What a wonderful week and celebration we had last week with Read Across America Week. It was capped off with our annual kindergarten Book Character Parade. Thank you to all families who came out!
As a reminder, our next early release is on Monday, March 17th at 12:30 pm. Families should have received an email yesterday confirming how and when their child is being dismissed. If there are any changes, please contact sebrown@fcps.edu by 4:00 pm on Friday, March 14th.
Dominic, Jaime and Scott
The UMES Admin Team
#UMESBetterTogether
🗓️ Upcoming Dates
Monday, March 17th - 3 Hour Early Release
Wednesday, March 19th - Spring Picture Day & 6th Grade Panoramic
Friday, March 28th - PTA's Bingo Night Make-Up
Monday, March 31st - Eid-al-Fitr Holiday (No School)
Tuesday, April 1st - Teacher Workday (No School for Students)
Friday, April 4th - Principal's Coffee - Neurodiversity Focus
Wednesday, April 9th - Purple Up! for the Military Child Day
Monday, April 14th - Friday, April 18th - FCPS Spring Break
Monday, April 21st - Friday, April 25th - Spring Book Fair
Tuesday, April 22nd - Family Heritage Night, Literacy Night and Book Fair Shopping
Second grade classes present a "Gallery of Heroes" exhibition to celebrate Black History Month. Students learned about a wide variety of African-Americans who shaped history then presented their findings to the class.
World Down Syndrome Day
Friday, March 21st is World Down Syndrome Day. Students and staff are encouraged to wear mismatched socks.
Kindergarten Registration and Orientation
Save the Date!
Union Mill’s Kindergarten Orientation for rising Kindergarteners is right around the corner! Join us on Monday, April 28, 2025 from 2:45 – 3:45 p.m.
Online Registration is now open for new-to-FCPS students for the 2025-26 school year. You can register through your existing ParentVUE account, or create an account (new-to-FCPS parents only). Details are available here: www.fcps.edu/onlin-registration. Our Registrar, Catherine Dubas, is happy to process registrations directly, as well. Please contact her at cmdubas@fcps.edu and be ready to provide your family’s address and rising kindergartener’s date of birth. Mrs. Dubas will respond with registration details and documents necessary to start the process. Please don’t wait until summer to register your kindergarteners.
Spring Book Fair April 21-25th!
Spring has sprung and we are planning for our spring book fair in a few weeks. If you have some time to give, we would love your help. No experience is needed! To sign up to help with the book fair use this link: https://tinyurl.com/wd73hv3h
Due to spring break, we will set up the book fair the morning of April 21st. Thank you, we could not run our book fair without the help of our volunteers!
Volunteers Needed
Union Mill families, we need your help! We are looking for volunteers to support our Calm Cafe during lunch blocks. Your presence can make a big difference in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable lunchtime experience for our students. If you’re available to lend a hand, even for a short time, we would love to have you!
If you are interested in volunteering, please email Dominic Williams at dawilliams@fcps.edu.
Thank you for being a part of our amazing community and for your support!
Order Your Yearbook Now!
It's time to order your 2024-2025 yearbook! Families may place orders at www.buytheyearbook.com (with school ID# 725178). Yearbooks are $15.70 each.
So far, only 362 yearbooks have been purchased. Don't miss your chance to order a yearbook as there will not be extras available at the end of the year.
The deadline to order is April 22, 2025.
Early Release Mondays
As a reminder, the Centreville Pyramid, which includes Union Mill Elementary, will have the following three-hour early release days. On these days, students will be dismissed at 12:30 p.m.
PTA Memberships are only good for one year. Members get PTA information first, discounts and benefits at PTA-sponsored events, and are the first to know about volunteer opportunities at the school!
Why Join?
Membership is only $15/year for a family and $7.50/year for an individual or staff member and shows you value our school community - students, staff and your fellow parents and caregivers. It’s a small investment - you spend more than that on Starbucks or gas every week! Show your love and support of Union Mill and click here to join today.
Thank you to everyone who participated in the Kids Heart Challenge! It was a fantastic event, and we are so proud of our students for raising money for such a great cause. Your support made it a huge success!
We were also honored to welcome FCPS Superintendent Michelle Reid to our school recently. She had the opportunity to visit classrooms and see our students engaged in the writing process—a wonderful showcase of their hard work and creativity.
Looking ahead, we invite parents of our exceptional children to join an upcoming Zoom session, where families can connect, share resources, and discuss triumphs and challenges together. Find the link below to register.
Dominic, Jaime and Scott
The UMES Admin Team
#UMESBetterTogether
🗓️ Upcoming Dates
Monday, March 3rd - Friday, March 7th - Read Across America Week
Thursday, March 6th - Virtual Supporting Neurodivergent Families
Thursday, March 13th - PTA's Family Paint Night
Monday, March 17th - 3 Hour Early Release
Wednesday, March 19th - Spring Picture Day & 6th Grade Panoramic
Friday, March 28th - PTA's Bingo Night Make-Up
Monday, March 31st - Eid-al-Fitr Holiday (No School)
Tuesday, April 1st - Teacher Workday (No School for Students)
Friday, April 4th - Principal's Coffee - Neurodiversity Focus
Wednesday, April 9th - Purple Up! for the Military Child Day
Monday, April 14th - Friday, April 18th - FCPS Spring Break
Congratulations Mrs. Erica Moore on her recognition as the December / January FCPS CARES Region 4 Recipient of the month! To read the write up and learn more click here.
To submit an FCPS CARES to recognize the amazing work by FCPS and Union Mill staff, click here.
Kids Heart Challenge
THANK YOU! Our school raised $28,553 for the American Heart Association! The top three student earners were Leyna H., Jackson S., and Ian A. We are so grateful to all of the families who registered, donated, or attended the event. We had an amazing turn out on Thursday. We are so proud of the sixth graders who volunteered to run the stations. They showed great leadership, kindness, and maturity. Thank you also to the staff members who stayed after to supervise at the event.
The duck keychains are rolling out this week. The jump ropes, t-shirts, basketballs, etc. are ordered. When they arrive, they will be sent home. If you have any questions, please email Jenny Murray at jbmurray@fcps.edu.
Read Across America Week
FCPS Superintendent Dr. Reid Visit
FCPS Superintendent, Dr. Michelle Reid took time to visit Union Mill last week. Dr. Reid was greeted by two of our student ambassadors then visited Ms. Abrams, Ms. Price and Mrs. Jimmo's classrooms. During her visit she was able to connect with students and staff and check out some of the amazing work our staff is doing with language arts instruction.
Volunteers Needed
Union Mill families, we need your help! We are looking for volunteers to support our Calm Cafe during lunch blocks. Your presence can make a big difference in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable lunchtime experience for our students. If you’re available to lend a hand, even for a short time, we would love to have you!
If you are interested in volunteering, please email Dominic Williams at dawilliams@fcps.edu.
Thank you for being a part of our amazing community and for your support!
SACC Parking
As a reminder, we kindly ask that all parents dropping off and picking up students use the designated SACC parking spots. Parking in undesignated areas can block access for delivery vehicles and create unnecessary congestion. Your cooperation helps keep our parking lot safe and efficient for everyone.
Thank you,
SACC/UMES Staff
Supporting Neurodivergent Families
Please join UMES Special Education teacher, Nicole Zupan, on Thursday March 6 from 6:30-7:30pm in a virtual support group for families of neurodivergent students. This group is meant to be a place to share resources, triumphs and challenges with our exceptional children. Please use the following link to join the meeting:
Topic: Support Group for Families with Neurodivergent Students
Time: Mar 6, 2025 06:30 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Three Piggy Opera
Do you have a couple of great shots from this week's Three Piggy Opera that would be perfect for the yearbook? We are looking for photos that contain at least two or more students. Please upload it to http://www.YBKpix.com Use the school ID: 301716-2501 A submission of photos is not a guarantee the photo will be used but we will do our best. Thank you for helping to make our yearbook a wonderful book of memories.
Month of the Military Child
April is the Month of the Military Child, a time to honor and celebrate the resilience, courage, and contributions of FCPS military-connected children.
To show our support, FCPS will celebrate PurpleUp! Day on Wednesday, April 9, 2025. Please note that this date has been adjusted to align with our Spring Break schedule. On this day, school staff and students are encouraged to wear purple, symbolizing unity and support for military families across all service branches.
Purchasethe FCPS Purple Up! T-shirtand/or hoodie between now and March 7 to wear on Purple Up! Day!
Please note, the cost of shipping and handling is per shipping address.
This is an in-person conference, which will cover a variety of topics and benefit all families. There will be two guest speakers, and families will have the opportunity to participate in two breakout sessions.
Participants can expect engaging discussions on special and general education topics around the following themes:
Advocating for your student,
Supporting your student,
Partnering with your school, and
Understanding your students' learning.
