FCPS

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Yearbook pre-orders are open!

Pre-order your yearbook today! https://yearbookforever.com/schools/washington_irving_middle_school_320438/cLwxkvJ2bUUdlsILz2gm52Zx

Upcoming Important Dates

Greetings Irving Families!

Happy December 1st - while not the best weather to be welcoming in this new month, I am hopeful that the next couple of weeks our students will continue to work hard and end 2023, on a positive note! Speaking of notes - I would like to congratulate our Chorus and Band students on outstanding performances this week! We look forward to the Orchestra concert coming up on December 5 at 7:00 pm.

As we look to finish out the year and head out for a well earned Winter Break, December 18-January 1, we want to make sure that everyone leaves for break healthy! To ensure a healthy environment for our staff and students to work and learn in, please be sure to follow the guidance below if your child is not feeling well. For more information about when to keep your child at home, please take a look at the FCPS Website. Thank you for helping us keep everyone healthy this winter. 

Please keep your child home if

• they have a fever of 100.4 or higher, keep them at home until his or her fever is below 100.4 for 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medication. If the fever does not go away after 2-3 days or is 102.0 or higher, consult with a health care provider.
• your child is vomiting. Keep your child at home until vomiting has stopped for 24 hours. If vomiting continues, contact a health care provider.
• if your child has tested positive for COVID-19. Keep your child at home until completion of at least five days of isolation.  Additional guidance can be found on our Health and Safety Guidance Document.

Lastly, to ensure that students have all of there belongings, we have kept the Lost and Found Items until Winter Break. There are two clothing racks full of coats, hoodies, lunch boxes and a shopping cart full of water bottles, more lunch boxes, and more clothing. PLEASE stop by and take a look if you think your child is missing something. 

We hope you have a wonderful weekend!

Take Care! 

Cindy Conley

Principal

 

Support Families in our Community this Holiday Season

This year we have 2 ways Irving families may help support others in our community!

Support Opportunity 1: Each year, we ask the Irving community to adopt Irving families to provide gifts during the holiday season and we have many families requesting this help. If you would like to donate directly to a family in our neighborhood by providing a gift card, please sign up using this Sign Up Genius. Please plan to deliver the gift card to Meg Gollinger at Irving by December 8, to ensure we have enough time to get the gift cards to families. 

Support Opportunity 2: Donations to the ECHO Food Drive - please have your child drop off their non-perishable canned food donations into their teams box in the main lobby! 

Advanced Academics Spring Screening

Parents and/or teachers interested in referring students for the Spring Level IV (full time) screening must submit a level IV referral form to the school’s Advanced Academic Resource Teacher (AART) by December 15, 2023. It may be helpful for you to complete and submit the Parent/Guardian questionnaire in addition to your referral form. This can also be found on the page that is linked above.   Finally, you may also submit up to 2 student work samples, as a parent.  Once the AART receives the referral form, she will then request work samples and ratings from the student’s current teachers to submit to the screening committee.  The committee then reviews the students’ files in the spring to make an appropriate recommendation. Submit the form to Katie Richter: [email protected].

Shark Tank Panelist Needed

Do you like the show Shark Tank? Always wanted to be an investor in great ideas? Here’s your chance! Mx. Beil’s students are working on designing and creating an invention that focuses primarily on the FCPS Portrait of a Graduate Attribute of Ethical and Global Citizen. Their projects should promote environmental stewardship. Sharks will be judging anywhere from 4 or 5 student teams. Each team has 15 minutes which includes set up time, the presentation and a few minutes to take questions from the judges. Judges’ “investment budget” is a pretend $300,000 for the day. Judging will take place around the 2nd week in January.  If you are interested in being a Shark for these student presentations and would like more information, please email Mx. Beil at [email protected].

Fairfax County Youth Survey for all 8th graders

The Fairfax County School Board and the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors work together to administer the Fairfax County Youth Survey. The survey is given to all students in grades 6, 8, 10, and 12 each fall. It provides a wealth of information about a variety of topics related to our youth that influence their physical and mental well being, from sleep and nutritional habits to substance abuse behaviors to symptoms of depression and suicidal thoughts. 

At Irving Middle School, we plan to administer this survey to all 8th graders through our 3rd period Advisory class on Monday, December 4. Families of 8th grade students should expect to receive a physical letter in the mail soon with more details and an optional opt-out form. You may follow the link above for more information, now. You may preview the entire 8th grade survey here. 

Please contact our School Test Coordinator, Leigh Arscott ([email protected]), with any questions you have about this survey. 

Lightspeed Classroom Management

As part of our commitment to creating a safe and focused learning environment for our students, our school has started using a new classroom management tool that will help teachers better connect with student devices during classes and we will expand our use over the next few weeks. This tool will provide teachers with a number of helpful features: 

• Easily view student screens in real time from the teacher console to see which students may need guidance or support.
• Focus student attention on a particular website on their device to minimize distractions.
• Pause student access to the internet to focus on other classroom tasks.

We believe this classroom management tool will allow us to maximize class time to support your student’s learning while at school. Please note that student devices will not be monitored outside of school hours. The regular filters remain in place on school devices, but once they are home, teachers cannot monitor students. As parents, we would like to encourage you to sign up for your own Lightspeed reports, which will allow you to see how your child is spending time on the computer during and after school hours.

Irving Stays After - After School Program Registration

The After School program at Irving Middle School provides students access to high-quality activities in a safe environment for all students. The Program strives to improve academic performance, foster social, emotional, and physical well-being, all while reducing the potential for risk-taking behaviors. 

https://forms.gle/jj9RXegR3C85tJ6u6

Due to the popularity of Volleyball, Volleyball Clinic will take place after Winter Break. There are other athletic opportunities, please check the schedule in the After School Programs Folder.

The following clubs will return after Winter Break:

• Art Club
• Back to Basics Leadership
• Soccer Club
• Whisk Takers
• *Ultimate Frisbee* will return in the Spring

Harry Potter Club is postponed until 2/22.

Updates for next week: Sewing Club will be held on Wednesday, December 6 for both blocks

Library News

December is here!  I’ll be encouraging students to make sure to have books to read as we prepare for our Winter Break.  I am also happy to show any students how to access the many audiobooks that they have the ability to access on their laptops or phones; these stories might come in handy during holiday travel.

Students seemed happy to get back into the routine of school and visiting the library this week.  Our “Irving Says” poll asked students if they’d rather be a Sports Star or a Musical Entertainer Celebrity.  Our in-person-only voting this week has revealed that 64% of students report that they’d choose to be a sports star, while 36% of students would rather be a musical entertainer.  Ask this question at the dinner table this weekend and see how those in your household would vote.  Stay tuned next week for another report on what “Irving Says.”

 –Ms. Monk and Mr. Brizek

PTA News

SPIRIT NIGHT - Our next Spirit Night will be at Ledo's on December 4th! See flyer on the PTA website - https://irvingms.memberhub.com. (copy and paste / links don't work!)

SPIRIT DAY EVERY THURSDAY - All Day at Papa John's (Rolling Road!). Order online using promo code IMS4010. You'll get 40% off all menu prices! See flyer on the PTA website - https://irvingms.memberhub.com. (copy and paste / links don't work!) (COPY & PASTE SINCE THE LINKS ARE NOT LIVE)

TEACHER APPRECIATION DECEMBER 13th - Hot Cocoa Bar in the Staff Lounge! If you are interested in volunteering - please email us! - [email protected] - or we're happy to take direct donations to support - you can donate here - https://irvingms.memberhub.com/store/items/62509

NEW SPIRITWEAR / NEW LOGO - COMING VERY SOON!! 

JANUARY 9th IN-PERSON PTA MEETING @ 6pm! + "Kids in Today's Society" presentation (formerly "Hidden in Plain Sight") from our local Fairfax County Police in West Springfield. This presentation provides insight into a range of teen behavior, from risky to illegal, that the local police are currently dealing with. It is an adult only presentation. This presentation will be combined with our January general PTA meeting.

We'd love for you to join the PTA! $10 Parents/Guardians; $9 additional family members; $5 Staff/Faculty https://irvingms.memberhub.com/store?limit=21&live=true (COPY & PASTE SINCE THE LINKS ARE NOT LIVE)

Feel free to reach out to learn more about the Irving PTA, or with questions you might have.

Website: https://irvingms.memberhub.com  (copy & paste link)

Email: [email protected]

8100 Old Keene Mill Springfield, VA 22152  | Main Office: 703-912-4500
Attendance: 703-912-4545 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website. 

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

이 소식지를 다른 언어로 읽으려면, 우리 웹사이트를 방문하시기 바랍니다.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى.

Yearbook pre-orders are open!

Pre-order your yearbook today! https://yearbookforever.com/schools/washington_irving_middle_school_320438/cLwxkvJ2bUUdlsILz2gm52Zx

Upcoming Important Dates

Nov 20 & 21

No After School Activities

Nov 22-24

No School, Thanksgiving Break

Nov 29 & 30

LifeTouch School Picture Retake Days (8:30-1:30) both days

Nov 29

Chorus Concert at 7:00 pm

 

Greetings, Irving Families!

Thank you for your generosity in supporting our Thanksgiving baskets for families. We have been able to support many families in our area thanks to the kindness of our Irving community! 

In our library this week, students have been adding leaves to the Thankful Tree. It has been fun to read the many things our students are grateful for. As we approach the Thanksgiving break and closing out the month of November, I want to make sure I share how grateful I am for our Irving Middle School community. Thank you to our families for supporting our staff and your children. We see the efforts, advocacy, and partnership you provide for your child and we are grateful to you. (We also see how kind you are when a laptop, lunch, and/or coat is forgotten too!) 

I am grateful for our staff who put so much effort into planning lessons, providing engaging lessons, and supporting our students in so many ways. I am so glad each and everyone of them chose to work at Irving Middle School. Most importantly, I am grateful for our students - the heartbeat of our school. Seeing them grow throughout the two years we have them at Irving is the highlight of working at Irving Middle School. 

I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving Break. A reminder that we do not expect students to work on any homework or projects over break. Our staff will be taking the break as well, so Irving Middle will be closed November 22-26. We will reopen on Monday, November 27 at 7:00 am. 

Take Care!

Cindy Conley

Principal

Shark Tank Panelist Needed

Do you like the show Shark Tank? Always wanted to be an investor in great ideas? Here’s your chance! Mx. Beil’s students are working on designing and creating an invention that focuses primarily on the FCPS Portrait of a Graduate Attribute of Ethical and Global Citizen. Their projects should promote environmental stewardship. Sharks will be judging anywhere from 4 or 5 student teams. Each team has 15 minutes which includes set up time, the presentation and a few minutes to take questions from the judges. Judges’ “investment budget” is a pretend $300,000 for the day. Judging will take place around the 2nd week in January.  If you are interested in being a Shark for these student presentations and would like more information, please email Mx. Beil at [email protected].

November is Family Engagement in Education Month

When schools and families work together to support learning and healthy development, everyone benefits!  Click this link for the calendar of events. 

Music Boosters Fundraiser

The Washington Irving Music Boosters have a new fundraiser for the upcoming holiday season. If you’re looking for ways to decorate your home for thanksgiving or the holidays, or maybe you just need a gift idea, Lynch Creek Fundraising has a wide selection of decorations. A 15% contribution from your purchasing goes to the Music Boosters and directly supports WIMs music students. Check out the link below for their selection of wreaths, centerpieces, garland, and more!

https://www.lynchcreekfundraising.com/c/301614

Alcohol & The Holidays

Holidays may involve family time, games, movies, food, and possibly drinks. Although loneliness is a cause for alcohol or drug consumption, being around others does not necessarily mean a decrease in unhealthy habits. Alcohol consumption increased during the pandemic and has not decreased after we have returned to a semblance of normalcy. Many people are still trying to figure out how to navigate our “new normal”. We encourage the consideration of a few things as we move towards the end of the year, have time off, and look forward to social interactions.

Questions to consider when drinking with your family:

1. What message am I sending if I drink in excess around my underage child?
2. Have I had conversations about responsible drinking with my child(ren)?
3. Are the conversations I have about alcohol consumption realistic?
4. Are the conversations I have with others reinforcing alcohol use as a coping skill during stressful times?
5. What messages am I sending my underage child(ren) if I allow them to drink with me or another adult in the house?

Information to consider:

“One-third of Fairfax County students (33.7%) reported drinking alcohol at least once in their lifetime, ranging from 18.8% of eighth-grade students to half of twelfth-grade students (49.4%). One in seven students (15.2%) reported drinking alcohol in the past month, ranging from 4.5% of eighth-grade students to 27.7% of twelfth-grade students.” (FCPS Youth Survey 2020)

“Female students reported higher rates of alcohol use in their lifetime (36.1% compared to 31.2% of male students), in the past month (17.1% and 13.1%, respectively), and binge drinking in the past two weeks (7.3% and 6.5%, respectively)” (FCPS Youth Survey 2020).

Resources:

Holiday Stress

Helpful Info to Quit Vaping

FCPS video on Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drugs

Substance Abuse Prevention (Spanish)

For general questions about the FCPS Substance Abuse Prevention Program, please contact the Office of Student Safety & Wellness at: (571) 423-4270 and be sure to follow us on Twitter at @FCPSSAPS.

For further information & support:

Ken Johnson,

Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist

[email protected]

Fairfax County Youth Survey for all 8th graders

The Fairfax County School Board and the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors work together to administer the Fairfax County Youth Survey. The survey is given to all students in grades 6, 8, 10, and 12 each fall. It provides a wealth of information about a variety of topics related to our youth that influence their physical and mental well being, from sleep and nutritional habits to substance abuse behaviors to symptoms of depression and suicidal thoughts. 

At Irving Middle School, we plan to administer this survey to all 8th graders through our 3rd period Advisory class on Monday, December 4. Families of 8th grade students should expect to receive a physical letter in the mail soon with more details and an optional opt-out form. You may follow the link above for more information, now. You may preview the entire 8th grade survey here. 

Please contact our School Test Coordinator, Leigh Arscott ([email protected]), with any questions you have about this survey. 

Lightspeed Classroom Management

As part of our commitment to creating a safe and focused learning environment for our students, our school has started using a new classroom management tool that will help teachers better connect with student devices during classes and we will expand our use over the next few weeks. This tool will provide teachers with a number of helpful features: 

• Easily view student screens in real time from the teacher console to see which students may need guidance or support.
• Focus student attention on a particular website on their device to minimize distractions.
• Pause student access to the internet to focus on other classroom tasks.

We believe this classroom management tool will allow us to maximize class time to support your student’s learning while at school. Please note that student devices will not be monitored outside of school hours. The regular filters remain in place on school devices, but once they are home, teachers cannot monitor students. As parents, we would like to encourage you to sign up for your own Lightspeed reports, which will allow you to see how your child is spending time on the computer during and after school hours.

ParentVue Accounts

With a SIS ParentVue account you can sign up to receive weekly progress reports for your child’s courses, access Schoology, MySchoolBucks, Here Comes the Bus, etc. Click the links to learn more and activate your account today!

Irving Stays After - After School Program Registration

The After School program at Irving Middle School provides students access to high-quality activities in a safe environment for all students. The Program strives to improve academic performance, foster social, emotional, and physical well-being, all while reducing the potential for risk-taking behaviors. 

https://forms.gle/jj9RXegR3C85tJ6u6

Due to the popularity of Volleyball, Volleyball Clinic will take place after Winter Break. There are other athletic opportunities, please check the schedule in the After School Programs Folder.

Back to Basics Leadership is postponed until 11/29

Harry Potter Club is postponed until 2/22

Clubs updates: Art Club will not meet during the month of November 

Library News

Students have enjoyed adding leaves to our “Thankful Tree” in the library this week.  Our middle school students are thankful for many things–some of them are a little funny, but other leaves express their sincere feelings.  

In our “Irving Says” poll from last week, we asked students a reading-specific question.  55% of students voted to say that they’d rather read a new, exciting book every week and never finish it, rather than reading the same book over and over forever.  It was interesting to hear the debate and discussions that students were having about this!

We encourage all students to make sure that they have reading material or audio books to enjoy over the Thanksgiving break.  Please encourage your student to stop by the library on Monday or Tuesday of next week so that they’ll have something to read or listen to (maybe on that long car trip???)

We are thankful this Thanksgiving that we get to work with your students and encourage them to enjoy reading as a life-long hobby. –Ms. Monk and Mr. Brizek

PTA News

SPIRIT NIGHT - Our next Spirit Night will be Ledo's in December! Stay tuned! 

SPIRIT DAY EVERY THURSDAY - All Day at Papa John's in Springfield. Order online using promo code IMS4010. You'll get 40% off all menu prices! https://drive.google.com/file/d/1uvMIqPZsfaUqefNk619KuQ4sGYes7hWz/view?usp=sharing   (COPY & PASTE SINCE THE LINKS ARE NOT LIVE)

TEACHER APPRECIATION DECEMBER 13th - Be on the lookout for more info about how to donate or volunteer!!

NEW SPIRITWEAR / NEW LOGO - COMING VERY SOON!! 

JANUARY 9th IN-PERSON PTA MEETING + "Kids in Today's Society" presentation (formerly Hidden in Plain Sight) from our local Fairfax County Police in West Springfield. This presentation provides insight into a range of teen behavior, from risky to illegal, that the local police are currently dealing with. It is an adult only presentation. This presentation will be combined with our January general PTA meeting.

We'd love for you to join the PTA! $10 Parents/Guardians; $9 additional family members; $5 Staff/Faculty https://irvingms.memberhub.com/store?limit=21&live=true (COPY & PASTE SINCE THE LINKS ARE NOT LIVE)

Feel free to reach out to learn more about the Irving PTA, or with questions you might have.

