Panther Press- September 18, 2026

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Dear Panther Family,

From September 15 to October 15, our school community is honoring the rich histories, vibrant cultures, and impactful contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans.

Throughout the month, students will explore diverse traditions through classroom projects, music, art, and special segments on our school news show. Join us in celebrating the extraordinary heritage and legacy that enrich our community every day!

At Mt. Vernon Woods, we use the word PRIDE as an acronym to represent important character traits Panthers demonstrate to be their best selves at school. PRIDE stands for Positive, Resourceful, Intentional, Determined, and Empathetic. Each week for the next five weeks, students will learn about a letter of PRIDE across all instructional spaces.

This week, your student learned what it looks like to be DETERMINED. Being DETERMINED means continuing to work through challenges.

Ask your child how they were DETERMINED this week and what helps them when they have a challenge to work through. 

Have a wonderful weekend!

Sincerely, 

Gina O'Neal, Principal

Christine Berry, Assistant Principal

Kevin Heron, Assistant Principal 


Calendar reminder graphic

 

September 21: Yom Kippur-Cultural Observance, No school- building closed

October 12: Indigenous Peoples' Day- School Planning Day- no school for students

October 30: End of Quarter 1, Early Release at 1:15pm


National Hispanic Heritage Month

National Hispanic Heritage Month

From September 15 to October 15, FCPS recognizes and celebrates the histories and cultures of the members of our community who trace their heritage to Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. Learn more about National Hispanic Heritage Month


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Not Feeling Well? When Your Child Can Come to School

School is better when your child is here! But we do understand that some days, they may feel unwell. Learn more about which symptoms are ok at school (like sneezing or sniffles), and when your child should stay home (if they have a fever, diarrhea, or vomiting, for example). 

 

If your child has a chronic illness, make sure to notify our school so that assistance can be provided if needed. Keep an open line of communication with our public health nurse. Call us as soon as you know your child will be absent and, if possible, let us know how long you think they will be out.

 

If you or your family need any kind of support, please reach out to our front office. We are here for you! Visit FCPS’ Attendance webpage for tips and strategies.


Immunization Events for FCPS Students

FCPS, in partnership with Inspire Health Alliance, will be providing school-required immunizations and optional flu shots for all FCPS students, ages 18 and under, with no out-of-pocket costs. Multiple events will take place at designated FCPS locations. 

Additional dates will be made available throughout the school year. Parents or guardians may view upcoming events and schedule an appointment for their student. Participation is voluntary. Additional immunization resources are also available. 


Save the Date: Community Conversations with Superintendent Reid

Your voice matters, and Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid wants to hear from you! At FCPS, parents are partners, working with us to set our students up for long-term success at school and in life. 

A series of Community Conversations will be held across the school division. You are invited to share your thoughts with Dr. Reid and ask her questions. Events are planned for the following dates at 6:30 p.m. (unless otherwise noted):

Registration links will be shared soon. Childcare and interpretation services will be provided. Events are one-hour long and open to all. Find out about other opportunities to connect with Dr. Reid


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Review and Sign the SR&R by September 30

The FCPS Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R) booklet explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses to enhance school safety and to create a fair, equitable, and supportive school environment. This year’s SR&R includes new Universal Grade Matrices, which are at-a-glance charts that make it easier for families to see behavior expectations and school responses for grades K-3, 4-8, and 9-12.

Families, please review the SR&R and discuss these expectations with your child. Be sure to sign the SR&R acknowledgement form by Wednesday, September 30, either by logging into SIS ParentVUE or signing and returning the Signature Sheet to your child’s school.  

Learn more by watching a short video about the SR&R (available in English and Spanish) or visiting the SR&R webpage.

Cellphones and Personal Devices

Students may only use a personal device if it is required as part of a necessary accommodation in the students’ Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Section 504 Plan. A principal or the principal’s designee may approve a limited, course-specific exception for students enrolled in a specialized class when the curriculum requires a technology tool or software that isn’t available on a standard FCPS-issued device. Learn more about the student device requirement



Annual Special Education Family Conference

 

Special Education Family Conference: Connected Communities, Thriving Students 

Register now for the annual Special Education Family Conference: Connected Communities, Thriving Students. The free conference will take place on Saturday, November 14, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Hayfield Secondary School

Hosted by FCPS in collaboration with community partners, the conference highlights the power of partnerships in supporting student success. Families, educators, and community members are invited to connect, learn, and explore available special education services, supports, and resources. 

The conference will feature an inspiring opening session, engaging breakout sessions, an exhibitor hall with local resources, and lunch for all participants.

Register for the conference and visit the Special Education Family Conference webpage for more information. Email SpecialEdFamilyConf@fcps.edu with any questions.



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