Katherine Johnson MS Weekly News - December 20, 2024

Johnson MS News19 hours 19 minutes ago

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in this issue: KJMS Upcoming Events

Make sure you’re following us on Facebook and Instagram to see pictures and videos from our events!

  • December 23 - January 3, 2025 - Winter Break (School Closed)

2025

  • January 6 - School Resumes - It will be an ODD Day (Blue)
  • January 16 - Curriculum Night (Rising 7th Graders) - 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
    • Course Selection webpage is in the process of being updated
    • Snow Date: January 21- 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
  • January 20 - Martin Luther King Jr's Day/Inauguration Day - No School
  • January 28 - End of Q2 - Full School Day
  • January 29 - Teacher Workday (No School for Students)
Principal's Message

Good afternoon, KJMS Families,

As we approach the winter break, we want to take a moment to extend our warmest wishes to all students, staff, and families. We are incredibly grateful for the dedication and support that each of you brings to our community. We hope you enjoy a well-deserved winter break filled with rest, joy, and time spent with loved ones. May this holiday season bring you peace, happiness, and a fresh start for the year ahead.

This past Saturday, KJMS hosted the first ever NAQT middle school QuizBowl Tournament for Fairfax county. Twenty-four teams competed; some near and some from far. Teams from Fairfax included Longfellow, Cooper, and Robinson. KJMS had five teams play in the tournament. Notably, Sauren K. was top point scorer for the entire tournament. For many of our students, this was their first time officially competing. We had amazing parent and staff participation in this event to help make this possible, which is why KJMS is such a special school. 

Happy Holidays and a wonderful Winter Break to all!

Chris Smith

Principal - Katherine Johnson MS 

Use FCPS Cares to recognize any of our staff members

Thank You KJMS Families

We are deeply touched by the overwhelming generosity shown by our parents during our December charity event. The incredible response to the gift card raffle for our teachers and faculty was a testament to the kindness and appreciation within our school community. 

We were also able to donate many toys, animal items, and canned items to our local charities because of you all!  We collected so many items that we have continue to drop items of at local charities. 

Knowing we have such a supportive community makes a profound difference in the lives of our students and educators. Thank you for your compassion and for making this holiday season even more special.

Happy Holidays!

KJMS Performing Arts Showcase

 

Our Performing Arts Department held their annual winter showcase.  A big thank you to our chorus, orchestra, band, and theatre arts department, for putting this together and giving students a preview of their department’s talents!  Our principal, Mr. Smith, even joined in on the festivities and performed on stage with our orchestra students.  A portion of our student body were able to view the performance from the auditorium, while others watched from a livestream.  Additionally, some of our future eagles from Daniels Run Pre-k class joined us to watch our performers.  Many thanks for all the winter cheer this brought to our faces.    

Treats From The KJMS PTA Thank you to our PTA for treating our faculty to a "Cup of Cheer!"  They provided all the fixings in the cup for a great cup of hot chocolate. Your support and partnership are truly appreciated! Event For Rising 9th Graders

A flyer for rising 9th-grade parents/guardians at Fairfax High School. It invites attendees to a "Coffee @ KJMS" event on Thursday, January 9th, from 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM. The event will feature FHS Director of Student Services, Ashley Anderson, and 9th Grade Transition Counselor, Laura Kaniewski. Attendees will learn about FHS 9th Grade VIPs and Student Services Team, diploma options, a typical 9th-grade course load, core classes available to 9th graders, supporting student academic success, and an overview of FCPS Academy options. An additional information session will be presented during the FHS Curriculum Fair later in the evening for those who cannot attend the morning event.  For questions, please contact Laura Kaniewski @[email protected]. 

Order Your 2024-2025 KJMS Yearbook Now!

Although the deadline is next year in April, why not order it now? One less thing to worry about, and you'll be guaranteed a copy. Plus, only a few extras will be ordered, so the earlier you order, the better your chances of getting one. 

Hardcover yearbook cost $25

Deadline: April 19, 2025

Yearbook Order Form

 

School Delays/Closings

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

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

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

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

Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration

Registration for the countywide lottery for Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program will open on Monday, January 13, 2025. Current pre-K students may apply for the kindergarten immersion program, and current kindergarten students may apply for the first grade immersion program for the 2024-25 school year. 

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

Parents/caregivers who are interested may want to attend an informational meeting. Meetings are held at the school site. Visit the Dual Language Immersion Program Registration page for a list of meetings by language offered. 

Get more information on the DLI Program webpage and DLI Program Registration webpage.

Calendar Reminders 

January 1, 2025: Happy New Year!  We look forward to seeing students and staff on Monday, January 6, 2025, when all FCPS schools and offices will reopen.

 

 

January 6:  Three Kings Day/Epiphany.  FCPS has designated Three Kings Day/Epiphany as a religious and cultural observance day. There is school on these days, however specific events that cannot be made up will not be held on these observance days. See the complete school year calendar.

January 7:  Orthodox Christmas.  FCPS has designated Orthodox Christmas as a religious and cultural observance day. There is school on these days, however specific events that cannot be made up will not be held on these observance days. See the complete school year calendar.

Academy Open Houses

🗓️ Save the Date: Academy Open Houses Begin in January!

FCPS high school academies will hold open houses for interested students beginning in January.

A high school academy is a center within a high school that offers advanced technical and specialized courses to prepare students for postsecondary education and/or career fields. Students enrolling in academy elective courses will be provided with opportunities to participate in a variety of career experiences including shadowing, mentoring, or internships with local businesses.

Learn more and view the calendar of Academy Open Houses.

Community Boundary Review Meetings

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

  • Friday, January 10, 2025, 6-7:30 p.m. 
  • Thursday, January 16, 2025, 1-2:30 p.m. 
  • Saturday, January 25, 2025, 9:30-11 a.m. 
  • Monday, January 27, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 
  • Tuesday, January 28, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 
  • Monday, February 10, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

. Language interpretation will be available. 

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

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

  • Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration
  • Be Among the First to Hear About Closings/Delays
  • Fall 2024 Sports Champions

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.  

KJMS Family Liaisons

If you need to contact one of our parent liaisons, Ana Maxey (Mon.- Fri.) or Jennie Choi (Tues. & Wed.), please call 703-934-2454 and leave a message with your name, your student's name and phone number. You may also contact them via email: Ana Maxey at [email protected]  or Jennie Choi at [email protected]

Family Resource Center

The Family Resource Center (PRC) offers free workshops (webinars), consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities.

Join the KJMS PTA

Help us keep the KJMS PTA active.  Become a member today and vote for the new PTA Board by clicking on the link below:

Join the KJMS PTA Today

  FCPS Cares

Do you want to celebrate a Katherine Johnson employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way, or goes beyond what is expected? If so, then click here to share with everyone.

Stay in Touch with Us

Parents/caregivers who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese may call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS. 

3801 Jermantown Road Fairfax, VA 22030 | Main Office: 703-934-2400
Attendance: 703-934-2424 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

Katherine Johnson MS Weekly News - December 13, 2024

Johnson MS News1 week ago

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in this issue: KJMS Upcoming Events

Make sure you’re following us on Facebook and Instagram to see pictures and videos from our events!

2025

  • January 6 - School Resumes - It will be an ODD Day (Blue)
  • January 16 - Curriculum Night (Rising 7th Graders) - 6:30 PM
    • Course Selection webpage is in the process of being updated.
Principal's Message

Good afternoon, KJMS Families,

We had the last of our winter performances last night as our chorus held an excellent concert. Mrs. Harbison and the students have worked hard and delivered a wonderful performance!     

We have a spirit week next week to celebrate our last week prior to winter break and encourage our students to participate.  There is always an elevated level of excitement and energy the week prior to a long break.  Please remind your student(s) of appropriate school behavior at school and on the bus.  We will continue to plan engaging lessons and maintain our routines and procedures to limit any behavior challenges.   

Have a great weekend, 

Chris Smith

Principal - Katherine Johnson MS 

Use FCPS Cares to recognize any of our staff members

Homemade Gingerbread House at KJMS

Serving happiness and spreading joy at Ms. Payne's homemade gingerbread house featured at KJMS. 

Order Your 2024-2025 KJMS Yearbook Now!

Although the deadline is next year in April, why not order it now? One less thing to worry about, and you'll be guaranteed a copy. Plus, only a few extras will be ordered, so the earlier you order, the better your chances of getting one. 

Hardcover yearbook cost $25

Deadline: April 19, 2025

Yearbook Order Form

 

Community Meetings on the Comprehensive Boundary Review

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

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

Calendar Reminders 
  • Bodhi Day
  • Winter Break (Student Holiday)

    • As a reminder, winter break will be held Monday, December 23, to Friday, January 3. To help make sure you and your children have a restful break, we have asked that no homework be assigned during this time. Teachers may assign long-range assignments in the weeks ahead of the break, allowing students to practice time management skills, but no assignments will be due immediately following the break. We look forward to welcoming students back in the new year.

      Classes resume on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. 

  • Christmas
    • A very Merry Christmas to those in our community who celebrate! Christmas is an annual holiday that commemorates the birth of Jesus of Nazareth, the person who stands at the heart of the Christian tradition. It is celebrated in many unique ways across the U.S. and the world, most commonly by the joyous giving of gifts. Learn more about Christmas.
  • Chanukah (falls during winter break)
    • Chanukah, an 8-day Festival of Lights, is a Jewish holiday commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple and the miracle of a small quantity of oil that lit the Temple’s menorah for 8 days. This year, Chanukah begins at sundown on Wednesday, December 25.

See the complete school year calendar.

Academy Open Houses

🗓️ Save the Date: Academy Open Houses Begin in January!

FCPS high school academies will hold open houses for interested students beginning in January.

A high school academy is a center within a high school that offers advanced technical and specialized courses to prepare students for postsecondary education and/or career fields. Students enrolling in academy elective courses will be provided with opportunities to participate in a variety of career experiences including shadowing, mentoring, or internships with local businesses.

Learn more and view the calendar of Academy Open Houses.

Special Education Resources

Department of Special Services (DSS) publishes a quarterly electronic newsletter to provide you with updated special education and 504 information, tips, and ideas to support you and your family. Notification of the latest publication of this newsletter is sent through the GovDelivery (News You Choose) and eNotify email platforms

The latest issue of the FCPS Special Education and 504 Newsletter is available online.

Subscribe to the Special Education and 504 Newsletter. 

Winter Resources from Fairfax County Government Agencies

⛄Student and Family Resources

Fairfax County Public Schools has compiled a list of resources for students and families in case they need assistance while schools are closed for winter break. Please visit FCPS’ winter resources webpage for information on academic support, mental health support, and county resources related to food, clothing, housing, and other needs.

School’s Closed, Learning Can Continue! 

FCPS encourages students to take advantage of fun learning opportunities during winter break and snow days. Consider these winter activities to blend education and play for your students during winter break or weather-related school closures. 

🍲 Food Assistance and Resource Guide

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

📚 Bundle Up With Books Over Break

Fairfax County Public Library’s (FCPL) winter reading adventure has begun and will continue through Friday, January 31, 2025. Visit your local FCPL library branch or visit their website to register and get a sneak peek at the prizes being offered.

Check out their Winter Reading Events webpage to learn about laser tag, movie nights, crafting sessions, Noon-Year Eve celebrations, and book discussions.

⛄ Get Outdoors for Winter Fun!

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

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

 

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

  • Join Our Teacher Team!
  • Comprehensive Boundary Review Updates

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.  

KJMS Family Liaisons

If you need to contact one of our parent liaisons, Ana Maxey (Mon.- Fri.) or Jennie Choi (Tues. & Wed.), please call 703-934-2454 and leave a message with your name, your student's name and phone number. You may also contact them via email: Ana Maxey at [email protected]  or Jennie Choi at [email protected]

Family Resource Center

The Family Resource Center (PRC) offers free workshops (webinars), consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities.

Join the KJMS PTA

Help us keep the KJMS PTA active.  Become a member today and vote for the new PTA Board by clicking on the link below:

Join the KJMS PTA Today

  FCPS Cares

Do you want to celebrate a Katherine Johnson employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way, or goes beyond what is expected? If so, then click here to share with everyone.

Stay in Touch with Us

Parents/caregivers who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese may call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS. 

3801 Jermantown Road Fairfax, VA 22030 | Main Office: 703-934-2400
Attendance: 703-934-2424 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

Katherine Johnson MS Weekly News - December 6, 2024

Johnson MS News2 weeks ago

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in this issue: KJMS Upcoming Events

Make sure you’re following us on Facebook and Instagram to see pictures and videos from our events!

Countdown to Winter Break Spirit Month

  • December 12 - Winter Choir Concert  - 7:00 PM - KJMS
  • December 23 - January 1, 2025 - Winter Break (No School)

2025

  • January 6 - School Resumes - It will be an ODD Day (Blue)
Principal's Message

Good afternoon, KJMS Families,

We had many reasons to celebrate at KJMS during this first week of December:

  • Congratulations to the 686 students who earned All A’s or A/B’s in the first quarter and received an Honor Roll certificate!
  • Congratulations to the 78 students who were honored at our Student of the Quarter ceremony on Wednesday! 
  • Excellent job by our band and orchestra students who had concerts this past week. Mr. Burts and Mrs. Sengstack have done an excellent job preparing students and the students worked hard in class and at home to sound awesome! 
  • Congratulations to Ms. Payne, Mr. Barnes, Mrs. Johnson, Ms. Kim, and Ms. Perrin for earning our Outstanding Employee Awards (see next section below).  They will move on to the Fairfax pyramid level, best of luck!
  • We hosted our rising 7th grade students from our feeder elementary schools.  It is always great to see their excitement as they begin the transition process to middle school.  Thank you to Mrs. Teague and our school counselors for a well organized event.   