Website: https://irvingms.memberhub.com  (copy & paste link)

Email: [email protected]

8100 Old Keene Mill Springfield, VA 22152  | Main Office: 703-912-4500
Attendance: 703-912-4545 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website. 

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

이 소식지를 다른 언어로 읽으려면, 우리 웹사이트를 방문하시기 바랍니다.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى.

Greetings Irving Families!

Each year we recognize staff in several ways; one way we recognize our staff is through the FCPS Outstanding Employee Program. There are five categories for which Irving Middle School will be submitting nominations for this year. We would like to provide you an opportunity to nominate staff members you believe best meet the criteria for each category in the form linked below. Nominations will be accepted through Thursday, November 30. As a part of the nomination process, we ask that you include a few sentences regarding why you are nominating the staff member for the award. We appreciate your help in recognizing our amazing staff and look forward to celebrating with our winners in December.

Nomination Form: https://forms.gle/cjuyZETKWc1Pk2J79

Thank you!

Cindy Conley

8100 Old Keene Mill Springfield, VA 22152  | Main Office: 703-912-4500
Attendance: 703-912-4545 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website. 

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

이 소식지를 다른 언어로 읽으려면, 우리 웹사이트를 방문하시기 바랍니다.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى.

Yearbook pre-orders are open!

Pre-order your yearbook today! https://yearbookforever.com/schools/washington_irving_middle_school_320438/cLwxkvJ2bUUdlsILz2gm52Zx

Upcoming Important Dates

Impact Aid Forms available on ParentVUE

Please be sure to fill out your form online today!

November 14

Virtual PTA Meeting @ 6:30 pm - link will be sent next week

November 15

PTA Spirit Night at PANERA

November 16

High School and Beyond (see below for more information)

November 20 & 21

No After School Activities

November 22-24

No School, Thanksgiving Break

November 29 & 30

LifeTouch School Picture Retake Days (8:30-1:30) both days

 

Food for Neighbors Red Bag pick up is tomorrow morning!

Greetings, Irving Families!

First, I want to thank all of our military veterans and their families for their service, as we celebrate Veterans Day today and tomorrow. I am grateful to all of the families who submitted their Wall of Heroes page for our wall display. The Wall of Heroes is one of my favorite displays each year because it enables us to put faces and names to the words “those who served and are currently serving”. The display also is a way for our students to learn about others and make connections to their own family members and/or friends. 

Tomorrow is our second Food for Neighbors Red Bag Collection day. Please do not forget to set out your red bag for pick up in the morning. Our volunteer drivers will be out early to pick up bags. We have a great number of volunteers who will be sorting the food so that it can be packaged and donated right back to our students and students at West Springfield High School and surrounding secondary schools. Thank you so much for your generosity and for supporting this outstanding program For more information about Food for Neighbors, click on this link.

Lastly, I would like to highlight a great program coming up on November 16, for our current 8th grade students called, High School and Beyond.  The program will be held here at Irving Middle in Barker Hall from 6:30-8:00pm. Please see below for more information. We hope many of our 8th grade parents/guardians are able to attend.

Take Care!

Cindy Conley

Principal

November is Family Engagement in Education Month

When schools and families work together to support learning and healthy development, everyone benefits!  Click this link for the calendar of events. 

Baskets of Food for Families in Need for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time for family, food and gratitude. Many local households this year struggle to enjoy the holiday. In 2022, Alicia Strickland and Ania Cress, Realtors in our area, coordinated the donation of 38 beautiful baskets for families in need in Springfield. With your help, they will reach their goal of 100 baskets this year. Ms. Strickland and Ms. Cress  along with Hunt Valley ES, Cardinal Forest ES, Irving MS and West Springfield HS social workers and school counselors will be gifting the baskets to families in need. If you would like to donate a basket, please sign up here. Drop-off for the #BlessingBaskets will be November 15th, 2023 4:30-7pm at Ledo's Pizza and Robeks Patio at Cardinal Forest Plaza, 8324 Old Keene Mill Road, Springfield, 22152. If you would like to help organize the collections as they are received on Nov. 15th, please sign up here. Feel free to stay for happy hour at Ledo's as they will be offering special discounts.

If your family has a need for food, please reach out to Irving’s Social Worker, Traci Jamison, at [email protected]. 

High School and Beyond

Families with a current 8th grade student currently attending Irving are invited to attend High School and Beyond at Irving (in Barker Hall) on November 16th from 6:30-8:00pm. We are excited to kick off the High School Academic Advising Season with a special Presentation and Curriculum Fair specific for our rising 9th grade families. Come hear Graduation Experts discuss what to expect as your child enters high school, various options for them following high school graduation as well as have the opportunity to speak to West Springfield Department Chairs and teachers.  You will have the chance to ask all your questions about high school, graduation requirements, pathways etc. You will also get a preview of all the classes available next year.  We look forward to you joining us for our first ever offering of this program.

Fairfax County Youth Survey for all 8th graders

The Fairfax County School Board and the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors work together to administer the Fairfax County Youth Survey. The survey is given to all students in grades 6, 8, 10, and 12 each fall. It provides a wealth of information about a variety of topics related to our youth that influence their physical and mental well being, from sleep and nutritional habits to substance abuse behaviors to symptoms of depression and suicidal thoughts. 

At Irving Middle School, we plan to administer this survey to all 8th graders through our 3rd period Advisory class on Monday, December 4. Families of 8th grade students should expect to receive a physical letter in the mail soon with more details and an optional opt-out form. You may follow the link above for more information, now. You may preview the entire 8th grade survey here. 

Please contact our School Test Coordinator, Leigh Arscott ([email protected]), with any questions you have about this survey. 

SIS Gradebooks Closed for Grade Reporting

ParentVue and StudentVue access to the gradebooks will be closed during the grading window: November 3-14, 2023. 

ParentVue Accounts

With a SIS ParentVue account you can sign up to receive weekly progress reports for your child’s courses, access Schoology, MySchoolBucks, Here Comes the Bus, etc. Click the links to learn more and activate your account today!

Irving Stays After - After School Program Registration

The After School program at Irving Middle School provides students access to high-quality activities in a safe environment for all students. The Program strives to improve academic performance, foster social, emotional, and physical well-being, all while reducing the potential for risk-taking behaviors. 

https://forms.gle/jj9RXegR3C85tJ6u6

Due to the popularity of Volleyball, Volleyball Clinic will take place after Winter Break. There are other athletic opportunities, please check the schedule in the After School Programs Folder.

Back to Basics Leadership is postponed until 11/29

Harry Potter Club is postponed until 2/22

Clubs updates: Art Club will not meet during the month of November 

Library News

Students may contact Ms. Monk if they are interested in joining the after-school book club, "Readers Unite."  We’ll discuss April Henry’s Girl, Stolen on 11/13, and choose our next title.

PTA News

SPIRIT NIGHT - Our next Spirit Night will be PANERA on November 15th. Flyer coming next week.   

SPIRIT DAY EVERY THURSDAY - All Day at Papa John's in Springfield. Order online using promo code IMS4010. You'll get 40% off all menu prices! https://drive.google.com/file/d/1uvMIqPZsfaUqefNk619KuQ4sGYes7hWz/view?usp=sharing   (COPY & PASTE SINCE THE LINKS ARE NOT LIVE)

NOVEMBER MEETING - Our next General PTA Meeting will be November 14, 6:30, via zoom. Meeting link will be sent out next week.

JANUARY - "Kids in Today's Society" presentation (formerly Hidden in Plain Sight) from our local Fairfax County Police in West Springfield. This presentation provides insight into a range of teen behavior, from risky to illegal, that the local police are currently dealing with. It is an adult only presentation. This presentation will be combined with our January general PTA meeting.

We'd love for you to join the PTA! $10 Parents/Guardians; $9 additional family members; $5 Staff/Faculty https://irvingms.memberhub.com/store?limit=21&live=true (COPY & PASTE SINCE THE LINKS ARE NOT LIVE)

Feel free to reach out to learn more about the Irving PTA, or with questions you might have.

Website: https://irvingms.memberhub.com  (copy & paste link)

Email: [email protected]

8100 Old Keene Mill Springfield, VA 22152  | Main Office: 703-912-4500
Attendance: 703-912-4545 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website. 

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

이 소식지를 다른 언어로 읽으려면, 우리 웹사이트를 방문하시기 바랍니다.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى.

Yearbook pre-orders are open!

Pre-order your yearbook today! https://yearbookforever.com/schools/washington_irving_middle_school_320438/cLwxkvJ2bUUdlsILz2gm52Zx

Upcoming Important Dates

Impact Aid Forms available on ParentVUE

Please be sure to fill out your form online today!

November 6 & 7

No school for students

November 16

High School and Beyond (see below for more information)

November 20 & 21

No After School Activities

November 22-24

No School, Thanksgiving Break

 

Please don’t forget to stop by and check the lost and found!

The collection has grown since this picture was taken last week. Parents/Guardians may stop by on Monday, November 6 from 9:00 am - 12:00 pm to take a look. Items not claimed by Friday, November 10 at the end of the school day will be donated. 

Greetings, Irving Families!

And just like that, the 1st quarter of the school is done! We celebrated the end of the quarter today with Team Day activity for each of our 8 teams. The kids had a great time officially seeing their entire team together for the first time. All teams compete throughout the school year for team points by participating in a variety of challenges. At the end of the year we have an overall team challenge winner whose team name is added to the Team Challenge trophy. Currently, we have the Green Team with two wins and the Red Team with one. We look forward to seeing how this year's competitions turn out. 

As we look toward the holidays which are (believe it or not) quickly approaching, please know that we ensure they are truly breaks for our staff and students. During the Thanksgiving and Winter breaks, no homework is assigned and there are no projects or major tests due the two days after we return from each break. ALso, we ask staff not to work/check their emails during breaks so they can spend the time with their families. 

We hope you have a wonderful weekend and don’t forget to turn back your clocks on Saturday night.

Take Care!

Cindy Conley

Principal

November is Family Engagement in Education Month

When schools and families work together to support learning and healthy development, everyone benefits!  Click this link for the calendar of events. 

Fairfax County Youth Survey for all 8th graders

The Fairfax County School Board and the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors work together to administer the Fairfax County Youth Survey. The survey is given to all students in grades 6, 8, 10, and 12 each fall. It provides a wealth of information about a variety of topics related to our youth that influence their physical and mental well being, from sleep and nutritional habits to substance abuse behaviors to symptoms of depression and suicidal thoughts. 

At Irving Middle School, we plan to administer this survey to all 8th graders through our 3rd period Advisory class on Monday, December 4. Families of 8th grade students should expect to receive a physical letter in the mail soon with more details and an optional opt-out form. You may follow the link above for more information, now. You may preview the entire 8th grade survey here. 

Please contact our School Test Coordinator, Leigh Arscott ([email protected]), with any questions you have about this survey. 

SIS Gradebooks Closed for Grade Reporting

ParentVue and StudentVue access to the gradebooks will be closed during the grading window: November 3-14, 2023. 

ParentVue Accounts

With a SIS ParentVue account you can sign up to receive weekly progress reports for your child’s courses, access Schoology, MySchoolBucks, Here Comes the Bus, etc. Click the links to learn more and activate your account today!

Baskets of Food for Families in Need for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time for family, food and gratitude. Many local households this year struggle to enjoy the holiday. In 2022, Alicia Strickland and Ania Cress, Realtors in our area, coordinated the donation of 38 beautiful baskets for families in need in Springfield. With your help, they will reach their goal of 100 baskets this year. Ms. Strickland and Ms. Cress  along with Hunt Valley ES, Cardinal Forest ES, Irving MS and West Springfield HS social workers and school counselors will be gifting the baskets to families in need. If you would like to donate a basket, please sign up here. Drop-off for the #BlessingBaskets will be November 15th, 2023 4:30-7pm at Ledo's Pizza and Robeks Patio at Cardinal Forest Plaza, 8324 Old Keene Mill Road, Springfield, 22152. If you would like to help organize the collections as they are received on Nov. 15th, please sign up here. Feel free to stay for happy hour at Ledo's as they will be offering special discounts.

If your family has a need for food, please reach out to Irving’s Social Worker, Traci Jamison, at [email protected]. 

High School and Beyond

Families with a current 8th grade student currently attending Irving are invited to attend High School and Beyond at Irving (in Barker Hall) on November 16th from 6:30-8:00pm. We are excited to kick off the High School Academic Advising Season with a special Presentation and Curriculum Fair specific for our rising 9th grade families. Come hear Graduation Experts discuss what to expect as your child enters high school, various options for them following high school graduation as well as have the opportunity to speak to West Springfield Department Chairs and teachers.  You will have the chance to ask all your questions about high school, graduation requirements, pathways etc. You will also get a preview of all the classes available next year.  We look forward to you joining us for our first ever offering of this program.

Conversing with Teens about Substance Use

Within this society’s culture sometimes we avoid talking about topics that make us uncomfortable but can be both lifesaving and changing, such as finances and drugs. Are there things that would have really made a difference in some of your experiences if known when younger, that can be shared with your teenager now? Here’s a few tips for talking about substance use and misuse with your teenager.

Avoid:

•     Overgeneralizations/horror stories - Ex: “People who use drugs go to jail and end up homeless.” -That is not true for most people.
•     Sharing about how you used to do drugs - Ex: “I smoked in high school, so I understand wanting to experiment.” - The THC content in marijuana is much higher than when you may have used.
•     Having loose boundaries - Ex: “It’s okay if you do it at home, but not anywhere else.” -This creates a gray area and demonstrates an acceptance for not following rules and established boundaries.

Tips:

•     Have a united front or if alone be consistent. - Both parents need to communicate the same message. No good cop, bad cop.
•     Recognize addiction in your family. - Speak the unspoken. Share information that could help your teen make an informed decision about “playing with fire” since they’re genetically predisposed.
•     Set a desired outcome for the conversation. - What do you want your teen to understand before you start the conversation?
•     Focus on their health as important and a concern versus behavior. - Avoid finger pointing literally and figuratively.
•     Set firm expectations & boundaries - Clearly explain what is and isn’t acceptable for your household and the associated consequences.
• Keep a “cool head”
• Withhold judgment
• Be direct
• Be prepared for your teen’s reaction.

Resources:

Helpful Info to Quit Vaping: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/health/free-e-cigarette-quit-program

FCPS video on Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drugs: https://dl.ebmcdn.net/fcps/courses/ATODParentPresentationRequired103119b/story_html5.html

Knowing the signs of Substance Abuse: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7VWGxTZrpCU 

For general questions about the FCPS Substance Abuse Prevention Program, please contact the Office of Student Safety & Wellness at: (571) 423-4270.

For further information & support: Ken Johnson, Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist

[email protected]

Irving Stays After - After School Program Registration

The After School program at Irving Middle School provides students access to high-quality activities in a safe environment for all students. The Program strives to improve academic performance, foster social, emotional, and physical well-being, all while reducing the potential for risk-taking behaviors. 

https://forms.gle/jj9RXegR3C85tJ6u6

Due to the popularity of Volleyball, Volleyball Clinic will take place after Winter Break. There are other athletic opportunities, please check the schedule in the After School Programs Folder.

Back to Basics Leadership is postponed until 11/29

Harry Potter Club is postponed until 2/22

Clubs updates: Art Club will not meet during the month of November 

There is no after school and/or late buses on Wednesday, November 8

Library News

7th Grade students have been frequenting the library in the past few weeks–first with English classes, as they chose a new “choice reading books,” and more recently, with History classes, as they practiced analyzing historical political cartoons from the 1880s.  

Many students worked together during their break-time sessions, over a matter of weeks to complete a 1000-piece puzzle.  Extreme perfectionists are disappointed that all but 5 pieces were put together; but considering that the puzzle sat out in the open with 1240-some students passing by, I am impressed that there were only a few pieces missing!

Last week’s “Irving Says” survey found that 71% of students that participated in our in-person poll would rather “Be a Ghost,” rather than “Be Haunted by a Ghost.”  Smart choice in my opinion!

Students may contact Ms. Monk if they are interested in joining the after-school book club, "Readers Unite."  We’ll be discussing April Henry’s Girl, Stolen on 11/13, and choosing a new title.

PTA News

SPIRIT NIGHT - Our next Spirit Night will be PANERA on November 15th. Flyer coming next week.   

SPIRIT DAY EVERY THURSDAY - All Day at Papa John's in Springfield. Order online using promo code IMS4010. You'll get 40% off all menu prices! https://drive.google.com/file/d/1uvMIqPZsfaUqefNk619KuQ4sGYes7hWz/view?usp=sharing   (COPY & PASTE SINCE THE LINKS ARE NOT LIVE)

NOVEMBER MEETING - Our next General PTA Meeting will be November 14, 6:30, via zoom. Meeting link will be sent out next week.

JANUARY - "Kids in Today's Society" presentation (formerly Hidden in Plain Sight) from our local Fairfax County Police in West Springfield. This presentation provides insight into a range of teen behavior, from risky to illegal, that the local police are currently dealing with. It is an adult only presentation. This presentation will be combined with our January general PTA meeting.

We'd love for you to join the PTA! $10 Parents/Guardians; $9 additional family members; $5 Staff/Faculty https://irvingms.memberhub.com/store?limit=21&live=true (COPY & PASTE SINCE THE LINKS ARE NOT LIVE)

Feel free to reach out to learn more about the Irving PTA, or with questions you might have.

Website: https://irvingms.memberhub.com  (copy & paste link)

Email: [email protected]

8100 Old Keene Mill Springfield, VA 22152  | Main Office: 703-912-4500
Attendance: 703-912-4545 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website. 

