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Principal's Message

Greetings Tiger Families!

As the final weeks of the school year approach (only 20 more days!), there is unmistakable energy and excitement filling the halls of Twain. We are so proud of the growth our students have shown since August, and we are looking forward to celebrating their hard work with our upcoming end-of-year festivities. It is a wonderful time to reflect on our collective achievements and enjoy the vibrant community spirit that makes being a Tiger so special.

Additionally, while the finish line is in sight, I want to emphasize the importance of making sure that finish is strong. Just as our track athletes make a final push at the end their race, we expect our students to do the same with our school year. We ask for your support in encouraging your students to maintain their attendance and focus, put forth their best effort in their remaining assignments, and continue making positive decisions every day. Each day is an opportunity for them to represent themselves, their family, and our school in a positive light. Let’s work together to ensure that our school year concludes on a high note, characterized by the same excellence and Tiger pride that we’ve demonstrated all year long. Thank you for your continued partnership!

Please note we have one remaining SOL exam next week – our Science 8 exam on Wednesday, May 20th. Good luck to our 8th graders and anyone making up or retaking an SOLs!

Sincerely,

Matt

Twain’s Weekly Schedule 

Monday, May 18: Anchor Day Schedule

Tuesday, May 19: Odd Day Schedule

Wednesday, May 20: Even Day Schedule - Science SOL, Modified Bell Schedule

Thursday, May 21: Odd Day Schedule

Friday, May 22: Even Day Schedule

Modified Bell Schedule for May 20 Science SOL

4th period: 7:30 - 9:31 - Science SOL

8th period: 9:35 - 10:51

2nd period: 10:55 - 12:55 (Lunch)

6th period: 12:59 - 2:15

After School Program

1 st Block

    2 nd Block

Monday, May 18: 

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Tuesday, May 19:   

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Wednesday, May 20: 

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Thursday, May 21: 

Open Gym Only

    No Buses Available

Friday, May 22: 

No After School

    Program

Please note that the After School Program for the 2025-2026 school year will end on Thursday, May 21.

Calendar Reminders: Memorial Day, Teacher Workday, Eid al-Adha Memorial Day (Holiday)

All schools and offices will be closed on Monday, May 25, for the Memorial Day holiday. 

Teacher Workday

Tuesday, May 26, is a teacher workday. There is no school for students. 

Eid al-Adha (Holiday)

Wednesday, May 27, is a holiday for Eid al-Adha, and schools and offices are closed. 

See the complete school year calendar .

Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Update

Last Friday, Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid provided an update on the Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 Budget. FCPS receives the majority of its funding from the Fairfax County Government and the Commonwealth of Virginia. 

The Fairfax County Government recently adopted its FY 2027 Budget, and at the funding levels provided, there is currently a $28 million budget gap. In addition, the state budget has not been finalized. At last Thursday's School Board meeting, the superintendent proposed adjustments that would balance the FCPS budget. 

Read Dr. Reid’s message to the community for more information on the budget process and budget priorities .

Finish the School Year With Strong Attendance!

As we enter the final weeks of the school year, FCPS appreciates your continued partnership in supporting your child’s success. Regular attendance plays an important role in helping students stay engaged in learning, maintain connections with their teachers and peers, and finish the school year strong. 

Attending school consistently also helps students build valuable habits such as responsibility, perseverance, and daily routines that support success both in and out of the classroom.

If your child needs to miss school, please remember to report the absence. Full-day absences can be reported in ParentVUE . Families may also report absences by calling the school attendance line or emailing the school-designated attendance email address.

If your child is experiencing challenges that are affecting attendance, we are here to help. Please contact your child’s school so staff can partner with you to provide support and resources. Learn more about FCPS attendance resources .

New Cellphone Policy Starts July 1

On Thursday, May 7, the Fairfax County School Board approved changes to the FCPS Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R) . The approved changes include updated guidance for cellphone possession and use, to align the FCPS cell phone policy with Senate Bill 108 . This new Virginia law goes into effect on July 1 and states that all schools in the Commonwealth must follow a “bell-to-bell” phone-free policy.

This means that starting July 1, 2026, across all grade levels at FCPS, student cellphones, phone accessories, and all smart devices (including watches that serve a dual purpose, such as smart watches, as well as earbuds, headsets, smart glasses, and other other items connected to the internet) must be off and personally stored (i.e., put away in backpacks) for the duration of the school day — thus, no cellphones from bell to bell. 

High school students will no longer be able to use cellphones and personal devices during lunchtime.More details are available on the FCPS Cell Phone Policy webpage . 

Other SR&R Changes for the 2026-27 School Year

Visit the FCPS website or the School Board agenda to learn about additional updates, including:

• Added guidance and procedures for in-school and out-of-school suspensions and discipline investigations, including supports for students with disabilities and multilingual learners. 
• Expanded guidance and standardized disciplinary procedures (“Universal Grade Matrices”) related to harassment, hate speech, discriminatory behavior, and Title IX reporting requirements.

Responses to incidents involving intimate images, fighting, physical aggression, object throwing, and drug policy violations

Edison High School Freshman Orientation – Class of 2030

We are excited to support your student’s transition to high school! For the third year, Edison High School is offering an optional Jump Start program for rising 9th-grade students.

Program Details:

Date:Tuesday, July 28th

Time:9:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Location:Edison High School

During this session, students will:

✔️ Meet staff members, including administrators, counselors, and teachers

✔️ Tour the school building

✔️ Receive tips for high school success

✔️ Learn about our wide range of sports and club opportunities

✔️ Receive lunch and Edison Eagle Pride T-shirt

Please note:Transportation will not be provided.

We look forward to welcoming the Class of 2030!

Save the Date:Registration will open on May 27th and a link will be located on the Edison website for those interested in our Jumpstart program. Please contact Greg Dombrowski: [email protected] or Ellen Hagan: [email protected] for further information.

4700 Franconia Rd, Alexandria, VA 22310   |  Main: 703.313.3700
Attendance: 703.313.3737 | After-School Program: 703.313.3711
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PTA Updates MAY MEMBERSHIP MEETING - TONIGHT:

Please join us tonight for the March membership meeting.  Please register here.

TWAIN COMMUNITY NIGHT - TOMORROW:

The Twain PTA is excited to partner with the Mark Twain MS administration, teachers, and staff to welcome our school community to this annual event. Open to current students, new families, and rising 7th graders from our feeder elementary schools, it’s a fun, engaging evening for students and parents alike. The PTA would like to thank our Twain Community Night Event Sponsors, The Kingstowne Cat Clinic and Shoshanna Tanner .

The event will take place tomorrow, May 14th, from 6:00–8:00 PM. We are seeking volunteers to help sell spirit wear, run the raffle, and manage concessions. If you would like to volunteer, please sign up here .

STAFF APPRECIATION UPDATE - THANK YOU!

Thank you, Twain families and community, for your incredible support during Staff Appreciation Week!  Because of your generosity, we met our gift card goal and treated our amazing staff throughout the week. Staff especially enjoyed the delicious Chipotle lunch on Friday and truly felt appreciated by the Twain community. Thank you for helping us celebrate all those who support our students every day!

EDISON PHYSICAL NIGHT:

Attention rising 9th graders interested in playing high school sports!

Don’t miss this opportunity to complete your required sports physical for the upcoming school year while supporting the student-athletes of Thomas A. Edison High School.

This event is more than just a convenience for athletes — it is the Athletic Training Program’s primary fundraiser. Proceeds from the event help stock the athletic training room with essential supplies, including tape, bandages, rehabilitation equipment, and other resources that keep athletes safe, healthy, and ready to compete throughout the year.

By participating, athletes will:

•     Complete their VHSL-required sports physical for the entire 2026–2027 school year
•     Support the Athletic Training Program and the care provided to student-athletes every day
•     Receive a convenient, low-cost physical before fall sports begin

Event Details

📅 Wednesday, May 20  🕠 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM  📍 Thomas A. Edison High School  💲 Pre-registration: $50  💲 Walk-ins: $60

The registration link can be found below and in the Athletic Training Program Instagram bio: @edison_atp

Athlete Registration

2026-2027 PTA BOARD:

Twain PTA Officer Elections are just around the corner - and we need YOU!

We’re looking for passionate leaders in our community to step forward and help continue the strong tradition of supporting our amazing MTMS staff and enriching the student experience for all.

Several key positions are still open for the next school year:

•     President
•     Vice President of Fundraising
•     Secretary

Families of both rising 7th- and 8th-graders are eligible. Know someone who would be a great fit? Maybe it’s you!

If you’re interested or would like to learn more, please reach out to [email protected] .

Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a dedicated group working together to support our administrators, teachers, and staff - while advocating for the success and well-being of every student at Mark Twain MS.

STAFF MEMBER OF THE MONTH:

Congratulations to Ms. Pennebaker on being the May Staff Member of the Month.

LINKS:

Staff of the Month Form

Join the PTA: Membership Store

Purchase Spirit Wear: Spirit Wear

Social Media: Facebook & Instagram

Upcoming Twain PTA Events:

May 13th - TONIGHT - PTA Membership Meeting - 7:30 PM

May 14th Twain Community Night - 6-8 PM (For All Twain & Pyramid Students)

June 12th - 8th Grade Dance, 6-8 PM

4700 Franconia Rd, Alexandria, VA 22310   |  Main: 703.313.3700
Attendance: 703.313.3737 | After-School Program: 703.313.3711
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Principal's Message

Greetings, Tiger Families! 

As our annual staff appreciation week comes to a close, I would like to thank all the generous families who contributed their time, creativity and financial resources towards gift cards, desserts, and culminating in a delicious staff lunch today. It is our privilege to educate your students, and we are grateful for the generosity and gratitude shown this week and throughout the school year.

On Wednesday our students completed their Reading Standards of Learning (SOL) exam. Next Wednesday they will take their Math SOL exam and on May 20th our 8th graders will take their Science SOL exam. Thank you for taking the time to highlight the importance of not only academic preparation for these exams, but also the physical preparation as well. Students arriving on-time to school, well-rested and fed on these exam days genuinely does make a difference in decreasing their stress and increasing their focus. Their success truly is a team effort, and we appreciate your partnership.

Our expectations for attendance, behavior and academics remain high through our last day on June 17th and we are appreciative of those high expectations being emphasized at home as well. We have some great events remaining this school year to include our Twain Community Night on May 14th, our 8th grade dance on June 12th, and our field day on June 17th and expect all of our students to continue to take care of themselves, each other, and our school in order to be eligible for these exciting events.

Happy Mother’s Day to all the Tiger moms out there!

Sincerely,

Matt

Twain’s Weekly Schedule 

Monday, May 11: Anchor Day Schedule

Tuesday, May 12: Odd Day Schedule

Wednesday, May 13: Even Day Schedule - Math SOL, Modified Bell Schedule

Thursday, May 14: Odd Day Schedule

Friday, May 15: Even Day Schedule

Modified Bell Schedule for May 13 Math SOL

4th period: 7:30 - 10:30 - Math SOL

8th period: 10:35 - 12:35 - Lunch

6th period: 12:39 - 1:25

2nd period: 1:29 - 2:15 

After School Program

1 st Block

    2 nd Block

Monday, May 11: 

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Tuesday, May 12:   

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Wednesday, May 13: 

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Thursday, May 14: 

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Friday, May 15: 

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Please note that the After School Program for the 2025-2026 school year will end next week on Thursday, May 21.

Twain TSA State Competition Results

Congratulations to the Mark Twain TSA Chapter who competed in the Technology Student Association Competition affectionately known as “Technoshpere” with 2000 other students from the state of Virginia.  We are most proud of the TSA team this year as every student attending placed top 10 in their event.  Top winners from Twain will compete in their respective events at the National Competition.

