FCPS

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Dear Owl Families,

As the winter break has arrived, we wanted to take a moment to extend our warmest wishes to you and your loved ones. We hope this upcoming break brings you moments of joy, relaxation, and connection with those who matter most.

Whether your plans involve traveling to new destinations or enjoying the comfort of home, we wish you safe journeys and a peaceful, rejuvenating time.

From our Orange Hunt family to yours, we send our heartfelt wishes for a joyous break and a prosperous New Year ahead. We can't wait to welcome everyone back in 2025 for another amazing year of learning and growth.

Thank you for being an integral part of our community. Your support and partnership mean the world to us. Here's to a new calendar year filled with kindness, learning, and shared successes.

Warm regards,

Karen Tuttle, Kate Austin, and Heather Mathews

Your Orange Hunt Principals

The Main Office will be closed during Winter Break.

Our staff will be taking time to be with their families over the break.  The main office will be closed during Winter Break, December 21- January 3.  The office will open on January 6, 2025.  Staff will also not be available via email and will return your message when they come back in the new year.  We hope that you enjoy the time with your families over the break.

Dual Language Immersion Lottery

Registration for the countywide lottery for FCPS’ 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 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 the DLI Program Registration webpage.

Upcoming Events

December 21-January 5 - Winter Break office will be closed

January 20 - Holiday

January 29 - Teacher Work Day Student Holiday

FCPS Cares!

The FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. We invite you to submit your story, so we can all acknowledge the good work of FCPS employees at Orange Hunt ES. We love our OHES staff members, let's tell them how we feel!

Your Partners In Education

We are in this together!!  We are thankful to have the opportunity to work with your family this year and will work every day to ensure a safe and positive learning environment for your child. Please contact us when there is a question or concern. Thank you for your support and being part of our team!

Your Partner Principals,

Karen Tuttle                     [email protected]

Kate Austin                      [email protected]

Heather Mathews            [email protected]

Want To Be Involved?

Visit the Orange Hunt PTA website for all sponsored events and activities.

6820 Sydenstricker Road, Springfield, VA 22152 | Phone: 703.913.6800

Attendance: 703.913.6868 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

Check out what is happening at Orange Hunt:

A Fantastic Show!
Our 5th and 6th-grade band students delivered an amazing performance today, and we loved watching! The skit featuring Aunt Rhodie’s exciting adventure was full of fun and energy—what a great way to celebrate their hard work and talent!  It was an exciting show for all!

Dining Room Assistants Wanted

Are you interested in working at Orange Hunt as a dining room assistant? We have positions available!  

Hours: 10:15 a.m. - 2:15 p.m. daily 

Please email Ms. Balmaceda if you are interested.  

Come join our team!!!! 

The Main Office will be closed during Winter Break.

Our staff will be taking time to be with their families over the break.  The main office will be closed during Winter Break, December 21- January 3.  The office will open on January 6, 2025.  Staff will also not be available via email and will return your message when they come back in the new year.  We hope that you enjoy the time with your families over the break.

KISS & RIDE RULES & REMINDIERS

Please note that our Kiss & Ride is staffed until 8:45 a.m. After 8:45 a.m. students need to be walked to the office and signed.  Unfortunately, staff cannot wait past 8:45 a.m. for students as they need to return to classrooms for instruction.  

STAY in your vehicle at all times.
FOLLOW staff directions for safety.

DO NOT drop students off at different doors, stop once and all children exit the vehicle.

Student & Family Winter 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. 

  DEADLINE APPROACHING SOON!  Yearbooks Now on Sale

 

Yearbooks are now on sale! Use the link or QR code to purchase by December 31 for the early bird price of $16.00. Price increases to $20.00 on January 1, 2025.

Buy the Orange Hunt Yearbook

School ID Number: 724530

Boundary Review

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.

Register here. 

Attendance - Reporting Absences and Tardies

To report your child absent/tardy from school, please report absences through your SIS ParentVUE account, call 703-913-6868, or email  [email protected] (reporting absences through Talking Points to the teacher is not official)

Click here to learn more about the impact of regular school attendance. 

Tis the season…for flu, strep, covid…and pneumonia. Fairfax is seeing an increase in Mycoplasma Pneumoniae, so if your child is sick (cough, congestion, fever, shortness of breath, fatigue) consider requesting the nasal swab in addition to chest xrays-this testing will ensure appropriate antibiotic therapy-see here.

Wash hands regularly, cover coughs and sneezes, and properly dispose of all tissues in the garbage-if you have any additional questions, please reach to our School Nurse, Kimber Tritten, [email protected].

Parent Liaison Corner

Help! My Kids Won’t Go To School!

A roadmap to help parents unravel the underlying causes of their child’s school resistance.

Parents will learn how to take care of themselves in the heat of the moment and how to set supportive boundaries at home. In addition, families will discover key facts and root causes for school refusal.

January 10, 2025   10-11:30 a.m.

Register Here

A Series on Supporting Your Child’s Executive Function Skills

Discover how to support your child’s executive function skills in our webinar series. We will present information on understanding your child’s developmental milestones, recognizing signs of executive dysfunction, and implementing effective strategies to support their learning at home and in school.

January 17, 2025   10-11:30 a.m.

Register Here

Spirit Days

December 

Calendar Link

PTA Events & Activities

OHES Upcoming Events and Deadlines  

• December 1: Registration for Bingo Opens 
• Note: No PTA meeting in December
• Washington Nationals Raffle - go to the PTA website to get your raffle ticket for a chance to win tickets to a game!!  

Visit the Orange Hunt PTA website for all sponsored events and activity information and registrations.

Upcoming Events

December 21-January 5 - Winter Break office will be closed

January 20 - Holiday

January 28 - Teacher Work Day Student Holiday

Your Partners In Education

We are in this together!!  We are thankful to have the opportunity to work with your family this year and will work every day to ensure a safe and positive learning environment for your child. Please contact us when there is a question or concern. Thank you for your support and being part of our team!

Your Partner Principals,

Karen Tuttle                     [email protected]

Kate Austin                      [email protected]

Heather Mathews            [email protected]

6820 Sydenstricker Road, Springfield, VA 22152 | Phone: 703.913.6800

Attendance: 703.913.6868 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

Check out what is happening at Orange Hunt:

Welcome back and welcome to December. You will see a calendar with some spirit days if your child would like to participate.  We hope you will join in on the fun!  Here is the link to have full size or to print!

AAP Important Dates 

Full-time AAP referrals submitted in paper form are due by 3:30 p.m. on Friday, December 13th and forms submitted electronically are due to Jenny Weis by Sunday, December 15th by 11:59 p.m. Forms received after these deadlines cannot be accepted.  

Full-time AAP Referral

Parent Questionnaire

KISS & RIDE RULES & REMINDIERS

Please note that our Kiss & Ride is staffed until 8:45 a.m. After 8:45 a.m. students need to be walked to the office and signed.  Unfortunately, staff cannot wait past 8:45 a.m. for students as they need to return to classrooms for instruction.  

STAY in your vehicle at all times.
FOLLOW staff directions for safety.

DO NOT drop students off at different doors, stop once and all children exit the vehicle.

  DEADLINE APPROACHING SOON!  Yearbooks Now on Sale

 

Yearbooks are now on sale! Use the link or QR code to purchase by December 31 for the early bird price of $16.00. Price increases to $20.00 on January 1, 2025.

Buy the Orange Hunt Yearbook

School ID Number: 724530

Boundary Review

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.

Spelling Bee

February 12, 2025, at 6:00 PM

Orange Hunt Cafeteria

Challenge yourself by learning new words and testing your memory. The winner of this event will represent Orange Hunt at the Fairfax County Spelling Bee in March. That champion will receive an invitation to participate at the Scripps National Spelling Bee.

Registration by January 11, 2025, is required to participate in this event.  Registration is limited to the first 80 students. All other registrations will be added to a waitlist. To register, please complete the Google Form here. After your student is registered, they will receive official word study lists, words of the champions, and official spelling bee rules.

Attendance - Reporting Absences and Tardies

To report your child absent/tardy from school, please report absences through your SIS ParentVUE account, call 703-913-6868, or email  [email protected] (reporting absences through Talking Points to the teacher is not official)

Click here to learn more about the impact of regular school attendance. 

Tis the season…for flu, strep, covid…and pneumonia. Fairfax is seeing an increase in Mycoplasma Pneumoniae, so if your child is sick (cough, congestion, fever, shortness of breath, fatigue) consider requesting the nasal swab in addition to chest xrays-this testing will ensure appropriate antibiotic therapy-see here.

Wash hands regularly, cover coughs and sneezes, and properly dispose of all tissues in the garbage-if you have any additional questions, please reach to our School Nurse, Kimber Tritten, [email protected].

Parent Liaison Corner

Help! My Kids Won’t Go To School!

A roadmap to help parents unravel the underlying causes of their child’s school resistance.

Parents will learn how to take care of themselves in the heat of the moment and how to set supportive boundaries at home. In addition, families will discover key facts and root causes for school refusal.

January 10, 2025   10-11:30 a.m.

Register Here

A Series on Supporting Your Child’s Executive Function Skills

Discover how to support your child’s executive function skills in our webinar series. We will present information on understanding your child’s developmental milestones, recognizing signs of executive dysfunction, and implementing effective strategies to support their learning at home and in school.

January 17, 2025   10-11:30 a.m.

Register Here

Spirit Days

December 

Calendar Link

PTA Events & Activities

OHES Upcoming Events and Deadlines  

• December 1: Registration for Bingo Opens
• December 11: Chili Bar in Teachers' Lounge 
• Note: No PTA meeting in December
• Washington Nationals Raffle - go to the PTA website to get your raffle ticket for a chance to win tickets to a game!!  

Visit the Orange Hunt PTA website for all sponsored events and activity information and registrations.

Upcoming Events

December 21-January 5 - Winter Break office will be closed

January 20 - Holiday

January 28 - Teacher Work Day Student Holiday

Your Partners In Education

We are in this together!!  We are thankful to have the opportunity to work with your family this year and will work every day to ensure a safe and positive learning environment for your child. Please contact us when there is a question or concern. Thank you for your support and being part of our team!

Your Partner Principals,

Karen Tuttle                     [email protected]

Kate Austin                      [email protected]

Heather Mathews            [email protected]

6820 Sydenstricker Road, Springfield, VA 22152 | Phone: 703.913.6800

Attendance: 703.913.6868 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

Check out what is happening at Orange Hunt:

Welcome back and welcome to December. You will see a calendar with some spirit days if your child would like to participate.  We hope you will join in on the fun!  Here is the link to have full size or to print!

It's BOOK FAIR time 12/3 - 12/9!

Orange Hunt Library presents our Bookworm Central book fair on the following dates and times:

12/3: Browsing open for students during the school day

The book fair is open to parents to shop after school during the following:

12/3: 3:30 - 7:00 p.m.

12/4: 3:30 - 6:30 p.m.

12/5: 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.

12/6: 3:30 - 5:30 p.m.

12/9: 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.

There is also an online bookfair at Bookworm for parents and students to shop.  

Proceeds will help support the OHES library to include the News Studio and other reading programs. 

Our OHES Outstanding Staff!

Congratulations to our Orange Hunt award winners that will move to the pyramid level.

• Zoe Walker – Outstanding New Teacher
• Megan Lafond- Outstanding Teacher
• Iliana Jaramillo (Custodian)– Outstanding Operational Employee
• Juliet Johnson (Social Worker)–  Outstanding Professional Employee

AAP Important Dates

Full-time AAP referrals submitted in paper form are due by 3:30 p.m. on Friday, December 13th and forms submitted electronically are due to Jenny Weis by Sunday, December 15th by 11:59 p.m. Forms received after these deadlines cannot be accepted.  

YEARBOOKS! YEARBOOKS!  DEADLINE APPROACHING SOON!  Yearbooks Now on Sale

Yearbook now on sale! Use the link or QR code to purchase by December 31 for the early bird discount price of $16.00. Price increases to $20.00 on January 1, 2025.

Buy the Orange Hunt Yearbook

School ID Number: 724530

Square 1 Art Fundraiser - Deadline Extended! 

Square 1 Art Fundraiser

It’s time to order your unique keepsakes with your child’s artwork. This week and next, students will be bringing home their artwork along with an order form.

Simply search for your child's art using the QR code or access code that’s displayed on the back of your child’s form at square1art.com/shop

***DEADLINE EXTENDED!!!***

Order by Deadline:  11/20/2024     New Date 12/4/24

*Free shipping on all orders if placed by 11/20/24 New Date 12/4/24

Upload additional art if you like, using Art Upload!

Your support makes this fundraiser a success. If you have any questions, please contact Art Teacher-Maureen Kieffer- [email protected] or Square 1 Art (details on flyer.)

Boundary Review

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.

Spelling Bee

February 12, 2025, at 6:00 PM

Orange Hunt Cafeteria

Challenge yourself by learning new words and testing your memory. The winner of this event will represent Orange Hunt at the Fairfax County Spelling Bee in March. That champion will receive an invitation to participate at the Scripps National Spelling Bee.

Registration by January 11, 2025, is required to participate in this event.  Registration is limited to the first 80 students. All other registrations will be added to a waitlist. To register, please complete the Google Form here. After your student is registered, they will receive official word study lists, words of the champions, and official spelling bee rules.

Stress Less, Enjoy More. Reducing Stress and Increasing Happiness: A Webinar for Families

Kids and families are under stress from so many sources, and they are suffering as a result. Achievement pressure, time pressure, social pressure, and uncertainty about a rapidly changing world are eroding the health of our youth. But it doesn’t have to be that way!

Well-known parenting expert, psychologist and author (and FCPS parent) Dr. Heather Tedesco will show you:

• The surprising ways stress shows up in kids
• The power parents have to reduce stress (in our kids and ourselves)
• How we can nurture happiness and build psychological strength in our kids long-term
• Specific strategies to stress less and enjoy more

December 6, 2024 10-11:30 a.m.

