The BULLS Bulletin: Week of 08/24
The BULLS Bulletin
An artwork of the Bull Run Elementary School grounds

Newsletter header: Bull Bulletin.  We see you. We welcome you. You belong here.

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Principal's Message:

Dear Bull Run Families,

As many of you know, our school family faced a profound loss this week with the passing of our beloved colleague, Patricia Lucas. In the midst of our shared grief, the strength, compassion, and resilience of this community have been nothing short of extraordinary. We took time to cry together, honor her memory, and support one another in ways that truly define what it means to be a family.

As the week continued, we were able to turn our focus to the important work of preparing for our students' return. Over the past few days, our team engaged in meaningful professional development, held meetings, and even shared a few fun moments together to recharge. We are fully prepared, deeply united, and eager to welcome your children back into a safe, warm, and inspiring environment next week.

I hope to see you tomorrow, Friday, August 21st, at our Open House (see details below). We can't wait to welcome both our returning and our new students and their families into the building!

Please see some important information in the Highlights section below.

Have a wonderful weekend!

-Mr. Marotta

 


upcoming events

 

August 21:

Popsicles on the playground and Open House (PreK and Kindergarten only) 10:30am-11:30am

Open House (Grades 1-6 only) 12:30pm-2:30pm

 

August 24: FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL!


September 04 and 07: NO SCHOOL (Labor Day Holiday)

 


*The full FCPS 2026-2027 calendar can be accessed here.

School Year Calendar

 See the complete school year calendar to keep track of school holidays, breaks, and observances.

  • Days marked with blue Hs are student holidays. 
  • Days marked with orange Os are religious and cultural observance days (or evenings if only half marked). 
  • Days marked in pink are holidays for students, but working days for teachers and staff.

HIGHLIGHTS AND WHAT'S NEW AT BULL RUN!


First Day of School

We can't wait to see all of our students back officially on August 24th!  Check out these back-to-school tips to make sure your child gets off to a great start. 


cartoon bull holding a welcome back sign, a school, and box with texts

Welcome Back to Bull Run Elementary!

We are so excited to kick off another fantastic school year! As we gear up for day one, here are a few key dates to mark on your calendar:

Open House (August 21st):

  • Pre-K & Kindergarten: 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
  • Grades 1–6: 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM

First Day of School: August 24th

Back to School Nights (Times TBD):

  • Pre-K – Grade 3: September 15th
  • Grades 4–6: September 17th

Let’s make this a great year! #chargerSTRONG


spiritwear

https://bullrun.deco-apparel.com/  Order Bull Run Spirit Wear at any time to get ready for the school year!


School Building

Updated Visitor & Entry Protocols at Door 1

To align with new county-directed safety guidance and enhance security across our building, we are updating our main entry procedures.

The inner vestibule doors at Door 1 will remain locked at all times. Please review how to navigate Door 1 based on the purpose of your visit:

Scenario 1: Dropping Off Items for a Student

  • Press the buzzer at Door 1 for access into the front vestibule.
  • Place the item (clearly labeled with your student's full name and grade) on the drop-off shelf located inside the vestibule.
  • Office staff will retrieve the item from the shelf and deliver it to your student.

Scenario 2: Early Student Pick-Up

  • Press the buzzer at Door 1 for access into the front vestibule and wait inside.
  • Office staff will communicate via the intercom to verify dismissal details (e.g., doctor’s note, prior email) and call your student to the main entry.
  • Remain in the secure vestibule until your student is brought down to meet you.

Scenario 3: Meetings & Volunteer Opportunities

  • Press the buzzer at Door 1 for access into the front vestibule.
  • A staff member will unlock the inner entry door to welcome you into the main office or direct you to your destination, after you scan your ID and check in using the Raptor Security System kiosk in main office.

These updated steps are part of a county-wide effort to keep our students and staff safe while maintaining an organized, secure learning environment. We appreciate your partnership and cooperation in following these new guidelines!

TIPS AND REMINDERS:


lunch box

Help Your Child Navigate the Lunch Line

Check out some tips to help your child get through the lunch line quickly and have more time to eat:

  • Teach your child their student ID number to receive meals at school.
  • Sign up for and add money to MySchoolBucks to purchase meals at school.
  • Apply for free and reduced-price meals. Students who were approved for free and reduced-price meals last year are eligible for the first 30 days of school this year (or until a new application is processed). Families should submit a new application as soon as possible, so eligible students continue to receive meals at no cost.

If your child has any food allergies, learn how to submit accommodations for dietary restrictions and allergens

Access menus for breakfast, lunch, and other school meals, as well as allergen and nutrition information.


Good News!  There is still time to get a jump start on the new school year!