FCPS

Upcoming Events

February 21: Dance Benefit Concert, 7pm, FHS Auditorium

February 22: Saturday School is Canceled

February 25: Band Pre-Assessment Concert, 7pm, Auditorium

February 26: Parents for Safe Teen Driving, 6pm, Auditorium

February 26: U.S. Service Academy/ROTC Night for 8th-11th grades, 7pm in the Commons

February 27: Orchestra Pre-Assessment Concert, 7pm, Auditorium

February 28: Cultural Observance Day: Ramadan begins at Sundown, and continues til March 30.

March 7: Principal's Coffee, 7:30am, Career Center

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

 

February 21, 2025

 

Fairfax High School Weekly Update

HAPPY Friday to all of our Fairfax Families,

This week, we proudly celebrated the 760 students who made the Honor Roll for Quarter 2! These hardworking students were recognized with certificates and enjoyed some well-deserved snacks. Their dedication to excellence makes our school shine!

On the athletics front, our trips to states have been slightly delayed, but that hasn’t dampened our excitement! We can’t wait to cheer on our gymnasts as they flip into competition, our track stars as they launch the shot, our wrestlers as they battle on the mat, and our swim and dive team as they make big waves in the pool. Stay tuned for updates as our LIONS compete at the highest level!

February is CTE Awareness Month, and we are thrilled to highlight the incredible Career & Technical Education programs and opportunities available to our students. From hands-on learning experiences to career-focused pathways, our LIONS are gaining valuable skills that will set them up for future success. Come out tonight for more industry entertainment and watch our Fairfax Academy Dance take the stage with  

Thank you for your continued support in making Fairfax High School a place of excellence and opportunity for all!

Have a PAWSome weekend! 

  Included in this issue:

 

Student Spotlight

• Unified Sports Team

School Program Spotlight

• Mane Market

Calendar Reminders

• Public Schools Week, Feb. 24-28
• Ramadan, Begins Sundown, Feb. 28
• Saturday School Dates
• Principal's Coffee, March 7

Fairfax Lions Need to Know:

• Breaking Down the Budget
• Talking to Teens about Tough Topics
• Virtual Therapy
• Protect Yourself from the Flu! 
• Student Fasting Meal Kits

Fairfax Lions Nice to Know:

• Fairfax Academy Dance Benefit, February 21
• Spring Sports Tryouts, February 24
• Varsity Tutors
• Student Services Information 
• U.S. Service Academy & ROTC Night, Feb. 26
• Golf Tournament Registration Now Open! 
• District News - In Case You Missed It
• Quick Links

Fairfax HS PTSA

• Mock SAT/ACT Information
• Donations Needed for ANG Silent Auction
• Meeting Reminders
• Join the PTSA!

Student Spotlights Unified Sports Team wins against Woodson! School Program Spotlight Mane Market

 

For the second year in a row, the Mane Market – our school store – has earned the DECA Gold School Based Business Recertification Award. 

The School-Based Enterprise (SBE) Chapter Certification Program provides recognition for outstanding achievement by school-based enterprises and motivates SBEs to strive for excellence and growth. Our Entrepreneurship 2 students created a 20-page Business Presentation describing our store and our plans for growth over the remainder of the school year. In the Mane Market, students sell Fairfax clothing and small items during lunchtime. We are in growth mode and designing and printing our own new Fairfax logo shirts. This opportunity has enabled students to feel like Entrepreneurs of their own small business.

🗓️Calendar Reminders Public Schools Week, Feb. 24-28

 

Public Schools Week is an annual celebration that brings together school leaders, educators, parents & community leaders to recognize the importance of our nation’s public schools.

Spanish: La Semana de las Escuelas Públicas es una celebración anual que reúne a dirigentes escolares, educadores, padres y líderes comunitarios para reconocer la importancia de las escuelas públicas de nuestro país.|

Korean: 공립학교 주간은 학교 지도자, 교육자, 학부모 및 지역사회 지도자들이 한자리에 모여 미국 공립학교의 중요성을 인식하는 연례 행사입니다.

See the complete school year calendar.

Ramadan begins at Sundown, Feb. 28

 

Ramadan begins at sundown on Friday, February 28. This day is an evening-only observance day. There is school on these days, but certain activities that cannot be made up can not take place after school. See the complete school year calendar. 

Saturday School Dates in March, NO Saturday School on Feb 22

Saturday School is held 9am-12pm in the Library. No sign up needed! Snacks provided; transportation is on your own.

Correction: Please note there is NO Saturday School on Feb 22

Q3 dates: March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29.

Next Principal's Coffee, March 7, 7:30am

Please join us coffee and conversation with the Principal! Friday, March 7, from 7:30-8:30am in the College & Career Center, room L106.

Fairfax Lions Need to Know: 📐 Breaking Down the Budget: Supporting Academic Growth and Algebra by Eighth Grade

The FCPS Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Proposed Budget invests in academic growth and excellence for each and every student, which is one of the priorities of the FCPS Strategic Plan. 

Since the 2023-24 school year, FCPS has seen a 9.5% increase in eighth graders taking Algebra I or more advanced math and a 6.8% increase in fifth graders in advanced math.

Studies show that students who complete algebra in middle school have more opportunities to take advanced math and science courses in high school. This can open up new academic paths for students! Watch a video that shows why eighth grade algebra matters. 

Learn more about the FCPS FY 2026 Proposed Budget.

Talking to Teens about Fentanyl and Tough Topics - Become Unskippable

 

Become Unskippable: Practical Guidance for Talking With Teens About Fentanyl

Teens skip things that don't interest them, including lectures from their parents. But young people die from fentanyl overdoses in Fairfax County each year — so it's important to have short, impactful talks with your teen, whether or not you think they’re at risk.

As a parent or caregiver, you have the power to become “unskippable” and talk with your teen in a way they will listen. 

See our tips for talking with your teen about fentanyl and other difficult subjects. Watch this video to learn more about becoming unskippable. 

💻 Virtual Therapy

Teletherapy services are available for all FCPS high school students at no cost. Sessions can be scheduled Monday through Friday, 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Hazel Health’s highly qualified therapists specialize in working with teens. Learn more on FCPS’ teletherapy webpage.

🤧 Protect Yourself and Your Community from the Flu

Image Courtesy of Fairfax County Health Dept.

Fairfax County is experiencing very high levels of influenza (flu) illness. The Fairfax County Health Department reports that visits to emergency departments and urgent care centers for flu-like illness have increased, especially among children, and multiple flu outbreaks have occurred in our community and school settings. Read a letter from the health department. 

The health department suggests taking the following steps to reduce the spread of flu and other germs:    

• Cover coughs and sneezes. If you must be around others while ill, wearing a mask can help reduce spread.
• Wash hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available (with supervision for younger children).
• Clean frequently touched surfaces.

According to the health department, to help prevent or reduce the spread of illness it is important for individuals who are sick to stay home and away from others until symptoms improve and until they have been free of fever for at least 24 hours. Visit this Attendance webpage for guidance on when your child should go to school.

Student Fasting Meal Kits

Student Fasting Meal Kits for February 28 - March 28Thanks to a new program from the Virginia Department of Education, students who are fasting during the school day between February 28 and March 28 can now take school meal kits home at the end of the day.Families will need to fill out a weekly Fasting Meals Request Form for their child or children to receive school meal kits. A separate form must be filled out for each week and each student.To receive meal kits for Friday, February 28, and the week of March 3, please submit the first request form by Monday, February 24. Visit the FNS webpage for more information, including weekly request forms and deadlines.

Fairfax Lions Nice to Know:  Fairfax Academy Dance Benefit - Tonight!

 

The Fairfax Academy Dancers are thrilled to announce their upcoming dance benefit concert, Move to Mend, taking place on February 21st at 7:00 PM in the Fairfax High School Auditorium. This special event will showcase talented students from the Academy Dance program, along with alumni and various performers from the community.

Now in its 7th year, this benefit dance concert is proudly presented by the Fairfax Academy for Communications and the Arts. This year's event will benefit the charity Hope to Heal, supporting those in need who are fighting various eating disorders.

Admission is free, and donations will be accepted to support this important cause.

“We are excited to harness the power of dance to raise awareness about eating disorders, which are so prevalent within the entertainment community. Our goal is to promote inclusivity in dance, especially regarding body types, and to raise funds for Project Heal, which provides crucial resources and treatment for individuals in need. We align with Project Heal’s mission to overcome systemic, healthcare, and financial barriers to healing from eating disorders,” said Meredith Barnes, the dance director at the Fairfax Academy.

The Fairfax Academy Dancers will be joined by an array of talented community groups, including Greater Washington Chinese Dance, Center Stage, DanceWorks at Mason, Ballet Embody, 1 PICK, Ash & Elm Dance Company, Helping Hearts Through the Arts, Rhythm and Arts Center, and the West Potomac Academy Dance program.

Spring Sports Tryouts Feb. 24 Spring tryout requirements and coaches information is below. Reach out directly to each head coach for sport specific information. 

 

Spring Sports Tryouts are February 24.

Requirements for 2024-25:

A completed VHSL Physical form dated after May 1, 2024

• VHSL Physical can be found on the athletic website: www.fairfaxhighsports.org.
• Questions, email Head Athletic Trainer, Amanda Johnston, at [email protected].

A completed Student Registration (must be completed or updated every year).

• https://fairfax-ar.rschooltoday.com/
• Questions, email Activities Office Admin. Asst., Lorie Spelman, at [email protected].

Spring Coaches and Emails:

• Baseball: Rick Freeman, [email protected]
• Softball: Jessica Grisler, [email protected]
• Girls Lax: Jimmy Conklin, [email protected]
• Boys Lax: Chase Tallon, [email protected]
• Girls Soccer: Glenn Alpert, [email protected]
• Boys Soccer: JC Gutierrez, [email protected]
• Crew: Gwen Sully, [email protected]
• Tennis: Steve Gallagher, [email protected]
• Track: Marcus Odell, [email protected]

📑Varsity Tutors

Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra learning resources. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes; on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring; essay editing; and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

Student Services Information

Academic Advising Continues!

FHS Academic Advising School Information
Rising 10th Grade Students (Class of 2028) - Feb. 13 to Mar. 3
No course request changes between March 24 and May 9
June 6, 2025 – Last day to make changes to course request

FCPS Summer 2025 Online Campus Courses OPEN NOW!

Registration for the Summer 2025 Online Campus courses starts Friday, February 14, 2025, and ends Friday, June 6, 2025. Courses are open to middle and high school students who meet prerequisites.

Paperless Report Cards

We’re excited to offer you a more convenient option for receiving your child’s report cards: Go Paperless!

By choosing to go paperless, you'll be able to:

• Access report cards directly in ParentVUE with just a few clicks.
• Reduce wait time in seeing your child’s report card.

Here's how you can opt-in:

1. Log into ParentVUE, click on "My Account," and select “Go Paperless.”
2. All parents/guardians living with the student at the same address must have an active SIS ParentVUE account to opt-in.
3. Once selected, the “Go Paperless” option will apply to all associated students, no matter their grade level.
4. If you’ve already opted for paperless for your secondary students, it will automatically apply to any younger siblings at the elementary level too!

U.S. Service Academy & ROTC Night, Feb. 26

 

9-11th Grade Parents & Students

Join Fairfax, Madison, Oakton, Marshall and Woodson High Schools for this informative evening…

U.S. Service Academy/ROTC Night

Wednesday, February 26, 2025 @ 7:00 pm

@ Fairfax High School - Cafeteria

Address: 3501 Lion Run, Fairfax, VA 22030

Representatives from the following academies and ROTC Programs are scheduled to attend:

• US Air Force
• US Army (West Point)
• US Navy & Marine Corps
• US Merchant Marine
• US Coast Guard

A representative from Congressman Gerry Connolly’s office will also be there to talk about the nomination process. 

The format of the program will be brief (3-5 minute) introductions from each Academy and ROTC Representative, followed by break out tables for students and parents/guardians to ask individual questions. 

No registration required.  For more information, contact Maureen Kim, FHS College & Career Specialist at [email protected], or 703-219-2204.

Snow Date:  March 6, 2025 @ 7 pm

🏌️‍♂️Golf Tournament Registration Now Open!

 

Join the Fairfax High Athletic Boosters for our Annual Fundraising Golf Tournament on May 19th as we raise funds for ALL athletic teams!

We invite you to tee off with us and encourage parents to leverage their connections to secure sponsorships. Whether you're playing on the green or engaging your network, your involvement is vital to our athletes' success. Swing or sponsor—either way, you make a real difference. Join us and contribute to a thriving athletic program at Fairfax High! Register for the Tournament and Explore Sponsorship Opportunities at www.fairfaxhighathlteticboosters.com.

Questions? Contact [email protected].

District News - In Case You Missed it

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• Middle School Start Times
• New Lunch Items
• Talking to Teens About Tough Topics

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today

Quick Links

• Fairfax HS Academy
• Educate Fairfax 
• FCPS Family Academy
• Family Resource Center
• FCPS CARES
• FCPS News
• Job Openings
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• SIS ParentVUE
• Standard School Year Calendar

District News - In Case You Missed It throughout the year:

• Visit the Fairfax High School Website
• Visit the Fairfax PTSA Website
• Sign up for News You Choose messages or update your account

Fairfax HS PTSA Table of Contents:

• Mock SAT & Mock ACT
• Donations Needed for ANG Silent Auction
• Join the PTSA! 

Mock SAT (digital) & Mock ACT (paper) Testing

On Saturday, March 22, 2025, the FHS Academic Boosters will partner with Applerouth Tutoring to offer the Mock SAT (digital format) and the Mock ACT (paper format) exams.

This is a perfect opportunity for students who haven’t started their testing, to become familiar with the format in a stress-free environment at FHS for only $25. Students will receive detailed score reports to help them determine which areas they need to study.

Mock (digital) SAT registration (limited to 75)
Test Time: Saturday, March 22nd, 9:00am – 11:45am
Cost: $25
Students must be from FCPS and bring a fully charged FCPS computer

https://applerouth.onecanoe.com/school/8801

Mock (paper) ACT registration (limited to 50)
Test Time: Saturday, March 22nd, 9:15am – 1:30pm
Cost: $25
https://applerouth.onecanoe.com/school/8801

This is our final Mock SAT/ACT of this school year.    

Questions: [email protected]

Donations needed for Online ANG Silent Auction

All Night Grad is holding our annual silent auction and virtual 50/50 raffle this spring and is looking for donations! These can be products, themed baskets, sports tickets, vacations, or business services. A Christmas gift you’re not sure you’ll use? A gift card to a restaurant you don’t frequent? Donate it to support the Class of ‘25! If you or your business have items or services to donate or are willing to solicit items from local businesses, please contact us at [email protected]. 

Donating businesses/families can be acknowledged on the silent auction site- including business information like website URL, photos, etc. Stay tuned for the auction link to bid on all of these wonderful items!

It's Never Too Late to JOIN PTSA

JOIN the PTSA to support our FHS teachers, students and community! Your member dues and donations work to fund ALL of our activities and programs, help keep you engaged and informed about what is happening in our school community, and provide opportunities to get involved and have fun with other families. Join us!  

Do you want to celebrate a Fairfax employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way? Or goes beyond what is expected? If so, then click here to share with everyone.

3501 Lion Run Fairfax, VA 22030  | Main Office: 703-219-2200

Attendance: 703-219-2211| Web

 

Upcoming Events

February 21: Dance Benefit Concert, 7pm, FHS Auditorium

February 25: Band Pre-Assessment Concert, 7pm, Auditorium

February 26: Parents for Safe Teen Driving, 6pm, Auditorium

February 26: U.S. Service Academy/ROTC Night for 8th-11th grades, 7pm in the Commons

February 27: Orchestra Pre-Assessment Concert, 7pm, Auditorium

February 28: Cultural Observance Day: Ramadan begins at Sundown, and continues til March 30.

March 7: Principal's Coffee, 7:30am, Career Center

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

 

February 21, 2025

 

Fairfax High School Weekly Update

HAPPY Friday to all of our Fairfax Families,

This week, we proudly celebrated the 760 students who made the Honor Roll for Quarter 2! These hardworking students were recognized with certificates and enjoyed some well-deserved snacks. Their dedication to excellence makes our school shine!

On the athletics front, our trips to states have been slightly delayed, but that hasn’t dampened our excitement! We can’t wait to cheer on our gymnasts as they flip into competition, our track stars as they launch the shot, our wrestlers as they battle on the mat, and our swim and dive team as they make big waves in the pool. Stay tuned for updates as our LIONS compete at the highest level!

February is CTE Awareness Month, and we are thrilled to highlight the incredible Career & Technical Education programs and opportunities available to our students. From hands-on learning experiences to career-focused pathways, our LIONS are gaining valuable skills that will set them up for future success. Come out tonight for more industry entertainment and watch our Fairfax Academy Dance take the stage with  

Thank you for your continued support in making Fairfax High School a place of excellence and opportunity for all!

Have a PAWSome weekend! 

  Included in this issue:

 

Student Spotlight

• Unified Sports Team

School Program Spotlight

• Mane Market

Calendar Reminders

• Public Schools Week, Feb. 24-28
• Ramadan, Begins Sundown, Feb. 28
• Saturday School Dates
• Principal's Coffee, March 7

Fairfax Lions Need to Know:

• Breaking Down the Budget
• Talking to Teens about Tough Topics
• Virtual Therapy
• Protect Yourself from the Flu! 
• Student Fasting Meal Kits

Fairfax Lions Nice to Know:

• Fairfax Academy Dance Benefit, February 21
• Spring Sports Tryouts, February 24
• Varsity Tutors
• Student Services Information 
• U.S. Service Academy & ROTC Night, Feb. 26
• Golf Tournament Registration Now Open! 
• District News - In Case You Missed It
• Quick Links

Fairfax HS PTSA

• Mock SAT/ACT Information
• Donations Needed for ANG Silent Auction
• Meeting Reminders
• Join the PTSA!

Student Spotlights Unified Sports Team wins against Woodson! School Program Spotlight Mane Market

 

For the second year in a row, the Mane Market – our school store – has earned the DECA Gold School Based Business Recertification Award. 

The School-Based Enterprise (SBE) Chapter Certification Program provides recognition for outstanding achievement by school-based enterprises and motivates SBEs to strive for excellence and growth. Our Entrepreneurship 2 students created a 20-page Business Presentation describing our store and our plans for growth over the remainder of the school year. In the Mane Market, students sell Fairfax clothing and small items during lunchtime. We are in growth mode and designing and printing our own new Fairfax logo shirts. This opportunity has enabled students to feel like Entrepreneurs of their own small business.

🗓️Calendar Reminders Public Schools Week, Feb. 24-28

 

Public Schools Week is an annual celebration that brings together school leaders, educators, parents & community leaders to recognize the importance of our nation’s public schools.

Spanish: La Semana de las Escuelas Públicas es una celebración anual que reúne a dirigentes escolares, educadores, padres y líderes comunitarios para reconocer la importancia de las escuelas públicas de nuestro país.|

Korean: 공립학교 주간은 학교 지도자, 교육자, 학부모 및 지역사회 지도자들이 한자리에 모여 미국 공립학교의 중요성을 인식하는 연례 행사입니다.

See the complete school year calendar.

Ramadan begins at Sundown, Feb. 28

 

Ramadan begins at sundown on Friday, February 28. This day is an evening-only observance day. There is school on these days, but certain activities that cannot be made up can not take place after school. See the complete school year calendar. 

Saturday School Dates in March

Saturday School is held 9am-12pm in the Library. No sign up needed! Snacks provided; transportation is on your own.

Q3 dates: Feb. 22; March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29.

Next Principal's Coffee, March 7, 7:30am

Please join us coffee and conversation with the Principal! Friday, March 7, from 7:30-8:30am in the College & Career Center, room L106.

Fairfax Lions Need to Know: 📐 Breaking Down the Budget: Supporting Academic Growth and Algebra by Eighth Grade

The FCPS Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Proposed Budget invests in academic growth and excellence for each and every student, which is one of the priorities of the FCPS Strategic Plan. 

Since the 2023-24 school year, FCPS has seen a 9.5% increase in eighth graders taking Algebra I or more advanced math and a 6.8% increase in fifth graders in advanced math.

Studies show that students who complete algebra in middle school have more opportunities to take advanced math and science courses in high school. This can open up new academic paths for students! Watch a video that shows why eighth grade algebra matters. 

Learn more about the FCPS FY 2026 Proposed Budget.

Talking to Teens about Fentanyl and Tough Topics - Become Unskippable

 

Become Unskippable: Practical Guidance for Talking With Teens About Fentanyl

Teens skip things that don't interest them, including lectures from their parents. But young people die from fentanyl overdoses in Fairfax County each year — so it's important to have short, impactful talks with your teen, whether or not you think they’re at risk.

As a parent or caregiver, you have the power to become “unskippable” and talk with your teen in a way they will listen. 

See our tips for talking with your teen about fentanyl and other difficult subjects. Watch this video to learn more about becoming unskippable. 

💻 Virtual Therapy

Teletherapy services are available for all FCPS high school students at no cost. Sessions can be scheduled Monday through Friday, 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Hazel Health’s highly qualified therapists specialize in working with teens. Learn more on FCPS’ teletherapy webpage.

🤧 Protect Yourself and Your Community from the Flu

Image Courtesy of Fairfax County Health Dept.

Fairfax County is experiencing very high levels of influenza (flu) illness. The Fairfax County Health Department reports that visits to emergency departments and urgent care centers for flu-like illness have increased, especially among children, and multiple flu outbreaks have occurred in our community and school settings. Read a letter from the health department. 

The health department suggests taking the following steps to reduce the spread of flu and other germs:    

• Cover coughs and sneezes. If you must be around others while ill, wearing a mask can help reduce spread.
• Wash hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available (with supervision for younger children).
• Clean frequently touched surfaces.

According to the health department, to help prevent or reduce the spread of illness it is important for individuals who are sick to stay home and away from others until symptoms improve and until they have been free of fever for at least 24 hours. Visit this Attendance webpage for guidance on when your child should go to school.

Student Fasting Meal Kits

Student Fasting Meal Kits for February 28 - March 28Thanks to a new program from the Virginia Department of Education, students who are fasting during the school day between February 28 and March 28 can now take school meal kits home at the end of the day.Families will need to fill out a weekly Fasting Meals Request Form for their child or children to receive school meal kits. A separate form must be filled out for each week and each student.To receive meal kits for Friday, February 28, and the week of March 3, please submit the first request form by Monday, February 24. Visit the FNS webpage for more information, including weekly request forms and deadlines.

Fairfax Lions Nice to Know:  Fairfax Academy Dance Benefit - Tonight!

 

The Fairfax Academy Dancers are thrilled to announce their upcoming dance benefit concert, Move to Mend, taking place on February 21st at 7:00 PM in the Fairfax High School Auditorium. This special event will showcase talented students from the Academy Dance program, along with alumni and various performers from the community.

Now in its 7th year, this benefit dance concert is proudly presented by the Fairfax Academy for Communications and the Arts. This year's event will benefit the charity Hope to Heal, supporting those in need who are fighting various eating disorders.

Admission is free, and donations will be accepted to support this important cause.

“We are excited to harness the power of dance to raise awareness about eating disorders, which are so prevalent within the entertainment community. Our goal is to promote inclusivity in dance, especially regarding body types, and to raise funds for Project Heal, which provides crucial resources and treatment for individuals in need. We align with Project Heal’s mission to overcome systemic, healthcare, and financial barriers to healing from eating disorders,” said Meredith Barnes, the dance director at the Fairfax Academy.

The Fairfax Academy Dancers will be joined by an array of talented community groups, including Greater Washington Chinese Dance, Center Stage, DanceWorks at Mason, Ballet Embody, 1 PICK, Ash & Elm Dance Company, Helping Hearts Through the Arts, Rhythm and Arts Center, and the West Potomac Academy Dance program.

Spring Sports Tryouts Feb. 24 Spring tryout requirements and coaches information is below. Reach out directly to each head coach for sport specific information. 

 

Spring Sports Tryouts are February 24.

Requirements for 2024-25:

A completed VHSL Physical form dated after May 1, 2024

• VHSL Physical can be found on the athletic website: www.fairfaxhighsports.org.
• Questions, email Head Athletic Trainer, Amanda Johnston, at [email protected].

A completed Student Registration (must be completed or updated every year).

• https://fairfax-ar.rschooltoday.com/
• Questions, email Activities Office Admin. Asst., Lorie Spelman, at [email protected].

Spring Coaches and Emails:

• Baseball: Rick Freeman, [email protected]
• Softball: Jessica Grisler, [email protected]
• Girls Lax: Jimmy Conklin, [email protected]
• Boys Lax: Chase Tallon, [email protected]
• Girls Soccer: Glenn Alpert, [email protected]
• Boys Soccer: JC Gutierrez, [email protected]
• Crew: Gwen Sully, [email protected]
• Tennis: Steve Gallagher, [email protected]
• Track: Marcus Odell, [email protected]

📑Varsity Tutors

Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra learning resources. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes; on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring; essay editing; and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

Student Services Information

Academic Advising Continues!

FHS Academic Advising School Information
Rising 10th Grade Students (Class of 2028) - Feb. 13 to Mar. 3
No course request changes between March 24 and May 9
June 6, 2025 – Last day to make changes to course request

FCPS Summer 2025 Online Campus Courses OPEN NOW!

Registration for the Summer 2025 Online Campus courses starts Friday, February 14, 2025, and ends Friday, June 6, 2025. Courses are open to middle and high school students who meet prerequisites.

Paperless Report Cards

We’re excited to offer you a more convenient option for receiving your child’s report cards: Go Paperless!

By choosing to go paperless, you'll be able to:

• Access report cards directly in ParentVUE with just a few clicks.
• Reduce wait time in seeing your child’s report card.

Here's how you can opt-in:

1. Log into ParentVUE, click on "My Account," and select “Go Paperless.”
2. All parents/guardians living with the student at the same address must have an active SIS ParentVUE account to opt-in.
3. Once selected, the “Go Paperless” option will apply to all associated students, no matter their grade level.
4. If you’ve already opted for paperless for your secondary students, it will automatically apply to any younger siblings at the elementary level too!

U.S. Service Academy & ROTC Night, Feb. 26

 

9-11th Grade Parents & Students

Join Fairfax, Madison, Oakton, Marshall and Woodson High Schools for this informative evening…

U.S. Service Academy/ROTC Night

Wednesday, February 26, 2025 @ 7:00 pm

@ Fairfax High School - Cafeteria

Address: 3501 Lion Run, Fairfax, VA 22030

Representatives from the following academies and ROTC Programs are scheduled to attend:

• US Air Force
• US Army (West Point)
• US Navy & Marine Corps
• US Merchant Marine
• US Coast Guard

A representative from Congressman Gerry Connolly’s office will also be there to talk about the nomination process. 

The format of the program will be brief (3-5 minute) introductions from each Academy and ROTC Representative, followed by break out tables for students and parents/guardians to ask individual questions. 

No registration required.  For more information, contact Maureen Kim, FHS College & Career Specialist at [email protected], or 703-219-2204.

Snow Date:  March 6, 2025 @ 7 pm

🏌️‍♂️Golf Tournament Registration Now Open!

 

Join the Fairfax High Athletic Boosters for our Annual Fundraising Golf Tournament on May 19th as we raise funds for ALL athletic teams!

We invite you to tee off with us and encourage parents to leverage their connections to secure sponsorships. Whether you're playing on the green or engaging your network, your involvement is vital to our athletes' success. Swing or sponsor—either way, you make a real difference. Join us and contribute to a thriving athletic program at Fairfax High! Register for the Tournament and Explore Sponsorship Opportunities at www.fairfaxhighathlteticboosters.com.

Questions? Contact [email protected].

District News - In Case You Missed it

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• Middle School Start Times
• New Lunch Items
• Talking to Teens About Tough Topics

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today

Quick Links

• Fairfax HS Academy
• Educate Fairfax 
• FCPS Family Academy
• Family Resource Center
• FCPS CARES
• FCPS News
• Job Openings
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• SIS ParentVUE
• Standard School Year Calendar

District News - In Case You Missed It throughout the year:

• Visit the Fairfax High School Website
• Visit the Fairfax PTSA Website
• Sign up for News You Choose messages or update your account

Fairfax HS PTSA Table of Contents:

• Mock SAT & Mock ACT
• Donations Needed for ANG Silent Auction
• Join the PTSA! 

Mock SAT (digital) & Mock ACT (paper) Testing

On Saturday, March 22, 2025, the FHS Academic Boosters will partner with Applerouth Tutoring to offer the Mock SAT (digital format) and the Mock ACT (paper format) exams.

This is a perfect opportunity for students who haven’t started their testing, to become familiar with the format in a stress-free environment at FHS for only $25. Students will receive detailed score reports to help them determine which areas they need to study.

Mock (digital) SAT registration (limited to 75)
Test Time: Saturday, March 22nd, 9:00am – 11:45am
Cost: $25
Students must be from FCPS and bring a fully charged FCPS computer

https://applerouth.onecanoe.com/school/8801

Mock (paper) ACT registration (limited to 50)
Test Time: Saturday, March 22nd, 9:15am – 1:30pm
Cost: $25
https://applerouth.onecanoe.com/school/8801

This is our final Mock SAT/ACT of this school year.    

Questions: [email protected]

Donations needed for Online ANG Silent Auction

All Night Grad is holding our annual silent auction and virtual 50/50 raffle this spring and is looking for donations! These can be products, themed baskets, sports tickets, vacations, or business services. A Christmas gift you’re not sure you’ll use? A gift card to a restaurant you don’t frequent? Donate it to support the Class of ‘25! If you or your business have items or services to donate or are willing to solicit items from local businesses, please contact us at [email protected]. 

Donating businesses/families can be acknowledged on the silent auction site- including business information like website URL, photos, etc. Stay tuned for the auction link to bid on all of these wonderful items!

It's Never Too Late to JOIN PTSA

JOIN the PTSA to support our FHS teachers, students and community! Your member dues and donations work to fund ALL of our activities and programs, help keep you engaged and informed about what is happening in our school community, and provide opportunities to get involved and have fun with other families. Join us!  

Do you want to celebrate a Fairfax employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way? Or goes beyond what is expected? If so, then click here to share with everyone.

3501 Lion Run Fairfax, VA 22030  | Main Office: 703-219-2200

Attendance: 703-219-2211| Web

 

Upcoming Events

February 17: Washington's Birthday and President's Day Holiday; No School

February 18: PTSA Meeting, 7pm, ANG Meeting, 8pm, FHS Library

February 21: Dance Benefit Concert, 7pm, FHS Auditorium

February 25: Band Pre-Assessment Concert, 7pm, Auditorium

February 26: Parents for Safe Teen Driving, 6pm, Auditorium

February 26: U.S. Service Academy/ROTC Night for 8th-11th grades, 7pm in the Commons

February 27: Orchestra Pre-Assessment Concert, 7pm, Auditorium

February 28: Cultural Observance Day: Ramadan begins at Sundown, and continues til March 30.

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Happy Valentine's Day!

 

February 14, 2025

 

Lions Roar with Pride: A Week of Kindness, Winning, and Fun!

Dear Lion Family,

What a week it's been at our school! As we continue to embrace the spirit of kindness and celebration, our Lions have been shining in every way possible. Here's a glimpse of all the amazing things happening around our school this week:

Random Acts of Kindness Week kicked off our week with a wave of empathy and care. Our students shared kind words, crafted thoughtful cards, and spread joy through little treats and meaningful gestures. It was heartwarming to witness so many of our Lions showing their compassionate sides and making each other smile.

Our wrestlers truly showcased their hard work and dedication as we hosted the regional competition. We’re thrilled to announce that our talented athletes are headed to states, and we couldn't be more proud of their achievements. Go Lions!

The Swim and Dive team made a splash of their own, with several swimmers earning spots at states! We're excited to cheer them on as they represent our school in the coming week.

We also took a moment this week to celebrate some of our graduating Lions, recognizing their determination and a strong finish. We’re so proud of their journey, and we can’t wait to see the incredible things they will accomplish next!

In honor of CTE Month, our brilliant DECA students hosted a series of fun and engaging team-building activities for DECA Days.  From card making to trivia and bracelet making, they came together in creative and meaningful ways.

Finally, to cap off this exciting week, Fun Friday was filled with LION LOVE in celebration of Valentine's Day. There was something for everyone, from bake sales and candy grams to bingo and karaoke songs—every moment was filled with PAWSitive vibes.

Let’s keep our Lion pride strong and continue to spread love, joy, and success in everything we do!

In collaboration,

  Included in this issue:

 

Staff Spotlight

• School Resource Officer Patrick Lynch

Community Spotlight

• Food for Neighbors

Calendar Reminders

• President's Day, Feb. 17, No School
• Crossing Guard Appreciation Day, Feb. 12
• Saturday School Dates

Fairfax Lions Need to Know:

• Protect Yourself from the Flu! 
• SEL Screener
• Student Fasting Meal Kits
• Black History Month Celebration, New Date: Feb. 19

Fairfax Lions Nice to Know:

• Fairfax Academy Presents: "Move to Mend" Dance Benefit
• Student Services Information 
• U.S. Service Academy & ROTC Night, Feb. 26
• Golf Tournament Registration Now Open! 
• District News - In Case You Missed It
• Quick Links

Fairfax HS PTSA

• Donations Needed for ANG Silent Auction
• Meeting Reminders
• Join the PTSA!

Staff Spotlight School Resource Officer Day, Feb. 15

The SRO assignment is unique within the law enforcement profession. These sworn law enforcement officers fill a three-part role, serving as informal mentors or counselors, law educators, and law enforcement officers to support the students and communities they serve. Here at Fairfax High School, we are proud and grateful to have Officer Patrick Lynch as a valuable and essential member of our community. He and his fellow officers deserve our unwavering respect and support from the public in the pursuit of keeping schools and students safe.

Thank you, Officer Lynch, for all you do for us Lions, every day! We appreciate you!

Community Spotlight Food for Neighbors

 

Fairfax High School is partnering with Food For Neighbors to help feed our local students who deal with food insecurity outside of school hours. Even in a county as wealthy as Fairfax, one in four kids in our area are struggling with hunger. Food For Neighbors is a local organization addressing this problem by collecting food from our community via the Red Bag Program and donating directly to our local schools. The food is then distributed to the students every week through our food pantry.

We hope you will consider participating in the Red Bag food collection program. You can make a difference in a local student’s life by simply adding a few extra items to your shopping cart every two months.

Here’s how it works:

1. Request a reusable Red Bag here and Food For Neighbors will drop it off at your house.
2. Fill the Red Bag with food items that are listed on a tag on that bag.
3. Put the Red Bag outside your front door in the morning on the next bag collection day.