Register Here

Attendance - Reporting Absences and Tardies

To report your child absent/tardy from school, please report absences through your SIS ParentVUE account, call 703-913-6868, or email  [email protected] (reporting absences through Talking Points to the teacher is not official)

Click here to learn more about the impact of regular school attendance. 

Tis the season…for flu, strep, covid…and pneumonia. Fairfax is seeing an increase in Mycoplasma Pneumoniae, so if your child is sick (cough, congestion, fever, shortness of breath, fatigue) consider requesting the nasal swab in addition to chest xrays-this testing will ensure appropriate antibiotic therapy-see here.

Wash hands regularly, cover coughs and sneezes, and properly dispose of all tissues in the garbage-if you have any additional questions, please reach to our School Nurse, Kimber Tritten, [email protected].

Parent Liaison Corner

Help! My Kids Won’t Go To School!

A roadmap to help parents unravel the underlying causes of their child’s school resistance.

Parents will learn how to take care of themselves in the heat of the moment and how to set supportive boundaries at home. In addition, families will discover key facts and root causes for school refusal.

January 10, 2025   10-11:30 a.m.

Register Here

A Series on Supporting Your Child’s Executive Function Skills

Discover how to support your child’s executive function skills in our webinar series. We will present information on understanding your child’s developmental milestones, recognizing signs of executive dysfunction, and implementing effective strategies to support their learning at home and in school.

January 17, 2025   10-11:30 a.m.

Register Here

 

Sign up West Springfield Sports Camps!

Spirit Days

December 

More calendar spirit days coming next week!

PTA Events & Activities

OHES Upcoming Events and Deadlines  

• December 1: Registration for Bingo Opens
• December 11: Chili Bar in Teachers Lounge 
• Note: No PTA meeting in December

Visit the Orange Hunt PTA website for all sponsored events and activity information and registrations.

Upcoming Events

December 21-January 5 - Winter Break office will be closed

January 20 - Holiday

January 28 - Teacher Work Day Student Holiday

Your Partners In Education

We are in this together!!  We are thankful to have the opportunity to work with your family this year and will work every day to ensure a safe and positive learning environment for your child. Please contact us when there is a question or concern. Thank you for your support and being part of our team!

Your Partner Principals,

Karen Tuttle                     [email protected]

Kate Austin                      [email protected]

Heather Mathews            [email protected]

6820 Sydenstricker Road, Springfield, VA 22152 | Phone: 703.913.6800

Attendance: 703.913.6868 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

Check out what is happening at Orange Hunt this week:

Our hallways are filled with gratitude! Our students have been hard at work creating beautiful 'Thankful and Grateful' trees, sharing what they're thankful for this season. Each tree is a colorful reminder of the kindness and appreciation in our school community. Wishing all of our families a warm and wonderful Thanksgiving filled with love, laughter, and special moments together!

AAP Important Dates

Full-time AAP referrals submitted in paper form are due by 3:30 p.m. on Friday, December 13th and forms submitted electronically are due to Jenny Weis by Sunday, December 15th by 11:59 p.m. Forms received after these deadlines cannot be accepted.  

Yearbooks Now on Sale

Yearbook now on sale! Use the link or QR code to purchase by December 31 for the early bird discount price of $16.00. Price increases to $20.00 on January 1, 2025.

Buy the Orange Hunt Yearbook

School ID Number: 724530

Square 1 Art Fundraiser - Deadline Extended! 

Square 1 Art Fundraiser

It’s time to order your unique keepsakes with your child’s artwork. This week and next, students will be bringing home their artwork along with an order form.

Simply search for your child's art using the QR code or access code that’s displayed on the back of your child’s form at square1art.com/shop

***DEADLINE EXTENDED!!!***

Order by Deadline:  11/20/2024     New Date 12/4/24

*Free shipping on all orders if placed by 11/20/24 New Date 12/4/24

Upload additional art if you like, using Art Upload!

Your support makes this fundraiser a success. If you have any questions, please contact Art Teacher-Maureen Kieffer- [email protected] or Square 1 Art (details on flyer.)

Boundary Review

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.

Spelling Bee

February 12, 2025, at 6:00 PM

Orange Hunt Cafeteria

Challenge yourself by learning new words and testing your memory. The winner of this event will represent Orange Hunt at the Fairfax County Spelling Bee in March. That champion will receive an invitation to participate at the Scripps National Spelling Bee.

Registration by January 11, 2025, is required to participate in this event.  Registration is limited to the first 80 students. All other registrations will be added to a waitlist. To register, please complete the Google Form here. After your student is registered, they will receive official word study lists, words of the champions, and official spelling bee rules.

Stress Less, Enjoy More. Reducing Stress and Increasing Happiness: A Webinar for Families

Kids and families are under stress from so many sources, and they are suffering as a result. Achievement pressure, time pressure, social pressure, and uncertainty about a rapidly changing world are eroding the health of our youth. But it doesn’t have to be that way!

Well-known parenting expert, psychologist and author (and FCPS parent) Dr. Heather Tedesco will show you:

• The surprising ways stress shows up in kids
• The power parents have to reduce stress (in our kids and ourselves)
• How we can nurture happiness and build psychological strength in our kids long-term
• Specific strategies to stress less and enjoy more

December 6, 2024 10-11:30 a.m.

Register Here

Attendance - Reporting Absences and Tardies

To report your child absent/tardy from school, please report absences through your SIS ParentVUE account, call 703-913-6868, or email  [email protected] (reporting absences through Talking Points to the teacher is not official)

Click here to learn more about the impact of regular school attendance. 

Tis the season…for flu, strep, covid…and pneumonia. Fairfax is seeing an increase in Mycoplasma Pneumoniae, so if your child is sick (cough, congestion, fever, shortness of breath, fatigue) consider requesting the nasal swab in addition to chest xrays-this testing will ensure appropriate antibiotic therapy-see here.

Wash hands regularly, cover coughs and sneezes, and properly dispose of all tissues in the garbage-if you have any additional questions, please reach to our School Nurse, Kimber Tritten, [email protected].

225 pounds of plastic has been

collected so far!!!  

Recycling Challenge - ongoing project! 

225 pounds of plastic collected has been collected so far!!!  

 

Orange Hunt will get a NEW bench made from recycle plastic, but we need YOUR help! We need 1000 lbs of plastic to get our TREX bench.

Plastic must be clean and dry.  

•Plastic grocery bags •Amazon bags •Cereal box bags •Bread bags •Ziploc bags •Bubble wrap Sensory Disabilities

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.

Spirit Days

December 2 - Orange and Blue day for students

More calendar spirit days coming next week!

PTA Events & Activities

OHES Upcoming Events and Deadlines  

• December 1: Registration for Bingo Opens
• December 11: Chili Bar in Teachers Lounge 
• Note: No PTA meeting in December

Visit the Orange Hunt PTA website for all sponsored events and activity information and registrations.

Upcoming Events

November 27-29 - No School Thanksgiving break

December Calendar coming our next week.

December 21-January 5 - Winter Break office will be closed

Your Partners In Education

We are in this together!!  We are thankful to have the opportunity to work with your family this year and will work every day to ensure a safe and positive learning environment for your child. Please contact us when there is a question or concern. Thank you for your support and being part of our team!

Your Partner Principals,

Karen Tuttle                     [email protected]

Kate Austin                      [email protected]

Heather Mathews            [email protected]

6820 Sydenstricker Road, Springfield, VA 22152 | Phone: 703.913.6800

Attendance: 703.913.6868 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

Check out what is happening at Orange Hunt this week:

We've had a busy and exciting week! A big thank you to our dedicated PTA for organizing the magical Laternenfest and supporting the thrilling Pyramid Challenge. Orange Hunt also saw record-breaking participation, thanks to the encouragement of Mr. McMichael and Ms. Newton. We're grateful for the support of our community and the enthusiasm of our students!

        AAP Info Meeting & Important Dates

Please email Jenny Weis at for a link to participate in the virtual meeting.  

Make-Up / Re-take Picture Day - November 21st

This photo day is for students who were absent, new to the school, or who were not happy with their original package (students are required to return their original package to the photographer). No purchase is necessary.

Any student or staff member who was absent for the original session.
Any new/transfer students or staff who joined after the original session.
Any student/staff who was dissatisfied with their original picture day portrait.*

*Students who previously purchased a photo package and would like to retake
their photo MUST return their original photo package to the photographer in order to receive a new package.

Literacy Resources for Families Webpage

A new Literacy Resources for Families webpage has been published to the external web to provide families with information about how to support their children with developing literacy knowledge and skills at home. It provides valuable information about the reading and writing resources to be used at home, the VALLSS, Reading Plans, guidance for Parent Teacher Conferences, and training available through the Family Academy. 

Boundary Review

📍 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.

Stress Less, Enjoy More. Reducing Stress and Increasing Happiness: A Webinar for Families

Kids and families are under stress from so many sources, and they are suffering as a result. Achievement pressure, time pressure, social pressure, and uncertainty about a rapidly changing world are eroding the health of our youth. But it doesn’t have to be that way!

Well-known parenting expert, psychologist and author (and FCPS parent) Dr. Heather Tedesco will show you:

• The surprising ways stress shows up in kids
• The power parents have to reduce stress (in our kids and ourselves)
• How we can nurture happiness and build psychological strength in our kids long-term
• Specific strategies to stress less and enjoy more

December 6, 2024 10-11:30 a.m.

Register Here

Attendance - Reporting Absences and Tardies

To report your child absent/tardy from school, please report absences through your SIS ParentVUE account, call 703-913-6868, or email  [email protected] (reporting absences through Talking Points to the teacher is not official)

Click here to learn more about the impact of regular school attendance. 

Square 1 Art Fundraiser - Check Your Child's Tuesday Folder!

It’s time to order your unique keepsakes with your child’s artwork. This week and next, students will be bringing home their artwork along with an order form.

Simply search for your child's art using the QR code or access code that’s displayed on the back of your child’s form at square1art.com/shop

Order by Deadline:  11/20/2024 

*Free shipping on all orders if placed by 11/20/24

Upload additional art if you like, using Art Upload!

Your support makes this fundraiser a success. If you have any questions, please contact Art Teacher-Maureen Kieffer- [email protected] or Square 1 Art (details on flyer.)

Tis the season…for flu, strep, covid…and pneumonia. Fairfax is seeing an increase in Mycoplasma Pneumoniae, so if your child is sick (cough, congestion, fever, shortness of breath, fatigue) consider requesting the nasal swab in addition to chest xrays-this testing will ensure appropriate antibiotic therapy-see here.

Wash hands regularly, cover coughs and sneezes, and properly dispose of all tissues in the garbage-if you have any additional questions, please reach to our School Nurse, Kimber Tritten, [email protected].

Yearbooks Now on Sale

Yearbook now on sale! Use the link or QR code to purchase by December 31 for the early bird discount price of $16.00. Price increases to $20.00 on January 1, 2025.

Buy the Orange Hunt Yearbook

School ID Number: 724530

Recycling Challenge - ongoing project! 

Orange Hunt will get a NEW bench made from recycle plastic, but we need YOUR help! We need 1000 lbs of plastic to get our TREX bench.

Plastic must be clean and dry.  

•Plastic grocery bags •Amazon bags •Cereal box bags •Bread bags •Ziploc bags •Bubble wrap

Click this link to register for book club! 

 

Click here to order your book. 

Sensory Disabilities

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.

Spirit Days

Friday, November 22 - Flannel Friday

PTA Events & Activities

OHES Upcoming Events and Deadlines  

NOVEMBER

• Week of November 18th: Thankful Trees
• Tuesday, November 19th: Restaurant Fundraiser at Taco Bamba
• Wednesday, November 20th: PTA Meeting 7pm
• Thursday, November 21st: OHES Parent Book Club 5:30pm

Visit the Orange Hunt PTA website for all sponsored events and activity information and registrations.

Upcoming Events

November 21 - Make-up Picture Day (more information to follow later)

November 27-29 - No School Thanksgiving break

Your Partners In Education

We are in this together!!  We are thankful to have the opportunity to work with your family this year and will work every day to ensure a safe and positive learning environment for your child. Please contact us when there is a question or concern. Thank you for your support and being part of our team!

Your Partner Principals,

Karen Tuttle                     [email protected]

Kate Austin                      [email protected]

Heather Mathews            [email protected]

6820 Sydenstricker Road, Springfield, VA 22152 | Phone: 703.913.6800

Attendance: 703.913.6868 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

 

Check out what is happening at Orange Hunt this week:

We had a heartwarming Veterans Day celebration! Thank you to all the veterans and parents who joined us. Our students had a blast with fun activities like Two Truths and a Lie, Boot Camp, Poppy Art, and a fantastic musical performance from our band, choir, and strings. A special thanks to our veteran parents who performed alongside our band students. We’re grateful for your service and sacrifice!

Make-Up / Re-take Picture Day - November 21st

This photo day is for students who were absent, new to the school, or who were not happy with their original package (students are required to return their original package to the photographer). No purchase is necessary.

Any student or staff member who was absent for the original session.
Any new/transfer students or staff who joined after the original session.
Any student/staff who was dissatisfied with their original picture day portrait.*

*Students who previously purchased a photo package and would like to retake
their photo MUST return their original photo package to the photographer in order to receive a new package.

Federal Impact Aid Survey - DUE NOW

Complete your survey - click here! 

FCPS is asking all families to fill out a Federal Impact Aid Survey. The form is available in SIS ParentVUE under Online Packets (in the upper right corner after logging in). Please complete it as soon as possible.

For any families who have not completed the survey in ParentVUE, paper copies have been sent home with your student. Paper forms should be returned by Friday, November 22.

Completing this form for each school-aged child in every household is important. 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.

For more information, please watch this video on Impact Aid and visit the Federal Impact Aid Survey page.

Click here to view the video on the Federal Impact Aid Survey. 

Language Arts Curriculum

Our teachers have been hard at work teaching with the new Language Arts curriculum, and we are excited to help all of our students become strong readers and writers! This year we also have new assessments, which is how we check if your student needs extra help with reading and writing, and new Standards of Learning (SOLs).

