Parents are invited to cheer on your child at our annual Patriot Pace fundraiser, beginning at 12:20 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 7. Donors sponsor a student to walk, jog, or run laps to raise money for updating the school resources. Lunch is provided after the event.
Spirit Week is here!
After scaling back extra school activities and field trips throughout the year, the students were ready to jump into something different, and spirit week provided just the right level of excitement and involvement that people needed. Everyone, from the smallest preschool student, to the oldest teacher (who shall remain nameless) got into the act, accessorizing outfits with anything from leopard … Read More
Jingle bells and all is well
Music concerts at FBTA
– by Cayli, sophomore – From the chilly nights and festive decorations, to the yummy hot cocoa and warm Christmas cookies, music seems to be something that brings most of the joy and holiday cheer to many students and staff at FBTA. This year, the Christmas concerts were virtual, with the elementary concert prerecorded and livestreamed on Dec. 8, and … Read More
Choirs and a mobile orchestra
How has COVID-19 affected music at FBTA?
– by Zachary, freshman – During the COVID-19 pandemic, many people could not attend music lessons because they were stuck in their homes. At the start of the school year, the reopening of music classes was delayed as the staff figured out how to disinfect the class area and to social distance. “We’ve realized that spreading out more helps provide … Read More
No days off
FBTA offers distance learning option this year amidst coronavirus concerns
– by Kiersten, senior – Students around the world are experiencing school in a different way this year. For some, it is simply wearing a mask and trying to remember not to hug their friends. For others, it is sitting at a laptop all day trying to navigate a virtual classroom amidst technical difficulties. Covid-19 has created a new environment, … Read More
New places to explore
Testing out the new playground high on To Do list
Students waited in anticipation as Mrs. Darby and Mrs. Pigott cut the ceremonial ribbon celebrating the opening of the new playground last spring. They were able to enjoy the place for two whole days before the world was shut down with the coronavirus pandemic. Now students will finally be able to explore the different areas and find their new favorite … Read More
Can you guys hear me?
Teachers’ takes on virtual teaching
– by Kiersten G, junior – Contrary to the wishes of many students, classes are continuing regardless of the fact that school is not in session due to the COVID-19 crisis. This has been a very big adjustment for the students, but it has been just as new for all the teachers and staff. In mid-March, the teachers had a … Read More
More free time inside
– by Ella S, sophomore – Now that the state of Virginia has been commanded to stay home, everybody must find a way to entertain themselves inside with limited outside exposure. Although it’s difficult to find new things to keep busy with, the students of FBTA have been doing just that. Some students have been taking advantage of the nice … Read More
Cutting the year short
Students open up about online classes
– by Andrea B, senior – When the governor announced that all schools in the state of Virginia would close for the rest of the year, that not only meant ending the 2020 school year earlier than usual, but also meant canceling many extracurriculars, like girls’ soccer, spring concerts, and the annual ODACS Fine Arts competition. “It’s sad that we … Read More
NODACS?!
Thoughts about ODACS cancellation
– by Andrew C, junior – Just days before the school was closed for the rest of the year, Mr. Bradford called the junior and senior high students into the chapel room to announce the cancellation of 2020 ODACS, causing mixed feelings for everyone in the room. Although the elementary grades were able to compete in ODACS, this was the … Read More