Lower School Newsletter – February 5, 2025
February 5, 2025
Letter From the Division Director
Even as winter has kept us indoors for the past few weeks, the energy and engagement within our classrooms and hallways have remained as vibrant as ever! Our students continue to embrace meaningful learning experiences that challenge their thinking, spark creativity, and foster collaboration.
Our 6th graders brought the Periodic Table of Elements to life with an incredible 3D model, constructed in the Innovation Lab, now on display on the 4th floor. Their hands-on exploration showcases not only their understanding of chemistry but also their ability to think critically and work together — hallmarks of a Flint Hill student.
Meanwhile, our 5th graders took center stage with their lively and expressive Readers' Theater performances. Their hard work and enthusiasm shined as they brought stories to life through voice and movement, demonstrating the power of storytelling and the confidence that comes with it.
One of the most heartwarming moments of January was when our JK-5th Grade students welcomed their Senior Buddies to the Lower School. These cross-divisional connections remind us of the strong sense of community at Flint Hill, where students of all ages learn from and support one another. Watching our older students serve as role models while our younger learners embraced these friendships with joy and curiosity was truly inspiring.
Looking ahead, we are excited to celebrate Valentine’s Day on Friday, February 14! To mark the occasion, students are invited to wear a color they love as a fun way to express themselves. Additionally, students may bring Valentine’s Day cards to share with each of their classmates, fostering kindness and connection within their classrooms.
For families using Yay Lunch — service begins the week of February 18. If you haven’t already, please be sure to sign up to receive a link to order online. Families can place their first order by selecting Lunch Calendar and scrolling to the week of February 17-21. Thank you for your continued partnership in your child’s learning journey. Wishing you all a wonderful week ahead!
In Gratitude,
Jess Henry
Director of the Lower School
Announcements
Completed 2025-26 Enrollment Contracts Due Tomorrow
Your completed and signed 2025-26 enrollment contract and non-refundable deposit are due by Thursday, February 6, in order to secure your child’s placement for next year. Please contact admission@flinthill.org or 703.584.2314 with any questions.
Yay Lunch Calendar Is Now Available! Service Begins Tuesday, February 18
Parents can now check out your lunch calendar! Those interested in the program must sign up with Yay Lunch to receive their weekly email, sent every Thursday, featuring lunch menus for the following week. Orders can be placed anytime before Sunday, with the flexibility to choose meals for the entire week or just specific days.
If you have questions about the ordering process or Yay in general, check our Yay FAQs or email info@theyaycompany.com.
Reserve Tickets for "Murder in the Knife Room"
Support our Middle School cast and crew and reserve your tickets here for “Murder in the Knife Room” on Thursday, February 20, 7:00-9:00 p.m., and Friday, February 21, 4:30-6:30 p.m.
The play is a comedic, over-the-top whodunit filled with quirky characters, hilarious twists, and playful satire. While it spoofs classic murder mysteries, the show is lighthearted and age-appropriate, with no graphic content — just exaggerated drama, silly suspects, and plenty of laughs.
Parent Education Series Event: Essential Conversations — Tuesday, February 25
Join us in the Middle School on Tuesday, February 25, 7:00-8:30 p.m., for an essential conversation with the founders of I Have The Right To on how to support children and teens in navigating consent, healthy relationships, and personal safety. Alex and Susan Prout will share their powerful story and the critical lessons they wish they had known as parents. The presentation will also provide insight into what Upper School students have been learning in school workshops, including recognizing red flags, setting boundaries, and understanding the neurobiology of trauma.
From Director of Counseling Tracie Epes: "It’s never too early to teach consent and healthy relationships. In the Lower School, we help students understand their own boundaries and the importance of respecting others. They learn effective communication strategies, like active listening and using 'I' statements, while building healthy, positive friendships. Raising awareness fosters empathy, boosts confidence, and strengthens social skills. We hope to see Lower School parents at this event!" Reserve your seat!
Share with Family & Friends: Upcoming Admission Coffee Event
Do you know a family who might be interested in Flint Hill? Ask them to join us at 29th Parallel Coffee in Vienna for Coffee Chat: Ask a Flint Hill Parent on Wednesday, February 19, 8:30-10:00 a.m. Prospective parents are invited to join us for informal conversations with current parents to learn more about academics, athletics, or student life in a relaxed setting — and have a coffee or tea on us! If you’re interested in helping with Admission events like this one, email admission@flinthill.org and let us know!
Reminders
Parent Walking Group — Friday, February 7
Bundle up and walk with fellow parents on Friday, February 7, 8:15-9:15 a.m., through different trails and neighborhoods near the School. The location will be shared with the group before the walk. Register here. If you have any questions, please contact Middle School Divisional Ambassador Molisa Meholic P’29.
Valentine's Day at the Lower School — Friday, February 14
Friday, February 14, is "Wear the Colors You Love" Day at the Lower School! Students are encouraged to dress in their favorite colors but should remember to wear sneakers for break, PE, and recess.
Students may exchange Valentine’s cards but are asked not to bring gifts, favors, or treats/food. If your child plans to participate, please ensure they bring a card for every member of their homeroom. You can find a roster of your child’s homeroom on Husky Hub.