1st Place

Microcontroller Challenge: Michal Asmelash, Savannah Bagley, Jacky Huang, Selena Reed, Aaron Ruf

Place Technical Design: Aaron Ruf & Jacky Huang

2nd Place

Electrical Applications: Leo Jolley & Lilah Thompkins

Drone Challenge: Alina Navalkar, Olivia Platten

Systems Control Technology: Chris Buell, Evan Olave, Andrew Rodgers

Technical Design: Leo Jolley & Jeffrey Hoang

3rd Place

Mass Production: Eleanor Bates, Elijiah Boateng & Alan Cheshemejiev

Technical Design: William Mazariegos Roda & Jaxon Taylor

Twain National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) Chapter Inducts New Members

On Thursday evening our NJHS chapter, led by Ms. DeHaven and Ms. Silver, inducted 43 new deserving students who earned this prestigious membership as a result of their exemplary scholarship, service, leadership, character, and citizenship. 

Congratulations to our newest inductees and I look forward to seeing the amazing service leadership that is displayed in all future endeavors!

Required Immunizations for Rising 7th and 12th Graders

The following immunizations are required for students entering 7th and 12th grade each school year.

All students entering seventh gradeare required to receive one dose of each of the following immunizations prior to the beginning of school: Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis booster (Tdap), Meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY), and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. 

• To meet the Tdap requirement, the vaccination must be administered at age 7 or older.
• To meet the MenACWY requirement, the vaccination must be administered at age 10 or older.
• To meet the HPV requirement, the vaccination should be given between the ages of 11 to 12, or as early as 9 years old. 
•  As a parent/guardian, you may decide that your child will not receive the HPV vaccination. The school does not require documentation if a parent/guardian elects for their student to not receive the HPV vaccination.

All students entering 12th gradeshould have received two doses of the Meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY)prior to the beginning of school. To meet the MenACWY 12th-grade requirement, one of those doses must be administered at age 16 or older. 

Please consider getting your child’s immunizations early so that they can attend school in the fall. Parents and guardians are encouraged to plan ahead by scheduling an appointment with your child’s health care provider now to avoid the typical summer vaccination rush. Summer is a busy time for families and health care providers. As long as your child meets the age requirements listed above, they can be immunized at any time.

Immunization Events for FCPS Students

FCPS, in partnership with Inspire Health Alliance, will provide school-required immunizations and optional flu shots for all FCPS students at no out-of-pocket cost. Multiple events will take place at designated FCPS locations. 

Dates will be made available throughout the school year. Parents and guardians may view upcoming events and schedule an appointment for their student . Participation is voluntary. View additional immunization resources .

Stay up to Date With the FCPS Mobile App!

The FCPS mobile app offers a customized platform to help keep families connected and informed directly from their smartphones. You can download the Fairfax County Public Schools mobile app by going to the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and searching for “FCPS.” 

With the app, you can:

• Stay up to date:Get the latest news from FCPS.
• View school calendars:See events, activities, holidays, and early dismissals.
• Check school menus:See what’s for lunch and breakfast today, tomorrow, or next week.
• Tap to contact:Quickly call attendance lines or email school staff.
• Access key links:Jump to ParentVUE, Schoology, and the FCPS website in one tap.

Users can access updates and content without having to sign in, making it easy for everyone to stay informed. Learn more about the new mobile app , including feedback from parents.

Now Hiring: Substitute Instructional Assistants for the 2026–2027 School Year for Mark Twain MS | Apply Now

Mark Twain MS is seeking individuals who can provide continuity of instructional teaching as a substitute instructional assistant. Able to inspire, enable and empower students to meet high academic standards. The position offers:

✔ Flexible schedule

✔ Make a difference in your local community

✔ Great for people with a passion for teaching/assisting students

Join our team and support student learning!

Apply today!For details, visit the FCPS Substitute Employment Website. When applying, search “Substitute” and select the Edison pyramid posting.

Twain Odyssey of the Mind 

The Mark Twain Middle School Odyssey of the Mind team is heading to the World Finals on May 23! The team is fundraising for registration fees, travel, lodging, shipping the set (that they designed and built themselves!), and custom T-shirts they will wear to represent Mark Twain Middle School on a world stage! They are nearing their goal. Please consider making a donation to this creative Twain team. Every little bit helps!

Twain Community Night – Thursday, May 14, 2026, 6-8pm

The Mark Twain Middle School PTA looks forward to joining the Mark Twain administration, teachers, and staff in welcoming the greater Twain MS community to this annual family event. Twain Community Night is open to current and new students including rising 7th graders from our pyramid elementary schools. This is a fun evening for both students and parents to meet your future teachers, see the school and participate in fun activities. Stop by the PTA tables in the cafeteria to say Hello, participate in the raffle, enjoy our concession stand, and grab fresh spirit wear!

Does your local business want to participate as a sponsor or donate an item to our raffle? Email [email protected] for more information. We love opportunities to promote our community!

Little Majors Soccer Camp This Summer

The Little Majors Soccer Camp is a high-energy training camp designed for youth players, ages 6 - 14, eager to develop their skills, challenge themselves, and thrive in a competitive atmosphere.

The camp will take place during the month of July at Mount Vernon High School Stadium Field, 8515 Old Mount Vernon Road, Alexandria, VA 22309.  The cost is $300 per person, per week.

Don’t miss out! Sign up now for this amazing soccer camp with the Mount Vernon High School coaching staff! Registration is open now until June 1 and space is limited each week.

To register, fill out the Little Majors Soccer Camp Google Registration Form .  Questions?  Contact Coach Donald Dane at [email protected] .

TJHSST Techstravaganza 2026

Tomorrow’s Women in Science and Technology (TWIST), a student organization at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST), invites Twain students to attend their Techstravaganza on Saturday, May 16, from 10 am - 4 pm at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, 6560 Braddock Road, Alexandria, VA 22312.

Techstravaganza is a free, public, hands-on STEM activity fair for elementary and middle school students in Northern Virginia. In previous years, the event hosted more than 4,500 students and 70 labs presenting STEM activities. Exhibitors range from TJHSST clubs and TWIST volunteers to organizations like NASA SCaN, Art of Problem Solving, George Mason University, American Society of Naval Engineers, and the National Air and Space Museum. Admission is free and interested students can register with the TJHSST Techstravaganza 2026 Registration Form . 

More information about the event can be found on our website on the Techstravaganza 2026 website or TJ Partnership fund website .

Techstravaganza flyer - English

Techstravaganza flyer - Spanish

4700 Franconia Rd, Alexandria, VA 22310   |  Main: 703.313.3700
Attendance: 703.313.3737 | After-School Program: 703.313.3711
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PTA Updates STAFF APPRECIATION UPDATE - THANK YOU!

We are incredibly grateful for the amazing support shown during Staff Appreciation Week! Thanks to your generosity, we met our fundraising goals for both the staff gift cards and luncheon. Your donations, volunteer time, and encouragement helped us show our teachers and staff just how valued they are by the Twain community.

Staff Appreciation Week is still underway, and we look forward to continuing to celebrate the incredible people who support our students every day. Thank you for helping make this week so special for the entire Twain staff!

TWAIN COMMUNITY NIGHT:

The Twain PTA is excited to partner with the Mark Twain MS administration, teachers, and staff to welcome our school community to this annual event. Open to current students, new families, and rising 7th graders from our feeder elementary schools, it’s a fun, engaging evening for students and parents alike. The PTA would like to thank our Twain Community Night Event Sponsor, The Kingstowne Cat Clinic.

The event will take place on May 14th from 6:00–8:00 PM. We are seeking volunteers to help sell spirit wear, run the raffle, and manage concessions. If you would like to volunteer, please sign up here .

2026-2027 PTA BOARD:

Twain PTA Officer Elections are just around the corner—and we need YOU!

We’re looking for passionate leaders in our community to step forward and help continue the strong tradition of supporting our amazing MTMS staff and enriching the student experience for all.

Several key positions are still open for the next school year:

•     President
•     Vice President of Fundraising
•     Secretary

Families of both rising 7th- and 8th-graders are eligible. Know someone who would be a great fit? Maybe it’s you!

If you’re interested or would like to learn more, please reach out to [email protected] .

Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a dedicated group working together to support our administrators, teachers, and staff—while advocating for the success and well-being of every student at Mark Twain MS.

8TH GRADE DANCE:

The 8th Grade Dance will take place on June 12th from 6:00–8:00 PM—and we need your help to make it a special night for our students!

You can support this event by:

• Making a monetary donation
• Purchasing items from our Amazon Wishlist
• Volunteering your time to help set up or chaperone the dance

Every contribution—big or small—helps create a memorable celebration for our 8th graders as they wrap up their middle school journey. Thank you for your support!

LINKS:

Staff of the Month Form

Join the PTA: Membership Store

Purchase Spirit Wear: Spirit Wear

Social Media: Facebook & Instagram

Upcoming Twain PTA Events:

May 4th to 8th: Staff Appreciation Week

May 13th - PTA Membership Meeting - 7:30 PM

May 14th Twain Community Night - 6-8 PM (For All Twain & Pyramid Students)

June 12th - 8th Grade Dance, 6-8 PM

4700 Franconia Rd, Alexandria, VA 22310   |  Main: 703.313.3700
Attendance: 703.313.3737 | After-School Program: 703.313.3711
Web | Twitter  | YouTube

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PTA UpdatesStaff Appreciation Week This Week

Staff Appreciation Week starts today, and thanks to the incredible generosity of our Twain community, we are getting close to our goals!

We are currently at:

• 85.875%of our Gift Card Fundgoal
• 82%of our Staff Luncheon goal

We are so close to making this week extra special for every member of our amazing Twain staff — but we need one final push from our community to get there.

With every Twain student supported by 7–8 teachers and countless staff members throughout the school day, Staff Appreciation Week is a meaningful opportunity for our community to come together and show appreciation for the many people who care for, encourage, and support our students each day.

Our goal is to provide each staff member with a gift cardand host a catered luncheonto show how much we appreciate everything they do for our students every single day. Gift cards will be distributed tomorrow, and the Staff Appreciation Luncheon will take place on Friday.

From teachers and counselors to office staff, custodians, cafeteria workers, and support staff, this week is all about recognizing the people who make Twain such a special place.

If you have been meaning to donate, now is the time! Every contribution — no matter the size — helps us cross the finish line.

Donate to the Gift Card Fund

Contribute to the Staff Luncheon

Thank you for helping us show our Twain staff just how appreciated they truly are!

4700 Franconia Rd, Alexandria, VA 22310   |  Main: 703.313.3700
Attendance: 703.313.3737 | After-School Program: 703.313.3711
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Principal's Message

Greetings Tiger Families!

May is designated Mental Health Awareness Month, and at Twain we not only believe in raising awareness of about mental health issues, but also emphasizing that it is important to show up for one another. Each day at Twain we endeavor to “Take care of ourselves, take care of each other, and take care of our school.” This includes doing whatever it takes to improve the mental health and wellness of ourselves and those around us. This awareness month provides a chance to stand with our community and show that no one struggles alone. Everyone is invited to speak up against mental health stigma. Learn more about Mental Health Awareness Month on the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) website.

Studies show that regular physical activity as well as engagement in the full experience of school improves mental health, reduces stress, and increases a sense of belonging in students’ community. Last Friday night I was excited to see our students, families, and community show up at Hayfield to support our students at the annual Kingstowne Cup basketball games. The enthusiasm and spirit was noticeable, and certainly contributed to the first victory for our boys team in the seven years this rivalry game has been played. Congrats to Coach Firebaugh, Coach Murphy, Mr. Amato and the team for this momentous feat and thank you to all of our students who participated in both games, the halftime activities, the singing of the National Anthem, and for transforming the Hawk’s Nest into a Tiger Den!

Have a wonderful and safe weekend.

Sincerely,

Matt

Twain’s Weekly Schedule 

Monday, May 4: Anchor Day Schedule

Tuesday, May 5: Odd Day Schedule

Wednesday, May 6: Even Day Schedule - Reading SOL, Modified Bell Schedule

Thursday, May 7: Odd Day Schedule

Friday, May 8: Even Day Schedule

Modified Bell Schedule for May 6 Reading SOL

4th period: 7:30 - 10:30 - Reading SOL

6th period: 10:35 - 12:35 - Lunch

2nd period: 12:39 - 1:25

8th period: 1:29 - 2:15 

Please check out the Twain Website for more information about our SOL Testing Days

After School Program

1 st Block

    2 nd Block

Monday, May 4: 

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Tuesday, May 5:   

No After School

    Program

Wednesday, May 6: 

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Thursday, May 7: 

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Friday, May 8: 

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Prepare for Summer Learning and Fun for Students

Registration is open for FCPS summer camps and learning opportunities .

Career and Technical Education camps, and Fine and Performing Arts camps, will be held in July at Robinson Secondary School from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bus transportation will be available from select FCPS schools. 

Tuition assistance is available to FCPS families eligible for free or reduced-price meals. Registration is open for these programs through Friday, June 5.

• Tech Adventure Camp (TAC) is a week-long exploratory camp that allows current K-5 students to explore STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math), culinary arts, health, trades, and business and marketing.
• CTE Summer Academy (CSA) is a week-long enrichment program that allows students in grades 6-11 to dive deeper into CTE program areas, develop skills, and begin career exploration. Watch this video about CTE camps .
• Elementary Institute for the Arts (E-IFTA) is a weekly fine and performing arts camp for students in grades K-5 who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Students attend four daily classes in dance, music, theatre, and visual arts, and work with experienced educators who create engaging, fun classes.
• Institute for the Arts (IFTA) is a camp for students currently in grades 6-11. Students select from nearly 60 classes in art, dance, music, and theatre. Rising freshmen have the option to take Health and PE 9 through IFTA as well.
• Production Camp is a four-week summer theatre intensive camp for students in grades 6-11. Students in performance or technical theatre tracks rehearse, design, and build a musical in a collaborative atmosphere. The show is presented to the public at the end of camp. Read about last year’s camp . 

New this year: Students in the above camps can also register for aftercare, which is available from 2 to 5 p.m.

Special Education and STEM Teacher Job Fair  

FCPS will host a virtual instructional job fair for those interested in special education and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) teaching positions on Saturday, May 2, from 9 a.m. to noon. Join us for networking and interviewing opportunities with representatives from FCPS schools. Special Education Information Sessions will take place at 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. Learn more about the job fair and register to attend .

Family Information Phone Lines

FCPS family information phone lines are available in nine different languages. An FCPS employee will respond to your call in your preferred language within 24 hours, Monday through Friday. 

Call the phone line with questions about your child’s education or FCPS, and someone will help connect you to resources or arrange for you to speak to the appropriate school employee. Learn more about family information phone lines .

Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow. We All Belong Here!

In FCPS, we all belong . From the first day of school, to the last day of school, every child matters. If your student is having a hard time finishing the year strong and attending school, please contact a trusted adult at our school — a teacher, counselor, or administrator. Visit FCPS’ website for more attendance resources .

Jewish American Heritage Month

May is a national month of recognition of the history of Jewish contributions to American culture, acknowledging the diverse achievement of the Jewish community in the U.S. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

People with ancestral roots in Asia and the islands of the Pacific have been integral to the story of America. In 1992, May was designated Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month to celebrate their heritage and contributions.Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.

Twain Parent Coffee on Technology Use Presentation

On April 24, Twain held a parent coffee focused on student technology use. Topics included:

• Strategies for parents to help students use their phones, social media, and school laptops safely and responsibly
• Ready made resources parents can use for technology management
• SR&R Expectations and consequences for Twain students relative to technology violations
• Modeling of key digital resources for parents

View Twain’s Parent Coffee – Technology Use presentation

This information can also be found on the Twain MS Website

Twain Community Night – Thursday, May 14, 2026, 6-8pm

The Mark Twain Middle School PTA looks forward to joining the Mark Twain administration, teachers, and staff in welcoming the greater Twain MS community to this annual family event. Twain Community Night is open to current and new students including rising 7th graders from our pyramid elementary schools. This is a fun evening for both students and parents to meet your future teachers, see the school and participate in fun activities. Stop by the PTA tables in the cafeteria to say Hello, participate in the raffle, enjoy our concession stand, and grab fresh spirit wear!

Does your local business want to participate as a sponsor or donate an item to our raffle? Email [email protected] for more information. We love opportunities to promote our community!

Moving?

If you are moving, please update your address with us as soon as you’ve moved. If you are moving during the current school year and your student’s last day will be prior to May 22, you can find the withdrawal process on the Registrar’s Corner page of the Twain Website . If you are moving and your student’s last day will be May 22 or later, please follow the process below to submit the Student Intentions for Next School Year form.

Student Enrollment SY 26-27:

• For students returning to Twain, any forms which need updating will be indicated in future correspondence leading up to Tiger Fest in August.

• If your rising 7 th or rising 8 th grader will NOT attend Twainnext school year, or your rising 9 th grader will not be attending FCPS for high school,please complete the Student Intentions for Next School Year form and submit it to Christina Spencer [email protected] as soon as possible .
• If transferring to a non-public (private) school, please indicate the location and whether it is religiously or non-religiously affiliated.
• If transferring to a DODEA/American school outside of the US, select the option for “Public School Division in the US”
• If attending a non-DEDEA school in another country, select “I do not intend to enroll in any public or nonpublic school next year” and name the school/countryin “Other”.

Obtaining Student Records for School Transfer:

Should you indicate that your child(ren) will NOT attend Twain/FCPSfor the 2026-2027 school year, the submitted form serves as your official withdrawal notice and no further action will be required. If their last day in attendance will be prior to the last day of school, June 17, you must still communicate their attendance .

Once you have registered your child(ren) at another school:

• Rising 7 th and 8 th Graders :The new school should be advised by you to send an official request for student records to your child’s previous school. For rising 8th grade students, that’s Christina Spencer [email protected] at Twain. Rising 7 th - If you notified the elementary school prior to the end of the school year that your child would not go to Twain, the new school should be referred to the elementary school where your child’s file will remain. 
• Rising 9 th Graders:If you notified us prior to June 17 that your child will not attend FCPS for 9th grade, the new school should be advised by you to send an official request for student records to Christina Spencer [email protected] . If you did not notify us prior to June 17, they should be referred to contact the high school where your student would have attended if they remained in FCPS.

4700 Franconia Rd, Alexandria, VA 22310   |  Main: 703.313.3700
Attendance: 703.313.3737 | After-School Program: 703.313.3711
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PTA Updates STAFF APPRECIATION WEEK—WE NEED YOUR HELP BY FRIDAY

Staff Appreciation Week begins next week, and we are counting on our Twain community to help us show up for our incredible staff.

While we’ve made progress toward our Staff Luncheon and Gift Card Drive,we are still short of where we need to be. Without additional donations this week, we risk falling shortof providing the level of appreciation our staff truly deserves.

The deadline to donate is this Friday, and the next few days are critical.

If you’ve been meaning to contribute, now is the time. Every donation—no matter the amount—directly supports the teachers and staff who give so much to our students each day.

Let’s come together to ensure our staff feels the full support and appreciation of the Twain community.

Gift Card Drive

We aim to provide every staff member with a $25 gift card, made possible by donations from our Twain families. Donate to the Gift Card Fund

Staff Appreciation Luncheon

Friday, May 8 (10:15 AM – 12:45 PM)  We’re hosting a catered lunch to show our appreciation. Contribute to the Luncheon.

Volunteers Needed!

Help us bring it all together by signing up to volunteer throughout the week via the Staff Appreciation Week SignUpGenius form .

TWAIN COMMUNITY NIGHT:

The Twain PTA is excited to partner with the Mark Twain MS administration, teachers, and staff to welcome our school community to this annual event. Open to current students, new families, and rising 7th graders from our feeder elementary schools, it’s a fun, engaging evening for students and parents alike. The PTA would like to thank our Twain Community Night Event Sponsor, The Kingstowne Cat Clinic.

The event will take place on May 14th from 6:00–8:00 PM. We are seeking volunteers to help sell spirit wear, run the raffle, and manage concessions. If you would like to volunteer, please use the 2026 Twain Community Night SignUpGenius Form to sign up .

2026-2027 PTA BOARD:

Twain PTA Officer Elections are just around the corner—and we need YOU!

We’re looking for passionate leaders in our community to step forward and help continue the strong tradition of supporting our amazing MTMS staff and enriching the student experience for all.

Several key positions are still open for the next school year:

•     President
•     Vice President of Fundraising
•     Secretary

Families of both rising 7th- and 8th-graders are eligible. Know someone who would be a great fit? Maybe it’s you!

If you’re interested or would like to learn more, please reach out to [email protected] .

Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a dedicated group working together to support our administrators, teachers, and staff—while advocating for the success and well-being of every student at Mark Twain MS.

8TH GRADE DANCE:

The 8th Grade Dance will take place on June 12th from 6:00–8:00 PM—and we need your help to make it a special night for our students!

You can support this event by:

• Making a monetary donation
• Purchasing items from our Amazon Wishlist
• Volunteering your time to help set up or chaperone the dance

Every contribution—big or small—helps create a memorable celebration for our 8th graders as they wrap up their middle school journey. Thank you for your support!

LINKS:

Staff of the Month Form

8th Grade Dance

Nominating Committee Volunteer Interest Form

Join the PTA: Membership Store

Purchase Spirit Wear: Spirit Wear

Social Media: Facebook & Instagram

Upcoming Twain PTA Events:

May 4th to 8th: Staff Appreciation Week

May 13th  – PTA Membership Meeting - 7:30 PM

May 14th Twain Community Night - 6-8 PM (For All Twain & Pyramid Students)

June 12th– 8th Grade Dance, 6-8 PM

4700 Franconia Rd, Alexandria, VA 22310   |  Main: 703.313.3700
Attendance: 703.313.3737 | After-School Program: 703.313.3711
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Principal's Message

Greetings, Tiger Families!

Did you know that April is Autism Acceptance Month? One in 31 children is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder in the United States, according to the CDC . Our schools and staff play a vital role in creating and ensuring inclusive environments that accommodate and affirm autistic students. At Twain we value the variety of learning styles, backgrounds, experiences, and strengths that all of our students bring to our campus every day. We believe in the potential of our neurodiverse students and aim to provide them with an accepting, challenging, and supportive learning environment. All Tigers have a bright future ahead of them and we are privileged to be a part of it!

Learn more about FCPS special education services and our Twain special education department .

Sincerely,

Matt

Twain’s Weekly Schedule 

Monday, April 27: Anchor Day Schedule

Tuesday, April 28: Odd Day Schedule

Wednesday, April 29: Even Day Schedule

Thursday, April 30: Odd Day Schedule

Friday, May 1: Even Day Schedule

After School Program

1 st Block

    2 nd Block

Monday, April 27: 

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Tuesday, April 28:   

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Wednesday, April 29: 

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Thursday, April 30: 

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Friday, May 1: 

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Students Honored With 2026 Regional Scholastic Writing Awards

FCPS student writers earned 162 awards in the 2026 DC Metro Region Scholastic Writing Awards, including 24 Gold Key honors. Gold Key winners advance to the national competition.

Presented by the Alliance for Young Artists and Writers, this prestigious program is the nation’s longest-running recognition for creative teens across a wide range of writing categories.

Congratulations to our Franconia District students:

• Sophia Shi, Edison High School – Gold Key (Poetry)
• Sydney Stokes, Mount Vernon High School – Honorable Mention (Poetry)
• Angela Chen, Twain Middle School – Honorable Mention (Speculative Fiction)
• Maggie Chen, Edison High School – Honorable Mention (Poetry)

👉 View the full list of winners on the FCPS website

2026 National Board Certified and Recertified Teachers

At the April 9 School Board meeting , FCPS recognized educators who achieved or renewed certification through the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards.

Congratulations to our Franconia District honoree:

Bhumika Saxena,Twain Middle School Newly Certified – Science, Early Adolescence

Required Immunizations for Rising 7th and Rising 12th Graders

The following immunizations are required for students entering 7th and 12th grade each school year. 

