What happens if my child has to switch to virtual learning at any point during the year?

We have been working to get laptops out to every student and having them practice logging into their computers, Google, and Schoology. If we do have to switch to a learning from home model for any reason, students will access their class materials and meetings through Schoology, the county’s learning management system. Schoology will have our class Zoom link, our daily assignments, and links to any other resources that students may need access to through the day. Parents also have access to their child’s Schoology Courses; using the same information you use for your SIS ParentVue accounts.

What will 6th graders learn this year?

You can find an overview of our learning topics at this link: Sixth Grade Year-at-a-Glance.

6th graders will be switching classes this school year. Who will be teaching what subject?

We are very excited to have the opportunity to give our students the chance to switch classes this year. Ms. Greene will be teaching Math, Mr. Nokoich will be teaching History/Science and Mrs. Willis will be teaching writing. Your child will learn reading with their homeroom teacher. If you ever have any questions regarding a specific subject, please contact the teacher who is teaching that particular subject.

My child has been given a laptop from the school. what are the directions for them using this device?

All sixth grade students were assigned a laptop this school year. They were also given a charger and a carrying case. We ask that these laptops go back and forth between home and school every day. We also ask that students make sure to charge their laptops each night to ensure they are ready for the school day. Laptops are for school related items only.

What supplies does my child need for school this year?

Your child needs to have a three-subject notebook for each of the core classes (Math, History/Science, Writing). They will also need two folders (one for Math and one for Reading). We also asked for each child to bring two containers of Clorox/Lysol wipes, one box of tissues, their own scissors, pencils, and markers/colored pencils. Since their backpacks will house most of their items, a pencil box/pouch of some sort may be helpful to keep their supplies organized. Please be aware that as our supply of Clorox/Lysol wipes start to run low, teachers may send an email asking for more for the classrooms.

Does my child have to complete community service hours this year?

Fairfax County has always asked 6th graders to complete five hours of community service during the school year. These hours are normally met by doing patrol jobs, helping out teachers and other students, etc. However, with the current circumstances, these hours are not a requirement this year. If your child would like to perform service hours, they are always more than welcome.

Will my child have any field trip opportunities this year?

Due to the current circumstances, we are unsure of field trips at this time. Normally, 6th graders visit an art museum in Washington DC (planned through the county), the Woodson HS Planetarium, and visit their future middle schools. Field trips will likely be planned for the spring if we do them.

How is advanced math being taught this year?

FCPS is moving towards a new model of instruction, which includes differentiating all learners, in heterogeneous groups. We will be following this new model in 6th grade this year. During math, students will participate in a workshop model that will allow two curriculums to be taught simultaneously. Students will be engaged in mini-lessons, partner work, math games, critical thinking activities and independent work during their math blocks. Classwork and homework assignments will be assigned daily to track student progress in the concepts taught. It is imperative that your child keep up with these assignments in Schoology.

When is the date of the 6th Grade Promotion Ceremony and End of Year Party?

The ceremony and party will take place on the same day this school year, June 9th. Times and locations are still to be determined. We wanted you to have the date as early as possible. The end of the year party is a parent planned event. If you have any questions regarding this, please don’t hesitate to contact your child’s teachers.

What is FCPS Portrait of a Graduate (POG)?

In Fairfax County Public Schools we aim to prepare students for a global world by prioritizing the development of skills that will empower students to be productive citizens of a global community and successful in the workforce of the future. To learn more about FCPS POG click here.