Friday 5 for October 15, 2021

1. APS and Amazon to Launch Think Big Space

APS and Amazon are launching a Think Big Space at Wakefield High School! This innovative educational space will provide interactive learning experiences, grounded in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) and robotics, for students at Wakefield and across Arlington. Wakefield High School is the second AWS (Amazon Web Services) Think Big Space in Virginia. Construction has begun on the AWS Think Big Space and this new educational space for students is expected to launch by the end of the year. Learn more about the new space here.

2. APS Kicks Off Boundary Process Community Engagement This Weekend

APS is preparing for a limited boundary process to balance enrollment and utilize instructional spaces across neighboring school facilities. Adjustments will be made between Abingdon and Dr. Charles R. Drew Elementary Schools, Gunston and Jefferson Middle Schools, and Wakefield and Washington-Liberty High Schools for the Fall of 2022. APS will hold Virtual Community Meetings beginning Sat, Oct. 16 for families starting at 11 a.m. For additional details and times, visit the Fall 2021 Boundary Process Engage webpage.

3. Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Opportunities – Student Services Newsletter

Check out the October Newsletter from the Office of Student Services here. In October, APS staff will continue to focus on the SEL theme of Relationship Skills through activities and lessons. We also recognize October as Bullying and Substance Abuse Prevention Month. We are offering several free trainings for parents to learn more about the new marijuana laws in Virginia, how to help prevent child abuse, and how to best support the mental health of youth.

4. What Do You Love About School Lunch?

This week was National School Lunch Week and the theme for this year is “Wild About School Lunch!” Students from across the district were featured on our social media platforms sharing their favorite school lunch meals. Students at our elementary schools report they love APS school lunch sandwiches, chicken nuggets, fresh fruit, mac and cheese, grilled cheese, apples, and more! APS serves well over 19,000 meals per day on average. To see more, follow APS on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

5. VIDEO: Watch the Cardinal Elementary Student Performances and Ribbon Cutting

Cardinal Elementary School celebrated its ribbon cutting ceremony on Oct. 1! Students, staff and members of the APS community attended the event. Dr. Durán said during his remarks that the occasion marked more than just opening the building, rather it is the celebration of new beginnings for the students and staff at Cardinal. Students from each grade level performed chants and songs during the ceremony before the red ribbon was officially cut. Watch the event here.   

Other News & Notes

• Celebrate Hispanic Heritage – Sat Oct 16 at Central Libray!
• Internet Service Assistance for APS Families
• School Board Appoints New Virtual Learning Program Principal
• School Board Member Reid Goldstein to Host Virtual Open Office Hours on Mon, Oct. 18
• 14 School Board Highlights
• Monday Parent Resource Center Message
• October is Bullying Prevention Month – Resources