Because of these changes, we are now teaching all of the Language Arts skills your child needs to know (and checking if they need extra help) throughout the whole school year, instead of different skills each quarter. While these skills will be new to your child in the beginning of the year, the goal is for your child to grow strong in all of their new skills by the end of the year.

This means that when you get your child’s progress report next month, it might look different. Your child’s teacher will give you more information on the new progress reporting and how we’re making sure your child is getting any extra help they might need. You can also find more information on FCPS’ Grading and Reporting webpage.

We will also have new ways for you to help your child practice their reading and writing skills at home. These resources are coming soon!

Literacy Resources for Families Webpage

A new Literacy Resources for Families webpage has been published to the external web to provide families with information about how to support their children with developing literacy knowledge and skills at home. It provides valuable information about the reading and writing resources to be used at home, the VALLSS, Reading Plans, guidance for Parent Teacher Conferences, and training available through the Family Academy. 

Boundary Review

📍 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.

Stress Less, Enjoy More. Reducing Stress and Increasing Happiness: A Webinar for Families

Kids and families are under stress from so many sources, and they are suffering as a result. Achievement pressure, time pressure, social pressure, and uncertainty about a rapidly changing world are eroding the health of our youth. But it doesn’t have to be that way!

Well-known parenting expert, psychologist and author (and FCPS parent) Dr. Heather Tedesco will show you:

• The surprising ways stress shows up in kids
• The power parents have to reduce stress (in our kids and ourselves)
• How we can nurture happiness and build psychological strength in our kids long-term
• Specific strategies to stress less and enjoy more

December 6, 2024 10-11:30 a.m.

Register Here

Attendance - Reporting Absences and Tardies

To report your child absent/tardy from school, please report absences through your SIS ParentVUE account, call 703-913-6868, or email  [email protected] (reporting absences through Talking Points to the teacher is not official)

Click here to learn more about the impact of regular school attendance. 

Square 1 Art Fundraiser - Check Your Child's Tuesday Folder!

It’s time to order your unique keepsakes with your child’s artwork. This week and next, students will be bringing home their artwork along with an order form.

Simply search for your child's art using the QR code or access code that’s displayed on the back of your child’s form at square1art.com/shop

Order by Deadline:  11/20/2024 

*Free shipping on all orders if placed by 11/20/24

Upload additional art if you like, using Art Upload!

Your support makes this fundraiser a success. If you have any questions, please contact Art Teacher-Maureen Kieffer- [email protected] or Square 1 Art (details on flyer.)

Tis the season…for flu, strep, covid…and pneumonia. Fairfax is seeing an increase in Mycoplasma Pneumoniae, so if your child is sick (cough, congestion, fever, shortness of breath, fatigue) consider requesting the nasal swab in addition to chest xrays-this testing will ensure appropriate antibiotic therapy-see here.

Wash hands regularly, cover coughs and sneezes, and properly dispose of all tissues in the garbage-if you have any additional questions, please reach to our School Nurse, Kimber Tritten, [email protected].

Yearbooks Now on Sale

Yearbook now on sale! Use the link or QR code to purchase by December 31 for the early bird discount price of $16.00. Price increases to $20.00 on January 1, 2025.

Buy the Orange Hunt Yearbook

School ID Number: 724530

Recycling Challenge - ongoing project! 

Orange Hunt will get a NEW bench made from recycle plastic, but we need YOUR help! We need 1000 lbs of plastic to get our TREX bench.

Plastic must be clean and dry.  

•Plastic grocery bags •Amazon bags •Cereal box bags •Bread bags •Ziploc bags •Bubble wrap

Click this link to register for book club! 

 

Click here to order your book. 

Sensory Disabilities

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.

Spirit Days

Thursday, November 14 - PJ day

PTA Events & Activities

OHES Upcoming Events and Deadlines  

NOVEMBER

• Lanternfest November 14 - Postponed due to weather stay tuned
• Week of November 18th: Thankful Trees
• Tuesday, November 19th: Restaurant Fundraiser at Taco Bamba
• Wednesday, November 20th: PTA Meeting
• Thursday, November 21st: OHES Parent Book Club

Visit the Orange Hunt PTA website for all sponsored events and activity information and registrations.

Upcoming Events

November 14 - PJ day

November 21 - Make-up Picture Day (more information to follow later)

November 27-29 - No School Thanksgiving break

Your Partners In Education

We are in this together!!  We are thankful to have the opportunity to work with your family this year and will work every day to ensure a safe and positive learning environment for your child. Please contact us when there is a question or concern. Thank you for your support and being part of our team!

Your Partner Principals,

Karen Tuttle                     [email protected]

Kate Austin                      [email protected]

Heather Mathews            [email protected]

6820 Sydenstricker Road, Springfield, VA 22152 | Phone: 703.913.6800

Attendance: 703.913.6868 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

Check out what is happening at Orange Hunt this week:

Our second-grade students had a great learning opportunity to become citizen scientists and contribute to the preservation of monarch butterflies. They eagerly observed the life cycle of these beautiful insects, from tiny eggs to vibrant caterpillars, and finally, to stunning butterflies. The students were filled with excitement and wonder as they witnessed each stage of the metamorphosis. When the time came, they gently released the butterflies into the wild, feeling a sense of accomplishment and joy.

Outstanding Employee Awards - DEADLINE EXTENDED UNTIL November 11th!!!! 

Help us recognize the outstanding employees at Orange Hunt!

Outstanding Employee Awards nominations will be open beginning October 18th and end on November 11th. Nominations are accepted for the following roles:

• Outstanding Teacher
• Outstanding New Teacher
• Outstanding Principal (principal only)
• Outstanding Leader (includes APs)
• Outstanding Professional Employee
• Outstanding Operational Employee

Please follow the link to nominate beginning October 18th.  

Federal Impact Aid Survey - DUE NOW

Complete your survey - click here! 

FCPS is asking all families to fill out a Federal Impact Aid Survey. The form is available in SIS ParentVUE under Online Packets (in the upper right corner after logging in). Please complete it as soon as possible.

For any families who have not completed the survey in ParentVUE, schools will provide paper forms starting Wednesday, November 13. Paper forms should be returned by Friday, November 22.

Completing this form for each school-aged child in every household is important. 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.

For more information, please watch this video on Impact Aid and visit the Federal Impact Aid Survey page.

Click here to view the video on the Federal Impact Aid Survey. 

Language Arts Curriculum

Our teachers have been hard at work teaching with the new Language Arts curriculum, and we are excited to help all of our students become strong readers and writers! This year we also have new assessments, which is how we check if your student needs extra help with reading and writing, and new Standards of Learning (SOLs).

Because of these changes, we are now teaching all of the Language Arts skills your child needs to know (and checking if they need extra help) throughout the whole school year, instead of different skills each quarter. While these skills will be new to your child in the beginning of the year, the goal is for your child to grow strong in all of their new skills by the end of the year.

This means that when you get your child’s progress report next month, it might look different. Your child’s teacher will give you more information on the new progress reporting and how we’re making sure your child is getting any extra help they might need. You can also find more information on FCPS’ Grading and Reporting webpage.

We will also have new ways for you to help your child practice their reading and writing skills at home. These resources are coming soon!

Literacy Resources for Families Webpage

A new Literacy Resources for Families webpage has been published to the external web to provide families with information about how to support their children with developing literacy knowledge and skills at home. It provides valuable information about the reading and writing resources to be used at home, the VALLSS, Reading Plans, guidance for Parent Teacher Conferences, and training available through the Family Academy. 

Attendance - Reporting Absences and Tardies

To report your child absent/tardy from school, please report absences through your SIS ParentVUE account, call 703-913-6868, or email  [email protected] (reporting absences through Talking Points to the teacher is not official)

Click here to learn more about the impact of regular school attendance. 

Square 1 Art Fundraiser - Check Your Child's Tuesday Folder!

It’s time to order your unique keepsakes with your child’s artwork. This week and next, students will be bringing home their artwork along with an order form.

Simply search for your child's art using the QR code or access code that’s displayed on the back of your child’s form at square1art.com/shop

Order by Deadline:  11/20/2024 

*Free shipping on all orders if placed by 11/20/24

Upload additional art if you like, using Art Upload!

Your support makes this fundraiser a success. If you have any questions, please contact Art Teacher-Maureen Kieffer- [email protected] or Square 1 Art (details on flyer.)

Tis the season…for flu, strep, covid…and pneumonia. Fairfax is seeing an increase in Mycoplasma Pneumoniae, so if your child is sick (cough, congestion, fever, shortness of breath, fatigue) consider requesting the nasal swab in addition to chest xrays-this testing will ensure appropriate antibiotic therapy-see here.

Wash hands regularly, cover coughs and sneezes, and properly dispose of all tissues in the garbage-if you have any additional questions, please reach to our School Nurse, Kimber Tritten, [email protected].

Yearbooks Now on Sale

Yearbook now on sale! Use the link or QR code to purchase by December 31 for the early bird discount price of $16.00. Price increases to $20.00 on January 1, 2025.

Buy the Orange Hunt Yearbook

School ID Number: 724530

Recycling Challenge

Orange Hunt will get a NEW bench made from recycle plastic, but we need YOUR help! We need 1000 lbs of plastic to get our TREX bench.

Plastic must be clean and dry.  

•Plastic grocery bags •Amazon bags •Cereal box bags •Bread bags •Ziploc bags •Bubble wrap

Click this link to register for book club! 

 

Click here to order your book. 

Spirit Days

Friday, November 8th: Wear Red, White and Blue

Counselor's Corner 5 Ways to De-Escalate a Nuclear Meltdown & Stop the Shame Cycle: A Webinar for Families

Plans go awry, your child gets disappointed or doesn’t get their way. They begin getting upset. Rational talk doesn’t work. Nothing does. Now your child is in full meltdown mode and doesn’t hold back. What do you do?

Calm Parenting Podcast founder, Kirk Martin will show you:

• How to calm kids with big emotions.
• Exactly what to say in the moment and how.
• Why intensity is critical and why to avoid eye contact.
• How to stop the cycle of shame and embarrassment.

November 11, 2024, 10-11:30 a.m.

Register online here

Family Liaison Corner Veterans Day Celebration – November 8

OHES Veterans Day Celebration is a much-anticipated event with our Owls.  It’s an opportunity to recognize the Military Veterans (Active Duty, Reservists, & Veterans) within our own community.  Our celebration is an interactive event where classes rotate between four “stations”:  Career, Bootcamp, Music Performance, & Art Station.  This event’s success depends on our volunteers.  Please read the descriptions below to find the right station to volunteer.  The Art Station is open to ALL parents. Please refer to the schedule below if you would like to volunteer during your student’s session.  Thank you for your support!

Grade Rotation Schedule 9-9:45 am: 5th grade 10- 10:45 am: 6th grade  11-11:45 am: 4th grade & K (Lacich & Ryan) 12-12:45 pm: 2nd grade & K (Trinh & Gray) 1-1:45 pm: 1st grade 2-2:45 pm: 3rd grade

*Art Zone*:  This is a new volunteer station open to all parents.  Join Ms. Kieffer in assisting students in creating their Veterans Day craft.  Click here to sign up for Art Volunteers

*Military Band*:  Another new Veteran Volunteering opportunity.  If you are an Orange Hunt Elementary School parent who plays or played in one of the Military Service Bands, our Orange Hunt Band and Strings Programs could use your help! Veteran Band Volunteers sign up

*Military Career*:  The Veteran Volunteer will tell their group of kids two truths & one lie about your military career while you are/were in service.  The students will attempt to guess the lie & your occupation.  Veterans should be prepared to talk for 2-3 minutes.  Click here for Military Career Volunteer

*Boot Camp*:  Military Volunteers will be assisting the PE team in welcoming students.  One volunteer will briefly explain the importance of physical fitness in the military.  The most important part of this job is to cheer on the students while they go through the obstacle course.  High-fives are encouraged. Click here for Boot Camp Volunteer For any questions or concerns please contact Anne-Marie Balmaceda [email protected]

Contact Ann Marie Balmaceda, our Family Liaison Orange Hunt ES for help.  [email protected]

PTA Events & Activities

OHES Upcoming Events and Deadlines  

NOVEMBER

• Thursday, November 14h: Laternenfest 6:30 p.m.

Meet at the main entrance of the school

The German tradition of Laternenfest honors the soldier Martin, who is remembered for his good deeds and compassion towards others. Children of the elementary school age walk along the streets holding colorful, often self-made lanterns, sing songs, and share treats.

• Saturday, November 16th: Pyramid Challenge (10-12:30)

This event is all about igniting a passion for running among our K-6 students and bringing our community together in a celebration of athleticism and teamwork.

 📆 Date: Saturday, November 16th 🕑 Time: 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM 📍 Location: Irving Middle School

For the safety and enjoyment of all, students must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Visit the Orange Hunt PTA website for all sponsored events and activity information and registrations.

Upcoming Events

 

November 11 - No School - Veterans Day

November 18- Three Hour early release 12:30

November 21 - Make-up Picture Day (more information to follow later)

November 27-29 - No School Thanksgiving break

Your Partners In Education

We are in this together!!  We are thankful to have the opportunity to work with your family this year and will work every day to ensure a safe and positive learning environment for your child. Please contact us when there is a question or concern. Thank you for your support and being part of our team!

Your Partner Principals,

Karen Tuttle                     [email protected]

Kate Austin                      [email protected]

Heather Mathews            [email protected]

6820 Sydenstricker Road, Springfield, VA 22152 | Phone: 703.913.6800

Attendance: 703.913.6868 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

Check out what is happening at Orange Hunt this week:

Our first-grade students celebrated the fall season with a creative and festive Pumpkin Parade! Each student transformed a pumpkin into a beloved storybook character, showcasing their imagination and artistic skills. The parade was a delightful event, filled with colorful pumpkins and excited young learners. It was a wonderful opportunity for our students to share their creations with their classmates and teachers.

Federal Impact Aid Survey - DUE NOW

Complete your survey - click here! 

FCPS is asking all families to fill out a Federal Impact Aid Survey. The form is available in SIS ParentVUE under Online Packets (in the upper right corner after logging in). Please complete it as soon as possible.

For any families who have not completed the survey in ParentVUE, schools will provide paper forms starting Wednesday, November 13. Paper forms should be returned by Friday, November 22.

Completing this form for each school-aged child in every household is important. 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.

For more information, please watch this video on Impact Aid and visit the Federal Impact Aid Survey page.

Click here to view the video on the Federal Impact Aid Survey. 

Kids Cookie Election - 11/5

The historic Sydenstricker Schoolhouse invites parents to stop by the Schoolhouse with their kiddos between 7am-6pm to vote for their favorite of four cookie candidates and get an "I Voted" sticker. The community is invited to come back at 6:30 for the announcement of the winner and a cookie reception from 6:30-7pm. This weekend, we will have a bin at the Schoolhouse for kids to drop off "campaign posters" promoting their favorite of the four cookies. We're excited to give kids a chance to participate in an election geared towards them! ​Introduce your kids to the rights and responsibilities of voting with this fun, immersive and delicious experience!  

Here is a link to our website:

https://urldefense.com/v3/__http://www.sydenstrickerschoolhouse.org/cookie-election---2024.html__;!!Pwvz7ORF!MEmfn_hE0NzOwuJGDqcv3Cdf6aNJ1zV4qDgznpcnZ8Ld_te3fY92RvwR77iGqAOW2xUaXBI0tAiLfNHdQ7h_j59Faw$

Outstanding Employee Awards

Help us recognize the outstanding employees at Orange Hunt!

Outstanding Employee Awards nominations will be open beginning October 18th and end on November 1st. Nominations are accepted for the following roles:

• Outstanding Teacher
• Outstanding New Teacher
• Outstanding Principal (principal only)
• Outstanding Leader (includes APs)
• Outstanding Professional Employee
• Outstanding Operational Employee

Please follow the link to nominate beginning October 18th.  

Attendance - Reporting Absences and Tardies

To report your child absent/tardy from school, please report absences through your SIS ParentVUE account, call 703-913-6868, or email  [email protected] (reporting absences through Talking Points to the teacher is not official)

Click here to learn more about the impact of regular school attendance. 

Square 1 Art Fundraiser - Check Your Child's Tuesday Folder!

It’s time to order your unique keepsakes with your child’s artwork. This week and next, students will be bringing home their artwork along with an order form.

Simply search for your child's art using the QR code or access code that’s displayed on the back of your child’s form at square1art.com/shop

Order by Deadline:  11/20/2024 

*Free shipping on all orders if placed by 11/20/24

Upload additional art if you like, using Art Upload!

Your support makes this fundraiser a success. If you have any questions, please contact Art Teacher-Maureen Kieffer- [email protected] or Square 1 Art (details on flyer.)

Tis the season…for flu, strep, covid…and pneumonia. Fairfax is seeing an increase in Mycoplasma Pneumoniae, so if your child is sick (cough, congestion, fever, shortness of breath, fatigue) consider requesting the nasal swab in addition to chest xrays-this testing will ensure appropriate antibiotic therapy-see here: 

Wash hands regularly, cover coughs and sneezes, and properly dispose of all tissues in the garbage-if you have any additional questions, please reach to our School Nurse, Kimber Tritten, [email protected].

Yearbooks Now on Sale

Yearbook now on sale! Use the link or QR code to purchase by December 31 for the early bird discount price of $16.00. Price increases to $20.00 on January 1, 2025.

Buy the Orange Hunt Yearbook

School ID Number: 724530

Recycling Challenge

Orange Hunt will get a NEW bench made from recycle plastic, but we need YOUR help! We need 1000 lbs of plastic to get our TREX bench.

Plastic must be clean and dry.  

•Plastic grocery bags •Amazon bags •Cereal box bags •Bread bags •Ziploc bags •Bubble wrap

Click this link to register for book club! 

 

Click here to order your book. 

Spirit Days

Thursday, October 31: Story Book Character Day (no masks and no weapons)

Superintendent Community Conversations

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

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid is hosting a series of Community Conversations this fall. She invites you to share your thoughts and ask questions. Click on a date below to register:

• Wednesday, October 30, at Herndon Middle School.

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

Counselor's Corner 5 Ways to De-Escalate a Nuclear Meltdown & Stop the Shame Cycle: A Webinar for Families

Plans go awry, your child gets disappointed or doesn’t get their way. They begin getting upset. Rational talk doesn’t work. Nothing does. Now your child is in full meltdown mode and doesn’t hold back. What do you do?

Calm Parenting Podcast founder, Kirk Martin will show you:

• How to calm kids with big emotions.
• Exactly what to say in the moment and how.
• Why intensity is critical and why to avoid eye contact.
• How to stop the cycle of shame and embarrassment.

November 11, 2024, 10-11:30 a.m.

Register online here

Lost and Found

Please label your child's backpacks, lunchboxes, and coats/jackets. Items with names that are turned into the Lost and Found will be returned to the student's classroom!  

The Lost and Found may be checked on school days between 9 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Please check in at the main office and our staff will be happy to escort you to the Lost and Found. Students may check at any time during the school day with permission from their teacher.  

Lost and Found items will be donated to a local charity at the end of each grading quarter. The end of the quarter is quickly approaching!

Lost and found items will be bagged and donated on November 6th! 

Family Liaison Corner Veterans Day Celebration – November 8

OHES Veterans Day Celebration is a much-anticipated event with our Owls.  It’s an opportunity to recognize the Military Veterans (Active Duty, Reservists, & Veterans) within our own community.  Our celebration is an interactive event where classes rotate between four “stations”:  Career, Bootcamp, Music Performance, & Art Station.  This event’s success depends on our volunteers.  Please read the descriptions below to find the right station to volunteer.  The Art Station is open to ALL parents. Please refer to the schedule below if you would like to volunteer during your student’s session.  Thank you for your support!

Grade Rotation Schedule 9-9:45 am: 5th grade 10- 10:45 am: 6th grade  11-11:45 am: 4th grade & K (Lacich & Ryan) 12-12:45 pm: 2nd grade & K (Trinh & Gray) 1-1:45 pm: 1st grade 2-2:45 pm: 3rd grade

*Art Zone*:  This is a new volunteer station open to all parents.  Join Ms. Kieffer in assisting students in creating their Veterans Day craft.  Click here to sign up for Art Volunteers

*Military Band*:  Another new Veteran Volunteering opportunity.  If you are an Orange Hunt Elementary School parent who plays or played in one of the Military Service Bands, our Orange Hunt Band and Strings Programs could use your help! Veteran Band Volunteers sign up

*Military Career*:  The Veteran Volunteer will tell their group of kids two truths & one lie about your military career while you are/were in service.  The students will attempt to guess the lie & your occupation.  Veterans should be prepared to talk for 2-3 minutes.  Click here for Military Career Volunteer

*Boot Camp*:  Military Volunteers will be assisting the PE team in welcoming students.  One volunteer will briefly explain the importance of physical fitness in the military.  The most important part of this job is to cheer on the students while they go through the obstacle course.  High-fives are encouraged. Click here for Boot Camp Volunteer For any questions or concerns please contact Anne-Marie Balmaceda [email protected]

Contact Ann Marie Balmaceda, our Family Liaison Orange Hunt ES for help.  [email protected]

PTA Events & Activities

OHES Upcoming Events and Deadlines  

NOVEMBER

• Thursday, November 14h: Laternenfest 6:30 p.m.

Meet at the main entrance of the school

The German tradition of Laternenfest honors the soldier Martin, who is remembered for his good deeds and compassion towards others. Children of the elementary school age walk along the streets holding colorful, often self-made lanterns, sing songs, and share treats.

• Saturday, November 16th: Pyramid Challenge (10-12:30)

This event is all about igniting a passion for running among our K-6 students and bringing our community together in a celebration of athleticism and teamwork.

 📆 Date: Saturday, November 16th 🕑 Time: 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM 📍 Location: Irving Middle School

For the safety and enjoyment of all, students must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Visit the Orange Hunt PTA website for all sponsored events and activity information and registrations.

Upcoming Events

October 31 - Two-hour early release - students dismiss at 1:30 

November 1 - Student Holiday - Diwali, also known as Divali or Deepawali, is a major festival celebrated over five days in many parts of India by people of different faiths including many Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, Muslims and some Buddhists. It is sometimes referred to as "the festival of lights."

All Saints’ Day, in the Christian church, a day commemorating all the saints of the church, both known and unknown, who have attained heaven. It is celebrated on November 1 in the Western churches and on the first Sunday after Pentecost in the Eastern churches. In Roman Catholicism, the feast is usually a holy day of obligation. It is part of the three-day triduum dedicated to remembering the dead, beginning with Halloween (October 31) and followed by All Saints’ Day (November 1) and All Souls' Day (November 2).

November 4: Student Holiday (school planning day)

November 5: Student Holiday (Teacher Workday)

November 18- Three Hour early release 12:30

November 21 - Make-up Picture Day (more information to follow later)

November 27-29 - No School Thanksgiving break

Your Partners In Education

We are in this together!!  We are thankful to have the opportunity to work with your family this year and will work every day to ensure a safe and positive learning environment for your child. Please contact us when there is a question or concern. Thank you for your support and being part of our team!

Your Partner Principals,

Karen Tuttle                     [email protected]

Kate Austin                      [email protected]

Heather Mathews            [email protected]

6820 Sydenstricker Road, Springfield, VA 22152 | Phone: 703.913.6800

Attendance: 703.913.6868 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

Check out what is happening at Orange Hunt this week:

Our school had a fantastic Friday filled with fun and excitement! Students from grades 1-6 participated in our annual Field Day, competing in various athletic events and games. In the evening, we hosted our PTA's Fall Festival, featuring delicious food, exciting activities, and awesome games. It was a wonderful opportunity for our school community to come together and celebrate the start of the fall season.  Thank you to all the volunteers that help support both events!

Federal Impact Aid Survey - DUE NOW

Please be sure to sign in your SIS ParentVUE account to complete this important survey.  One survey is needed for each student!  Please complete the survey form by November 11th. 

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is eligible for federal Impact Aid grants due to the federal presence in our area. The grants from these programs will become part of FCPS' general operating budget. They are critical to ensuring that students receive an excellent education. FCPS anticipates receiving approximately $4,000,000 in Impact Aid funds.

FCPS uses the survey for Federal Impact Aid to identify federally connected students. The survey is available online through ParentVue. FCPS staff will process the information with the utmost confidentiality. Any family who has not completed the survey online will receive a paper copy after November 12th.  PLEASE complete the survey online to help us save the paper!!! 

Click here to view the video on the Federal Impact Aid Survey. 

Outstanding Employee Awards

Help us recognize the outstanding employees at Orange Hunt!

Outstanding Employee Awards nominations will be open beginning October 18th and end on November 1st. Nominations are accepted for the following roles:

• Outstanding Teacher
• Outstanding New Teacher
• Outstanding Principal (principal only)
• Outstanding Leader (includes APs)
• Outstanding Professional Employee
• Outstanding Operational Employee

Please follow the link to nominate beginning October 18th.  

Attendance - Reporting Absences and Tardies

To report your child absent/tardy from school, please report absences through your SIS ParentVUE account, call 703-913-6868, or email  [email protected] (reporting absences through Talking Points to the teacher is not official)

Click here to learn more about the impact of regular school attendance. 

Yearbooks Now on Sale

Yearbook now on sale! Use the link or QR code to purchase by December 31 for the early bird discount price of $16.00. Price increases to $20.00 on January 1, 2025.

Buy the Orange Hunt Yearbook

School ID Number: 724530

Click this link to register for book club! 

 

Click here to order your book. 

Spirit Days

Friday, October 25: Orange and Blue!

Thursday, October 31: Story Book Character Day (no masks)

Superintendent Community Conversations

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

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid is hosting a series of Community Conversations this fall. She invites you to share your thoughts and ask questions. Click on a date below to register:

• Monday, October 21, at Virginia Run Elementary School.
• Wednesday, October 30, at Herndon Middle School.

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

Counselor's Corner 5 Ways to De-Escalate a Nuclear Meltdown & Stop the Shame Cycle: A Webinar for Families

Plans go awry, your child gets disappointed or doesn’t get their way. They begin getting upset. Rational talk doesn’t work. Nothing does. Now your child is in full meltdown mode and doesn’t hold back. What do you do?

Calm Parenting Podcast founder, Kirk Martin will show you:

• How to calm kids with big emotions.
• Exactly what to say in the moment and how.
• Why intensity is critical and why to avoid eye contact.
• How to stop the cycle of shame and embarrassment.

November 11, 2024, 10-11:30 a.m.

Register online here

Lost and Found

Please label your child's backpacks, lunchboxes, and coats/jackets. Items with names that are turned into the Lost and Found will be returned to the student's classroom!  

The Lost and Found may be checked on school days between 9 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Please check in at the main office and our staff will be happy to escort you to the Lost and Found. Students may check at any time during the school day with permission from their teacher.  

Lost and Found items will be donated to a local charity at the end of each grading quarter. The end of the quarter is quickly approaching!

Lost and found items will be bagged and donated on November 6th! 

Family Liaison Corner Veterans Day Celebration – November 8

OHES Veterans Day Celebration is a much-anticipated event with our Owls.  It’s an opportunity to recognize the Military Veterans (Active Duty, Reservists, & Veterans) within our own community.  Our celebration is an interactive event where classes rotate between four “stations”:  Career, Bootcamp, Music Performance, & Art Station.  This event’s success depends on our volunteers.  Please read the descriptions below to find the right station to volunteer.  The Art Station is open to ALL parents. Please refer to the schedule below if you would like to volunteer during your student’s session.  Thank you for your support!

