.kaizenfitnessusa.com/

 

Tuesday    RunFit Kids ($125/child) | 4:15pm - 5:30pm | (8 weeks)

Grades 1 - 6 | Dates Sept 17 - Nov 12 (no class Nov 5)

RunFit Kidz is unlike any other running program as our professional coaches understand the unique needs of young runners. We believe an early foundation of fitness will lead to a lifetime of healthy habits.

Register by Sept 13th: www.runfitkidz.com

 

Wednesday  CodeFuture ($50/child) | 4:15pm - 5:15pm | (10 weeks)

Grades 3 - 6 | Dates: Sept 25 - Dec 11 (no class Oct 2, Nov 27)

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

Register by Sept 13th: https://tinyurl.com/hvescoding

 

Thursdays   Overtime Athletics ($200/child) | 4:15pm - 5:15pm (10 weeks)

Grades K - 3 | Dates Sept 26, - Dec 19 (no class Oct 3, 31, Nov 28)

The Sports Spectacular Variety Program features the best “to-do” list ever – Basketball, Soccer, Flag Football, Kickball, Capture the Flag, Wiffle Ball, Bump and Bite, Knights and Dragons, Numbers Game, Tag Games, Safe Base and MORE!

Register by Sept 13th: https://otathletics.leagueapps.com/

 

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

Grades K - 6 | Dates: Sept 27 - Dec 13 (no class Oct 4, 11, Nov 1, 29)

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 Sept 13th: www.chessacademy.com

School Directory Information - COMING SOON!

Planning a birthday party or playdate? You can find students and parents by name, grade, or class! The directory is available to current PTA members at https://hvpta.ptboard.com/prf/directory. 

To access the directory, log in to HVPTA.PTBoard.com and click on Student Directory on the left menu. If you don’t have an account yet, follow the instructions under “Sign Up” on the top right corner to set up your profile.

All students are included in the directory unless they have opted out. If you prefer not to be listed in the directory, you may log in to your profile to adjust your visibility settings.

Not a PTA member yet? Join today!

For more information contact [email protected]

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. Thank you for your support!

General Information & Communication Volunteer Opportunities

We depend on our parent volunteers!

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

The following PTA Committee Lead positions are open for the 2024-2025 school year:

Teacher/Staff Appreciation & Hospitality: Are you always the hostess with the most-est?  Hospitality would be a perfect fit for you. Take time throughout the year to let our staff and teachers feel loved and appreciated.

Outreach/Community Service Chair: Do you have a knack for bringing people together, organizing events, and spreading good vibes like confetti? If you're passionate about making a difference, love meeting new people, and can handle a clipboard with style, we need you!

Copy Master: Is your favorite show The Office?  You could be our copy master and help by coming in to make copies for various PTA functions and announcements. Then have the copies sorted by grade and class to be placed in take home folders. Each “copy job” takes 2-3 hours. This opportunity would be great for stay-at-home parents or when wanting a break from remote work.

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

*New* PTA Website!

The Board is very excited to introduce our new PTA website, 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! 

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!

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

Happy Friday Hunt Valley Families,

We enjoyed seeing all our students and families return for a new school year! It has been a wonderful first week back as students have been learning and working together. We are excited for the new school year and look forward to many opportunities to get to know our students and families.

We are still in need of parent responses to our Early Release Monday survey. If you have not already done so, please fill out this form https://forms.gle/2CdzHtAGZeoJrDVw5 indicating your preference by August 30th. 

We hope that everyone has a wonderful weekend!

Sincerely,

Keieownna Hightower, Principal

Chrissy Gibbs, Assistant Principal

Eric Kopacz, Assistant Principal

 

Orchestra students from West Springfield HS put on a performance to get students in grades 4-6 excited about music! Our very own Mrs. Chappell and Mr. Allen joined in on the fun.

Scan the QR Code or use this Registration Form Link

FCPS Cell Phone Policy

📵 Phones Down, Engagement Up: FCPS Cell Phone Policy Keeping cell phones off during the school day helps students focus and learn. It also boosts positive social behavior. Review FCPS’ cell phone expectations by grade level with your child and help keep our classrooms free of distractions! If you need to reach your child during the school day, please call our 703-913-8800.  

Grades K-6

• Phones must be silenced and in backpacks for the duration of the school day. Cell phones may be used on campus before and after school only.
• Smart watches that serve a dual purpose may be worn, but the phone features (texting, Internet viewing, and calls) are to be off when phone use is prohibited.
• Students are prohibited from using phones, tablets, and other mobile devices in restrooms and locker rooms, unless there is a medical necessity or emergency.
• With the approval of the principal or their designee, teachers may allow usage of cell phones for instructional activities where they are the most appropriate tool; however, one-to-one FCPS devices should meet most needs.

Annual Notice of Survey, Records, Curriculum, Privacy, and Related Rights

Fairfax County Public Schools wants all parents and caregivers to understand its policies regarding surveys, records, curriculum, privacy, and related rights.

In its Annual Notice of Survey, Records, Curriculum, Privacy, and Related Rights and Opt-Out Forms (Annual Notice), FCPS provides explanations of the rights listed above as well as forms that may be used to exercise opt-out choices. Two versions of the Annual Notice are available: a grades K-8 version and a grades 9-12 version. Parents/caregivers with children at different grade levels should read each applicable version of the Annual Notice, because the notices and opt-out rights vary depending on the student’s grade level.

Get more information and view the 2024-25 Opt-Out Booklets.

West Springfield HS fall sports

Our Fall Athletics Season is upon us–Games will begin soon and we are excited to welcome our Spartan Community to our events.

If you don’t have Spartan spirit wear,  don’t worry -- the Booster Club will have plenty for sale!

The cost of all games is $5.00 for students and $7 for adults. 

To avoid long lines, we strongly encourage you to purchase a Season Pass, through our eTIX Site.  Or you can purchase individual game tickets here.

PLEASE VISIT our WEBSITE www.spartansports.net for more information and our game schedule.

FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS – We are excited to kick off our football season with our first home game on August 29th as the Spartans take on the Hayfield Hawks @ 7pm.

The theme for this FIRST home game is a WHITE OUT.

All elementary and middle school students need to be accompanied & supervised by an adult while at the game. High school students who get dropped off must plan to have their rides waiting for them at the conclusion of the game. 

If you or your student plans to come, please take the time to discuss the relevant information below:

• No backpacks or other bags will be allowed in the stadium. 
• No outside food or drinks are allowed. The concession stand will be open.
• The purpose for students who attend our varsity football games is to watch the game, cheerleaders, band, and dance team.
• We cheer for our team and not against our opponent. All cheers should be positive.
• The gates to the stadium will open at 6:15pm.
• All students need to leave immediately following the game.
• Elementary & middle school students must always be supervised by an adult.
• If you leave the game, you will not be able to re-enter the stadium.
• Whistles, air horns and similar noisemakers are prohibited.

Our goal is to create a positive community event.  Any behaviors that take away from this goal may result in removal from the game.  LET’S GO SPARTANS! 

Mark Your Calendar

August 30--Labor Day Holiday--NO SCHOOL

September 2--Labor Day Holiday--NO SCHOOL

September 16--3-hour Early Release @ 1:05 pm

September 18--Back to School Night

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

Attendance: 703.913.8820 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram