Thoreau Middle: Growth Continues
Yusef Azimi, Principal, Thoreau Middle School:
When we open our doors at Thoreau on Monday, Aug. 26, we will welcome well over 1,300 students to the 2019-2020 school year. The major renovation/expansion finalized last year coincided with significant enrollment growth for our school as we welcomed 260+ new students as a result of a boundary change designed to relieve Luther Jackson Middle School’s overcrowded student population. This year we are excited to welcome 120+ new students which is a valuable opportunity for all of our students to form new friendships and get involved in the many activities we offer. Our outstanding faculty is ready to foster opportunities for community building in their classrooms as relationships with our students is at the heart of our work at Thoreau. This year we will continue focusing on the executive functioning skills of our students and creating authentic learning opportunities through project-based learning.
Finally, I invite our parents and guardians to please attend our Back-to-School Night on Wednesday, Sept. 4 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. This parent-only event provides the Thoreau faculty the opportunity to share valuable information about the curriculum, classroom procedures, and special events.
I am looking forward to a school year of growth and opportunities for our Golden Eagles.
Honored by Highest Achievement Award
Teresa Khuluki, Principal, Wolftrap Elementary:
Wolftrap Elementary is beginning its 51st year with exciting news. In June, the Virginia Department of Education awarded 52 schools in Virginia the 2019 Board of Education Highest Achievement Award. Three of these schools are in Fairfax County Public Schools, and we are thrilled that Wolftrap Elementary was one of those three. The exemplary achievement of our students is due to the dedication of our teachers and parents working in partnership together for the success of each child.
As classes begin, Wolftrap staff and students have a number of initiatives planned. These include the creation of a student-led Eco Schools team to increase opportunities for students to participate in environmental stewardship. We will continue our implementation of the Positivity Project which focuses on helping students build strong relationships by recognizing positive character strengths in themselves and others. In addition, Wolftrap will be focusing on increasing the use of Advanced Academic resources with all students, strengthening students’ communication skills, and utilizing Project-Based Learning at all levels.
Thanks to our dedicated PTA, the school year will kick off with its annual celebration called Wolftrap Under the Stars. This relaxing evening is an opportunity for families to reconnect after the summer holidays and enjoy music and games.
I am looking forward to a fantastic school year.