
At FCPS, our teachers never stop learning! Today, teachers from across the division participated in Professional Development sessions — Youth Mental Health First Aid Training and a CIP Checkpoint Forum 📚✏️🏫



Reminder: There is NO School on Wednesday, November 27 - Friday, November 29, 2024.
Students return to school on Monday, December 2, 2024.


A big thank you to our psychologists Dr. Amelia Jurlando and Ms. Shannon Mintze in honor of National School Psychologist Week! Their hard work and dedication to supporting staff, students, and families does not go unnoticed.



Help Choose the Gladys West Elementary School Mascot!
We're excited to announce that the new Gladys West Elementary School needs a mascot—and we want you to help decide! We invite parents, students, staff, teachers, and community members to share your ideas and submit mascot suggestions that will inspire school spirit and pride for years to come. Whether it’s an animal, a symbol, or something totally unique, your creativity could help shape the future of Gladys West Elementary. Don’t miss this chance to be part of our school’s story—click the link to submit your ideas today!
https://fxbg.link/gwes-mascot-survey


🌟 Happy World Kindness Day! 🌟
Today, Fredericksburg City Public Schools join millions around the world in celebrating the power of kindness! We encourage everyone—students, teachers, staff and families—to take a moment to share a kind word, lend a helping hand, or simply make someone smile. Every act of kindness makes our school and community a better place.
Let's spread positivity, compassion, and kindness not just today, but every day! 💙
#WorldKindnessDay #KindnessMatters #FCPSCares


Reminder: In observance of Veteran's Day, FCPS buildings will be closed Monday, November 11, 2024.


Reminder: There is no school for students tomorrow, Tuesday, November 5, 2024.


Please join us on Wednesday, December 4, at 6:30 PM for the 1st and 2nd Grade Winter Musical! Admission is FREE! 🍿🎭🎶


We Want to Hear from You
FCPS is seeking input for the next LES principal. Please submit your feedback by November 8, 2024, through the survey found at the link below.
https://forms.office.com/r/Eku6FJSKse


To my fellow principals: Your commitment to building strong communities, supporting your teams, and shaping the next generation is truly inspiring. Here’s to all the hard work behind the scenes that makes a difference. Let’s continue to lift each other up and lead with passion! 💟 Principal Courtney Wheeler
#NationalPrincipalsMonth


SPECIAL EDUCATION ADVISORY
Join us on Monday, October 28, from 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM at Lafayette for our Special Education Advisory Meeting. PEATC will join us from 5:00 PM - 5:45 PM. See you then!


📌Survey closes Thursday, October 31 at 4 PM
We Want Your Input on the 2025-26 Zoning Information
Click here to share your thoughts👉 https://www.fxbgschools.us/page/2025-26-zoning-information
We're pleased to share the proposed school zoning map for Fredericksburg City Public Schools for the 2025-26 school year, presented to the School Board on September 9, 2024. While the map is still under consideration, we recognize that it may prompt questions and concerns from our community. We encourage you to explore the proposed changes and reach out with any feedback. Your input is invaluable as we work together to support our students and families—we're committed to ensuring that every student feels at home in their new school environment.


❤️FCPS James Farmer 📔🖊️Scholars Grades 3-8 October Saturday Session at James Monroe High School






James Farmer Scholars matriculating at UMW 🦅 at the College of Education exploring, engaging, and enjoying STEM Activities! 🤖








"Happy National Principals Month to all the hard-working school leaders in Fredericksburg City Public Schools and beyond. Your commitment to our students and staff helped to guide me in my growth as a school leader. Each day I find inspiration from you and in your acts. Thank you for all you do and for all you are working to build in our Fredericksburg community." Principal Jay Snyder
#ThankAPrincipal #NationalPrincipalsMonth


We Want Your Input on the 2025-26 Zoning Information
Click here to share your thoughts👉 https://www.fxbgschools.us/page/2025-26-zoning-information
We're pleased to share the proposed school zoning map for Fredericksburg City Public Schools for the 2025-26 school year, presented to the School Board on September 9, 2024. While the map is still under consideration, we recognize that it may prompt questions and concerns from our community. We encourage you to explore the proposed changes and reach out with any feedback. Your input is invaluable as we work together to support our students and families—we're committed to ensuring that every student feels at home in their new school environment.


The Lafayette Pumpkin Run will take place TOMORROW during special area classes. We want all children to enjoy the benefits of physical activity and look forward to a fun event! All participants will receive a pumpkin shoe charm!
There is no charge to participate in the Pumpkin Run. Donations to the PE Department toward the purchase of prizes, ribbons, supplies, and equipment are very much appreciated. Thank you in advance!
Before the Race: Notify the PE staff if your student has any special health or emergency needs they'll need to be aware of.
Race Day: Make sure your student is wearing running shoes and is dressed for comfort and the weather.
Kindergarten: 11:20 AM
1st Grade: 10:25 AM
2nd Grade: 9:30 AM
3rd Grade: 12:40 PM
4th Grade 2:25 PM
5th Grade: 1:30 PM


UPCOMING Parent Trainings from PEATC & VDOE
We've highlighted options below, however, feel free to click this link for more information. https://www.fxbgschools.us/article/1818837
There are a number of upcoming parent training opportunities for families provided by the Parent Educational Advocacy Training Center (PEATC) and the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE).
Transition University: October 10 - December 4, 2024. Transition University is a free five-session self-paced online series to help parents/guardians navigate the transition process for their school-aged child and prepare for the adult world.
IEP University: November 4 - November 25, 2024- PEATC, in collaboration with VDOE, has developed IEP University (IEPU) to help provide families and professionals with accurate and useful information about IEP development and meetings.
Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC) Online Self-Paced Training: November 4 - November 25, 2024- PEATC, in collaboration with the VDOE, offers this self-paced SEAC training aimed at helping SEAC members understand the role of the local Special Education Advisory Committee in Virginia and build a more efficient and effective advisory committee. The online training will take approximately four hours, and a certificate of completion will be provided for all complete the training.
Building Strong Parent Advocates: November 4 - November 25, 2024- The Building Strong Parent Advocates training provides information to help families build a solid foundation to understand the special education process while empowering them to be their child's best advocate.


Families, just a reminder that starting Monday, October 21, with the impending Cowan Blvd closure, please expect delays. We expect 3-4 buses to experience additional travel time for drop-off and pick-up. Parents also should plan accordingly knowing Cowan Blvd will be closed. Be on the lookout for more information regarding specific bus routes.


Wishing a heartfelt Happy National Principals Month to the incredible leaders of Fredericksburg City Public Schools! Your unwavering commitment to "Excellence in Education" ensures every student is given the chance to thrive. Thank you for your dedication, care, and the lasting impact you make on our students and community. #ThankAPrincipal #NationalPrincipalsMonth
