10 Things You’ll Love About Our School
Beech Tree Elementary School is a vibrant community dedicated to fostering personal growth and a love of learning in every student. We strive to create a supportive environment where students are empowered to reach their highest potential and develop the skills they need to succeed.
Student Programs
At Beech Tree Elementary, we offer a wide range of engaging student programs to enrich learning and foster personal growth. All students receive weekly instruction in Arabic and STEAM, expanding their language skills and creative thinking. Students can participate in various clubs, including Science and Math Olympiad, Get2Green, and Chess Club, along with leadership opportunities through Student Government and Student Patrols. Our music programs, including Band, Strings, and Chorus, culminate in winter and spring concerts, showcasing students' talents. Additionally, students produce and lead our daily morning news show. For families needing before and after school care, our SACC program provides a safe, supportive environment. With Restorative Justice Certified Teachers, we focus on nurturing positive behaviors and creating a strong, respectful school community.
Staff Recognition
At Beech Tree Elementary, our dedicated staff is committed to providing the best education for every student. Several of our teachers have earned prestigious awards, recognizing their excellence in teaching and their unwavering commitment to student success. These accolades highlight the passion, skill, and creativity our educators bring to the classroom.
Maddie Cleer, Teacher: Common Sense Educator Certified; World Smarts IREX Workshop Distinguished Educator; Certified Restorative Justice Facilitator
- Heather Walnock, Teacher: National Board Certification, Middle Childhood Generalist, 2008–2028; Nominated for Fairfax County Public Schools Outstanding Elementary Teacher 2005-2006, 2018-2019, 2022-2023; Nominated for the Brenton S. Halsey Teaching Excellence Award Spring 2005
- Jordan Vachon, Teacher: Nominated for Fairfax County Public Schools Outstanding Elementary Teacher Outstanding Teacher - 2023-2024
- Lyly Lieu, Teacher: Nominated for Fairfax County Public Schools Outstanding New Teacher 2018-2019 and 2020-2021; Common Sense Educator Certified
- Abby Parsons, Teacher :Nominated for Fairfax County Public Schools Outstanding New Teacher 2022-2023; Youth Mental Health Training Certificate; Featured in "Academic Matters" for PreK inclusion
- Rya Hall, Teacher: Future K-8 Mathematics Teacher Award from James Madison University's Department of Math and Statistics
- Greg Skrtic, Art Teacher: Northern Region Elementary Art Educator of the Year 2023
Community Engagement
Beech Tree Elementary offers a variety of engaging family-oriented events to foster a strong school community. Our Family Field Trips provide an exciting opportunity for students and their families to explore new places together with Beech Tree staff.
A Strong PTA
The PTA hosts numerous fun and interactive events throughout the year, including the Community Fun Fair, Beech Tree Olympics, International Night, PJ Bingo, Talent Show, dances, and a bake sale. Curriculum Night offers families a chance to learn more about the school’s academic programs, while PTA-sponsored Restaurant Nights provide a great way for families to support the school while enjoying a meal together. These events help build lasting connections and create memorable experiences for everyone involved.
School Culture
At Beech Tree Elementary, we offer a variety of programs that promote empathy, leadership, and school spirit. "Walk in My Shoes" helps students build empathy for individuals with differing abilities and challenges, while "Mentor Works" connects students with mentors for guidance and support. Our Beech Tree Ambassadors, a student-led welcoming committee, assist newly enrolled Beavers in making a smooth transition to our school community. As a Responsive Classroom School, we use a research-backed approach to create a positive, engaging learning environment for all students. Each month, our whole school comes together for a closing circle to reflect, unify, and celebrate joy. Special events like the annual student vs. teacher soccer game, Field Day, and School Spirit Weeks, including the exciting Bat Day, are highlights that strengthen our sense of community and school pride.
Our Facilities
As an Energy Star recipient, our school is committed to sustainability and energy efficiency. The building was renovated in 2012, incorporating the latest advancements in educational spaces. Technology integration is a key feature in every classroom, with each student in grades 1 through 5 receiving a laptop, and PreK and Kindergarten students using iPads. Our big, bright, and beautiful library is a hub of learning, featuring various learning spaces and even a stadium seating area for a unique experience. Additionally, our facilities are exceptionally clean, thanks to the hard work of the best custodians in FCPS!
Future Focused
Beech Tree Elementary is committed to preparing students for future success through a strong focus on college and career readiness. Our AVID program provides structured support to help students develop the skills and mindset necessary for success in higher education and beyond. Each year, we host an exciting College and Career Day to inspire students and showcase various paths to success.
Our POG Lab
In our POG Lab, students in grades K-2 receive weekly instruction in essential life skills, such as creative and critical thinking, collaboration, communication, and global citizenship. These Portrait of a Graduate (POG) skills are embedded into all learning, ensuring students are well-prepared to be goal-directed, resilient individuals. Students also engage in POG Presentations of their Learning, encouraging reflective growth and self-awareness.
Student Growth and Progress
At Beech Tree Elementary, we are proud of the growth and progress our students have made. From the 2023 to 2024 school year, we increased the percentage of English Learners making progress by 14%, highlighting our commitment to supporting diverse learners. We also made significant strides in reducing chronic absenteeism after COVID, lowering our rate by 3.7% for the 2023-2024 school year. We believe that consistent attendance is key to student success, and we celebrate when our Beavers show up and engage in their learning every day!
Environmental Awareness
Beech Tree Elementary is dedicated to providing a supportive and sustainable environment for our students. Our Sensory Garden, recently highlighted by a local news team, serves as a peaceful space where students can engage in calming strategies during recess. This garden is part of our commitment to promoting mental wellness. We are also proud to have received the National Wildlife Federation Certified Habitat Award, recognizing our efforts to support local wildlife and sustainability. Our Eco Schools Certification, awarded Green Flag Status—the highest level of eco certification—demonstrates our commitment to environmental stewardship.