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

이 소식지를 다른 언어로 읽으려면, 우리 웹사이트를 방문하시기 바랍니다.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى.

Dear Parents/Guardians,

As Veterans Day approaches, we would like to honor those who have served and are serving in the Armed Forces.  If you would like to recognize someone in your family, please print and fill out this form and return it to the Main Office. All forms should be returned to the Main Office by Wednesday, November 8.

Please include a photograph (photocopy of photograph is preferred since these will not be returned) of the person you would like to honor. These forms will be displayed in the hallway to remind our students and visitors of the meaning and importance of recognizing our Veterans.  If you would like to honor more than one family member, please feel free to make copies of this form. If you would like a copy of this form, please have your child stop by student services.

Thank you,

Cindy Conley

Principal

 

8100 Old Keene Mill Springfield, VA 22152  | Main Office: 703-912-4500
Attendance: 703-912-4545 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website. 

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

이 소식지를 다른 언어로 읽으려면, 우리 웹사이트를 방문하시기 바랍니다.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى.

Greetings Irving Families! 

I apologize, last week, I meant to include information about Halloween at Irving MS. Tomorrow, if they would like to, students are allowed to dress up for Halloween in school appropriate costumes. Please do NOT have your child bring candy to school - especially on Wednesday through the remainder of the week. We have people in our building with a variety of allergies and out of respect for all of our staff and students, we ask that candy be enjoyed at home. Also, so that all students are able to participate in dressing up (should they wish) AND still participate in instruction and learning, below is a list of prohibited costume items. Should students arrive at school with any of these prohibited items, they will be asked to leave the item in the office for parent/guardian pick up and/or be asked to change. 

Lastly, our staff will be joining in the fun with our annual staff Halloween Costume Contest. Students will be voting for the winner via a Google form. We look forward to a fun day!

Prohibited Costume Items: 

• No weapons or look alike weapons
• Masks (this does not include masks worn to cover the nose and mouth for medical purposes). 
• No dripping makeup or gore
• Please make sure that the costume is not so large that it prevents your child from sitting at their desk and/or blocks the view of other students.

Thank you!

Cindy Conley

8100 Old Keene Mill Springfield, VA 22152  | Main Office: 703-912-4500
Attendance: 703-912-4545 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website. 

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

이 소식지를 다른 언어로 읽으려면, 우리 웹사이트를 방문하시기 바랍니다.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى.

Yearbook pre-orders are open!

Pre-order your yearbook today! https://yearbookforever.com/schools/washington_irving_middle_school_320438/cLwxkvJ2bUUdlsILz2gm52Zx

Upcoming Important Dates

Impact Aid Forms available on ParentVUE

Please be sure to fill out your form online today!

October 31

No After School and Late Buses

November 3

End of the 1st quarter and 2-hour early dismissal 

Students will be dismissed at 12:15 pm.

November 6 & 7

No school for students

November 16

High School and Beyond (see below for more information)

 

Greetings, Irving Families!

It is hard to believe that we are one week away from the end of the 1st quarter. I have a few bits of information for you, so I apologize for the length of this note. 

• Below is a letter from Lifetouch, the company we contracted with this year to take our students’ school pictures. It appears that there were some issues with processing some of the pictures taken earlier in the year. We are working very closely with Lifetouch and will have more information about next steps soon. For now, the picture retake day has been canceled and will be rescheduled as soon as we have more information. 
• Is your child missing a hoodie, lunch box, water bottle, or bag? Chances are, it is in our lost and found! Thank you to Ms. Cheatham for organizing our lost and found so it is more accessible and visible to our students. If your child is missing something, please have them check our lost and found. You may also stop by and check our lost and found in the afternoon after school hours from 2:15-3:30. We will also have a lost and found check day on Tuesday, November 7 from 9:00 am - 12:00 pm. 
• All items not claimed by November 10 will be either disposed of or donated depending on the item. 
• In an effort to ensure we are providing opportunities for students to experience enrichment, accelerated support, and a more structured experience for our 3rd period, next week will be splitting the class into Advisory and Learning Seminar. 
• Advisory (9:00-9:41 am) will continue to be our traditional advisory lessons that include school announcements, specific school wide lessons like the Digital Citizenship lessons students participated in last week, and team challenges. 
• Learning Seminar (9:45-10:24 am) will be a time for students to participate in an interest based activity with staff and for those who need additional support, a time to participate in a rotation of content specific accelerated support. By providing these opportunities, we will be able to provide more by name and need support to our students, while also ensuring every student has time in which they are engaged in a choice activity.  For the first rotation, we have a wide variety of offerings to include things like making friendship bracelets, photography, yo-yoing, board games, chess, crafting, and a place for students to work or read quietly. I want to thank our amazing teachers for sharing their interests with our students - we can’t wait to see these experiences in action!

Lastly, I want to wish our Cross Country team all the best tomorrow as they finish out the season here at Irving MS! 

Take Care!

Cindy Conley

Principal

Federal Impact Aid Survey: Now Online

FCPS is asking all families to fill out a Federal Impact Aid Survey. To make it easier, the form is now available online in SIS ParentVUE. 

Completing this form for each school-aged child in every household is important because information from this survey results in an additional $3 million in grants each year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

Once logged in to SIS ParentVUE, click “Online Packets” in the top right corner. Then, select “Federal Impact Aid Survey.” Get more information.

Need to Register for ParentVUE? 

Learn how to activate your SISParentVUE account, so you can easily submit your survey. Find out how to get technical support for ParentVUE.

Baskets of Food for Families in Need for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time for family, food and gratitude. Many local households this year struggle to enjoy the holiday. In 2022, Alicia Strickland and Ania Cress, Realtors in our area, coordinated the donation of 38 beautiful baskets for families in need in Springfield. With your help, they will reach their goal of 100 baskets this year. Ms. Strickland and Ms. Cress  along with Hunt Valley ES, Cardinal Forest ES, Irving MS and West Springfield HS social workers and school counselors will be gifting the baskets to families in need. If you would like to donate a basket, please sign up here. Drop-off for the #BlessingBaskets will be November 15th, 2023 4:30-7pm at Ledo's Pizza and Robeks Patio at Cardinal Forest Plaza, 8324 Old Keene Mill Road, Springfield, 22152. If you would like to help organize the collections as they are received on Nov. 15th, please sign up here. Feel free to stay for happy hour at Ledo's as they will be offering special discounts.

If your family has a need for food, please reach out to Irving’s Social Worker, Traci Jamison, at [email protected]. 

High School and Beyond

Families with a current 8th grade student currently attending Irving are invited to attend High School and Beyond at Irving (in Barker Hall) on November 16th from 6:30-8:00pm. We are excited to kick off the High School Academic Advising Season with a special Presentation and Curriculum Fair specific for our rising 9th grade families. Come hear Graduation Experts discuss what to expect as your child enters high school, various options for them following high school graduation as well as have the opportunity to speak to West Springfield Department Chairs and teachers.  You will have the chance to ask all your questions about high school, graduation requirements, pathways etc. You will also get a preview of all the classes available next year.  We look forward to you joining us for our first ever offering of this program.

Conversing with Teens about Substance Use

Within this society’s culture sometimes we avoid talking about topics that make us uncomfortable but can be both lifesaving and changing, such as finances and drugs. Are there things that would have really made a difference in some of your experiences if known when younger, that can be shared with your teenager now? Here’s a few tips for talking about substance use and misuse with your teenager.

Avoid:

•     Overgeneralizations/horror stories

Ex: “People who use drugs go to jail and end up homeless.” -That is not true for most people.

•     Sharing about how you used to do drugs

Ex: “I smoked in high school, so I understand wanting to experiment.” - The THC content in marijuana is much higher than when you may have used.

•     Having loose boundaries

Ex: “It’s okay if you do it at home, but not anywhere else.” -This creates a gray area and demonstrates an acceptance for not following rules and established boundaries.

Tips:

•     Have a united front or if alone be consistent.

Both parents need to communicate the same message. No good cop, bad cop.

•     Recognize addiction in your family.

Speak the unspoken. Share information that could help your teen make an informed decision about “playing with fire” since they’re genetically predisposed.

•     Set a desired outcome for the conversation.

What do you want your teen to understand before you start the conversation?

•     Focus on their health as important and a concern versus behavior.

Avoid finger pointing literally and figuratively.

•     Set firm expectations & boundaries

Clearly explain what is and isn’t acceptable for your household and the associated consequences.

• Keep a “cool head”
• Withhold judgment
• Be direct
• Be prepared for your teen’s reaction.

Resources:

Helpful Info to Quit Vaping:

https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/health/free-e-cigarette-quit-program

FCPS video on Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drugs: https://dl.ebmcdn.net/fcps/courses/ATODParentPresentationRequired103119b/story_html5.html

Knowing the signs of Substance Abuse:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7VWGxTZrpCU 

For general questions about the FCPS Substance Abuse Prevention Program, please contact the Office of Student Safety & Wellness at: (571) 423-4270.

For further information & support:

Ken Johnson

Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist

[email protected]

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology 

***The TJ application will become available on Monday, October 23 at 4:00 pm via the TJ website.

What is TJHSST?

A FCPS regional Governor’s high school (9-12th grades) for students interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math). You can now find the new TJ Admissions Video for 2023 as well as the presentation schedule that is available to the public on their website, www.fcps.edu/tjadmissions. We strongly encourage you to view their YouTube admissions video prior to attending this meeting.

TJHSST Admissions: Contact Information

Admissions Office (general inquiries): Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Phone:571-423-3770         Email: tjadm[email protected]               Website:www.fcps.edu/tjadmissions

Irving Stays After - After School Program Registration

The After School program at Irving Middle School provides students access to high-quality activities in a safe environment for all students. The Program strives to improve academic performance, foster social, emotional, and physical well-being, all while reducing the potential for risk-taking behaviors. 

https://forms.gle/jj9RXegR3C85tJ6u6

Due to the popularity of Volleyball, Volleyball Clinic will take place after Winter Break. There are other athletic opportunities, please check the schedule in the After School Programs Folder.

Back to Basics Leadership is postponed until 11/29

Harry Potter Club is postponed until 2/22

Clubs starting next week: N/A 

THERE IS NO AFTER SCHOOL/LATE BUSES ON TUESDAY, OCTOBER 31

PTA News

SPIRIT NIGHT - Our next Spirit Night will be PANERA on November 15th. Watch this space for more information.  

SPIRIT DAY EVERY THURSDAY - All Day at Papa John's in Springfield. Order online using promo code IMS4010. You'll get 40% off all menu prices!

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1uvMIqPZsfaUqefNk619KuQ4sGYes7hWz/view?usp=sharing

(COPY & PASTE SINCE THE LINKS ARE NOT LIVE)

UPCOMING: Our next PTA Meeting will be in November. TBD - "Kids in Today's Society" presentation (formerly Hidden in Plain Sight) from our local Fairfax County Police in West Springfield. This presentation provides insight into a range of teen behavior, from risky to illegal, that the local police are currently dealing with. It is an adult only presentation. More details to follow.

We'd love for you to join the PTA! $10 Parents/Guardians; $9 additional family members; $5 Staff/Faculty

https://irvingms.memberhub.com/store?limit=21&live=true

(COPY & PASTE SINCE THE LINKS ARE NOT LIVE)

From this link you can also donate to our Headless Heroes Fund. It is a direct donation and our largest fundraiser. You will also see remaining pieces of Spirit Wear in that section. Grab it while it's there. We'll do an online sale with more items this Fall.

Feel free to reach out to learn more about the Irving PTA, or with questions you might have.

Website: https://irvingms.memberhub.com  (copy & paste link)

Email: [email protected]

8100 Old Keene Mill Springfield, VA 22152  | Main Office: 703-912-4500
Attendance: 703-912-4545 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube

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

This week we are celebrating Red Ribbon Week and encouraging students to stay away from drugs. In our newsletter on Friday, we shared the incorrect spirit week graphic. Below is the updated spirit week attire information for Red Ribbon Week. This information has already been shared with students. 

Tomorrow is a Team Challenge Day! Students will earn a point for their team if they wear clothing that supports the theme of "Teaming Up Against Drugs", Students are encouraged to wear clothing that represents their favorite group - (sports team, band, tv show/movie cast, etc.)

8100 Old Keene Mill Springfield, VA 22152  | Main Office: 703-912-4500
Attendance: 703-912-4545 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website. 

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

이 소식지를 다른 언어로 읽으려면, 우리 웹사이트를 방문하시기 바랍니다.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى.

Yearbook pre-orders are open!

Pre-order your yearbook today! https://yearbookforever.com/schools/washington_irving_middle_school_320438/cLwxkvJ2bUUdlsILz2gm52Zx

Upcoming Important Dates

Impact Aid Forms available on ParentVUE

Please be sure to fill out your form online today!

October 21 TOMORROW!

Music Boosters Car Wash - 9:00 am-12:00 pm at Irving Middle School

October 23-27

Red Ribbon Spirit Week

November 2 (8:30-10:30)

Fall picture retakes in the weight room

November 3

End of the 1st quarter and 2-hour early dismissal 

Students will be dismissed at 12:15 pm.

November 6 & 7

No school for students

November 16

High School and Beyond (see below for more information)

 

Greetings, Irving Families!

Our first spirit week was a lot of fun! It was nice to see so many students and staff dressed up each day. I think my favorite day was hat day - there were so many unique hats. This coming week is Red Ribbon Week! We are reinforcing the messages to our students to stay drug free. We are kicking off Red Ribbon Spirit week with Pajama Day to Celebrate Our Dreams! Students and staff may wear school appropriate pajamas to school. We do ask that students wear shoes to school and not slippers -we have over 1,300 people walking our halls daily - we do not want students’ slippers getting dirty and then brought back home. 

The end of October means we are quickly approaching the end of the 1st quarter! Time has flown by this first quarter and we are impressed by the academic growth students have shown in these first 9 weeks. A reminder that November 3, students will dismiss at 12:15 pm. If you give your child permission to go to “The Plaza” after school, please remind them about appropriate behavior. We are again receiving calls from businesses and patrons reporting unruly and disrespectful behavior from children who are going to the Plaza. We stress every Friday that students need to represent the ROCK attributes in and outside of school (Respect, Ownership, Communication, Kindness). We appreciate you reinforcing those attributes at home as well. 

Lastly, we would like to wish our Cross Country runners good luck tomorrow! The team will be heading to Liberty Middle School for the races. We are excited to share that we will host the last race of the season on Saturday, October 28! If you would like to volunteer (7:00am-1:00pm)  to help make the meet a success, please complete this Google Form. No need to have a child in Cross Country to volunteer - we will need a lot of help on this day. We appreciate your consideration.

Take Care!

Cindy Conley

Principal

Virginia’s Sales Tax Holiday

Virginia’s three-day sales tax holiday starts Friday, October 20, and ends Sunday, October 22. During the sales tax holiday, you can buy qualifying school supplies, clothing, footwear, emergency preparedness items, and Energy Star™ and WaterSense™ products without paying sales tax. View the Sales Tax Holiday Guidelines for more information.

Federal Impact Aid Survey: Now Online

FCPS is asking all families to fill out a Federal Impact Aid Survey. To make it easier, the form is now available online in SIS ParentVUE. 

Completing this form for each school-aged child in every household is important because information from this survey results in an additional $3 million in grants each year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

Once logged in to SIS ParentVUE, click “Online Packets” in the top right corner. Then, select “Federal Impact Aid Survey.” Get more information.

Need to Register for ParentVUE? 

Learn how to activate your SISParentVUE account, so you can easily submit your survey. Find out how to get technical support for ParentVUE.

Baskets of Food for Families in Need for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time for family, food and gratitude. Many local households this year struggle to enjoy the holiday. In 2022, Alicia Strickland and Ania Cress, Realtors in our area, coordinated the donation of 38 beautiful baskets for families in need in Springfield. With your help, they will reach their goal of 100 baskets this year. Ms. Strickland and Ms. Cress  along with Hunt Valley ES, Cardinal Forest ES, Irving MS and West Springfield HS social workers and school counselors will be gifting the baskets to families in need. If you would like to donate a basket, please sign up here. Drop-off for the #BlessingBaskets will be November 15th, 2023 4:30-7pm at Ledo's Pizza and Robeks Patio at Cardinal Forest Plaza, 8324 Old Keene Mill Road, Springfield, 22152. If you would like to help organize the collections as they are received on Nov. 15th, please sign up here. Feel free to stay for happy hour at Ledo's as they will be offering special discounts.

If your family has a need for food, please reach out to Irving’s Social Worker, Traci Jamison, at [email protected]. 

High School and Beyond

Families with a current 8th grade student currently attending Irving are invited to attend High School and Beyond at Irving (in Barker Hall) on November 16th from 6:30-8:00pm. We are excited to kick off the High School Academic Advising Season with a special Presentation and Curriculum Fair specific for our rising 9th grade families. Come hear Graduation Experts discuss what to expect as your child enters high school, various options for them following high school graduation as well as have the opportunity to speak to West Springfield Department Chairs and teachers.  You will have the chance to ask all your questions about high school, graduation requirements, pathways etc. You will also get a preview of all the classes available next year.  We look forward to you joining us for our first ever offering of this program.

How to Prevent Substance Misuse

It’s true, teens are more likely to listen to peers rather than their parents, it is part of this stage in development. When a baby is born, the brain’s sole responsibility is focused on keeping them alive. As they grow into adolescence, finding their tribe becomes important. Think about your top three happiest memories up to this point in life. What were you doing? How did you feel? Who was there? Each of these memories was likely a shared experience with others. Likely you were laughing and smiling with loved ones, maybe food was involved. Now shift to think about your three worst memories. What was going on? How did you feel? Who was there? In each of these memories, you likely were alone or felt alone.