Collection dates are also listed on the bag tag. And don’t worry, FFN will send reminders. Your Red Bag will be picked up from your house, the food sorted at a local school and delivered directly to the school food pantry at FHS. As an added benefit, you can get a tax deduction for the food that you donate!
With your help, even more kids can be fed. For more information on the Red Bag program click here. Visit the FFN FAQ page to find out more and to sign up to volunteer in these two very important roles:

https://www.foodforneighbors.org/about-1/frequently-asked-questions/

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact school parent liaison, Hala Shafik, [email protected], or school social worker, Kailyn Slade, [email protected], or Karen Joseph, at [email protected].

Thank you for helping us provide food to students who need that extra support!
Hunger Is Closer Than You Think! www.FoodForNeighbors.

🗓️Calendar Reminders Presidents Day Holiday, February 17

 

All schools and offices will be closed on Monday, February 17, for the Presidents Day holiday. See the complete school year calendar.

Spanish: Día de los Presidentes (Feriado)Todas las escuelas y oficinas permanecerán cerradas el Lunes, 17 de Febrero por el feriado del Día de los Presidentes. Vea el calendario completo del año escolar.

Korean: 대통령의 날 (공휴일)상기 사항  2월 19일 월요일은 대통령의 날로 모든 학교와 사무실이 휴무입니다. 전체 학년도 일정을 확인하세요.

February 12 was School Crossing Guard Appreciation Day in Virginia. Take a moment to thank your crossing guard for ensuring that students cross busy streets safely.

Saturday School Dates, closed on Feb. 15

Saturday School is held 9am-12pm in the Library. No sign up needed! Snacks provided; transportation is on your own.

Please note that there is NO Saturday School on February 15. The next dates are:

Q3 dates: Feb. 22; March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29.

Fairfax Lions Need to Know: 🤧 Protect Yourself and Your Community
from the Flu

Image Courtesy of Fairfax County Health Dept.

Fairfax County is experiencing very high levels of influenza (flu) illness. The Fairfax County Health Department reports that visits to emergency departments and urgent care centers for flu-like illness have increased, especially among children, and multiple flu outbreaks have occurred in our community and school settings. Read a letter from the health department. 

The health department suggests taking the following steps to reduce the spread of flu and other germs:    

• Cover coughs and sneezes. If you must be around others while ill, wearing a mask can help reduce spread.
• Wash hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available (with supervision for younger children).
• Clean frequently touched surfaces.

According to the health department, to help prevent or reduce the spread of illness it is important for individuals who are sick to stay home and away from others until symptoms improve and until they have been free of fever for at least 24 hours. Visit this Attendance webpage for guidance on when your child should go to school.

SEL Screener

Learn More About How Your Child Feels at School

The Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener will be administered to students in grades 3-12 in March. Students use the SEL Screener twice a year to share their perspectives on how well their school and community help them develop the skills they need to succeed. The screener works by asking questions or presenting statements that students can think about and respond to. This gives students a way to share how well their school community makes them feel valued, included, and supported.

After each screening, results are available in the Documents tab of SIS ParentVUE and mailed to families who do not have a ParentVUE account. For more information, including SEL Screener questions and opt-out information, please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage. 

Student Fasting Meal Kits

Student Fasting Meal Kits for February 28 - March 28Thanks to a new program from the Virginia Department of Education, students who are fasting during the school day between February 28 and March 28 can now take school meal kits home at the end of the day.Families will need to fill out a weekly Fasting Meals Request Form for their child or children to receive school meal kits. A separate form must be filled out for each week and each student.To receive meal kits for Friday, February 28, and the week of March 3, please submit the first request form by Monday, February 24. Visit the FNS webpage for more information, including weekly request forms and deadlines.

Black History Month Celebration - Date Change!

FCPS’ Chief Equity Office invites the community to an Inaugural Black History Month Kickoff Celebration on Wednesday, February 19, 5:30-7:30pm, at Carter G. Woodson High School.   

The event begins with a light reception followed by a formal program, From the Threads of Our Past to the Fabric of Our Future. The program will honor the enduring contributions of Black history and culture while envisioning a future rooted in equity and excellence. It will include inspiring performances, personal stories, reflections, and opportunities to connect and celebrate. The event is open to the entire community. 

For more information, contact Nina Thomas, senior manager for Professional Learning and Cultural Responsiveness.

Fairfax Lions Nice to Know:  Fairfax Academy Dance Benefit

 

The Fairfax Academy Dancers are thrilled to announce their upcoming dance benefit concert, Move to Mend, taking place on February 21st at 7:00 PM in the Fairfax High School Auditorium. This special event will showcase talented students from the Academy Dance program, along with alumni and various performers from the community.

Now in its 7th year, this benefit dance concert is proudly presented by the Fairfax Academy for Communications and the Arts. This year's event will benefit the charity Hope to Heal, supporting those in need who are fighting various eating disorders.

Admission is free, and donations will be accepted to support this important cause.

“We are excited to harness the power of dance to raise awareness about eating disorders, which are so prevalent within the entertainment community. Our goal is to promote inclusivity in dance, especially regarding body types, and to raise funds for Project Heal, which provides crucial resources and treatment for individuals in need. We align with Project Heal’s mission to overcome systemic, healthcare, and financial barriers to healing from eating disorders,” said Meredith Barnes, the dance director at the Fairfax Academy.

The Fairfax Academy Dancers will be joined by an array of talented community groups, including Greater Washington Chinese Dance, Center Stage, DanceWorks at Mason, Ballet Embody, 1 PICK, Ash & Elm Dance Company, Helping Hearts Through the Arts, Rhythm and Arts Center, and the West Potomac Academy Dance program.

Student Services Information

Academic Advising Continues!

FHS Academic Advising School Information
Rising 10th Grade Students (Class of 2028) - Feb. 13 to Mar. 3
No course request changes between March 24 and May 9
June 6, 2025 – Last day to make changes to course request

FCPS Summer 2025 Online Campus Courses OPEN NOW!

Registration for the Summer 2025 Online Campus courses starts Friday, February 14, 2025, and ends Friday, June 6, 2025. Courses are open to middle and high school students who meet prerequisites.

Paperless Report Cards

We’re excited to offer you a more convenient option for receiving your child’s report cards: Go Paperless!

By choosing to go paperless, you'll be able to:

• Access report cards directly in ParentVUE with just a few clicks.
• Reduce wait time in seeing your child’s report card.

Here's how you can opt-in:

1. Log into ParentVUE, click on "My Account," and select “Go Paperless.”
2. All parents/guardians living with the student at the same address must have an active SIS ParentVUE account to opt-in.
3. Once selected, the “Go Paperless” option will apply to all associated students, no matter their grade level.
4. If you’ve already opted for paperless for your secondary students, it will automatically apply to any younger siblings at the elementary level too!

U.S. Service Academy & ROTC Night, Feb. 26

 

9-11th Grade Parents & Students

Join Fairfax, Madison, Oakton, Marshall and Woodson High Schools for this informative evening…

U.S. Service Academy/ROTC Night

Wednesday, February 26, 2025 @ 7:00 pm

@ Fairfax High School - Cafeteria

Address: 3501 Lion Run, Fairfax, VA 22030

Representatives from the following academies and ROTC Programs are scheduled to attend:

• US Air Force
• US Army (West Point)
• US Navy & Marine Corps
• US Merchant Marine
• US Coast Guard

A representative from Congressman Gerry Connolly’s office will also be there to talk about the nomination process. 

The format of the program will be brief (3-5 minute) introductions from each Academy and ROTC Representative, followed by break out tables for students and parents/guardians to ask individual questions. 

No registration required.  For more information, contact Maureen Kim, FHS College & Career Specialist at [email protected], or 703-219-2204.

Snow Date:  March 6, 2025 @ 7 pm

🏌️‍♂️Golf Tournament Registration Now Open!

 

Registration is NOW OPEN for the 2025 FHS Athletic Boosters Golf Tournament! ⛳ Join us on Monday, May 19, at the Country Club of Fairfax for a day of golf, fun, and community—all while raising funds for ALL Fairfax High School athletic teams!

Last year’s event SOLD OUT, so don’t wait! Register early to secure your spot! 🔗 Sign up today at www.fairfaxhighathleticboosters.com

#FHSBoosters #GolfTournament #SupportFairfaxAthletics #FairfaxLions #AthleticsFundraiser

District News - In Case You Missed it

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• Flu Prevention
• Students Spread Joy
• Investing in our Classrooms

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today

Quick Links

• Fairfax HS Academy
• Educate Fairfax 
• FCPS Family Academy
• Family Resource Center
• FCPS CARES
• FCPS News
• Job Openings
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• SIS ParentVUE
• Standard School Year Calendar

District News - In Case You Missed It throughout the year:

• Visit the Fairfax High School Website
• Visit the Fairfax PTSA Website
• Sign up for News You Choose messages or update your account

Fairfax HS PTSA Table of Contents:

• Donations Needed for ANG Silent Auction
• Meeting Reminders
• Join the PTSA! 