Alongside a variety of exhibitors offering resources and details on community events and services, our student showcase will provide a platform for students to showcase their creativity and leadership by sharing projects and initiatives they've designed or led.
Order Your Yearbook Now!
It's time to order your 2024-2025 yearbook! Families may place orders at www.buytheyearbook.com (with school ID# 725178). Yearbooks are $15.70 each.
So far, only 362 yearbooks have been purchased. Don't miss your chance to order a yearbook as there will not be extras available at the end of the year.
The deadline to order is April 22, 2025.
Early Release Mondays
As a reminder, the Centreville Pyramid, which includes Union Mill Elementary, will have the following three-hour early release days. On these days, students will be dismissed at 12:30 p.m.
PTA Memberships are only good for one year. Members get PTA information first, discounts and benefits at PTA-sponsored events, and are the first to know about volunteer opportunities at the school!
Why Join?
Membership is only $15/year for a family and $7.50/year for an individual or staff member and shows you value our school community - students, staff and your fellow parents and caregivers. It’s a small investment - you spend more than that on Starbucks or gas every week! Show your love and support of Union Mill and click here to join today.
Thanks for everyone's flexibility with Monday's early release. This provided time for our teachers to complete required trainings and to collaborate with one another regarding strategies being utilized to develop communication and collaboration skills in students.
We are excited for our Kids' Heart Challenge tomorrow evening. Swing by from 5:00 - 6:30 pm for some engaging and healthy activities!
Dominic, Jaime and Scott
The UMES Admin Team
#UMESBetterTogether
🗓️ Upcoming Dates
Thursday, February 27th - Kids' Heart Challenge
Friday, February 28th – SCA-sponsored Stuffed Animal Day (Must be able to fit in your backpack.)
Monday, March 3rd - Friday, March 7th - Read Across America Week
Thursday, March 13th - PTA's Family Paint Night
Monday, March 17th - 3 Hour Early Release
Wednesday, March 19th - Spring Picture Day
Friday, March 28th - PTA's Bingo Night Make-Up
Monday, March 31st - Eid-al-Fitr Holiday (No School)
Tuesday, April 1st - Teacher Workday (No School for Students)
Friday, April 4th - Principal's Coffee - Neurodiversity Focus
Wednesday, April 9th - Purple Up! for the Military Child Day
Monday, April 14th - Friday, April 18th - FCPS Spring Break
The SCA collaborated with one another to create Bird Suet Feeders for Union Mill. After the feeders were created, members of the SCA hung them on various trees around the school. Check them out next time you are at Union Mill!
Kids Heart Challenge
Join us for the Kids' Heart Challenge event on Thursday, February 27 (rescheduled), from 5:00 - 6:30 pm. The event will run as an open house so you can come at any point during that hour and a half. We will have two food trucks on site for your family to purchase dinner or snacks before, during, or after the activities. To check out the food truck menus, please click on these links: Frothy Mug and Two Smooth Dudes
As students register, they will receive their heart wristband. To register, please click on this link: KHC UMES or this QR code above. If they complete Finn’s Mission they will be given their lifesaver's cape. All other prizes will be handed out after the event. For clarification, students can register, raise donations (or not), and do Finn’s Mission without attending the evening event. The big event can be attended without registering online or getting donations for the American Heart Association.
If you have any questions, please contact Jenny Murray at jbmurray@fcps.edu.
Read Across America Week
Supporting Neurodivergent Families
Please join UMES Special Education teacher, Nicole Zupan, on Thursday March 6 from 6:30-7:30pm in a virtual support group for families of neurodivergent students. This group is meant to be a place to share resources, triumphs and challenges with our exceptional children. Please use the following link to join the meeting:
Topic: Support Group for Families with Neurodivergent Students
Time: Mar 6, 2025 06:30 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Energy Star Award
Congratulations to Union Mill Elementary for earning the Energy Star Award again this year!
Month of the Military Child
April is the Month of the Military Child, a time to honor and celebrate the resilience, courage, and contributions of FCPS military-connected children.
To show our support, FCPS will celebrate PurpleUp! Day on Wednesday, April 9, 2025. Please note that this date has been adjusted to align with our Spring Break schedule. On this day, school staff and students are encouraged to wear purple, symbolizing unity and support for military families across all service branches.
Purchasethe FCPS Purple Up! T-shirtand/or hoodie between now and March 7 to wear on Purple Up! Day!
Please note, the cost of shipping and handling is per shipping address.
Fasting Meal Kits for February 28 - March 28, 2025
Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) has exciting news for students! Thanks to a new program from the Virginia Department of Education, FCPS students who are fasting during the school day between February 28 and March 28, 2025 can now take school meal kits home at the end of the day.
School meal kits will provide complete, healthy meals that include protein, fruits, vegetables, low-fat milk, and whole grains—just like the meals served at school. The food will be kept cold so it stays fresh, and you can heat it at home. The meals are made to fit different food preferences.
Here's how it works:
Parents/Guardians: Fill out a Fasting Meals Request Form below for each week your child will pick up school meal kits.
Student Pick-up: Students can pick up one breakfast meal kit and one lunch meal kit at the end of the school day.
Who can get a meal kit? Any student who is fasting can get a meal kit. If a student gets lunch or breakfast at school, they can't get a meal kit that day. Only students can pick up the meal kits – no adults.
When? These meal kits are only available from February 28 to March 28, 2025 at the end of the school day.
Parents/Guardians: Please fill out the following form (link below) if you would like your fasting student(s) to receive school meal kits at the end of the school day to take home. A separate form must be filled out for each week and each student.
This is an in-person conference, which will cover a variety of topics and benefit all families. There will be two guest speakers, and families will have the opportunity to participate in two breakout sessions.
Participants can expect engaging discussions on special and general education topics around the following themes:
Advocating for your student,
Supporting your student,
Partnering with your school, and
Understanding your students' learning.
Alongside a variety of exhibitors offering resources and details on community events and services, our student showcase will provide a platform for students to showcase their creativity and leadership by sharing projects and initiatives they've designed or led.
Order Your Yearbook Now!
It's time to order your 2024-2025 yearbook! Families may place orders at www.buytheyearbook.com (with school ID# 725178). Yearbooks are $15.70 each.
So far, only 362 yearbooks have been purchased. Don't miss your chance to order a yearbook as there will not be extras available at the end of the year.
The deadline to order is April 22, 2025.
Early Release Mondays
As a reminder, the Centreville Pyramid, which includes Union Mill Elementary, will have the following three-hour early release days. On these days, students will be dismissed at 12:30 p.m.
PTA Memberships are only good for one year. Members get PTA information first, discounts and benefits at PTA-sponsored events, and are the first to know about volunteer opportunities at the school!
Why Join?
Membership is only $15/year for a family and $7.50/year for an individual or staff member and shows you value our school community - students, staff and your fellow parents and caregivers. It’s a small investment - you spend more than that on Starbucks or gas every week! Show your love and support of Union Mill and click here to join today.
We have been closely monitoring the weather for Thursday, February 20th and given the level of uncertainty, we have made the decision to postpone the Kids Heart Challenge untilThursday, February 27th. Postponing in advance provides us the opportunity to coordinate with our student and staff volunteers along with members of the American Heart Association who support the event each year. It also allows us to give advance notice and the opportunity to reschedule with our food trucks. We look forward to seeing families at this amazing event on Thursday, February 27th from 5:00 – 6:30 pm.
Our next three hour early release is on Monday, February 24th at 12:30 pm. Communication was sent out last week to confirm your childcare needs. We will send a final notification on Friday as a reminder.
The event begins with a light reception followed by a formal program, From the Threads of Our Past to the Fabric of Our Future. The program will honor the enduring contributions of Black history and culture while envisioning a future rooted in equity and excellence. It will include inspiring performances, personal stories, reflections, and opportunities to connect and celebrate. The event is open to the entire community.
Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing their central role in U.S. history. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. Learn more about Black History month.
Join your neighbors and family to explore Black history in Fairfax County and celebrate perseverance and resiliency.
Student Fasting Meal Kits for February 28 - March 28, 2025
Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) has exciting news for students! Thanks to a new program from the Virginia Department of Education, FCPS students who are fasting during the school day between February 28 and March 28, 2025 can now take school meal kits home at the end of the day.
School meal kits will provide complete, healthy meals that include protein, fruits, vegetables, low-fat milk, and whole grains—just like the meals served at school. The food will be kept cold so it stays fresh, and you can heat it at home. The meals are made to fit different food preferences.
Here's how it works:
Parents/Guardians: Fill out a Fasting Meals Request Form below for each week your child will pick up school meal kits.
Student Pick-up: Students can pick up one breakfast meal kit and one lunch meal kit at the end of the school day.