Substance use becomes a problem for some because they either are or feel alone. Connection is an important aspect in our everyday lives. Fairfax County’s “Three to Succeed” describes protective factors to help youth achieve their higher selves. If a child has at least three of these protective factors, they are more likely to succeed in life. They include: having high personal integrity, trusted adults to talk to, performing community service, participating in extracurricular activities, teacher recognition of effort and good work, and parents availability for help. What is noticed is that five of the six protective factors involve connection with someone else, and the first protective factor describes connection with self.

Helpful Resources:

Knowing the Signs: Substance Abuse & Today’s Youth

Adverse Childhood Experiences

Substance Use Prevention & Encouraging Healthy Brain Development

REVIVE Training for Opioid Overdoses

FCPS Substance Abuse Prevention Program 

For general questions about the FCPS Substance Abuse Prevention Program, please contact the Office of Student Safety & Wellness at: (571) 423-4270 and be sure to follow us on Twitter at @FCPSSAPS.

For further information & support

Ken Johnson

Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist

[email protected]

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology 

***The TJ application will become available on Monday, October 23 at 4:00 pm via the TJ website.

What is TJHSST?

A FCPS regional Governor’s high school (9-12th grades) for students interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math). You can now find the new TJ Admissions Video for 2023 as well as the presentation schedule that is available to the public on their website, www.fcps.edu/tjadmissions. We strongly encourage you to view their YouTube admissions video prior to attending this meeting.

TJHSST Admissions: Contact Information

Admissions Office (general inquiries): Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Phone:571-423-3770         Email: tjadm[email protected]               Website:www.fcps.edu/tjadmissions

Irving Stays After - After School Program Registration

The After School program at Irving Middle School provides students access to high-quality activities in a safe environment for all students. The Program strives to improve academic performance, foster social, emotional, and physical well-being, all while reducing the potential for risk-taking behaviors. 

https://forms.gle/jj9RXegR3C85tJ6u6

Information about Cross Country will be shared by Coach Sommers. Please remember students cannot leave school and return for the after school program and/or practice. 

Back to Basics Leadership - is a 6-week course, students are expected to attend all sessions, if there are multiple conflicts with your student's schedule - please consider the Spring session (1/17 - 3/6)

Clubs starting next week:

Whisk Takers Organizational Meeting - Tuesday, October 24, 1st block. This is a requirement, Ms. Wilson reviews expectations, safety rules/protocols and allergies. This is for students that did NOT attend the previous organizational meeting.

Sewing Club - Wednesday, October 25, 1st block

Harry Potter Club is postponed until Thursday, February 22

*The After School Schedule, shows what is coming soon for October (only on All Students)*

PTA News

SPIRIT NIGHT - Our next Spirit Night will be PANERA on November 15th. Watch this space for more information.  

SPIRIT DAY EVERY THURSDAY - All Day at Papa John's in Springfield. Order online using promo code IMS4010. You'll get 40% off all menu prices!

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1uvMIqPZsfaUqefNk619KuQ4sGYes7hWz/view?usp=sharing

(COPY & PASTE SINCE THE LINKS ARE NOT LIVE)

UPCOMING: Our next PTA Meeting will be in November. TBD - "Kids in Today's Society" presentation (formerly Hidden in Plain Sight) from our local Fairfax County Police in West Springfield. This presentation provides insight into a range of teen behavior, from risky to illegal, that the local police are currently dealing with. It is an adult only presentation. More details to follow.

We'd love for you to join the PTA! $10 Parents/Guardians; $9 additional family members; $5 Staff/Faculty

https://irvingms.memberhub.com/store?limit=21&live=true

(COPY & PASTE SINCE THE LINKS ARE NOT LIVE)

From this link you can also donate to our Headless Heroes Fund. It is a direct donation and our largest fundraiser. You will also see remaining pieces of Spirit Wear in that section. Grab it while it's there. We'll do an online sale with more items this Fall.

Feel free to reach out to learn more about the Irving PTA, or with questions you might have.

Website: https://irvingms.memberhub.com  (copy & paste link)

Email: [email protected]

8100 Old Keene Mill Springfield, VA 22152  | Main Office: 703-912-4500
Attendance: 703-912-4545 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website. 

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

이 소식지를 다른 언어로 읽으려면, 우리 웹사이트를 방문하시기 바랍니다.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى.

Yearbook pre-orders are open!

Pre-order your yearbook today! https://yearbookforever.com/schools/washington_irving_middle_school_320438/cLwxkvJ2bUUdlsILz2gm52Zx

Upcoming Important Dates

October 16-20

Digital Citizenship Spirit Week (see below)

October 16

Impact Aid Forms available on ParentVUE

October 21

Music Boosters Car Wash - 9:00 am-12:00 pm at Irving Middle School

October 23-27

Red Ribbon Spirit Week

November 2 (8:30-10:30)

Fall picture retakes in the weight room

November 16

High School and Beyond (see below for more information)

 

Greetings, Irving Families!

Mentoring is a great way to support our local community and can have a lasting positive impact on adolescents. At Irving Middle School, we are in need of caring adults who can support and uplift our students. Already this year we have almost 30 students who are in need of a mentor to act as an additional positive role model and encouraging adult in their life. We want to offer this opportunity to our parents/guardians as a way to partner with our school. 

We will help with logistics of the program, including providing training for you and obtaining parent permission for you to work with the student. Mentoring takes place for one hour per week during our after school block, from 2:30-3:30 PM. You can pick a day (Monday-Thursday) that works best with your schedule, and we will arrange for you to meet with your student . You can play games, help with homework, walk and talk–whatever works to help you connect with your student! We will provide you with tools and resources to get started…all you have to do is commit to working with a student once a week for the remainder of the school year!

Our mentoring coordinator, Suzy Kiefaber, will be happy to meet with you personally to go over some of the details.  Another option is a brief 30-minute presentation that she can deliver to you. This presentation outlines the power of mentoring as well as the logistics involved, and would provide you with the opportunity to ask questions.

Here are some links with further information.

*FCPS Mentoring Program https://www.fcps.edu/get-involved/be-mentor*FCPS Business and Community Partnerships https://www.fcps.edu/get-involved/business-and-community-partnerships/ignite-partnerships

If you are interested in serving the Irving Community as a mentor, please email Suzy Kiefaber at [email protected]. 

Take Care!

Cindy Conley

Principal

Digital Citizenship Week Spirit Days

We will kick off Digital Citizenship Week with Monday’s School Spirit day and team challenge! Students and staff are invited to wear school gear or colors (blue and white) to support a safe and responsible online Irving community. See the rest of our Spirit Days below.

Food for Neighbors

This holiday season, let's come together to make a difference in the lives of food-insecure students in our community. Food For Neighbors plans to provide local families with Holiday Meals at Thanksgiving. Visit the FFN website today and learn how you can help students and their families experience the joy of gathering for a holiday meal. Every $50 donation provides a meal for a family. Your generosity can make a world of difference for local students!

High School and Beyond

Families with a current 8th grade student currently attending Irving are invited to attend High School and Beyond at Irving (in Barker Hall) on November 16th from 6:30-8:00pm. We are excited to kick off the High School Academic Advising Season with a special Presentation and Curriculum Fair specific for our rising 9th grade families. Come hear Graduation Experts discuss what to expect as your child enters high school, various options for them following high school graduation as well as have the opportunity to speak to West Springfield Department Chairs and teachers.  You will have the chance to ask all your questions about high school, graduation requirements, pathways etc. You will also get a preview of all the classes available next year.  We look forward to you joining us for our first ever offering of this program. 

How to Prevent Substance Misuse

It’s true, teens are more likely to listen to peers rather than their parents, it is part of this stage in development. When a baby is born, the brain’s sole responsibility is focused on keeping them alive. As they grow into adolescence, finding their tribe becomes important. Think about your top three happiest memories up to this point in life. What were you doing? How did you feel? Who was there? Each of these memories was likely a shared experience with others. Likely you were laughing and smiling with loved ones, maybe food was involved. Now shift to think about your three worst memories. What was going on? How did you feel? Who was there? In each of these memories, you likely were alone or felt alone.

Substance use becomes a problem for some because they either are or feel alone. Connection is an important aspect in our everyday lives. Fairfax County’s “Three to Succeed” describes protective factors to help youth achieve their higher selves. If a child has at least three of these protective factors, they are more likely to succeed in life. They include: having high personal integrity, trusted adults to talk to, performing community service, participating in extracurricular activities, teacher recognition of effort and good work, and parents availability for help. What is noticed is that five of the six protective factors involve connection with someone else, and the first protective factor describes connection with self.

Helpful Resources:

Knowing the Signs: Substance Abuse & Today’s Youth

Adverse Childhood Experiences

Substance Use Prevention & Encouraging Healthy Brain Development

REVIVE Training for Opioid Overdoses

FCPS Substance Abuse Prevention Program 

For general questions about the FCPS Substance Abuse Prevention Program, please contact the Office of Student Safety & Wellness at: (571) 423-4270 and be sure to follow us on Twitter at @FCPSSAPS.

For further information & support

Ken Johnson

Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist

[email protected]

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology 

***The TJ application will become available on Monday, October 23 at 4:00 pm via the TJ website.

What is TJHSST?

A FCPS regional Governor’s high school (9-12th grades) for students interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math). You can now find the new TJ Admissions Video for 2023 as well as the presentation schedule that is available to the public on their website, www.fcps.edu/tjadmissions. We strongly encourage you to view their YouTube admissions video prior to attending this meeting.

TJHSST Admissions: Contact Information

Admissions Office (general inquiries): Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Phone:571-423-3770         Email: tjadmi[email protected]               Website:www.fcps.edu/tjadmissions

TJ Science Fair

Do you love science and research?  The TJ Investigative Science Outreach student-led organization at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology will be hosting the 11th annual science fair on March 16, 2024 at TJ and they are inviting all 5th-8th grade students from FCPS to participate (Admission to the science fair is completely free). Participants will complete a research project of their choice and present at this fair. This organization will help students prepare for this project-fair by holding multiple sessions to teach students important skills in STEM like brainstorming, collecting data, presenting, writing an experiment summary, using statistics, creating an experimental diagram, and so much more!. The first interest/brainstorming session is Friday October 6th, 2023 at 6:00 pm at TJHSST. All interested students sign up here: https://forms.gle/RMfQYuvACK3YajRw8

Irving Stays After - After School Program Registration

The After School program at Irving Middle School provides students access to high-quality activities in a safe environment for all students. The Program strives to improve academic performance, foster social, emotional, and physical well-being, all while reducing the potential for risk-taking behaviors. 

https://forms.gle/jj9RXegR3C85tJ6u6

Information about Cross Country will be shared by Coach Sommers. Please remember students cannot leave school and return for the after school program and/or practice. 

Clubs starting next week:

FCCLA - Monday, October 16, both blocks; only available to FACS students (1st and/or 2nd Semester students)

Cheer/Dance - TUESDAY, October 17, first block

Whisk Takers - Tuesday, October 17, both blocks; students must see Mrs. Wilson if they did not attend the organizational meeting prior to 10/17. It is a requirement, Ms. Wilson reviews expectations, safety rules/protocols and allergies.

Back to Basics Leadership - Wednesday, October 18, both blocks. This is a 6-week course, students are expected to attend all sessions, if there are multiple conflicts with your student's schedule - please consider the Spring session (1/17 - 3/6)

*The After School Schedule, shows what is coming soon for October (only on All Students)*

Library News

Given our healthy circulation statistics, we see that our Irving students are reading!  We enjoy seeing students visiting the library each day during break time, where they return and check out books, read, play board or card games with friends, or work on a puzzle.  Slow progress has been made in the completion of our 1000 piece puzzle this week, but have several very dedicated students who come in each day eager to work on it.  In last week's "Irving Says" poll revealed that 76% of our students would rather "Be right all of the time, but not listened to," than "Be wrong all of the time, but be influential."  

Around fifty students registered to attend a special event in the library on Thursday.  On our "Friday the 13th Eve Read-Aloud" event, Theatre teacher Tim King shared his talents with a dramatic reading of "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow," the most famous short story by author Washington Irving.  Students enjoyed the slightly spooky atmosphere and listened intently while munching some popcorn.  Stay tuned for more special events to come.  Students interested in reading activities may want to sign up for "Battle of the Books," an ongoing club sponsored by Mr. Brizek, or Ms. Monk's after-school book club, "Readers Unite."

PTA News

SPIRIT NIGHT - Our next Spirit Night will be 4-8pm Tuesday, October 17th at Chipotle in West Springfield. Order online for pickup using promo code VZWNKXR or present flyer in restaurant.   

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1M6BZDjtk9ZazO73-wRSNfCDg6pQOtV-Z/view?usp=sharing  (COPY & PASTE SINCE THE LINKS ARE NOT LIVE)

SPIRIT DAY EVERY THURSDAY - All Day at Papa John's in Springfield. Order online using promo code IMS4010. You'll get 40% off all menu prices!

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1uvMIqPZsfaUqefNk619KuQ4sGYes7hWz/view?usp=sharing  (COPY & PASTE SINCE THE LINKS ARE NOT LIVE)

UPCOMING: Our next PTA Meeting will be in November. TBD - "Kids in Today's Society" presentation (formerly Hidden in Plain Sight) from our local Fairfax County Police in West Springfield. This presentation provides insight into a range of teen behavior, from risky to illegal, that the local police are currently dealing with. It is an adult only presentation. More details to follow.

We'd love for you to join the PTA! $10 Parents/Guardians; $9 additional family members; $5 Staff/Faculty

https://irvingms.memberhub.com/store?limit=21&live=true  (COPY & PASTE SINCE THE LINKS ARE NOT LIVE)

From this link you can also donate to our Headless Heroes Fund. It is a direct donation and our largest fundraiser. You will also see remaining pieces of Spirit Wear in that section. Grab it while it's there. We'll do an online sale with more items this Fall.

Feel free to reach out to learn more about the Irving PTA, or with questions you might have.

Website: https://irvingms.memberhub.com  (copy & paste link)

Email: [email protected]

8100 Old Keene Mill Springfield, VA 22152  | Main Office: 703-912-4500
Attendance: 703-912-4545 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube

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

The Irving MS Music Booster’s Car Wash is canceled for

We hope you have a great long weekend!

 

8100 Old Keene Mill Springfield, VA 22152  | Main Office: 703-912-4500
Attendance: 703-912-4545 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website. 

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

이 소식지를 다른 언어로 읽으려면, 우리 웹사이트를 방문하시기 바랍니다.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى.

Yearbook pre-orders are open!

Pre-order your yearbook today! https://yearbookforever.com/schools/washington_irving_middle_school_320438/cLwxkvJ2bUUdlsILz2gm52Zx

Upcoming Important Dates

Saturday, October 7

Music Boosters Car Wash - 9:00 am-12:00 pm at Irving Middle School! TOMORROW!

October 9

Student Holiday

October 11

No After School Program or Late Buses

October 16-20

Digital Citizenship Spirit Week

October 23-27

Red Ribbon Spirit Week

 

Greetings, Irving Families!

Congratulations to all of our Cross Country student athletes who participated in the first Cross Country meet in FCPS on Saturday, September 30! Irving took 1st, 2nd, 4th, and 5th place in the boys' race and 4th place for the girls' race. In addition to seeing so many proud students and families last weekend, one of the highlights of the day was seeing the true spirit of being a good sport as the last two runners in the girls' race, an Irving student and a Liberty student, crossed the finish line holding hands. I could not think of a better ending to a fantastic day. 

We have so many talented students at Irving, from music, art, reading, acting, creating, dancing and running - Irving students are truly amazing! Tomorrow, our outstanding music students, teachers, and our Music Boosters will be holding their annual Fall Car Wash from 9:00-12:00 pm out front of our school. Donations are welcome and can be made via cash or PayPal.

Coming up starting the week of October 16, is Digital Citizenship Week! Students will be learning about what it means to be a good digital citizen during our 3rd period advisory lessons. To help remind students about what it means to be a good digital citizen, we also connect a spirit week and a dress theme for each day of the week. See the flier below to start planning your spirit week outfits! Students will earn team points for the yearlong Team Challenge by participating in the spirit week themes. The following week, October 23-27, is our annual Red Ribbon Week hosted by SCA. Red Ribbon week is a national campaign that helps encourage students to be drug-free. For more information about Red Ribbon Week, please click this link: https://www.redribbon.org/.

Lastly, we want to wish the West Springfield Spartans good luck tonight as they take on Robinson Secondary School at the WSHS homecoming football game tonight at 7:00 pm. A friendly reminder, all elementary and middle school students MUST be with a supervising adult who STAYS at the game to be let into the football game tonight. 

Please stay safe this weekend! 

Take Care!

Cindy Conley

Principal

Headphones

The 23-24 school year supply list includes headphones.  Please make sure your student brings them in daily.  Students on free and reduced lunch may visit their counselor to get a pair of headphones.

Food for Neighbors

We had a great turn out for volunteers and donations for our Red Bag Collection on September 9! 

Food for Neighbors is an organization committed to helping local teens struggling with hunger. The food donated goes straight to students and families in Springfield and neighboring communities.

With your support, we can reach even more students in need. Participation is as simple as filling a Food For Neighbors Red Bag once every other month and putting it on your porch on our pick up days. We provide the bags, a desired food list, and pick-up date reminder texts. Our next collection day is November 11th. If you would like to donate food, please register as a Red Bag Donor here. If you would like to volunteer as a driver to pick up food or to help sort the food once it is delivered to Irving on our collection days, please sign up here.