All students entering 7th gradeare required to receive one dose of each of the following immunizations prior to the beginning of school: Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis booster (Tdap), Meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY), and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. 

• To meet the Tdap requirement, the vaccination must be administered at age 7 or older.
• To meet the MenACWY requirement, the vaccination must be administered at age 10 or older.
• To meet the HPV requirement, the vaccination should be given between the ages of 11 to 12 or as early as 9 years old. 
• As a parent/guardian, you may decide that your child will not receive the HPV vaccination. The school does not require documentation if a parent/guardian elects for their student not to receive the HPV vaccination.

All students entering 12th gradeare to receive two doses of the Meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY)prior to the beginning of school. To meet the MenACWY 12th grade requirement, one dose must be administered at age 16 or older. 

Parents and guardians are encouraged to plan ahead by scheduling an appointment with your child’s health care provider now to avoid the rush this summer. Please consider getting your child’s immunizations early so that they can attend school in the fall. Summer is a busy time for families and healthcare providers. As long as your child meets the age requirements listed above, they can be immunized at any time.

Immunization Events for FCPS StudentsFCPS, in partnership with Inspire Health Alliance, will provide school-required immunizations and optional flu shots for all FCPS students at no out-of-pocket cost. Multiple events will take place at designated FCPS locations.

Nominations Open for the Bussey Memorial Equity Award

Nominations are now open for the 2026 Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award. This award recognizes an employee, student, or community member who has demonstrated significant and impactful efforts to improve the educational experiences and outcomes of students from groups who are marginalized or underserved.

Any staff, student, or community member can nominate an individual for the award. All nomination materials must be submitted by Monday, May 18.  

The Minority Student Achievement Oversight Committee (MSAOC) sponsors this award to honor the legacy of Dr. Bussey, a founding member of the MSAOC and a longtime advocate for students and families. 

Full details and the nomination information form can be found at the Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award webpage .

Twain Theatre presents Alice in Wonderland next weekend

Mark your calendar for our spring play, Alice in Wonderland by Anne Coulter Martins.  Performance are April 30th, May 1st, and May 2nd at 7:00 pm and May 2nd at 2:00 pm. Tickets are now available online at Twain’s eTix website .  Buy them before April 29 for a $2 discount!  Tickets are also available for the Mad Hatter Tea Party for Pre-K through 4th grade students on May 2nd at 12:00. 

Edison High School Freshman Orientation – Class of 2030

We are excited to support your student’s transition to high school! For the third year, Edison High School is offering an optional Jump Start program for rising 9th-grade students.

Program Details:

Date:Tuesday, July 28th Time:9:00 AM – 1:00 PM Location:Edison High School

During this session, students will:

✔️ Meet staff members, including administrators, counselors, and teachers

✔️ Tour the school building

✔️ Receive tips for high school success

✔️ Learn about our wide range of sports and club opportunities

✔️ Receive lunch and Edison Eagle Pride T-shirt

Please note:Transportation will not be provided.

We look forward to welcoming the Class of 2030!

Save the Date:Registration will open on May 27th and a link will be located on the Edison website for those interested in our Jumpstart program. Please contact Greg Dombrowski: [email protected] or Ellen Hagan: [email protected] for further information.

4700 Franconia Rd, Alexandria, VA 22310   |  Main: 703.313.3700
Attendance: 703.313.3737 | After-School Program: 703.313.3711
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PTA Updates SPRING TIGER NIGHT RECAP

Tiger Night was a tremendous success and a fantastic evening for our students, filled with fun, energy, and time to connect with friends.

Thank you to our amazing admin team, staff, custodians, and volunteers who made the event possible. A special thank you to Todd Thompson for serving as our DJ and keeping the energy high all night, and to Sarah Rogers and Stacy Day for their leadership in chairing such a well-organized and memorable event.

We are also incredibly grateful to the many families who supported Tiger Night by donating items through our Amazon Wishlist and SignUpGenius—your generosity helped make the night run smoothly and added to the overall experience for our students.

Events like this truly showcase the strength of our Twain community. Thank you for your continued support!

TWAIN STAFF APPRECIATION WEEK:

Help Us Celebrate Our Amazing Twain Staff!

During Staff Appreciation Week (May 4–8), the PTA is planning two special ways to thank our incredible staff—and we need your help!

Gift Card Drive

We aim to provide every staff member with a $25 gift card, made possible by donations from our Twain families. Donate to the Gift Card Fund

Staff Appreciation Luncheon

Friday, May 8 (10:15 AM – 12:45 PM)We’re hosting a catered lunch to show our appreciation. Contribute to the Luncheon.

Volunteers Needed!Help us bring it all together by signing up to volunteer throughout the week via SignUpGenius .

Every donation—big or small—helps us make this week special for the staff who do so much for our students each day. Thank you for your support!

Every donation—big or small—helps us make this week special for the staff who do so much for our students each day. Thank you for your support!

PTA NOMINATING COMMITTEE:

The PTA Board is seeking three PTA members to serve on the Nominating Committee. This committee plays an important role in identifying and accepting nominations from eligible individuals for each vacant PTA Board office for the 2026–2027 school year.

Serving on the Nominating Committee is a meaningful way to support the future leadership of our PTA and help ensure a strong and successful year ahead.

If you are interested in volunteering to help select next year’s PTA Board, please use the Nomination Committee 2026 form to sign up.

LINKS:

Staff of the Month Form

Nominating Committee Volunteer Interest Form

Join the PTA: Membership Store

Purchase Spirit Wear: Spirit Wear

Social Media: Facebook & Instagram

Upcoming Twain PTA Events:

May 4th to 8th - Staff Appreciation Week

May 13th - PTA Membership Meeting - 7:30 PM

May 14th Twain Community Night - 6-8 PM (For All Twain & Pyramid Students)

June 5th - 8th Grade Dance, 6-8 PM

4700 Franconia Rd, Alexandria, VA 22310   |  Main: 703.313.3700
Attendance: 703.313.3737 | After-School Program: 703.313.3711
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Kingstowne Cup this Friday, April 24 at Hayfield Secondary School

The Kingstowne Cup, our annual basketball game with Hayfield Secondary School, is this Friday, April 24! Please come out to Hayfield Secondary to support Twian's teams.  Admission is $5 and doors will open at 5:00 pm with the girls game at 5:45 pm and the boys game at 7:15 pm. Fun games and prizes are available to all attendees before the games, at halftime, and between the games. We are having a BLACK OUT so please participate if you can by wearing black clothing.

If your child chooses to attend, please remind them that the Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R) applies at school events and that our collective expectations are the same. The vast majority of the time the vast majority of our students do exactly what is expected of them. If those expectations are not met then consequences can be assigned and eligibility for future events can be revoked.

Please remember that pick-up must be within 15 minutes of the end of the event. We anticipate that to be no later than 8:15 pm. We will ask students to remind their ride about this pickup time during the event, but please plan to make sure a ride is there on time. Our ability to hold student events like Kingstowne Cup is directly tied to students being picked up on time.

Hope to see you there!

4700 Franconia Rd, Alexandria, VA 22310   |  Main: 703.313.3700
Attendance: 703.313.3737 | After-School Program: 703.313.3711
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Principal's Message

Greetings Tiger Families!

I am excited to share that ALL of the performing groups for our Twain Orchestra, Choir and Band received Superior ratings at assessment this spring! For the 3rd year in a row, we are a Blue Ribbon School for music! Thank you, Mr. Kluttz, Mr. Garfield, and Ms. Tolpa for your leadership in guiding our amazing music program. The 4th piece of our amazing Twain performing arts program is our theatre program lead by Ms. Becker. Don’t forget to mark your calendar for our spring play, Alice in Wonderland by Anne Coulter Martins, which will run April 30th through May 2nd here at Twain. Tickets are now available online at Twain’s eTix website .  Buy them before April 29 for a $2 discount!  Tickets are also available for the Mad Hatter Tea Party for Pre-K through 4th grade students on May 2nd at 12:00. 

Our performing arts, extracurriculars and activities are made possible through the support of our community. FCPS gets about 70% of its budget through the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, and we hope to continue providing our students with the resources and opportunities that make our school division excellent when the Board of Supervisors finalizes its Fiscal Year 2027 Budget on May 5. Please feel free to make your voice heard by reaching out to your local representatives and share your ideas about funding public education. Learn more by visiting the budget webpage . Thank you for helping sustain excellence at Twain and at all Fairfax County public schools! Finally, today marks the last day at Twain for our Principal’s Administrative Assistant – Ms. Brenda Mejia. Brenda joined Twain in 2019 and has been keeping the school running smoothly ever since. We are excited for her promotion but will miss her greatly. We have begun the process of finding her replacement and will do so in the coming weeks. Congratulations Ms. Mejia!

Sincerely,

Matt

Twain’s Weekly Schedule 

Monday, April 20: Odd Day Schedule

Tuesday, April 21: No School - Teacher Workday

Wednesday, April 22: Even Day Schedule

Thursday, April 23: Odd Day Schedule

Friday, April 24: Even Day Schedule

After School Program

1 st Block

    2 nd Block

Monday, April 20: 

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Tuesday, April 21:   

No After School

    Program

Wednesday, April 22: 

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Thursday, April 23: 

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Friday, April 24: 

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Calendar Reminders April Statewide Election: No School for Students

There will be no school for students on Tuesday, April 21, for the Virginia statewide election. Student activities, athletic practices, and events may proceed as scheduled. 

FCPS will offer lunch and a snack at no cost to children aged 18 and under on Tuesday, April 21, at participating schools . The meals must be eaten on site, and enrichment activities will be available for the children. For more information, visit the FCPS Food and Nutrition Services webpage . 

See the complete school year calendar .

Webinar: Partnering With Your Child’s Middle School

In this webinar, families of rising middle school students are invited to explore ways to stay connected to learning and maintain strong family-school partnerships throughout their child’s secondary education. Register to attend on Tuesday, April 28, at 7 p.m.

Support Your Children During Important Spring Assessments

Students will be participating in spring assessments based on their grade level and courses. This includes summative assessments like Standards of Learning (SOL) tests, which measure what a student knows, and the Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) tests, which measure where students are in their learning. 

This list of assessments for each grade level provides the spring timeframe for required tests. Each school sets specific testing dates and communicates schedules to students and families. Please review school newsletters and emails carefully for this information.

FCPS encourages all families to support their students in taking these tests. Virginia requires schools to test at least 95% of students on SOLs, so when families choose not to participate in testing, it can impact a school’s accreditation, accountability ratings, and ability to measure student progress accurately.

Parents and caregivers can help their children perform their best on these tests by reminding them to get a good night’s sleep, eat a healthy breakfast, and that the cell phone policy still applies during testing season. 

It is important that students attend school on scheduled testing dates. If you are aware of a conflict that may cause your student to miss a test, please notify your student’s school as soon as possible. . Learn more about how to support your child and why test participation matters .

Red Flag Gun Law in Virginia

Virginia’s Emergency Substantial Risk Orders (ESRO) law prevents individuals who show signs of being a threat to themselves or others from purchasing, possessing, or transporting any kind of firearm. If you know of someone with a gun acting in a way that concerns you, speak up to prevent a gun tragedy. 

To request an ESRO in Fairfax County, call the police non-emergency line at 703-691-2131. If there is an immediate danger, call or text 911. Learn more about Red Flag laws on the county government website.

Updates to 2026-27 School Year Calendar

The School Board voted to direct the superintendent to designate Veterans Day as a standard instructional day for the 2026-27 school year. Because this day was added, the 2026-27 school year will now end for students on Wednesday, June 16, 2027. Get more information on Boarddocs . View the updated complete school year calendar .

The last day of school for the current school year — Wednesday, June 17, 2026— has not changed.

First Responder Interaction Day

First Responder Interaction Day will take place on Saturday, April 25, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Fire Academy (4600 West Ox Road). This hands-on event gives attendees a chance to step into the world of first responders - participants can try hands-only CPR, learn how to call 9-1-1, and even take part in a mock traffic stop experience.

There will also be representatives from various agencies on site sharing helpful resources, answering questions, and giving out fun swag.

Department of Emergency Management

Health Department

FCFRD

FCPD

FCSO

DPSC 9-1-1

Virginia DMV

The ARC of NOVA

CERT

DARS

Disability Rights & Resources

FCPS Family Resource Center

Infant & Toddler Connection

K9 Caring Angels

NVRC

Sparks ABA

Service Source

Autism Society

Check out the First Responder Interaction Day flyer .

Science SOL Bootcamp

Twain’s 8th-grade Science team has identified students who would benefit from additional support to prepare for the Science SOL on May 20, 2026.

Your student is among those selected for targeted review sessions.

To help your student succeed, we will be offering four (4) one-hourreview sessions after schoolon the following dates:

• Monday, April 20
• Thursday, April 23
• Monday, April 27
• Thursday, April 30

Please check out our detailed information about the program, including dates and times .

The specific topics covered each day will be posted outside all Science Classrooms, as well as on the All-School Schoology Page.

To confirm your student's participation in this Science SOL Prep program, please complete the 25-26 Twain MS Science SOL After-School Review form .

If you have any questions regarding this Science Review, please do not hesitate to contact Ms. Cuevas-Mehra, Assistant Principal, at 703-313-3723.

3 rd Quarter Level Up Your Reading: The XP Challenge Awards

The Twain XP Reading Challenge is underway!  Over 50 students and 4 teachers are already leveling up their reading every single week. And remember – you can still join at any time this year, so it’s not too late to get started.

For 3rd quarter, we recognized students with the most total reading minutes and the most weekly reading check-ins. 

First up – our top readers in 8th grade, for most minutes read overall: London S, Helen B, Sadie J, Mackenzie D, and Zahra A. Great job, 8th grade!

Now – our top readers in 7th grade:  Jonathan A, Logan A, Sabawoon T, Grace H, and Cooper S.  Awesome work 7th grade!

Each week, students checked in with the librarians to share how many minutes they read and to talk about their books.  A big shout-out to the students who completed every single check-in during 3rd quarter: Sabawoon T, Jonathan A, Sadie J, Grace H, and Cooper S.  Congratulations!

All these students were highlighted on the new show on before Spring Break and can pick up their prizes in the library.

Get ready for Fiction in 4th quarter! Join the Twain XP Reading Challenge. Keep reading! 

Moving?

If you are moving, please update your address with us as soon as you’ve moved. If you are moving during the current school year and your student’s last day will be prior to May 22, you can find the withdrawal process on the Registrar’s Corner page of the Twain Website . If you are moving and your student’s last day will be May 22 or later, please follow the process below to submit the Student Intentions for Next School Year form.

Student Enrollment SY 26-27:

• For students returning to Twain, any forms which need updating will be indicated in future correspondence leading up to Tiger Fest in August.

• If your rising 7 th or rising 8 th grader will NOT attend Twainnext school year, or your rising 9 th grader will not be attending FCPS for high school,please complete the Student Intentions for Next School Year form and submit it to Christina Spencer [email protected] as soon as possible .
• If transferring to a non-public (private) school, please indicate the location and whether it is religiously or non-religiously affiliated.
• If transferring to a DODEA/American school outside of the US, select the option for “Public School Division in the US”
• If attending a non-DEDEA school in another country, select “I do not intend to enroll in any public or nonpublic school next year” and name the school/countryin “Other”.

Obtaining Student Records for School Transfer:

Should you indicate that your child(ren) will NOT attend Twain/FCPSfor the 2026-2027 school year, the submitted form serves as your official withdrawal notice and no further action will be required. If their last day in attendance will be prior to the last day of school, June 17, you must still communicate their attendance .

Once you have registered your child(ren) at another school:

• Rising 7 th and 8 th Graders :The new school should be advised by you to send an official request for student records to your child’s previous school. For rising 8th grade students, that’s Christina Spencer [email protected] at Twain. Rising 7 th - If you notified the elementary school prior to the end of the school year that your child would not go to Twain, the new school should be referred to the elementary school where your child’s file will remain. 
• Rising 9 th Graders:If you notified us prior to June 17 that your child will not attend FCPS for 9th grade, the new school should be advised by you to send an official request for student records to Christina Spencer [email protected] . If you did not notify us prior to June 17, they should be referred to contact the high school where your student would have attended if they remained in FCPS.

Order Your 2025-2026 Yearbook Buy your Yearbook today!

Go to: yearbookordercenter.com

Use our school’s code#: 8606

4700 Franconia Rd, Alexandria, VA 22310   |  Main: 703.313.3700
Attendance: 703.313.3737 | After-School Program: 703.313.3711
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PTA Updates SPRING TIGER NIGHT ON FRIDAY!

Spring Tiger Nighttakes place this Friday, April 17th, from 6:00–8:00 PM!

This is always one of the most exciting student events of the year—full of fun, games, music, and time with friends.

Ticket Sales:

• Tomorrowis the last day to buy tickets!
•     $5 per ticket (cash only) — no tickets will be sold at the door!

We Need Your Help!

Parents & caregivers— Tiger Night can’t happen without you!

We are currently looking for:

•     Event Volunteers (set-up, supervision, concessions, clean-up)
•     Donations from our Amazon Wishlist to help make the night a success

Every contribution—big or small—helps create a fun and memorable experience for our students.

Thank you for supporting our Twain community—we can’t wait to see everyone there!

SignUpGenius

Amazon Wishlist for Tiger Night

TWAIN STAFF APPRECIATION WEEK:

Help Us Celebrate Our Amazing Twain Staff!

During Staff Appreciation Week (May 4–8), the PTA is planning two special ways to thank our incredible staff—and we need your help!

Gift Card Drive

We aim to provide every staff member with a $25 gift card, made possible by donations from our Twain families. Donate to the Gift Card Fund

Staff Appreciation Luncheon – Friday, May 8 (10:15 AM – 12:45 PM).  We’re hosting a catered lunch to show our appreciation. Contribute to the Luncheon.

Every donation—big or small—helps us make this week special for the staff who do so much for our students each day. Thank you for your support!

PTA NOMINATING COMMITTEE:

The PTA Board is seeking three PTA members to serve on the Nominating Committee. This committee plays an important role in identifying and accepting nominations from eligible individuals for each vacant PTA Board office for the 2026–2027 school year.

Serving on the Nominating Committee is a meaningful way to support the future leadership of our PTA and help ensure a strong and successful year ahead.

If you are interested in volunteering to help select next year’s PTA Board, please use the Nomination Committee 2026 form to sign up.

LINKS:

Staff of the Month Form

Nominating Committee Volunteer Interest Form

8th Grade Dance Volunteer Interest Form

Join the PTA: Membership Store

Purchase Spirit Wear: Spirit Wear

Social Media: Facebook & Instagram

4700 Franconia Rd, Alexandria, VA 22310   |  Main: 703.313.3700
Attendance: 703.313.3737 | After-School Program: 703.313.3711
Web | Twitter  | YouTube

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page .

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Principal's Message

Greetings Tiger Families!

Welcome back from what I hope was a restful and fun spring break! We enthusiastically started 4th quarter this week and it is hard to believe there are only 45 days left in the 2025-26 school year. I feel that the “A” in April stands for “appreciation” as there are a number of local and national recognitions to celebrate during this month.

This week has been National Assistant Principals Week, a time to recognize the vital role assistant principals play in our schools. Thank you so much for all that you do Ms. Cuevas-Mehra, Ms. Montgomery, Mr. Orenstein, Ms. Roddey and Mr. Fitzgerald (who isn’t technically an assistant principal, but as Director of Student Services, he does a lot of assistant principal things)! At Twain our assistant principals go above and beyond each day to ensure our schools are places where students thrive, and staff feel valued. Their tireless commitment, leadership, and compassion are foundational to our mission, and we’re proud to honor them this week.

Wednesday was also Paraprofessional Appreciation Day. Thank you to our instructional assistants, public health training attendants, and public health attendants who directly support our students in countless ways each and every day!

Finally, April is School Library Month, and April 3rd was School Librarian Day. Ms. Howard and Ms. Silver, our dedicated librarians, help our students develop knowledge and skills, experience a sense of belonging, find inspiration and support, and freely pursue their personal interests and academic growth. Our library truly is a place where all students are welcomed and supported!

Have a wonderful weekend and Go Tigers!

Sincerely,

Matt

Twain’s Weekly Schedule 

Monday, April 13: Anchor Day Schedule

Tuesday, April 14: Odd Day Schedule

Wednesday, April 15: Even Day Schedule

Thursday, April 16: Odd Day Schedule

Friday, April 17: Even Day Schedule

After School Program

1 st Block

    2 nd Block

Monday, April 13: 

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Tuesday, April 14:   

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Wednesday, April 15: 

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Thursday, April 16: 

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Friday, April 17: 

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Calendar Reminders School Planning Day

Friday, April 10, is a school planning day. There will be no school for students.

Theravada New Year (Observance Day)

Thursday, April 16, is Theravada New Year. FCPS has designated this day as a religious and cultural observance day . Observance days are regular school days with no mandatory tests, field trips, or major events.

April Statewide Election: No School for Students

There will be no school for students on Tuesday, April 21, for the Virginia statewide election. Student activities, athletic practices, and events may proceed as scheduled. 

FCPS will offer lunch and a snack at no cost to children aged 18 and under on Tuesday, April 21, at participating schools . The meals must be eaten on site, and enrichment activities will be available for the children. For more information, visit the FCPS Food and Nutrition Services webpage . 

See the complete school year calendar .

Teacher Job Fair: Join Team FCPS!  

Interested in becoming an educator? FCPS will be hosting an in-person instructional job fair on Saturday, April 11, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. ,at Lake Braddock Secondary School . There will be networking and interviewing opportunities with representatives from FCPS schools. Learn more about the job fair and register to attend (required).

Support Military Children on Purple Up! Day

To show our support for all our military-connected families, we are inviting all Twain Middle School students, families, staff, and community members to “Purple Up!” on Wednesday, April 15,for military children.

Why purple? Purple symbolizes all branches of the military as a combination of Army green, Marine Corps red, and the blue of the Coast Guard, Navy, Air Force, and Space Force.

April Is Month of the Military Child

Twain welcomes all of our new and returning military-connected families throughout the year. We are so very proud to be a Virginia Distinguished Purple Star School in recognition of our support for Twain military connected students. Whether your family is moving permanently to the school district or living here for a short time, our schools and support staff will welcome you and will assist with your transition into or out of our district. Watch this message from Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid about the Month of the Military Child. 

Visit the FCPS Military Families webpage and sign up to receive the Military Families newsletter . Follow our FCPS Military Families accounts on Facebook and Instagram for support and resources. If you have questions, please email our Family and School Partnerships team.

Educate Fairfax Student Bookmark Art Contest – “Today’s Reader, Tomorrow’s Leader”

Educate Fairfax, the 501(c)3 education foundation that partners with the community to support Fairfax County Public Schools students and educators, is launching a divisionwide Student Bookmark Art Contest during March. FCPS students in grades K–12 are invited to design a 2” x 7” bookmark celebrating the power of learning and creativity under the theme “Today’s Reader, Tomorrow’s Leader.”

Artwork must be original, flat (no glitter or pop-ups), and include the student’s name, grade, and school on the back. Entries will be judged on creativity, connection to the theme, and overall effort. Four winners (K–2, 3–6, middle, and high) will each receive a $25 gift card, and winning designs will be printed and shared in schools and the community. This initiative supports FCPS Goal 3 by promoting literacy and student engagement.

Entries are due Friday, April 17, 2026. Submissions may be mailed to Educate Fairfax (8270 Willow Oaks Corporate Drive, Fairfax, VA 22031), emailed to [email protected] , or sent via pony mail. By submitting, students confirm FCPS enrollment and grant permission for printing and promotion (first name and grade only; parent/guardian signature required for winners).