Who can get a meal kit? Any student who is fasting can get a meal kit. If a student gets lunch or breakfast at school, they can't get a meal kit that day. Only students can pick up the meal kits – no adults.
When? These meal kits are only available from February 28 to March 28, 2025 at the end of the school day.
Parents/Guardians: Please fill out the following forms if you would like your fasting student(s) to receive school meal kits at the end of the school day to take home. A separate form must be filled out for each week and each student.
Do you love capturing special moments? The UMES Yearbook team needs your help! We’re looking for a volunteer(s) to take photos at the Union Mill vs. Centreville Elementary volleyball game on the evening of Friday, April 4th. Help us capture the energy of the players, the excitement of the fans, and all the action on the court!
If you’re interested in lending a hand, we’d love to have you join us. Please email librarian Ami Schroder at amschroder@fcps.edu Thank you for supporting our yearbook!
SCA Stuffed Animal Day
SCA will be sponsoring Stuffed Animal Day on Friday, February 28th. Stuffed animals must fit in your child's backpack.
Kids Heart Challenge
Join us for the Kids Heart Challenge event on Thursday, February 27 (rescheduled), from 5:00 - 6:30 pm. The event will run as an open house so you can come at any point during that hour and a half. We will have two food trucks on site for your family to purchase dinner or snacks before, during, or after the activities. To check out the food truck menus, please click on these links: Frothy Mug and Two Smooth Dudes
As students register, they will receive their heart wristband. To register, please click on this link: KHC UMES or this QR code above. If they complete Finn’s Mission they will be given their lifesavers cape. All other prizes will be handed out after the event. For clarification, students can register, raise donations (or not), and do Finn’s Mission without attending the evening event. The big event can be attended without registering online or getting donations for the American Heart Association.
If you have any questions, please contact Jenny Murray at jbmurray@fcps.edu.
Parent & Family Focus Groups on Hate Speech
Liberty Middle School is hosting a community event on Thursday, February 20th from 6:30 - 8:00 pm to discuss hate speech and to ensure students have access to a safe, inclusive and respectful learning environment.
As part of this commitment, we are seeking input from families like yours to help us better understand the challenges and develop effective strategies to combat hate speech. Your experiences, perspectives, and ideas are invaluable in this process.
These focus groups will provide a safe and confidential space for you to share your thoughts and concerns. The focus groups will be facilitated by members of our staff and FCPS community. We want to hear from you about:
Your experiences with hate speech, whether you have witnessed it, been the target of it, or have concerns about its impact on our community.
Your understanding of the different forms hate speech can take.
Your ideas for how we can work together to prevent and address hate speech.
Resources and support you believe would be helpful for families and individuals.
We understand that discussing these issues can be difficult, and we want to assure you that all contributions will be treated with respect and confidentiality. Your participation is entirely voluntary, and you are welcome to share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with. Your feedback will be instrumental in helping us develop comprehensive and effective strategies to address hate speech and promote a more inclusive community. We believe that by working together, we can create a positive and supportive environment for all.
This semester’s nonprofit Community Flier Distribution will take place on Friday, March 7th. To submit a flier for approval, it must be received in the main office by no later than Friday, February 21st and include the following disclaimer:
"This event [or activity] is sponsored by [name of the organization] and is operated independently of the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, and Union Mill Elementary School.”
Once the flier is approved, please deliver 35 sets of 30 copies each (plus a few extras for the front office) no later than 12:00pm on Wednesday, March 5th.
Fliers will go home with students on Friday, March 7th .
Order Your Yearbook Now!
It's time to order your 2024-2025 yearbook! Families may place orders at www.buytheyearbook.com (with school ID# 725178). Yearbooks are $15.70 each.
So far, only 362 yearbooks have been purchased. Don't miss your chance to order a yearbook as there will not be extras available at the end of the year.
The deadline to order is April 22, 2025.
Early Release Mondays
As a reminder, the Centreville Pyramid, which includes Union Mill Elementary, will have the following three-hour early release days. On these days, students will be dismissed at 12:30 p.m.
PTA Memberships are only good for one year. Members get PTA information first, discounts and benefits at PTA-sponsored events, and are the first to know about volunteer opportunities at the school!
Why Join?
Membership is only $15/year for a family and $7.50/year for an individual or staff member and shows you value our school community - students, staff and your fellow parents and caregivers. It’s a small investment - you spend more than that on Starbucks or gas every week! Show your love and support of Union Mill and click here to join today.
What a difference a day makes with weather. Thank you to our custodial team who was able to clear the blacktop to provide students an opportunity to get outside and enjoy the milder temperatures today.
Check out some of the photos below with third graders learning more from the Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District earlier this week.
As a reminder, Monday, February 17th is a holiday for students and staff. FCPS schools and offices will be closed for Presidents' Day.
Our next 3-hour early release Monday is on February 24th. Families will be receiving a confirmation email tomorrow regarding their choice for childcare.
Dominic, Jaime and Scott
The UMES Admin Team
#UMESBetterTogether
🗓️ Upcoming Dates
Monday, February 17th - Presidents' Day - Student Holiday
Wednesday, February 19th - Virtual PTA Meeting
Thursday, February 20th - Kids' Heart Challenge
Friday, February 21st - Community Fliers due to the Office for Approval
Monday, February 24th - 3 Hour Early Release
Friday, February 28th – SCA sponsored Stuffed Animal Day (Must be able to fit in your backpack).
Monday, March 3rd - Friday, March 7th - Read Across America Week
The event begins with a light reception followed by a formal program, From the Threads of Our Past to the Fabric of Our Future. The program will honor the enduring contributions of Black history and culture while envisioning a future rooted in equity and excellence. It will include inspiring performances, personal stories, reflections, and opportunities to connect and celebrate. The event is open to the entire community.
Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing their central role in U.S. history. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. Learn more about Black History month.
Third Grade Soil Presentation
Earlier this week third graders had the opportunity to engage in a presentation from the Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District. Students learned about soil formation, soil texture and layers and soil’s role in the water cycle, all tied into the third grade SOLs. Additional information regarding the Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District can be found here.
SCA Stuffed Animal Day
SCA will be sponsoring Stuffed Animal Day on Friday, February 28th. Stuffed animals must fit in your child's backpack.
Kids Heart Challenge
Please mark your calendars to join us for the Kids Heart Challenge event on Thursday, February 20, from 5-6:30 pm. The event will run as an open house so you can come at any point during that hour and a half. We will have two food trucks on site for your family to purchase dinner or snacks before, during, or after the activities. To check out the food truck menus, please click on these links: Frothy Mug and Two Smooth Dudes
As students register, they will receive their heart wristband. To register, please click on this link: KHC UMES or this QR code above. If they complete Finn’s Mission they will be given their lifesavers cape. All other prizes will be handed out after the event. For clarification, students can register, raise donations (or not), and do Finn’s Mission without attending the evening event. The big event can be attended without registering online or getting donations for the American Heart Association.
If you have any questions, please contact Jenny Murray at jbmurray@fcps.edu.
Wear Red for American Heart Month
Last Friday Union Mill Staff wore red as part of American Heart Month. As a reminder, our Kids Heart Challenge event is on Thursday, February 20th
Parent & Family Focus Groups on Hate Speech
Liberty Middle School is hosting a community event on Thursday, February 20th from 6:30 - 8:00 pm to discuss hate speech and to ensure students have access to a safe, inclusive and respectful learning environment.
As part of this commitment, we are seeking input from families like yours to help us better understand the challenges and develop effective strategies to combat hate speech. Your experiences, perspectives, and ideas are invaluable in this process.
These focus groups will provide a safe and confidential space for you to share your thoughts and concerns. The focus groups will be facilitated by members of our staff and FCPS community. We want to hear from you about:
Your experiences with hate speech, whether you have witnessed it, been the target of it, or have concerns about its impact on our community.
Your understanding of the different forms hate speech can take.
Your ideas for how we can work together to prevent and address hate speech.
Resources and support you believe would be helpful for families and individuals.
We understand that discussing these issues can be difficult, and we want to assure you that all contributions will be treated with respect and confidentiality. Your participation is entirely voluntary, and you are welcome to share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with. Your feedback will be instrumental in helping us develop comprehensive and effective strategies to address hate speech and promote a more inclusive community. We believe that by working together, we can create a positive and supportive environment for all.
Our school will participate in the FCPS Student Experience Survey. This survey will gather important feedback from students about their school experiences to help FCPS make meaningful improvements.
All students in grades 3-6, except those who have opted out, will receive a link to the survey in their FCPS email on February 24. We will administer the survey during the school day between Monday, February 24, and Friday, March 7. Any student may take the survey at home, if they are unable to take the survey during the school day. If you would like your child to opt-out of the survey, please complete this form. If you would prefer a paper copy of the opt-out form, please email Jaime Graham at jagraham@fcps.edu or call 703-322-8500.