If your student needs extra food for the weekend (soup/pasta, crackers, granola bars, oatmeal, fruit snack or milk/juice), please email Meg Gollinger at [email protected].

Red Ribbon Week

Enrique (Kiki) Camarena was a Mexican-American man working for the DEA after serving in the Marine Corps, being a fireman, police officer, and deputy sheriff in California. While on assignment in Mexico for four years, he was on the trail of the country’s biggest marijuana and cocaine traffickers. He was getting close to exposing a multi-billion dollar drug pipeline in 1985, until he was kidnapped that February. He was headed to lunch with his wife when he was last seen being thrown into a van by masked men, his body wasn’t discovered until a month later.

After his death, “Camarena Clubs” were launched in his hometown of Calexico, California. Hundreds wore red ribbons and pledged to lead a drug-free life in his honor. Then President Ronald Reagan was in office, so club members presented a proclamation to First Lady Nancy Reagan which brought it national attention. The campaign became official in 1988 by the National Family Partnership with President Reagan and “Just Say No” creator Mrs. Reagan as honorary chairpersons. Red Ribbon Week is celebrated annually from October 23-31st.

For general questions about the FCPS Substance Abuse Prevention Program, please contact The Office of Student Safety & Wellness at: (571) 423-4270 and be sure to follow us on Twitter at @FCPSSAPS.

For further information & support:

Kenneth Johnson

Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist

[email protected]

A Google Earth: special preview on “The Life of DEA Special Agent Kiki Camarena”.

Sources & Resources:

DEA

Fairfax CSB Opioid Info

REVIVE Training for Opioid Overdoses 

Medication Disposal

Teen Substance Use

FCPS Substance Abuse Prevention Program

DEA Drug Take Back Day

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology 

***The TJ application will become available on Monday, October 23 at 4:00 pm via the TJ website.

What is TJHSST?

A FCPS regional Governor’s high school (9-12th grades) for students interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math). You can now find the new TJ Admissions Video for 2023 as well as the presentation schedule that is available to the public on their website, www.fcps.edu/tjadmissions. We strongly encourage you to view their YouTube admissions video prior to attending this meeting.

TJHSST Admissions: Contact Information

Admissions Office (general inquiries): Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Phone:571-423-3770         Email: tjadmi[email protected]               Website:www.fcps.edu/tjadmissions

TJ Science Fair

Do you love science and research?  The TJ Investigative Science Outreach student-led organization at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology will be hosting the 11th annual science fair on March 16, 2024 at TJ and they are inviting all 5th-8th grade students from FCPS to participate (Admission to the science fair is completely free). Participants will complete a research project of their choice and present at this fair. This organization will help students prepare for this project-fair by holding multiple sessions to teach students important skills in STEM like brainstorming, collecting data, presenting, writing an experiment summary, using statistics, creating an experimental diagram, and so much more!. The first interest/brainstorming session is Friday October 6th, 2023 at 6:00 pm at TJHSST. All interested students sign up here: https://forms.gle/RMfQYuvACK3YajRw8

Irving Stays After - After School Program Registration

The After School program at Irving Middle School provides students access to high-quality activities in a safe environment for all students. The Program strives to improve academic performance, foster social, emotional, and physical well-being, all while reducing the potential for risk-taking behaviors. 

https://forms.gle/jj9RXegR3C85tJ6u6

Information about Cross Country will be shared by Coach Sommers. Please remember students cannot leave school and return for the after school program and/or practice. 

Clubs starting next week:

Open Gym - Tuesday, October 10, first block

SCA Interest Meeting - Tuesday, October 10, first block

*Volleyball Teams - optional practice, Wednesday, October 11, both blocks; must provide your own transportation, THERE ARE NO LATE BUSES

Harry Potter Club - Thursday, October 12, first block

*The After School Schedule, shows what is coming soon for October (only on All Students)*

Library News

Irving Says…

A new interactive display in the library this school year is that of a weekly poll.  Last week’s question revealed an overwhelming majority of students would rather be a wizard than a superhero.  This week, students voted between “always being right but not listened to” versus “always being wrong, but being influential.”  Tune in for results  next week!

This was a busy week in the library, as many 8th grade Civics classes visited for a read-aloud and a follow-up discussion of a book about citizenship and the 14th Amendment.

Students interested in book-related activities, such as Readers Unite Club and Battle of the Books should inquire in the library with Ms. Monk or Mr. Brizek.

PTA News

We'd love for you to join the PTA! $10 Parents/Guardians; $9 additional family members; $5 Staff/Faculty. https://irvingms.memberhub.com/store?limit=21&live=true (COPY & PASTE SINCE THE LINKS ARE NOT LIVE)

From this link you can also donate to our Headless Heroes Fund. It is a direct donation and our largest fundraiser. You will also see remaining pieces of Spirit Wear in that section. Grab it while it's there. We'll do an online sale with more items in October. 

SPIRIT NIGHT at Papa John's on Rolling every Thursday!! Get pizza - Support the PTA. What's a spirit night you ask? A local restaurant provides the PTA with a percentage of the sales from a given night or day. Our local Papa John's has offered to do it EVERY THURSDAY! It's a WIN-WIN-WIN: your kids eat, you get a break from cooking, and Irving PTA makes money. Oh - AND - you're supporting a local business or franchise! You can't afford NOT to do it. 

Upcoming: Our next PTA Meeting will be in November. TBD - "Kids in Today's Society" presentation (formerly Hidden in Plain Sight) from our local Fairfax County Police in West Springfield. This presentation provides insight into a range of teen behavior, from risky to illegal, that the local police are currently dealing with. It is an adult only presentation. More details to follow. 

Feel free to reach out to learn more about the PTA, or with any questions you might have.

Website: https://irvingms.memberhub.com

Email: [email protected]

8100 Old Keene Mill Springfield, VA 22152  | Main Office: 703-912-4500
Attendance: 703-912-4545 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website. 

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

이 소식지를 다른 언어로 읽으려면, 우리 웹사이트를 방문하시기 바랍니다.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى.

Upcoming Important Dates

September 27

Irving 101 - 6:30-8:00 pm - join us for helpful info for the school year! 

Sessions include

• Schoology & SIS (7th & 8th grade)
• Signs of Suicide Lesson Preview (7th grade only)
• Standards Based Grading & Portrait of a Graduate Presentations of Learning (7th & 8th grade)

So that we can properly prepare for parents/guardians who are planning to attend, please complete this form.

September 28 & 29

Picture Days in PE Class

September 28

PTA Spirit Night - Papa Johns (and every Thursday after!) Thank you, Papa Johns!

 

Greetings, Irving Families!

And we are off and running! Our Cross Country team of over 120 students had their first practice on Monday. It is awesome to see so many students interested in training to run the 2 mile course. We want to thank Coach Damani Sommers, Athletic Coordinator, Debi McGuire, and After School Activities Specialist, Natalie Duncan for getting things started. As with any brand new program, there have been bumps along the way, but we are continuing to work out how to successfully hold our practices with such a large team. I also want to thank the parents/guardians who are volunteering and assisting with coaching. 

We had our first Virginia Growth Assessment (VGA) this week in reading this week. Students did a nice job of following our testing protocols of ensuring all of their devices were off and away which ensured a smooth testing environment. Next week, students in Math 7, Math 7 Honors, and Pre-Algebra will take the Math VGA and students in Algebra and Geometry will be working on setting goals for math. To ensure students start with a strong foundation to perform at their best each day, please ensure students are going to bed so that they get at least 7-8 hours of sleep, eat breakfast, and drink plenty of water. We serve breakfast every day - students can purchase breakfast beginning at 7:00 am. 

Coming up next week is our Irving 101 on Wednesday, September 27 from 6:30-8:00 pm- please RSVP using the link in the calendar above! We will share information about Schoology/ParentVue, the Signs of Suicide lesson preview, and Standards Based Grading/Portrait of a Graduate. 

Also next week we will have our Picture Days. Please remind your child that they will have their school picture in their PE class on either Thursday, September 28 or Friday, September 29. Students will receive information about how to order pictures through their PE class. 

Please stay safe this weekend! 

Take Care!

Cindy Conley

Principal

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology 

***The TJ application will become available on Monday, October 23 at 4:00 pm via the TJ website.

What is TJHSST?

A FCPS regional Governor’s high school (9-12th grades) for students interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math). You can now find the new TJ Admissions Video for 2023 as well as the presentation schedule that is available to the public on their website, www.fcps.edu/tjadmissions. We strongly encourage you to view their YouTube admissions video prior to attending this meeting.

TJHSST Admissions: Contact Information

Admissions Office (general inquiries): Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Phone:571-423-3770         Email: tjadm[email protected]               Website:www.fcps.edu/tjadmissions

TJ Science Fair

Do you love science and research?  The TJ Investigative Science Outreach student-led organization at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology will be hosting the 11th annual science fair on March 16, 2024 at TJ and they are inviting all 5th-8th grade students from FCPS to participate (Admission to the science fair is completely free). Participants will complete a research project of their choice and present at this fair. This organization will help students prepare for this project-fair by holding multiple sessions to teach students important skills in STEM like brainstorming, collecting data, presenting, writing an experiment summary, using statistics, creating an experimental diagram, and so much more!. The first interest/brainstorming session is Friday October 6th, 2023 at 6:00 pm at TJHSST. All interested students sign up here: https://forms.gle/RMfQYuvACK3YajRw8

Yearbook pre-orders are open!

Pre-order your yearbook today!

https://yearbookforever.com/schools/washington_irving_middle_school_320438/cLwxkvJ2bUUdlsILz2gm52Zx

Food for Neighbors

We had a great turn out for volunteers and donations for our Red Bag Collection on September 9! 

Food for Neighbors is an organization committed to helping local teens struggling with hunger. The food donated goes straight to students and families in Springfield and neighboring communities.

With your support, we can reach even more students in need. Participation is as simple as filling a Food For Neighbors Red Bag once every other month and putting it on your porch on our pick up days. We provide the bags, a desired food list, and pick-up date reminder texts. Our next collection day is November 11th. If you would like to donate food, please register as a Red Bag Donor here. If you would like to volunteer as a driver to pick up food or to help sort the food once it is delivered to Irving on our collection days, please sign up here.

If your student needs extra food for the weekend (soup/pasta, crackers, granola bars, oatmeal, fruit snack or milk/juice), please email Meg Gollinger at [email protected]. 

World Language Credit Exam

Can your child read and write proficiently in another language? If the answer is YES than you may want to register them for the World Language Credit Exam

What is the World Language Credit Exam?

A free, optional test offered by FCPS to provide students the opportunity to EARN HIGH SCHOOL CREDIT for their ability to read and write in another language. This is a rigorous test that assesses language experience (example, student can read entire newspaper in another language and write an essay using complete sentences).

Why take the World Language Credit Exam?

If students pass the exam, they can earn up to three (3) high school credits towards the advanced diploma language graduation requirements.

When is the World Language Credit Exam?

The 2023 World Languages Credit Exam will be administered on November 8, 9, and 13, 2023. You will only be registered for one date. Registration opens on September 5 and closes on October 5, at 4 p.m. Late registrations will not be accepted.

If you are interested in registering your child for this test, please email your child’s assigned school counselor:

8th Grade: Mrs. Pareja – [email protected], Mr. Frenck – [email protected]

7th Grade: Ms. Nelson – [email protected], Ms. Kiefaber – [email protected]

Irving Stays After - After School Program Registration

The After School program at Irving Middle School provides students access to high-quality activities in a safe environment for all students. The Program strives to improve academic performance, foster social, emotional, and physical well-being, all while reducing the potential for risk-taking behaviors. 

https://forms.gle/jj9RXegR3C85tJ6u6

Information about Cross Country will be shared by Coach Sommers. Please remember students cannot leave school and return for the after school program and/or practice. 

Volleyball Assessments will be held on September 26 - September 28, during the 2nd block of after school. This process is competitive and skill based, for safety reasons (because a lot of students are interested, however, capacity and ratios limit us) a good portion of students will be referred/redirected to participate in Volleyball Clinic to polish skills. Volleyball Clinic will be held on Mondays and Wednesdays, starting first block Monday, October 2nd.

Clubs starting next week:

MakerSpace/Robotics - Tuesday, September 26

Volleyball Assessments - Tuesday, September 26 - Thursday, September 28

Appian Board Game Club - Wednesday, September 27

College Partnership (CPP) - Thursday, September 28

Minecraft Club - Thursday, September 28

*The After School Schedule, shows what is coming soon for October (only on All Students)*

Library News

Irving Says…

A new interactive display in the library this school year is that of a weekly poll.  Last week’s question revealed that 76% of students would rather “never eat their favorite food again,” than “only eat their favorite food always.”  560 students voted for the first option, while 173 cast a vote for sticking to eating only their favorite food.

This was a busy week in the library, as all of the English 8 classes came in for book talks and shared readings, as an introduction to the books that they will choose from for their first quarter novel study.    

Ask your student if they can remember what books they heard about, and what they hope to read.

PTA News

Welcome to the weekend and the official start of Fall!

We'd love for you to join the PTA! $10 Parents/Guardians; $9 additional family members; $5 Staff/Faculty

https://irvingms.memberhub.com/store?limit=21&live=true (COPY & PASTE SINCE THE LINKS ARE NOT LIVE)

From this link you can also donate to our Headless Heroes Fund. It is a direct donation and our largest fundraiser. You will also see remaining pieces of Spirit Wear in that section. Grab it while it's there. We'll do an online sale with more items in October. 

Our FIRST SPIRIT NIGHT will be at Papa John's on September 28...and then every Thursday after that! Get pizza - Support the PTA. What's a spirit night you ask? A local restaurant provides the PTA with a percentage of the sales from a given night or day. Our local Papa John's has offered to do it EVERY THURSDAY! It's a WIN-WIN-WIN: your kids eat, you get a break from cooking, and Irving PTA makes money. Oh - AND - you're supporting a local business or franchise! You can't afford NOT to do it. 

Upcoming: Our next PTA Meeting will be in November. TBD - "Kids in Today's Society" presentation (formerly Hidden in Plain Sight) from our local Fairfax County Police in West Springfield. This presentation provides insight into a range of teen behavior, from risky to illegal, that the local police are currently dealing with. It is an adult only presentation. More details to follow. 

Feel free to reach out to learn more about the PTA, or with any questions you might have.

Website: https://irvingms.memberhub.com

Email: [email protected]

8100 Old Keene Mill Springfield, VA 22152  | Main Office: 703-912-4500
Attendance: 703-912-4545 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube

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

Greetings, Irving Families!

A great week ending with an absolutely gorgeous Friday! Thank you for the phenomenal turn out to our first (in-person) Back to School Night since 2019. It was so much fun seeing families in our classrooms again. We also want to thank Dr. Ponce, FCPS Chief of Schools, for joining us on Tuesday as well. 

Coming up on Monday, is the first practice for our newly created Cross Country team. If you have a student who is interested and has not signed up, please be sure to read the information in the Schoology Cross Country Folder and ensure your child has all the forms turned in, so they can participate. We just received information about where our first meet will be and that information has been added to the Cross Country folder in the Schoology All Parents Course and the Schoology All Students Course as well. 

Lastly, a reminder that we need to have students bring in fully charged laptops everyday, along with their wired headphones. Students read, watch, listen, research, create, and complete work on their laptops throughout the school day. So that students can participate completely - we ask that you remind your child to charge their laptop and make sure their charged laptop and headphones are packed in their backpack each day. Thank you for your support!

Take Care!

Cindy Conley

Principal

New Information from Irving MS Food for Neighbors

We had a great turn out for volunteers and donations for our Red Bag Collection on September 9! 

Food for Neighbors is an organization committed to helping local teens struggling with hunger. The food donated goes straight to students and families in Springfield and neighboring communities.

With your support, we can reach even more students in need. Participation is as simple as filling a Food For Neighbors Red Bag once every other month and putting it on your porch on our pick up days. We provide the bags, a desired food list, and pick-up date reminder texts. Our next collection day is November 11th. If you would like to donate food, please register as a Red Bag Donor here. If you would like to volunteer as a driver to pick up food or to help sort the food once it is delivered to Irving on our collection days, please sign up here.

If your student needs extra food for the weekend (soup/pasta, crackers, granola bars, oatmeal, fruit snack or milk/juice), please email Meg Gollinger at [email protected]. 

Irving Stays After

The After School program at Irving Middle School provides students access to high-quality activities in a safe environment for all students. The Program strives to improve academic performance, foster social, emotional, and physical well-being, all while reducing the potential for risk-taking behaviors. 

https://forms.gle/jj9RXegR3C85tJ6u6

Monday, September 11 - will serve as the first day of the After School Program and Late Buses. Activities and Clubs will not meet, however, after school with their teacher, Homework Club and Hollow Lounge will be held, students are encouraged to attend and familiarize themselves with staying after. 

Art Club - starts Monday, September 18, 1st block

Readers Unite (bka Book Club) - starts Monday, September 18, 1st block

Soccer Club - starts Monday, September 18, 1st block

Chess Club - starts Tuesday, September 19, 1st block

Washington Irving Theater Society (WITS) - starts Tuesday, September 19, 1st block

Dungeons & Dragons - starts Thursday, September 21, 1st block

Gardening Club - starts Thursday, September 21, 1st block

Irving Authors - starts Thursday, September 21, Both blocks

T.R.I.B.E. (Trustworthy, Relentless, Intelligent, Brave and Enthusiastic) - starts Thursday, September 21, 1st block

Smash Bros Club - starts Thursday, September 21, 2nd block

Irving MS Library News

Irving Says…

A new interactive display in the library this school year is that of a weekly poll.  Last week’s question revealed that 76% of students would rather “never eat their favorite food again,” than “only eat their favorite food always.”  560 students voted for the first option, while 173 cast a vote for sticking to eating only their favorite food.

