Coates Family Newsletter for 6/22/26

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In This Issue

1. Message from the Principal

2. Last Day of School

3. 6th Grade Promotion

4. Coates Summer Hours

5. Coates Summer Events

6. From FCPS

7. Chantilly Youth Football

8. Recognize Our Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

9. Mark Your Calendar


1. Message from the Principal

Dear Coates Families,

As we close the chapter on another school year, I want to take a moment to reflect on all that we have accomplished together. This year was filled with learning, growth, and countless moments that showcased the strength of our Coates community. Our students worked hard, our staff remained dedicated to providing exceptional learning experiences, and our families continued to support us every step of the way.

As many of you know, Coates has experienced tremendous growth over the past several years. While this growth has brought exciting opportunities, it has also presented challenges that come with being one of the largest elementary schools in the county. With the recent boundary adjustments designed to alleviate overcrowding, we find ourselves saying goodbye to many students, families, and staff members who will be beginning new journeys at other schools next year.

This transition is bittersweet. While we are grateful for the opportunities these changes will create for our school community, it is difficult to say goodbye to individuals who have helped shape the culture and spirit of Coates. The relationships built here will always remain an important part of our story, and we wish each of our departing Stars and staff members continued success and happiness in their new school communities.

As we look to the future, I am filled with optimism. The foundation we have built together is strong, and we will continue to grow, innovate, and strengthen our commitment to providing an exceptional educational experience for every student. Coates has always been more than a building—it is a community of people who care deeply about one another and work together to help every child shine.

Thank you for your partnership, support, and trust throughout this school year. I hope you and your family enjoy a safe, relaxing, and well-deserved summer break. I look forward to welcoming our returning Stars back in the fall and beginning another exciting year together.

With appreciation,

Paul Basdekis

Principal

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2. Last Day of School

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This past Wednesday marked the final day of school for the 2025–2026 school year. The day was filled with excitement, celebration, and plenty of emotion as we said goodbye to our Stars. There were many cheers and quite a few tears as students headed off for summer break and as we wished our students who will be attending other schools next year the very best on their new journeys.

To send our students off in true Coates fashion, staff members gathered along the bus loop at dismissal to wave goodbye and celebrate another successful school year. The smiles, hugs, and heartfelt farewells reflected the strong sense of community that makes Coates such a special place.

We are grateful for the memories made this year and wish all of our Stars and their families a safe, relaxing, and joyful summer. We look forward to welcoming everyone back in the fall!


3. 6th Grade Promotion

6th grade

Last Tuesday, we proudly celebrated our 6th Grade Promotion Ceremony, recognizing the accomplishments of the remarkable students who will be moving on to middle school next year. Families, staff, and students gathered to honor this special milestone and reflect on the growth, perseverance, and achievements of this outstanding cohort.

A highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the Lutie Lewis Coates Student of Excellence Award. This year's recipients, Kelcey Pham and Fredis Alvarenga Cerros, exemplify the spirit of Mrs. Lutie Lewis Coates, the woman for whom our school is named. Throughout their time at Coates, Kelcey and Fredis consistently demonstrated dedication, integrity, and a strong work ethic. They never shied away from challenges and inspired those around them to do their best. We are incredibly proud of their accomplishments and look forward to all they will achieve in the future.

Congratulations to all of our 6th grade students on their promotion to middle school! We wish them continued success as they begin this exciting new chapter.


4. Coates Summer Hours

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The Coates Elementary School office will be open throughout the summer from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Families who need assistance with registration, records requests, enrollment questions, or other school-related matters are welcome to contact us during these hours.

For assistance, please call 703-713-3000. We look forward to supporting our families throughout the summer and welcoming our Stars back for another great school year!


5. Coates Summer Events

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Mark your calendars for our Coates Summer Events on August 6, 2026! We are excited to welcome both new and returning Stars and their families as we prepare for another fantastic school year.

Families of our rising kindergarten students are invited to join us for a special read-aloud followed by Popsicles on the Playground, providing an opportunity for our newest Stars to meet new friends and become familiar with their school community. New families in grades 1–6 are welcome to attend a building tour to learn more about Coates and get acquainted with the school before the first day.

In addition, our Registration Help Desk will be available from 2:00–6:00 p.m. to assist families with enrollment and registration questions.

We look forward to seeing you on August 6 and helping everyone start the 2026–2027 school year feeling connected, informed, and excited to return to Coates!


6. From FCPS

Summer Resources Help Students Stay Curious, Healthy, and Busy 

FCPS’ Summer Resource Guide has activities and tips on a variety of subjects and interests, from camps and activities to health and safety resources. 

Be sure to check back over the summer, as more resources may be added. 

Learning Doesn’t Take a Vacation and Neither Does Fun!The FCPS Summer Learning webpage offers ideas and strategies for families to keep students curious throughout the summer. It’s the perfect time to help your student explore new interests, reinforce concepts, and stay engaged!


Summer Meals for Students

Starting Monday, June 22, no-cost meals will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis at the sites and times listed on the FCPS Summer Food Service Program webpage. Students must remain on site while eating their meals.

This year, thanks to generous support from Educate Fairfax, families may also receive one no-cost breakfast and lunch per adult at the following elementary schools: Braddock, Dogwood, Glen Forest, Hutchison, Hybla Valley, and London Towne.

Summer sites will continue to be added, so please check the Summer Food webpage regularly for updates.


7. Chantilly Youth Football

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Looking for a fun way to stay active, build confidence, and develop teamwork skills this fall? Registration is now open for Chantilly Youth Football for children ages 7–14. Players will have the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of football, improve their athletic skills, make new friends, and be part of a supportive team environment.

Families interested in registering can visit www.chantillyyouth.org/registration or scan the QR code on the flyer for additional information and registration details.

Chantilly Youth Football welcomes players of all experience levels and is a great way for children to stay engaged, active, and connected to the local community. Spots may fill quickly, so interested families are encouraged to register as soon as possible.

For registration information, program details, and important dates, please visit www.chantillyyouth.org/registration.


8. Recognize Our Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

FCPS Cares

The FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. We invite you to submit your story, so we can all acknowledge the good work of FCPS employees, specifically at Coates.


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