We believe it's important to hear from our students about what we're doing well and where we can improve. This work also aligns with the five equity commitments in FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan, which focus on amplifying student voice and experiences as we work toward meeting plan goals.
Community Flier Distribution
This semester’s nonprofit Community Flier Distribution will take place on Friday, March 7th. To submit a flier for approval, it must be received in the main office by no later than Friday, February 21st and include the following disclaimer:
"This event [or activity] is sponsored by [name of the organization] and is operated independently of the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, and Union Mill Elementary School.”
Once the flier is approved, please deliver 35 sets of 30 copies each (plus a few extras for the front office) no later than 12:00pm on Wednesday, March 5th.
Fliers will go home with students on Friday, March 7th .
Order Your Yearbook Now!
It's time to order your 2024-2025 yearbook! Families may place orders at www.buytheyearbook.com (with school ID# 725178). Yearbooks are $15.70 each.
So far, only 362 yearbooks have been purchased. Don't miss your chance to order a yearbook as there will not be extras available at the end of the year.
The deadline to order is April 22, 2025.
Early Release Mondays
As a reminder, the Centreville Pyramid, which includes Union Mill Elementary, will have the following three-hour early release days. On these days, students will be dismissed at 12:30 p.m.
PTA Memberships are only good for one year. Members get PTA information first, discounts and benefits at PTA-sponsored events, and are the first to know about volunteer opportunities at the school!
Why Join?
Membership is only $15/year for a family and $7.50/year for an individual or staff member and shows you value our school community - students, staff and your fellow parents and caregivers. It’s a small investment - you spend more than that on Starbucks or gas every week! Show your love and support of Union Mill and click here to join today.
This week we celebrate National School Counselors week. We are grateful for Wendy Kourajian and Jenna Schmidt for all they do to support our students, staff and families!
We have some fun events coming up including PTA Bingo Night on Friday and our Kids' Heart Challenge on Thursday, February 20th!
This is a friendly reminder that FCPS announced that tomorrow (February 6) is a 2 hour delay.
Dominic, Jaime and Scott
The UMES Admin Team
#UMESBetterTogether
🗓️ Upcoming Dates
Friday, February 7th - Wear Red for American Heart Month
- PTA Bingo Night
Monday, February 17th - Presidents' Day - Student Holiday
Wednesday, February 19th - Virtual PTA Meeting
Thursday, February 20th - Kids' Heart Challenge
Friday, February 21st - Community Fliers due to the Office for Approval
Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing their central role in U.S. history. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. Learn more about Black History month.
💕 Wear Red for American Heart Month
February is American Heart Month! All students and staff are invited to help raise awareness of and show their support for those with heart disease by wearing red on Friday, February 7.
Let's paint UMES red and make a difference together!
UMES Library Communicators and Collaborators:
This week, students in Mrs. Cheema’s third grade and in Ms. Holdsman’s second graders worked in small groups to solve the mystery of “Crimes Against Books”! Student detectives used magnifying glasses and communicated with one another to determine what had caused the damage to each of library books at their table. As a group they collaborated to decide how each book had been damaged and what could have been done to prevent the damage. They then reported out to the class on what they found and how it could be prevented in the future! They are great communicators and collaborators!
Kids Heart Challenge
The Kids Heart Challenge is coming soon! Last week we had assemblies by our American Heart Association representative for Kindergarten through 5th grade classes and flyers were sent home. As students register, they will receive their wristbands. When Finn’s Mission is accomplished, students will earn their special hero cape. All other prizes will be given out after the big evening event.
To register, please click on this link: KHC UMES or this QR code above.
Please mark your calendars to join us for the big Kid's Heart Challenge event on Thursday, February 20, from 5-6:30 pm. The event will run as an open house so you can come at any point during that time. We will have two food trucks on site for your family to get dinner before, during, or after the activities.
If you have any questions, please contact Jenny Murray at jbmurray@fcps.edu.
School Counseling and Crossing Guard Week
Thank you to our amazing counselors Mrs. Schmidt and Mrs. Kourajian for all that you do! Thank you to Ms. Cheryl for keeping our kids and families safe as our amazing Crossing Guard!
After School Run Club
Our After School Run Club has met and exceeded our capacity and limit. We are excited that there is so much interest. Unfortunately, we will not be able to accept any more students at this time.
Community Flier Distribution
This semester’s nonprofit Community Flier Distribution will take place on Friday, March 7th. To submit a flier for approval, it must be received in the main office by no later than Friday, February 21st and include the following disclaimer:
"This event [or activity] is sponsored by [name of the organization] and is operated independently of the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, and Union Mill Elementary School.”
Once the flier is approved, please deliver 35 sets of 30 copies each (plus a few extras for the front office) no later than 12:00pm on Wednesday, March 5th.
Fliers will go home with students on Friday, March 7th .
Library Cake Pans
Does your student like to bake but you would rather not spend money on a one time character cake pan? The UMES library has cake pans in all shapes and sizes for your student to check out. We have many different characters including Mickey Mouse and My Little Pony as well as different shaped pans such as a giant cupcake. We also have holiday themed pans such as heart pans. The cake pans are located by the cookbooks and can be checked out for three weeks. All we ask is that you wash the pan prior to returning it to the library. The library also accepts donations of metal and silicone cake pans if you are cleaning out your cupboard!
Health Reminders
Flu season is here, and we all want to keep our students healthy and safe. Please remind your child to practice good hygiene, such as washing their hands frequently and covering their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
If your child is feeling unwell, especially with flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, or body aches, we ask that you to keep them at home to rest and recover and be fever free for 24 hours without medication, before returning to school. This helps prevent the spread of illness to others.
Thank you for your support in keeping our school community healthy. If you have any questions or need additional information, please feel free to reach out.
Valentines for Veterans and Active Duty Service Members!
Our UMES SCA is sponsoring a Valentine card project to make valentines for every military connected family member connected to our UMES students. If a member of your student’s family is connected to a military veteran or an active duty service member and you would like them to receive some valentines, please fill out this form. If you have multiple military connected family members, please fill out and submit a form for each member for who you wish to receive valentine cards.
Lunar New Year Celebration
Free Books
Order Your Yearbook Now!
It's time to order your 2024-2025 yearbook! Families may place orders at www.buytheyearbook.com (with school ID# 725178) or use the QR code below.Yearbooks are $15.70 each.
Don't miss your chance to order this year’s yearbook! There will not be extras available at the end of the year.
The deadline to order is April 22, 2025.
Early Release Mondays
As a reminder, the Centreville Pyramid, which includes Union Mill Elementary, will have the following three-hour early release days. On these days, students will be dismissed at 12:30 p.m.
Our PTA is excited to host Family Bingo night on Friday, February 7. At this time, we have reached capacity and can no longer accept additional registrations.
If you registered to attend and your plans change, please email pta@unionmillpta.org so we can take you off the list and open your spots to another family.
This is a free event for our UMES families. These giveback events are only possible through your support of the UMES PTA. Thank you!
Membership
PTA Memberships are only good for one year. Members get PTA information first, discounts and benefits at PTA-sponsored events, and are the first to know about volunteer opportunities at the school!
Why Join?
Membership is only $15/year for a family and $7.50/year for an individual or staff member and shows you value our school community - students, staff and your fellow parents and caregivers. It’s a small investment - you spend more than that on Starbucks or gas every week! Show your love and support of Union Mill and click here to join today.
This is a friendly reminder that tomorrow is a teacher workday, and there will be no school for students. Teachers will use this time for planning, progress reports and finalizing the end of the quarter.
We look forward to seeing students back in school on Thursday. This Friday, January 31st is our Centreville and Robinson Spirit Day!
Dominic, Jaime and Scott
The UMES Admin Team
#UMESBetterTogether
🗓️ Upcoming Dates
Wednesday, January 29th - Teacher Workday, Student Holiday
Friday, January 31st - SCA Spirit Day - Centreville and Robinson Day
Friday, February 7th - PTA Bingo Night
Monday, February 17th - Presidents' Day - Student Holiday
Our next SCA Spirit day will be on Friday, January 31st - Centreville HS and Robinson HS Day. Wear blue and black or blue and gold!
Library Cake Pans
Does your student like to bake but you would rather not spend money on a one time character cake pan? The UMES library has cake pans in all shapes and sizes for your student to check out. We have many different characters including Mickey Mouse and My Little Pony as well as different shaped pans such as a giant cupcake. We also have holiday themed pans such as heart pans. The cake pans are located by the cookbooks and can be checked out for three weeks. All we ask is that you wash the pan prior to returning it to the library. The library also accepts donations of metal and silicone cake pans if you are cleaning out your cupboard!