Please click this link for instructions: Educate Fairfax Bookmark Contest Flyer and Instructions.

Required Immunizations for Rising 7th Graders

As required by the Code of VA , parents or legal guardians need to provide proof of immunizations for their child to attend at a Virginia public school.

In addition, all students entering 7th grade are required to receive one dose of each of the following immunizations : 

• Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis booster (Tdap) given at age 7 or older; 
• Meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY) given at age 10 or older;  
• A complete series of 2 doses of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. 

o After reviewing educational materials approved by the Board of Health, the parent or guardian, at the parents or guardians sole discretion, may elect for the child not to receive the HPV vaccine.

Parents and guardians are encouraged to plan ahead by scheduling an appointment with your child’s healthcare provider now to avoid the rush this summer. Immunization appointments are available. Inspire Health Alliance will be providing immunizations for currently enrolled FCPS students at no out-of-pocket cost. Visit the Inspire Immunization Events Student Registration webpage to schedule an appointment.

Please review the Virginia Department of Health Information Packet (PDF) for more information on rising 7th grade immunization requirements.

Additional Immunization Resources are also available.

Help FCPS Sustain Excellence: Make Your Voice Heard on the FY 2027 Budget

About 70% of the FCPS budget comes from the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. There are several upcoming opportunities to provide feedback to the county on its budget before final adoption in May. This includes public budget hearings (April 14-16) and an online survey .

Learn how the FCPS budget helps us sustain our excellence .

National Arab American Heritage Month

FCPS is proud to celebrate National Arab American Heritage Month in April. This special month provides an opportunity to recognize the history and valuable contributions of Arab Americans.

Arab Americans have ancestry in one of the world’s 22 Arab nations, which are located from northern Africa through western Asia. The people of these nations are ethnically, politically, and religiously diverse but share a common cultural and linguistic heritage.

Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.

Morning Attendance Notifications Will Continue During Spring Assessments

Morning attendance calls, texts, and e-mail notifications will continue throughout the AP, IB, and SOL testing windows for middle and high schools this spring. 

The purpose of continuing these notifications is to prioritize student safety and timely notification of families regarding student absences.  Schools will follow standard attendance procedures and record student attendance throughout the testing windows. In middle and high schools, morning attendance notifications will be delayed by one hour during the AP, IB, and SOL testing windows to allow additional time to take attendance.  Evening attendance notification will continue as normally scheduled. 

Elementary schools are not impacted by the delay of morning attendance notifications during testing windows. 

The dates during which morning attendance notifications will be delayed are as follows:

• High School and Middle School:Morning notifications will be delayed by one hour from April 24 through June 3, 2026.

• Elementary School:No change to morning notifications.

AVID Chipotle Fundraiser

Support Twain AVID by eating at the Kingstowne Chipotle on Saturday, April 11th between 5:00 and 9:00 PM! Our program receives 25% of event sales which will help fund transportation for spring college visits. Order online for pickup using CODE DQEY7DQ or show this AVID Chipotle flyer in the restaurant. We appreciate your support!

AVID 8 University of Richmond Transportation Fundraiser

A tenet of the AVID program is to create an environment where students engage in authentic experiences leading to college readiness. A college visit in middle school prepares students for academic planning in high school and informs them about resources like financial aid and scholarship opportunities. Stepping onto a college campus helps our middle schoolers visualize their future as college students—a goal for all our Twain AVID scholars!

Twain’s AVID 8 students were invited to visit the University of Richmond this April, but we need help fundraising for a charter bus. We are looking to raise up to $2000 to cover the cost of transportation. Donations can be through MySchoolBucks .  We appreciate any help you can provide! If you have questions about this fundraiser, please contact Kate Balderston at [email protected] .

NJHS Spring Service Project

NJHS is Collecting items to make Birthday Cake Kits for Local Food Pantries. We need to collect: 

• Cake Mixes
• Frosting
• Sprinkles
• Candles
• 9x13 Aluminum Pans

We will be collecting these items between Tues. April 7th-Fri April 17th. Donation boxes will be in the Cafeteria and Main Office. Thank you for helping us collect these items, because everyone deserves to celebrate a Birthday!

3 rd Quarter Level Up Your Reading: THE XP Challenge Awards

The Twain XP Reading Challenge is underway!  Over 50 students and 4 teachers are already leveling up their reading every single week. And remember – you can still join at any time this year, so it’s not too late to get started.

For 3rd quarter, we recognized students with the most total reading minutes and the most weekly reading check-ins. 

First up – our top readers in 8th grade, for most minutes read overall: London S, Helen B, Sadie J, Mackenzie D, and Zahra A. Great job, 8th grade!

Now – our top readers in 7th grade:  Jonathan A, Logan A, Sabawoon T, Grace H, and Cooper S.  Awesome work 7th grade!

Each week, students checked in with the librarians to share how many minutes they read and to talk about their books.  A big shout-out to the students who completed every single check-in during 3rd quarter: Sabawoon T, Jonathan A, Sadie J, Grace H, and Cooper S.  Congratulations!

All these students were highlighted on the new show on before Spring Break and can pick up their prizes in the library.

Get ready for Fiction in 4th quarter! Join the Twain XP Reading Challenge. Keep reading! 

Edison High School Theatre Spring Play News! 

April 15-17, at 7 pm, and April 18, at 1 pm, Edison Theatre presents the classic American comedy “You Can’t Take it with You.”The Sycamore family and their wacky hobbies clash with the I.R.S., stuck-up rich people, and even the F.B.I in this comedy by Hart and Kaufman. A talented cast of 30 with an amazing crew will bring smiles to your face for only four performances. 

For students and families of Twain MS, we offer 50% off both adult tickets ($7.50) and student/senior citizens ($5) using promo code “Twain25.”  staff can reserve their complimentary ticket with promo code “Eagles.”All seats are general admission.

Go to Edison Theatre eTix to buy tickets in advance or report 30 minutes before showtime for each performance.

TJHSST Techstravaganza 2026

Tomorrow’s Women in Science and Technology (TWIST), a student organization at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST), invites Twain students to attend their Techstravaganza on Saturday, May 16, from 10 am - 4 pm at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, 6560 Braddock Road, Alexandria, VA 22312.

Techstravaganza is a free, public, hands-on STEM activity fair for elementary and middle school students in Northern Virginia. In previous years, the event hosted more than 4,500 students and 70 labs presenting STEM activities. Exhibitors range from TJHSST clubs and TWIST volunteers to organizations like NASA SCaN, Art of Problem Solving, George Mason University, American Society of Naval Engineers, and the National Air and Space Museum. Admission is free and interested students can register with the TJHSST Techstravaganza 2026 Registration Form . 

More information about the event can be found on our website on the Techstravaganza 2026 website or TJ Partnership fund website .

Techstravaganza flyer - English

Techstravaganza flyer - Spanish

4700 Franconia Rd, Alexandria, VA 22310   |  Main: 703.313.3700
Attendance: 703.313.3737 | After-School Program: 703.313.3711
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PTA Updates APRIL MEMBERSHIP MEETING - TONIGHT!

Please join us tonight for the March membership meeting.  Please use the Zoom Meeting Registration form to register for tonight’s meeting. 

SPRING TIGER NIGHT:

Save the date for our Spring Tiger Nighton Friday, April 17th from 6:00–8:00 PM!This is always one of the most exciting student events of the year—full of fun, games, music, and time with friends.

Ticket Sales:

•     Tickets will be sold during lunch from April 14–16.
•     $5 per ticket (cash only) — no tickets will be sold at the door!

We Need Your Help!

Parents & caregivers— Tiger Night can’t happen without you!

We are currently looking for:

•     Event Volunteers (set-up, supervision, concessions, clean-up)
•     Donations from our Amazon Wishlist to help make the night a success

Every contribution—big or small—helps create a fun and memorable experience for our students.

Thank you for supporting our Twain community—we can’t wait to see everyone there!

SignUpGenius

Amazon Wishlist for Tiger Night

PTA NOMINATING COMMITTEE:

The PTA Board is seeking three PTA members to serve on the Nominating Committee. This committee plays an important role in identifying and accepting nominations from eligible individuals for each vacant PTA Board office for the 2026–2027 school year.

Serving on the Nominating Committee is a meaningful way to support the future leadership of our PTA and help ensure a strong and successful year ahead.

If you are interested in volunteering to help select next year’s PTA Board, please use the 2026 Nominating Committee Google Form to sign up.

LINKS:

Staff of the Month Form

Nominating Committee Volunteer Interest Form

8th Grade Dance Volunteer Interest Form

Join the PTA: Membership Store

Purchase Spirit Wear: Spirit Wear

Social Media: Facebook & Instagram

4700 Franconia Rd, Alexandria, VA 22310   |  Main: 703.313.3700
Attendance: 703.313.3737 | After-School Program: 703.313.3711
Web | Twitter  | YouTube

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page .

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Principal's Message

Greetings Tiger Families!

As we head into Spring Break, I want to take a moment to celebrate the incredible hard work our students and staff have put in over the last few months. It has been a busy season of growth, much like the flowers in our flower beds and weeds emerging in my yard, and now it is time for a well-deserved intermission. It is hard to believe the 3rd quarter has just come to a close.

Whether you are traveling, enjoying a staycation, or knocking items off of your to-do list I hope this week provides your family with a chance to:

• Unplug:Take a break from the screens and schedules.
• Recharge:Get some extra rest and fresh air.
• Connect:Enjoy quality time with friends and loved ones.

We look forward to welcoming everyone back on April 7th with renewed energy for the final stretch of the school year. Have a safe, relaxing, and wonderful Spring Break!

Sincerely,

Matt

Twain’s Weekly Schedule 

March 30 - April 3: Spring Break - No School

Monday, April 6: Teacher Workday - No School

Tuesday, April 7: Anchor Day Schedule

Wednesday, April 8: Even Day Schedule

Thursday, April 9: Odd Day Schedule

Friday, April 10: Teacher Workday - No School

After School Program 

March 30 - April 3: Spring Break - No School

1 st Block

    2 nd Block

Monday, April 6: 

No After School

    Program

Tuesday, April 7:   

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Wednesday, April 8: 

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Thursday, April 9: 

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Friday, April 10: 

No After School

    Program

Please Note: No Announcements and Upcoming Events Email on April 3

There will be no Twain MS Announcements and Upcoming Events email on Friday, April 3 because of Spring Break. The next Announcements and Upcoming Events email will be Friday, April 10.

Calendar Reminders Quarter End and Early Release

Friday, March 27, is the last day of the third quarter and an early release day for students. 

Spring Break

Schools will be closed from Monday, March 30, to Friday, April 3, for spring break. Monday, April 6, is a teacher workday, and there will be no school for students. 

School Planning Day 

Friday, April 10, is a school planning day. There will be no school for students. See the complete school year calendar .

Graduation Dates

View days, times, and locations for FCPS graduation ceremonies .

Cell Phone Policy & Twain Yondr Pouches

FCPS’ cell phone policy helps students focus, learn, and engage. When students put their phones away, they have more face-to-face interactionswith their peers and teachers and more opportunities to develop resilience and problem-solving skills. It also aligns with the Commonwealth of Virginia’s expectations for public school students. Please remind your child that:

Cell phonesand personal devices (earbuds, headsets, other items connected to the internet) must be off and away for the entire school day (bell to bell).

Smart watchesthat serve a dual purpose may be worn, but the phone features (texting, Internet viewing, and calls) are to be off when phone use is prohibited.

At Twain Middle School, we utilize school-issued Yondr Pouches as a tool to help students maintain responsible technology use and remain focused in class. It is a schoolwide expectation that all students place their phones and wireless headphones in their pouch every day. Failure to do so is in violation of the cell phone policy. We will be increasing our random and unannounced classroom pouch checks to ensure students are following this expectation when we return from spring break. Please speak to your student about making sure they meet this expectation.If you need to contact your child during the school day, please call our front office at 703.313.3700. Visit our cell phone policy webpage for more information and answers to frequently asked questions.