This was a busy week in the library, as all of the English 8 classes came in for book talks and shared readings, as an introduction to the books that they will choose from for their first quarter novel study.    

Ask your student if they can remember what books they heard about, and what they hope to read.

Encourage your enthusiastic readers to join “Readers Unite,” an after-school book club sponsored by Ms. Monk on Mondays during the first block.  The first meeting of the new year is Monday, September 18th.  Students may also participate in a new activity to Irving this year:  Battle of the Books, which will take place during third-block advisory and a few after-school meetings.

—--Mary Ann Monk & Chad Brizek, Irving MS Librarians

News from the PTA

Well, HELLO! It was fun to see so many of you at Back to School Night, and to welcome new families to the PTA. We are so glad that Back to School Night was actually, Back AT School!  If you didn’t get the chance to join the PTA on Tuesday night, here is the link: https://irvingms.memberhub.com/store/items/76046. It’s only $10. Reminder: PTA LINKS ARE NOT LIVE, SO YOU MUST COPY AND PASTE. Thank you! 

You will also see the remaining pieces of SPIRIT WEAR in that section of the PTA website. Grab it while it’s there. We will do another bulk order in October. 

On Wednesday we had our first PTA meeting, passed the budget, and had an overview from Principal Conley. Our next general membership meeting is in November, and we are hoping to do it in person, combined with the “Hidden in Plain Sight” presentation from our local Fairfax County Police in West Springfield. This presentation provides insight into a range of teen behavior, from risky to illegal, that the local police are currently dealing with. This real-time insight is valuable, and this presentation was well-attended last year.  It is for adults only – children do not attend. More about this in October. 

Note that our FIRST SPIRIT NIGHT will be at Papa John's on September 28th!!...and then every Thursday after that!! Get pizza - Support the PTA. What’s a spirit night you ask? A local restaurant provides the PTA with a percentage of the sales from a given night. Our local Papa John’s has offered to do it EVERY THURSDAY! It’s a total WIN-WIN-WIN: your kids eat, you don’t cook, and Irving makes money. Oh – AND – you’re supporting a local business or franchise! You can’t afford NOT to do it!

Feel free to reach out to learn more about the PTA, or with any questions you might have.

Irving MS Continuing Important Info Military & Family Life Counselor (MFLC)

We are excited to welcome Alejandra Stephens, our new Military and Family Life Counselor (MFLC). She is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Virginia and is very excited to be a part of the Irving School and to serve the school’s military students and families!

As an MFLC, she provides free, nonmedical counseling to individuals, groups, and families in person during the school week to enhance social, academic, and emotional skills to support the wellbeing of military students and their families. She is trained to address issues related to:

° Self-esteem

° Communication and relationships at home or school ° Life skills

° Adjustment and transition

° Behavioral concerns

° Changes at home (including deployment, reunion, and divorce)

° Fear, grief, and loss

All services are confidential except in cases of duty to warn situations such as safety issues and illegal activities. If you would like support in any of these areas, for resources or to introduce yourself, please contact her at [email protected].

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology 

Interested Irving students and families please join us on Wednesday September 20th from 6-7PM at Irving – Barker Hall Auditorium for a TJHSST information session brought to you by a Thomas Jefferson Representative. Learn about the programs, classes, student life and the admission application. 

Interested 8th grade STUDENTS ONLY can also sign up for a TJHSST after school session on Tuesday September 19th from 2:30-3:30pm. Please review eligibility criteria below to ensure that you would qualify to apply!

***The TJ application will become available on Monday, October 23 at 4:00 pm via the TJ website.

What is TJHSST?

A FCPS regional Governor’s high school (9-12th grades) for students interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math). You can now find the new TJ Admissions Video for 2023 as well as the presentation schedule that is available to the public on their website, www.fcps.edu/tjadmissions. We strongly encourage you to view their YouTube admissions video prior to attending this meeting.

 Eligibility to Apply (8th grade):

(1)   Residency requirement-FCPS is included

(2)  Completed a full-year course of Algebra 1, OR be currently enrolled in a full-year course of HONORS-level Algebra 1 or higher math

(3)  Be enrolled in HONORS science

(4)  Be enrolled in HONORS social studies OR English OR be identified as a “Young Scholar”

(5)  Have a 3.5 or higher GPA in all core academic courses (Math, Science, Social studies, English, and if taken for high school credit, World Language) at the time of application. 

TJHSST Admissions: Contact Information

Admissions Office (general inquiries): Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Phone:571-423-3770         Email: tjadmi[email protected]               Website:www.fcps.edu/tjadmissions 

World Language Credit Exam

Can your child read and write proficiently in another language? If the answer is YES than you may want to register them for the World Language Credit Exam

What is the World Language Credit Exam?

A free, optional test offered by FCPS to provide students the opportunity to EARN HIGH SCHOOL CREDIT for their ability to read and write in another language. This is a rigorous test that assesses language experience (example, student can read entire newspaper in another language and write an essay using complete sentences).

Why take the World Language Credit Exam?

If students pass the exam, they can earn up to three (3) high school credits towards the advanced diploma language graduation requirements.

When is the World Language Credit Exam?

The 2023 World Languages Credit Exam will be administered on November 8, 9, and 13, 2023. You will only be registered for one date. Registration opens on September 5 and closes on October 5, at 4 p.m. Late registrations will not be accepted.

If you are interested in registering your child for this test, please email your child’s assigned school counselor:

8th Grade: Mrs. Pareja – [email protected], Mr. Frenck – [email protected]

7th Grade: Ms. Nelson – [email protected], Ms. Kiefaber – [email protected]

Social and Emotional Learning Screener

FCPS is committed to supporting all students’ mental wellness and social and emotional learning. FCPS approved a Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener that students use to share their perspectives on how well their school and community help them develop skills they need to succeed. These skills include achieving goals, understanding and managing emotions, establishing and maintaining relationships with adults and peers, and making responsible decisions. Students also share how successful their school and community are at making them feel valued, included, and supported. These factors are critical to positive academic, social, and emotional success.  All students in grades 3-12 have the opportunity to participate in the screener twice a year, in the fall and spring. 

The SEL Screener elevates the voices of our students by making sure their perspectives are considered in decision-making. Screener data is used to plan programming for the division, schools, and individual students. Division and school level results, which do not include individual student information, may be used by staff to improve SEL and mental wellness practices and to inform strategic plans. Division and school level results may also be shared with the community to describe the needs of our student body and provide opportunities for partnership.

Individual students’ Screener data will only be accessible to teachers, administrators, and staff with legitimate educational interests. Results will be maintained in secure files and databases accessible only to these individuals. In partnership with families, staff review this data alongside other information to plan interventions for students with identified needs. Parents and guardians will receive an individualized report regarding their student’s screener results following each assessment window. School staff are available to discuss results with families.

You can opt out your child from participating in the SEL Screener by completing the form on Page 18 of the Annual Notice of Survey, Records, Curriculum, Privacy, and Related Rights and Opt-Out Forms booklet or directly through your SIS ParentVue account online. The opt out applies to the current school year and must be completed annually.

For more information about the SEL Screener and access to its contents visit https://www.fcps.edu/student-tests-and-assessments/student-assessment-details/social-emotional-screener.

State Assessments Grades 3-8

State assessments measure the extent to which students have learned the content and skills reflected in state standards and may also be used to measure growth in learning state standards. The format and timing of state assessments vary by grade level and content area, as noted in the table below. These include:

• Fall and winter Virginia Growth Assessments (VGA) standardized tests in reading and mathematics. More information is available on the VGA webpage (https://www.fcps.edu/node/43932);  
• Spring Standards of Learning (SOL) standardized tests in reading, mathematics, and science. More information is available on the SOL assessments webpage (https://www.fcps.edu/node/35021); 
• Ongoing local alternative assessments (LAAs) including performance-based assessments (PBAs) completed as part of classroom instruction in science, writing, and social studies; More information is available on the LAA and PBA webpage (https://www.fcps.edu/node/45043).  

Grade

VGA Content Areas Tested

(Fall and Winter)

SOL Content Areas Tested

(Spring)

LAA Content Areas Tested

(Ongoing)

3

Reading, Mathematics

Reading, Mathematics

Science, Social Studies

4

Reading, Mathematics

Reading, Mathematics

Social Studies

5

Reading, Mathematics

Science, Reading, Mathematics

Writing

6

Reading, Mathematics*

Reading, Mathematics

Social Studies

7

Reading, Mathematics*

Reading, Mathematics

Social Studies

8

Reading, Mathematics*

Science, Reading, Mathematics

Social Studies, Writing

* VGA tests are not available for students enrolled in a high school credit-bearing math course, such as Algebra 1 or Geometry.

The Grade Level Tests webpage (https://www.fcps.edu/student-assessment/grade-level-tests) provides information by grade level about the general assessment schedule and reporting method for each required assessment type in Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS). At Irving Middle School, we will continue to update and remind you about upcoming dates students are scheduled to take the standardized VGA and SOL assessments. Our tentatively planned dates are below, but these are still subject to change. If you have questions about state assessments, contact your student’s teacher or our school test coordinator, Leigh Arscott at [email protected] or 703-912-4645.

Tentative state assessment dates for Irving MS students:

• September 20 – Fall Reading VGA
• September 27 – Fall Math VGA
• December 6 – Winter Reading VGA
• December 12 – Winter Math VGA
• April 29-May 24 - Spring SOL exams, exact dates yet to be determined

You may select a preferred language for viewing a pdf version of this FCPS State Assessment notification letter here: (https://www.fcps.edu/node/42716

Math Inventory and Reading Inventory

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) uses the Math Inventory and Reading Inventory with secondary students in grades 7-12 to determine students’ strengths and needs in mathematics and literacy. All students in middle school and selected students in high school participate in these assessments.

The purpose of these assessments is to identify students who may benefit from additional support with literacy and mathematics skills. In addition, school teams will consider assessment results as they plan instruction for your student. Assessments are administered at the beginning of the school year. Depending on grade level and initial performance, students may participate in follow-up assessment in the winter and/or in the spring. 

Additional information about these assessments can be found at the following webpages:

• Math Inventory (https://www.hmhco.com/programs/math-inventory) 
• Reading Inventory (https://www.hmhco.com/programs/reading-inventory)

If you have further questions about these assessments, please contact your student’s English or mathematics teacher.

You can access printable translations of this notification in multiple languages at https://www.fcps.edu/node/44059. 

 

Family Life Education Instructional Program Information

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) provides a comprehensive, sequential Family Life Education (FLE) program for students in grades kindergarten through grade twelve.  Instruction is seen as a partnership among parents and guardians, the school, and the community in supporting the learning essential to the development of strong families, positive relationships, and a healthy community.

Parents/guardians may choose to opt their child out of all or part of the Family Life Education program.  Students who are opted out are provided with age-appropriate, nonpunitive alternative health instruction, and every effort is made to foster respect for family choices.  If you wish to opt your child out of all or part of FLE for this school year, opt out forms will be included in your child’s back-to-school/orientation packets and are available online for Elementary (K-6), Middle School (7-8), and High School (9-12).  Please fill in the opt-out form and return it to your child’s school prior to Family Life Education instruction.

Detailed grade-level program descriptions are available online at Elementary (K-6) , Middle School (7-8) , and High School (9-12). FLE grade level-specific lessons and media that FCPS has streaming rights for are available for parents online in Schoology.  Parents/guardians login to Schoology using the same username and password as their Student Information System (SIS) Parent account.  Grade level-specific lessons are also available at the City of Fairfax Regional Library (this location does not have media).  Grade level-specific lessons and media that is not streamed online are available for review at your child’s school library.  Due to copyright permissions, we are unable to stream all media online.

Program questions may be addressed at your child’s school or by contacting Instructional Services at 571-423-4550 or [email protected]. 

8100 Old Keene Mill Springfield, VA 22152  | Main Office: 703-912-4500
Attendance: 703-912-4545 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube

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A friendly reminder that our PTA meeting is happening right now! We need a few more PTA members join the meeting in order to approve the budget. Please join us on Zoom! It is a brief meeting. 

Topic: PTA meeting #1 2023-2024

Time: Sep 13, 2023 06:30 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us05web.zoom.us/j/87533136631?pwd=2JWCWWfsbRS4Lm0awndu8dVMO79G7V.1

Meeting ID: 875 3313 6631

Passcode: 2b65Pb

Our agenda is:

- Welcome to the new year!

- Join..Join..Join.

- Budget Approval - Overview of the PTA calendar - Volunteers!

Thank you

Cindy Conley

8100 Old Keene Mill Springfield, VA 22152  | Main Office: 703-912-4500
Attendance: 703-912-4545 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube

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Greetings, Irving Families!

I apologize for a Sunday delivery! I was so excited for the West Springfield Football game on Friday, I forgot to hit send. While not the outcome they were hoping for, the Spartans gave it their all on the field Friday night. We look forward to a great season! 

On Friday, we held a Cross Country interest meeting for students who are interested in participating with Coach Damani Sommers. We are looking for 2 more coaches - if you are interested, please email me at [email protected]. We will hold practices on Mondays from 2:25-3:25 and Thursdays from 3:30-4:30. We will share the same information about Cross Country on Tuesday, September 12, at Back to School Night from 6:00-6:30 pm, in the cafeteria. If you would like a sneak peek at the information. The slide deck is available in both the Student and Parent Schoology Courses. The first practice for Cross Country is on Monday, September 18 from 2:25-3:25, students may take the late bus. 

Coming up this week, students may stay after school for Academic support and take the late bus home on Monday and Thursday. We will not have After School Activities on Tuesday, due to Back to School Night. Please be sure to write down or take a screenshot of your child’s schedule from ParentVue. If you forget to bring your child’s schedule, not to worry, we will print schedules for those who need a copy.  We look forward to seeing our parents/guardians on Tuesday evening for our first in-person BTSN since 2019!

Take Care!

Cindy Conley

Principal

News from the PTA

WELCOME BACK! The Irving PTA is jumping into all this year has to offer and we would love for you to join us. Here’s how: 

STOP BY the PTA table at Back-to-School night. We will have information on how to join the PTA, we will a limited stock of spirit wear items (t-shirts, car magnets, etc.)  have information about future spirit wear sales, and will have a calendar of all the fun we have planned. We will have a parent at the table from 5:30 to 6:25, then will just leave information at the table from 6:25 onwards.

JOIN US for the first PTA meeting of the year on Wednesday 9/13 at 6:30 PM via zoom (we tried to make it in-person and part of Back to School Night but couldn’t fit it in). Principal Conley joins the PTA meetings, goes over all the latest issues and is free to answer questions. The PTA will go over plans for the year.  You do NOT need to be a member to attend, but it ensures you get the email notifications from the PTA AND, it’s the right thing to do. Joining is easy!  Copy and paste this URL to join (links don’t work) https://irvingms.memberhub.com/store/items/76046. The cost is $10/parent, $9 for each additional parent. 

Important Information for Irving MS TalkingPoints

TalkingPoints is a safe and easy way for Irving teachers and staff to communicate with families in their home language for free. We will be using this platform to communicate with you about your child’s education and progress. There’s also a Mobile App! Visit the TalkingPoints page on the FCPS website to learn more. 

Military & Family Life Counselor (MFLC)

We are excited to welcome Alejandra Stephens, our new Military and Family Life Counselor (MFLC). She is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Virginia and is very excited to be a part of the Irving School and to serve the school’s military students and families!

As an MFLC, she provides free, nonmedical counseling to individuals, groups, and families in person during the school week to enhance social, academic, and emotional skills to support the wellbeing of military students and their families. She is trained to address issues related to:

° Self-esteem

° Communication and relationships at home or school ° Life skills

° Adjustment and transition

° Behavioral concerns

° Changes at home (including deployment, reunion, and divorce)

° Fear, grief, and loss

All services are confidential except in cases of duty to warn situations such as safety issues and illegal activities. If you would like support in any of these areas, for resources or to introduce yourself, please contact her at [email protected].

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology 

Interested Irving students and families please join us on Wednesday September 20th from 6-7PM at Irving – Barker Hall Auditorium for a TJHSST information session brought to you by a Thomas Jefferson Representative. Learn about the programs, classes, student life and the admission application. The application will become available online on Monday, October 23 at 4:00 pm via the TJ website.

What is TJHSST?

A FCPS regional Governor’s high school (9-12th grades) for students interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math). You can now find the new TJ Admissions Video for 2023 as well as the presentation schedule that is available to the public on their website, www.fcps.edu/tjadmissions. We strongly encourage you to view their YouTube admissions video prior to attending this meeting.

Eligibility to Apply (8th grade):

(1)   Residency requirement-FCPS is included

(2)  Completed a full-year course of Algebra 1, OR be currently enrolled in a full-year course of HONORS-level Algebra 1 or higher math

(3)  Be enrolled in HONORS science

(4)  Be enrolled in HONORS social studies OR English OR be identified as a “Young Scholar”

(5)  Have a 3.5 or higher GPA in all cores academic courses (Math, Science, Social studies, English, and if taken for high school credit, World Language) at the time of application.

TJHSST Admissions: Contact Information

Admissions Office (general inquiries): Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Phone:571-423-3770         Email: [email protected]               Website: www.tjadmissions.org

Social and Emotional Learning Screener

FCPS is committed to supporting all students’ mental wellness and social and emotional learning. FCPS approved a Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener that students use to share their perspectives on how well their school and community help them develop skills they need to succeed. These skills include achieving goals, understanding and managing emotions, establishing and maintaining relationships with adults and peers, and making responsible decisions. Students also share how successful their school and community are at making them feel valued, included, and supported. These factors are critical to positive academic, social, and emotional success.  All students in grades 3-12 have the opportunity to participate in the screener twice a year, in the fall and spring. 