Health Reminders
Flu season is here, and we all want to keep our students healthy and safe. Please remind your child to practice good hygiene, such as washing their hands frequently and covering their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
If your child is feeling unwell, especially with flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, or body aches, we ask that you to keep them at home to rest and recover and be fever free for 24 hours without medication, before returning to school. This helps prevent the spread of illness to others.
Thank you for your support in keeping our school community healthy. If you have any questions or need additional information, please feel free to reach out.
Valentines for Veterans and Active Duty Service Members!
Our UMES SCA is sponsoring a Valentine card project to make valentines for every military connected family member connected to our UMES students. If a member of your student’s family is connected to a military veteran or an active duty service member and you would like them to receive some valentines, please fill out this form. If you have multiple military connected family members, please fill out and submit a form for each member for who you wish to receive valentine cards.
Order Your Yearbook Now!
It's time to order your 2024-2025 yearbook! Families may place orders at www.buytheyearbook.com (with school ID# 725178) or use the QR code below.Yearbooks are $15.70 each.
Don't miss your chance to order this year’s yearbook! There will not be extras available at the end of the year.
The deadline to order is April 22, 2025.
Early Release Mondays
As a reminder, the Centreville Pyramid, which includes Union Mill Elementary, will have the following three-hour early release days. On these days, students will be dismissed at 12:30 p.m.
Our PTA is excited to host Family Bingo night on Friday, February 7. At this time, we have reached capacity and can no longer accept additional registrations.
If you registered to attend and your plans change, please email pta@unionmillpta.org so we can take you off the list and open your spots to another family.
This is a free event for our UMES families. These giveback events are only possible through your support of the UMES PTA. Thank you!
Membership
PTA Memberships are only good for one year. Members get PTA information first, discounts and benefits at PTA-sponsored events, and are the first to know about volunteer opportunities at the school!
Why Join?
Membership is only $15/year for a family and $7.50/year for an individual or staff member and shows you value our school community - students, staff and your fellow parents and caregivers. It’s a small investment - you spend more than that on Starbucks or gas every week! Show your love and support of Union Mill and click here to join today.
Thank you for everyone's flexibility with the cold weather. We have maintained routine to the best of our ability. With the ongoing cold spell, we continue to anticipate longer than usual Kiss and Ride times. Thank you in advance for your patience.
Dominic, Jaime and Scott
The UMES Admin Team
#UMESBetterTogether
🗓️ Upcoming Dates
Wednesday, January 29th - Teacher Workday, Student Holiday
Friday, January 31st - SCA Spirit Day - Centreville and Robinson Day
Friday, February 7th - PTA Bingo Night
Monday, February 17th - Presidents' Day - Student Holiday
Cell phones may be used on campus before and after school only. Phones must be silenced and in backpacks for the duration of the school day. Watches that serve a dual purpose (e.g., smart watch) may be worn; however, phone features (e.g., texting, internet, calls, etc.) 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.
SCA Spirit Day
Our next SCA Spirit day will be on Friday, January 31st - Centreville HS and Robinson HS Day. Wear blue and black or blue and gold!
Recognizing FCPS Staff
There are many ways we can recognize our amazing staff at Union Mill and throughout FCPS. If you are looking to formally recognize a staff member, the FCPS CARES Program provides an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees who go above and beyond to help others and show they care about their students, colleagues, and the community.
If you would like to submit an FCPS cares, click here and under "I want to submit a(an) "FCPS Cares Submission" then share specific details.
UMES Yearbook Help - Photos and Typing
Do you enjoy taking photographs? The UMES Yearbook is in need of some photography help and some typing help. We do have a school camera you can use. You would need to be able to come to school during the day on special events to capture photographs. We are also looking for help typing up the sixth grade statements for each sixth grader in the yearbook. The sixth grade support can also be done from your home. If you are interested in helping with the yearbook, please email Ami Schroder at amschroder@fcps.edu.
Valentines for Veterans and Active Duty Service Members!
Our UMES SCA is sponsoring a Valentine card project to make valentines for every military connected family member connected to our UMES students. If a member of your student’s family is connected to a military veteran or an active duty service member and you would like them to receive some valentines, please fill out this form. If you have multiple military connected family members, please fill out and submit a form for each member for who you wish to receive valentine cards.
Bundle up for Winter Recess
Winter is here, and we’re ready to keep recess safe and fun for everyone! Please take a moment to review our Cold Weather Recess Guidelines, based on recommendations from the National Weather Service (NWS):
Wind Chill Advisory: Outdoor recess will be a brisk 15 minutes max
Wind Chill Warning: Recess will move indoors for activities.
To keep everyone’s winter gear in check, please write your child’s name on their items (coats, hats, gloves, scarves, etc.). Our lost and found is overflowing, and labeled gear makes reunions much easier!
Thank you for helping us keep recess safe and warm this winter!
Photos for the Yearbook Wanted!
Do you have a couple of great shots of your together with other UMES students that would be perfect for the yearbook? Please upload it to http://www.YBKpix.com Use the school ID: 301716-2501
We are looking for photos that contain at least two or more students. They can be shots taken at the bus stop, here at school, at school evening events or even in the cafeteria at lunch. A submission of photos is not a guarantee the photo will be used but we will do our best.
Thank you for helping to make our yearbook a wonderful book of memories.
Order Your Yearbook Now!
It's time to order your 2024-2025 yearbook! Families may place orders at www.buytheyearbook.com (with school ID# 725178) or use the QR code below.Yearbooks are $15.70 each.
Don't miss your chance to order this year’s yearbook! There will not be extras available at the end of the year.
The deadline to order is April 22, 2025.
Early Release Mondays
As a reminder, the Centreville Pyramid, which includes Union Mill Elementary, will have the following three-hour early release days. On these days, students will be dismissed at 12:30 p.m.
Our PTA is excited to host Family Bingo night on Friday, February 7. At this time, we have reached capacity and can no longer accept additional registrations.
If you registered to attend and your plans change, please email pta@unionmillpta.org so we can take you off the list and open your spots to another family.
This is a free event for our UMES families. These giveback events are only possible through your support of the UMES PTA. Thank you!
Membership
PTA Memberships are only good for one year. Members get PTA information first, discounts and benefits at PTA-sponsored events, and are the first to know about volunteer opportunities at the school!
Why Join?
Membership is only $15/year for a family and $7.50/year for an individual or staff member and shows you value our school community - students, staff and your fellow parents and caregivers. It’s a small investment - you spend more than that on Starbucks or gas every week! Show your love and support of Union Mill and click here to join today.
We are back in the swing of things at Union Mill this week and look forward to hosting our virtual PTA meeting tonight at 6:15 pm at the following Zoom Link. In addition, our winter strings concert is this evening at 7:00 pm.
As a reminder, schools and offices will be closed on Monday, January 20, for the Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday and the Presidential Inauguration.
Dominic, Jaime and Scott
The UMES Admin Team
#UMESBetterTogether
Upcoming Dates
Wednesday, January 15th - Strings Concert @ 7:00 pm (UMES)
- PTA Meeting
Monday, January 20th - Holiday (Martin Luther King Jr. & Inauguration Day)
Wednesday, January 29th - Teacher Workday, Student Holiday
Friday, February 7th - PTA Bingo Night
🗓️2025 Save the Dates
Thursday, February 20th - Kids Heart Challenge
Monday, February 24th - 3 Hour Early Release
Monday, March 17th - 3 Hour Early Release
Tuesday, April 1st - Unified Sports Event
Friday, April 4th - UMES v. CES Volleyball Game
Monday, April 14th - Friday, April 18th - Spring Break
Monday, April 21st - Friday, April 25th - Spring Book Fair
On the third Monday of January, people throughout the United States join in honoring the life and works of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. As we witness nations around the world continue to struggle under the weight of violence, hate, and poverty, today’s social, political, and economic landscape reveals the urgent necessity of Dr. King’s philosophy and methodology of Nonviolence (Nonviolence365™). This history is a foundational part of American history.
Students deserve meaningful, sustained opportunities to learn about the experiences and contributions of Dr. King year-round, and the celebration of a Day of Service is an opportunity to honor his work and legacy by actively participating in making our communities cleaner, safer, and more welcoming.
Valentines for Veterans and Active Duty Service Members!
Our UMES SCA is sponsoring a Valentine card project to make valentines for every military connected family member connected to our UMES students. If a member of your student’s family is connected to a military veteran or an active duty service member and you would like them to receive some valentines, please fill out this form. If you have multiple military connected family members, please fill out and submit a form for each member for who you wish to receive valentine cards.
Bundle up for Winter Recess
Winter is here, and we’re ready to keep recess safe and fun for everyone! Please take a moment to review our Cold Weather Recess Guidelines, based on recommendations from the National Weather Service (NWS):
Wind Chill Advisory: Outdoor recess will be a brisk 15 minutes max
Wind Chill Warning: Recess will move indoors for activities.