FCPS Summer Internship Program Launch 

FCPS is excited to launch Year 2 of the Summer Internship Program, a six-week, paid, in-person opportunity for a limited number of current FCPS high school students and FCPS alumni enrolled in post-secondary education. The 2026 program will run Monday, July 6 through Friday, August 14, 2026.

Following the successful pilot in Summer 2025, which attracted over 900 applicants and expanded to 20 interns across central office departments, the program will continue to provide meaningful work-based learning experiences aligned to the Closing the Achievement Gap (CAG) Framework and FCPS’ Strategic Plan Goal 5: Leading for Tomorrow’s Innovation . To see the program in action and hear directly from student participants, please view the 2025 Summer Internship video summary and view the Intern Instagram account @FCPSInterns .

The program will offer hands-on, project-based learning across FCPS central office locations including Gatehouse Administration Center, Willow Oaks Administrative Center, and other worksites. Interns will support department staff on mission-critical projects that prepare the division for the upcoming school year while participating in weekly professional development workshops focused on personal finance, communication, resume writing, and networking. Building on feedback from the pilot year, the 2026 program includes several enhancements to strengthen the intern experience. 

The application window opens today and closes on Friday, April 10.

Full details of the program, and a printable flyer, can be found on the FCPS Summer Internship website . 

FCPS Commitment to Weather Safety

At FCPS, the safety of our students, staff, and visitors is one of our highest priorities — no matter the season. 

FCPS has plans in place to provide guidance during severe weather, including storms, flooding, and tornadoes. Our decisions are informed by industry best practices, weather alerts, and a commitment to keeping our school community safe and healthy year-round. Read more about weather safety , including the differences between an advisory, watch, and warning.

Get Alerts from FCPS

Make sure your cell phone number is updated in SIS ParentVUE to receive alerts and updates from the division. You can also download the FCPS App and enable push notifications.

Are you missing important notifications from the division or your school? It’s possible you accidentally blocked messages (yes, this happens). Submit a ticket with our Department of Information Technology to get this fixed.

AVID Chipotle Fundraiser

Support Twain AVID by eating at the Kingstowne Chipotle on Saturday, April 11th between 5:00 and 9:00 PM! Our program receives 25% of event sales which will help fund transportation for spring college visits. Order online for pickup using CODE DQEY7DQ or show this AVID Chipotle flyer in the restaurant. We appreciate your support!

NJHS Spring Service Project

NJHS is Collecting items to make Birthday Cake Kits for Local Food Pantries. We need to collect: 

• Cake Mixes
• Frosting
• Sprinkles
• Candles
• 9x13 Aluminum Pans

We will be collecting these items between Tues. April 7th-Fri April 17th. Donation boxes will be in the Cafeteria and Main Office. Thank you for helping us collect these items, because everyone deserves to celebrate a Birthday!

4700 Franconia Rd, Alexandria, VA 22310   |  Main: 703.313.3700
Attendance: 703.313.3737 | After-School Program: 703.313.3711
Web | Twitter  | YouTube

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page .

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PTA Updates SHOP BEAUTIFUL JEWELRY & SUPPORT MARK TWAIN PTA! 

Looking for the perfect gift for birthdays, end-of-school celebrations, or a special teacher thank-you? Now you can give something meaningful while giving back to our school community!

50% of every purchase goes directly to the Mark Twain Middle School PTA

Our fundraising goal: $4,000

• Proceeds will help fund Teacher Appreciation Weekand staff grants
• Ideal gifts for teachers, grandparents, family members, and friends
• Perfect for birthdays, graduations, and end-of-year appreciation

Park Lane Jewelry offers stylish, high-quality pieces at great prices — so you can shop with purpose and make a real impact for our students and staff.

Please share this Park Lane Jewelry link with grandparents, relatives, and friends

Every purchase helps support our students, teachers, and staff. Thank you for helping us reach our goal and strengthen the Twain community!

SPRING TIGER NIGHT:

Please save the date for our spring Tiger Night on Friday, April 17th, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

Ticket Sales will take place during lunch on April 14th through 16th.

Parents & Caregivers:This event cannot happen without lots of help. We are looking for volunteers.

SignUpGenius

Amazon Wishlist for Tiger Night

PTA NOMINATING COMMITTEE:

The PTA Board is seeking three PTA members to serve on the Nominating Committee. This committee plays an important role in identifying and accepting nominations from eligible individuals for each vacant PTA Board office for the 2026–2027 school year.

Serving on the Nominating Committee is a meaningful way to support the future leadership of our PTA and help ensure a strong and successful year ahead.

If you are interested in volunteering to help select next year’s PTA Board, please click here to sign up.

STAFF MEMBER OF THE MONTH:

Congratulations to Mr. Riley Pfadenhauer on being the Staff Member of the Month for the month of March! 

Please Note: No PTA News and Information on April 1

There will be no PTA News and Information on Wednesday, April 1 because of Spring Break. The next PTA News and Information will be Wednesday, April 8.

LINKS:

Staff of the Month Form

Nominating Committee Volunteer Interest Form

8th Grade Dance Volunteer Interest Form

Join the PTA: Membership Store

Purchase Spirit Wear: Spirit Wear

Social Media: Facebook & Instagram

4700 Franconia Rd, Alexandria, VA 22310   |  Main: 703.313.3700
Attendance: 703.313.3737 | After-School Program: 703.313.3711
Web | Twitter  | YouTube

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page .

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Principal's Message

Greetings Tiger Families!

I am excited to share that Twain's Odyssey of the Mind team won first place in their division at the state competition in Leesburg, Virginia, on Saturday, March 14! Odyssey of the Mind (OM™) teaches students how to develop and use their natural creativity to become problem-solvers and brings the classroom to life as students apply what they learn and combine it with their interests and passions to solve unique open-ended problems. OM also emphasizes teamwork, budgeting, time management, public speaking, and so much more. This international program is designed to help students at all learning levels grow as individual learners, grow as team members, and to reach their full potential. Learn more about the Odyssey of the Mind program on their website .

In addition to solving a spontaneous problem on the spot at the competition, the Odyssey team presented their solution to a long-term problem that they have been working on since October. They wrote a play about an epic quest that included original poetry and music and created their own costumes and sets. The students on this team are: Cooper Fennell, Jack Kaelin, Joe Kamaru, Stella Litvinov, Zachary Long, Julia Sitcovsky, and Audrey Yeston. Thank you to our volunteer coaches - Jennifer Jones and Amanda Litvinov – for guiding these amazing young people!

Next they will compete at the Odyssey of the Mind World Finals at Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa, May 27-30. Let's wish our team good luck at Worlds!

Eid Mubarak and Nowruz Mobarak to those who celebrate tonight and tomorrow. We look forward to welcoming our Tigers back on Monday.

Sincerely,

Matt

Twain’s Weekly Schedule 

Monday, March 23: Anchor Day Schedule

Tuesday, March 24: Odd Day Schedule

Wednesday, March 25: Even Day Schedule

Thursday, March 26: Odd Day Schedule

Friday, March 27: 2 Hour Early Release Even Day Schedule. Last Day of the 3rd quarter

After School Program 

1 st Block

    2 nd Block

Monday, March 23: 

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Tuesday, March 24:   

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Wednesday, March 25: 

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Thursday, March 26: 

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Friday, March 27: 

No After School

    Program

Calendar Reminders

Thursday, March 19, is an evening only observance day for Eid al-Fitr as well as Nowruz, which begins at sundown. Friday, March 20, is a holiday and all schools and offices are closed. Eid Mubarak and Nowruz Mobarak to all who celebrate!

Friday, March 27 this the last day of the 3rd quarter and is a 2-hour early release day. You can find our 2-hour early release schedule on our website .

SIS ParentVUE will be unavailable for students and parents during end-of-quarter updates from Friday, March 27, at 4 p.m.to Tuesday, April 14, at 6 a.m.

Spring Break is March 30 th through April 6 th, with students returning to class on Tuesday, April 7th for an anchor day. Twain’s Office will be closed during spring break and will reopen on April 6th.

See the complete school year calendar .

We Want Your Feedback! Principal Evaluation Parent/Guardian Questionnaire

On Monday, April 6, parents and guardians of [School Name] will receive an email with a link to the FCPS Principal Evaluation Parent/Guardian Feedback Form. This questionnaire is part of the Performance Evaluation Program and provides an opportunity to share anonymous feedback about our school’s leadership and environment.

Topics covered in the survey include:

✅ Instructional leadership

✅ School climate

✅ Management (human resources and organizational)

✅ Communication and community relations

✅ Culturally responsive and equitable leadership

✅ Professionalism

The questionnaire will be open April 6 - April 19 and will be collected online.When you receive the email invitation, please take a few minutes to complete it. Your input is valuable and helps shape the future of our school. Thank you for your time and feedback!

Educate Fairfax Student Bookmark Art Contest – “Today’s Reader, Tomorrow’s Leader”

Educate Fairfax, the 501(c)3 education foundation that partners with the community to support Fairfax County Public Schools students and educators, is launching a divisionwide Student Bookmark Art Contest during March. FCPS students in grades K–12 are invited to design a 2” x 7” bookmark celebrating the power of learning and creativity under the theme “Today’s Reader, Tomorrow’s Leader.”

Artwork must be original, flat (no glitter or pop-ups), and include the student’s name, grade, and school on the back. Entries will be judged on creativity, connection to the theme, and overall effort. Four winners (K–2, 3–6, middle, and high) will each receive a $25 gift card, and winning designs will be printed and shared in schools and the community. This initiative supports FCPS Goal 3 by promoting literacy and student engagement.

Submissions may be mailed to Educate Fairfax (8270 Willow Oaks Corporate Drive, Fairfax, VA 22031), emailed to [email protected] , or sent via pony mail. By submitting, students confirm FCPS enrollment and grant permission for printing and promotion (first name and grade only; parent/guardian signature required for winners).

Please click this link for instructions: Educate Fairfax Bookmark Contest Flyer and Instructions

2026 Special Education Family Conference

The 2026 Special Education Family Conference, Stronger Together: Connecting Families and Schools, will take place on Saturday, April 18, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Marshall High School . 

Dr. Shelley Moore will deliver the keynote address on The Evolution of Inclusion. It will look at how the goals of inclusion have continued to shift and evolve, as we learn more about diversity and identity. Participants will be invited to reflect on their own contexts and consider next steps for advocacy and action.

Visit the FCPS 2026 Special Education Family Conference webpage for more information, including breakout session offerings and a list of vendors that will be on site.  

Confirm your attendance for this year’s conference. Families may also register to serve as event volunteers. Please sign up by Thursday, March 19.

2026 Awards Recognizing Special Education Supporters

Nominations are open for the 2026 Fairfax County Special Education PTA (SEPTA) Awards, which recognize educators, staff, volunteers, and community members who go above and beyond to support students receiving special education services. The annual program celebrates individuals across FCPS who demonstrate exceptional commitment to inclusion, support, and student success.

Honorees may include teachers, instructional assistants, administrators, therapists, volunteers, and other community members who have made a meaningful difference in the lives of students and families. Nominations are open through Friday, March 27,and can be submitted online .

Award recipients will be recognized at the SEPTA Awards Ceremony on Saturday, May 2, where families, educators, and community members will gather to celebrate those helping build more inclusive and supportive school communities. Registration details for the ceremony will be announced at a later date.

Little Majors Soccer Camp This Summer

The Little Majors Soccer Camp is a high-energy training camp designed for youth players, ages 6 - 14, eager to develop their skills, challenge themselves, and thrive in a competitive atmosphere.

The camp will take place during the month of July at Mount Vernon High School Stadium Field, 8515 Old Mount Vernon Road, Alexandria, VA 22309.  The cost is $300 per person, per week.

Don’t miss out! Sign up now for this amazing soccer camp with the Mount Vernon High School coaching staff! Registration is open now until June 1 and space is limited each week.

To register, fill out the Little Majors Soccer Camp Google Registration Form .  Questions?  Contact Coach Donald Dane at [email protected] .