Have a great weekend, 

Chris Smith

Principal - Katherine Johnson MS 

Use FCPS Cares to recognize any of our staff members

KJMS Outstanding Award Winners

On Tuesday, we announced the following individuals as winners, representing KJMS for the Fairfax County Public Schools Outstanding Employees this year. 

KJMS Outstanding Teacher:  Erin Perrin

KJMS Outstanding Operational Employee: Kara Payne

KJMS Outstanding Leader : Michele Johnson

KJMS Outstanding New Teacher:  Yujin Kim

KJMS Outstanding Professional Employee:  Curtiss Barnes

Left to Right:  Erin Perrin, Kara Payne, Michele Johnson, Yujin Kim, Curtiss Barnes.

Oder Your 2024-2025 KJMS Yearbook Now!

Although the deadline is next year in April, why not order it now? One less thing to worry about, and you'll be guaranteed a copy. Plus, only a few extras will be ordered, so the earlier you order, the better your chances of getting one. 

Hardcover yearbook cost $25

Deadline: April 19, 2025

Yearbook Order Form

 

KJMS AAP Corner

Parents and teachers interested in referring students for the spring level IV screening must submit a level IV referral form to the school’s Advanced Academic Resource Teacher (AART) by December 15, 2024. Spring 2025 screening is only available to seventh grade students.

For more information pertaining to the Spring 2025 screening process, testing and identification timeline or identification and placement, please contact Jessica Galuten at [email protected]

Calendar Reminders 
  • Bodhi Day
  • Winter Break (Student Holiday)

    • As a reminder, winter break will be held Monday, December 23, to Friday, January 3. To help make sure you and your children have a restful break, we have asked that no homework be assigned during this time. Teachers may assign long-range assignments in the weeks ahead of the break, allowing students to practice time management skills, but no assignments will be due immediately following the break. We look forward to welcoming students back in the new year.

      Classes resume on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. 

  • Christmas
    • A very Merry Christmas to those in our community who celebrate! Christmas is an annual holiday that commemorates the birth of Jesus of Nazareth, the person who stands at the heart of the Christian tradition. It is celebrated in many unique ways across the U.S. and the world, most commonly by the joyous giving of gifts. Learn more about Christmas.
  • Chanukah (falls during winter break)
    • Chanukah, an 8-day Festival of Lights, is a Jewish holiday commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple and the miracle of a small quantity of oil that lit the Temple’s menorah for 8 days. This year, Chanukah begins at sundown on Wednesday, December 25.

See the complete school year calendar.

Winter Resources from Fairfax County Government Agencies

🍲 Food Assistance and Resource Guide

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

📚 Bundle Up With Books Over Break

Fairfax County Public Library’s (FCPL) winter reading adventure has begun and will continue through Friday, January 31, 2025. Visit your local FCPL library branch or visit their website to register and get a sneak peek at the prizes being offered.

Check out their Winter Reading Events webpage to learn about laser tag, movie nights, crafting sessions, Noon-Year Eve celebrations, and book discussions.

⛄ Get Outdoors for Winter Fun!

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

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

 

Update-Potential Changes to Middle School Start Times

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

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

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

FCPS News
  • In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:
  • Family Academy Orientation
  • Literacy Resources
  • Winter Programs and Activities

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.  

KJMS Family Liaisons

If you need to contact one of our parent liaisons, Ana Maxey (Mon.- Fri.) or Jennie Choi (Tues. & Wed.), please call 703-934-2454 and leave a message with your name, your student's name and phone number. You may also contact them via email: Ana Maxey at [email protected]  or Jennie Choi at [email protected]

Family Resource Center

The Family Resource Center (PRC) offers free workshops (webinars), consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities.

Join the KJMS PTA

Help us keep the KJMS PTA active.  Become a member today and vote for the new PTA Board by clicking on the link below:

Join the KJMS PTA Today

  FCPS Cares

Do you want to celebrate a Katherine Johnson employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way, or goes beyond what is expected? If so, then click here to share with everyone.

Stay in Touch with Us

Parents/caregivers who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese may call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS. 

3801 Jermantown Road Fairfax, VA 22030 | Main Office: 703-934-2400
Attendance: 703-934-2424 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

Katherine Johnson MS Weekly News - November 26, 2024

Johnson MS News3 weeks 3 days ago

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Principal's Message

Dear KJMS Families,

As we approach Thanksgiving, I want to take a moment to express my gratitude for our school community. Our students, families, staff, and teachers make this school a truly special place, filled with growth, learning, and kindness.

Thanksgiving is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the things that bring us joy and gratitude. Whether you’re spending the holiday with loved ones, enjoying some well-deserved rest, or creating new traditions, I hope your break is filled with warmth, laughter, and cherished memories.

Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving break! We look forward to welcoming everyone back with renewed energy and enthusiasm.

A reminder that all FCPS schools and offices will be closed Wednesday (11/27) through Friday (11/29) for Thanksgiving Break.  

Enjoy the break, 

Chris Smith

Principal - Katherine Johnson MS 

Use FCPS Cares to recognize any of our staff members

  FCPS Cares

Do you want to celebrate a Katherine Johnson employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way, or goes beyond what is expected? If so, then click here to share with everyone.

Stay in Touch with Us

Parents/caregivers who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese may call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS. 

3801 Jermantown Road Fairfax, VA 22030 | Main Office: 703-934-2400
Attendance: 703-934-2424 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

KJMS After-School Updates

Johnson MS News3 weeks 4 days ago

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In this Issue

  • Wishing You a Happy Thanksgiving!
  • No Regular After-School Activities on Tuesday, 11/26
  • After-School Kiss and Ride
  • KJMS After-School Clubs-by-Day
  • KJMS After-School Google Calendar
Wishing You a Happy Thanksgiving!

Dear Katherine Johnson Middle School Families,

As we approach this season of gratitude, the after-school program team would like to take a moment to thank you for being such an important part of our community.

We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to work with your children, supporting their growth, creativity, and learning beyond the school day. Their energy, curiosity, and unique talents make our program a joy to lead.

This Thanksgiving, we hope you find time to relax, reflect, and enjoy special moments with your loved ones. May your holiday be filled with warmth, laughter, and plenty of delicious food!

Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to seeing everyone after the break.

Happy Thanksgiving!

No Regular After-School Activities on Tuesday, 11/26

There will be no regular after-school activities on Tuesday, November 26th.  Futsal Tryouts will still be happening and those who signed up for a tryout on that date should plan on attending.

After-School Kiss and Ride

After-School Kiss and Ride

Door 7 (near the cafeteria) is the location for pickup during After-School hours.  Feel free to text your student when you arrive so they can meet you outside Door 7.

KJMS After-School Clubs-by-Day

 

Take a look at the KJMS Fall/Winter Clubs-by-Day Calendar! 

Click on the links for descriptions and signup information.  This document will be updated as more clubs are added.

KJMS After-School Google Calendar

 

The KJMS After-School Google Calendar is a live calendar of after-school program dates for the Fall/Winter.  View club schedules, cancellation dates and upcoming programming.

Stay in Touch with Us

Parents who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese can call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS and to receive support if they are having difficulty communicating with their children's schools due to a language barrier.

3801 Jermantown Road Fairfax, VA 22030 | Main Office: 703-934-2400
Attendance: 703-934-2424 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

Katherine Johnson MS Weekly News - November 22, 2024

Johnson MS News4 weeks ago

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in this issue: KJMS Upcoming Events

Make sure you’re following us on Facebook and Instagram to see pictures and videos from our events!

  • November 18-22 - Career and College Day Spirit Week
  • November 19 - Virtual PTA Meeting - 7:00 PM
  • November 27- 29 - Thanksgiving Break (no early release on 11/26)
  • December 3 - Book Fair - Family Night - 5:00-7:00 PM
    • Before Band Concert
  • December 3 - Band Concert - 7:00 PM - KJMS
Principal's Message

Good afternoon, KJMS Families,

I am happy to announce that we have elected a PTA board for the 24-25 school year. Thank you to the following parents for volunteering for these positions:

  • President - Lacey O’Donnell
  • Secretary - Dustin Wright 
  • Treasurer - Leslie Woods 

Please take a few minutes to join the PTA and you can send any ideas you have.

Join the KJMS PTA Today. We will share more information once our officers are able to get our PTA up and running.

Congratulations to our drama teacher, Ms. Crook, and all our students who participated in Dorothy in Wonderland. It was an outstanding production, and we look forward to our spring performance! 

A reminder that all FCPS schools and offices will be closed next Wednesday (11/27) through Friday (11/29) for Thanksgiving Break.

Enjoy the weekend, 

Chris Smith

Principal - Katherine Johnson MS 

Use FCPS Cares to recognize any of our staff members

KJMS - Holiday Attendance

As the holiday season approaches, we want to remind you about the importance of regular school attendance. Every day in the classroom counts towards your child's academic progress and overall development.

We understand that the holidays can be a busy time, but we kindly ask that you avoid scheduling vacations during school days. Missing even a few days of school can disrupt learning and make it difficult for your child to catch up.

If your family has already made plans for travel during school days please contact us before you leave. The best way to report an absence is by email, [email protected] , or phone, 703-934-2424. All absences due to travel will be considered unexcused in accordance with region attendance reporting directives. 

By prioritizing school attendance, we can ensure that your child has the best possible learning experience and is well-prepared for their future.

Thank you for your cooperation.

KJMS Attendance Team

Upcoming Donation Event Count Down To Winter Break

Upcoming Donation Events for December 4, 10, & 19.

KJMS AAP Corner

Parents and teachers interested in referring students for the spring level IV screening must submit a level IV referral form to the school’s Advanced Academic Resource Teacher (AART) by December 15, 2024. Spring 2025 screening is only available to seventh grade students.

For more information pertaining to the Spring 2025 screening process, testing and identification timeline or identification and placement, please contact Jessica Galuten at [email protected]

KJMS Book Fair 2024

December 2-6, 2024

7:00 AM - 2:30 PM daily

Family Night:

Tuesday, December 3

5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

before the Band Concert

Book flyer in English

Book flyer in Spanish

KJMS Partnering with Food For Neighbors

Our school is partnering with Food For Neighbors to help feed our local students who deal with food insecurity outside of school hours. Even in an area as wealthy as Northern Virginia, one in four kids are struggling with hunger. 

Food For Neighbors is a local organization addressing this problem by collecting food from our community via the Red Bag Program and donating directly to our local schools. The food is then distributed to the students every week through our food pantry. Read more...

 

Food For Neighbors Flier

Student Feedback Opportunity for FCPS Cell Phone Policy and SR&R

FCPS is working with K12 Insight to host a community forum for families, staff members, and students to provide feedback on the school division’s cell phone policies and practices, and the Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R) document. FCPS is looking for more student participants (grades 3-12) to help ensure diverse perspectives from our community.

The community forum will be held on Tuesday, December 10, 6:30-8 p.m., at the Willow Oaks Administrative Center. If your student is interested in providing feedback, please visit the Cell Phone Policy Forum registration page to learn more. Families must register their child by Monday, November 25.

Social and Emotional Learning Screener Results Coming Soon

One of the ways FCPS supports the mental wellness of all students is through the Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener. In October, students in grades 3-12 took this screener, which gives information about their skills such as achieving goals, handling emotions, building relationships with adults and peers, and making good choices. 

The screener also helps students evaluate their school community’s efforts to make them feel valued, included, and supported. Screener data is used to create learning, experiences, and environments for students to succeed.

In early December, families will be able to view student SEL Screener results in SIS ParentVUE. For families who do not have an active ParentVUE account, results will be sent by mail.

Learn more about the screener on the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage. For help understanding your child’s results or ideas to support them at home, review the Family Guide or contact your child’s school. 

Register for ParentVUE

Learn how to activate your ParentVUE account, so you can easily access your child’s results and other helpful information.

Preparing for Winter

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

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

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

Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

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

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

Boundary Review Community Meeting

Community meetings regarding FCPS’ comprehensive boundary review will take place in each of the division's six regions. You are encouraged to attend the meeting in our region, which will take place on Monday, December 2.  

Please register in advance by clicking on the date. Language interpretation will be available. 

If you are unable to attend on this date, view the full list of meetings on the Comprehensive School Boundary Review webpage. 

Special Education Resources for Families

Fairfax County Public Schools has the following resources available to help assist families of students with special needs. 

  • The Office of Special Education Procedural Support helps staff, families, and students with the implementation of and compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, as amended. 
  • Kathy Murphy, the assistant ombuds for special education, provides information and support to caregivers and students regarding special education and Section 504 services. Contact the Ombuds Office by submitting a question, calling 571-423-4014, or emailing [email protected]. 

Additionally, the Virginia Department of Education has updated the Virginia Family's Guide to Special Education. This state guide was developed to help those involved in special education including families, teachers, school administrators, advocates, and  students.