Grade Rotation Schedule 9-9:45 am: 5th grade 10- 10:45 am: 6th grade  11-11:45 am: 4th grade & K (Lacich & Ryan) 12-12:45 pm: 2nd grade & K (Trinh & Gray) 1-1:45 pm: 1st grade 2-2:45 pm: 3rd grade

*Art Zone*:  This is a new volunteer station open to all parents.  Join Ms. Kieffer in assisting students in creating their Veterans Day craft.  Click here to sign up for Art Volunteers

*Military Band*:  Another new Veteran Volunteering opportunity.  If you are an Orange Hunt Elementary School parent who plays or played in one of the Military Service Bands, our Orange Hunt Band and Strings Programs could use your help! Veteran Band Volunteers sign up

*Military Career*:  The Veteran Volunteer will tell their group of kids two truths & one lie about your military career while you are/were in service.  The students will attempt to guess the lie & your occupation.  Veterans should be prepared to talk for 2-3 minutes.  Click here for Military Career Volunteer

*Boot Camp*:  Military Volunteers will be assisting the PE team in welcoming students.  One volunteer will briefly explain the importance of physical fitness in the military.  The most important part of this job is to cheer on the students while they go through the obstacle course.  High-fives are encouraged. Click here for Boot Camp Volunteer For any questions or concerns please contact Anne-Marie Balmaceda [email protected]

Contact Ann Marie Balmaceda, our Family Liaison Orange Hunt ES for help.  [email protected]

PTA Events & Activities

OHES Upcoming Events and Deadlines  

OCTOBER

• October 23rd: Lantern orders for Laternenfest are due to PTA

RSVP for Lantern Supplies by October 23rd 

To ensure we send lantern supplies home with your child in advance and that refreshments are available for all: Fill out this form. https://forms.gle/MXUEX8jPnt4LcNwTA

Donations to make the day special are highly welcome: Sign up here. https://www.signupgenius.co/go/5080A49AAA92BA2FD0-51429371-ohes

NOVEMBER

• Thursday, November 14h: Laternenfest 6:30 p.m.

Meet at the main entrance of the school

The German tradition of Laternenfest honors the soldier Martin, who is remembered for his good deeds and compassion towards others. Children of the elementary school age walk along the streets holding colorful, often self-made lanterns, sing songs, and share treats.

• Saturday, November 16th: Pyramid Challenge (10-12:30)

This event is all about igniting a passion for running among our K-6 students and bringing our community together in a celebration of athleticism and teamwork.

 📆 Date: Saturday, November 16th 🕑 Time: 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM 📍 Location: Irving Middle School

For the safety and enjoyment of all, students must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Visit the Orange Hunt PTA website for all sponsored events and activity information and registrations.

Upcoming Events

October 31 - Two-hour early release - students dismiss at 1:30 

November 1 - Student Holiday

November 18- Three Hour early release 12:30

November 21 - Make-up Picture Day (more information to follow later)

November 27-29 - No School Thanksgiving break

Your Partners In Education

We are in this together!!  We are thankful to have the opportunity to work with your family this year and will work every day to ensure a safe and positive learning environment for your child. Please contact us when there is a question or concern. Thank you for your support and being part of our team!

Your Partner Principals,

Karen Tuttle                     [email protected]

Kate Austin                      [email protected]

Heather Mathews            [email protected]

6820 Sydenstricker Road, Springfield, VA 22152 | Phone: 703.913.6800

Attendance: 703.913.6868 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

Check out what is happening at Orange Hunt this week:

Our students are thriving in their specials, where they explore PE, Art, German, Band, Strings, and Music. These classes give them opportunities to be creative, stay active, and develop new talents. Whether it’s mastering an instrument or expressing themselves through art, our students are always excited to learn. Each special helps enrich their education and provides valuable skills beyond the classroom.

Federal Impact Aid Survey - October 21st 

Please be sure to sign in your SIS ParentVUE account to complete this important survey.  

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is eligible for federal Impact Aid grants due to the federal presence in our area. The grants from these programs will become part of FCPS' general operating budget. They are critical to ensuring that students receive an excellent education. FCPS anticipates receiving approximately $4,000,000 in Impact Aid funds.

FCPS uses the survey for Federal Impact Aid to identify federally connected students. On October 21st, the survey will be made available to FCPS families. The survey is available online through ParentVue. Families without ParentVUE can request a paper copy of the survey from their child's school. FCPS staff will process the information with the utmost confidentiality. Any family who has not completed the survey online will receive a paper copy after November 12th.  PLEASE complete the survey online to help us save the paper!!! 

Click here to view the video on the Federal Impact Aid Survey. 

Attendance - Reporting Absences and Tardies

To report your child absent/tardy from school, please report absences through your SIS ParentVUE account, call, or email (reporting absences through Talking Points to the teacher is not official):

SIS ParentVUE: https://myparent.fcps.edu/login.xhtml

Attendance Line:  703-913-6868

Attendance Email:  [email protected] or [email protected]

To learn more about the impact of regular school attendance, please visit:  https://www.fcps.edu/about-fcps/policies-regulations-and-notices/attendance-policies/absences-add/encouraging-school-0 .

Celebrating the Power of School Lunches

Multiple studies show that school lunches are important in supporting overall student health by improving students’ diets and combating food insecurity. Students who eat school lunches consume more fruit, vegetables, and fiber than their peers. 

This School Lunch Week, FCPS Food and Nutrition Services’ (FNS) reminds families that they are dedicated to providing flavorful, healthy, sustainable, and student-focused meals. New menu items have been launched this year based on student feedback. 

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

On Wednesday, October 16, all school cafeterias will participate in “X Marks the Tray.” Lucky students will find a sticker that has been placed randomly on the bottom of a hot entree container. This can be redeemed for our popular whole grain, reduced sugar sweet treat at the end of the lunch period. 

Encourage students to check their entree containers for a sticker after eating, and bring the container to staff at the cafeteria line by the end of the lunch period to receive their sweet treat. 

Bike Rider Safety

We have many students who ride their bikes to school. Bike rider students should be reminded to walk their bikes at dismissal to avoid crashing into pedestrians on the paths.

Yearbooks Now on Sale

Yearbook now on sale! Use the link or QR code to purchase by December 31 for the early bird discount price of $16.00. Price increases to $20.00 on January 1, 2025.

Buy the Orange Hunt Yearbook

School ID Number: 724530

Military Service Band Members

CALLING ALL PARENTS WHO PLAY IN ONE OF THE MILITARY SERVICE BANDS!

If you are an Orange Hunt Elementary School parent who plays or played in one of the Military Service Bands, our Orange Hunt Band and Strings Programs could use your help!  We'd love to call on your musical expertise during the year for various musical volunteer opportunities!  Also, if you are available at ANY of the times that we are performing at the Veterans Day Celebration on Fri, Nov 8, we'd love to include you in any of the Band and Strings performances that day (We perform at 9:45-10:00; 11:45-12:00, and 1:45-2:00.) 

Completing this google form will provide our Instrumental Music teachers with a contact list of our Military Musicians:

Click here to be added to the Military Musician Roster. 

Our Band Director, Mrs. Fraedrich ([email protected]) will be contacting you!

Veteran Volunteer Sign up

Veteran Band Volunteers sign up

Art Station Volunteer Sign up for ALL Parents

Click this link to register for book club!  Click here to order your book. 

Spirit Days

Friday, October 18: Orange Hunt, Orange and Blue day 

Thursday, October 31: Story Book Character Day (no masks)

Early Release Monday's for Orange Hunt 12:30

October 21

November 18

February 10

March 10

April 21

May 12

Lost and Found

Please label your child's backpacks, lunchboxes, and coats/jackets. Items with names that are turned into the Lost and Found will be returned to the student's classroom!  

The Lost and Found may be checked on school days between 9 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Please check in at the main office and our staff will be happy to escort you to the Lost and Found. Students may check at any time during the school day with permission from their teacher.  

Lost and Found items will be donated to a local charity at the end of each grading quarter. The end of the quarter is quickly approaching!

Lost and found items will be bagged and donated on November 6th! 

Immunization Clinics 

Does your child need school-required immunizations? If so, please check out the options below.

Free Immunizations for All FCPS Students

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

• Monday, October 28, 3 to 7 p.m.

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 . 

PTA Events & Activities

OHES Upcoming Events and Deadlines  

• OCTOBER
• Tuesday, October 15th: Registration closes for Pyramid Challenge (see flier below)
• Wednesday, October 16th: Monthly PTA Meeting (7pm)
• Friday, October 18th: Fall Festival (6-8pm)
• October 23rd: Lantern orders for Laternenfest are due (see flier below)
• NOVEMBER
• Thursday, November 14h: Laternenfest 
• Saturday, November 16th: Pyramid Challenge

 

For the safety and enjoyment of all, students must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Visit the Orange Hunt PTA website for all sponsored events and activity information and registrations.

Everyone is welcome to join in this wonderful German tradition! Sign up by October 23rd to receive lantern supplies. We are also looking for volunteers and donations. Please visit: https://orangehuntpta.membershiptoolkit.com/laternenfest

For the safety and enjoyment of all, students must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Pyramid Challenge Fun Run

Pyramid Challenge, 11/16 from 10-12:30  

This is a FREE fun run open to all students from the elementary schools in the West Springfield High School pyramid. The run takes place at Washington Irving Middle School. Race length and start times vary by student grade. Registration closes on October 15th.

https://runsignup.com/Race/VA/Springfield/WestSpringfieldPyramidChallenge

Family Liaison Corner

Math is Everywhere! Talking to Your Children about Mathematics

Join the FCPS Elementary Math Team to discuss ways to engage your children in mathematics.

During our time together we will highlight books, games, and other materials that assist you in talking about mathematics with your child throughout the day.

Teaching math to your children doesn’t have to be intimidating. This webinar will provide concrete examples for caregivers with ideas to spark math joy.

October 18, 2024, 10-11:30 A.M.

Register Online 

Veterans Day Celebration – November 8

OHES Veterans Day Celebration is a much-anticipated event with our Owls.  It’s an opportunity to recognize the Military Veterans (Active Duty, Reservists, & Veterans) within our own community.  Our celebration is an interactive event where classes rotate between four “stations”:  Career, Bootcamp, Music Performance, & Art Station.  This event’s success depends on our volunteers.  Please read the descriptions below to find the right station to volunteer.  There is one station that is open to ALL parents. Please refer to the schedule below if you would like to volunteer during your student’s session.  Thank you for your support!

Grade Rotation Schedule 9-9:45 am: 5th grade 10- 10:45 am: 6th grade  11-11:45 am: 4th grade & K (Lacich & Ryan) 12-12:45 pm: 2nd grade & K (Trinh & Gray) 1-1:45 pm: 1st grade 2-2:45 pm: 3rd grade *Art Zone*:  This is a new volunteer station open to all parents.  Join Ms. Kieffer in assisting students in creating their Veterans Day craft.  Click here to sign up for Art Volunteers *Military Band*:  Another new Veteran Volunteering opportunity.  If you are an Orange Hunt Elementary School parent who plays or played in one of the Military Service Bands, our Orange Hunt Band and Strings Programs could use your help!  We'd love to call on your musical expertise during the year for various musical volunteer opportunities!  Also, if you are available at ANY of the times that we are performing at the Veterans Day Celebration on Fri, Nov 8, we'd love to include you in any of the Band and Strings performances that day (We perform at 9:45-10:00; 11:45-12:00, and 1:45-2:00.)  Click here to sign up for Veteran Band Volunteers

Military Career:  The Veteran Volunteer will tell their group of kids two truths & one lie about your military career while you are/were in service.  The students will attempt to guess the lie & your occupation.  Veterans should be prepared to talk for 2-3 minutes.  Click here for Military Career Volunteer Boot Camp:  Military Volunteers will be assisting the PE team in welcoming students.  One volunteer will briefly explain the importance of physical fitness in the military.  The most important part of this job is to cheer on the students while they go through the obstacle course.  High-fives are encouraged. Click here for Boot Camp Volunteer For any questions or concerns please contact Anne-Marie Balmaceda [email protected]

Parent Book Club – November 21st, 5:30-7pm – Room 109 - Yardsticks by Chip Wood Orange Hunt Elementary is excited to announce our first Parent Book Club.  The first book selection is Yardsticks by Chip Wood.  You are encouraged to read the book before the meeting.  Engage with Ms. Tuttle, Ms. Mathews, & fellow OHES parents as discuss student’s social & academic behavior.  Click here to register OHES PARENT BOOK CLUB.  Click here to purchase your copy of Yardsticks by Chip Wood.

Contact Ann Marie Balmaceda, our Family Liaison Orange Hunt ES for help.  [email protected]

Outstanding Employee Awards

Help us recognize the outstanding employees at Orange Hunt!

Outstanding Employee Awards nominations will be open beginning October 18th and end on November 1st. Nominations are accepted for the following roles:

• Outstanding Teacher
• Outstanding New Teacher
• Outstanding Principal (principal only)
• Outstanding Leader (includes APs)
• Outstanding Professional Employee
• Outstanding Operational Employee

Please follow the link to nominate beginning October 18th.  

Upcoming Events

October 18 - PTA sponsored Fall Festival (6-8 must have an adult to attend)

October 21 - Three-hour early release - students dismiss at 12:30

October 31 - Two-hour early release - students dismiss at 1:30 

November 1 - Student Holiday

November 21 - Make-up Picture Day (more information to follow later)

Your Partners In Education

We are in this together!!  We are thankful to have the opportunity to work with your family this year and will work every day to ensure a safe and positive learning environment for your child. Please contact us when there is a question or concern. Thank you for your support and being part of our team!

Your Partner Principals,

Karen Tuttle                     [email protected]

Kate Austin                      [email protected]

Heather Mathews            [email protected]

6820 Sydenstricker Road, Springfield, VA 22152 | Phone: 703.913.6800

Attendance: 703.913.6868 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

Check out what is happening at Orange Hunt this week:

Our second grade students are bubbling with excitement as they dive into their butterfly unit in science!  Check out the amazing progress their caterpillars are making as they transform before our eyes!