Order Your 2025-2026 Yearbook Buy your Yearbook today!

Go to: yearbookordercenter.com

Use our school’s code#: 8606

4700 Franconia Rd, Alexandria, VA 22310   |  Main: 703.313.3700
Attendance: 703.313.3737 | After-School Program: 703.313.3711
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PTA Updates SPIRIT NIGHT AT PANERA - TOMORROW!

Support the Mark Twain PTA Panera Fundraiser on March 19!

If you order through the Panera app or online using code FUND4U, your order counts all day— so you can participate for breakfast, lunch, or dinnerand still support Twain!

Join us in person from 4–8 PM at the Kingstowne Panera, or simply order through the app anytime that day.

5926 Kingstowne Towne Center, Alexandria, VA

Valid for In-Café, Drive-Thru, Pick-Up, and Delivery

SHOP BEAUTIFUL JEWELRY & SUPPORT MARK TWAIN PTA! 

Looking for the perfect gift for Easter, end-of-school celebrations, or a special teacher thank-you? Now you can give something meaningful while giving back to our school community!

50% of every purchase goes directly to the Mark Twain Middle School PTA

Our fundraising goal: $4,000

• Proceeds will help fund Teacher Appreciation Weekand staff grants
• Ideal gifts for teachers, grandparents, family members, and friends
• Perfect for Easter, graduations, and end-of-year appreciation

Park Lane Jewelry offers stylish, high-quality pieces at great prices — so you can shop with purpose and make a real impact for our students and staff.

The online event runs for one week, starting on March 18th and ending on March 25th.

Join the optional  Facebook Live event event to see featured pieces and styling ideas — or simply shop online anytime. Participation in the live event is not required to order.

Please share  this Park Lane Jewelry link with grandparents, relatives, and friends

Every purchase helps support our students, teachers, and staff. Thank you for helping us reach our goal and strengthen the Twain community!

SPRING TIGER NIGHT:

Please save the date for our spring Tiger Night on Friday, April 17th, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

Ticket Sales will take place during lunch on April 14th through 16th.

Parents & Caregivers:This event cannot happen without lots of help. We are looking for volunteers.

SignUpGenius

Amazon Wishlist for Tiger Night

PTA NOMINATING COMMITTEE:

The PTA Board is seeking three PTA members to serve on the Nominating Committee. This committee plays an important role in identifying and accepting nominations from eligible individuals for each vacant PTA Board office for the 2026–2027 school year.

Serving on the Nominating Committee is a meaningful way to support the future leadership of our PTA and help ensure a strong and successful year ahead.

If you are interested in volunteering to help select next year’s PTA Board, please click here to sign up.

STAFF MEMBER OF THE MONTH:

Congratulations to Mr. Riley Pfadenhauer on being the Staff Member of the Month for the month of March! 

EDISON MULCH SALE:

The Edison PTSA is hosting a Mulch Sale Fundraiser to support their All Night Grad Party!

This special event offers graduating seniors a fun, safe, and alcohol- and drug-free celebration on graduation night.

Support Edison and get your yard ready for spring at the same time!

Purchase your spring mulch here .

LINKS:

Staff of the Month Form

Nominating Committee Volunteer Interest Form

8th Grade Dance Volunteer Interest Form

Join the PTA: Membership Store

Purchase Spirit Wear: Spirit Wear

Social Media: Facebook & Instagram

4700 Franconia Rd, Alexandria, VA 22310   |  Main: 703.313.3700
Attendance: 703.313.3737 | After-School Program: 703.313.3711
Web | Twitter  | YouTube

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Principal's Message

Greetings Tiger Families!

In March (although not only in March!), we recognize the importance of arts education in fostering student creativity, confidence, and critical thinking. This wouldn’t be possible without talented Twain educators like Mr. Kluttz, Mr. Garfield-Levine, Ms. Tolpa, Ms. Becker, and Ms. Alvarez! Good luck to our orchestra, band, and choir students in their assessment concerts over the next few days! Last school year our music program earned superior ratings, were awarded the Blue Ribbon Award for Excellence in Music and a new accolade of being named a Program of Distinction. We are so proud of our student artists who showcase their talents and dedication not only in these competitive environments, but in their classrooms on a daily basis!

Speaking of how important the arts are…

The Virginia Department of Education has initiated a process to review and revise the K-12 Fine Arts Standards of Learning. It is anticipated that the review will be completed by June 2027.An important part of the review process for the Fine Arts Standards of Learning is requesting comments from classroom teachers, students, parents, administrators, curriculum supervisors, fine arts educators, and other groups who have worked with the current standards. Comments may be submitted via the 2020 Fine Arts SOL Public Comment Form . Public comments will be received for Visual Arts, Music, Theatre Arts, and Dance Arts through Monday, March 30.

Sincerely,

Matt

Twain’s Weekly Schedule 

Monday, March 16: Even Day Schedule

Tuesday, March 17: Odd Day Schedule

Wednesday, March 18: Even Day Schedule

Thursday, March 19: Odd Day Schedule

Friday, March 20: No School

After School Program 

1 st Block

    2 nd Block

Monday, March 16: 

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Tuesday, March 17:   

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Wednesday, March 18: 

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Thursday, March 19: 

2:30 - 3:35

    3:35 - 4:40

Friday, March 20: 

No After School

    Program

Eid al-Fitr and Nowruz (evening-only observance day, holiday)

Thursday, March 19, is an evening-only observance day for Eid al-Fitr, which begins at sundown. Friday, March 20, is a holiday, and all schools and offices are closed. See the complete school year calendar .

Eid Mubarak to those in our Muslim community celebrating! In Islam, Eid al-Fitr is a 3 day festival to mark the end of Ramadan. Muslims dress in new clothes, give charity, and pray in congregation. Nowruz Mobarak to all who celebrate! Nowruz, meaning “New Day,” is a more than 3,000-year-old spring festival marking the first day of the new year at the vernal equinox. Rooted in ancient Persian civilization, it is widely celebrated as the national new year in Iran and Afghanistan and across many Central Asian nations. 

Responsible Technology Use and Care

All Twain students are issued an FCPS purchased Chromebook for academic purposes. At the start of each school year, we review technology expectations and the acceptable use policy, which are part of the Student Rights & Responsibilities (SR&R). Students who do not properly care for their devices are subject to technology limitations, discipline consequences, and financial obligations for repair or replacement. The current replacement costs are: full Chromebook - $601, charger - $27.75, screen - $89, and keyboard - $37.

Middle school students across the school division were all given devices that have a protective case on them to mitigate damage. Some students do not like the case because it makes the laptop more bulky and they try to remove it. Please ask your student to see their laptop to make sure they have not removed their laptop case, which is meant to mitigate any damage to the device.

You can review more specific details about FCPS Student Device Use Guidelines at this link . 

April Statewide Election: No School for Students

There will be no school for students on Tuesday, April 21, for the Virginia statewide election. Student activities, athletic practices, and events may proceed as scheduled. Principals and directors of student activities may adjust event start times and entry points to ensure clear separation between student activity areas and polling spaces. 

Fairfax County Public Schools will still exceed the required number of instructional hours for students, as set by the Virginia Department of Education.

Sleep Awareness Week

The National Sleep Foundation’s Sleep Awareness Week is March 8 to 14. The observance highlights the critical link between sleep and health, both physical and mental. Read more about sleep health and sleep strategies you can try at home.

County Seeking Budget Input

About 70% of the FCPS budget comes from the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. They are currently reviewing the county’s 2027 Fiscal Year Advertised Budget and are considering possible adjustments before the final county budget is adopted in May.

Provide the county with feedback by completing this survey .

Virginia’s Governor Wants to Hear From You About Virginia’s Public Schools

The Virginia Department of Education offers a survey for Virginians to submit feedback on public schools . Let our governor know what a successful school looks like to you, and what challenges or barriers are currently preventing students from thriving. The survey will close on Friday, April 10.

Kingstowne Cup Basketball Team Tryouts!

If your child would like to participate in the Kingstowne Cup Basketball Team tryouts this year vs Hayfield, they will need an up to date physical on file from this past August on. This is a new requirement for our event as it is being grouped into the sports that FCPS is already running in the county.  Please use this Physical form if your child would like to try out.

All interested students must also fill out the Kingstowne Cup Registration Form before tryouts.

Girls Tryouts – Monday March 16th

Boys Tryouts – Wednesday March 18th 

Thank you for your support and please Contact Dominic Amato, Twain’s After School Specialist at [email protected] or 703-313-3760 if you have any questions

Support Twain NJHS at Chipotle!

Join us for a delicious way to support the Twain National Junior Honor Society!

Where:Kingstowne Chipotle Mexican Grill, 5955 Kingstowne Towne Center, Ste 160, Alexandria, VA 22315

When:Saturday, March 14th

Time:4:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Grab dinner for your family and help raise funds for Twain NJHS service projects and school initiatives!Dine in or Order online for pickup. For online orders use code: WL4CXJ4

Bring this Chipotle Fundraiser flyer or be sure to mention Twain NJHS at checkout so your purchase counts toward our fundraiser!

Every burrito, bowl, and taco makes a difference. Thank you!

AVID 8 University of Richmond Transportation Fundraiser

A tenet of the AVID program is to create an environment where students engage in authentic experiences leading to college readiness. A college visit in middle school prepares students for academic planning in high school and informs them about resources like financial aid and scholarship opportunities. Stepping onto a college campus helps our middle schoolers visualize their future as college students—a goal for all our Twain AVID scholars!

Twain’s AVID 8 students were invited to visit the University of Richmond this April, but we need help fundraising for a charter bus. We are looking to raise up to $2000 to cover the cost of transportation. Donations can be through MySchoolBucks .  We appreciate any help you can provide! If you have questions about this fundraiser, please contact Kate Balderston at [email protected] .

4700 Franconia Rd, Alexandria, VA 22310   |  Main: 703.313.3700
Attendance: 703.313.3737 | After-School Program: 703.313.3711
Web | Twitter  | YouTube

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page .

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

PTA Updates Membership Meeting - TONIGHT!

Please join us tonight for the March membership meeting.  Please register here .

Panera Spirit Night:

Support the Mark Twain PTA Panera Fundraiser on March 19!

If you order through the Panera app or online using code FUND4U, your order counts all day— so you can participate for breakfast, lunch, or dinnerand still support Twain!

Join us in person from 4–8 PM at the Kingstowne Panera, or simply order through the app anytime that day.

5926 Kingstowne Towne Center, Alexandria, VA

Valid for In-Café, Drive-Thru, Pick-Up, and Delivery

PTA Nominating Committee:

The PTA Board is seeking three PTA members to serve on the Nominating Committee. This committee plays an important role in identifying and accepting nominations from eligible individuals for each vacant PTA Board office for the 2026–2027 school year.

Serving on the Nominating Committee is a meaningful way to support the future leadership of our PTA and help ensure a strong and successful year ahead.

If you are interested in volunteering to help select next year’s PTA Board, please click here to sign up.

Staff Member of the Month:

Congratulations to Mr. Riley Pfadenhauer on being the Staff Member of the Month for the month of March! 

Spring Tiger Night

Tiger Night has been moved to Friday, April 17th, from 6 pm to 8 pm. 

Edison Mulch Sale:

The Edison PTSA is hosting a Mulch Sale Fundraiser to support their All Night Grad Party!

This special event offers graduating seniors a fun, safe, and alcohol- and drug-free celebration on graduation night.

Support Edison and get your yard ready for spring at the same time!

Purchase your spring mulch here .

LINKS:

Staff of the Month Form

Nominating Committee Volunteer Interest Form

8th Grade Dance Volunteer Interest Form

Join the PTA: Membership Store

Purchase Spirit Wear: Spirit Wear

Social Media: Facebook & Instagram

4700 Franconia Rd, Alexandria, VA 22310   |  Main: 703.313.3700
Attendance: 703.313.3737 | After-School Program: 703.313.3711
Web | Twitter  | YouTube