FCPS

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Important Dates:

Friday, October 29th: End of Quarter, 2-hour early release

Monday and Tuesday, November 1st and 2nd: Student Holidays (Teacher Workdays)

Thursday, November 11th: Veteran’s Day, 2-hour early release 

Monday, November 15th: Adjusted schedule with block 4 first.

Picture Day(s) October 21st-22nd

During PE class

Photos can be ordered here: https://vando.imagequix.com/g1000875821

The photographers have asked for a couple of parents to help with traffic flow. Please review the available slots to sign up. VOS, our photography vendor, has offered to provide parent volunteers with a free photo package for giving your time! 

Spirit Week

Oct. 25-29th

2021 Impact Aid Form - Needed for each student

The 2021 Impact Aid Form has been sent home with your student this week. Please complete, sign, date, and return the survey to your child's Lion Time teacher. If sections 1 and 2 of the survey do not apply to you, just check the boxes in Section 3 and sign/date the form. All forms must be signed, dated, and returned by Friday, November 5th. All results are confidential. 

The Impact Aid Program is a federal program designed to directly compensate local school districts that have been financially impacted by federal activities. The program’s mission is to reimburse local school districts for local revenues lost due to the presence of federally owned, and therefore tax-exempt, property.

Veteran’s Day Event 2021 

Early release at 12:15

Join us for an entertaining afternoon to celebrate our Veterans. This event will be held in the Cooper cafeteria from 2:00-3:30 on Thursday, November 11th. After a performance by the Air Force Band, students and parents will be designing cards, letters, and artwork that will be given to Veterans. Supplies are provided for everyone so all students need to bring is a parent/guardian/adult!

Register using this Google Form. Students can earn service hours for this event by entering them into x2VOL.  

Volunteers Needed

The hearing and vision test is given to all 7th graders at Cooper M.S. We are in need of volunteers to assist with administering the screenings through our PE classes on Thursday, Nov. 18, and Friday, Nov. 19.  Please visit the schedule to sign up for a time slot.

Late Arrivals - Unexcused Tardies

While we recognize the beginning of the school year requires an adjustment to morning routines, we are well into the school year and students who arrive late miss valuable class instruction.   Beginning the second quarter, students who are late to school (unexcused) three times within the quarter will meet with their grade-level administrator, and be assigned an after-school detention for any subsequent tardy.  As a reminder, Kiss and Ride opens at 7AM. 

(Students who ride the school bus are excused tardy if there is a bus delay.)

Lost and Found

At the end of every quarter, we will begin donating lost and found items that are not claimed. If your student misplaced a water bottle, sweatshirt, or other items, please make sure your child claims their items from the lost and found located in the school cafeteria. 

977 Balls Hill Road, McLean, VA 22101 |  Main Phone: 703.442.5800
Attendance: 703.442.5858 | Student Services: 703.442.5812 | Web | Twitter

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FCPS is celebrating Digital Citizenship Week from October 18-22, 2021. This year’s theme is Social Emotional Learning in our Digital Lives!  Students will receive Digital Citizenship lessons through their Block 4 class on Monday and Wednesday and optional daily activities will be posted in the Cooper Corner course. 

Each days’ lesson or activities support a daily question about being a digital citizen.

 

Student Daily Focus Question

Parent Resource

Monday

Self-Awareness

How can I navigate the pressures of social media?

Help Kids Post, Comment, and Upload Responsibly 

Tuesday

Self-Management

How can I practice healthy media habits?

Help Kids Balance Their Media Lives 

Wednesday

Responsible Decision-Making

How can I make responsible choices when communicating online?

Help Boost Kids' Safety, Privacy, and Security 

Thursday

Relationship Skills

How does technology affect my friendships?

Help Kids Make Friends and Interact Safely Online

Friday

Social Awareness

How can I respond to digital drama when I see it happen?

Help Kids Fight Cyberbullying and Other Mean Online Behavior  

On the evening of Friday, October 22 students and families are encouraged to practice media balance by taking a break from screens to engage in real-world experiences and quality time with their family. 

Try some of these ideas:

• Have a device-free dinner and focus on connecting as a family. The #DeviceFreeDinner campaign by Common Sense Media comes with a wonderful 3-page Family Starter Kit that includes tips for getting started, a printable Family Commitment Pledge, and even a printable sign for designating the place (e.g., basket, box) families will place their devices during dinner. The Family Dinner Project also has a wealth of great conversation starters geared towards children of different ages.
• Have a family board game night instead of playing video games or watching TV.
• Make a phone call or write a letter to a family member or friend instead of sending a text or email.
• Spend time outside as a family and leave the phone behind.

FCPS has also developed a Digital Citizenship Online Course for Families with Teens. This four-module online course has been developed for parents/guardians and their teen(s) in grades 7 and up. After viewing the Introduction, parents should start with Module 1: Parents Only and then use Modules 2 - 4 with their teen(s). Modules 2 - 4 are designed to support family conversations about the topics related to digital citizenship. Families are encouraged to work through the course at their own pace and complete any module or activity of interest. While these modules won’t teach you everything you need to know, they provide a solid foundation upon which your family can build.

For more resources on digital citizenship click on the link below.

FCPS Digital Citizenship: Families

977 Balls Hill Road, McLean, VA 22101 |  Main Phone: 703.442.5800
Attendance: 703.442.5858 | Student Services: 703.442.5812 | Web | Twitter

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2021 Impact Aid Form - Needed for each student

The 2021 Impact Aid Form will be sent home with your student this week. Please complete and return the form as soon as you can as it is time sensitive. 

The Impact Aid Program is a federal program designed to directly compensate local school districts that have been financially impacted by federal activities. The program’s mission is to reimburse local school districts for local revenues lost due to the presence of federally owned, and therefore tax exempt, property.

Volunteers Needed: Vision and Hearing Screeners

We are very happy to be able to allow parent volunteers in school! The hearing and vision test is given to all 7th graders in FCPS. We are in need of volunteers to assist with administering the screenings through our PE classes on Thursday, Nov. 18, and Friday, Nov. 19.  If you are able to, please sign up for a time slot at the following link: 

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20F0A49A8AC2CA7FF2-cooper3

Book screeners

Cooper’s English department has 44 new book club books! These are new titles that will appeal to students, that are relatable to our times, are written by diverse authors, and fit within the FCPS Grade 7 and 8 English curriculum. The books need to be approved at the school level.  FCPS policy 3005.9 – Program and Supplemental Instructional Print Materials identification, Evaluation, and Approval – states that schools may approve supplemental material for local use through an Instructional Materials Review Committee (IMRC).  The IMRC consists of one administrator, two teachers, and two parents. In this case, this is a small number of people dealing with a large number of books. The committee must read the books and the teacher’s rationale in order to be approved.  Instead of asking two parents to read all 44 titles, we are suggesting an ADOPT-A-BOOK program to spread out the workload. The books will be used this winter, and with so many books, we need to get started.  Here is how it will work:

• Open the SIGN-UP GENIUS link HERE.
• Select the book(s) you are interested in reading and evaluating
• You may select a title if you have read it in the past
• We will loan you a copy of the book  and a copy of the rationale form for you to approve
• After you read the book, sign to approve
• Return the completed form back to Leslie Psaltis, Cooper Head Librarian 
• The deadline for returning the forms (and loaned books) is December 10, 2021

 Thank you for your assistance with this task!