To keep everyone’s winter gear in check, please write your child’s name on their items (coats, hats, gloves, scarves, etc.). Our lost and found is overflowing, and labeled gear makes reunions much easier!
Thank you for helping us keep recess safe and warm this winter!
Photos for the Yearbook Wanted!
Do you have a couple of great shots of your student and other UMES students that would be perfect for the yearbook? Please upload it to http://www.YBKpix.com Use the school ID: 301716-2501
We are looking for photos that contain at least two or more students. They can be shots taken at the bus stop, here at school, at school evening events or even in the cafeteria at lunch. A submission of photos is not a guarantee the photo will be used but we will do our best.
Thank you for helping to make our yearbook a wonderful book of memories.
Attention Sixth Grade Parents:
In the next few weeks, your sixth grader will be completing the yearbook prompt, “My plans for the future are___.” Please have a conversation with your sixth grader about what they may want to write. This can be their post high school plans, their plans for their future as an adult or whatever you as a family decide. They are limited to 130 characters (that includes spaces) so they may want to type it out in a Google document to check their character count and to plan what they would like to say in the yearbook. Thank you!
Middle School Curriculum Nights
Rising 6th graders are invited to Liberty or Robinson for their curriculum nights. Due to the recent snowstorm, the Liberty Curriculum Night is rescheduled for Thursday, January 16th
These are great opportunities to learn about course offerings and the course selection process as students prepare to select classes for their first year of middle school!
It's time to order your 2024-2025 yearbook! Families may place orders at www.buytheyearbook.com (with school ID# 725178) or use the QR code below.Yearbooks are $15.70 each.
Don't miss your chance to order this year’s yearbook! There will not be extras available at the end of the year.
The deadline to order is April 22, 2025.
Early Release Mondays
As a reminder, the Centreville Pyramid, which includes Union Mill Elementary, will have the following three-hour early release days. On these days, students will be dismissed at 12:30 p.m.
Registration is now open to PTA members for Family Bingo Night on Friday, February 7th.
Membership
PTA Memberships are only good for one year. Members get PTA information first, discounts and benefits at PTA-sponsored events, and are the first to know about volunteer opportunities at the school!
Why Join?
Membership is only $15/year for a family and $7.50/year for an individual or staff member and shows you value our school community - students, staff and your fellow parents and caregivers. It’s a small investment - you spend more than that on Starbucks or gas every week! Show your love and support of Union Mill and click here to join today.
We are looking forward to welcoming your children back to school. We know our students and staff and we imagine families are eager for their kids to return. Our custodial crew has been hard at work the previous two days clearing sidewalks, walkways and putting down salt and sand to ensure the safety of students and staff.
Thank you in advance for everyone's patience on the first few days back as we anticipate a longer kiss and ride line. If you are looking to track where your child's bus is, FCPS offers the "Here Comes the Bus" mobile application.
In the event of a 2 hour delay, our doors will open at 10:35 am. Breakfast will be served. Please be sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing.
Looking ahead to 2025, we have some upcoming dates along with some "Save the Dates." In addition, if your child has a passion for STEM, Thomas Jefferson High School is hosting Techstravaganza on Saturday, May 17th. More information, including free registration can be found on their website and below.
Dominic, Jaime and Scott
The UMES Admin Team
#UMESBetterTogether
Upcoming Dates
Wednesday, January 15th - Clubs Photo Day
- Strings Concert @ 7:00 pm (UMES)
- PTA Meeting
Monday, January 20th - Holiday (Martin Luther King Jr. & Inauguration Day)
Wednesday, January 29th - Teacher Workday, Student Holiday
Friday, February 7th - PTA Bingo Night
🗓️2025 Save the Dates
Thursday, February 20th - Kids Heart Challenge
Monday, February 24th - 3 Hour Early Release
Monday, March 17th - 3 Hour Early Release
Tuesday, April 1st - Unified Sports Event
Friday, April 4th - UMES v. CES Volleyball Game
Monday, April 14th - Friday, April 18th - Spring Break
Monday, April 21st - Friday, April 25th - Spring Book Fair
FCPS’ website is generally the first place to find out about emergency weather closings. Other communication channels will be used as quickly as possible, including email, text, social media, and news stations. Learn more about how schedule changes are communicated.
Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities
We will monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories which may prevent children from being outside. Make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy their time outdoors. See the National Weather Service’s tips on staying safe during cold weather.
If you need assistance supplying your child with cold-weather clothing, please call Fairfax County's Coordinated Services Planning at 703-222-0880. Their multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health care.
Thomas Jefferson Techstravaganza
Saturday, May 17th
We represent the leadership of Tomorrow’s Women in Science and Technology (TWIST), a student organization at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST). Each year, we promote STEM through our annual flagship outreach event, Techstravaganza, and we would like to invite students to attend!
Techstravaganza is a free, public, hands-on STEM activity fair for elementary and middle school students in Northern Virginia. In previous years, we've hosted more than 4,500 students and 70 labs presenting STEM activities. Our exhibitors range from TJHSST clubs and our own TWIST volunteers to organizations like NASA SCaN, Art of Problem Solving, George Mason University, American Society of Naval Engineers, and the National Air and Space Museum. This year, we will be holding the 21st annual Techstravaganza on Saturday, May 17, 2024 from 10 AM to 4 PM at TJHSST.
Admission is free and food will be for sale. Here is our registration link.
More information about the event can be found on our website.
Attention Sixth Grade Parents:
In the next few weeks, your sixth grader will be completing the yearbook prompt, “My plans for the future are___.” Please have a conversation with your sixth grader about what they may want to write. This can be their post high school plans, their plans for their future as an adult or whatever you as a family decide. They are limited to 130 characters (that includes spaces) so they may want to type it out in a Google document to check their character count and to plan what they would like to say in the yearbook. Thank you!
Middle School Curriculum Nights
Rising 6th graders are invited to Liberty or Robinson for their curriculum nights. Due to the recent snowstorm, the Liberty Curriculum Night will be rescheduled.
These are great opportunities to learn about course offerings and the course selection process as students prepare to select classes for their first year of middle school!
Liberty Curriculum Night - Will be rescheduled
Once a date is finalized we will share with 6th grade families.
Robinson Curriculum Night - Wednesday, January 15th from from 5:00 to 8:00 pm
It's time to order your 2024-2025 yearbook! Families may place orders at www.buytheyearbook.com (with school ID# 725178) or use the QR code below.Yearbooks are $15.70 each.
Don't miss your chance to order this year’s yearbook! There will not be extras available at the end of the year.
The deadline to order is April 22, 2025.
Early Release Mondays
As a reminder, the Centreville Pyramid, which includes Union Mill Elementary, will have the following three-hour early release days. On these days, students will be dismissed at 12:30 p.m.
Registration is now open to PTA members for Family Bingo Night on Friday, February 7th.
Membership
PTA Memberships are only good for one year. Members get PTA information first, discounts and benefits at PTA-sponsored events, and are the first to know about volunteer opportunities at the school!
Why Join?
Membership is only $15/year for a family and $7.50/year for an individual or staff member and shows you value our school community - students, staff and your fellow parents and caregivers. It’s a small investment - you spend more than that on Starbucks or gas every week! Show your love and support of Union Mill and click here to join today.
Happy New Year! We are looking forward to welcoming your children back on Monday, January 6th. For anyone following the weather, it does look like we may get some snow early next week. As a reminder, the FCPS will make the announcement on their website and social media platforms. To learn more about how weather decisions are made, click here.
As we kick off 2025, we are excited to continue to support your children socially, emotionally and academically. As part of our School Improvement and Innovation Plan, we will continue to develop students communication and collaboration skills which are attributes of FCPS Portrait of a Graduate. Check out some of the photos below of Union Mill Bears in action with developing their communication and collaboration skills.
Dominic, Jaime and Scott
The UMES Admin Team
#UMESBetterTogether
Upcoming Dates
Monday, January 6th - Students return from Winter Break
Wednesday, January 15th - Clubs Photo Day
- Strings Concert @ 7:00 pm (UMES)
Monday, January 20th - Holiday (Martin Luther King Jr. & Inauguration Day)
Wednesday, January 29th - Teacher Workday, Student Holiday
FCPS’ website is generally the first place to find out about emergency weather closings. Other communication channels will be used as quickly as possible, including email, text, social media, and news stations. Learn more about how schedule changes are communicated.
Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities
We will monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories which may prevent children from being outside. Make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy their time outdoors. See the National Weather Service’s tips on staying safe during cold weather.
If you need assistance supplying your child with cold-weather clothing, please call Fairfax County's Coordinated Services Planning at 703-222-0880. Their multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health care.
School’s Closed, Learning Can Continue!
FCPS encourages students to take advantage of fun learning opportunities during Winter Break and snow days. Consider these winter activities to blend education and play for your students during Winter Break or weather-related school closures.
