
Welcome
to the
2025 - 2026
School Year!
Message From Our Principal
Dear Van E. Blanton Elementary School Community,
Welcome to the 2025–2026 school year! It is with immense enthusiasm that I greet each of you, our returning families, new students, dedicated staff, and invaluable partners in education. I am proud to continue leading Van E. Blanton Elementary, a school rooted in excellence, equity, and innovation.
This year, we deepen our commitment to providing relevant, rigorous, and innovative academics aligned with Miami-Dade County Public Schools’ Strategic Plan. From fostering curiosity in our youngest learners to accelerating achievement for all students, we are cultivating a culture where every child is empowered to thrive. Our focus on academic success will continue with targeted literacy and STEAM initiatives, purposeful data-driven instruction, and meaningful enrichment experiences.
We know that student success flourishes in a safe, supportive, and joyful environment. With intentional efforts to promote well-being, reduce chronic absenteeism, and ensure a clean and secure campus, every child will feel seen, valued, and inspired each day. We also proudly welcome continued enhancements to our physical learning spaces that reflect the creativity and collaboration we strive to foster.
To our staff: your unwavering commitment to growth and excellence ensures our students receive the highest quality education. Through ongoing professional development and a shared vision for equity, you serve as catalysts for innovation and compassion in every classroom.
To our families and community members: you are vital to our collective impact. We will continue to expand opportunities for partnership and two-way communication because when families are informed, engaged, and empowered, schools flourish. We encourage you to explore our Parent Academy offerings, join our events, and serve as champions for our students’ dreams.
At Van E. Blanton, we are not just preparing students for academic success, we are preparing the next generation of thinkers, leaders, and creators. Let us embrace this school year with optimism and purpose. Together, we’ll write the next inspiring chapter of our story.
Thank you for your continued trust, collaboration, and belief in our mission.
With respect and excitement,
Dr. Fabrice Laguerre
Principal
Van E. Blanton


1
Announcements
End Of Grading Period Dates
First Grading Period
October 17th, 2025
Second Grading Period
January 15th, 2026
Third Grading Period
March 20th, 2026
Fourth Grading Period
June 4th, 2026
Interim Progress Report Schedule
September 19, 2025
November 21, 2025
February 20, 2026
May 8, 2026
Report Cards Available
October 22, 2025
January 22, 2026
April 1, 2026
June 10, 2026

2
Reminders
Our School Hours:
PreK, K, 1st
8:20 am - 1:50 pm
2nd - 5th
8:35 am - 3:05 pm
Wednesdays, All Grades
8:35 am - 1:50 pm
After School Care:
FCAA Star Program
PreK - 5th Grades
Dismissal to 6 pm
Monday - Friday
For Information, call:
786-719-0585 or 786-747-9364

3
Did You Know...
Mr. Van E. Blanton served in several educational positions including,
Dade County School Board Trustee, School Board Member, and
as Chairman of the School Board for several years.