Lost and Found

At the end of every quarter, we will donate lost and found items that are not claimed. If your student misplaced a water bottle, sweatshirt, or other items, please ensure your child claims their belongings from the lost and found located in the school cafeteria before October 29th. 

Parent Resources provided by FCPS: Rewriting Your Parenting Story: A Webinar for Families

No one's parenting journey goes the way they expect. But do you feel like your story has gotten away from you? Take back the narrative of your parenting.​

After this webinar, you will have the script for a new, hope-filled story.

Webinar Highlights:

• The importance of curiosity and ‘hearing’ our children.
• The strength of the repair.
•  The ‘Reset’. When we find ourselves in a rut, this is a great place to start.

Presented by Mary Smith, a local Parenting Coach. 

Friday October 15, 2021, 10-11:30 a.m.

Register for Rewriting Your Parenting Story: A Webinar for Families

Moving onto Life in the Community Virtual Resource Fair

This resource fair assists parents, guardians, and caretakers with future planning for students with intellectual disabilities who may require ongoing supports after graduating from high school. Participants include representatives from vocational, residential, leisure, recreational, independent living, and advocacy programs.  

Tuesday, October 19, 2021, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Register for Moving onto Life in the Community Virtual Resource Fair

Considerations for Students with Disabilities in the College Search and Beyond

Career and Transition Services is offering a workshop highlighting issues to consider in the college search, application, and preparation process for students with disabilities on October 19, 2021, from 7-8 p.m.  (Part of the FCPS Virtual College Week)

Registration coming soon:  https://www.fcps.edu/resources/college-and-career-planning

977 Balls Hill Road, McLean, VA 22101 |  Main Phone: 703.442.5800
Attendance: 703.442.5858 | Student Services: 703.442.5812 | Web | Twitter

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Parents,

A reminder that tomorrow, Monday, October 11th is a student holiday, teacher workday. The FCPS calendar is available online at: https://www.fcps.edu/calendars/standard-school-year-calendar 

Take care.

Cooper Middle School

977 Balls Hill Road, McLean, VA 22101 |  Main Phone: 703.442.5800
Attendance: 703.442.5858 | Student Services: 703.442.5812 | Web | Twitter

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

Reminder: Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener

On Friday, September 10th, an eNotify was shared with families in regards to the SEL Screener that will be administered at Cooper on Thursday, October 14th during block 4.  Families  can review additional information on the FCPS website: https://www.fcps.edu/node/43892.  Parents who wish to opt their child out of participating in the SEL Screener, should complete the opt-out form and return it to their child’s counselor no later than October 12th.

World Language Credit Exam

Registration for this year’s World Language Credit Exam is open until Wednesday, October 13, 2021 at 4 p.m.  Late registrations will not be accepted.

World Language Credit Exam information can be accessed at: https://www.fcps.edu/academics/high-school-academics-9-12/world-languages/credit-exam-world-languages

To register, students should stop by to see their school counselor (4th block would be a great time to do this!). Please review the available Credit Exam Dates, Times and Testing Sites with your student before they see their counselor:

• November 16, 2021 - Robinson Secondary School (Blue) Cafeteria - 4:00 - 7:45 p.m.
• November 17, 2021 - Centreville High School Cafeteria - 4:00 - 7:45 p.m.
• November 18, 2021 - Edison High School Cafeteria - 4:00 - 7:45 p.m.

School Counselors:

Laura Wiley (7th grade students with last names A-K)

Jill Donnelly (7th grade students with last names L-Z)

Keyosha Lewis (8th grade students with last names A-K)

Michele Saint Germain (8th grade students with last names L-Z)

PART-TIME PARENT LIAISON

Parent liaisons work in the schools and community to help families get the information and assistance they need to support their children and to ensure their academic success. The parent liaisons represent a variety of cultures, languages, and races. Parent liaisons will welcome and orient families who are new to the school and community, and help them understand the school's culture, policies, procedures, and practices. They can also help connect families to resources in the community. Parent liaisons might also assist a family in transitioning to a new school and encourage parent involvement to help ensure their student's success.

This role will be split equally between Cooper and Churchill Road Elementary, a total of 28 hours per week.

If interested, please send resumes to Aubrey Midgley.

Pre order Your Yearbook

Buy your yearbook for the discounted price of $40 today! Prices increase throughout the year. Go to yearbookordercenter.com and enter school code 5267 to purchase. 

We are looking for any "first day" of school photos and summer photos for the yearbook! Please email any photos to cooperyearbook@gmail.com. Include your students' first/last name, grade, and a brief description of the photo.

Want  to see your child in the yearbook??

Parents, please use eShare or email photos of your student to cooperyearbook@gmail.com. Include your student’s whole name, grade, and a brief description of photo.

We are looking photos of what your student does outside of school…sports, family, celebrations, community service, holidays, hobbies, etc.

977 Balls Hill Road, McLean, VA 22101 |  Main Phone: 703.442.5800
Attendance: 703.442.5858 | Student Services: 703.442.5812 | Web | Twitter

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AM Arrival Reminders

As a reminder, the Kiss and Ride opens for student drop off at 7:00AM to support the increase in car traffic this year.  If a student is dropped off at Cooper between 7:00AM and 7:10AM, they must report to the cafeteria.  At 7:10AM, students can report to their first block class.  

We are also requesting your assistance if you use Kiss and Ride to ensure students are dropped off at Cooper no later than 7:25AM.  This will ensure that your student is on time and prepared for their first block, which begins promptly at 7:30AM.

Family Digital Wellness: What is our Next Normal: A Webinar for Families

Do you know a child, teen, or young adult in your life who is struggling with their media use? The Clinic for Interactive Media and Internet Disorders (CIMAID) is here to help!

Webinar Highlights

• Ages and Stages How Media and Technology affects your child at each stage of their development
• Types of Media and Technology: Different Types of Devices, Apps, and platforms used by children and families
• Health Effects: How your child's media use affects their wellbeing and development

The CIMAID team can help you address and reduce the negative consequences of Problematic Interactive Media Use (PIMU), while helping the children, adolescents, and young adults in your life adopt and sustain healthy lifestyles and behaviors.

Join Kristelle Lavallee Collins, MA, Senior Content Strategist from The Digital Wellness Lab.

Friday, October 1, 2021, 10-11:30 a.m.

Register for Family Digital Wellness: What is our Next Normal: A Webinar for Families

World Language Credit Exam

Registration for this year’s World Language Credit Exam is open until Wednesday, October 13, 2021 at 4 p.m.  Late registrations will not be accepted.

