The "Westlawn Feather Report: Volume 2, Issue 11" celebrates a busy and successful week at Westlawn, highlighting the power of exposure for students through various activities. Recent events included Picture Day, a field trip to the Annapolis Maritime Museum for Young Scholars where they used equipment like a refractometer to check water salinity, and a trip to GMU for students in the mentoring program. This commitment to exposure is reflected in Westlawn’s implementation of AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination), now in its second year as a school-wide structure designed to prepare all students for college and career success. Students in grades 5-6 continue to practice organization using agenda planners and binders, while grades 3-4 have begun using agendas and developing organizational skills. Academically, the report thanks families for supporting the laptop initiative and encourages children in grades 1-6 to log in daily for 20–30 minutes to engage with computer-adaptive programs like Lexia, ST Math, and Summit K12, which are designed to enhance learning and close gaps. Looking ahead, two early releases are scheduled for the following week: Wednesday, October 29 (12:30 PM dismissal), and Friday, October 31 (1:30 PM dismissal), which also marks the annual Book Character Dress Up Day.

In terms of community and operations, the newsletter shares several important reminders and resources. Due to changes in school cleaning protocols from the Office of Safety and Security, disinfectant wipes have been removed from school supply lists, and families may wish to send personal disinfectant or health-related products with their children. Parents are also encouraged to utilize upcoming free immunization clinics provided by FCPS and Inspire Health Alliance in November, offering school-required immunizations and optional flu shots. The report requests community support for two vital initiatives: submitting photos of family members who have served in the military to Mr. Stuebner by October 31 for the Veterans Day Banner, and completing the Federal Impact Aid Survey via SIS ParentVUE, which is expected to secure approximately $4 million in funding for all Fairfax County public schools. Finally, with October 27-31 designated as United States Media Literacy Week, families are invited to explore media literacy resources and engage in activities, such as playing the "Fake or Real?" game, to help children develop critical thinking skills regarding digital content.