Handwashing

As we transition into the fall and winter seasons, it's important to remind our students, staff, and families about the importance of practicing good hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette. These simple practices can significantly reduce the spread of germs, particularly during the upcoming holiday season when gatherings and travel increase.

Key Reminders:

  • Wash Hands Frequently: Encourage students to wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating, after using the restroom, and after blowing their nose, coughing, or sneezing.  
  • Use Hand Sanitizer: When soap and water are not readily available, provide access to alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol content.
  • Cover Coughs and Sneezes: Remind students to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue or their elbow when coughing or sneezing. Dispose of tissues properly in a wastebasket and wash their hands.
  • Avoid Touching Face: Discourage students from touching their eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. 
Action Required

Please view and share the following videos with your school community:

Hand Washing Prevents The Spread of the Flu 

Your Health Is In Your Hands with the Help from a Shark

Calendar Reminders 
  • Family Engagement Month 
  • Native American Heritage Month
  • Thanksgiving:  Schools and offices will be closed November 27-29.
  • National Special Education Day

See the complete school year calendar.

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

  • Preparing for Winter Weather
  • SEL Screener Results
  • Varsity Girls Wrestling Is New Winter Sport

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.  

KJMS Family Liaisons

If you need to contact one of our parent liaisons, Ana Maxey (Mon.- Fri.) or Jennie Choi (Tues. & Wed.), please call 703-934-2454 and leave a message with your name, your student's name and phone number. You may also contact them via email: Ana Maxey at [email protected]  or Jennie Choi at [email protected]

Family Resource Center

The Family Resource Center (PRC) offers free workshops (webinars), consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities.

Join the KJMS PTA

Help us keep the KJMS PTA active.  Become a member today and vote for the new PTA Board by clicking on the link below:

Join the KJMS PTA Today

  FCPS Cares

Do you want to celebrate a Katherine Johnson employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way, or goes beyond what is expected? If so, then click here to share with everyone.

Stay in Touch with Us

Parents/caregivers who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese may call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS. 

3801 Jermantown Road Fairfax, VA 22030 | Main Office: 703-934-2400
Attendance: 703-934-2424 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

KJMS PTA News - Virtual Meeting Tonight - November 19, 2024

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Reminder- KJMS PTA Virtual Meeting Tonight! Tuesday, November 19th at 7:00 PM

Link to Join KJMS PTA Meeting 

Welcome to another exciting year for the 7th and 8th grade Eagles!  The KJMS PTA is looking to begin planning its year. This is a great opportunity to learn about school updates, volunteer opportunities, and how you can get involved in supporting your child's education.  

Agenda for tonight's meeting:

  • Introduction of new PTA Officers.
  • Bringing PTA into Compliance - seek volunteers for SY 23-24 financial review.
  • PTA ideas for 24-25 - How to best serve students and staff.

Please also consider becoming a PTA member. You may do so very easily online by clicking here.  

Hope to see you tomorrow tonight! 

Thank you,

Christopher Smith

Principal

Stay in Touch with Us

Parents/caregivers who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese may call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS. View the list of phone numbers.

3801 Jermantown Road Fairfax, VA 22030 | Main Office: 703-934-2400
Attendance: 703-934-2424 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

KJMS After-School Updates

Johnson MS News1 month ago

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In this Issue

  • KJMS Basketball Banquet
  • KJMS Spelling Bee Competition
  • KJMS Futsal Team Tryouts
  • After-School Kiss and Ride
  • KJMS After-School Clubs-by-Day
  • KJMS After-School Google Calendar
KJMS Basketball Banquet

KJMS Basketball Banquet

KJMS Basketball celebrated the end of a successful season this past Thursday evening!  Thank you to the players, families and coaches who made this our best season to date.  Futsal Season is up next!

KJMS Spelling Bee Competition

KJMS Spelling Bee

KJMS will host a school Spelling Bee in February!  Champions from the KJMS School Spelling Bee will have the opportunity to compete in the Fairfax County Spelling Bee in March 2025.

KJMS Spelling Bee Meeting Schedule

KJMS Spelling Bee Interest Meeting: Wednesday, November 20th

Spelling Bee Mock Test: January - TBD

KJMS Spelling Bee Competition: February - TBD

Signup for the after-school KJMS Spelling Bee Interest Meeting:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050D4AAAA722A4F49-53139683-kjms

KJMS Futsal Team Tryouts

KJMS Futsal will have 1 Boys Team and  1 Girls Team to compete in the Western Fairfax Middle School Futsal League this Winter.

Tryouts - Will take place in the KJMS Gym from 2:30-4:30. 

Students can signup for 2 tryout dates:

Nov. 19, 22, 26

Dec. 3, 6, 10

On December 13th, selected players will be invited to a final tryout (Callback Tryout)

Practices - Will take place in the KJMS Gym from 2:30-4:30. 

Tuesday/Friday Practices Begin 12/17

Please note, there are no late buses on Tuesdays.

Games - Will take place on Thursday evenings - locations subject to change

January 9 - Rocky Run @KJMS

January 16 - Franklin @KJMS

January 23 - Hughes @KJMS

January 30 - KJMS @Liberty

February 6 - KJMS @Herndon 

After-School Kiss and Ride

After-School Kiss and Ride

Door 7 (near the cafeteria) is the location for pickup during After-School hours.  Feel free to text your student when you arrive so they can meet you outside Door 7.

KJMS After-School Clubs-by-Day

 

Take a look at the KJMS Fall/Winter Clubs-by-Day Calendar! 

Click on the links for descriptions and signup information.  This document will be updated as more clubs are added.

KJMS After-School Google Calendar

 

The KJMS After-School Google Calendar is a live calendar of after-school program dates for the Fall/Winter.  View club schedules, cancellation dates and upcoming programming.

Stay in Touch with Us

Parents who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese can call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS and to receive support if they are having difficulty communicating with their children's schools due to a language barrier.

3801 Jermantown Road Fairfax, VA 22030 | Main Office: 703-934-2400
Attendance: 703-934-2424 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

Katherine Johnson MS Weekly News - November 15, 2024

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Make sure you’re following us on Facebook and Instagram to see pictures and videos from our events!

As part of this year’s career day, KJMS had arranged for a Fairfax County Police Helicopter to land and take off on the school’s athletic field.

In this issue: KJMS Upcoming Events
  • November 15 -16 - Fall Theatre Play- Dorothy in Wonderland - Ticket purchase
    • Friday @ 7:00 PM
    • Saturday@ 2:00 PM
  • November 18-22 - Career and College Day Spirit Week
  • November 19 - Virtual PTA Meeting - 7:00 PM
  • November 27- 29 - Thanksgiving Break (no early release on 11/26)
Principal Message

Dear KJMS Families,

The highlight of this past week was our annual Career Day!  A big thank you to our school counseling team for organizing this event and our community members who volunteered their time to present to our students.  Opening night for our fall production of Dorothy in Wonderland is tonight at 7:00 PM.  There is a second show tomorrow at 2:00 PM.  I hope to see many of our students and families at one of the shows!  

We will have a virtual PTA meeting on Tuesday, November 19th at 7:00pm.  We will send the link for the meeting on Tuesday, I hope you can join us. 

With the weather getting cold, please remind your child to bring a jacket/sweatshirt to school for outdoor recess. Recess is a daily activity for all middle school students unless canceled due to inclement or severe weather. 

We ask for your partnership with our students’ use of technology. While we have seen much less cell phone use this year, there has been an increase in students playing video games on their FCPS issued laptops. This is a reminder that student laptops are for instructional purposes, and not for other uses such as gaming. This applies to the instructional day, and also includes our after-school program. FCPS technology use states: The borrowed FCPS student device should be used only by the student to whom it is assigned, and only for assignments and tasks related to FCPS learning programs. It may not be used for personal activities like streaming video services, gaming, or social media.

Student Device Responsible Use Guidelines

Parents who are interested in knowing more about their child’s internet activity on an FCPS device can sign up to our online service. It is a free service to FCPS parents. Parents can sign up to receive a weekly Parent Report from Lightspeed, our internet content filtering service. The report will provide a list of the top sites the child visited that week.  For more information, please visit:

Lightspeed Parent Report Request

Enjoy the weekend, 

Chris Smith

Principal - Katherine Johnson MS 

Use FCPS Cares to recognize any of our staff members

KJMS Celebrates Its Veterans

Our Purple Star Corner now includes pictures of our staff, their family members, and our students' parents who served in the military! Thank you for your service!

Join the KJMS PTA

Help us keep the KJMS PTA active.  Become a member today and vote for the new PTA Board by clicking on the link below:

Join the KJMS PTA Today

Next PTA Meeting is on Wednesday, November 19 at 7:00 PM. 

This meeting will be virtual. 

Link will be sent out via email next week on Tuesday.

Career and College Day Spirit Week 11/18-11/22

Monday:  Doing the most @ KJMS! Wear KJ colors.

Tuesday:  Fairfax in my future! Wear Fairfax colors.

Wednesday:  College Gear Day.  Wear college gear or colors.

Thursday:  Dream Career Gear Day.  Wear your future career gear.

Friday:  Our future is bright Spirit Day.  Wear neon colors.

KJMS Career Day 2024

This Tuesday, November 12, we held a fantastic Career Day with over 60 presenters! Our students had the opportunity to learn from a diverse group of professionals, including community members, local officials, family members of staff, friends, and many of our wonderful parents who volunteered to share their career journeys and insights. We want to extend a huge thank you to everyone who contributed to making this event so meaningful. A special shout-out goes to our community partner, Fairfax Bakery, for generously providing refreshments for the day. Thank you all for helping to make Career Day an inspiring experience for our students!

KJMS Book Fair 2024

Book flyer in English

Book flyer in Spanish

Punctuality Matters: The Impact of Chronic Absenteeism

Currently, KJMS has 135 students who are considered chronically absent.  That is 11.5% of the population of the school. Students who have 18 missed days for the entire year are considered chronically absent and are more likely to show signs of learning loss and social hardships with their peer groups.

We understand that there are circumstances why your child might need to stay home. Please know that if a child has a fever, has vomited or has had diarrhea in the last 24 hours, or is showing signs of serious illness that needs to be seen by a medical professional, they need to stay home until they are symptom free for 24 hours. All other medical issues like a stomachache, headache, or seasonal allergies are not a reason to keep your child home. We have adults in the building that can assist your child with these issues and get them back to class for learning.

We want to emphasize the importance of regular school attendance for your child's academic success and future prospects. Chronic absenteeism, even for seemingly small reasons, can have a significant negative impact on a student's education.

Did you know:

  • Missed days add up: Even a few days of missed school per month can lead to significant learning gaps.
  • Habitual tardiness is harmful: Arriving late disrupts the learning environment and can make it difficult for students to stay focused.
  • Absenteeism affects grades: Students who miss school frequently are more likely to have lower grades and struggle with coursework.

 Let's work together to ensure your child is in class every day. Please help them develop a consistent routine that allows for plenty of time to rest, get ready, and arrive at school on time.  Getting a decent night’s sleep, is critical for our students.  You can help them by turning off electronics at least an hour before bedtime. If your child is facing challenges that are preventing them from attending school regularly, please don't hesitate to reach out to your child's teacher or school counselor.

KJMS Partnering with Food For Neighors

Food For Neighbors Flier

Boundary Review Community Meeting

Community meetings regarding FCPS’ comprehensive boundary review will take place in each of the division's six regions. You are encouraged to attend the meeting in our region, which will take place on Monday, December 2.  

Please register in advance by clicking on the date. Language interpretation will be available. 

If you are unable to attend on this date, view the full list of meetings on the Comprehensive School Boundary Review webpage. 

FCPS News
  • In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:
  • Veterans Day Recognitions
  • Resources on IEPs, Financial Aid, Literacy, Community Leadership
  • Teacher Hiring Event

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.  

Calendar Reminders
  • National Family Engagement Month:
  • Native American Heritage Month:
  • Thanksgiving

See the complete school year calendar

KJMS Family Liaisons

If you need to contact one of our parent liaisons, Ana Maxey (Mon.- Fri.) or Jennie Choi (Tues. & Wed.), please call 703-934-2454 and leave a message with your name, your student's name and phone number. You may also contact them via email: Ana Maxey at [email protected]  or Jennie Choi at [email protected]

Family Resource Center

The Family Resource Center (PRC) offers free workshops (webinars), consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities.

Sign up for the FRC newsletter or visit their webinar webpage to view the descriptions of each webinar listed below.

✨ Fostering trusting partnerships with families is included in Pillar B of the FCPS Strategic Plan: Vibrant Home, School, and Community Partnerships.

  FCPS Cares

Do you want to celebrate a Katherine Johnson employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way, or goes beyond what is expected? If so, then click here to share with everyone.

Stay in Touch with Us

Parents/caregivers who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese may call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS. 

3801 Jermantown Road Fairfax, VA 22030 | Main Office: 703-934-2400
Attendance: 703-934-2424 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

KJMS After-School Updates

Johnson MS News1 month 1 week ago

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In this Issue

  • KJMS Appian Board Games Club Tournament
  • KJMS Cross Country Banquet
  • KJMS Spelling Bee Competition
  • KJMS Pickleball Club
  • 1st Quarter AS Attendance Celebration
  • KJMS Futsal Team Tryouts
  • After-School Kiss and Ride
  • KJMS After-School Clubs-by-Day
  • KJMS After-School Google Calendar
Appian Board Games Club Tournament

Appian Board Games Club - Splendor Tournament

This past Saturday, KJMS Appian Board Games Club hosted a countywide Splendor tournament.  Over 20 players from 7 FCPS Middle Schools competed for some big prizes.  KJMS was the top team with 4 players advancing to the final round of 8 players.