World Language Credit Exam information can be accessed at: https://www.fcps.edu/academics/high-school-academics-9-12/world-languages/credit-exam-world-languages

To register, students should stop by to see their school counselor (4th block would be a great time to do this!). Please review the available Credit Exam Dates, Times and Testing Sites with your student before they see their counselor:

• November 16, 2021 - Robinson Secondary School (Blue) Cafeteria - 4:00 - 7:45 p.m.
• November 17, 2021 - Centreville High School Cafeteria - 4:00 - 7:45 p.m.
• November 18, 2021 - Edison High School Cafeteria - 4:00 - 7:45 p.m.

School Counselors:

Laura Wiley (7th grade students with last names A-K)

Jill Donnelly (7th grade students with last names L-Z)

Keyosha Lewis (8th grade students with last names A-K)

Michele Saint Germain (8th grade students with last names L-Z)

Reminder: Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener

On Friday, September 10th, an eNotify was shared with families in regards to the SEL Screener that will be administered at Cooper on Thursday, October 14th during block 4.  Families  can review additional information on the FCPS website: https://www.fcps.edu/node/43892.  Parents who wish to opt their child out of participating in the SEL Screener, should complete the opt-out form and return it to their child’s counselor no later than October 12th.

977 Balls Hill Road, McLean, VA 22101 |  Main Phone: 703.442.5800
Attendance: 703.442.5858 | Student Services: 703.442.5812 | Web | Twitter

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

Once a month, parents are invited to join the Art Studio after school program. The next event will be Wednesday, September 29th 2:30-4:30. We will be making artist trading cards.

Parents must provide proof of having the COVID vaccine and wear a mask for the duration of their time on campus.

Please sign up in advance using the provided form and join your student in the art room. Parents RSVP'ing via the Google form does not replace their student having to sign up for the program as well. Students are directed to sign up during their lunch periods. 

977 Balls Hill Road, McLean, VA 22101 |  Main Phone: 703.442.5800
Attendance: 703.442.5858 | Student Services: 703.442.5812 | Web | Twitter

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Bus Notes

Reminder: students may only ride the bus associated with their home address. Transportation cannot accommodate additional students. If your student wishes to go home with a friend, please make alternate arrangements for them.

Weekly Progress Reports 

Please sign up for Weekly Progress Reports via SIS ParentVUE. All parents/guardians of MS and HS students who have registered for a SIS ParentVUE Account and have a primary email address recorded in SIS ParentVUE can receive Weekly Progress Reports via email. This report provides a summary of your student(s) grades for the current quarter.

To activate the Weekly Progress Reports via email, login to your SIS ParentVUE Account and first verify that you have a primary email address within the system. It is listed under the “My Account” tab. If it is blank, enter the email address where you would like to receive the progress reports and click on update account. Once confirmed, parents/guardians are able to activate and select their preferences for receiving these reports within the SIS ParentVUE “My Account” tab. Weekly progress reports for all of your middle and high school students will be included in

World Language Credit Exam

Deadline: October 13th.

Registration for this year’s World Language Credit Exam is open until Wednesday, October 13, 2021 at 4 p.m.  Late registrations will not be accepted.

World Language Credit Exam information can be accessed at: https://www.fcps.edu/academics/high-school-academics-9-12/world-languages/credit-exam-world-languages

To register, students should stop by to see their school counselor (4th block would be a great time to do this!). Please review the available Credit Exam Dates, Times and Testing Sites with your student before they see their counselor:

• November 16, 2021 - Robinson Secondary School (Blue) Cafeteria - 4:00 - 7:45 p.m.
• November 17, 2021 - Centreville High School Cafeteria - 4:00 - 7:45 p.m.
• November 18, 2021 - Edison High School Cafeteria - 4:00 - 7:45 p.m.

School Counselors:

Laura Wiley (7th grade students with last names A-K)

Jill Donnelly (7th grade students with last names L-Z)

Keyosha Lewis (8th grade students with last names A-K)

Michele Saint Germain (8th grade students with last names L-Z)

Reminder: Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener

Deadline: Oct. 12th

On Friday, September 10th, an eNotify was shared with families in regards to the SEL Screener that will be administered at Cooper on Thursday, October 14th during block 4.  Families  can review additional information on the FCPS website: https://www.fcps.edu/node/43892.  Parents who wish to opt their child out of participating in the SEL Screener, should complete the opt-out form and return it to their child’s counselor no later than October 12th.

977 Balls Hill Road, McLean, VA 22101 |  Main Phone: 703.442.5800
Attendance: 703.442.5858 | Student Services: 703.442.5812 | Web | Twitter

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

Daily Essentials 

There is a high demand for additional masks during the day, please ensure your student has extra masks for after lunch and PE.

Additionally, students need to have a reusable water bottle to fill throughout the day. Water fountains are to be used as filling stations only throughout FCPS this year as part of the layered prevention strategy.

World Language Credit Exam

Registration for this year’s World Language Credit Exam is open and closes on Wednesday, October 13, 2021 at 4 p.m.  Late registrations will not be accepted.

World Language Credit Exam information can be accessed at: https://www.fcps.edu/academics/high-school-academics-9-12/world-languages/credit-exam-world-languages

To register, students should stop by to see their school counselor (4th block would be a great time to do this!). Please review the available Credit Exam Dates, Times and Testing Sites with your student before they see their counselor:

• November 16, 2021 - Robinson Secondary School (Blue) Cafeteria - 4:00 - 7:45 p.m.
• November 17, 2021 - Centreville High School Cafeteria - 4:00 - 7:45 p.m.
• November 18, 2021 - Edison High School Cafeteria - 4:00 - 7:45 p.m.

School Counselors:

Laura Wiley (7th grade students with last names A-K)

Jill Donnelly (7th grade students with last names L-Z)

Keyosha Lewis (8th grade students with last names A-K)

Michele Saint Germain (8th grade students with last names L-Z)

Back to School Anxiety

The return to school is often accompanied by a myriad of emotions…excitement, nervousness, anxiety, you name it! And certainly, this year is no exception.

Recognizing that we all may be a little more anxious than usual, the Safe Community Coalition (SCC) is proud to offer an online panel discussion with local mental health professionals Jennifer Weaver, Mimi Weisberg, and Robyne Davis on Tuesday, September 21 at 7 p.m. The panel will discuss Back to School Anxiety and offer concrete ways you can help get the school year off to a great start.  The link to the FREE webinar can be found on the SCC website http://mcleanscc.org/

Science Olympiad Tryouts Calling all Scientists and Engineers!

Cooper’s Science Olympiad team tryouts are on September 22nd, 27th, and 29th. You can find out more about this exciting after school club on Cooper’s Science Olympiad website.  Students can sign up for a try-out spot with their school account by completing the Google form on the website.  

