Mar
24
Important Message from Principal Kelley
From OES Principal Mrs. Kelley – 03/24/2020
*Only students who need a laptop should fill out the google form.
Dear Oakton Community:
Yesterday, the Governor of Virginia had to make the difficult decision to close schools for the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year. Our Oakton staff is devastated, yet understanding, of this decision. Many learning and relationship opportunities are lost for this school year, yet new ones present themselves.
As our students, families, and staff work to create a new normal for these next few months, we are waiting on guidance from FCPS on next steps. Our Superintendent is conferencing with the Governor and other Virginia Superintendents to discuss how we can implement continuity of learning that has an equity focus. We hope to begin distance learning soon.
In the meantime, as we have shared previously, FCPS has developed centralized resources to promote continuity of learning, which can be accessed via FCPS 24-7 (http://fcps.blackboard.com). These activities are ready for families/students and do not require any teacher preparation or facilitation.
Elementary resources are also available at https://www.fcps.edu/academics/continuity-learning-plan/elementary-school-continuity-learning-resources
While we are away from school please remember that FCPS is providing free breakfast and lunch to all kids who are 18 years old and younger. Here is the link to the all the Grab and Go food distribution locations as well as meal bus routes: https://www.fcps.edu/news/coronavirus-update-food-resources
Laptops
As we prepare for distance learning, we need to identify children in grades 3-5 who may need a laptop. Please know that we have a limited number of laptops, thus, we are looking for students who do not already have access to a computer, laptop, or tablet at home for learning. Additionally, FCPS is trying to provide internet access to students who do not have it currently in their home. Here are a few questions to determine if your child/family meets these requirements:
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Can your child access the internet in any way for learning right now?
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Does your child have access to a computer, laptop, or tablet they can use to access online learning resources right now?
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If a MiFi internet hotspot is available, do you give your permission and assume responsibility for the MiFi? A MiFi is a compact, wireless device that enable users to access the internet.
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If a laptop is available, do you give your permission and assume responsibility for the laptop?
**If you answered yes to these questions, please complete this google form to indicate your need. We are in the process of scheduling a laptop pick-up day at OES for those who indicated the need. Parents will need to be present with their child to pick up the laptop and sign permission forms. Other details will follow.
Questions:
We have received questions about field trip reimbursements. Mrs. Holsclaw and I will be working on reimbursing funds collected. Please be patient with us as there is a lot going on at the time. We will reach out to parents as soon as we can to explain next steps.
Student belongings at school. We are waiting on guidance from leadership to schedule times for students/parents to enter the schools and gather personal belongings. We will certainly let you know when this has been approved.
We know this unchartered territory – we are all trying to do the best we can in this difficult situation. We miss your children. We miss seeing their smiling faces, hearing their laughter, and working with them with to answer their questions, foster their ideas, and develop their curiosity. We are eager to reconnect with them as soon as possible!
Sincerely,
Christine Kelley
Mar
17
ANNOUNCEMENT REGARDING UPCOMING EVENTS: CANCELATIONS AND POSTPONEMENTS
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
ABOUT UPCOMING EVENTS
Due to the school closures and the related FCPS directives, the PTA and OES administration have taken the following steps with regard to planned PTA-sponsored activities and events:
CANCELED:
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All Before-School Enrichment Classes
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Dine-In Dining for Dollars Events
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Variety Show
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Guys Night Out
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Spring Carnival
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6th Grade Basketball Game
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6th Grade Farewell
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6th Grade Dance
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End-of-the Year Activities
We are currently exploring the options and viability of Dining for Dollars delivery events, virtual PTA meetings, and other events. We will keep you updated!
Mar
17
HELPFUL CORONAVIRUS INFORMATION/RESOURCES LINKS
UPDATED CORONAVIRUS/COVID-19 LINKS
These are just a few of the numerous sources available, but below are a few important links for your convenience:
QUICK LINKS TO STATE AND FEDERAL COVID-19 RESOURCES:
VIRGINIA
NATIONAL:
TALKING TO YOUR CHILDREN ABOUT COVID-19:
OTHER RESOURCES:
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Sign up for text message alerts: text FFXCOVID to 888777 or sign up by text/email
Mar
17
ACADEMICS/LEARNING AT HOME/ACTIVITIES RESOURCES
EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES for HOME
FCPS:
OTHER RESOURCES:
There are NUMEROUS other educational resources on our Oakton PTA Facebook page from our own Tony Gray and wonderful OES parents! Please check them out HERE!!
