

Murray Elementary School
A Great Place to Grow
February 2025
Principal's Message
Dear Students & Families,
The Albemarle County School Board approved a new policy to support Personal Device-Free Education across all schools in our division. This policy is part of our efforts to create safe and focused learning spaces for all students. To support this policy, we’ve established practices for each school level to meet students’ needs and ensure consistency across the division. You can read our December 13 news release for more details.
While individual school practices may vary slightly within each level, schools will continue to communicate specific details directly with their families to ensure everyone understands how this policy will be implemented.
Elementary Schools:
Elementary schools will continue to enforce their rule that students may not use personal communication devices during the school day. This rule applies to students from the first bell to the last bell. In some schools, it also includes bus rides to and from school.
We appreciate your support as we continue to create a more focused learning environment for all students. If you have questions, please contact your child’s school.
Mark Your Calendar for Celebration of Cultures Night
Join Us for Multicultural Night!
Where: Murray Elementary School
When: February 13, from 5:30-7:00
Who: All students and families are welcome
Experience the World Without Leaving the School!
Taste Rice Dishes from Around the World
Menu: Rice from around the world, dumplings, churros or mochi, and waterVirtual Reality Journeys
Put on a VR headset and travel to amazing destinations across the globe! Explore iconic landmarks, bustling cities, and breathtaking natural wonders.Join Us for Multicultural Night!
Every student will receive a personalized passport to carry as they “travel” through each activity. Collect stamps from every station and become a global adventurer!
Don’t Miss This Exciting Celebration of Culture and Community!
Student-Led Conferenes
Why This Practice Matters
SLC require and empower students to take the lead in communicating their learning.
When students are asked to play a leadership role in selecting and presenting work to share they begin to take greater pride in the quality of what they do.
SLC connect families and school around the real work of students.
When students have ownership of the process and are required to make key decisions of what to include and what to say about it, this helps to build personal agency.
Roles for Student-Led Conferences
Role of Student
Lead Conference
Share Portfolio of work based on learning intentions/state standards
Role of Teacher
Creating clear expectations and guidance for the students to be successful
Communicating with families about the format and process of a SLC
Supporting the child during the conference if needed
Role of Family Member
Attend and be engaged
Ask Questions such as:
Can you tell me why this piece is important to you?
What does it say about you?
What were you thinking when you choose this piece of work for your portfolio?
What did you learn from this assignment?
Role of Admin
Support the Process
When will SLC be scheduled?
- Grade levels are in the process of communicating with families. Please look for more information from your child's teacher.
Fifth Grade Moving Up Ceremony
Thursday, Jun 5, 2025, 09:00 AM
Virginia L. Murray Elementary School, Morgantown Road, Charlottesville, VA, USA
When to Send You Child to School Reminders
Important Dates and Reminders
Please check out the school calendar for all other school events https://mes.k12albemarle.org/about/calendar