Union Mill Communicators and Collaborators
Attention Sixth Grade Parents:
In the next few weeks, your sixth grader will be completing the yearbook prompt, “My plans for the future are..” Please have a conversation with your sixth grader about what they may want to write. This can be their post high school plans, their plans for their future as an adult or whatever you as a family decide. They are limited to 130 characters (that includes spaces) so they may want to type it out in a Google document to check their character count and to plan what they would like to say in the yearbook. Thank you!
Middle School Curriculum Nights
Rising 6th graders are invited to Liberty or Robinson for their curriculum nights.
These are great opportunities to learn about course offerings and the course selection process as students prepare to select classes for their first year of middle school!
Liberty Curriculum Night - Wednesday, January 8th from 6:00 - 8:00 pm
It's time to order your 2024-2025 yearbook! Families may place orders at www.buytheyearbook.com (with school ID# 725178) or use the QR code below.Yearbooks are $15.70 each.
Don't miss your chance to order this year’s yearbook! There will not be extras available at the end of the year.
The deadline to order is April 22, 2025.
Early Release Mondays
As a reminder, the Centreville Pyramid, which includes Union Mill Elementary, will have the following three-hour early release days. On these days, students will be dismissed at 12:30 p.m.
It is certainly a busy time of year both in and out of school. We are extremely proud of our staff this week as they have continued to provide engaging and meaningful experiences for your children, reflect on data and plan for instruction for the new year. Below, we showcase a selection of photos from throughout the week that highlight the communication and collaboration skills demonstrated by students.
Thank you to our PTA for providing treats, gift cards and fun for our staff this week as part of our "Days of Cheer." The PTA will be meeting virtually this evening at 7:00 pm on the following link.
As a reminder, our December Family Fitness is after school tomorrow starting at 3:45 pm. More details below.
We hope everyone has a safe and happy Winter Break. We look forward to welcoming students back on Monday, January 6th. Our office will be open over break by appointment only. If you would like to make an appointment to come in, please click here to schedule an appointment.
Dominic, Jaime and Scott
The UMES Admin Team
#UMESBetterTogether
Upcoming Dates
December 19th - Family Fitness
December 20th - Union Mill SCA Plaid Day
December 23rd - January 3rd - Winter Break
January 6th - Students return from Winter Break
🗓️ Calendar Reminder: Winter Break
Winter Break will be from Monday, December 23, 2024, to Friday, January 3, 2025. No homework will be assigned over Winter Break.
Family Fitness will meet again on Thursday, December 19, from 3:45-4:45 pm. This month we will get to work on the gymnastic apparatus (vault, mats, climbing wall, and balance beams). We have some other fun activities planned as well. If you have any questions, please contact Mrs. Murray at jbmurray@fcps.com.
Student Council Association (SCA) Members are Communicators and Collaborators!
For the December meeting, SCA members worked in mixed grade level teams to accomplish goals. Their goals were to learn one another’s name and to work together as a team to stack cups using a rubber band and string. Each member in the group had to hold a string that was attached to the group’s rubber band. They worked together to open and close the rubber band to move the cups to form a stack of 6 and 10 cups! Afterwards, SCA members shared how they had to communicate and collaborate in order to move the rubber band and accomplish the group goal of stacking the cups! As student leaders, they know the importance of good communication and collaboration to accomplish group goals!
SCA Stuffed Animal Drive Success
Thank you to everyone who donated a stuffed animal to our SCA Great Big Cub Hugs stuffed animal drive. We collected 392 stuffed animals that will be bringing smiles to 392 children! Thank you!
Student Ambassadors at Work
Our UMES Student Ambassadors have been welcoming new students and families to Union Mill by providing tours to newly registered families. They are also collaborating with our SCA to develop a brochure to welcome new students and families.
Kindergarten Non-Standard Measurement
To go along with our gingerbread author visit, Mrs. Duncan and Mrs. Bowden's kindergartners practiced using nonstandard tools of measurement (construction paper gingerbread cookies) to see how many cookies tall they are!
Union Mill is Staying FIT! 🏃♀️💪
Join our Wellness Wednesday Challenge and get moving with us! Staying active is a great way to keep in shape, increase blood flow, and boost your heart rate.
We’d love to see you in action! Share a quick video clip of yourself doing an easy, no-equipment-needed exercise. Whether you’re inside or outside, just remember to wear your PE shoes and comfy clothing.
Your video might even be shared school-wide or with the community—get ready for your moment to shine! 🌟
Click here to upload your video and join the fun. If you have trouble uploading/sharing the video please email the video directly to Mrs. Tirado at mktirado@fcps.edu. Let’s stay active, Union Mill!
Community Resources for Families of Students with Disabilities
Save the Date: 2025 Family Summit
SEL Screener Results
New Accessibility Resources
Adapted Physical Education and Recreation Program
Why Some Students with Disabilities Stay in FCPS Until Age 22
VR Programs Supports Out-of-State Post Secondary Schools
Executive Functioning Webinars
Early Literacy Resources
ESY and Assessment Webinar
COVID-19 Compensatory Education: FCPS Service Delivery Options
SCA Plaid Day
Our next UMES Spirit Day is Friday, December 20th. Students and staff are encouraged to wear their favorite plaid or winter shirt.
School’s Closed, Learning Can Continue!
FCPS encourages students to take advantage of fun learning opportunities during Winter Break and snow days. Consider these winter activities to blend education and play for your students during Winter Break or weather-related school closures.
Rising 6th graders are invited to Liberty or Robinson for their curriculum nights.
These are great opportunities to learn about course offerings and the course selection process as students prepare to select classes for their first year of middle school!
Liberty Curriculum Night - Wednesday, January 8th from 6:00 - 8:00 pm
It's time to order your 2024-2025 yearbook! Families may place orders at www.buytheyearbook.com (with school ID# 725178) or use the QR code below.Yearbooks are $15.70 each.
Don't miss your chance to order this year’s yearbook! There will not be extras available at the end of the year.
The deadline to order is April 22, 2025.
Early Release Mondays
As a reminder, the Centreville Pyramid, which includes Union Mill Elementary, will have the following three-hour early release days. On these days, students will be dismissed at 12:30 p.m.
This morning, our Band delivered an absolutely incredible performance that filled the school with pride and excitement! Their dedication, teamwork, and passion for music were on full display, and we couldn’t be prouder of their efforts.
But the show is not over yet! We invite you to join us this evening at Liberty Middle School at 6:15 PM to experience their talent live. This is a wonderful opportunity to support our AMAZING band as they showcase the results of their hard work. Let’s come together to celebrate their success and make it a night to remember! 🎶✨
Dominic, Jaime and Scott
The UMES Admin Team
#UMESBetterTogether
Upcoming Dates
December 11th - Winter Band Concert @ Liberty Middle School
December 15th - Deadline for full-time Advanced Academic Screening
December 17th - New Hope Donation Drive
December 19th - Family Fitness
December 20th - Union Mill SCA Plaid Day
December 23rd - January 3rd - Winter Break
January 6th - Students return from Winter Break
🗓️ Calendar Reminder: Winter Break
Winter Break will be from Monday, December 23, 2024, to Friday, January 3, 2025. No homework will be assigned over Winter Break.
Family Fitness will meet again on Thursday, December 19, from 3:45-4:45 pm. This month we will get to work on the gymnastic apparatus (vault, mats, climbing wall, and balance beams). We have some other fun activities planned as well. If you have any questions, please contact Mrs. Murray at jbmurray@fcps.com.
Union Mill is Staying FIT! 🏃♀️💪
Join our Wellness Wednesday Challenge and get moving with us! Staying active is a great way to keep in shape, increase blood flow, and boost your heart rate.
We’d love to see you in action! Share a quick video clip of yourself doing an easy, no-equipment-needed exercise. Whether you’re inside or outside, just remember to wear your PE shoes and comfy clothing.
Your video might even be shared school-wide or with the community—get ready for your moment to shine! 🌟
Click here to upload your video and join the fun. If you have trouble uploading / sharing the video please email video directly to Mrs. Tirado at mktirado@fcps.edu. Let’s stay active, Union Mill!
Full-Time AAP Referral Window Reminder
Parents/guardians who would like their student to be considered for full-time Advanced Academic services may submit the Full-Time Referral Form (translations linked below) to the local school Advanced Academic Resource Teacher (AART) or principal no later than December 15, 2024. No late forms will be accepted.
Our next UMES Spirit Day is Friday, December 20th. Students and staff are encouraged to wear their favorite plaid or winter shirt.
New Hope Donation Drive
Union Mill will be hosting a drive-thru donation at the Kiss and Ride loop on December 17th from 5:30 - 6:30 pm. Donated items will be delivered to New Hope Housing. This donation is student driven to support families in need. Additional details including a list of items needed for donation can be found here.
Student Council Association (SCA): Stuffed Animal Collection
The UMES SCA is collecting new and gently used stuffed animals until December 20th. The stuffed animals will be donated to Great Big Cub Hugs. GBCH donates the stuffed animals to several organizations in the Hershey, Pennsylvania area, including the Teddy Bear Toss for Kids. Even though the name is Teddy Bear Toss, all types of stuffed animals (beanie baby size to size large and any type of animal) are accepted. Click here to see a photo of a previous Hockey Game Toss. There are collection boxes on the stage in the school lobby. Thank you for your donations!
Middle School Curriculum Nights
Rising 6th graders are invited to Liberty or Robinson for their curriculum nights.
These are great opportunities to learn about course offerings and the course selection process as students prepare to select classes for their first year of middle school!
Liberty Curriculum Night - Wednesday, January 8th from 6:00 - 8:00 pm
Robinson Curriculum Night - Wednesday, January 15th from from 5:00 to 8:00 pm
Centreville HS Baseball Camp and Softball Camp
Centreville High School will be offering a baseball camp and softball camp this January and February. Additional information including dates and times can be found at the links below.
It's time to order your 2024-2025 yearbook! Families may place orders at www.buytheyearbook.com (with school ID# 725178) or use the QR code below.Yearbooks are $15.70 each.
Don't miss your chance to order this year’s yearbook! There will not be extras available at the end of the year.
The deadline to order is April 22, 2025.
Early Release Mondays
As a reminder, the Centreville Pyramid, which includes Union Mill Elementary, will have the following three-hour early release days. On these days, students will be dismissed at 12:30 p.m.
Let’s come together to show our appreciation to the wonderful teachers and staff during this holiday time. We have approximately 120 teachers, staff, admin and custodians who provide a safe and caring environment for our students to learn each day. UMES PTA will be celebrating our teachers and staff during the December Days of Cheer with a “Gift Card Grab” raffle. We need your help filling our board with gift cards. Please consider donating a gift card(s) with a value of $5-$10 by December 13th. We have created an Amazon Wish List with some options or you are welcome to purchase gift card(s) elsewhere and drop them off in the UMES office.
Please put the card in an envelope and label it “UMES PTA Gift Card Donation.” Thank you in advance for your support!!
We hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving Break. We are looking to finish the calendar year strong over the next three weeks prior to Winter Break.
Yesterday, families should have received an eNotify message confirming their preference for the December 9th 3-hour early release. If there is a change, please complete the form included in the message.
Upcoming Dates
December 9th - 3-Hour Early Release
December 11th - Winter Band Concert @ Liberty Middle School
December 23rd - January 3rd - Winter Break
January 6th - Students return from Winter Break
ST Math Challenge
Union Mill Bears participated in the "ST Math Shoot for the Stars Challenge" in November. As a school, our goal was to double the number of puzzles solved on average and we did it! Congratulations to all mathematicians for their hard work.
Author Visit - Laura Murray
Yesterday our kindergarten and first graders were able to engage with Laura Murray, author of "The Gingerbread Man: New Friend on the Loose," "The Gingerbread Man: Paper Airplane" and various other graphic novels and picture books. Thank you to our PTA for the funding to support this experience for our kids.
Student Council Association (SCA): Stuffed Animal Collection
The UMES SCA is collecting new and gently used stuffed animals until December 20th. The stuffed animals will be donated to Great Big Cub Hugs. GBCH donates the stuffed animals to several organizations in the Hershey, Pennsylvania area, including the Teddy Bear Toss for Kids. Even though the name is Teddy Bear Toss, all types of stuffed animals (beanie baby size to size large and any type of animal) are accepted. Click here to see a photo of a previous Hockey Game Toss. There are collection boxes on the stage in the school lobby. Thank you for your donations!
Union Mill is Staying FIT! 🏃♀️💪
Join our Wellness Wednesday Challenge and get moving with us! Staying active is a great way to keep in shape, increase blood flow, and boost your heart rate.
We’d love to see you in action! Share a quick video clip of yourself doing an easy, no-equipment-needed exercise. Whether you’re inside or outside, just remember to wear your PE shoes and comfy clothing.
Your video might even be shared school-wide or with the community—get ready for your moment to shine! 🌟
Click here to upload your video and join the fun. Let’s stay active, Union Mill!
Discover the Rock Cycle in Action!
Mr. Williamson's 5th-grade science class is rocking it—literally! Students recently used Starbursts to model the different phases of the rock cycle, including weathering, erosion, melting, and cooling. This hands-on activity gave students an engaging way to explore how rocks transform over time while sparking rich discussions about the science behind the cycle.
FCPS’ website is generally the first place to find out about emergency weather closings. Other communication channels will be used as quickly as possible, including email, text, social media, and news stations. Learn more about how schedule changes are communicated.
Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities
We will monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories which may prevent children from being outside. Make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy their time outdoors. See the National Weather Service’s tips on staying safe during cold weather.
If you need assistance supplying your child with cold-weather clothing, please call Fairfax County's Coordinated Services Planning at 703-222-0880. Their multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health care.
Literacy Principal's Coffee
Thank you to all families who were able to attend last week's Principal's Coffee with a focus on literacy. Resources to support reading and writing at home can be found here.
Centreville High School will be offering a baseball camp and softball camp this January and February. Additional information including dates and times can be found at the links below.
It's time to order your 2024-2025 yearbook! Families may place orders at www.buytheyearbook.com (with school ID# 725178) or use the QR code below.Yearbooks are $15.70 each.
Don't miss your chance to order this year’s yearbook! There will not be extras available at the end of the year.
The deadline to order is April 22, 2025.
Early Release Mondays
Families should have received communication earlier this week regarding our next early release on Monday, December 9th. If you need to update your preference, please complete the form included in the letter. This will allow us to plan for staffing and student safety for our next early release.
As a reminder, the Centreville Pyramid, which includes Union Mill Elementary, will have the following three-hour early release days. On these days, students will be dismissed at 12:30 p.m.
We are grateful to serve your children each day. We are also thankful for all your support as partners in your children's education. We wish everyone in the Union Mill Community a safe and Happy Thanksgiving with friends and family.
As a reminder, Thanksgiving break is Wednesday, November 27th - Friday, November 29th. We look forward to welcoming students back on Monday, December 2nd.
Upcoming Dates
November 27th - November 29th - Thanksgiving Break
December 9th - 3-Hour Early Release
December 11th - Winter Band Concert
Thanksgiving Meal Drive
Thank you to our families and the PTA for contributing over 25 Thanksgiving meal boxes to our Give Thanks and Give Back Thanksgiving Meal Box Drive last week.
Union Mill Outstanding Employee Awards
Thank you to all families who nominated Union Mill Staff for outstanding awards. The below staff were recognized as UMES outstanding employees and will be moving on to the Centreville Pyramid selection process.
Hailey Chae: Outstanding New Teacher
Manda Tirado: Outstanding Teacher
Jessi Tong: Outstanding Operational Employee
Dominic Williams: Outstanding Leader
Scott Hawk: Outstanding New Principal
Literacy Principal's Coffee
Thank you to all families who were able to attend our Principal's Coffee on Monday with a focus on literacy. Resources to support reading and writing at home can be found here.
It's time to order your 2024-2025 yearbook! Families may place orders at www.buytheyearbook.com (with school ID# 725178) or use the QR code below.Yearbooks are $15.70 each.
Don't miss your chance to order this year’s yearbook! There will not be extras available at the end of the year.
The deadline to order is April 22, 2025.
Early Release Mondays
Families should have received communication earlier this week regarding our next early release on Monday, December 9th. If you need to update your preference, please complete the form included in the letter. This will allow us to plan for staffing and student safety for our next early release.
As a reminder, the Centreville Pyramid, which includes Union Mill Elementary, will have the following three-hour early release days. On these days, students will be dismissed at 12:30 p.m.
The PTA has opened an online spirit wear store and is taking orders until December 1. The store includes new options like long-sleeve t-shirts and sweatshirts…just in time for the winter months! Get those orders in ASAP in time for holiday gift giving! Union Mill PTA Spirit Wear Shop
Membership
PTA Memberships are only good for one year. Members get PTA information first, discounts and benefits at PTA-sponsored events, and are the first to know about volunteer opportunities at the school!
Why Join?
Membership is only $15/year for a family and $7.50/year for an individual or staff member and shows you value our school community - students, staff and your fellow parents and caregivers. It’s a small investment - you spend more than that on Starbucks or gas every week! Show your love and support of Union Mill and click here to join today.
Lots of exciting things happening as we approach 2025! If you have an interest in volunteering or learning more about any of our events, efforts, or volunteer opportunities, please email us at pta@unionmillpta.org.