Mar
29
AUTISM AWARENESS WEEK AT OES – WE ARE ON!!!!! STARTS MONDAY!
Autism Awareness Week at OES
March 30-April 3
Although the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemis has interruptepd our plans to observe Autism Awareness Week at OES, we will still be proudly showing our support virtually!
THIS IS HOW!
FACEBOOK: Stay tuned to our PTA’s Facebook page! Next week, we’ll be sharing various facts about autism to help promote awareness, acceptance and understanding of our students, as well as the tens of thousands of individuals living with an autism diagnosis each year.
SPECIAL READING LIST: In addition, a special reading list has been created of books that treat many aspects of the topic of autism. It is our hope that students and families will read and reference these books to learn more about what it’s like for an individual to live with autism (or to know someone who does) and that, in turn, such knowledge will foster acceptance, empathy and compassion. CLICK HERE to view our selection of books.
SPECIAL ACTIVITY: We also have a fun art activity for students to complete: a picture of an autism awareness ribbon to be colored and decorated in any way they wish! CLICK HERE to print a copy.
WEAR BLUE FOR LIGHT IT UP BLUE DAY (APRIL 2nd): Wear a blue shirt on Thursday, April 2nd in observance of “World Autism Awareness Day.” Let’s all “Light It Up Blue” on this special day! To all of you who purchased special “Light It Up Blue” Autism Awareness t-shirts, please know that they will be distributed as soon as possible when our school re-opens. We thank you for your understanding and patience. In the meantime, grab your favorite blue shirt and let’s all Light It Up Blue on Thurday, April 2nd!
Mar
29
Events and Activities that are STILL Happening at OES!
The School Year Isn’t Over at Oakton Elementary School:
EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES COMING UP!!!
–AUTISM AWARENESS WEEK: See Autism Awareness Week Post on this Website!
–YEARBOOK: Despite the COVID-19 school closure and event cancellations, the Yearbook Staff is still working hard to collect photos of students and activities. If we can get full participation in sharing photos, we can increase our photo options, have more layout choices, and help to promote and excite people about the yearbook. Please continue to send us photos of the great things your students are accomplishing!
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To make sure our students are well represented in the yearbook, please click the link and upload them here:
https://oesmasterlinkyearbookphotos2019.shutterfly.com/#
-BOOK FAIR: Save the Date! Our awesome library staff will be hosting an ONLINE BOOK FAIR currently scheduled for April 13th-24th. More information to come!
-TEACHER SUPPORT: The PTA is currently looking into ways we can support our teachers and staff and enrich their distance learning efforts.
-STAFF & TEACHER APPRECIATION WEEK: We will still celebrate and show our appreciation to our incredible OES staff and teachers during STAW in early May. Stay tuned for information from the PTA and your room parents.
-PTA BOARD & CHAIR POSITIONS FOR SCHOOL YEAR 2020-21: The PTA will continue to plan for next year and will be looking for people interested in holding a board or chair position for next year. Look for more information to come!
–MORE: Your PTA Board is still meeting (via conference calls and other communications) to determine what we can do to support and enrich the lives of our families, staff and teachers. We will update you as we go. Ideas? Please feel free to reach out and share any ideas you have!!!
Mar
29
SPECIAL EDUCATION SPOTLIGHT – April 2020
The Special Education Spotlight- APRIL 2020
It’s All About Inclusion!
The OES PTA Special Education Committee was formed in 2012 in an effort to create an awareness of and address matters relevant to this vital part of our school’s population. With the inclusivity of ALL students and families as our primary goal, we strive to be the direct link between our school’s Special Education/IEP community, PTA, students and families and the diverse Special Education offerings of our local area.
If you are new to OES, seek additional information about Special Education and wish to establish connections with others at our school; or if you are interested in joining our committee (all are welcome!), we encourage you contact our Special Education Liaisons, Andrea Zuppas and Maren Wood at special.education@oaktonpta.net.
Please CLICK HERE find our latest update of important information!
Mar
24
FOR HELPFUL INFORMATION NAVIGATING THIS CHALLENGING TIME….