Federal Impact Aid Survey - October 18th 

More information to come!  Please be sure to sign in your SIS ParentVUE account to complete this important survey.  

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is eligible for federal Impact Aid grants due to the federal presence in our area. The grants from these programs will become part of FCPS' general operating budget. They are critical to ensuring that students receive an excellent education. FCPS anticipates receiving approximately $3,000,000 in Impact Aid funds.

FCPS uses the survey for Federal Impact Aid to identify federally connected students. On October 18th, the survey will be made available to FCPS families. The survey is available online through ParentVue. Families without ParentVUE can request a paper copy of the survey from their child's school. FCPS staff will process the information with the utmost confidentiality.

Bike Rider Safety

We have many students who ride their bikes to school. Bike rider students should be reminded to walk their bikes at dismissal to avoid crashing into pedestrians on the paths.

Lost and Found

Please label your child's backpacks, lunchboxes, and coats/jackets. Items with names that are turned into the Lost and Found will be returned to the student's classroom!  

The Lost and Found may be checked on school days between 9 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Please check in at the main office and our staff will be happy to escort you to the Lost and Found. Students may check at any time during the school day with permission from their teacher.  

Lost and Found items will be donated to a local charity at the end of each grading quarter. The end of the quarter is quickly approaching!

Health Room News 

It’s October and the Health Room will be conducting Hearing and Vision Screening for all Kindergarteners, 3rd graders, and any students new to the county. If you have questions, please call the health room at 703-913-6810.

Immunization Clinics 

Does your child need school-required immunizations? If so, please check out the options below.

Free Immunizations for All FCPS Students

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 to 7 p.m.

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 . 

Yearbooks Now on Sale

Yearbook now on sale! Use the link or QR code to purchase by December 31 for the early bird discount price of $16.00. Price increases to $20.00 on January 1, 2025.

Buy the Orange Hunt Yearbook

School ID Number: 724530

District-Wide Virtual Lexia Core5 & PowerUp Parent Information Night

Want to learn more about Lexia® Core5 & Lexia® PowerUp? Join Lexia® Learning for a parent information night to learn how FCPS is using Lexia® Core5 and Lexia® PowerUp in classrooms across the district to support students' Literacy growth. Topics to be covered during this session include: What is Lexia Core5 and PowerUp and how do the programs support your student's individual learning needs? How does Lexia support teacher planning and instruction? Also included are extra tips for supporting your student.

For more information, contact Theresa Lieteau.

October 15, 2024 6:30-7:30

November 19, 2024 6:30-7:30

December 5 6:30-7:30

Register Here

Spirit Days

Friday, October 11: Orange Hunt, Orange and Blue day 

Early Release Monday's for Orange Hunt 12:30

October 21

November 18

February 10

March 10

April 21

May 12

PTA Events & Activities

Fall Festival

The leaves are changing, the air is crisp, and it's time for our much-anticipated Fall Festival! Mark your calendars for a night filled with fun, food, and festivities on Friday, October 18th from 6:00pm - 8:00pm.

At our festival, attendees will delight in unlimited games, savor the sweetness of cotton candy & popcorn, get creative with crafts, enjoy treats, and dance the night away with music and a silent auction.  

Admission: $10 per person and children 3 and under free with a $40 max per family.  Cost for admission will increase at the door!  Orange Hunt Elementary School staff and their families are $5 per family member.  Each admission includes a wristband for unlimited games.  The games are carnival themed and have prizes galore!     Food available for purchase: (Limited food will be available for purchase at the event.  If you want to guarantee food, please preorder!)  The food trucks this year will be Bratworks and 7 Starr BBQ for hot food options for purchase, as well as the frozen cotton candy truck.  The food options the PTA will be providing are listed below.  Food prices will be higher at the event so order now so you can ensure your family is fed!

Pre-order and Pay for Admission here or visit our website https://orangehuntpta.org  select 'My Account' then 'Make a Purchase or Join PTA'.

And there's more! We're inviting our wonderful community of parents to contribute to this event's success. If you can donate, lend items, or volunteer your time, your support will truly make a difference.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20F0549AAAB2FA1FE3-50922208-fall#/

Donate for the Silent Auction:

Kindergarten:  Arts & Crafts Orange Hunt PTA: Kindergarten Arts and Crafts Themed Silent Auction Basket (signupgenius.com)         1st:  Ice Cream Social  Orange Hunt PTA: 1st Grade Ice Cream Social Themed Silent Auction Basket (signupgenius.com)         2nd:  Book Lovers  Orange Hunt PTA: 2nd Grade Book Lovers Themed Silent Auction Basket (signupgenius.com)         3rd:  Camping/Cookout  Orange Hunt PTA: 3rd Grade Camping/Cookout Themed Silent Auction Basket (signupgenius.com)         4th:  Baking Party  Orange Hunt PTA: 4th Grade Baking Party Themed Silent Auction Basket (signupgenius.com)         5th:  Movie Night  Orange Hunt PTA: 5th Grade Movie Night Themed Silent Auction Basket (signupgenius.com)         6th:  Game Night  Orange Hunt PTA: 6th Grade Game Night Themed Silent Auction Basket (signupgenius.com)  

For the safety and enjoyment of all, students must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Visit the Orange Hunt PTA website for all sponsored events and activities.

Everyone is welcome to join in this wonderful German tradition! Sign up by October 23rd to receive lantern supplies. We are also looking for volunteers and donations. Please visit: https://orangehuntpta.membershiptoolkit.com/laternenfest

For the safety and enjoyment of all, students must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Pyramid Challenge Fun Run

Pyramid Challenge, 11/16 from 10-12:30  

This is a FREE fun run open to all students from the elementary schools in the West Springfield High School pyramid. The run takes place at Washington Irving Middle School. Race length and start times vary by student grade. Registration closes on October 15th.

https://runsignup.com/Race/VA/Springfield/WestSpringfieldPyramidChallenge

Family Liaison Corner

Benchmark Advance: the New K-6 Language Arts Curriculum

Join us for an overview of the new K-6 language arts curriculum. This will include background information regarding the Benchmark Advance and how this program is organized to ensure evidence-based literacy instruction for all K-6 students.

Webinar Highlights:

• What is evidence-based literacy instruction?
• What is The Benchmark Advance and its cross-curricular units?
• Provided scaffolds and supports for students with disabilities

Join the FCPS Instructional Services Department and FCPS Office of Special Education Instruction for this important webinar.

October 9, 2024, 10-11:30 a.m.

Register Online

Math is Everywhere! Talking to Your Children about Mathematics

Join the FCPS Elementary Math Team to discuss ways to engage your children in mathematics.

During our time together we will highlight books, games, and other materials that assist you in talking about mathematics with your child throughout the day.

Teaching math to your children doesn’t have to be intimidating. This webinar will provide concrete examples for caregivers with ideas to spark math joy.

October 18, 2024, 10-11:30 A.M.

Register Online 

Contact Ann Marie Balmaceda, our Family Liaison Orange Hunt ES for help.  [email protected]

Outstanding Employee Awards

Help us recognize the outstanding employees at Orange Hunt!

Outstanding Employee Awards Nominations will be open beginning October 18th and will end on November 1st.  Nominations are accepted for the following roles:

• Outstanding Teacher
• Outstanding New Teacher
• Outstanding Principal (principal only)
• Outstanding Leader (includes APs)
• Outstanding Professional Employee
• Outstanding Operational Employee

Stay tuned for the link to the Google form to make your nominations for our outstanding employees! 

Upcoming Events

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

October 14, is a student holiday and staff development day for Indigenous Peoples' Day.

October 21 - Three-hour early release - students dismiss at 12:30

October 31 - Two-hour early release - students dismiss at 1:30 

November 1 - Student Holiday

Your Partners In Education

We are in this together!!  We are thankful to have the opportunity to work with your family this year and will work every day to ensure a safe and positive learning environment for your child. Please contact us when there is a question or concern. Thank you for your support and being part of our team!

Your Partner Principals,

Karen Tuttle                     [email protected]

Kate Austin                      [email protected]

Heather Mathews            [email protected]

6820 Sydenstricker Road, Springfield, VA 22152 | Phone: 703.913.6800

Attendance: 703.913.6868 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

Check out what is happening at Orange Hunt this week:

We had a wonderful celebration for Orange Hunt's 50th anniversary! The event was filled with joy and community spirit as we came together to mark this special milestone. Attendees enjoyed fantastic music, explored artifacts from our school's history, and, of course, shared a delicious cake to commemorate the occasion. It was a beautiful day of reflecting on our school's rich past and looking forward to many more years of excellence. Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make the day unforgettable!  An extra special thank you to our PTA and in particular to Ms. Dreyer for helping to organize this event.

A Special Guest

We were honored to have a special guest, Springfield District Supervisor Pat Herrity, join us to celebrate Orange Hunt's 50th anniversary! Supervisor Herrity recognized our school’s incredible milestone with a formal resolution, highlighting the impact Orange Hunt has had on our community over the past five decades. It was a meaningful moment that added even more significance to our celebration. Thank you to Supervisor Herrity and everyone who made this event a memorable one!

FCPS Strives to Become Purple Star School Division to Support Military Families

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid, who is from a military family, has established a goal for FCPS to become a Purple Star Division — with 100% of our schools earning their Purple Star Designation — by the 2026-27 school year. Virginia’s Purple Star Designation recognizes schools for excelling in their support of military-connected students. 

The division has 69 current Purple Star Schools and expects approximately 33 schools to earn or renew their Purple Star status this year. Read more about our Purple Star Division plan.

Orange Hunt Elementary School is a Purple Star School! 🗓️ Calendar Reminders: Rosh Hashanah/Teacher Workday

Thursday, October 3, is a holiday for all FCPS staff. Schools and offices will be closed for Rosh Hashanah.

Rosh Hashanah begins at sundown on Wednesday, October 2. That day is an evening-only observance day. Important events will not be held after school.

Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is one of Judaism’s holiest days. Meaning “head of the year” or “first of the year,” the festival begins on the first day of Tishrei, the seventh month of the Hebrew calendar, which falls during September or October. Rosh Hashanah commemorates the creation of the world and marks the beginning of the Days of Awe, a 10-day period of introspection and repentance that culminates in the Yom Kippur holiday, also known as the Day of Atonement. 

Friday, October 4, is a teacher workday, and there will be no school for students. 

Health Room News 

It’s October and the Health Room will be conducting Hearing and Vision Screening for all Kindergarteners, 3rd graders, and any students new to the county. If you have questions, please call the health room at 703-913-6810.

Immunization Clinics 

Does your child need school-required immunizations? If so, please check out the options below.

Free Immunizations for All FCPS Students

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

• Tuesday, October 8,  3-7 p.m.

• Saturday, October 12, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

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 . 

Yearbooks Now on Sale

Yearbook now on sale! Use the link or QR code to purchase by December 31 for the early bird discount price of $16.00. Price increases to $20.00 on January 1, 2025.

Buy the Orange Hunt Yearbook

School ID Number: 724530

District-Wide Virtual Lexia Core5 & PowerUp Parent Information Night More Information

Want to learn more about Lexia® Core5 & Lexia® PowerUp? Join Lexia® Learning for a parent information night to learn how FCPS is using Lexia® Core5 and Lexia® PowerUp in classrooms across the district to support students' Literacy growth. Topics to be covered during this session include: What is Lexia Core5 and PowerUp and how do the programs support your student's individual learning needs? How does Lexia support teacher planning and instruction? Also included are extra tips for supporting your student.

For more information, contact Theresa Lieteau.

October 15, 2024 6:30-7:30

November 19, 2024 6:30-7:30

December 5 6:30-7:30

Register Here

Spirit Days

Friday, October 11: Orange Hunt, Orange and Blue day 

Parent University October 7th Sign up now!

Links below: October 7th

Parent University RSVP 

Parent University Babysitting Service 

Early Release Monday's for Orange Hunt 12:30

October 21

November 18

February 10

March 10

April 21

May 12

PTA Events & Activities

• After School Club Registration
  • Registration is open for after school clubs:  STEM exCEL Computer & Coding, Art Club, STEAM Art Club, RunFitKidz, Chess Club, and Kinderchor!  We also have Overtime Athletics available on early release days. 
  • Chess Club is in danger of cancellation. We need just a few more students to register in order to offer the club. Please consider joining this great activity!
• • Art Club on Tuesdays also has many openings for the fall session of Comic Book Illustration

Fall Festival

The leaves are changing, the air is crisp, and it's time for our much-anticipated Fall Festival! Mark your calendars for a night filled with fun, food, and festivities on Friday, October 18th from 6:00pm - 8:00pm.

At our festival, attendees will delight in unlimited games, savor the sweetness of cotton candy & popcorn, get creative with crafts, enjoy treats, and dance the night away with music and a silent auction.  

Admission: $10 per person and children 3 and under free with a $40 max per family.  Cost for admission will increase at the door!  Orange Hunt Elementary School staff and their families are $5 per family member.  Each admission includes a wristband for unlimited games.  The games are carnival themed and have prizes galore!     Food available for purchase: (Limited food will be available for purchase at the event.  If you want to guarantee food, please preorder!)  The food trucks this year will be Bratworks and 7 Starr BBQ for hot food options for purchase, as well as the frozen cotton candy truck.  The food options the PTA will be providing are listed below.  Food prices will be higher at the event so order now so you can ensure your family is fed!

 

Pre-order and Pay for Admission here or visit our website https://orangehuntpta.org  select 'My Account' then 'Make a Purchase or Join PTA'.

And there's more! We're inviting our wonderful community of parents to contribute to this event's success. If you can donate, lend items, or volunteer your time, your support will truly make a difference.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20F0549AAAB2FA1FE3-50922208-fall#/

Donate for the Silent Auction:

Kindergarten:  Arts & Crafts Orange Hunt PTA: Kindergarten Arts and Crafts Themed Silent Auction Basket (signupgenius.com)         1st:  Ice Cream Social  Orange Hunt PTA: 1st Grade Ice Cream Social Themed Silent Auction Basket (signupgenius.com)         2nd:  Book Lovers  Orange Hunt PTA: 2nd Grade Book Lovers Themed Silent Auction Basket (signupgenius.com)         3rd:  Camping/Cookout  Orange Hunt PTA: 3rd Grade Camping/Cookout Themed Silent Auction Basket (signupgenius.com)         4th:  Baking Party  Orange Hunt PTA: 4th Grade Baking Party Themed Silent Auction Basket (signupgenius.com)         5th:  Movie Night  Orange Hunt PTA: 5th Grade Movie Night Themed Silent Auction Basket (signupgenius.com)         6th:  Game Night  Orange Hunt PTA: 6th Grade Game Night Themed Silent Auction Basket (signupgenius.com)  

For the safety and enjoyment of all, students must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Visit the Orange Hunt PTA website for all sponsored events and activities.

  Laternenfest, 11/14 at 6:30pm

Everyone is welcome to join in this wonderful German tradition! Sign up by October 23rd to receive lantern supplies. We are also looking for volunteers and donations. Please visit: https://orangehuntpta.membershiptoolkit.com/laternenfest

 

Pyramid Challenge Fun Run

Pyramid Challenge, 11/16 from 10-12:30  

This is a FREE fun run open to all students from the elementary schools in the West Springfield High School pyramid. The run takes place at Washington Irving Middle School. Race length and start times vary by student grade. Registration closes on October 15th.

https://runsignup.com/Race/VA/Springfield/WestSpringfieldPyramidChallenge

Family Liaison Corner

Benchmark Advance: the New K-6 Language Arts Curriculum

Join us for an overview of the new K-6 language arts curriculum. This will include background information regarding the Benchmark Advance and how this program is organized to ensure evidence-based literacy instruction for all K-6 students.

Webinar Highlights:

• What is evidence-based literacy instruction?
• What is The Benchmark Advance and its cross-curricular units?
• Provided scaffolds and supports for students with disabilities

Join the FCPS Instructional Services Department and FCPS Office of Special Education Instruction for this important webinar.

October 8, 2024, 6:30-8 p.m.

October 9, 2024, 10-11:30 a.m.

Register Online

Math is Everywhere! Talking to Your Children about Mathematics

Join the FCPS Elementary Math Team to discuss ways to engage your children in mathematics.

During our time together we will highlight books, games, and other materials that assist you in talking about mathematics with your child throughout the day.

Teaching math to your children doesn’t have to be intimidating. This webinar will provide concrete examples for caregivers with ideas to spark math joy.

October 18, 2024, 10-11:30 A.M.

Register Online 

Contact Ann Marie Balmaceda, our Family Liaison Orange Hunt ES for help.  [email protected]

Outstanding Employee Awards

Help us recognize the outstanding employees at Orange Hunt!

Outstanding Employee Awards Nominations will be open beginning October 18th and will end on November 1st.  Nominations are accepted for the following roles:

• Outstanding Teacher
• Outstanding New Teacher
• Outstanding Principal (principal only)
• Outstanding Leader (includes Aps)
• Outstanding Professional Employee
• Outstanding Operational Employee

Stay tuned for the link to the Google form to make your nominations for our outstanding employees! 

Upcoming Events

October 3 - Holiday Rosh Hashanah No School

October 4 - Teacher Workday - student holiday

October 7 - AAP Parent Information Meetings - 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. More information to follow.

October 14 - School Planning Day - student holiday

October 21 - Three-hour early release - students dismiss at 12:30

October 31 - Two-hour early release - students dismiss at 1:30 

November 1 - Student Holiday

Your Partners In Education

We are in this together!!  We are thankful to have the opportunity to work with your family this year and will work every day to ensure a safe and positive learning environment for your child. Please contact us when there is a question or concern. Thank you for your support and being part of our team!

Your Partner Principals,

Karen Tuttle                     [email protected]

Kate Austin                      [email protected]

Heather Mathews            [email protected]

6820 Sydenstricker Road, Springfield, VA 22152 | Phone: 703.913.6800

Attendance: 703.913.6868 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

Check out what is happening at Orange Hunt this week:

Thank you to everyone who joined us for Back to School Night! It was a wonderful evening filled with meaningful conversations, where teachers shared their plans for the year and connected with parents to build strong partnerships. We’re excited to work together to make this school year a great success!

Blue Star Week

Every year, approximately 600,000 military families — or roughly 33% of the All-Volunteer Force — relocate. Most of these families move to new duty stations, while some transition out of the military and others transition in. And most of these moves take place during the summer. While more than 70% of military families live off base in their local civilian communities, according to Blue Star Families' 2023 Military Family Lifestyle Survey, only 41% of military family respondents reported they felt a sense of belonging in their local community.

That’s why we’re declaring September 21st — 29th Blue Star Welcome Week! This exciting week is an opportunity for our community to welcome our military families and show them our appreciation for their service. Throughout the week FCPS will help ease their transition through events, messages, and actions of welcome, and opportunities to make meaningful connections. Learn more about how you can participate in Blue Star Welcome Week at bluestarwelcomeweek.org.

Spirit Wear - Deadline Extended!!! Tuesday, 9/24 - Spirit Wear Orders Due (Deadline Extended!)

 

 

Short-sleeve, long-sleeve, and hoodies are available for adults and kids! We have a special Kindergarteners shirt this year along with a 50th anniversary shirt. Shirts are available in multiple colors! We have extended the deadline to order. Order by Tuesday, September 24th!  https://stores.inksoft.com/ohe100/shop/home 

 

Language Arts Curriculum

This school year there are multiple changes in store for Language Arts curriculum, assessment, and intervention. This video from the Language Arts Office provides an overview of the changes for the 2024-2025 school year. Your child’s teacher will also share some brief information about this at Back to School Night on Thursday. We look forward to partnering with you throughout the year!

Literacy Back to School Night video

Spirit Days

Thursday, September 26 - Wear Blue or stars for Blue Star welcome week

Friday, September 27 - Orange and Blue Day, WSHS homecoming.  Swing by the parade and cheer them to victory!

FCPS Cell Phone Policy

📵 Phones Down, Engagement Up: FCPS Cell Phone Policy Keeping cell phones off during the school day helps students focus and learn. It also boosts positive social behavior. Review FCPS’ cell phone expectations by grade level with your child and help keep our classrooms free of distractions! If you need to reach your child during the school day, please call our 703-913-6800.  

Grades K-6

• Phones must be silenced and in backpacks for the duration of the school day. Cell phones may be used on campus before and after school only.
• Smart watches that serve a dual purpose may be worn, but the phone features (texting, Internet viewing, and calls) are to be off when phone use is prohibited.
• Students are prohibited from using phones, tablets, and other mobile devices in restrooms and locker rooms, unless there is a medical necessity or emergency.
• With the approval of the principal or their designee, teachers may allow usage of cell phones for instructional activities where they are the most appropriate tool; however, one-to-one FCPS devices should meet most needs.

Parent University October 7th Sign up now!

Links below: October 7th

Parent University RSVP 

Parent University Babysitting Service 

SEL Screener

Students to Be Surveyed on Social-Emotional Learning

FCPS is committed to supporting the mental wellness of all students. The Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener helps our students share their perspectives on how their schools and communities support them and help them develop the skills they need to succeed.

The screener is offered to all students in grades 3 through 12 in the fall and spring. It addresses skills such as achieving goals, understanding and managing emotions, establishing and maintaining relationships with adults and peers, and making responsible decisions. Students also share how successful their school and community are at making them feel valued, included, and supported. Screener data is used to plan programming for the division, schools, and individual students. 

After each screening, results will be available in the Documents tab of SIS ParentVUE and mailed to families who don’t have a ParentVUE account. For more information, please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage.

Families who wish to opt their child out may do so by completing the opt-out form in the Annual Notice packet or SIS ParentVUE. For more information, please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage or contact our front office. 

Please note that the SEL Screener is not the same as the anonymous Fairfax County Youth Survey, which will take place later this fall.

Supporting Your Child’s Mental Health

Children go through a lot of changes, and it can be hard to tell if their behavior is developmentally appropriate or if they could benefit from mental health support. It’s important to talk to your child and pay attention to their actions, especially these warning signs:

• Increased irritability, hyperactivity, energy, and/or aggressive behavior.
• Excessive sadness, hopelessness, or worries.
• Loss of appetite, or significant weight gain or loss.
• Lack of sleep or too much sleep.
• A decline in grades, school avoidance, or attendance concerns.
• Alcohol or drug use.
• Withdrawal from activities and/or friends and family. 
• Thoughts of harming themselves or others.

If you notice any of these warning signs or feel your child may be experiencing a mental health challenge, help is available. Please contact Robin Campbell, our school psychologist at 703-913-6800, to discuss your concerns and identify resources. Find additional ways to support your child’s wellness. 

If you or someone you care about is experiencing a mental health crisis such as thoughts of harming themselves or others, please take action right away. Call 988, go to the nearest emergency room, or contact the Sharon Bulova Center for Community Health Emergency Services at 703-573-5679.

Advanced Academic Updates

We will host two in-person information sessions on Monday, October 7th at 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. in room, 109. We will provide an overview of the Advanced Academic program within FCPS.  In addition, we will discuss the Referral and Screening process.  Learn about the levels of service and curriculum in grades K-6 as well as the referral process for Full-time service. Questions - please reach out to Jennifer Weis.

Outdoor Classroom Project 

We are excited to have Kathryn, a former OHES student, complete her Girl Scout Gold Award project at Orange Hunt. She is creating an outdoor classroom for our teachers and students to use during the school day. Please consider supporting her project!

Early Release Monday's for Orange Hunt 12:30

October 21

November 18

February 10

March 10

April 21

May 12

PTA Events & Activities

50th Anniversary Celebration - Monday, Sept 30th 4-5:30 p.m.

4pm - Join us at the main entrance (Door 1) for a dedication & check out Mrs. Bailey's collection of school artifacts.

5pm - Join us for cake & more!

 

 

Add to the 50th Anniversary Time Capsule!

Help create a new time capsule! Have your students complete the Time capsule worksheet and return it to their teacher or email it to the PTA at [email protected].

They will also be available on the day of the event.

• After School Club Registration
  • Registration is open for after school clubs:  STEM exCEL Computer & Coding, Art Club, STEAM Art Club, RunFitKidz, Chess Club, and Kinderchor!  We also have Overtime Athletics available on early release days. 
  • Chess Club is in danger of cancellation. We need just a few more students to register in order to offer the club. Please consider joining this great activity!

• • Art Club on Tuesdays also has many openings for the fall session of Comic Book Illustration

Visit the Orange Hunt PTA website for all sponsored events and activities.

Family Liaison Corner

Contact Ann Marie Balmaceda, our Family Liaison Orange Hunt ES for help.  [email protected]

October Webinars at the Family Resource Center SIBSHOPS: An Exciting, In-person Workshop for Brothers and Sisters of Children with Special Needs!

The Sibshop workshops are for children in grades 2-6 enrolled in Fairfax County Public Schools who have siblings with special needs. They will:

• Meet other siblings in a relaxed setting.
• Celebrate the many contributions made by brothers and sisters of children with special needs.
• Share sibling experiences and receive peer support.
• Play games and have fun!

October 4, 2024, 9 a.m.- noon 

Jim Scott Community Center 3001 Vaden Dr. Fairfax, VA 22031

Presented by FCPS School Social Work Services

Register Online

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

The Sibshop workshops are for children in grades 2-6 enrolled in Fairfax County Public Schools who have siblings with special needs. They will:

• Meet other siblings in a relaxed setting.
• Celebrate the many contributions made by brothers and sisters of children with special needs.
• Share sibling experiences and receive peer support.
• Play games and have fun!

October 4, 2024, 9 a.m.- noon 

Jim Scott Community Center 3001 Vaden Dr. Fairfax, VA 22031

Presented by FCPS School Social Work Services

Register Online

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

Attention FCPS parents!!! From the same people who brought you Sibshops, we are excited to introduce SibTeen!

SibTeen is a community-building group for Middle School siblings of children with disabilities. We have fun activities, both recreational and art-based, as well as discussion activities. It’s a unique opportunity for students to share about their lives and support each other while normalizing their life experiences. SibTeen is a place where participants will feel validated and understood and can build upon their community of support. And…. there will be food! 

October 4, 2024, 1-4 p.m.

Jim Scott Community Center  3001 Vaden Dr.  Fairfax, VA 22031

Presented by FCPS School Social Work Services

Register Online

Benchmark Advance: the New K-6 Language Arts Curriculum

Join us for an overview of the new K-6 language arts curriculum. This will include background information regarding the Benchmark Advance and how this program is organized to ensure evidence-based literacy instruction for all K-6 students.

Webinar Highlights:

• What is evidence-based literacy instruction?
• What is The Benchmark Advance and its cross-curricular units?
• Provided scaffolds and supports for students with disabilities

Join the FCPS Instructional Services Department and FCPS Office of Special Education Instruction for this important webinar.

October 8, 2024, 6:30-8 p.m.

October 9, 2024, 10-11:30 a.m.

Register Online

Math is Everywhere! Talking to Your Children about Mathematics

Join the FCPS Elementary Math Team to discuss ways to engage your children in mathematics.

During our time together we will highlight books, games, and other materials that assist you in talking about mathematics with your child throughout the day.

Teaching math to your children doesn’t have to be intimidating. This webinar will provide concrete examples for caregivers with ideas to spark math joy.

October 18, 2024 10-11:30 A.M.

Register Online 

Transitioning with confidence - Collaborating with the Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS)

DARS’ Division of Rehabilitative Services(DRS) works together with students, youth, families, schools and community agencies, and organizations to provide services that promote successful transitions from school to work and adult life.

DRS offers two sets of services to help students with disabilities move from school to post-school life: pre-employment transition services (Pre-ETS) and vocational rehabilitation (VR) transition services.

Supports available:

• Job Exploration
• Work-based Learning
• Education and Training Options
• Workplace Readiness
• Self-Advocacy

October 25, 2024 10-11:30 a.m.