Donations needed for Online ANG Silent Auction

All Night Grad is holding our annual silent auction and virtual 50/50 raffle this spring and is looking for donations! These can be products, themed baskets, sports tickets, vacations, or business services. A Christmas gift you’re not sure you’ll use? A gift card to a restaurant you don’t frequent? Donate it to support the Class of ‘25! If you or your business have items or services to donate or are willing to solicit items from local businesses, please contact us at [email protected]. 

Donating businesses/families can be acknowledged on the silent auction site- including business information like website URL, photos, etc. Stay tuned for the auction link to bid on all of these wonderful items!

PTSA & ANG Meetings on February 18

The next PTSA meeting is Tuesday, Feb. 18th at 7:00pm in the Library. Immediately following, is the ANG (All Night Grad) meeting at 8pm.

Please join us! 

It's Never Too Late to JOIN PTSA

JOIN the PTSA to support our FHS teachers, students and community! Your member dues and donations work to fund ALL of our activities and programs, help keep you engaged and informed about what is happening in our school community, and provide opportunities to get involved and have fun with other families. Join us!  

Do you want to celebrate a Fairfax employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way? Or goes beyond what is expected? If so, then click here to share with everyone.

3501 Lion Run Fairfax, VA 22030  | Main Office: 703-219-2200

Attendance: 703-219-2211| Web

 

Upcoming Events

February 17: Washington's Birthday and President's Day Holiday; No School

February 18: PTSA Meeting, 7pm, ANG Meeting, 8pm, FHS Library

February 21: Dance Benefit Concert, 7pm, FHS Auditorium

February 25: Band Pre-Assessment Concert, 7pm, Auditorium

February 26: Parents for Safe Teen Driving, 6pm, Auditorium

February 26: U.S. Service Academy/ROTC Night for 8th-11th grades, 7pm in the Commons

February 27: Orchestra Pre-Assessment Concert, 7pm, Auditorium

February 28: Cultural Observance Day: Ramadan begins at Sundown, and continues til March 30.

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Happy Valentine's Day!

 

February 14, 2025

 

Lions Roar with Pride: A Week of Kindness, Winning, and Fun!

Dear Lion Family,

What a week it's been at our school! As we continue to embrace the spirit of kindness and celebration, our Lions have been shining in every way possible. Here's a glimpse of all the amazing things happening around our school this week:

Random Acts of Kindness Week kicked off our week with a wave of empathy and care. Our students shared kind words, crafted thoughtful cards, and spread joy through little treats and meaningful gestures. It was heartwarming to witness so many of our Lions showing their compassionate sides and making each other smile.

Our wrestlers truly showcased their hard work and dedication as we hosted the regional competition. We’re thrilled to announce that our talented athletes are headed to states, and we couldn't be more proud of their achievements. Go Lions!

The Swim and Dive team made a splash of their own, with several swimmers earning spots at states! We're excited to cheer them on as they represent our school in the coming week.

We also took a moment this week to celebrate some of our graduating Lions, recognizing their determination and a strong finish. We’re so proud of their journey, and we can’t wait to see the incredible things they will accomplish next!

In honor of CTE Month, our brilliant DECA students hosted a series of fun and engaging team-building activities for DECA Days.  From card making to trivia and bracelet making, they came together in creative and meaningful ways.

 

  Included in this issue:

 

Staff Spotlight

• School Resource Officer Patrick Lynch

Community Spotlight

• Food for Neighbors

Calendar Reminders

• President's Day, Feb. 17, No School
• Crossing Guard Appreciation Day, Feb. 12
• Saturday School Dates

Fairfax Lions Need to Know:

• Protect Yourself from the Flu! 
• SEL Screener
• Student Fasting Meal Kits
• Black History Month Celebration, New Date: Feb. 19

Fairfax Lions Nice to Know:

• Fairfax Academy Presents: "Move to Mend" Dance Benefit
• Student Services Information 
• U.S. Service Academy & ROTC Night, Feb. 26
• Golf Tournament Registration Now Open! 
• District News - In Case You Missed It
• Quick Links

Fairfax HS PTSA

• Donations Needed for ANG Silent Auction
• Meeting Reminders
• Join the PTSA!

Staff Spotlight School Resource Officer Day, Feb. 15

The SRO assignment is unique within the law enforcement profession. These sworn law enforcement officers fill a three-part role, serving as informal mentors or counselors, law educators, and law enforcement officers to support the students and communities they serve. Here at Fairfax High School, we are proud and grateful to have Officer Patrick Lynch as a valuable and essential member of our community. He and his fellow officers deserve our unwavering respect and support from the public in the pursuit of keeping schools and students safe.

Thank you, Officer Lynch, for all you do for us Lions, every day! We appreciate you!

Community Spotlight Food for Neighbors

 

Fairfax High School is partnering with Food For Neighbors to help feed our local students who deal with food insecurity outside of school hours. Even in a county as wealthy as Fairfax, one in four kids in our area are struggling with hunger. Food For Neighbors is a local organization addressing this problem by collecting food from our community via the Red Bag Program and donating directly to our local schools. The food is then distributed to the students every week through our food pantry.

We hope you will consider participating in the Red Bag food collection program. You can make a difference in a local student’s life by simply adding a few extra items to your shopping cart every two months.

Here’s how it works:

1. Request a reusable Red Bag here and Food For Neighbors will drop it off at your house.
2. Fill the Red Bag with food items that are listed on a tag on that bag.
3. Put the Red Bag outside your front door in the morning on the next bag collection day.

Collection dates are also listed on the bag tag. And don’t worry, FFN will send reminders. Your Red Bag will be picked up from your house, the food sorted at a local school and delivered directly to the school food pantry at FHS. As an added benefit, you can get a tax deduction for the food that you donate!
With your help, even more kids can be fed. For more information on the Red Bag program click here. Visit the FFN FAQ page to find out more and to sign up to volunteer in these two very important roles:

https://www.foodforneighbors.org/about-1/frequently-asked-questions/

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact school parent liaison, Hala Shafik, [email protected], or school social worker, Kailyn Slade, [email protected], or Karen Joseph, at [email protected].

Thank you for helping us provide food to students who need that extra support!
Hunger Is Closer Than You Think! www.FoodForNeighbors.

🗓️Calendar Reminders Presidents Day Holiday, February 17

 

All schools and offices will be closed on Monday, February 17, for the Presidents Day holiday. See the complete school year calendar.

Spanish: Día de los Presidentes (Feriado)Todas las escuelas y oficinas permanecerán cerradas el Lunes, 17 de Febrero por el feriado del Día de los Presidentes. Vea el calendario completo del año escolar.

Korean: 대통령의 날 (공휴일)상기 사항  2월 19일 월요일은 대통령의 날로 모든 학교와 사무실이 휴무입니다. 전체 학년도 일정을 확인하세요.

February 12 was School Crossing Guard Appreciation Day in Virginia. Take a moment to thank your crossing guard for ensuring that students cross busy streets safely.

Saturday School Dates, closed on Feb. 15

Saturday School is held 9am-12pm in the Library. No sign up needed! Snacks provided; transportation is on your own.

Please note that there is NO Saturday School on February 15. The next dates are:

Q3 dates: Feb. 22; March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29.

Fairfax Lions Need to Know: 🤧 Protect Yourself and Your Community
from the Flu

Image Courtesy of Fairfax County Health Dept.

Fairfax County is experiencing very high levels of influenza (flu) illness. The Fairfax County Health Department reports that visits to emergency departments and urgent care centers for flu-like illness have increased, especially among children, and multiple flu outbreaks have occurred in our community and school settings. Read a letter from the health department. 

The health department suggests taking the following steps to reduce the spread of flu and other germs:    

• Cover coughs and sneezes. If you must be around others while ill, wearing a mask can help reduce spread.
• Wash hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available (with supervision for younger children).
• Clean frequently touched surfaces.

According to the health department, to help prevent or reduce the spread of illness it is important for individuals who are sick to stay home and away from others until symptoms improve and until they have been free of fever for at least 24 hours. Visit this Attendance webpage for guidance on when your child should go to school.

SEL Screener

Learn More About How Your Child Feels at School

The Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener will be administered to students in grades 3-12 in March. Students use the SEL Screener twice a year to share their perspectives on how well their school and community help them develop the skills they need to succeed. The screener works by asking questions or presenting statements that students can think about and respond to. This gives students a way to share how well their school community makes them feel valued, included, and supported.

After each screening, results are available in the Documents tab of SIS ParentVUE and mailed to families who do not have a ParentVUE account. For more information, including SEL Screener questions and opt-out information, please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage. 

Student Fasting Meal Kits

Student Fasting Meal Kits for February 28 - March 28Thanks to a new program from the Virginia Department of Education, students who are fasting during the school day between February 28 and March 28 can now take school meal kits home at the end of the day.Families will need to fill out a weekly Fasting Meals Request Form for their child or children to receive school meal kits. A separate form must be filled out for each week and each student.To receive meal kits for Friday, February 28, and the week of March 3, please submit the first request form by Monday, February 24. Visit the FNS webpage for more information, including weekly request forms and deadlines.