Thanks to all who made this tournament a success.  

Appian Board Games Club will resume meeting in January and will be open to new members as we prepare for our next tournament!

KJMS Cross Country Banquet

KJMS Cross Country Banquet

KJMS Cross Country celebrated the end of a successful season this past Thursday evening!  Thank you to the runners, families and coaches who made this our best season to date.  We  hope everyone will return for the Spring Track and Field season!

KJMS Spelling Bee Competition

KJMS Spelling Bee

KJMS will host a school Spelling Bee in February!  Champions from the KJMS School Spelling Bee will have the opportunity to compete in the Fairfax County Spelling Bee in March 2025.

KJMS Spelling Bee Meeting Schedule

KJMS Spelling Bee Interest Meeting: Wednesday, November 20th

Spelling Bee Mock Test: January - TBD

KJMS Spelling Bee Competition: February - TBD

Signup for the after-school KJMS Spelling Bee Interest:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050D4AAAA722A4F49-53139683-kjms

Signup will go live on Wednesday, 11/13 at 3pm

KJMS Pickleball Club

Pickleball Club will meet on Thursdays from 2:30-4:00.

We will have open play as well as tournament play.

We will play in the main gym or outside (weather permitting).

Meeting Dates: 

Nov. 21

Dec. 5, 12, 19

Jan. 9, 16, 23, 30

Signup goes live on Wednesday, November 13 at 3pm

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050D4AAAA722A4F49-53062427-pickleball

1st Quarter AS Attendance Celebration

On Wednesday, November 13th, we will celebrate a successful 1st Quarter of After-School! The celebration will take place from 2:15-3:00pm in the cafeteria. 

We will be serving Chik-Fil-A sandwiches and a soda to any student who had 16+ After-School sign-in days during the 1st Quarter.  There will also be prizes and raffles that all students will have a chance at winning!

Have your student check the After-School Schoology Course to see if they had 16 or more after-school sign-in days during the 1st Quarter.

KJMS Futsal Team Tryouts

KJMS Futsal will have 1 Boys Team and  1 Girls Team to compete in the Western Fairfax Middle School Futsal League this Winter.

Tryouts - Will take place in the KJMS Gym from 2:30-4:30. 

Students should signup for 2 tryout dates:

Nov. 19, 22, 26

Dec. 3, 6, 10

On December 13th, selected players will be invited to a final tryout (Callback Tryout)

Practices - Will take place in the KJMS Gym from 2:30-4:30. 

Tuesday/Friday Practices Begin 12/17

Please note, there are no late buses on Tuesdays.

Games - Will take place on Thursday evenings - locations subject to change

January 9 - Rocky Run @KJMS

January 16 - Franklin @KJMS

January 23 - Hughes @KJMS

January 30 - KJMS @Liberty

February 6 - KJMS @Herndon 

Signup will go live on Wednesday, November 6th at 3pm

After-School Kiss and Ride

After-School Kiss and Ride

Door 7 (near the cafeteria) is the location for pickup during After-School hours.  Feel free to text your student when you arrive so they can meet you outside Door 7.

KJMS After-School Clubs-by-Day

 

Take a look at the KJMS Fall/Winter Clubs-by-Day Calendar! 

Click on the links for descriptions and signup information.  This document will be updated as more clubs are added.

KJMS After-School Google Calendar

 

The KJMS After-School Google Calendar is a live calendar of after-school program dates for the Fall/Winter.  View club schedules, cancellation dates and upcoming programming.

Stay in Touch with Us

Parents who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese can call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS and to receive support if they are having difficulty communicating with their children's schools due to a language barrier.

3801 Jermantown Road Fairfax, VA 22030 | Main Office: 703-934-2400
Attendance: 703-934-2424 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

Katherine Johnson MS Weekly News - November 8, 2024

Johnson MS News1 month 1 week ago

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In this issue: KJMS Upcoming Events Principal Message

Good afternoon, KJMS Families,

We held a virtual ”Parent Academy” meeting for families a couple weeks ago on the topic of Schoology and SIS ParentVue. You can access the resources and the video of the session on ourParent Academy Webpage.  Congratulations to our chorus students for an outstanding performance last week at the Fairfax Pyramid Chorus Concert.  It was great to hear their talented voices and see some future Eagles! Sixteen of our Orchestra students have earned spots in the District XI Middle School Honors Orchestra, congratulations!  

FCPS  has created a literacy resource page for families, you can access the information Literacy Resource Webpage. This page has resources to help you encourage literacy at home. It also has info to help you partner with school staff in supporting your student's literacy progress in reading and writing. 

A reminder school is closed on Monday, November 11th in observance of  Veteran’s Day.  Thank you to all our staff, family members, and community members who have or are currently serving in the U.S. Military.  

Enjoy the weekend, 

Chris Smith

Principal - Katherine Johnson MS 

Use FCPS Cares to recognize any of our staff members

KJMS Celebrates Its Veterans

Veterans Day is a special day dedicated to acknowledging and expressing our gratitude to the brave men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Their sacrifices and dedication ensure our freedom and safety.

Veterans Day is observed on November 11th each year to honor and celebrate the service of all U.S. military veterans. The origins of Veterans Day date back to the end of World War I. The fighting ceased when an armistice, or temporary cessation of hostilities, went into effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month in 1918. This day was originally known as Armistice Day.

In 1954, after both World War II and the Korean War, Congress, at the urging of the veterans’ service organizations, amended the Act of 1938 by striking out the word "Armistice" and inserting the word "Veterans." Thus, November 11th became a day to honor American veterans of all wars.

If you have served, or if anyone in your family has served in any of the Military Branches, we would like to celebrate you during the month of November. Please send us a picture, listing name, family relation (i.e., mother of…, father of …), and Branch of Service. We will display those pictures in our Purple Star designated area in the Eagles Landing location.

Please submit your pictures to Maria Marris @ [email protected] , Andrea Holmes @ [email protected] , or drop them off at the main office.

Thank you,

Purple Star Committee at KJMS

Veterans Day Spirit Week Nominations For Outstanding Employee Awards Deadline Extended

Since we have had a few holidays at the start of November, we are going to extend the nominations to COB Wednesday, November 13th. Please consider nominating a staff member in the categories below. 

Nominations are now open for the Outstanding Employee Awards! To submit a nomination for a KJMS Outstanding Employee in one of the categories below, please complete the nomination through the Google form links below. You may nominate one employee at our school or multiple employees (one individual may only nominate one employee per category).

All that is required for a preliminary nomination is a paragraph or two about how this employee demonstrates exceptional work in the criteria for that category. The Google form has more information regarding the criteria for each of these awards and eligibility requirements.

Outstanding Teacher

Outstanding New Teacher

Outstanding Professional Employee

Outstanding Operational Employee 

Outstanding Leader

If you have any questions, please contact Friday Oeur via email at [email protected].

Thank you.

KJMS ESOL Potluck Dinner

KJMS celebrating diversity through ESOL Potluck last night where students and families brought food from their countries to share and connect with other families from across the globe. This event brought families together and build connections outside of KJMS. It was also an opportunity for families to meet with their child’s teacher in an informal setting. For many families, this was the first opportunity to visit their child’s middle school. Thank you to all the families that attended the event with delicious food from their country.

Lost & Found

Our lost and found has grown since the start of the school year. Please remind your students to check the lost and found for their water bottles, clothing and lunch boxes. Any items NOT claimed by November 21 will be donated to a local charity. Any questions please contact the main office. Thank you.

Punctuality Matters: The Impact of Chronic Absenteeism

Currently, KJMS has 112 students who are considered chronically absent.  That is 9.6% of the population of the school. Students who have 18 missed days for the entire year are considered chronically absent and are more likely to show signs of learning loss and social hardships with their peer groups.

We understand that there are circumstances why your child might need to stay home. Please know that if a child has a fever, has vomited or has had diarrhea in the last 24 hours, or is showing signs of serious illness that needs to be seen by a medical professional, they need to stay home until they are symptom free for 24 hours. All other medical issues like a stomachache, headache, or seasonal allergies are not a reason to keep your child home. We have adults in the building that can assist your child with these issues and get them back to class for learning.

We want to emphasize the importance of regular school attendance for your child's academic success and future prospects. Chronic absenteeism, even for seemingly small reasons, can have a significant negative impact on a student's education.

Did you know:

  • Missed days add up: Even a few days of missed school per month can lead to significant learning gaps.
  • Habitual tardiness is harmful: Arriving late disrupts the learning environment and can make it difficult for students to stay focused.
  • Absenteeism affects grades: Students who miss school frequently are more likely to have lower grades and struggle with coursework.

 Let's work together to ensure your child is in class every day. Please help them develop a consistent routine that allows for plenty of time to rest, get ready, and arrive at school on time.  Getting a decent night’s sleep, is critical for our students.  You can help them by turning off electronics at least an hour before bedtime. If your child is facing challenges that are preventing them from attending school regularly, please don't hesitate to reach out to your child's teacher or school counselor.

Return Your Federal Impact Aid Survey

FCPS is asking all families to complete a Federal Impact Aid Survey as soon as possible. The form is available in ParentVUE under Online Packets (in the upper right corner after logging in). Hear from FCPS Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid and Fort Belvoir Garrison Commander Col. David Stewart about why this federal program is so important for our schools.

Please complete this form for each school-aged child in your household. Information from this survey resulted in more than $4 million in funding last year from the U.S. Department of Education. The funds support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

Please watch this video on Impact Aid and visit the Federal Impact Aid Survey page.


Register for ParentVUE

Learn how to activate your ParentVUE account, so you can easily submit your survey and have access to other helpful information about your child.

KJMS Health Room Request

KJMS Health Room is having a Clothes Drive

November 6 - December 6, 2024

What is needed the most are new and unopened packages of socks and undergarments.

For boys & girls ages 12-14 years old

***Donation Box will be outside of room 001A (HEALTH ROOM- NEAR MAIN OFFICE)

Thank you in advance for your time and donation.

Donations will go to families of KJMS😊

KJMS Partnering with Food For Neighors

Hunger is an unwelcome guest this holiday season.

 For many families in our school community struggling financially, providing daily meals is difficult and a special holiday meal can become a source of worry and stress. Help a local family know the joy of gathering together for a holiday meal. We’re partnering with Food For Neighbors to provide $50 grocery store gift cards to our most vulnerable families. Visit the Food For Neighbors’ website to learn how you can help. Thank you for your generosity. 

Learn more here: www.foodforneighbors.org/home/holiday-meals/

KJMS Theater Event FHS Fall Festival

The festival promises to be a memorable evening with activities that everyone can enjoy, including a bonfire, s’mores, club booths, and the much-anticipated high school regional football game. 

Date: November 15th, 2024

Time: 4:30-6:30pm 

Location: Fairfax High School Field house at door 21

Family Orientation Seminar

This interactive orientation seminar provides information about FCPS, the links between family engagement and student achievement, school staff you should know, and programs and technology considerations for families. The orientation also includes a helpful discussion for families who are new to the United States.

Sessions in English will be held online on Tuesday, November 12, at 6:30 p.m.; Tuesday, December 10, at 6 p.m.; and Thursday, December 19, at 6 p.m. Register in advance. 

Visit the Family Academy catalog page for dates this orientation will be offered in Korean and Spanish.

Applications for Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology Due Friday, November 15

Middle school students who have an aptitude and passion for STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) are encouraged to apply for admission to the Class of 2029 at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology.

Applications must be started by 4 p.m., Wednesday, November 13, and submitted by Friday, November 15, at 4 p.m.

Tutoring Resources for Families

Is your family looking for resources to help support your child’s academic success? FCPS’ Family Resource Center (FRC) maintains a list of district employees who hold a valid Virginia teaching credential and who are available to be hired as a tutor by parents. FRC maintains this list, but families are responsible for contacting and working directly with tutors. This list is not “approved” by FCPS and is only meant as a resource.

FCPS also partners with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors' services at no cost, including weekly live online classes, on demand 24/7 chat tutoring, essay editing, study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests.

✨ FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan Goal 3: Academic Growth and Excellence, reminds us of our commitment to supporting each and every student and helping them meet or exceed high academic standards.

Families Reunite Workshops

Family and School Partnerships offers a course for Spanish-speaking immigrant families who are going through the reunification process. It is designed for parents/caregivers and children who have lived apart for at least one year and were recently reunited.

The six-hour Zoom course takes place over three consecutive weeks. Upcoming sessions include:

  • Tuesdays, November 12, 19, and 26; 6:30-8:30 p.m.
  • Mondays, December 2, 9, and 16; 6:30-8:30 p.m.

We encourage families to attend every session to fully benefit from the program. Register for Families Unite and learn more about FCPS’ Immigrant Family Reunification Program. 

Services for Hearing-Impaired and Visually-Impaired Students

Students with sensory disabilities require specialized services and support to access instruction that is typically presented visually and auditorily (by means of hearing). FCPS provides educational services to students who are deaf, hearing-impaired, or visually impaired. They are supported in various settings, including at their school or through itinerant specialists who travel to different schools to work with students, rather than being based in a single school. Learn more about Services for Students Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing and Services for Students Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired.