The SEL Screener elevates the voices of our students by making sure their perspectives are considered in decision-making. Screener data is used to plan programming for the division, schools, and individual students. Division and school level results, which do not include individual student information, may be used by staff to improve SEL and mental wellness practices and to inform strategic plans. Division and school level results may also be shared with the community to describe the needs of our student body and provide opportunities for partnership.

Individual students’ Screener data will only be accessible to teachers, administrators, and staff with legitimate educational interests. Results will be maintained in secure files and databases accessible only to these individuals. In partnership with families, staff review this data alongside other information to plan interventions for students with identified needs. Parents and guardians will receive an individualized report regarding their student’s screener results following each assessment window. School staff are available to discuss results with families.

You can opt out your child from participating in the SEL Screener by completing the form on Page 18 of the Annual Notice of Survey, Records, Curriculum, Privacy, and Related Rights and Opt-Out Forms booklet or directly through your SIS ParentVue account online. The opt out applies to the current school year and must be completed annually.

For more information about the SEL Screener and access to its contents visit https://www.fcps.edu/student-tests-and-assessments/student-assessment-details/social-emotional-screener.

______________________________________________________________

State Assessments Grades 3-8

State assessments measure the extent to which students have learned the content and skills reflected in state standards and may also be used to measure growth in learning state standards. The format and timing of state assessments vary by grade level and content area, as noted in the table below. These include:

• Fall and winter Virginia Growth Assessments (VGA) standardized tests in reading and mathematics. More information is available on the VGA webpage (https://www.fcps.edu/node/43932);  
• Spring Standards of Learning (SOL) standardized tests in reading, mathematics, and science. More information is available on the SOL assessments webpage (https://www.fcps.edu/node/35021); 
• Ongoing local alternative assessments (LAAs) including performance-based assessments (PBAs) completed as part of classroom instruction in science, writing, and social studies; More information is available on the LAA and PBA webpage (https://www.fcps.edu/node/45043).  

Grade

VGA Content Areas Tested

(Fall and Winter)

SOL Content Areas Tested

(Spring)

LAA Content Areas Tested

(Ongoing)

3

Reading, Mathematics

Reading, Mathematics

Science, Social Studies

4

Reading, Mathematics

Reading, Mathematics

Social Studies

5

Reading, Mathematics

Science, Reading, Mathematics

Writing

6

Reading, Mathematics*

Reading, Mathematics

Social Studies

7

Reading, Mathematics*

Reading, Mathematics

Social Studies

8

Reading, Mathematics*

Science, Reading, Mathematics

Social Studies, Writing

* VGA tests are not available for students enrolled in a high school credit-bearing math course, such as Algebra 1 or Geometry.

The Grade Level Tests webpage (https://www.fcps.edu/student-assessment/grade-level-tests) provides information by grade level about the general assessment schedule and reporting method for each required assessment type in Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS). At Irving Middle School, we will continue to update and remind you about upcoming dates students are scheduled to take the standardized VGA and SOL assessments. Our tentatively planned dates are below, but these are still subject to change. If you have questions about state assessments, contact your student’s teacher or our school test coordinator, Leigh Arscott at [email protected] or 703-912-4645.

Tentative state assessment dates for Irving MS students:

• September 20 – Fall Reading VGA
• September 27 – Fall Math VGA
• December 6 – Winter Reading VGA
• December 12 – Winter Math VGA
• April 29-May 24 - Spring SOL exams, exact dates yet to be determined

You may select a preferred language for viewing a pdf version of this FCPS State Assessment notification letter here: (https://www.fcps.edu/node/42716

 

Math Inventory and Reading Inventory

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) uses the Math Inventory and Reading Inventory with secondary students in grades 7-12 to determine students’ strengths and needs in mathematics and literacy. All students in middle school and selected students in high school participate in these assessments.

The purpose of these assessments is to identify students who may benefit from additional support with literacy and mathematics skills. In addition, school teams will consider assessment results as they plan instruction for your student. Assessments are administered at the beginning of the school year. Depending on grade level and initial performance, students may participate in follow-up assessment in the winter and/or in the spring. 

Additional information about these assessments can be found at the following webpages:

• Math Inventory (https://www.hmhco.com/programs/math-inventory) 
• Reading Inventory (https://www.hmhco.com/programs/reading-inventory)

If you have further questions about these assessments, please contact your student’s English or mathematics teacher.

You can access printable translations of this notification in multiple languages at https://www.fcps.edu/node/44059. 

Family Life Education Instructional Program Information

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) provides a comprehensive, sequential Family Life Education (FLE) program for students in grades kindergarten through grade twelve.  Instruction is seen as a partnership among parents and guardians, the school, and the community in supporting the learning essential to the development of strong families, positive relationships, and a healthy community.

Parents/guardians may choose to opt their child out of all or part of the Family Life Education program.  Students who are opted out are provided with age-appropriate, nonpunitive alternative health instruction, and every effort is made to foster respect for family choices.  If you wish to opt your child out of all or part of FLE for this school year, opt out forms will be included in your child’s back-to-school/orientation packets and are available online for Elementary (K-6), Middle School (7-8), and High School (9-12).  Please fill in the opt-out form and return it to your child’s school prior to Family Life Education instruction.

Detailed grade-level program descriptions are available online at Elementary (K-6) , Middle School (7-8) , and High School (9-12). FLE grade level-specific lessons and media that FCPS has streaming rights for are available for parents online in Schoology.  Parents/guardians login to Schoology using the same username and password as their Student Information System (SIS) Parent account.  Grade level-specific lessons are also available at the City of Fairfax Regional Library (this location does not have media).  Grade level-specific lessons and media that is not streamed online are available for review at your child’s school library.  Due to copyright permissions, we are unable to stream all media online.

Program questions may be addressed at your child’s school or by contacting Instructional Services at 571-423-4550 or [email protected]. 

Irving Stays After - After School Program Registration

The After School program at Irving Middle School provides students access to high-quality activities in a safe environment for all students. The Program strives to improve academic performance, foster social, emotional, and physical well-being, all while reducing the potential for risk-taking behaviors. 

https://forms.gle/jj9RXegR3C85tJ6u6

Monday, September 11 - will serve as the first day of the After School Program and Late Buses. Activities and Clubs will not meet, however, after school with their teacher, Homework Club and Hollow Lounge will be held, students are encouraged to attend and familiarize themselves with staying after. 

Tuesday, September 12 - No After School and Late Buses

Wednesday, September 13 - No After School and Late Buses

Art Club - starts Monday, September 18, 1st block

Readers Unite (bka Book Club) - starts Monday, September 18, 1st block

Soccer Club - starts Monday, September 18, 1st block

Washington Irving Theater Society (WITS) - starts Tuesday, September 19, 1st block

Dungeons & Dragons - starts Thursday, September 21, 1st block

Gardening Club - starts Thursday, September 21, 1st block

Irving Authors - starts Thursday, September 21, 1st block

T.R.I.B.E. (Trustworthy, Relentless, Intelligent, Brave and Enthusiastic) - starts Thursday, September 21, 1st block

Smash Bros Club - starts Thursday, September 21, 2nd block

Library News

Irving Says…

A new interactive display in the library this school year is that of a weekly poll.  When students visit the library, they cast their votes in person.  Additionally, students and staff can vote digitally through Schoology.  Last week’s poll was “Would you rather live in a treehouse or in a boat?”  The results were that 77.4% of students would prefer to live in a treehouse, while 22.6% of students would choose life in a boat.  It was fun to hear students debate the issue, considering factors such as “What is the budget for the treehouse / boat?”  and “Is the boat big enough to cross the ocean?” etc.  Stay tuned for weekly reporting of what “Irving Says.”

Next week we look forward to hosting all of the English 8 classes when they visit for book talks.  

Ask your student what they’re reading.  And, remember students of this age still like to be read to or can read aloud a book with you. 

Encourage your enthusiastic readers to join “Readers Unite,” an after-school book club sponsored by Ms. Monk on Mondays during the first block.  Students may also participate in a new activity to Irving this year:  Battle of the Books, which will take place during third-block advisory and a few after-school meetings.

—--Mary Ann Monk & Chad Brizek, Irving MS Librarians

8100 Old Keene Mill Springfield, VA 22152  | Main Office: 703-912-4500
Attendance: 703-912-4545 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube

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

Upcoming Important Dates

September 1 & September 4

No School - Labor Day Weekend

September 11

First Day of the After School Program & Late Buses - Academic Week and Cross Country Practice; 

*No After-School and Late Buses on Wednesday, September 13*

September 12

Back to School Night! UPDATED

• 6:00-6:30 pm - Optional Programs:
• Family Life Education Review (168)
• ESOL (Room 145)
• SPED (Room Barker Hall)
• Advanced Academic Programs Questions - Library
• 6:30-6:35 pm - Transition time into 1st period
• 6:35-7:10 - Admin Presentation & 1st period
• 7:15-7:25 - 3rd period
• 7:30-7:40 - 5th period
• 7:45-7:55 - 7th period
• 8:00-8:10 - 2nd period
• 8:15-8:25 - 4th period
• 8:30-8:40 - 6th period

8:40-8:50 - 8th period

 

The tallest spaghetti, tape, and marshmallow tower 

in Mr. DeChagas’ 2nd period class!

Greetings, Irving Families!

From getting to know you activities, building towers to learn about collaboration, taking walks to get to know our campus, and diving into curriculum the first 2 weeks of school have flown by. We will all be taking the long weekend and Irving Middle School will be closed from September 1-September 4. We look forward to seeing students again bright and early on Tuesday, September 5. 

Today, Mr. Spear and I finished up the Students Rights & Responsibilities (SR&R) presentations. Now all students have received the division and school SR&R presentations. Next week, they will take the SR&R quiz. We stressed the importance of our ROCK (Respect Ownership Communication Kindness) and the importance of thinking before we post anything on social media, speak, and write because the way we treat each other matters. 

As a part of our SR&R presentations, we also talked about how we represent our Irving Middle School in the community. We understand that many parents/guardians give permission for their child to go to the “Plaza” (the Wholefoods shopping plaza) after school. If you are giving permission for your child to go to the Plaza, please speak with them about the importance of being a respectful customer and citizen of the West Springfield Community. I made an announcement about behaving appropriately at the plaza just before dismissal today and will continue to do so at the end of each week. We receive many complaints from patrons and business owners about the behavior displayed at the Plaza and we need your help in stressing the importance of being kind and following business’ rules while in stores and restaurants. We appreciate your collaboration and support!

Lastly, again this newsletter is lengthy because we have a number of items that are coming up and we want to make sure you are aware. Please be sure to read through the entire newsletter and let us know if you have any questions. 

I hope you have a wonderful long weekend!

Take Care!

Cindy Conley

Principal

FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS

Friday, September 8th, 2023 at West Springfield HS

We are excited to kick off the West Springfield High School football season with our first home game on September 8th  as the Spartans take on the South County Stallions @ 7pm.

The theme for this game is a WHITE OUT.

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

The cost of all Varsity Football games is $5.00 for students and adults. We are expecting a very large crowd so please plan on arriving early.

To avoid long lines, we strongly encourage you to purchase your tickets before the game, through our etix website.  

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! 

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology 

Interested Irving students and families please join us on Wednesday September 20th from 6-7PM at Irving – Barker Hall Auditorium for a TJHSST information session brought to you by a Thomas Jefferson Representative. Learn about the programs, classes, student life and the admission application. The application will become available online on Monday, October 23 at 4:00 pm via the TJ website.

What is TJHSST?

A FCPS regional Governor’s high school (9-12th grades) for students interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math). You can now find the new TJ Admissions Video for 2023 as well as the presentation schedule that is available to the public on their website, www.fcps.edu/tjadmissions. We strongly encourage you to view their YouTube admissions video prior to attending this meeting.

Eligibility to Apply (8th grade):

(1)   Residency requirement-FCPS is included

(2)  Completed a full-year course of Algebra 1, OR be currently enrolled in a full-year course of HONORS-level Algebra 1 or higher math

(3)  Be enrolled in HONORS science

(4)  Be enrolled in HONORS social studies OR English OR be identified as a “Young Scholar”

(5)  Have a 3.5 or higher GPA in all cores academic courses (Math, Science, Social studies, English, and if taken for high school credit, World Language) at the time of application.

TJHSST Admissions: Contact Information

Admissions Office (general inquiries): Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Phone:571-423-3770         Email: [email protected]               Website: www.tjadmissions.org

Social and Emotional Learning Screener

FCPS is committed to supporting all students’ mental wellness and social and emotional learning. FCPS approved a Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener that students use to share their perspectives on how well their school and community help them develop skills they need to succeed. These skills include achieving goals, understanding and managing emotions, establishing and maintaining relationships with adults and peers, and making responsible decisions. Students also share how successful their school and community are at making them feel valued, included, and supported. These factors are critical to positive academic, social, and emotional success.  All students in grades 3-12 have the opportunity to participate in the screener twice a year, in the fall and spring. 

The SEL Screener elevates the voices of our students by making sure their perspectives are considered in decision-making. Screener data is used to plan programming for the division, schools, and individual students. Division and school level results, which do not include individual student information, may be used by staff to improve SEL and mental wellness practices and to inform strategic plans. Division and school level results may also be shared with the community to describe the needs of our student body and provide opportunities for partnership.

Individual students’ Screener data will only be accessible to teachers, administrators, and staff with legitimate educational interests. Results will be maintained in secure files and databases accessible only to these individuals. In partnership with families, staff review this data alongside other information to plan interventions for students with identified needs. Parents and guardians will receive an individualized report regarding their student’s screener results following each assessment window. School staff are available to discuss results with families.

You can opt out your child from participating in the SEL Screener by completing the form on Page 18 of the Annual Notice of Survey, Records, Curriculum, Privacy, and Related Rights and Opt-Out Forms booklet or directly through your SIS ParentVue account online. The opt out applies to the current school year and must be completed annually.

For more information about the SEL Screener and access to its contents visit https://www.fcps.edu/student-tests-and-assessments/student-assessment-details/social-emotional-screener.

State Assessments Grades 3-8

State assessments measure the extent to which students have learned the content and skills reflected in state standards and may also be used to measure growth in learning state standards. The format and timing of state assessments vary by grade level and content area, as noted in the table below. These include:

• Fall and winter Virginia Growth Assessments (VGA) standardized tests in reading and mathematics. More information is available on the VGA webpage (https://www.fcps.edu/node/43932);  
• Spring Standards of Learning (SOL) standardized tests in reading, mathematics, and science. More information is available on the SOL assessments webpage (https://www.fcps.edu/node/35021); 
• Ongoing local alternative assessments (LAAs) including performance-based assessments (PBAs) completed as part of classroom instruction in science, writing, and social studies; More information is available on the LAA and PBA webpage (https://www.fcps.edu/node/45043).  

Grade

VGA Content Areas Tested

(Fall and Winter)

SOL Content Areas Tested

(Spring)

LAA Content Areas Tested

(Ongoing)

3

Reading, Mathematics

Reading, Mathematics

Science, Social Studies

4

Reading, Mathematics

Reading, Mathematics

Social Studies

5

Reading, Mathematics

Science, Reading, Mathematics

Writing

6

Reading, Mathematics*

Reading, Mathematics

Social Studies

7

Reading, Mathematics*

Reading, Mathematics

Social Studies

8

Reading, Mathematics*

Science, Reading, Mathematics

Social Studies, Writing

* VGA tests are not available for students enrolled in a high school credit-bearing math course, such as Algebra 1 or Geometry.

The Grade Level Tests webpage (https://www.fcps.edu/student-assessment/grade-level-tests) provides information by grade level about the general assessment schedule and reporting method for each required assessment type in Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS). At Irving Middle School, we will continue to update and remind you about upcoming dates students are scheduled to take the standardized VGA and SOL assessments. Our tentatively planned dates are below, but these are still subject to change. If you have questions about state assessments, contact your student’s teacher or our school test coordinator, Leigh Arscott at [email protected] or 703-912-4645.

Tentative state assessment dates for Irving MS students:

• September 20 – Fall Reading VGA
• September 27 – Fall Math VGA
• December 6 – Winter Reading VGA
• December 12 – Winter Math VGA
• April 29-May 24 - Spring SOL exams, exact dates yet to be determined

You may select a preferred language for viewing a pdf version of this FCPS State Assessment notification letter here: (https://www.fcps.edu/node/42716

Math Inventory and Reading Inventory

Dear Parents and Guardians:

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) uses the Math Inventory and Reading Inventory with secondary students in grades 7-12 to determine students’ strengths and needs in mathematics and literacy. All students in middle school and selected students in high school participate in these assessments.

The purpose of these assessments is to identify students who may benefit from additional support with literacy and mathematics skills. In addition, school teams will consider assessment results as they plan instruction for your student. Assessments are administered at the beginning of the school year. Depending on grade level and initial performance, students may participate in follow-up assessment in the winter and/or in the spring. 

Additional information about these assessments can be found at the following webpages:

• Math Inventory (https://www.hmhco.com/programs/math-inventory) 
• Reading Inventory (https://www.hmhco.com/programs/reading-inventory)

If you have further questions about these assessments, please contact your student’s English or mathematics teacher.

You can access printable translations of this notification in multiple languages at https://www.fcps.edu/node/44059. 