Black History Month Celebration - Date Change!

FCPS’ Chief Equity Office invites the community to an Inaugural Black History Month Kickoff Celebration on Wednesday, February 19, 5:30-7:30pm, at Carter G. Woodson High School.   

The event begins with a light reception followed by a formal program, From the Threads of Our Past to the Fabric of Our Future. The program will honor the enduring contributions of Black history and culture while envisioning a future rooted in equity and excellence. It will include inspiring performances, personal stories, reflections, and opportunities to connect and celebrate. The event is open to the entire community. 

For more information, contact Nina Thomas, senior manager for Professional Learning and Cultural Responsiveness.

Fairfax Lions Nice to Know:  Fairfax Academy Dance Benefit

 

The Fairfax Academy Dancers are thrilled to announce their upcoming dance benefit concert, Move to Mend, taking place on February 21st at 7:00 PM in the Fairfax High School Auditorium. This special event will showcase talented students from the Academy Dance program, along with alumni and various performers from the community.

Now in its 7th year, this benefit dance concert is proudly presented by the Fairfax Academy for Communications and the Arts. This year's event will benefit the charity Hope to Heal, supporting those in need who are fighting various eating disorders.

Admission is free, and donations will be accepted to support this important cause.

“We are excited to harness the power of dance to raise awareness about eating disorders, which are so prevalent within the entertainment community. Our goal is to promote inclusivity in dance, especially regarding body types, and to raise funds for Project Heal, which provides crucial resources and treatment for individuals in need. We align with Project Heal’s mission to overcome systemic, healthcare, and financial barriers to healing from eating disorders,” said Meredith Barnes, the dance director at the Fairfax Academy.

The Fairfax Academy Dancers will be joined by an array of talented community groups, including Greater Washington Chinese Dance, Center Stage, DanceWorks at Mason, Ballet Embody, 1 PICK, Ash & Elm Dance Company, Helping Hearts Through the Arts, Rhythm and Arts Center, and the West Potomac Academy Dance program.

Student Services Information

Academic Advising Continues!

FHS Academic Advising School Information
Rising 10th Grade Students (Class of 2028) - Feb. 13 to Mar. 3
No course request changes between March 24 and May 9
June 6, 2025 – Last day to make changes to course request

FCPS Summer 2025 Online Campus Courses OPEN NOW!

Registration for the Summer 2025 Online Campus courses starts Friday, February 14, 2025, and ends Friday, June 6, 2025. Courses are open to middle and high school students who meet prerequisites.

Paperless Report Cards

We’re excited to offer you a more convenient option for receiving your child’s report cards: Go Paperless!

By choosing to go paperless, you'll be able to:

• Access report cards directly in ParentVUE with just a few clicks.
• Reduce wait time in seeing your child’s report card.

Here's how you can opt-in:

1. Log into ParentVUE, click on "My Account," and select “Go Paperless.”
2. All parents/guardians living with the student at the same address must have an active SIS ParentVUE account to opt-in.
3. Once selected, the “Go Paperless” option will apply to all associated students, no matter their grade level.
4. If you’ve already opted for paperless for your secondary students, it will automatically apply to any younger siblings at the elementary level too!

U.S. Service Academy & ROTC Night, Feb. 26

 

9-11th Grade Parents & Students

Join Fairfax, Madison, Oakton, Marshall and Woodson High Schools for this informative evening…

U.S. Service Academy/ROTC Night

Wednesday, February 26, 2025 @ 7:00 pm

@ Fairfax High School - Cafeteria

Address: 3501 Lion Run, Fairfax, VA 22030

Representatives from the following academies and ROTC Programs are scheduled to attend:

• US Air Force
• US Army (West Point)
• US Navy & Marine Corps
• US Merchant Marine
• US Coast Guard

A representative from Congressman Gerry Connolly’s office will also be there to talk about the nomination process. 

The format of the program will be brief (3-5 minute) introductions from each Academy and ROTC Representative, followed by break out tables for students and parents/guardians to ask individual questions. 

No registration required.  For more information, contact Maureen Kim, FHS College & Career Specialist at [email protected], or 703-219-2204.

Snow Date:  March 6, 2025 @ 7 pm

🏌️‍♂️Golf Tournament Registration Now Open!

 

Registration is NOW OPEN for the 2025 FHS Athletic Boosters Golf Tournament! ⛳ Join us on Monday, May 19, at the Country Club of Fairfax for a day of golf, fun, and community—all while raising funds for ALL Fairfax High School athletic teams!

Last year’s event SOLD OUT, so don’t wait! Register early to secure your spot! 🔗 Sign up today at www.fairfaxhighathleticboosters.com

#FHSBoosters #GolfTournament #SupportFairfaxAthletics #FairfaxLions #AthleticsFundraiser

District News - In Case You Missed it

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• Flu Prevention
• Students Spread Joy
• Investing in our Classrooms

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today

Quick Links

• Fairfax HS Academy
• Educate Fairfax 
• FCPS Family Academy
• Family Resource Center
• FCPS CARES
• FCPS News
• Job Openings
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• SIS ParentVUE
• Standard School Year Calendar

District News - In Case You Missed It throughout the year:

• Visit the Fairfax High School Website
• Visit the Fairfax PTSA Website
• Sign up for News You Choose messages or update your account

Fairfax HS PTSA Table of Contents:

• Donations Needed for ANG Silent Auction
• Meeting Reminders
• Join the PTSA! 

Donations needed for Online ANG Silent Auction

All Night Grad is holding our annual silent auction and virtual 50/50 raffle this spring and is looking for donations! These can be products, themed baskets, sports tickets, vacations, or business services. A Christmas gift you’re not sure you’ll use? A gift card to a restaurant you don’t frequent? Donate it to support the Class of ‘25! If you or your business have items or services to donate or are willing to solicit items from local businesses, please contact us at [email protected]. 

Donating businesses/families can be acknowledged on the silent auction site- including business information like website URL, photos, etc. Stay tuned for the auction link to bid on all of these wonderful items!

PTSA & ANG Meetings on February 18

The next PTSA meeting is Tuesday, Feb. 18th at 7:00pm in the Library. Immediately following, is the ANG (All Night Grad) meeting at 8pm.

Please join us! 

It's Never Too Late to JOIN PTSA

JOIN the PTSA to support our FHS teachers, students and community! Your member dues and donations work to fund ALL of our activities and programs, help keep you engaged and informed about what is happening in our school community, and provide opportunities to get involved and have fun with other families. Join us!  

Do you want to celebrate a Fairfax employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way? Or goes beyond what is expected? If so, then click here to share with everyone.

3501 Lion Run Fairfax, VA 22030  | Main Office: 703-219-2200

Attendance: 703-219-2211| Web

 

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

Table of Contents:

• PTSA Announcement
• Donations Needed for ANG Silent Auction
• Join or Donate Today! 
• No Fuss Fundraiser
• Upcoming Events

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

📝 Message from the Board

We hope this message finds you well! We would like to extend an invitation to our next PTSA (Parent-Teacher-Student Association) Meeting, which will be held on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, from 7:00 to 8:00pm. This meeting will be a great opportunity to stay updated on important school events, share feedback, and connect with other members of the Fairfax High School community.

Immediately following the PTSA meeting, we will have the ANG Meeting. All Night Grad provides a drug and alcohol free event the night of graduation for FHS students to celebrate their accomplishments in a fun and safe way! Since ANG was first held more than 35 years ago, no senior has been involved in an alcohol related accident on graduation night. Class of ‘25 parents, please join us in planning and promoting this exciting and important event!

We encourage all parents, students, and staff members to attend these meetings, as your participation and input are invaluable in shaping the future of our school community.

Meeting Details:

• PTSA Meeting: 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
• ANG Meeting: 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Date: Tuesday, February 18, 2025
• Location: Fairfax High School Library 

We look forward to seeing you there and appreciate your ongoing support!

Donations Needed for Online ANG Silent Auction

All Night Grad is holding our annual silent auction and virtual 50/50 raffle this spring and is looking for donations! These can be products, themed baskets, sports tickets, vacations, or business services. A Christmas gift you’re not sure you’ll use? A gift card to a restaurant you don’t frequent? Donate it to support the Class of ‘25! If you or your business have items or services to donate or are willing to solicit items from local businesses, please contact us at [email protected]. 

Donating businesses/families can be acknowledged on the silent auction site- including business information like website URL, photos, etc. Stay tuned for the auction link to bid on all of these wonderful items!

✔️Never Too Late to JOIN the PTSA 

Your member dues and donations work to fund ALL of our activities and programs, help keep you engaged and informed about what is happening in OUR school community, and provide opportunities to get involved if your time permits. 

JOIN the PTSA to support our FHS teachers, students and community! Your member dues and donations work to fund all of our activities and programs, help keep you engaged and informed about what is happening in our school community and provide opportunities to get involved if your time permits.  