Visit the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) website for Resources for Serving Students with Sensory Disabilities.

IEP Palooza and Community Resource Fair
  • Parents/caregivers, school staff, and students over the age of 14 are invited to attend an interactive event celebrating the individualized education program (IEP) process. The IEP Palooza and Community Resource Fair will take place on Saturday, November 16, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m., at Jackson Middle School. 

The event is sponsored by Fairfax County Special Education Parent Teacher Association (SEPTA). Activities include simulated IEP meetings, break-out sessions on the various parts of an IEP, and a resource fair to learn more about community supports. Register in advance. 

Boundary Review Community Meetings Start This Month

As a reminder, FCPS has started the process of reviewing school boundaries across the division. This important work will help the district better support student population growth, changes in school capacity, and evolving community needs. Community input is vital to this process. With that in mind, FCPS, in partnership with Thru Consulting, will be hosting a series of community meetings in each of FCPS’ six regions. Participants are encouraged to share their thoughts, ask questions, and learn more about the boundary review process.

Please visit FCPS’ website for meeting dates, locations, and other information. Sign up for the School Boundary Review newsletter for updates.

Multilingual Learners Day of Service

Our Voices, Our Future: A Multilingual Learners Day of Service is available to FCPS high school students as an opportunity to explore multilingualism as a strength in developing leadership and advocacy skills. The event will be held Saturday, November 16, 9-11:30 a.m., at Edison High School. José Luis Zelaya, who spoke at last year's Multilingual Learners Summit, will be a special guest.

High school students are invited to network with their peers and staff, and learn how their interests and strengths can lead to future success. College and career readiness resources will be available. Students should register in advance and bring their FCPS laptops to the workshop.   

Learn more about the event and watch videos from previous multilingual learner events.

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

  • Fall Testing Results
  • Boundary Review Community Meetings
  • Resources for Families 

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.  

Calendar Reminders
  • National Family Engagement Month:

    • November is National Family Engagement Month! This month reminds us that families are children's first and most important teachers, advocates, and nurturers.  Over 40 years of research have shown that the most effective way to increase student achievement is for families to be actively involved in their children's education. Family engagement is a shared responsibility between home, school, and the community. The importance of family engagement will be highlighted during November as we celebrate and strengthen family-school partnerships.

  • Native American Heritage Month:
    • Native American Heritage Month is a time to celebrate rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories and to acknowledge the important contributions of Native Americans. It is also a time to raise a general awareness about the unique challenges they have faced both historically and in the present, and the ways in which tribal citizens have worked to conquer these challenges. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. 
KJMS Family Liaisons

Click to edit thIf you need to contact one of our parent liaisons, Ana Maxey (Mon.- Fri.) or Jennie Choi (Tues. & Wed.), please call 703-934-2454 and leave a message with your name, your student's name and phone number. You may also contact them via email: Ana Maxey at [email protected]  or Jennie Choi at [email protected]

Family Resource Center

The Family Resource Center (PRC) offers free workshops (webinars), consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities.

Sign up for the FRC newsletter or visit their webinar webpage to view the descriptions of each webinar listed below.

In November, the Family Resource Center (FRC) will host webinars for families on:

Moving on to Life in the Community Resource Fair

This event is for students with developmental and intellectual disabilities who will need continued support after they leave FCPS. Families will learn about supported employment options, day support programs, recreation/leisure activities, residential living options, travel training supports, advocacy, and funding.

The Moving on to Life in the Community resource fair will take place Wednesday, November 13, 6:30-8:30 p.m., in the cafeteria at Fairfax High School. Interpretation will be provided using Microsoft Translator on supported devices. Staff will be available to help participants as needed.

✨ Fostering trusting partnerships with families is included in Pillar B of the FCPS Strategic Plan: Vibrant Home, School, and Community Partnerships.

  FCPS Cares

Do you want to celebrate a Katherine Johnson employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way, or goes beyond what is expected? If so, then click here to share with everyone.

Stay in Touch with Us

Parents/caregivers who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese may call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS. 

3801 Jermantown Road Fairfax, VA 22030 | Main Office: 703-934-2400
Attendance: 703-934-2424 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

KJMS After-School Updates

Johnson MS News1 month 2 weeks ago

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In this Issue

  • KJMS Basketball
  • KJMS Quiz Bowl
  • FCPS MS Cross Country Championship
  • 1st Quarter AS Attendance Celebration
  • KJMS Futsal Team Tryouts
  • KJMS After-School Clubs-by-Day
  • KJMS After-School Google Calendar
KJMS Basketball

KJMS Basketball finished the season undefeated by beating Liberty MS this past week!

In the girls game, the Lady Eagles faced their toughest competition of the season and grinded out a 27-23 victory against the Lions.

In the boys game, the Eagles continued their dominance against a scrappy Liberty Team, winning 31-26.

With the wins against Liberty, KJMS finished the season undefeated and are the first Western Fairfax Basketball League Champions!

Congratulations to the players and coaches for all their hard work this season.

KJMS Quiz Bowl

The KJMS Quiz Bowl Team won the Washington DC History Bowl on Saturday, October 26th!

The competition took place at Georgetown Day School and with this result, the team qualifies for the Middle School National History Bowl National Championships.

Congratulations to all that participated!

FCPS MS Cross Country Championship

The KJMS Cross Country Season ended on Saturday, October 26th as the top runners from the KJMS Cross Country Team competed in the 1st FCPS Middle School XC Championship this past Saturday.

Many of our athletes recorded personal bests for the season and Bryce Kelsey took 3rd place in the Boys Exhibition Race!

This past season, KJMS had over 65 runners participate in the XC program
Congratulations to all who ran this season and hope to see everyone for Track & Field in the Spring!

https://results.windsorrunning.com/meets/41258/events

1st Quarter AS Attendance Celebration

On Wednesday, November 13th, we will celebrate a successful 1st Quarter of After-School! The celebration will take place from 2:15-3:00pm in the cafeteria. 

We will be serving Chik-Fil-A sandwiches and a soda to any student who had 16+ After-School sign-in days during the 1st Quarter.  There will also be prizes and raffles that all students will have a chance at winning!

Have your student check the After-School Schoology Course to see if they had 16 or more after-school sign-in days during the 1st Quarter.

KJMS Futsal Team Tryouts

KJMS Futsal will have 1 Boys Team and  1 Girls Team to compete in the Western Fairfax Middle School Futsal League this Winter.

Tryouts - Will take place in the KJMS Gym from 2:30-4:30. 

Students should signup for 2 tryout dates:

Nov. 19, 22, 26

Dec. 3, 6, 10

On December 13th, selected players will be invited to a final tryout (Callback Tryout)

Practices - Will take place in the KJMS Gym from 2:30-4:30. 

Tuesday/Friday Practices Begin 12/17

Please note, there are no late buses on Tuesdays.

Games - Will take place on Thursday evenings - locations subject to change

January 9 - Rocky Run @KJMS

January 16 - Franklin @KJMS

January 23 - Hughes @KJMS

January 30 - KJMS @Liberty

February 6 - KJMS @Herndon 

Signup will go live on Wednesday, November 6th at 3pm

KJMS After-School Clubs-by-Day

 

Take a look at the KJMS Fall/Winter Clubs-by-Day Calendar! 

Click on the links for descriptions and signup information.  This document will be updated as more clubs are added.

KJMS After-School Google Calendar

 

The KJMS After-School Google Calendar is a live calendar of after-school program dates for the Fall/Winter.  View club schedules, cancellation dates and upcoming programming.

Stay in Touch with Us

Parents who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese can call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS and to receive support if they are having difficulty communicating with their children's schools due to a language barrier.

3801 Jermantown Road Fairfax, VA 22030 | Main Office: 703-934-2400
Attendance: 703-934-2424 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

Katherine Johnson MS Outstanding Employee Awards - November 1, 2024

Johnson MS News1 month 2 weeks ago

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English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Nominations are now open for the Outstanding Employee Awards! We need your help in letting us know about your child's favorite teacher/staff member.  Please consider nominating them. The deadline to submit a nomination is close of business Friday, November 8, 2024.

To submit a nomination for a KJMS Outstanding Employee in one of the categories below, please complete the nomination through the Google form links below. You may nominate one employee at our school or multiple employees (one individual may only nominate one employee per category).

All that is required for a preliminary nomination is a paragraph or two about how this employee demonstrates exceptional work in the criteria for that category. The Google form has more information regarding the criteria for each of these awards and eligibility requirements.

Outstanding Teacher

Outstanding New Teacher

Outstanding Professional Employee

Outstanding Operational Employee 

Outstanding Leader

If you have any questions, please contact Friday Oeur via email at [email protected].

Thank you.

3801 Jermantown Road Fairfax, VA 22030 | Main Office: 703-934-2400
Attendance: 703-934-2424 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

Katherine Johnson MS Weekly News - October 31, 2024

Johnson MS News1 month 2 weeks ago

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in this issue: ☀️ Daylight Saving Time Ends (Fall Back)

Daylight savings time ends Sunday, November 3, at 2 a.m. 

Don’t forget to move your clocks back one hour! 

KJMS Upcoming Events
  • November 1 - Holiday - All Schools & Offices Closed
  • November 3 - End of Daylight Saving Time
  • November 4  - School Planning /Teacher Workday - No School
  • November 5 - Election Day & Teacher Work Day for Staff - No School
  • November 11 - Veterans Day - No School
  • November 12 - Career Day
  • November 14-15 - World Language Credit Exam
  • November 15 -16 - Fall Theatre Play- Dorothy in Wonderland - Ticket purchase
    • Friday @ 7:00 PM
    • Saturday@ 2:00 PM
  • November 27- 29 - Thanksgiving Break (no early release on 11/26)
Principal Message

Good afternoon, KJMS Community,

There are a number of team accomplishments to celebrate this week:

  • Our History Quiz Bowl team won first place at the Georgetown Day IAC History Bowl last weekend, congrats to our students for a job well-done!
  • Our girls and boys cross country teams completed their season with a strong showing at the FCPS Middle School Cross Country Championship Meet this past Saturday at Liberty Middle School! We are so proud of their hard work and can't wait to see their progress in the Spring Track season.  
  • Our girls and boys basketball teams finished their seasons undefeated with wins over Liberty MS last night.  Great job by our players and coaches!  

A reminder parents or legal guardians must provide a valid, government-issued photo identification card to the office staff when signing their child out.  Students will return to school on Wednesday, November 6th, which is an even period day.  

I hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable Halloween!

Enjoy the weekend, 

Chris Smith

Principal - Katherine Johnson MS

KJMS Celebrates Its Veterans

If you have served, or if anyone in your family has served in any of the Military Branches, we would like to celebrate you during the month of November. Please send us a picture, listing name, family relation (i.e., mother of…, father of …), and Branch of Service. We will display those pictures in our Purple Star designated area in the Eagles Landing location.

Please submit your pictures to Maria Marris @ [email protected] , Andrea Holmes @ [email protected] , or drop them off at the main office.

Thank you,

Purple Star Committee at KJMS

Punctuality Matters: The Impact of Chronic Absenteeism

Currently, KJMS has 134 students who are considered chronically absent.  That is 11.4% of the population of the school. Students who have 18 missed days for the entire year are considered chronically absent and are more likely to show signs of learning loss and social hardships with their peer groups.

We understand that there are circumstances why your child might need to stay home. Please know that if a child has a fever, has vomited or has had diarrhea in the last 24 hours, or is showing signs of serious illness that needs to be seen by a medical professional, they need to stay home until they are symptom free for 24 hours. All other medical issues like a stomachache, headache, or seasonal allergies are not a reason to keep your child home. We have adults in the building that can assist your child with these issues and get them back to class for learning.

We want to emphasize the importance of regular school attendance for your child's academic success and future prospects. Chronic absenteeism, even for seemingly small reasons, can have a significant negative impact on a student's education.

Did you know:

  • Missed days add up: Even a few days of missed school per month can lead to significant learning gaps.
  • Habitual tardiness is harmful: Arriving late disrupts the learning environment and can make it difficult for students to stay focused.
  • Absenteeism affects grades: Students who miss school frequently are more likely to have lower grades and struggle with coursework.

 Let's work together to ensure your child is in class every day. Please help them develop a consistent routine that allows for plenty of time to rest, get ready, and arrive at school on time.  Getting a decent night’s sleep, is critical for our students.  You can help them by turning off electronics at least an hour before bedtime. If your child is facing challenges that are preventing them from attending school regularly, please don't hesitate to reach out to your child's teacher or school counselor.

2024 WIDA Alternate ACCESS scores

2024 WIDA Alternate ACCESS scores are now available. Families can access score reports through SIS ParentVUE. If you do not have a ParentVUE account, your child’s score report will be provided by your school.

Lightspeed Parent Report on Child’s Device Activity

FCPS has tools to help parents know more about their child’s activity on any FCPS device. These tools are provided at no cost to families by Lightspeed, the school division’s internet content filtering service.

Parents may sign up for a weekly Parent Report, which will provide a list of the top sites your child visited. The report also offers parents the ability to sign up for free access to the Internet Use Parent Portal. Through the portal, parents may pause their child’s access to the internet on their FCPS device during non-school hours.

Learn more about Lightspeed Parent Reports.