AN IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM YOUR OAKTON PTA
COVID-19 has changed and continues to change our lives. We all need help figuring out the ever-shifting landscapes of education, parenting, health, business, and just the daily business of living in this unexpected new reality. We are blessed with a community of OES parents, teachers, staff, and friends that are willing to share helpful information and just communicate with each other. We urge you to join the OES PTA Facebook Group and check in frequently to ask questions, share information, monitor what is going on, and just feel part of a vibrant and welcoming community.
JOIN US AT https://www.facebook.com/groups/OaktonPTA/
Mar
24
PARENT INFORMATION RELATING TO SPECIAL EDUCATION
Parent Information Relating to Special Education
All these opportunities are FREE unless noted.
In most cases you must register if registration information is provided.
When other events become available they will be posted at: https://fairfaxcountysepta.org/upcoming-community-events/
Variety of Recorded Webinars on Adoption-Related Topics — April 1- April 30
Topics range from emotional regulation, to supporting children with FASD, to dealing with loss and grief. View 48 hours. FREE with Coupon: HOME at checkout.
Information: https://store.adoptionsupport.org/webinars/in-demand-webinars
When You and Your Child Have ADHD— Communication Skills to Resolve Conflict
Fri. April 3, 2:30-3:30 pm Webinar
Learn to communicate effectively and resolve conflict with your child with ADHD.
Register: https://chadd.org/ask-the-expert/
Community Sensory Day
Sat. Apr. 4, 10 am-1 pm, 12099 Government Center Pkwy, Fairfax
The Dept. of Neighborhood & Community Services is hosting this fun event focusing on safety for families of individuals with development disabilities.
Info: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/neighborhood-community-services/therapeutic-recreation/fantastic-times
Too Much Screen Time? Practical Tips for Parents — Online Chat
Mon. Apr. 6, noon-1 pm
Learn practical tips to manage your child’s screen time, and learn a little about children’s current online fads.
Info: https://www.understood.org/en/community-events/experts-live-chats-webinars?
Medicating Your Child with ADHD: How to Manage the Feelings of Guilt
Wed. April 15, 1-2 pm Webinar with recorded option
Learn about the role of medication in treatment, myths about ADHD medications, and helpful ways to talk with yourself and others (including your children).
Register: https://www.additudemag.com/webinar/medicating-children/?
Parent Workshop on Executive Functioning Skills
Thu., Apr. 16, 7:00-8:30 pm, Sycamore Sch. 4600 North Fairfax Dr. #300 Arlington
Learn what executive functioning is, how the skills apply to children of various ages, and how to support children at home and in school.
Register: https://thesycamoreschoolva.org/upcoming-events/
Supported Decision Making in Healthcare and Life Planning
Thu. Apr. 16, noon–1:00 pm, — Webinar with recorded option
Learn how to use Supported Decision Making for individuals with developmental disabilities for various types of healthcare, as well as in planning for aging.
Register: https://thearcofnova.org/programs/info-referral/workshop-series-sdm/
REVIVE Trainings To Prevent Opioid Overdoses
Fri, Apr.17, 10:00-11:30 am, Northwest Center 1850 Cameron Glen Dr. #600, Reston
Sun. Apr. 19, 3:00-4:30 pm, A New Beginning Gym, 4213 Walney Rd. Chantilly
Learn what to do and not do in an overdose situation, how to administer naloxone, and what to do afterwards. Supplies are provided for use when needed.
Info: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/community-services-board/heroin-opioids/revive
Feeing Stressed? 10 Simple and Powerful Coping Strategies for Parents and Kids
Wed. Apr. 22, 7:30-9:00 pm, Lab Sch. 4759 Reservoir Rd, NW, Wash. DC
Learn how to make simple changes in your thinking and behavior that will lead to a healthier approach to managing stress and even help you get back to enjoying life!
Register: https://www.labschool.org/community-and-resources/lecture-series
Business Networking Event for Special Needs Parents
Thu. Apr. 23, 9:00-10:30 am, Building #625, 601 Catoctin Cir. NE, Leesburg
Connect with fellow special needs parents who are business owners, build your referral network, and share best practices at this networking event.
Info: https://thearcofloudoun.org/networking/
How to Manage Meltdowns — Webinar
Thu. Apr. 23, noon-1 pm
Learn strategies for managing your child’s meltdowns or emotional outbursts, and ask your questions about how to help your child self-regulate.
Info: https://www.understood.org/en/community-events/experts-live-chats-webinars/2020/april/23/how-to-manage-meltdowns
Would My Child Benefit from Medication? — Webinar with Extended Access
Thu. Apr. 23, 1:00-2:30 pm, Access Recording: Apr. 23 – May 23
Learn what you should consider and the questions you should ask of treatment providers when making decisions about use of medication for a child
Register: https://store.adoptionsupport.org/product/SYF-0423/apr-syf-webinar-would-my-child-benefit-from-medication. $0-$15. Free with coupon code.
National Drug Take Back Day
Sat. Apr, 25, 10 am-2 pm. All eight Police District Stations in Fairfax County
National Take Back Day is a safe, responsible way to dispose of unused or expired prescription drugs at all 8 Police District Stations in Fairfax County.
Info: https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov
Using Growth Mindset Strategies for Writing! — For 4th & 5th Graders
Sat. Apr. 25, 1:30 – 3:00 pm, StudyPro, 6849 Old Dominion Dr. #200 McLean
During this workshop, we will explore different types of writing, practice ideas to get started when stuck and learn how to look at editing in a more positive light.
Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/using-growth-mindset-strategies-for-writing-4th-5th-graders-tickets-81635842001?aff=ebdssbeac
Plan Ahead — Foster, Adoptive and Kinship Family Fun Day
Sat. May 2, 8-am-2 pm, GMU Sci. and Tech campus 10900 Univ. Blvd. Manassas
Kids age 4 and older have outdoor activities next door to where parents and caregivers meet for learning and connection. Youth and young adult track speaker.
Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2020-spring-forward-family-fun-day-tickets-89880355563?
Support Groups for Parents
Alpha Moms This support group for adoptive parents meets monthly in McLean. Contact: robin4brady@gmail.com
Autism Dads meets one evening monthly in Falls Church. Contact: George Buzby at 571-419-1257 or gbuzby@aol.com
CHADD: Children & Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
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Alexandria CHADD Parent Support Group 4th Mon. of each month at 6:30 pm. Contact: Jenny ADHDParentMountVernon@gmail.com or call 703-472-4678.
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Burke CHADD Support Group for Parents, Caregivers and Family Members Last Thursday of the month at 7:00 pm. Contact Kim Griffin: kimberlyrgriffin@yahoo.com
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West Fairfax CHADD Evening Parent Support Group 3rd Thur. of each month at 7:30 pm Contact: Sharon clintob@aol.com or 703-716-4646.
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West Fairfax CHADD Morning Parent Support Group 1st Tues. of each month at 10:30 am Contact: Sharon clintob@aol.com or 703-716-4646.
CSB Family Support Group at Gatlan Center 2nd and 4th Wed. of each month 6-8 pm in Alexandria Contact: Samar.Chwairy@fairfaxcounty.gov or call 703-799-2882.
D.A.D.S. Dads Appreciating Down Syndrome 3rd Tue. each month, 7-9 pm in Alexandria. Contact: George gbuzby@aol.com or call 703- 545-6089.
Fairfax Juvenile Court Parent Support Group for problems including runaway behavior, truancy, alcohol/drug abuse, and serious behavioral problems at home, at school, or in the community. 7:30 pm every Tues. Room 201.1 Fairfax County Courthouse – call 703-246-2495.
Kinship Caregivers Support Group 2nd & 4th Thur. monthly, 6:30-8:00 pm, South County Gov. Ctr. Rm. 220, 8350 Richmond Hgwy, Alexandria. Free dinner and resources. Register 1 week ahead: KFI@fairfaxcounty.gov or 703-246-4653
Kinship Café – meets monthly on the 2nd Wed. in Fairfax. Free dinner. Activities for children and discussion for adults. Register 1 week ahead by calling 703-246-4653 or online at https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/hscode/EReg/Registration.aspx?groupID=27
NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness builds better lives for affected families. Arlington Parent Support Group meets two Sundays a month at 7:00-8:30 pm. Contact: Naomi 703-862-9588 verdugo.naomi@gmail.com
Northern Virginia Tourette Support Group meets the 2nd Sunday of each month at noon at the Chantilly Public Library. Contact: mark.bramer@gmail.com
OCD Family Support Group 1st Monday of each month 7:30 pm. Contact: familygroupocd@varizon.net or call 202-215-5859
Parents of Autistic Children (POAC) meeting times and location posted at: https://poac-nova.org/events/
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