Good Evening Tiger Family,
I hope you all enjoyed a peaceful and restorative Thanksgiving Break. As we return and step into December, we're excited to continue to the great work happening across our FAMILY OF LEARNERS.
This time of year is a natural moment for reflection and renewed focus. Our students have made tremendous progress, and we're truly grateful for your partnership and support.
Here are a few important announcements and updates for the week ahead:
After-School Clubs
After-school clubs will meet this Wednesday 12/3 from 3:00-4:30 PM. Only students who have previously signed up for a club may attend.
Quarter 2 Benchmark Testing
Quarter 2 Benchmark Testing begins on Tuesday, December 9. This is a great opportunity for students to show what they've learned so far. Please encourage your child to spend some time reviewing their class notes and materials this week so they feel confident and prepared.
Also, remind them to bring a fully charged laptop each day—they'll need it to show their growth and hard work.
For more information, please see the testing calendar linked to this email message.
School Closing and Delays
As we approach the winter season, we want to ensure that you have access to important information regarding school closures and delays. Please see the attached link to our school division wesbite that provides various ways to stay informed about the weather's impact on our schools.
School Closures and Delays Link
Upcoming Dates to Remember
12/1: December School Board Meeting at 7:30 PM at Walker-Grant Center
12/3: Afterschool Clubs Meeting
12/9: Winter Sports Pictures
12/9: Winter Band Concert at 7:00 PM in the WGMS Auditeria
12/9 - 12/19: Q2 Benchmark Testing (Q2 Benchmark Testing Calendar)
12/10: Winter Orchestra Concert at 7:00 PM at JM
12/11: December PTO Meeting at 6:30 PM in the Media Center
12/12: Winter Choir Concert at 7:00 PM in the WGMS Auditeria
12/13: Community Toy Drive from 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM in the WGMS Gym
12/15: Winter Recruitment Concert at GWES, HMES, and LES
12/17: Last Afterschool Clubs Meeting of First Semester
12/19: End of Second Nine Weeks
12/22 - 1/2: Winter Break (No School for Students or Staff)
1/5: No School for Students (Staff Workday)
1/6: School Reopens and Second Semester Begins
1/8: January PTO Meeting at 6:30 PM in the Media Center
1/23: Parent Teacher Conferences from 4:30 - 6:30 PM
A few reminders as we wrap up 2025...
Attendance Matters
We know this is a busy season, but consistent attendance helps students stay on track academically and socially. Please continue to inform us of any absences due to illness or unforeseen circumstances.
Attendance Notes
Late Work & Homework Guidelines
If you haven't already, please take a moment to review our updated schoolwide Late Work Guidelines and WGMS Homework Guidelines. Full details on expectations and procedures are available in the linked documents below.
WGMS Late Work Guidelines W-GMS Late Work Guidelines
Homework Protocols and Expectations
Support & Outreach
If your family is experiencing hardship this season, please reach out to our school counseling team and/or social worker. We are here to support you and can help connect you with resources.
You can find information about community organizations and services — including food, housing, and family support — on our website: Local Resources to Know | Fredericksburg City Public Schools
Athletics
Come out and cheer on our Tiger student-athletes this week!
Boys’ Basketball:
12/2: vs. F.T. Binns – HOME, 4:30 PM
12/4: vs Caroline – AWAY, 5:00 PM
Reminder: Students may not stay after school to attend athletic events unless accompanied by a supervising adult.
Spirit Gear
Show your Tiger pride with our school spirit gear! Grab yours today and wear it proudly. Tigers Win!
Title I
Title I is the largest federal aid program for elementary, middle, and high schools. Through Title I, the federal government designates money to school districts around the country based on the number of students in need in each district. Each district uses its Title I money for extra educational services for children, such as:
Class size reduction
Additional teachers and paraprofessionals
Parent resources
Instructional materials and supplies
Tier 2 and Tier 3 support services
The focus of the Title I program is to ensure all students meet challenging content and achievement standards. Title I also authorizes federal grant programs that provide funds for reading instruction, services to migrant children, services to neglected and delinquent children, comprehensive school reform, and dropout prevention.
All FCPS students in grades K-8 are eligible to receive programs funded through the Title I grant.