KJMS PTA - Sign Up Today KJMS Health Room Request

KJMS Health Room is having a Clothes Drive

November 6 - December 6, 2024

What is needed the most are new and unopened packages of socks and undergarments.

For boys & girls ages 12-14 years old

***Donation Box will be outside of room 001A (HEALTH ROOM- NEAR MAIN OFFICE)

Thank you in advance for your time and donation.

Donations will go to families of KJMS😊

KJMS Theater Event Arbor Day Poetry

Below are the amazing poetry submission for the Arbor Day Contest from the KJMS students. 

Poetry submission for the Arbor Day Contest

Arbor Day event was a great success on 10/26. We planted 14 native trees in Kutner Park playground area along with poetry recitals from all 4 city schools.

Arbor Day - Kutner Park/Poetry Recitals

Multilingual Learners’ Summit

Dr. José Luis Zelaya, keynote speaker at the Multilingual Learners’ Summit this past summer, will be returning as the featured guest for this student workshop.  Dr. Zelaya will engage and empower students with the strengths of multilingualism, as students explore leadership skills to plan for future success.  Reflective service learning practices allow students to impact their communities through advocacy, engagement, and empowerment. 

All FCPS secondary students who attend will earn service learning credit for participating.  Students planning to attend should register and bring their FCPS laptop to the event.  Light refreshments and family resources will be available for parents/caregivers during the student workshop.

Sensory Friendly Family Morning at Mount Vernon

Sensory Friendly Family Morning on

Saturday, Nov. 9, 8-9 a.m. at

Mount Vernon.

Families with children of all ages on the autism spectrum are invited to join George Washington’s Mount Vernon for a sensory-friendly morning and tour. You will be able to tour the mansion at your own pace and explore the historic area. Visit their discovery station for hands-on lessons about archaeology and talk to Mount Vernon archaeologists. Admission is discounted for this special program.

Below is the link to get tickets and register.

Sensory-Friendly Family Morning | George Washington's Mount Vernon “

FCPS News
  • In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:
  • Calendar Reminders
  • Resources for Families 
  • Complete Impact Aid Survey

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.  

Calendar Reminders Quarter End/Early Release, Diwali/Día de los Muertos and All Saints Day, Student Holidays

Thursday, October 31, is the last day of the first quarter and a two-hour early release for students.

Friday, November 1, is a holiday for Diwali, Día de los Muertos, and All Saints Day. All schools and offices will be closed.

Schools will be closed for students on Monday, November 4, for a school planning day, and Tuesday, November 5 (Election Day), for a teacher workday.

See the complete school year calendar.

KJMS Family Liaisons

Click to edit thIf you need to contact one of our parent liaisons, Ana Maxey (Mon.- Fri.) or Jennie Choi (Tues. & Wed.), please call 703-934-2454 and leave a message with your name, your student's name and phone number. You may also contact them via email: Ana Maxey at [email protected]  or Jennie Choi at [email protected]

Family Resource Center

The Family Resource Center (PRC) offers free workshops (webinars), consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities.

Sign up for the FRC newsletter or visit their webinar webpage to view the descriptions of each webinar listed below.

In November, the Family Resource Center (FRC) will host webinars for families on:

Moving on to Life in the Community Resource Fair

This event is for students with developmental and intellectual disabilities who will need continued support after they leave FCPS. Families will learn about supported employment options, day support programs, recreation/leisure activities, residential living options, travel training supports, advocacy, and funding.

The Moving on to Life in the Community resource fair will take place Wednesday, November 13, 6:30-8:30 p.m., in the cafeteria at Fairfax High School. Interpretation will be provided using Microsoft Translator on supported devices. Staff will be available to help participants as needed.

✨ Fostering trusting partnerships with families is included in Pillar B of the FCPS Strategic Plan: Vibrant Home, School, and Community Partnerships.

  FCPS Cares

Do you want to celebrate a Katherine Johnson employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way, or goes beyond what is expected? If so, then click here to share with everyone.

Stay in Touch with Us

Parents/caregivers who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese may call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS. 

3801 Jermantown Road Fairfax, VA 22030 | Main Office: 703-934-2400
Attendance: 703-934-2424 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

Katherine Johnson MS Weekly News - October 25, 2024

Johnson MS News1 month 3 weeks ago

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in this issue: KJMS Calendar Events Important Upcoming Events
  • October 21 - 31 - MAP-Math Diagnostic Test
  • October 22 & 28 - SOS Screener - Bell Schedule
  • October 25 - 30 -  7th Grade - MWEE Field Trips
  • October 29 - Pyramid Concert - 7:00 PM - Fairfax HS
  • October 31 - Last Day of the First Quarter -  Early Release - 12:15 PM
    • Grab and Go Lunch
  • November 1 - Holiday - All Schools & Offices Closed
  • November 3 - End of Daylight Saving Time
  • November 4  - School Planning /Teacher Workday - No School
  • November 5 - Election Day & Teacher Work Day for Staff - No School
  • November 7 - ESOL Family Potluck - 6:00 PM-8:00 PM - Cafeteria
  • November 11 - Veterans Day - No School
  • November 12 - Career Day
  • November 14-15 - World Language Credit Exam
  • November 27- 29 - Thanksgiving Break (no early release on 11/26)
Principal's Message

Dear KJMS Families,

Our orchestra students had their first concert of the year this past week. It was fun to see the students embrace the Halloween spirit, play creepy music and dress up - a sea of minions were directed by Gru (Mrs. Sengstack).  Our chorus students will have their first performance next Tuesday (10/29) at the Fairfax Pyramid Chorus Concert at Fairfax HS.  

We have a spirit week (see flier below) planned next week and students may dress up for Halloween on Thursday (10/31).   Students are not to bring any sort of imitation weapon as part of their costume or wear any costume that fully covers their face. Students need to make sure that their costumes are school appropriate and that they don't violate the FCPS Dress Code.  

As we reflect on the first quarter of the school year, please consider taking a few minutes to recognize one or more Katherine Johnson MS employees that have made a positive impact in your student’s life. The FCPS Outstanding Employee Awards allow students and their families to nominate staff members in the Outstanding Teacher, Outstanding New Teacher, Outstanding Principal, Outstanding Leader, Outstanding Professional, and Outstanding Operational Employee categories. Nominations are due by Friday, November 8, 2024.

City of Fairfax residents - Learn about the school bond referendum on the November 5 ballot. Go to www.CityofFairfaxSchools for more information or submit a question.

Enjoy the weekend, 

Chris Smith

Principal - Katherine Johnson MS 

FCPS Cares program to recognize any of our staff members.

 

Return Your Federal Impact Aid Survey

FCPS is asking all families to fill out a Federal Impact Aid Survey. The form is available online in SIS ParentVUE. If you have not already filled out the form online, we will provide paper forms in November. Please be sure to return them by Friday, November 17. 

Completing this form for each school-aged child in every household is important, because information from this survey resulted in more than $4 million in funding last year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

Please watch this video and visit the Federal Impact Aid Survey page for more information.  

Need to Register for ParentVUE? 

Learn how to activate your SIS ParentVUE account, so you can easily submit your survey. 

Technical support for using ParentVUE or completing the survey online is available by submitting a Parent Support Request ticket. Select SISParent in the Application dropdown menu and type Federal Impact Aid Survey under Issue Description. Or, call the Parent Technology Help Desk at 833-921-3277 (833-921-FCPS).

SGA Spirit Week- 10/28-10/31

Monday: Sports Day

Tuesday:  Twin Day

Wednesday: 90's Day

Thursday:  Teacher Student Swap Day or

Wear a School Appropriate Costume

KJMS Partnering with Food For Neighbors

Hunger is an unwelcome guest this holiday season.

For many families in our school community struggling financially, providing daily meals is difficult and a special holiday meal can become a source of worry and stress. Help a local family know the joy of gathering together for a holiday meal. We’re partnering with Food For Neighbors to provide $50 grocery store gift cards to our most vulnerable families. Visit the Food For Neighbors’ website to learn how you can help. Thank you for your generosity.

 Learn more here: www.foodforneighbors.org/home/holiday-meals/.

Attendance Matter

Punctuality Matters: The Impact of Chronic Absenteeism

Currently, KJMS has 115 students who are considered chronically absent.  That is 9.8% of the population of the school. Students who have 18 missed days for the entire year are considered chronically absent and are more likely to show signs of learning loss and social hardships with their peer groups.

We understand that there are circumstances why your child might need to stay home. Please know that if a child has a fever, has vomited or has had diarrhea in the last 24 hours, or is showing signs of serious illness that needs to be seen by a medical professional, they need to stay home until they are symptom free for 24 hours. All other medical issues like a stomachache, headache, or seasonal allergies are not a reason to keep your child home. We have adults in the building that can assist your child with these issues and get them back to class for learning.

We want to emphasize the importance of regular school attendance for your child's academic success and future prospects. Chronic absenteeism, even for seemingly small reasons, can have a significant negative impact on a student's education.

Did you know:

  • Missed days add up: Even a few days of missed school per month can lead to significant learning gaps.
  • Habitual tardiness is harmful: Arriving late disrupts the learning environment and can make it difficult for students to stay focused.
  • Absenteeism affects grades: Students who miss school frequently are more likely to have lower grades and struggle with coursework.

 Let's work together to ensure your child is in class every day. Please help them develop a consistent routine that allows for plenty of time to rest, get ready, and arrive at school on time.  Getting a decent night’s sleep, is critical for our students.  You can help them by turning off electronics at least an hour before bedtime. If your child is facing challenges that are preventing them from attending school regularly, please don't hesitate to reach out to your child's teacher or school counselor.

TJ Applications

Thomas Jefferson Freshman Admissions application will open Monday, October 21 2024, at 4pm and close on Friday, November 15, 2024, at 4:00pm.

The last day to start a NEW APPLICATION is on Wednesday, November 13, 2024 by 4:00pm. 

Students with a keen interest in STEM and have a high aptitude in math and science may consider applying.

To learn more about the application process to Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology and the eligibility requirements please visit the TJHSST registration page .

If there are any further questions please reach out to Mrs. Williamson, School Counselor and Katherine Johnson TJHSST staff Liaison.

Nominations are now open for the Outstanding Employee Awards!

To submit a nomination for a KJMS Outstanding Employee in one of the categories below, please complete the nomination through the Google form links below. You may nominate one employee at our school or multiple employees (one individual may only nominate one employee per category).

All that is required for a preliminary nomination is a paragraph or two about how this employee demonstrates exceptional work in the criteria for that category. The Google form has more information regarding the criteria for each of these awards and eligibility requirements.

Outstanding Teacher

Outstanding New Teacher

Outstanding Professional Employee

Outstanding Operational Employee 

Outstanding Leader

The deadline to submit a nomination is close of business Friday, November 8, 2024.

If you have any questions, please contact Friday Oeur via email at [email protected].

Thank you.

Fall Immunization Clinic at KJMS

Katherine Johnson Middle School (KJMS) will host a School Site Immunization Clinic on November 15, 2024, in collaboration with the Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD). Only students enrolled at KJMS may participate in the clinic.

The following immunizations will be offered during school hours at the School Immunization Clinic: 

  • Meningococcal Conjugate (MenACWY) Vaccine
  • Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine
  • Tetanus, Diphtheria, & Pertussis (Tdap) Vaccine

Find additional information for each vaccine. 

If you would like your child to receive immunizations as part of the School Site Immunization Clinic, you must first provide: 

  • Permission via a signed Adolescent Vaccine Clinic Consent Form, which can be found in the Middle and High School Clinics section on this webpage.
  • A copy of their immunization records (if available).
  • A copy of the front and back of their insurance card (if applicable). Insurance is not required. 

Please bring your signed consent form to our front office by October 31 in order for your child to participate. If your child is insured, please submit a copy of the front and back of your child’s insurance to our front office as well. You may contact our school’s public health nurse, Ms.Gant at [email protected] with any immunization questions.  

Fairfax City News FX City School Bond Referendum- 11/5/24

City of Fairfax residents! Learn about the school bond referendum on the November 5 ballot. Go to www.CityofFairfaxSchools for more information or submit a question.

Fairfax City Arbor Day Celebration

Connect with nature and community as we mark Fairfax City's 37th year as a Tree City USA with a special tree planting at Kutner Park.

When:  Saturday, October 26, 2024

Time: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Where:  Kutner Park (3901 Jermantown Road)

Earn service hours or stormwater utility credit when you volunteer.

 

Event contact: (703) 223-5054 or via email at [email protected]

Fairfax Hight School News FHS Theatre Fall Drama Camp

 When:  Tuesday, November 5th

Time:  9:00 AM - 3:30 PM

Where: Fairfax High School (FHS)

Who:  For any child in 1st to 8th grade

Cost:  $65  per child and $45 for FCPS Employees

Click to view flier:  Fall Drama Flier

FHS- Robotics Club- Virtual Java classes

Fairfax High School students will be offering a virtual workshop to middle school students in Basic Java and Advanced Java coding. Five (5) Classes.

When:  Every Monday and Saturday

Date:  November 4 - November 18

Time:  6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

FCPS News For All FCPS Students Safeway Immunization Clinics 

Safeway Immunization Clinics for All FCPS Students 

Safeway Pharmacy will host immunization clinics for any FCPS student age 18 or younger at Frost Middle School on

Monday, October 28 and Tuesday, October 29

3:00 PM to 7:00 PM (both days)

Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are highly encouraged to avoid wait times. A parent or guardian must accompany walk-in students age 18 or younger to provide consent. Learn more about immunization resources and registering in other languages for the Safeway clinic. 