Family Life Education Instructional Program Information

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) provides a comprehensive, sequential Family Life Education (FLE) program for students in grades kindergarten through grade twelve.  Instruction is seen as a partnership among parents and guardians, the school, and the community in supporting the learning essential to the development of strong families, positive relationships, and a healthy community.

Parents/guardians may choose to opt their child out of all or part of the Family Life Education program.  Students who are opted out are provided with age-appropriate, nonpunitive alternative health instruction, and every effort is made to foster respect for family choices.  If you wish to opt your child out of all or part of FLE for this school year, opt out forms will be included in your child’s back-to-school/orientation packets and are available online for Elementary (K-6), Middle School (7-8), and High School (9-12).  Please fill in the opt-out form and return it to your child’s school prior to Family Life Education instruction.

Detailed grade-level program descriptions are available online at Elementary (K-6) , Middle School (7-8) , and High School (9-12). FLE grade level-specific lessons and media that FCPS has streaming rights for are available for parents online in Schoology.  Parents/guardians login to Schoology using the same username and password as their Student Information System (SIS) Parent account.  Grade level-specific lessons are also available at the City of Fairfax Regional Library (this location does not have media).  Grade level-specific lessons and media that is not streamed online are available for review at your child’s school library.  Due to copyright permissions, we are unable to stream all media online.

Program questions may be addressed at your child’s school or by contacting Instructional Services at 571-423-4550 or [email protected]. 

Student Laptop Distribution

Student laptops and power cords will be distributed August 29 and 30 through English classes. Please assist your child with reminders to fully charge their laptop each night and bring their power cord to school daily in case they need it. It is recommended that students label the power cord with their first and last name on a piece of tape. If your child still has a laptop checked out from last year, please have them bring it to school and turn in on August 29 or 30. 

TalkingPoints

TalkingPoints is a safe and easy way for Irving teachers and staff to communicate with families in their home language for free. We will be using this platform to communicate with you about your child’s education and progress. There’s also a Mobile App! Visit the TalkingPoints page on the FCPS website to learn more. 

Medication Authorization Forms

The FCPS medication authorization forms have been updated for school year 23-24 and older versions cannot be accepted.  Please use the links below for the updated forms:

For epinephrine: https://www.fcps.edu/sites/default/files/media/forms/se64.pdf

General medication form: https://www.fcps.edu/sites/default/files/media/forms/se63.pdf:

Virginia Asthma Action Plan for inhalers: https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/content/uploads/sites/58/2016/12/Asthma-Action-Plan-2019.pdf

Forms for all medications must be completed by a physician with the exception of over the counter medications (OTCs) for headaches, muscle aches, menstrual cramps or orthodontic pain. OTCs must be in original, unopened containers upon receipt.

Various language translations of the forms can be found on the FCPS website: https://www.fcps.edu/registration/forms

Please call our Public Health Nurse if you have any questions at 571-495-0011.

Irving Stays After - After School Program Registration

The After School program at Irving Middle School provides students access to high-quality activities in a safe environment for all students. The Program strives to improve academic performance, foster social, emotional, and physical well-being, all while reducing the potential for risk-taking behaviors. 

https://forms.gle/jj9RXegR3C85tJ6u6

Monday, September 11 - will serve as the first day of the After School Program and Late Buses. Activities and Clubs will not meet, however, after school with their teacher, Homework Club and Hollow Lounge will be held, students are encouraged to attend and familiarize themselves with staying after. 

Wednesday, September 13 - No After School and Late Buses

Library News

The library is back in business for the new school year.  This week, twenty classes have been through to borrow a “choice reading book.”  Students select a book they are interested in and are expected to have that book in their backpack to read every third period for our school-wide “Take Time” For Reading period.  Students also may be asked to have the book on hand in English when silent-reading time is done in class.  Ask your student what book they chose to read!  We are hoping that with so much of the school day dedicated to reading, students will be breezing through many books in the course of the year.

8100 Old Keene Mill Springfield, VA 22152  | Main Office: 703-912-4500
Attendance: 703-912-4545 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube

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

Upcoming Important Dates

August 29 & 30

Laptop Distribution through English Classes

September 1 & September 4

No School - Labor Day Weekend

September 11

First Day of the After School Program & Late Buses - Academic Week and Cross Country Practice; 

*No After-School and Late Buses on Wednesday, September 13*

September 12

Back to School Night! 

6:30-7:00 - Optional Sessions

• Family Life Education Preview
• ESOL Overview
• Special Education Overview

7:00 pm - Head to your child’s first period class

• Parents/Guardians will walk through their child’s schedule to learn about each class

 

We continue to grow (1214 students) & very close to being fully staffed! 

Be sure to take a look at our vacancies listed below and spread the word about our school. Our website is linked here

Greetings, Irving Families!

We have successfully completed our first week of school and I am so proud of our students and staff! Our students did a great job acclimating to an early start, multiple classes and transitions throughout the day, and figuring out the odd/even class days. We will continue to support students next week and anticipate they will have their routes to classes, lunch, and break figured out soon.

Today, we started our review of the Students Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R) by having students watch the county video located here. Next week, administrators will meet with students by grade level regarding behavior to ensure everyone is able to enjoy a safe teaching and learning environment. Lastly, after the Labor Day Weekend break, students will take the SR&R quiz in their Rock Block class. As you are speaking with your child about school, please be sure to review the SR&R with them. There is also a quick guide for secondary students, that we will make sure is linked in the All Students Course in Schoology so it is easily accessible at any time. 

To ensure our students get home safely, especially our students who walk or ride a bike to school, please remind your child that they need to take their earbuds out, put their phones down, pay attention to the crossing guard, walk in the cross-walks, and to get off their bike and walk it across streets. We have seen students very distracted with phones and not looking before riding across in front of cars, which is jeopardizing their safety especially when crossing Old Keene Mill Road. We appreciate your support in helping us stress the importance of safely walking or riding a bike! 

We are excited to share that we are very close to being fully staffed! We truly appreciate you spreading the word to those who may be interested in one of our open positions. Please continue to share our vacancies, we often get the best recommendations from our families. 

Lastly, below are notifications regarding upcoming testing and Family Life Education among other information. Please be sure to read through our entire newsletter as it is important information for all parents/guardians. 

We hope you have a wonderful weekend!

Take Care!

Cindy Conley

Principal

Math Inventory and Reading Inventory

Dear Parents and Guardians:

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) uses the Math Inventory and Reading Inventory with secondary students in grades 7-12 to determine students’ strengths and needs in mathematics and literacy. All students in middle school and selected students in high school participate in these assessments.

The purpose of these assessments is to identify students who may benefit from additional support with literacy and mathematics skills. In addition, school teams will consider assessment results as they plan instruction for your student. Assessments are administered at the beginning of the school year. Depending on grade level and initial performance, students may participate in follow-up assessment in the winter and/or in the spring. 

Additional information about these assessments can be found at the following webpages:

• Math Inventory (https://www.hmhco.com/programs/math-inventory) 
• Reading Inventory (https://www.hmhco.com/programs/reading-inventory)

If you have further questions about these assessments, please contact your student’s English or mathematics teacher.

You can access printable translations of this notification in multiple languages at https://www.fcps.edu/node/44059. 

Family Life Education Instructional Program Information

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) provides a comprehensive, sequential Family Life Education (FLE) program for students in grades kindergarten through grade twelve.  Instruction is seen as a partnership among parents and guardians, the school, and the community in supporting the learning essential to the development of strong families, positive relationships, and a healthy community.

Parents/guardians may choose to opt their child out of all or part of the Family Life Education program.  Students who are opted out are provided with age-appropriate, nonpunitive alternative health instruction, and every effort is made to foster respect for family choices.  If you wish to opt your child out of all or part of FLE for this school year, opt out forms will be included in your child’s back-to-school/orientation packets and are available online for Elementary (K-6), Middle School (7-8), and High School (9-12).  Please fill in the opt-out form and return it to your child’s school prior to Family Life Education instruction.

Detailed grade-level program descriptions are available online at Elementary (K-6) , Middle School (7-8) , and High School (9-12). FLE grade level-specific lessons and media that FCPS has streaming rights for are available for parents online in Schoology.  Parents/guardians login to Schoology using the same username and password as their Student Information System (SIS) Parent account.  Grade level-specific lessons are also available at the City of Fairfax Regional Library (this location does not have media).  Grade level-specific lessons and media that is not streamed online are available for review at your child’s school library.  Due to copyright permissions, we are unable to stream all media online.

Program questions may be addressed at your child’s school or by contacting Instructional Services at 571-423-4550 or [email protected]. 

Student Laptop Distribution

Student laptops and power cords will be distributed August 29 and 30 through English classes. Please assist your child with reminders to fully charge their laptop each night and bring their power cord to school daily in case they need it. It is recommended that students label the power cord with their first and last name on a piece of tape. If your child still has a laptop checked out from last year, please have them bring it to school and turn in on August 29 or 30. 

TalkingPoints

TalkingPoints is a safe and easy way for Irving teachers and staff to communicate with families in their home language for free. We will be using this platform to communicate with you about your child’s education and progress. There’s also a Mobile App! Visit the TalkingPoints page on the FCPS website to learn more. 

MySchoolBucks

Did you know MySchoolBucks can be used to pay almost all student fees?  Lunch account, elective class fees, instrument rental, dance tickets, computer power cord replacements, etc.

Medication Authorization Forms

The FCPS medication authorization forms have been updated for school year 23-24 and older versions cannot be accepted.  Please use the links below for the updated forms:

For epinephrine: https://www.fcps.edu/sites/default/files/media/forms/se64.pdf

General medication form: https://www.fcps.edu/sites/default/files/media/forms/se63.pdf:

Virginia Asthma Action Plan for inhalers: https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/content/uploads/sites/58/2016/12/Asthma-Action-Plan-2019.pdf

Forms for all medications must be completed by a physician with the exception of over the counter medications (OTCs) for headaches, muscle aches, menstrual cramps or orthodontic pain. OTCs must be in original, unopened containers upon receipt.

Various language translations of the forms can be found on the FCPS website: https://www.fcps.edu/registration/forms

Please call our Public Health Nurse if you have any questions at 571-495-0011.

Irving Stays After - After School Program Registration

The After School program at Irving Middle School provides students access to high-quality activities in a safe environment for all students. The Program strives to improve academic performance, foster social, emotional, and physical well-being, all while reducing the potential for risk-taking behaviors. 

https://forms.gle/jj9RXegR3C85tJ6u6

Monday, September 11 - will serve as the first day of the After School Program and Late Buses. Activities and Clubs will not meet, however, after school with their teacher, Homework Club and Hollow Lounge will be held, students are encouraged to attend and familiarize themselves with staying after. 

Wednesday, September 13 - No After School and Late Buses

Irving Middle School is Hiring!

We often find our staff members through recommendations by a parent/guardian so we are hoping you can help us with finding excellent candidates for the vacant positions below! If you know of someone who would be interested, please have them send their resume to the person listed next to the position. Thank you for helping us find the very best to teach and work at Irving Middle School!

Vacancy

Please send resumes to: 

2 Instructional Assistant Positions

Cindy Conley

Special Education Teacher (Social Studies and English)

Cindy Conley

Library News

The library is back in business for the new school year.  This week, twenty classes have been through to borrow a “choice reading book.”  Students select a book they are interested in and are expected to have that book in their backpack to read every third period for our school-wide “Take Time” For Reading period.  Students also may be asked to have the book on hand in English when silent-reading time is done in class.  Ask your student what book they chose to read!  We are hoping that with so much of the school day dedicated to reading, students will be breezing through many books in the course of the year.

8100 Old Keene Mill Springfield, VA 22152  | Main Office: 703-912-4500
Attendance: 703-912-4545 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube

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Upcoming Important Dates

August 21

First Day of 2023-2024 School Year! School begins at 7:30 am

September 11

First Day of the After School Program - Academic Week and Cross Country Practice; *No After-School and Late Buses on Wednesday, September 13*

September 11

First Day of Late Buses

September 12

**Please note this is a new date.

Back to School Night! 

6:30-7:00 - Optional Sessions

• Family Life Education Preview
• ESOL Overview
• Special Education Overview

7:00 pm - Head to your child’s first period class

• Parents/Guardians will walk through each of their child’s classes to learn

 

Our enrollment is growing and we are hiring!

Be sure to take a look at our vacancies listed below 

and spread the word! https://irvingms.fcps.edu/

Greetings, Irving Families!

What an exciting and fast week! We are thrilled so many of our families were able to attend Open House on Thursday! There was a steady stream of families throughout the entire afternoon and we truly enjoyed seeing the excitement of our students as they navigated the building learning where their classes are. 

On Monday, students will arrive and go to their first period class. If a student needs a copy of their schedule, please have them go to the tables outside Student Services. At 7:24 am our morning announcements begin which include a moment of silence, the Pledge of Allegiance, and any important information for the day. 

To ensure we have a safe start to the year, please ask your child to keep their wireless earbuds/Airpods at home. Per the Students Rights and Responsibilities, the wireless earbuds are not allowed in school at all. These earbuds pose a safety concern - in case of an emergency, we need all students to be able to follow the directions of staff. We also have found that the wireless earbuds are dropped or lost frequently. Irving Staff are not responsible, nor are we able to help recover lost wireless earbuds/Airpods. 

We look forward to a safe and fun year and cannot wait to see how our students grow! 

Take Care!

Cindy Conley

Principal

Kiss and Ride 

If your child is a bus rider we HIGHLY suggest they ride the school bus. Our Kiss and Ride loop is small and will likely back up onto Old Keene Mill frequently during the first week of school. To help ensure a safe arrival and departure for ALL of our students, please follow the steps below. We, Thank You, for your help in ensuring safety for ALL. 

• Students may be dropped off no earlier than 7:00 am.

• Please pack your patience! With hundreds of cars driving the loop in a short amount of time, things are bound to back up. Please know staff is doing everything possible to get everyone out and into cars safely. 
• Please put phones down - safety is key and we need everyone to be alert in our parking lot, especially as the sun rises later in winter. 
• Follow the staff member’s directions in our parking lot. 
• Do not drop students off at the front of the building. The front of the building is for buses only. 

MySchoolBucks

Did you know MySchoolBucks can be used to pay almost all student fees?  Lunch account, elective class fees, instrument rental, dance tickets, computer power cord replacements, etc.

Medication Authorization Forms

The FCPS medication authorization forms have been updated for school year 23-24 and older versions cannot be accepted.  Please use the links below for the updated forms:

For epinephrine: https://www.fcps.edu/sites/default/files/media/forms/se64.pdf

General medication form: https://www.fcps.edu/sites/default/files/media/forms/se63.pdf:

Virginia Asthma Action Plan for inhalers: https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/content/uploads/sites/58/2016/12/Asthma-Action-Plan-2019.pdf

Forms for all medications must be completed by a physician with the exception of over the counter medications (OTCs) for headaches, muscle aches, menstrual cramps or orthodontic pain. OTCs must be in original, unopened containers upon receipt.

Various language translations of the forms can be found on the FCPS website: https://www.fcps.edu/registration/forms

Please call our Public Health Nurse if you have any questions at 571-495-0011.

Irving Stays After - After School Program Registration

The After School program at Irving Middle School provides students access to high-quality activities in a safe environment for all students. The Program strives to improve academic performance, foster social, emotional, and physical well-being, all while reducing the potential for risk-taking behaviors. 

https://forms.gle/jj9RXegR3C85tJ6u6

Monday, September 11 - will serve as the first day of the After School Program and Late Buses. Activities and Clubs will not meet, however, after school with their teacher, Homework Club and Hollow Lounge will be held, students are encouraged to attend and familiarize themselves with staying after. 

Wednesday, September 13 - No After School and Late Buses

Irving Middle School is Hiring!

We often find our staff members through recommendations by a parent/guardian so we are hoping you can help us with finding excellent candidates for the vacant positions below! If you know of someone who would be interested, please have them send their resume to the person listed next to the position. Thank you for helping us find the very best to teach and work at Irving Middle School!

Vacancy

Please send resumes to: 

Instructional Assistant

Cindy Conley

Special Education Teacher (English)

Cindy Conley

Back to School Community Day

Please see the linked flyer for information on the Back to School Community Day sponsored by Mount Vernon District Supervisor Dan Storck, Neighborhood and Community Services and Fairfax County Public Libraries.

Saturday, August 19

10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Lorton Community Center

9520 Richmond Hwy., Lorton

Library News

Irving welcomes Chad Brizek, a librarian new to our school will be working along with Ms. Monk this year.  Our library program will be enriched greatly with Mr. Brizek’s skills, talent and enthusiasm.  One of his first additions to Irving will be the start of a “Battle of the Books” program; stay tuned after school starts for full details!

Summer READ! Program for Rising 7th and 8th Graders

(UPDATE 8/18/2023:  Rising 7th & 8th Irving students have read and reported 153 titles this summer.  These 40 students are eligible for the gift card giveaway!  If you want to participate, you may read and “report” books up until Sunday night at 11:59 pm; just read the instructions below!!)

Irving Middle School invites you to participate in its Summer READ! Program.  Students have the choice to read from among 24 different options on a bingo-type card.  When students complete one of the reading options in a square, they use this Google form to report to Irving what they read.  For each square that a student completes, one entry will be made for a drawing for one of four $25 Barnes & Noble gift cards.  Students may enter up to 24 times, by reading all 24 of the options listed on the bingo card.  Students may only win 1 gift card.  The winners will be announced and the prizes awarded at Irving next school year.  A link to both the bingo card and the Google Form will remain on the Irving school website throughout the summer. 

8100 Old Keene Mill Springfield, VA 22152  | Main Office: 703-912-4500
Attendance: 703-912-4545 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube