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Dear APS Families,
We look forward to welcoming new and returning students back to school in a few short days. As students come back to school, our focus is on knowing your child and ensuring every student feels welcome, valued and safe at school. During the first weeks of school, staff will spend time building relationships and getting to know each student’s strengths and needs as a foundation for their well-being, learning, and growth. Teachers will be providing a variety of lessons and activities to create a safe, caring and supportive environment.
Important Updates and Reminders:
Back-to-School Information: View our back-to-school resources, including reminders on how to access bus routes and schedules for your student in ParentVUE. Bus schedules are available for you to view now, and we also encourage bus-eligible APS families to download the new WherestheBus tool to track bus arrival times.
COVID Protocols for 2022-23: While most COVID-19 protocols have not changed since last school year, there are a few adjustments based on the latest guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Virginia Department of Health (VDH). Primary changes are related to contact tracing, quarantine and isolation procedures. View the updated COVID-19 Protocols and FAQ online. We will continue to adjust our protocols based on local conditions and the latest guidance, and will keep you informed throughout the year.
Immunizations Reminder: We have been sending notices to families who are missing required health forms or immunizations, so if you’ve received a call, text or email from APS related to immunizations, please check to ensure you have met all the requirements:
- New elementary students need: School Health Entrance Health Form and Tuberculosis (TB) Screening Form
- Rising 7th graders need: Tetanus/Diphtheria/Pertussis (Tdap), Meningococcal (MenACWY) and First dose HPV vaccine
- Rising 12th graders need: Meningococcal (MenACWY) booster (given after age 16)
Contact your school’s health clinic if you have questions about what your student is missing. Children can get most recommended vaccines at their pediatrician’s office, and many recommended vaccines are also available at local pharmacies. Arlington County’s Immunization Clinic may offer assistance and immunizations.
Stay Safe on Our Roads: Remember to use extra caution on our roadways as students head back to school August 29. Watch my PSA with the ACPD for reminders about traffic safety, as more walkers, bikers and buses are on the road early morning and late afternoon next week. Here are additional back-to-school safety tips. Thank you and have a great first week! Share your back-to-school photos with us on social media using #APSBack2School.
Sincerely,
Dr. Francisco Durán
Superintendent
Arlington Public Schools
