Friday Five: The World Meets at Gunston | Oct. 27, 2023

⏰ Today’s newsletter is 702 words, a 3-minute read.

1. Engage with APS: Learn About APS Long-Range Facility Planning

In preparation for the School Board’s FY 2025-34 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) Direction, APS has released the Facility Condition Assessment (FCA) Report to provide a systemwide evaluation to study 41 APS facilities. The FCA uses the framework and guidelines developed jointly by APS Facilities & Operations staff and the Advisory Council on School Facilities and Capital Programs (FAC). APS aims to provide optimal learning environments for all students, and this project’s goal is to identify and assess facilities that will allow APS leadership to prioritize future capital investments.

View the FCA Report to learn more about the condition of APS facilities as planning begins for the development of the FY 2025-34 CIP that will be presented in Spring 2024.

Read this week’s full Engage update.

2. “The World Meets at Gunston” Multicultural Night

Gunston Middle School hosted a Multicultural Night on Thursday!

The school’s gyms transformed into a global village, showcasing a vibrant tapestry of cultures through the Hall of Nations, art displays and student performances.
With support from the PTA, attendees savored an array of international dishes.
The evening featured engaging musical numbers by Mr. Divett’s band, compelling poetry by Mr. Sherrod and bilingual storytelling.
The heart of the night was undeniably our talented students, who shined in a lineup that included a dynamic fashion show and diverse dance routines—from African rhythms to the beats of El Salvador and Azerbaijan.

The lively music that closed out the night perfectly encapsulated the essence of Gunston’s inclusive community.

3. Halloween Safety Tips

It’s almost time for trick-or-treat and the Arlington County Police Department (ACPD) has a few tips to keep your students safe this Halloween season.

See and be seen! Select bright costumes, add reflective tape, carry flashlights and/or glow sticks.
Plan your trick-or-treating route. Stick to familiar neighborhoods and well-lit streets.
Younger children should be with a trusted adult.
Check candy before eating it.
Only visit homes with exterior lights on.

ACPD also encourages drivers to slow down and be extra cautious this Halloween season. Click here to see more safety tips.

4. Middle School Students Engage in Unity Day Challenge

During Bullying Prevention Month, several middle schools challenged one another to a contest in the spirit of unity and building a positive climate and culture.

Students wore orange on Unity Day earlier this month and participated in activities and a friendly challenge to take a stand against bullying and discrimination.
This highlights just one of the ways schools are participating in Bullying Prevention this month and throughout the year.
Our schools continue to instill values of kindness and respect to create safe spaces for all to learn. These values are important for all students and especially during their middle school years, which can be challenging for our students.

Watch this short video from Thomas Jefferson & Gunston Middle Schools on Unity Day.

5. Next Week: Emergency Preparedness Week

Beginning on Mon, Oct. 30, APS will hold its first annual safety week and will share information, resources and training opportunities to help all staff and families feel assured and informed regarding our safety plans and efforts to keep students, schools and our community safe.

To kick off the week’s activities, Durán’s weekly update will be sent on Monday instead of Wednesday.
Keep an eye on our APS social media platforms for daily safety-related tips.

To learn more about emergency preparedness at APS, visit our safety webpage.