Register Online

Upcoming Events

October 3 - Holiday Rosh Hashanah No School

October 4 - Teacher Workday - student holiday

October 7 - AAP Parent Information Meetings - 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. More information to follow.

October 14 - School Planning Day - student holiday

October 21 - Three-hour early release - students dismiss at 12:30

October 31 - Two-hour early release - students dismiss at 1:30 

November 1 - Student Holiday

Your Partners In Education

We are in this together!!  We are thankful to have the opportunity to work with your family this year and will work every day to ensure a safe and positive learning environment for your child. Please contact us when there is a question or concern. Thank you for your support and being part of our team!

Your Partner Principals,

Karen Tuttle                     [email protected]

Kate Austin                      [email protected]

Heather Mathews            [email protected]

6820 Sydenstricker Road, Springfield, VA 22152 | Phone: 703.913.6800

Attendance: 703.913.6868 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

Check out what is happening at Orange Hunt this week:

Our students and teachers are looking their best today.  Ready to smile and say CHEESE!  We love our picture day and the owls have dressed to impress today!

School Picture Day is Coming

📅 Date: Wednesday, September 18, 2024

📸 Pictures Available: Approximately two weeks after photo day

🛒 Pre-order Online: https://vando.imagequix.com/g1001153750#login

📧 Questions about Ordering? Email us at [email protected]

Language Arts Curriculum

This school year there are multiple changes in store for Language Arts curriculum, assessment, and intervention. This video from the Language Arts Office provides an overview of the changes for the 2024-2025 school year. Your child’s teacher will also share some brief information about this at Back to School Night on Thursday. We look forward to partnering with you throughout the year!

Literacy Back to School Night video

ATTENDANCE MATTERS

🍎 Make Every Day Count! The Importance of Attendance

As you plan upcoming trips and other family events, please remember the importance of sending your child to school every day. Review the FCPS School Year Calendar and try to plan any time away during breaks from school. 

Children who show up for school regularly develop fundamental reading and math skills while building a habit of good attendance that will carry them into college and careers. Research shows that children who were chronically absent (missing 18 days or more) in kindergarten and first grade were far less likely to read proficiently at the end of third grade.

Learn how families can help form good attendance habits.

Spirit Days

Friday, September 20 - Orange and Blue Day

Thursday, September 26 - Wear Blue or stars for Blue Star welcome week

Friday, September 27 - Orange and Blue Day, WSHS homecoming.  Swing by the parade and cheer them to victory@

FCPS Cell Phone Policy

📵 Phones Down, Engagement Up: FCPS Cell Phone Policy Keeping cell phones off during the school day helps students focus and learn. It also boosts positive social behavior. Review FCPS’ cell phone expectations by grade level with your child and help keep our classrooms free of distractions! If you need to reach your child during the school day, please call our 703-913-6800.  

Grades K-6

• Phones must be silenced and in backpacks for the duration of the school day. Cell phones may be used on campus before and after school only.
• Smart watches that serve a dual purpose may be worn, but the phone features (texting, Internet viewing, and calls) are to be off when phone use is prohibited.
• Students are prohibited from using phones, tablets, and other mobile devices in restrooms and locker rooms, unless there is a medical necessity or emergency.
• With the approval of the principal or their designee, teachers may allow usage of cell phones for instructional activities where they are the most appropriate tool; however, one-to-one FCPS devices should meet most needs.

Outdoor Classroom Project 

We are excited to have Kathryn, a former OHES student, complete her Girl Scout Gold Award project at Orange Hunt. She is creating an outdoor classroom for our teachers and students to use during the school day. Please consider supporting her project!

Early Release Monday's for Orange Hunt 12:30

October 21

November 18

February 10

March 10

April 21

May 12

Setting Limits and Dealing with Dramatic Resistance 

It's important to set limits, but sometimes when we try to set them, our kids don't follow them or it takes a tremendous amount of energy to enforce them.

In this webinar, you'll learn:

• How to set effective limits to reduce the likelihood of resistance
• How to deal with dramatic reactions that do occur -- in a way that boosts your influence and your child's resilience

Join Rachel Bailey, parenting expert and coach for this important webinar.

September 20, 2024, 10-11:30 a.m.

Register online

Volunteers Needed PTA Events & Activities

• THIS WEEK
• Wednesday, Sept 18: PTA Meeting at 7pm 
• Friday, Sept 20: Dinner on the Field from 5-7pm
• After School Club Registration
• Registration is open for after school clubs:  STEM exCEL Computer & Coding, Art Club, STEAM Art Club, RunFitKidz, Chess Club, and Kinderchor!  We also have Overtime Athletics available on early release days. 
• Chess Club is in danger of cancellation. We need just a few more students to register in order to offer the club. Please consider joining this great activity!

• Art Club on Tuesdays also has many openings for the fall session of Comic Book Illustration

FCPS Parent Resource Section

Need some help with school transition? Contact Ann Marie Balmaceda, our new Family Liaison Orange Hunt ES for help.  [email protected]

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

The Sibshop workshops are for children in grades 2-6 enrolled in Fairfax County Public Schools who have siblings with special needs. They will:

• Meet other siblings in a relaxed setting.
• Celebrate the many contributions made by brothers and sisters of children with special needs.
• Share sibling experiences and receive peer support.
• Play games and have fun!

October 4, 2024, 9 a.m.- noon 

Jim Scott Community Center 3001 Vaden Dr. Fairfax, VA 22031

Presented by FCPS School Social Work Services

Register Online

Blue Star Week

Every year, approximately 600,000 military families — or roughly 33% of the All-Volunteer Force — relocate. Most of these families move to new duty stations, while some transition out of the military and others transition in. And most of these moves take place during the summer. While more than 70% of military families live off base in their local civilian communities, according to Blue Star Families' 2023 Military Family Lifestyle Survey, only 41% of military family respondents reported they felt a sense of belonging in their local community.

That’s why we’re declaring September 21st — 29th Blue Star Welcome Week! This exciting week is an opportunity for our community to welcome our military families and show them our appreciation for their service. Throughout the week FCPS will help ease their transition through events, messages, and actions of welcome, and opportunities to make meaningful connections. Learn more about how you can participate in Blue Star Welcome Week at bluestarwelcomeweek.org.

Upcoming Events

September 18 - School Picture Day 

September 19- Back to School Night in person.  5:30-7:30 multiple sessions will be offered.  

October 3 - Holiday Rosh Hashanah No School

October 4 - Teacher Workday - student holiday

October 7 - AAP Parent Information Meetings - 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. More information to follow.

October 14 - School Planning Day - student holiday

October 21 - Three-hour early release - students dismiss at 12:30

October 31 - Two-hour early release - students dismiss at 1:30 

November 1 - Student Holiday

Want To Be Involved?

Visit the Orange Hunt PTA website for all sponsored events and activities.

Your Partners In Education

We are in this together!!  We are thankful to have the opportunity to work with your family this year and will work every day to ensure a safe and positive learning environment for your child. Please contact us when there is a question or concern. Thank you for your support and being part of our team!

Your Partner Principals,

Karen Tuttle                     [email protected]

Kate Austin                      [email protected]

Heather Mathews            [email protected]

6820 Sydenstricker Road, Springfield, VA 22152 | Phone: 703.913.6800

Attendance: 703.913.6868 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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Check out what is happening at Orange Hunt this week:

Our students and teachers are full of enthusiasm as they engage in a range of enriching activities, from hands-on math centers and interactive read-aloud to literacy work with our new Benchmark series. The progress and joy we witness every day are truly exciting. We couldn’t do it without your support!

Parents Night Out Fundraier - This Friday!  This Friday, September 13th!!  Parents Night Out Fundraiser!

Enjoy an evening out! 

• Date: Friday, September 13th
• Drop off: 6:30pm
• Pick up: 8:30pm
• Price: $20 per child
• Location: Elite Martial Arts in Burke, 9568 Old Keene Mill Rd

All proceeds will go to the Orange Hunt ES PTA. Sign-ups are required for Elite Martial Arts (no at-the-door registration).

Not sure what to do with your free time? Join us at Glory Days Grill!  We have the backroom reserved just for us!  

Let us know you are coming so we can order enough appetizers! (Glory Days RSVP)

School Picture Day is Coming

📅 Date: Wednesday, September 18, 2024

📸 Pictures Available: Approximately two weeks after photo day

🛒 Pre-order Online: https://vando.imagequix.com/g1001153750#login

📧 Questions about Ordering? Email us at [email protected]

ATTENDANCE MATTERS

🍎 Make Every Day Count! The Importance of Attendance

As you plan upcoming trips and other family events, please remember the importance of sending your child to school every day. Review the FCPS School Year Calendar and try to plan any time away during breaks from school. 

Children who show up for school regularly develop fundamental reading and math skills while building a habit of good attendance that will carry them into college and careers. Research shows that children who were chronically absent (missing 18 days or more) in kindergarten and first grade were far less likely to read proficiently at the end of third grade.

Learn how families can help form good attendance habits.

CORRECTION! Late arrivals - 8:45 a.m. 

The Welcome Letter incorrectly noted the late bell time as 8:50. The correct time is 8:45.  Students who arrive after the bell rings at 8:45 are considered late to school and need to be signed in at the main office.  Thank you for understanding and forgive the misprint.  

Spirit Days

Wednesday, September 11 - Red, White and Blue

Friday, September 13 - Orange Hunt Spirit Day Orange and Blue.

Kiss & Ride Reminders

Below are the guidelines we ask you to follow to keep everyone safe at arrival and dismissal.

(8:20-8:45am & 3:35pm)

•Drop your child off only in the Kiss and Ride traffic pattern. Do not drop your child off on Sydenstricker Rd. or other areas around the school/neighborhood.

•Pull your car forward as far as possible in the line.

•Make sure that your child exits your car on the building side only. It is NOT okay to exit your car. 

•Do not pass other cars in line.

•Go directly to Sydenstricker Rd; do not use the bus access lane in front of the school.

FCPS Cell Phone Policy

📵 Phones Down, Engagement Up: FCPS Cell Phone Policy Keeping cell phones off during the school day helps students focus and learn. It also boosts positive social behavior. Review FCPS’ cell phone expectations by grade level with your child and help keep our classrooms free of distractions! If you need to reach your child during the school day, please call our 703-913-6800.  

Grades K-6

• Phones must be silenced and in backpacks for the duration of the school day. Cell phones may be used on campus before and after school only.
• Smart watches that serve a dual purpose may be worn, but the phone features (texting, Internet viewing, and calls) are to be off when phone use is prohibited.
• Students are prohibited from using phones, tablets, and other mobile devices in restrooms and locker rooms, unless there is a medical necessity or emergency.
• With the approval of the principal or their designee, teachers may allow usage of cell phones for instructional activities where they are the most appropriate tool; however, one-to-one FCPS devices should meet most needs.

Early Release Monday's for Orange Hunt 12:30

September 16

October 21

November 18

February 10

March 10

April 21

May 12

Setting Limits and Dealing with Dramatic Resistance 

It's important to set limits, but sometimes when we try to set them, our kids don't follow them or it takes a tremendous amount of energy to enforce them.

In this webinar, you'll learn:

• How to set effective limits to reduce the likelihood of resistance
• How to deal with dramatic reactions that do occur -- in a way that boosts your influence and your child's resilience

Join Rachel Bailey, parenting expert and coach for this important webinar.

September 20, 2024, 10-11:30 a.m.

Register online

Volunteers Needed OHES Spirit Wear - DEADLINE 9/17!! 

The PTA is excited to offer a variety of Spirit Wear options this Fall, including:

• T-shirts and sweatshirts offered in a variety of colors.
• For the first time, we are offering an OHES Kindergarten shirt.  
• We are excited to offer a special 50th anniversary OHES shirt.
• The sale will be ending on Tuesday, September 17th.
• Funds raised through this sale will benefit the students of OHES.  

Safety Drills

Keeping students and staff safe is a priority for FCPS. Each school has an emergency preparedness plan to respond to incidents such as fires and tornadoes. Schools are required by state law to practice emergency drills, including lockdown drills, each year. Schools are also required to notify parents and guardians at least 24 hours before a school conducts a lockdown drill. However, schools are not required to give the specific date and time of the drill in advance. 

The first lockdown drill of the school year must take place within the first 20 days of school. Preschool and kindergarten students are exempt from practicing the first lockdown drill. 

Your child may come home and talk about their experience during the drill. We encourage you to talk with your child about the importance of being prepared for emergencies. Please review these frequently asked questions to support your students before and after school lockdown drills.

⚠️ Know Our Security Terms

FCPS uses specific terminology to describe the actions school staff and students should take to ensure safety in a variety of situations. It is important for staff, families, and students to understand what the different terms mean and how they impact school operations.

Watch this video to learn about safety terms including lockdown; secure the building; and stay put, stay tuned. 

If students, staff, or community members have a safety concern at school (that is not an immediate emergency), they should submit a tip to the FCPS Safety Tipline. In an emergency, please call 9-1-1. 

FCPS Parent Resource Section

Need some help with school transition? Contact Ann Marie Balmaceda, our new Family Liaison Orange Hunt ES for help.  [email protected]

Upcoming Events

September 16- 3-hour Early Release 12:30

September 18 - School Picture Day 

September 19- Back to School Night in person.  5:30-7:30 multiple sessions will be offered.  More information to follow.

October 7 - AAP Parent Information Meetings - 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. More information to follow. 

Want To Be Involved?

Visit the Orange Hunt PTA website for all sponsored events and activities.

Your Partners In Education

We are in this together!!  We are thankful to have the opportunity to work with your family this year and will work every day to ensure a safe and positive learning environment for your child. Please contact us when there is a question or concern. Thank you for your support and being part of our team!

Your Partner Principals,

Karen Tuttle                     [email protected]

Kate Austin                      [email protected]

Heather Mathews            [email protected]

6820 Sydenstricker Road, Springfield, VA 22152 | Phone: 703.913.6800

Attendance: 703.913.6868 | Web | Twitter | Facebook