*You must complete the form to try out. Walk-ins will not be accommodated. 

Pre order Your Yearbook

Buy your yearbook for the discounted price of $40 today! Prices increase throughout the year. Go to yearbookordercenter.com and enter school code 5267 to purchase. 

We are looking for any "first day" of school photos and summer photos for the yearbook! Please email any photos to cooperyearbook@gmail.com. Include your students' first/last name, grade, and a brief description of the photo.

977 Balls Hill Road, McLean, VA 22101 |  Main Phone: 703.442.5800
Attendance: 703.442.5858 | Student Services: 703.442.5812 | Web | Twitter

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

Back to School Night

Thursday, September 9th from 6 to 8pm using Schoology and Zoom.  To prepare for our virtual Back to School Night you will need to:

1. Confirm that you have a SIS ParentVue account and make sure you can log into SIS ParetVue successfully.  If you need a SIS ParentVue account, please fill out the Parent Support Request.
2. Using your SIS ParentVue credentials make sure that you can log into Schoology at lms.fcps.edu and that you can see your child’s courses. (It takes an overnight process once you create your SIS ParentVue account before you can access Schoology.)
3. Download and install Zoom on your laptop or computer.

• Please make sure to watch this video to familiarize yourself with how you will access your child’s classes in Schoology and locate the Zoom links on Thursday.

The detailed schedule for our virtual Back to School Night is as follows:

• Block 1 6:00 - 6:20 (Includes message from School Board & Principal)
• Block 2 6:23 - 6:33
• Block 3 6:36 - 6:46
• Block 4 6:49 - 6:59 (Includes message from administrators & counselors)
• Block5 7:02 - 7:12
• Block 6 7:15 - 7:25
• Block 7 7:28 - 7:38
• Block 8 7:41 - 7:51

Cooper staff will be available to help troubleshoot in the Back to School Night Zoom Help Desk linked here starting at 5:30 PM.

FLE Preview

Sept. 9th 5:30pm

Before BTSN, there will be a half hour optional Parent Preview meeting with Ms. Sandridge (FLE Lead Teacher) to review the Family Life Education (FLE) Middle School Curriculum.  A program overview for each grade level is available on the FCPS website.  If you would like to attend, please use the Zoom link in Schoology for the 5:30om meeting.  

Science Olympiad Tryouts Calling all Scientists and Engineers!

Cooper’s Science Olympiad team tryouts are on September 22nd, 27th, and 29th. You can find out more about this exciting after school club on Cooper’s Science Olympiad website.  Students can sign up for a try-out spot with their school account by completing the Google form on the website.  

*You must complete the form to try out. Walk-ins will not be accommodated. 

Cooper Student Accomplishments

Hridhaan Banerjee (7th grader at Cooper) won the National Science Bee 2021 (Sixth grade) competition. The regional competition was held online in May this year, and the nationals was hosted in Arlington on  September 3rd. Hridhaan’s calm and focused demeanor avoided any negative scoring in the finals, and helped him win the competition. 

Early Check-Out Procedure

If your student will be leaving school early for an appointment, please follow this procedure:

• Your student should go to the office when they arrive at school with a note from the parent with dismissal time and reason for early check out.
• Your student will be given a pink pass that they can show to the teacher to be dismissed from class at the appropriate time.
• Parents should come to the front office at the designated time with a picture ID to check out the student.
• If the student returns to school, they should come to the front office (parent does not need to accompany them) and check in, then they will proceed to class.

Pre order Your Yearbook

Buy your yearbook for the discounted price of $40 today! Prices increase throughout the year. Go to yearbookordercenter.com and enter school code 5267 to purchase. 

We are looking for any "first day" of school photos and summer photos for the yearbook! Please email any photos to cooperyearbook@gmail.com. Include your students' first/last name, grade, and a brief description of the photo.

Back to School Anxiety

The return to school is often accompanied by a myriad of emotions…excitement, nervousness, anxiety, you name it! And certainly, this year is no exception.

Recognizing that we all may be a little more anxious than usual, the Safe Community Coalition (SCC) is proud to offer an online panel discussion with local mental health professionals Jennifer Weaver, Mimi Weisberg, and Robyne Davis on Tuesday, September 21 at 7 p.m. The panel will discuss Back to School Anxiety and offer concrete ways you can help get the school year off to a great start.  The link to the FREE webinar can be found on the SCC website http://mcleanscc.org/

977 Balls Hill Road, McLean, VA 22101 |  Main Phone: 703.442.5800
Attendance: 703.442.5858 | Student Services: 703.442.5812 | Web | Twitter

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

This year Cooper will be hosting a virtual Back to School Night on Thursday, September 9th from 6 to 8pm using Schoology and Zoom.  To prepare for our virtual Back to School Night you will need to:

1. Confirm that you have a SIS ParentVue account and make sure you can log into SIS ParetVue successfully.  If you need a SIS ParentVue account, please fill out the Parent Support Request.
2. Using your SIS ParentVue credentials make sure that you can log into Schoology at lms.fcps.edu and that you can see your child’s courses. (It takes an overnight process once you create your SIS ParentVue account before you can access Schoology.)
3. Download and install Zoom on your laptop or computer.

• Please make sure to watch this video to familiarize yourself with how you will access your child’s classes in Schoology and locate the Zoom links on Thursday.

The detailed schedule for our virtual Back to School Night is as follows:

• Block 1 6:00 - 6:20 (Includes message from School Board & Principal)
• Block 2 6:23 - 6:33
• Block 3 6:36 - 6:46
• Block 4 6:49 - 6:59 (Includes message from administrators & counselors)
• Block5 7:02 - 7:12
• Block 6 7:15 - 7:25
• Block 7 7:28 - 7:38
• Block 8 7:41 - 7:51

Cooper staff will be available to help troubleshoot in the Back to School Night Zoom Help Desk linked here starting at 5:30 PM.

FLE Preview 

Sept. 9th 5:30pm

Before BTSN, there will be a half hour optional Parent Preview meeting with Ms. Sandridge (FLE Lead Teacher) to review the Family Life Education (FLE) Middle School Curriculum.  A program overview for each grade level is available on the FCPS website.  If you would like to attend, please use the Zoom link in Schoology for the 5:30pm meeting.  

977 Balls Hill Road, McLean, VA 22101 |  Main Phone: 703.442.5800
Attendance: 703.442.5858 | Student Services: 703.442.5812 | Web | Twitter

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

Upcoming Dates

Friday, September 3rd- Monday September 6th: Holiday- Labor Day Break

Thursday, September 9th- Back to School Night (Virtual)

Weather Reminder

With remnants of storm “Ida” approaching our area and heavy tropical rains throughout tomorrow, we want to remind students to bring an umbrella or have a hooded top when traveling to/from South Manor.  Additionally, students will eat in the cafeteria, library and surrounding halls during lunch to accommodate additional space for eating without masks.

Back to school night 

September 9th 6-8pm

This year Cooper will be hosting a virtual Back to School Night on Thursday, September 9 from  6 to 8pm using Schoology and Zoom.  To prepare for our virtual Back to School Night you will need to:

1. Confirm that you have a SIS ParentVue account and make sure you can log into SIS ParetVue successfully.  If you need a SIS ParentVue account please fill out the Parent Support Request
2. Using your SIS ParentVue credentials make sure that you can log into Schoology at lms.fcps.edu and that you can see your child’s courses.( It takes an overnight process once you create your SIS ParentVue account before you can access Schoology)
3. Download and install Zoom on your laptop or computer.

Watch this video to familiarize yourself with how you will access your child’s classes in Schoology and locate the Zoom links on September 9th.

Student Rights & Responsibilities

Students will be engaging in lessons and reviewing the Student Rights and Responsibilities in the coming weeks.  Parents/Guardians are requested to acknowledge receipt of the SR&R in ParentVue in your child’s SIS account.  If preferred, parents/guardians can download the signature sheet (pg. 3) and return it to the school.  This is required annually for all students.

More information on Students Rights and Responsibilities can be found here.

Student Dress Code Reminders

FCPS and Cooper Middle School respects students’ right to express themselves in the way they dress. It is important, however, that their appearance is appropriate for a K-12 school setting. We request that students adhere to the FCPS dress code and appreciate you reinforcing this with your child.  Please also remind your students to wear appropriate footwear and clothing for days that they have PE class, including a second mask should they need one.

Early Check-Out Procedure

If your student will be leaving school early for an appointment, please follow this procedure:

• Your student should go to the office when they arrive at school with a note from the parent with dismissal time and reason for early check out.
• Your student will be given a pink pass that they can show to the teacher to be dismissed from class at the appropriate time.
• Parents should come to the front office at the designated time with a picture ID to check out the student.
• If the student returns to school, they should come to the front office (parent does not need to accompany them) and check in, then they will proceed to class.

977 Balls Hill Road, McLean, VA 22101 |  Main Phone: 703.442.5800
Attendance: 703.442.5858 | Student Services: 703.442.5812 | Web | Twitter

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We had a great week at Cooper and hope that your child has come home excited about being back at school!

As we continue to prioritize student health and safety, our administrators boarded each school bus today to remind students of the importance of mask wearing from the time they board the school bus until the time they return home to their front door (with the exception of eating/drinking at lunch and when outdoors).  Teachers in block 7 also reviewed our layered prevention strategies including use of halls designated as one-way.  Please remind your child of the importance of wearing a mask and keeping to our one-way halls wherever possible.

Additionally, we are excited to reconnect and build relationships with all of our students.  Please be reminded that cells phones (and ear buds) are off and away for the day at Cooper.  We know that our students’ engagement increases when they are free from distractions.  Thank you for reinforcing this with your child.

Looking forward to a great year ahead!

Lisa Barrow

Principal, Cooper Middle School

Student Drop Off/Pick Up

Thank you for following staff direction at Kiss and Ride.  Each day our process has improved and is beginning to run smoothly.  Due to the volume of car traffic this year, we now plan to open the Kiss and Ride for student drop off at 7:00AM so that all students can be on time to first block classes.  Students who arrive early will wait in the cafeteria until 7:10AM when they can go to their first block of the day.  Please note that all staff outside are teachers and administrators whose goal is to ensure student safety by following the expectations set forth by FCPS Safety and Security.  We appreciate your cooperation and courtesy to ensure a safe arrival and dismissal.

977 Balls Hill Road, McLean, VA 22101 |  Main Phone: 703.442.5800
Attendance: 703.442.5858 | Student Services: 703.442.5812 | Web | Twitter

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

We have had a great first week back at Cooper!  The energy is palpable!  Our students have quickly located their classes, have spent time getting to know their teachers and classmates, and enjoyed the option of lunch outdoors.   We are looking forward to a great year together and appreciate the tremendous support of our community. 

Lisa Barrow

Principal, Cooper Middle School

Cooper Safety Drills

Keeping students and staff safe is a priority for all of us. We have a crisis management and emergency preparedness plan for our school that is reviewed and updated regularly. Our plan includes procedures on how to respond to incidents such as fires and tornadoes. Students and staff regularly practice these drills every school year. We also practice lockdown drills.

A new Virginia Law (22.1-137.2) requires schools to notify parents at least 24 hours before a school practices a lockdown drill. However, we are not required to share the exact date and time of the drill. We are required to practice lockdown drills two times a year. FCPS lockdown drills do not include any type of active shooter scenario training, they are instruction and classroom based. We will conduct a lockdown drill at our school soon. 

Additional information on our lockdown drill program to include parent tips and FAQs can be found on the Emergency Planning and Crisis Response web page. After reviewing this content, you should discuss the value of these safety drills with your child.

Keeping our school safe and secure for all students and staff involves the participation of the entire school community, and we thank you for your help to keep our school safe. 

Back To School Night

September 9th 6-8pm

This year Cooper will be hosting a virtual Back to School Night on Thursday, September 9th from 6 to 8pm using Schoology and Zoom.  To prepare for our virtual Back to School Night you will need to:

1. Confirm that you have a SIS ParentVue account and make sure you can log into SIS ParetVue successfully.  If you need a SIS ParentVue account please fill out the Parent Support Request
2. Using your SIS ParentVue credentials make sure that you can log into Schoology at lms.fcps.edu and that you can see your child’s courses.
3. Download and install Zoom on your laptop or computer.

We will send out more details about our virtual Back to School Night next week.

Pre order Your Yearbook

Buy your yearbook for the discounted price of $40 today! Prices increase throughout the year. Go to yearbookordercenter.com and enter school code 5267 to purchase. 

We are looking for any "first day" of school photos and summer photos for the yearbook! Please email any photos to cooperyearbook@gmail.com. Include your students' first/last name, grade, and a brief description of the photo.

977 Balls Hill Road, McLean, VA 22101 |  Main Phone: 703.442.5800
Attendance: 703.442.5858 | Student Services: 703.442.5812 | Web | Twitter

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

Good evening Cooper Families!  We are very excited to open our doors tomorrow and return to school five days strong!  Students will report to Block 1 and should have received an email with the teacher and room number.  Students will receive a copy of their schedule in their Block 1 classroom.  Please be reminded we anticipate a long Kiss/Ride line and ask that you plan accordingly for drop-off so that your student can be in our classrooms at 7:30 a.m. 

In this NYC:

• Daily Health Screening Questionnaire at Home
• Universal Mask Use
• School Forms
• Lunch
• Transportation/Bus Reminder
• Kiss/Ride Line

Screen for Illness Every Day Stay Home When Sick

• One of the most important prevention strategies guidelines is screening students daily for any signs of illness prior to leaving home for school. Any student who is ill or presents with COVID-like symptoms is to remain at home. The daily health screening questionnaire and all translated versions can be found on our Health and Safety Guidance document . This document provides the details of the policies and protocols related to COVID-19, and it is continually updated to align with public health guidance as it evolves during the school year. Daily completion of the health screening is done on an honor basis and does not need to be sent to the school.
• Read more about checking for symptoms and how to prepare to return to school after illness.

Masks

As a reminder,  masks are required for everyone, regardless of vaccination status, inside FCPS buildings and on buses.  This infographic provides you with the recommended masks.

School Forms

Thank you to the many parents who have already sent in their students’ forms. Forms can be delivered to the front office on the first day of school.

• Emergency Care Form
  • Required for ALL students annually. 
• Health Form
  • Only for students with medical concerns. 

• Parent Digital Tool Permission
  • Some of the digital resources your child may use this year require parental consent. You can complete the form here. 

•  2021 - 2022 Parent and/or Guardian SR&R Acknowledgement
  • Required for ALL students annually
  • After reviewing the information, sign the SR&R Parent Acknowledgement Form using this link. 

Lunch Updates

• Students will have the option to either eat in the newly renovated cafeteria or outside.
• All students will be offered no cost breakfast and lunch for the entire school year. Menus are available online.
• Masks will be worn while going through the serving line. 
• Students will be required to wear masks in the cafeteria when not actively eating and drinking.
• Students will put their mask back on when they finish their meal. 
• Cafeteria spaces will be regularly and thoroughly cleaned with a sanitizing solution. 

Transportation

As a reminder, FCPS will need to increase “double back” bus runs, meaning a bus is required to run two scheduled routes back to back that would normally have been covered by two separate buses. These “double backs” may impact delivery time to schools or bus stops and may have a domino effect throughout the day, affecting after-school drop-off times.

Currently, students on buses 3 and 21 will arrive at Cooper earlier than other buses due to the bus driver shortage.  These students will be greeted and welcomed into the cafeteria to wait until 7:10 a.m. when the doors open and students report to class.  After school, these same students will report to the cafeteria to wait for buses 3 and 21.

We ask families and students to have patience and flexibility at the start of the school year while we work through the issue. You can be prepared by checking the Here Comes the Bus (HCtB) app or FCPS School Bus Delays website for potential delays. Route information and transportation intent for your child is always available and current in your SIS ParentVue account.

Cooper Kiss and Ride Procedures 

Cooper’s Kiss and Ride plan is designed to help keep students safe, as well as maintain traffic flow during arrival/dismissal times.  Due to FCPS Department of Facilities renovations, the back of our campus is occupied with temporary Learning Cottages, referred to as “South Manor”.  Again for this year, Kiss and Ride drop-off and pick-up will occur in the back parking lot (previous tennis courts).  Please reference the map below.

It will be important to understand, follow, and adhere to the following procedures:

AM

• Kiss and Ride drop-off is located at the back of the school beginning at 7:10AM 

• Cars enter from Balls Hill Road, proceed straight, bear right around the building, and onto the Tennis Courts (behind the back parking lot). 
• There is a designated drop off zone where students disembark, walk between the B and C quads, proceed up the stairs, and enter at door number 6 (**New this year).  
• Note: After you have made the turn in the loop, please have students exit your vehicle on the right side (see map for the drop off location)
• Cars exit the parking lot at the location that they entered.  
• Access road (Dead Run) is closed during arrival and departures.
• Cars are not permitted in front of the school from 6:45 am - 7:30 am. 

PM

• Cars will use the same Kiss and Ride traffic loop for pickup.   
• Students will exit the school from door 5 and meet the vehicles at the car line

• There will be no parking or driving in the front parking lot from 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm. 

We need to do everything we can to guarantee the safety of our students.  Therefore, no students should ever be dropped off at the following locations:

• Dead Run
• Balls Hill Rd
• Georgetown Pike cross streets
• Parking lots and intersections that lead into the school. 

Staff members will be available to answer questions in regards to the procedures above.

We thank you in advance for your patience and cooperation as we work together to provide a safe and efficient system for dropping off and picking up students.

977 Balls Hill Road, McLean, VA 22101 |  Main Phone: 703.442.5800
Attendance: 703.442.5858 | Student Services: 703.442.5812 | Web | Twitter

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Save the Dates!

Please continue to save the dates for our upcoming back to school activities

• Student Orientation- Thursday, August 19th 9:00-11:00AM (details below)
• Student and Parent Open House- Thursday, August 19th 2:00-5:00PM (details below)
• First Day of School- Monday, August 23rd
• Back to School Night (Virtual)- Thursday, September 9th 

Parent Action Required Digital Resources at Cooper Middle School

Some of the digital resources your student may use this year require parental consent.  These tools have been carefully reviewed to ensure that they align with the FCPS Learning Model and FCPS conducts the same technical evaluations for all products that use student information.  Our teachers plan to integrate these tools to provide an engaging learning environment for all students. Not all students will use every program listed, still, please provide permission in the event a teacher uses the platform to support the curriculum being taught. 

Please view the information on our adopted digital resources on the Cooper website no later than Monday, August 23rd.  To provide your parental consent for each student in your family, please follow this link and follow the provided directions. 

School Supplies

There are a few items your student will need to get the school year started. Visit the School Supply page on the Cooper website.

Student Orientation

August 19, 2021 9:00AM-11:00AM

We are excited to welcome students and provide them with an opportunity to meet teachers, walk their schedule, and connect with peers.  Doors will open at 8:50AM and the program begins at 9:00AM  This programming is optional and for students only.   

Bus transportation is available from the following elementary schools for families that RSVP’d for the event.  If you did not previously RSVP for your student to attend this event, you will need to provide transportation to and from Cooper using the Kiss and Ride loop (details below).  

Open House for Students and Parents

August 19, 2021 2:00-5:00 PM.  

All Cooper students and parents are invited to come tour Cooper on Thursday, August 19 from 2PM-5PM.  Students and parents will have a chance to: 

• Walk their schedule with self-guided building tours
• Meet and greet with teachers and staff
• Complete required paperwork
• Obtain their FCPS laptop
• Connect with the Cooper PTO and purchase spirit wear.  
• Drop off medication to the clinic
• Bruster’s Ice Cream Truck on site!

In an effort to alleviate traffic congestion, we are encouraging families to attend during the following time slots and carpool to the greatest extent possible:

Medication Drop Off

The clinic will be open for medication drop off during the Cooper Open House on Thursday, August 19th from 2:00-5:00.  The medication authorization form can be found here.

Logging into Schoology

• Use your SIS/ParentVUE account to login to Schoology
• Use your SIS/ParentVUE login information to login to Schoology. Look for the FCPS logo to make sure you are on the right login page
• Learn more about Schoology
• Schoology Snippets (short videos on how to navigate Schoology)
• The Schoology Parent Resource Kit
• More information for families, including resetting passwords and to request technical support
• Students use their regular FCPS login information to login. Student resources for Schoology

Lunch Updates

• All students will be offered no cost breakfast and lunch for the entire school year. Menus will be available online beginning August 18.
• Students will be required to wear masks in the cafeteria when not actively eating and drinking.
• They will need to wear their masks while going through the serving line. 
• Students will put their mask back on when they finish their meal. 
• Cafeteria spaces will be regularly and thoroughly cleaned with a sanitizing solution. 
• Weather permitting, students will be allowed an outdoor option for lunch beginning on the first day. 

Cooper Kiss and Ride Procedures 

Cooper’s Kiss and Ride plan is designed to help keep students safe, as well as maintain traffic flow during arrival/dismissal times.  Due to FCPS Department of Facilities renovations, the back of our campus is occupied with temporary Learning Cottages, referred to as “South Manor”.  Again for this year, Kiss and Ride drop-off and pick-up will occur in the back parking lot (previous tennis courts).  Please reference the map below.

It will be important to understand, follow, and adhere to the following procedures:

AM

• Kiss and Ride drop-off is located at the back of the school beginning at 7:10AM 

• Cars enter from Balls Hill Road, proceed straight, bear right around the building, and onto the Tennis Courts (behind the back parking lot). 
• There is a designated drop off zone where students disembark, walk between the B and C quads, proceed up the stairs, and enter at door number 6 (**New this year).  
• Note: After you have made the turn in the loop, please have students exit your vehicle on the right side (see map for the drop off location)
• Cars exit the parking lot at the location that they entered.  
• Access road (Dead Run) is closed during arrival and departures.
• Cars are not permitted in front of the school from 6:45 am - 7:30 am. 

PM

• Cars will use the same Kiss and Ride traffic loop for pickup.   
• Students will exit the school from door 5 and meet the vehicles at the car line

• There will be no parking or driving in the front parking lot from 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm. 

We need to do everything we can to guarantee the safety of our students.  Therefore, no students should ever be dropped off at the following locations:

• Dead Run
• Balls Hill Rd
• Georgetown Pike cross streets
• Parking lots and intersections that lead into the school. 

Staff members will be available to answer questions in regards to the procedures above.

We thank you in advance for your patience and cooperation as we work together to provide a safe and efficient system for dropping off and picking up students.

977 Balls Hill Road, McLean, VA 22101 |  Main Phone: 703.442.5800
Attendance: 703.442.5858 | Student Services: 703.442.5812 | Web | Twitter

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

Laptop pick-up Thursday, August 12th.

We look forward to seeing you tomorrow if you choose to bring your student to pick up their laptop! The time is being adjusted to 3:00-5:00p.m.

Please reach out to the front office (Laurie Bennett) if you had planned to arrive at 2:00 and we will work to accommodate your need. 

As a reminder, laptops can be picked up on Thursday, August 19th during Open House. 

 

In an effort to alleviate traffic congestion, we are encouraging families to attend Open House on the 19th during the following time slots to the greatest extent possible:

977 Balls Hill Road, McLean, VA 22101 |  Main Phone: 703.442.5800
Attendance: 703.442.5858 | Student Services: 703.442.5812 | Web | Twitter

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

TGIF Cooper Community! 

In this special edition of NYC you can find the recording from the Parent Prep virtual session last night.  You will see information about:

• Cooper’s Mission, Vision, and Beliefs
• Cooper Prep
• Orientation & Open House
• Laptop Distribution/Forms
• Schoology, Instruction, Advisory block
• After School Programming
• Renovation & Returning 5 Days
• Health Guidance

https://cooperms.fcps.edu/announcements/cooper-parent-prep-recording

-Lisa Barrow, Proud Principal 

977 Balls Hill Road, McLean, VA 22101 |  Main Phone: 703.442.5800
Attendance: 703.442.5858 | Student Services: 703.442.5812 | Web | Twitter

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Opt-in for bus transportation 

On July 29, 2021, the Office of Transportation Services (OTS) will conduct a student ridership survey for all eligible riders. It is important that parents respond to the survey by August 4, 2021 and submit a separate survey for each of their children enrolled in FCPS. If the survey is not completed and returned, the student will not be added to a bus route at the beginning of the school year.

During the school year, changes to the intent form can be made by contacting  Cooper at: 703-442-5800, changes to transportation needs can take up to five days to update transportation schedules.

If you have any questions, please contact our school's transportation office, at Area 4 Transportation, 703-429-7100.  

Thank you! 

Activate Your Parent SIS Account 

Please activate your SIS Parent Account today! Your SIS Parent account will provide you with online access to update emergency contact information, connect with the school and teachers through Schoology, and review grades. If you do not yet have your SIS Parent account, request your activation key here: https://itweb.fcps.edu/ParentView/index.cfm

Only one request is needed per family as your account will allow you access to all of your children’s information. If you are not sure if you have activated your account or have forgotten your password, click the Forgot Password link here and enter your email address to reset your password: https://www.fcps.edu/resources/technology/password-management.

PARENT RESOURCE CENTER

The FCPS Parent Resource Center provides access to information and resources to support all families, educators, and students, including those with special needs, learning challenges, and disabilities

They also have free webinars every month. Registration opens one month before each webinar. Sign up for our New You Choose newsletter to get an email when registration opens. Registrants will be provided a link by email on the morning of the webinar.

Parent to Parent: Managing Expectations for our Next Normal

TUESDAY, AUGUST 10 2021 10-11:30 a.m.

Register for Parent to Parent: Managing Expectations for our Next Normal

Are you dealing with big emotions as you get ready to start the school year?  Let's talk about what we can be doing now to help our kids, and ourselves, get ready for the start of school. Are you searching for peer support, advice, encouragement, and resources? This webinar will offer families opportunities to learn from each other as they grow in their parenting skills. Guided by Mary Beth Harrison-Cunningham, Manager of the Parent Resource Center, and Erika Deem, a Parent Resource Center Liaison, families will exchange ideas and strategies as we navigate our next normal. 

Discussion Highlights: 

• End of the summer check-in
• Share concerns, worries for transitioning back to in-person learning
• Join us if you have any tips or resources that might be helpful for another family or if you want to get some ideas from others.

School Supplies

There are a few items your student will need to get the school year started. Visit the School Supply page on the Cooper website.

Remember to RSVP for the following events: Parent Prep Session 1-Thursday, August 5th 

Please join us as we kick-off our Parent Sessions  with the first session being held on Thursday, August 5th at 5PM.  This virtual session will provide parents with an introduction to our administrative and students services teams and will highlight the timely and relevant topics as we return to five days of in-person learning this school year.  Building and supporting a successful parent-school partnership remains a top priority at Cooper, so we hope you will join us.  Please RSVP using this form.  

Student Orientation August 19, 2021 9:00AM-11:00AM. 

Please RSVP BY August 9th

We are excited to welcome students and provide them with an opportunity to meet teachers, walk their schedule, and connect with peers on Thursday, August 19th from 9:00-11:00 AM.  This programming is optional and for students only.    

Buses will be provided to/from each elementary school parking lot listed below.  We strongly request that students attending orientation please take advantage of the shuttles provided to alleviate traffic back ups as Cooper is still under summer renovations.  Any students getting dropped off/picked up will be directed to the Kiss and Ride loop at the back of the building.   Buses will depart the elementary school locations at the following times and drop students back off at the elementary school by approximately 11:15-11:30 AM, depending on the distance from Cooper.

Please RSVP by Monday, August 9th by completing this form only if your student is planning to attend and identify which location they will shuttle from so we can plan accordingly.

Open House for Students and Parents August 19, 2021 2:00-5:00 PM.  

All Cooper students and parents are invited to come tour Cooper on Thursday, August 19 from 2PM-5PM.  Students and parents will have a chance to walk their schedule, meet their teachers, complete required paperwork, and purchase spirit wear from our PTO.  While students won’t be issued lockers this year, the Open House is an excellent opportunity to connect as a community.  In an effort to alleviate traffic congestion, we are encouraging families to attend during the following time slots to the greatest extent possible:

977 Balls Hill Road, McLean, VA 22101 |  Main Phone: 703.442.5800
Attendance: 703.442.5858 | Student Services: 703.442.5812 | Web | Twitter

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

Welcome to the 2021-2022 School Year!

In this week’s Cooper News You Choose, you will find detailed information on upcoming events and activities to welcome you and your student to the 2021-2022 school year.  Please mark your calendar for: 

• Virtual Cooper Prep- Available Monday, July 26th
• Parent Prep Session 1- Thursday, August 5th 
• Laptop Distribution- Thursday, August 12th
• Student Orientation- Thursday, August 19th 
• Student and Parent Open House- Thursday, August 19th 
• First Day of School- Monday, August 23rd

Virtual Cooper Prep Goes Live Monday, July 26th 

We are happy to share that our Virtual Cooper Prep component will be made available to all students and families via the Cooper website this coming Monday, July 26th!  This virtual programming includes a self-paced interactive module that covers a variety of topics such as: welcome messages from administrators, counselors, and teachers, managing the Cooper block schedule, organization strategies, technology tips, Q&A with current students, and much more. Please encourage your student to complete the module to  set themselves up for a successful start of the school year!

The registration for in-person Cooper Prep sessions is now closed.  If you registered your student, you received an email confirmation on July 16th from Aubrey Hopkins Midgley.  Please be sure to complete the student information request form (linked in the message sent July 16th) and go to MySchoolBucks  to order the optional Cooper Prep t-shirt no later than Friday, July 23rd.

Parent Prep Session 1-Thursday, August 5th 

Please join us as we kick-off our Parent Sessions  with the first session being held on Thursday, August 5th at 5PM.  This virtual session will provide parents with an introduction to our administrative and students services teams and will highlight the timely and relevant topics as we return to five days of in-person learning this school year.  Building and supporting a successful parent-school partnership remains a top priority at Cooper, so we hope you will join us.  Please RSVP using this form.  

Student Orientation- August 19, 2021 9:00AM-11:00AM.  Please RSVP.

We are excited to welcome students and provide them with an opportunity to meet teachers, walk their schedule, and connect with peers on Thursday, August 19th from 9:00-11:00 AM.  This programming is optional and for students only.    

Buses will be provided to/from each elementary school parking lot listed below.  We strongly request that students attending orientation please take advantage of the shuttles provided to alleviate traffic back ups as Cooper is still under summer renovations.  Any students getting dropped off/picked up will be directed to the Kiss and Ride loop at the back of the building.   Buses will depart the elementary school locations at the following times and drop students back off at the elementary school by approximately 11:15-11:30 AM depending on the distance from Cooper.

Please RSVP by Monday, August 9th by completing this form only if your student is planning to attend and identify which location they will shuttle from so we can plan accordingly.

Open House for Students and Parents August 19, 2021 2:00-5:00 PM.  

All Cooper students and parents are invited to come tour Cooper on Thursday, August 19 from 2PM-5PM.  Students and parents will have a chance to walk their schedule, meet their teachers, complete required paperwork, and purchase spirit wear from our PTO.  While students won’t be issued lockers this year, the Open House is an excellent opportunity to connect as a community.  In an effort to alleviate traffic congestion, we are encouraging families to attend during the following time slots to the greatest extent possible:

1:1 LAPTOP DISTRIBUTION 

As you may know, all middle school students will receive a laptop for the 2021-2022 school year as part of FCPSOn.  Cooper students will obtain and onboard their FCPS device at any of the following times:

• If your student is attending Cooper Prep either August 11th or 12th, students will receive their laptop during this programming
• Thursday, August 12th 2:00-4:00 PM
• During Cooper Open House on Thursday, August 19th 2:00-5:00 PM
• On the first day of school

Students with their own personal devices are strongly encouraged to obtain an FCPS-issued laptop. All students will need access to the same approved and county procured software, which might not be available or compatible with self-provided laptops.  Unlike privately owned devices, our support staff will only troubleshoot technology challenges and service FCPS devices.  Students will also need to use FCPS laptops for SOL and other required testing, and these devices are configured to the Cooper Wifi and printers.  (See link to website below for FAQs.) 

Please view the following documentation:

• Please visit the FCPSOn webpage for more information about FCPSOn - including Digital Citizenship, and highlights of the initiative.
• Device Guidelines
• Opt-out form (Please return this form only if you choose not to receive an FCPS issued device)

Mental Wellness Consultations

This summer, the FCPS Office of Intervention and Prevention Services will offer virtual Mental Wellness Consultations from June 28  through August 6, 2021. This opportunity will be shared simultaneously with parents via News You Choose.  Parents and students will have an opportunity to schedule a 45-minute consultation with a school psychologist or school social worker by phone or videoconference. Consultations will be offered in two ways:

• Directly to parents of students in any grade level. This consultation provides an opportunity for parents to receive guidance on how to support their child’s social, emotional, and academic success. Information about community resources will also be provided.  

• Directly to students in middle or high school. This consultation provides an opportunity for middle and high school students to receive guidance and support for concerns related to anxiety, mood, behavior, peer or family interactions, or the transition back to school in the fall. Strategies and tools can also be provided to address academic challenges such as organization and time-management.

All parents and secondary students are encouraged to take advantage of this service by clicking here to request a consultation or leaving a message at 571-423-4276.

Cooper Student earned the State Merit Award for Virginia 

Read about the challenge and the student's work.

The last academic year was especially tough for teachers, administration and students due to situations beyond our control. Thank you for your encouragement and support during the Science Olympiad and other STEM initiatives like this throughout the year. The opportunities create lasting impressions and lifelong interest in young kids' minds about Science and Technology.

977 Balls Hill Road, McLean, VA 22101 |  Main Phone: 703.442.5800
Attendance: 703.442.5858 | Student Services: 703.442.5812 | Web | Twitter