Welcome to this week's update, drawing from the latest edition of The Feather Report, Volume 2, Issue 15. This newsletter arrives just before Thanksgiving Break, capping off an extremely active week at Westlawn.

In this episode, we’ll dive into a week filled with academic achievements and arts performances, look ahead to essential holiday logistics, and offer expert advice on navigating technology purchases.

First, the highlights from the school: What a week it was! Westlawn students made the most of their first five-day November week. Second through sixth graders enjoyed a presentation from Dr. George Nield about his experiences in space exploration. The Westlawn Chorus and Instrumental Ensemble performed A Night of Music on Tuesday, featuring special guests, the Virginia Bronze Handbell Ensemble. The school also hosted its annual Thanksgiving Luncheon for over 300 parents and family members. We'll also tell you how you can get free concert tickets from the Virginia Bronze Handbell Ensemble for their December Your Favorite Things concert series.

Looking Ahead: Thanksgiving Break is next week, running from Wednesday, November 26, through Friday, November 28. We also have exciting news about the Scholastic Book Fair, running December 8-12. The newsletter provides details on setting up a convenient eWallet for your child and how you can contribute to "Share the Fair," a community fund that helps students buy books. We’ll also mention how you can check out the updated Westlawn PTA page and join today.

We also have important community updates, including a reminder that free Thanksgiving meals for adults and students are available on November 24 and 25 at various FCPS high schools. Plus, we’ll share the great news that Westlawn is now 66% of the way toward its plastic recycling goal, having collected 662 pounds of plastic film.

Expert Corner: In the Tech Talk section, we break down valuable tips for parents planning to buy technology as gifts. Whether you're considering smart watches or video games, the newsletter offers guidance on matching devices to your child's age, checking parental controls and privacy settings, choosing durable items, and, most importantly, creating boundaries and expectations before the package is opened. Parents of students in grades 1-6 should also stay tuned for an upcoming in-person session focused on helping families utilize technology resources at home.

Finally, we recognize a dedicated team member in the Soaring Staff Spotlight: Jimmy Honnold, a special educator for 5th and 6th graders.

Stay tuned for all these details, plus information on Advanced Academic Program services, winter weather preparation, and the FCPS ACE Black Friday Sale. Every day counts, and the community's commitment shows, with the current absentee rate down over 3% from last year!