Dads Meetup at Topgolf — Tuesday, February 18
Connect with fellow dads while enjoying some friendly competition at Topgolf Loudoun on Tuesday, February 18, 6:00-8:00 p.m. While this event is an opportunity for dads to form and maintain connections, truly all are welcome. Parent meetups are open to all JK-12 parents and guardians. Special thanks to Divisional Ambassador Mani Qazi P’29 for hosting and Lion Federal for sponsoring this meetup! Location Details: Topgolf Loudoun: 20356 Commonwealth Center Dr, Ashburn, VA 20147.
Register here and contact Olivia Landrum with any questions.
Major Minors Concert — Wednesday, February 19
Join the Major Minors, Flint Hill’s award-winning a cappella group, for their annual concert on Wednesday, February 19, 7:00-9:00 p.m., in the Upper School Commons. The concert is free, and your attendance is a great way to show support to our wonderfully talented student singers!
Grades JK-3 Classroom Visits — Friday, February 21
On Friday, February 21, 8:15-8:45 a.m., Parents are welcomed into specialists' classrooms where students will share what they are learning.
FH Community Weekend: One School, Many Stories — February 21-22
Celebrate the experiences that help us grow as individuals and as a school! The schedule for One School, Many Stories includes the Communities of Color Reception (co-sponsored by the Kaleidoscope Book Club) on Friday, February 21, and the Community Conversations: Morning of Dialogue and the following Community Festival events on Saturday, February 22.
RSVP to let us know you’re coming! Interested in volunteering? Please contact Director of Institutional Equity and Inclusion Mia Burton or All-School Equity and Inclusion Coordinator Miles Henderson.
Parent Meetup: What Is Your Story? Workshop — Thursday, February 27
Join Inspire founder, author, community-builder, and alumni parent Alysia Dempsey P’20, ’23 for this special workshop for parents on Thursday, February 27, 8:30-9:30 a.m. at the Oakton Starbucks, 2930 Chain Bridge Rd.
According to Alysia, What Is Your Story? is an inspiring workshop enabling participants of all ages to share their story and discover the story of others in their own community and communities around the world. Let’s inspire everyone regardless of race, gender, religion, age, or orientation to have a voice and to be authentically themselves and write their own stories. We must plant seeds of love, peace, empathy, kindness, and compassion today that will inspire a celebration of diverse stories in our community and around the world for future generations. We are part of one human race. Our stories can inspire each other.
Alysia will also be hosting a workshop at the Community Festival on Saturday, February 22, so there are two opportunities to participate!
Register here and contact Olivia Landrum with questions.
Step Up to Middle School: 6th Grade Parent Website
We’re excited to welcome our 6th graders to the Middle School next year! Get all the information you need on the new Step Up to Middle School webpage. The page includes answers to frequently asked questions, short videos related to the Middle School, links to resources, and a calendar of upcoming step-up events.
Make a Difference! Volunteer in the Igloo
Help keep the Igloo running by signing up for a shift! We need volunteers to open each day. Upper School students can volunteer for basketball games, too! Invite a friend to join you, and sign up for as many shifts as you'd like. Volunteer in the Igloo
Upcoming Events
2025-26 Enrollment Contracts Due
Thursday, February 6
Parent Meetup: Walking Group
Friday, February 7
8:15-9:15 a.m.
Register to Attend
Grades JK-12 No Classes: Professional Development Day
Monday, February 10
Learning Center Parent Coffee
Tuesday, February 11
Upper School Multipurpose Room, 8:30-9:30 a.m.
Flint Hill Day
Thursday, February 13
Upper School Gym, 1:15-2:15 p.m.
Grades JK-12 No Classes: Presidents’ Day
Monday, February 17
Dads Meetup at Topgolf
Tuesday, February 18
6:00-8:00 p.m.
Location: Topgolf Loudoun: 20356 Commonwealth Center Dr, Ashburn, VA 20147
Register to Attend
Major Minors Concert
Wednesday, February 19
Upper School Commons, 7:00-9:00 p.m.
Middle School Play, “Murder in the Knife Room”
Thursday, February 20, 7:00-9:00 p.m.
Friday, February 21, 4:30-6:30 p.m.
Hazel Lower School Olson Theater
Reserve Tickets
Grades JK-3 Classroom Visits
Friday, February 21
Hazel Lower School Classrooms, 8:15-8:45 a.m.
FH Community Festival Weekend: One School, Many Stories
Friday, February 21 - Saturday, February 22
Communities of Color Reception (co-sponsored by the Kaleidoscope Book Club)
Friday, February 21
Peterson Middle School Lobby, 7:00-9:00 p.m.
Reserve Your Seat
Community Conversations: Morning of Dialogue
Saturday, February 22
Upper School Learning Commons, 9:00-11:30 a.m.
Reserve Your Seat
Community Festival
Saturday, February 22
Upper School Commons, 12:00-2:00 p.m.
Reserve Your Seat
Parent Education Series: Essential Conversations
Tuesday, February 25
Peterson Middle School Mitchell Commons, 7:00-8:30 p.m.
Reserve Your Seat
Parent Meetup: What Is Your Story? Workshop
Thursday, February 27
8:30-9:30 a.m.
Location: The workshop will be held at Starbucks in Oakton, 2930 Chain Bridge Rd.
Register to Attend
Kaleidoscope Parent Book Club
Monday, March 3
Peterson Middle School Room 204, 8:30-9:30 a.m.
Uniform and Spirit Wear Drop Off
Monday, March 3 - Friday, March 7
