Monday, September 14, 2026 Lancer Times

Monday, September 14, 2026


Principal Message

Dear Lancer Families,

As we close out another strong week, I want to share a few important reminders with our community. We were contacted by McLean High School administrators following last week’s football game regarding the behavior of some Longfellow students in attendance. Unfortunately, some behaviors did not meet the expectations we have for our Lancers. Middle school students attending McLean High School sporting events need active parent/guardian supervision throughout the events. We want our students to enjoy these opportunities and support our community, but they must represent Longfellow and the greater McLean community with respect and good judgment. If concerns continue, students exhibiting inappropriate behaviors may be prevented from attending future games. We appreciate families reinforcing these expectations before and during the sporting events.

We also know that our community is processing heartbreaking news involving student safety and bicycles. Our thoughts are with everyone impacted. Moments like these are an important reminder for all of us to reinforce safe practices with our children, particularly when riding bicycles, walking, or traveling near roadways. Please take some time as a family to talk about bicycle and pedestrian safety, including wearing a properly fitted helmet, remaining alert to surroundings, and following traffic rules. The safety and well-being of our students remain our highest priority.

There are many positive opportunities ahead for our Lancers. Our after-school program begins today, and we are excited for students to take advantage of the activities, academic support, and opportunities to connect with peers and staff. School pictures are at the end of September, and our 7th-grade students will soon be participating in their MWEE field trip to Burke Lake Park, providing an opportunity to take their science learning beyond the classroom through meaningful, hands-on experiences. Thank you, as always, for your partnership and continued support of our students and school community. I hope you and your family have a wonderful week.

Chris Butzer
Principal, Longfellow MS

 


UPCOMING EVENTS

September

14       After School Starts
22-26 MWEE Field Trip for 7th Graders
23      TJHSST Information Session 2:45pm
24-25 Fall Pictures through PE Class


National Hispanic Heritage month

National Hispanic Heritage Month

From September 15 to October 15, FCPS recognizes and celebrates the histories and cultures of the members of our community who trace their heritage to Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. Learn more about National Hispanic Heritage Month.

September 26 through October 4, 2026-Blue Star Welcome Week

Our community and FCPS are proud to participate in Blue Star Welcome Week, a special event dedicated to welcoming military-connected families to the area. From September 26 through October 4, 2026, various events and activities will be held throughout FCPS schools and the region to show support and appreciation for military-connected families.

Blue Star Welcome Week is an annual event hosted by Blue Star Families, a non-profit organization that empowers military-connected families and strives to help them integrate into civilian communities. This week-long celebration offers newcomers the opportunity to connect with local resources, meet other military-connected families, and engage with the community. Please visit the National Capital Region Chapter to learn more about the events Blue Star Families and their partners will be hosting.

Longfellow wishes a warm welcome to our military-connected families! We are honored to have you as part of our community, and we thank you for your service.

blue star

 


DETAILS ON UPCOMING EVENTS

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) Information Session – September 23rd @ 2:45

On Wednesday 9/23/26 at 2:45 pm, Longfellow will hold a Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) Admissions Presentation for parents and students in the Lecture Hall. TJHSST is a selective secondary high school, and students must submit an application, complete the admissions exam, and be offered a seat to attend. To learn more about the TJHSST admissions process, visit TJHSST Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology Admissions | Fairfax County Public Schools (fcps.edu). Please RSVP for the Longfellow session by completing this Google Form.

School Picture Day is Coming Soon!