Students age 19 and older may access free immunizations at their middle/high school immunization clinic, the Fairfax County Health Department or through other community resources.

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

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid invites you to share your thoughts and ask questions at the final community conversation this fall. It will be held Wednesday, October 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Herndon Middle School. Click the date to register. Childcare and language interpretation services will be provided.

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

  • Federal Impact Aid Survey
  • Tips to Keep Children Safe

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

Calendar Reminders 

See the complete school year calendar.

  • National School Principals Month
  • Disability History and Awareness Month
  • School Bus Safety Week
  • Quarter End/Early Release, Diwali/Dia de los Muertos and All Saints Day, Student Holidays
  • Family Engagement Month 
  • Native American Heritage Month
  • Daylight Saving Time
  • Election Day/TW Day
KJMS Family Liaisons

If you need to contact one of our parent liaisons, Ana Maxey (Mon.- Fri.) or Jennie Choi (Tues. & Wed.), please call 703-934-2454 and leave a message with your name, your student's name and phone number. You may also contact them via email: Ana Maxey at [email protected]  or Jennie Choi at [email protected]

Family Resource Center

The Family Resource Center (PRC) offers free workshops (webinars), consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities.

In November, the Family Resource Center (FRC) will host webinars for families on:

  • SIBSHOPS: An Exciting, In-person Workshop for Brothers and Sisters of Children with Special Needs! - Register Online

  • SIBTEEN: An Exciting, In-person Workshop for Brothers and Sisters of Children with Special Needs! - Register Online

  • 5 Ways to De-Escalate a Nuclear Meltdown & Stop the Shame Cycle: A Webinar for Families. - Register Online

  • Language Arts and Literacy Instruction for Students with Significant Cognitive Disabilities Accessing an Adapted Curriculum. Register Online

  • Executive Functioning Skills - *presented in Arabic. Register Online

  • Teen Series: Building Resilience: Helping Teens Develop Coping Skills and Emotional Intelligence. - Register Online

  • Moving on to Life in the Community Resource Fair. Register Online

  • Starting The Conversation About Drugs: A Webinar for Families. Register Online

Sign up for the FRC newsletter to learn about their latest offerings or visit their webinar webpage.

View previous workshops and webinars on YouTube

  FCPS Cares

Do you want to celebrate a Katherine Johnson employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way, or goes beyond what is expected? If so, then click here to share with everyone.

Stay in Touch with Us

Parents/caregivers who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese may call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS. 

3801 Jermantown Road Fairfax, VA 22030 | Main Office: 703-934-2400
Attendance: 703-934-2424 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

Katherine Johnson MS Weekly News - October 18, 2024

Johnson MS News2 months ago

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in this issue: KJMS Calendar Events Important Upcoming Events
  • October 21 - 31 - MAP-Math Diagnostic Test
  • October 22 & 28 - SOS Screener - Bell Schedule
  • October 23 - Orchestra Concert - 7:00 PM - KJMS Auditorium
  • October 25 - Fall Pictures Retakes/Make Ups 
  • October 25 - 30 -  7th Grade - MWEE Field Trips
  • October 29 - Pyramid Concert - 7:00 PM - Fairfax HS
  • October 31 - Last Day of the First Quarter -  Early Release - 12:15 PM
    • Grab and Go Lunch
  • November 1 - Holiday - All Schools & Offices Closed
  • November 3 - End of Daylight Saving Time
  • November 4  - School Planning /Teacher Workday - No School
  • November 5 - Election Day & Teacher Work Day for Staff - No School
  • November 11 - Veterans Day - No School
  • November 12 - Career Day
  • November 14-15 - World Language Credit Exam
  • November 27- 29 - Thanksgiving Break (no early release on 11/26)
Principal's Message

Dear KJMS Families,

As the first quarter enters the last two weeks, this is a good time to encourage your students to take advantage of the extra help our teachers offer after school to catch up on any assignments or assessments. We are hosting a virtual Parent Academy session on Thursday (10/24) at 7:00pm. Our interim Technology Specialist, Mrs. Tripathi, will present Schoology and SIS tips for parents to help their students. We will send a link Thursday morning and we will make the recording of the session available.

Congratulations to our girls and boys basketball teams who continued to display outstanding effort and sportsmanship on their way to victories last night against Hughes Middle School! Best of luck to our cross-country athletes who participate in the last regular season meet tomorrow at Liberty MS.  Start time is 8:40 a.m. for the boys and 9:05 a.m. for the girls. Come cheer on our running Eagles! 

Enjoy the weekend, 

Chris Smith

Principal - Katherine Johnson MS 

FCPS Cares program to recognize any of our staff members.

The SCA hosted a PINK OUT today to show our support and join in the fight to end Breast Cancer.  

Career Day 2024-25

We are excited to announce that this year’s Career Day will take place on November 12th from 8:15 AM to 10:40 AM, and we are looking for enthusiastic presenters to share their careers with our students! If you are interested in participating as a presenter, please complete the registration form using the link below. The deadline to register is Oct 23. Please see the FAQs and reach out to School Counselor Curtiss Barnes at [email protected] if you have questions. Your experiences and insights can have a lasting impact on our students as they explore various career paths. Thank you for your support in making this event a success. We look forward to showcasing the amazing careers within our KJMS community!

KJMS Career Day Presenter Registration 

TJ Applications

Thomas Jefferson Freshman Admissions application will open Monday, October 21, 2024, at 4pm and close on Friday, November 15, 2024, at 4:00pm.

The last day to start a NEW APPLICATION is on Wednesday, November 13, 2024 by 4:00pm. 

Students with a keen interest in STEM and have a high aptitude in math and science may consider applying.

To learn more about the application process to Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology and the eligibility requirements please visit the TJHSST registration page .

If there are any further questions please reach out to Mrs. Williamson, School Counselor and Katherine Johnson TJHSST staff Liaison.

Nominations are now open for the Outstanding Employee Awards!

To submit a nomination for a KJMS Outstanding Employee in one of the categories below, please complete the nomination through the Google form links below. You may nominate one employee at our school or multiple employees (one individual may only nominate one employee per category).

All that is required for a preliminary nomination is a paragraph or two about how this employee demonstrates exceptional work in the criteria for that category. The Google form has more information regarding the criteria for each of these awards and eligibility requirements.

Outstanding Teacher

Outstanding New Teacher

Outstanding Professional Employee

Outstanding Operational Employee 

Outstanding Leader

The deadline to submit a nomination is close of business Friday, November 8, 2024.

If you have any questions, please contact Friday Oeur via email at [email protected].

Thank you.

Fall Immunization Clinic at KJMS

Katherine Johnson Middle School (KJMS) will host a School Site Immunization Clinic on November 15, 2024, in collaboration with the Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD). Only students enrolled at KJMS may participate in the clinic.

The following immunizations will be offered during school hours at the School Immunization Clinic: 

  • Meningococcal Conjugate (MenACWY) Vaccine
  • Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine
  • Tetanus, Diphtheria, & Pertussis (Tdap) Vaccine

Find additional information for each vaccine. 

If you would like your child to receive immunizations as part of the School Site Immunization Clinic, you must first provide: 

  • Permission via a signed Adolescent Vaccine Clinic Consent Form, which can be found in the Middle and High School Clinics section on this webpage.
  • A copy of their immunization records (if available).
  • A copy of the front and back of their insurance card (if applicable). Insurance is not required. 

Please bring your signed consent form to our front office by October 31 in order for your child to participate. If your child is insured, please submit a copy of the front and back of your child’s insurance to our front office as well. You may contact our school’s public health nurse, Ms.Gant at [email protected] with any immunization questions.  

Fairfax City News Fairfax City Fall Community Cleanup

We need your help to remove litter and debris from our community!

When: Sunday, October 20, 2024

Time: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM.

Where:  Van Dyck Park - 3720 Blenheim Blvd.

  • Help beautify the community
  • Get volunteer hours
  • Potential to earn stormwater utility credits
  • All supplies provide

To learn more, and to register, visit:  Fall Community Cleanup Registration Link

Fairfax City Arbor Day Celebration

Connect with nature and community as we mark Fairfax City's 37th year as a Tree City USA with a special tree planting at Kutner Park.

When:  Saturday, October 26, 2024

Time: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Where:  Kutner Park (3901 Jermantown Road)

Earn service hours or stormwater utility credit when you volunteer.

 

Event contact: (703) 223-5054 or via email at [email protected]

Fairfax Hight School News FHS- Robotics Club- Virtual Java classes

Fairfax High School students will be offering a virtual workshop to middle school students in Basic Java and Advanced Java coding. Five (5) Classes.

When:  Every Monday and Saturday

Date:  November 4 - November 18

Time:  6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

FCPS News Health Information and Emergency Care Forms

The Health Information Form (HIF) (SS/SE-71) and the Emergency Care Information form (SS/SE-3) provide valuable information regarding student health conditions. These forms are critical in the early identification of students who may need healthcare support in the educational environment. Along with the development of Healthcare Plans (HCP) and Action Plans, the Public Health Nurses (PHNs) utilize the information contained in the HIF to develop teaching strategies for FCPS staff in order to meet the requirements of Regulation 2104 Health Services-School Health-Related Needs.

These forms are required for all students. Enrolling parents/guardians who have a SIS ParentVUE account may submit them electronically by using the Online Verification/Update packet. 

For families without SIS ParentVue accounts, forms can be found on the General Registration Forms page. 

For All FCPS Students Safeway Immunization Clinics 

Safeway Immunization Clinics for All FCPS Students 

Safeway Pharmacy will host immunization clinics for any FCPS student age 18 or younger at Frost Middle School on

Monday, October 28 and Tuesday, October 29

3:00 PM to 7:00 PM (both days)

Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are highly encouraged to avoid wait times. A parent or guardian must accompany walk-in students age 18 or younger to provide consent. Learn more about immunization resources and registering in other languages for the Safeway clinic. 

Students age 19 and older may access free immunizations at their middle/high school immunization clinic, the Fairfax County Health Department or through other community resources.

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

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid will host a series of Community Conversations this fall. She invites you to share your thoughts and ask questions. Click the dates below to register for any of the following conversations:

Events take place from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Childcare and language interpretation services will be provided.

FCPS News
  • In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:
  • FCPS Family Orientation
  • Community Conversations
  • Immunization Clinics

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.  

Calendar Reminders 

See the complete school year calendar.

  • National School Principals Month
  • Disability History and Awareness Month
  • National School Bus Safety Week
    • National School Bus Safety Week is an active and evolving public education program and an excellent way for parents, students, teachers, motorists, school bus operators, school administrators, and other interested parties - to join forces and address the importance of school bus safety.
  • Quarter End/Early Release, Diwali/Dia de los Muertos and All Saints Day, Student Holidays
KJMS Family Liaisons

If you need to contact one of our parent liaisons, Ana Maxey (Mon.- Fri.) or Jennie Choi (Tues. & Wed.), please call 703-934-2454 and leave a message with your name, your student's name and phone number. You may also contact them via email: Ana Maxey at [email protected]  or Jennie Choi at [email protected]

Family Resource Center

The Family Resource Center (PRC) offers free workshops (webinars), consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities.

In November, the Family Resource Center (FRC) will host webinars for families on:

  • SIBSHOPS: An Exciting, In-person Workshop for Brothers and Sisters of Children with Special Needs! - Register Online

  • SIBTEEN: An Exciting, In-person Workshop for Brothers and Sisters of Children with Special Needs! - Register Online

  • 5 Ways to De-Escalate a Nuclear Meltdown & Stop the Shame Cycle: A Webinar for Families. - Register Online

  • Language Arts and Literacy Instruction for Students with Significant Cognitive Disabilities Accessing an Adapted Curriculum. Register Online

  • Executive Functioning Skills - *presented in Arabic. Register Online

  • Teen Series: Building Resilience: Helping Teens Develop Coping Skills and Emotional Intelligence. - Register Online

  • Moving on to Life in the Community Resource Fair. Register Online

  • Starting The Conversation About Drugs: A Webinar for Families. Register Online

Sign up for the FRC newsletter to learn about their latest offerings or visit their webinar webpage.

View previous workshops and webinars on YouTube

  FCPS Cares

Do you want to celebrate a Katherine Johnson employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way, or goes beyond what is expected? If so, then click here to share with everyone.

Stay in Touch with Us

Parents/caregivers who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese may call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS. 

3801 Jermantown Road Fairfax, VA 22030 | Main Office: 703-934-2400
Attendance: 703-934-2424 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

Katherine Johnson MS Weekly News - October 11, 2024

Johnson MS News2 months 1 week ago

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English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

in this issue: KJMS Calendar Events Important Upcoming Events
  • October 14 - Indigenous People’s Day - No School
  • October 23 - Orchestra Concert - 7:00 PM - KJMS Auditorium
  • October 25 - Fall Pictures Retakes/Make Ups 
  • October 29 - Pyramid Concert - 7:00 PM - Fairfax HS
  • October 31 - Last Day of the First Quarter -  Early Release - 12:15 PM
  • November 1 - Holiday - All Schools & Offices Closed
  • November 4  - School Planning /Teacher Workday - No School
  • November 5 - Election Day & Teacher Work Day for Staff - No School
  • November 11 - Veterans Day - No School
  • November 12 - Career Day
  • November 27- 29 - Thanksgiving Break (no early release on 11/26)
Principal's Message

Dear KJMS Families,

We had a busy week at KJMS!  Our engineering students did an excellent job launching their rockets and most of them returned safely to the ground.  We had a couple authors, Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin (see picture below), visit this week.  It was great for students to hear how research and collaboration are used on a daily basis to create a book.    

We have posted our school improvement and innovation plan (SIIP) on our website.  Feel free to contact me if you have any questions. 

With the fall weather arriving, please remember that we take a daily 15-minute outdoor recess. Be sure your student is dressed appropriately for the changing temperatures.

A reminder that students do not have school Monday in recognition of Indigenous People’s Day.  

Enjoy the weekend, 

Chris Smith

Principal - Katherine Johnson MS 

Attendance News

Punctuality Matters: The Impact of Chronic Absenteeism

Currently, KJMS has 124 students who are considered chronically absent.  That is 10.6% of the population of the school. Students who have 18 missed days for the entire year are considered chronically absent and are more likely to show signs of learning loss and social hardships with their peer groups.

We understand that there are circumstances why your child might need to stay home. Please know that if a child has a fever, has vomited or has had diarrhea in the last 24 hours, or is showing signs of serious illness that needs to be seen by a medical professional, they need to stay home until the are symptom free for 24 hours. All other medical issues like a stomachache, head ache, or seasonal allergies are not a reason to keep your child home. We have adults in the building that can assist your child with these issues and get them back to class for learning.

We want to emphasize the importance of regular school attendance for your child's academic success and future prospects. Chronic absenteeism, even for seemingly small reasons, can have a significant negative impact on a student's education.

Did you know:

  • Missed days add up: Even a few days of missed school per month can lead to significant learning gaps.
  • Habitual tardiness is harmful: Arriving late disrupts the learning environment and can make it difficult for students to stay focused.
  • Absenteeism affects grades: Students who miss school frequently are more likely to have lower grades and struggle with coursework.

 Let's work together to ensure your child is in class every day. Please help them develop a consistent routine that allows for plenty of time to rest, get ready, and arrive at school on time.  Getting a decent night’s sleep, is critical for our students.  You can help them by turning off electronics at least an hour before bedtime. If your child is facing challenges that are preventing them from attending school regularly, please don't hesitate to reach out to your child's teacher or school counselor.

Career Day 2024-25

We are excited to announce that this year’s Career Day will take place on November 12th from 8:15 AM to 10:40 AM, and we are looking for enthusiastic presenters to share their careers with our students! If you are interested in participating as a presenter, please complete the registration form using the link below. The deadline to register is Oct 23. Please see the FAQs and reach out to School Counselor Curtiss Barnes at [email protected] if you have questions. Your experiences and insights can have a lasting impact on our students as they explore various career paths. Thank you for your support in making this event a success. We look forward to showcasing the amazing careers within our KJMS community!

KJMS Career Day Presenter Registration 

Community Engagement Night

Join the City of Fairfax on Tuesday, October 15 at 6:30 p.m. at Daniels Run ES for an informational night about the school bond referendum on the November ballot. City residents can ask questions and learn more about the school facility needs.

 

For more information, please go to the City of Fairfax Schools website https://www.cityoffairfaxschools.org/.

 

KJMS Library News

 

Our library had a wonderful Author Visit with Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin this week! They left behind several autographed copies of their new historical fiction adventure, The Bletchley Riddle. These books are available for $22 while supplies last. Please use this Google form to order your copy.

Speaking of buying books, the Scholastic Book Fair is coming back to KJMS! Mark your calendars for December 2-6. It’s the perfect time to shop for holiday presents!

Fall Immunization Clinic at KJMS

Katherine Johnson Middle School (KJMS) will host a School Site Immunization Clinic on November 15, 2024, in collaboration with the Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD). Only students enrolled at KJMS may participate in the clinic.

The following immunizations will be offered during school hours at the School Immunization Clinic: 

  • Meningococcal Conjugate (MenACWY) Vaccine
  • Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine
  • Tetanus, Diphtheria, & Pertussis (Tdap) Vaccine

Find additional information for each vaccine. 

If you would like your child to receive immunizations as part of the School Site Immunization Clinic, you must first provide: 

  • Permission via a signed Adolescent Vaccine Clinic Consent Form, which can be found in the Middle and High School Clinics section on this webpage.
  • A copy of their immunization records (if available).
  • A copy of the front and back of their insurance card (if applicable). Insurance is not required. 

Please bring your signed consent form to our front office by October 31 in order for your child to participate. If your child is insured, please submit a copy of the front and back of your child’s insurance to our front office as well. You may contact our school’s public health nurse, Ms.Gant at [email protected] with any immunization questions.  

For All FCPS Students Safeway Immunization Clinics 

Safeway Pharmacy will be providing immunizations at Frost Middle School for all FCPS students at no cost on: 

  • Saturday, October 12, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
  • Monday, October 28, 3-7 p.m.

Transportation options are available.

Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are highly encouraged to avoid wait times. A parent or guardian must accompany walk-in students under the age of 19 to provide consent. Learn more about immunization resources and registering in other languages for the Safeway clinic.

Please check the Immunization Resources page for clinic locations, dates, and how to submit a consent form.

KJMS Picture Make-Ups/Retake Information

Make-ups and retakes are scheduled for Friday, 10/25.  

The following students are eligible for retakes:

  • Any student or staff member who was absent for the original sessions (9/5 & 9/6) 
  • Any new/transfer students or staff who joined after the original sessions. as of 9/9.
  • Students who have purchased pictures and have the originals to return to the photographers on retake day.

Absentee and Re-take Picture Day Form

If neither of the above applies to your student, please disregard this email.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Emily Gardiner at [email protected].

Thank you. 

National School Lunch Week 2024

National School Lunch Week (NSLW) — October 14 to October 18, 2024 — celebrates the federal National School Lunch Program (NSLP). This program provides millions of children a nutritious meal each school day. 

President John F. Kennedy created National School Lunch Week in 1962 to promote the importance of a healthy school lunch in a student’s life and the impact it has made inside and outside of the classroom. 

New Printable Menus

Want to know what’s for breakfast or lunch? Nutrition Services now has printable menus available.

X Marks the Tray 

Students can participate in X Marks the Tray on Wednesday, October 16. Lucky students at each school will find a sticker on a hot entree container. They can redeem it for a whole grain sweet treat with their meal!

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

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid will host a series of Community Conversations this fall. She invites you to share your thoughts and ask questions. Click the dates below to register for any of the following conversations:

Events take place from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Childcare and language interpretation services will be provided.

The 2023-30 Strategic Plan — Goal 5: Leading for Tomorrow’s Innovation

FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan sets five main goals to create positive change in the division. These goals show where we should focus our attention and will help us align our efforts. 

Our final goal is Leading for Tomorrow’s Innovation. We are preparing our students for a future that has yet to be imagined. We must give them the skills they will need to succeed. Watch this video to see students exploring and preparing for careers through Career and Technical Experience programs. See how Goal 5 is being put into practice.

Other Ways to Support Your Child’s Learning Needs

You are important in your child’s education. The Family Academy keeps a list of classes, webinars, workshops, and programs offered by Fairfax County Public Schools to help you support your child's needs and learning at home. Browse Family Academy offerings. 

✨ Helping students read on level by the end of third grade is part of the FCPS Strategic Plan Goal 3: Academic Growth and Excellence. One of the strategic plan pillars is vibrant home and school partnerships.

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

  • Learn About Lexia for Literacy
  • Schools Win Exemplar Awards
  • Upcoming Community Conversations

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.  

Calendar Reminders 

See the complete school year calendar.

  • Hispanic Heritage Month
  • National School Principals Month
  • Disability History and Awareness Month
    • In Virginia during October, Disability History and Awareness activities provide an opportunity to create greater public awareness for individuals with disabilities, with the goal of full inclusion in our community. 
  • National School Lunch Week
  • Yom Kippur

    • Friday, October 11, will be an evening-only observance day for Yom Kippur, the holiest day in Judaism. There is school that day, but important events will not occur after school.

  • Indigenous Peoples Day
    • Monday, October 14, is a student holiday and staff development day for Indigenous Peoples' Day.
KJMS Family Liaisons

If you need to contact one of our parent liaisons, Ana Maxey (Mon.- Fri.) or Jennie Choi (Tues. & Wed.), please call 703-934-2454 and leave a message with your name, your student's name and phone number. You may also contact them via email: Ana Maxey at [email protected]  or Jennie Choi at [email protected]

Family Resource Center

The Family Resource Center (PRC) offers free workshops (webinars), consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities.

In October, the Family Resource Center (FRC) will host webinars for families on:

  • Supporting siblings of children with disabilities.
  • Helping students organize their schoolwork.
  • Benchmark Advance, the new K-6 language arts curriculum.
  • Ways to engage with your children in mathematics.
  • Transitions from school to work and adult life for students with disabilities. 

Sign up for the FRC newsletter to learn about their latest offerings or visit their webinar webpage.

  FCPS Cares

Do you want to celebrate a Katherine Johnson employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way, or goes beyond what is expected? If so, then click here to share with everyone.

Stay in Touch with Us

Parents/caregivers who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese may call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS. 

3801 Jermantown Road Fairfax, VA 22030 | Main Office: 703-934-2400
Attendance: 703-934-2424 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

KJMS After-School Updates

Johnson MS News2 months 1 week ago

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In this Issue

  • KJMS Basketball
  • Art Club 
  • Advanced Academic Club Parent Volunteer Form
  • KJMS After-School Clubs-by-Day
  • KJMS After-School Google Calendar
KJMS Basketball

KJMS Basketball continued their winning ways yesterday evening against the Franklin Falcons.  In the girls game, Tandis Jahanmir had the hot hand and was 3 for 3 from 3-point range in the first half.  In the boys game, the Falcons could not stop Kyle Parker.  Parker was repeatedly fouled on the way to the basket and led the Eagles in scoring.

The Eagles take on Langston Hughes this coming Thursday at KJMS!

Western Fairfax Basketball - Week 2 Results

KJMS vs Franklin

Girls 31-14

Boys 46-36

Hughes vs Stone

Girls 41-22

Boys 58-41

Liberty vs Rocky Run

Girls 26-22

Boys 50-31

Art Club

Art Club Session 1 - Pet Portraits will begin meeting this Thursday, October 17th.  Enrolled students will receive a Talking Points message this week as a reminder.

October 17, 24

November 7, 14, 21

December 5, 12, 19

Advanced Academic Club Parent Volunteer Form

KJMS After-School is seeking parent volunteers to help with our Academic Competition Clubs.  We are in need of both 7th and 8th grade parents to work with the following clubs:

Math Counts (Mondays, 2:30-4:30)

Science Olympiad (Thursdays, 2:30-4:30)

Quiz Bowl (Fridays, 2:30-3:30)

Interested? Please complete the KJMS Academic Competition Club Parent Volunteer Form and one of our sponsors will reach out to you.

Thank You.

KJMS After-School Clubs-by-Day

 

Take a look at the KJMS Fall/Winter Clubs-by-Day Calendar! 

Click on the links for descriptions and signup information.  This document will be updated as more clubs are added.

KJMS After-School Google Calendar

 

The KJMS After-School Google Calendar is a live calendar of after-school program dates for the Fall/Winter.  View club schedules, cancellation dates and upcoming programming.

Stay in Touch with Us

Parents who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese can call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS and to receive support if they are having difficulty communicating with their children's schools due to a language barrier.

3801 Jermantown Road Fairfax, VA 22030 | Main Office: 703-934-2400
Attendance: 703-934-2424 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

KJMS PTA News - First Meeting Tonight Reminder - October 9 2024

Johnson MS News2 months 1 week ago

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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

Please Join Us At Our First KJMS PTA Meeting of 2024-25! Tonight Wednesday, October 9th at 7:00 PM Virtual

Link to join the meeting:

https://meet.google.com/mkg-ebea-dgi

Thank you,

Garrett Osumah

KJMS PTA President

If you have any questions, please contact [email protected].

Stay in Touch with Us

Parents/caregivers who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese may call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS. View the list of phone numbers.

3801 Jermantown Road Fairfax, VA 22030 | Main Office: 703-934-2400
Attendance: 703-934-2424 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

KJMS PTA News - First Meeting Reminder - October 8, 2024

Johnson MS News2 months 1 week ago

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

Please Join Us At Our First KJMS PTA Meeting of 2024-25! Wednesday, October 9th at 7:00 PM Virtual

We would like to remind everyone about our first PTA meeting of the year, taking place on Wednesday, October 9th at 7:00 pm.  This will be a virtual meeting and we will send a link on Wednesday for the meeting.

This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow parents, share ideas, and learn more about how you can get involved in supporting our school community. Your input and participation make a significant difference!

We look forward to seeing you there and continuing to work together for the benefit of our students.

Thank you,

Garrett Osumah

KJMS PTA President

If you have any questions, please contact [email protected].

Stay in Touch with Us

Parents/caregivers who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese may call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS. View the list of phone numbers.

3801 Jermantown Road Fairfax, VA 22030 | Main Office: 703-934-2400
Attendance: 703-934-2424 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

1 hour 12 minutes ago
Katherine Johnson Middle School News and announcements
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