Parent/Adult: $20; Teacher/Staff: $12; FHS Student: $8. 

No-Fuss Fundraiser - Please Donate!

Support our FHS Students and Teachers with your generous donations! Our No-Fuss Fundraiser has a goal of $2200 to fully fund the  proposed 24-25 PTSA budget. The Parent, Teacher, Student Association supports FHS students and teachers through financing events and supporting wellness, diversity, and volunteerism. The PTSA rewards academic achievement, offers student scholarships, funds classroom grants, puts on teacher appreciation events, and supports the FHS Food Bank.

We rely entirely on membership dues and donations to fund the PTSA budget, and as a 501(c)3, your donation is tax-deductible. For details on how the funds are spent, see the proposed budget HERE. 

February 17: Washington's Birthday and President's Day Holiday; No School

February 18: PTSA Meeting, 7pm, ANG Meeting, 8pm, FHS Library

February 25: Band Pre-Assessment Concert, 7pm, Auditorium

February 26: Parents for Safe Teen Driving, 6pm, Auditorium

February 26: U.S. Service Academy/ROTC Night for 8th-11th grades, 7pm in the Commons

February 27: Orchestra Pre-Assessment Concert, 7pm, Auditorium

3501 Lion Run Fairfax, VA 22030  | Main Office: 703-219-2200

Attendance: 703-219-2211| Web

 

Upcoming Events

February 7, 8: Fairfax Academy Presents: Once Upon a One More Time,  FHS Auditorium, 7:00pm; February 8: 2pm matinee

February 17: Washington's Birthday and President's Day Holiday; No School

February 21: Dance Benefit Concert, 7pm, FHS Auditorium

February 26: New Date: Parents for Safe Teen Driving, 6pm

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

 

February 7, 2025

 

Happy Friday Fairfax Families, 

 

This week began with a SUPER SCIENCE SATURDAY recognizing over 300 projects and 500 student participants. It was truly remarkable. I learned so many life hacks from our students, but these were a few of my favorites - my plants may not be thriving based upon my Apple playlist choices; I am definitely using the wrong detergent; inspecting solar panels and renewable energy; there may be a bit of fraud in electrolyte advertising; and, I need a lot of mentos and cola to make my skateboard go faster! This type of project-based learning resulted in so much student pride and a direct application of their classroom learning. CONGRATULATIONS! 

You do not want to miss the MTAS production of Once Upon a One More Time. You have three more chances to see this showstopper that highlights empowerment, inspiration, and Britney Spears.  

This week was National Counselor's Week, and we are so fortunate to have a dynamic counseling team invested in our students and our community.  We thank you for all the support and guidance you give. 

We kicked off Black History Month with vibrant displays, daily trivia, and highlighting student projects. This is our second year of offering AP African American History and In this course, students study the vital contributions and experiences of African Americans and members of Black communities within the broader context of the African diaspora.

CTE Month kicked off here at FHS with our well attended Fairfax Academy Open House. We are fortunate to have FHS programs and Fairfax Academy programs that provide the opportunity for career and industry certification. We look forward to highlighting these career pathways, our industry staff, and many student projects this month. 

Next week we will celebrate Random Acts of Kindness Month, and we are delighted to have daily events planned that focus on empathy, compassion, and care. Ask your students which word they choose to spread kindness with!

Have PAWSome weekend! 

  Included in this issue:

 

Student Spotlight

• FHS Senior performs in Round House Theatre Production

School Program Spotlight

• Forensics Speech & Debate

Staff Spotlight

• We Love Our Counselors! 

Calendar Reminders

• CTE Month
• Love the Bus Month
• Virginia School Board Association Month
• Saturday School Dates

Fairfax Lions Need to Know:

• Make Sure Immunizations are Up-to-Date! 
• Proposed Budget Presented to School Board
• Black History Month Celebration - New Date!

Fairfax Lions Nice to Know:

• Student Voices at Family Summit
• Fairfax Academy Presents: Once Upon A One More Time
• Sophomore Parents - Virtual Meeting Presentation info
• Nominations Open for First-Class Awards
• District News - In Case You Missed It
• Quick Links

Fairfax HS PTSA

• Donations Needed for ANG Silent Auction
• Meeting Reminders
• Join the PTSA!

Student Spotlight FHS Senior in Round House Theatre Production

 

FHS Senior Kat Pascual is making her professional debut in Round House Theatre's production of “What the Constitution Means to Me." It runs through Feb 16. FHS Theatre Director and Instructor, Christ Whitney, was able to take his students to go see the show and support Kat. You can read about it in the Fairfax County Times, or see their interview on the Fox5DC Morning Show. Way to go, Kat!!

School Program Spotlight Forensics Speech & Debate

FHS Senior, Vy Tran, one of our speech team captains, was shadowed at last weekend's tournament by Mr. Moon from the School Board. He got to watch one round of competition and see her original oratory (for which she won 2nd place overall!). He was very impressed! Well done, Vy!

Staff Spotlight Counselor Appreciation Week

 

February 3-7 is National School Counseling Week, and highlights the tremendous impact our FAIRFAX counselors have in helping students achieve academic success and planning for a career.School counselors work with students in a variety of different capacities, whether it is through classroom lessons, group sessions, or individual counseling. Learn more about the role of school counselors in FCPS.

🗓️Calendar Reminders Career Technical Education (CTE) Month

 

February Is Career and Technical Education Month

By enrolling in a Career and Technical Education (CTE) course or program, students learn the technical applications of many occupations while preparing for higher education or entry-level employment. A core program of CTE courses is offered in every middle and high school including Business and Information Technology, Family and Consumer Sciences, Health and Medical Sciences, Marketing, Technology and Engineering Education, and Trade and Industrial Education. Since this is an elective, course offerings may vary by school. Learn more on the FCPS CTE webpage. 

CTE also offers summer programs for students to explore their programs. Enroll now!

🚌 Love the Bus Month

 

February is Love the Bus Month, which is meant to highlight the iconic yellow school bus and its drivers, and the vital role they play in our education system. The yellow school bus is more than just a mode of transportation, it is a symbol of community, safety and opportunity. 🚌

🍎 Virginia School Board Appreciation Month

Thank you to the Fairfax County School Board for all they do throughout the year. Want to contact your school board representatives to share your appreciation? Visit their website to find your school board member and contact them. 

Saturday School Dates

Saturday School is held 9am-12pm in the Library. No sign up needed! Snacks provided; transportation is on your own.

Q3 dates: Feb. 1, 8, 22, and

March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29. 

Fairfax Lions Need to Know: Make Sure Your Children Are Up-to-Date on Immunizations

 

Please make sure your child has all of their necessary immunizations. Remember, all students are required to be immunized against certain diseases to attend school in Virginia. This is an important part of keeping children healthy!

Starting Monday, May 19, students who have not provided proof of immunization may not be allowed to attend school. You can check your child’s immunization status and submit updated immunization information by accessing SIS ParentVUE. 

Please check with your healthcare provider to make sure your child is up to date on required immunizations for the 2024-25 school year. If your child needs an immunization, make an appointment with your healthcare provider, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or view other Immunization Resources. Be wise and immunize!

Proposed Budget Presented to School Board

 

FCPS Proposed Budget Progress

The Fairfax County School Board discussed the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Proposed Budget at their work session on February 4. They discussed details regarding student enrollment and investments in students requiring additional support, market comparison data for surrounding school divisions, and an update on progress toward achieving the Baldrige Award for Performance Excellence. Baldrige is a framework used to assess and improve organizational performance across various sectors, including education. 

The School Board also held a public hearing on the FY 2026 Proposed Budget on Tuesday, February 4, where they invited the community to share their feedback on the budget.

On Tuesday, February 18, the Fairfax County executive will present the county’s Advertised Budget, and the Fairfax County School Board will hold a work session on the FCPS FY 2026 Proposed Budget. View FCPS’ Budget Development Calendar.

Breaking Down the Budget

More than 85% of the budget is dedicated to instruction and reflects the needs of our community’s young people in response to the changing world around us. Budget priorities include providing competitive compensation for all employees, including a 7% salary increase for all staff. The majority of the budget increase is dedicated to that proposed 7% pay increase.  

Our families want their children in high-quality schools with the best teachers who provide rigorous academic experiences. We must provide competitive compensation to attract and retain our outstanding educators, administrators, and other school-based and operational staff dedicated to the success of our students. 

The proposed 7% salary increase would likely move FCPS to the highest starting salary for teachers with a master's degree among our neighboring counties and greatly improve our recruitment efforts amidst an ongoing teacher shortage. Visit the Budget webpage for more information. 

Black History Month Celebration - Date Change!

FCPS’ Chief Equity Office invites the community to an Inaugural Black History Month Kickoff Celebration on Wednesday, February 19, 5:30-7:30pm, at Carter G. Woodson High School.   

The event begins with a light reception followed by a formal program, From the Threads of Our Past to the Fabric of Our Future. The program will honor the enduring contributions of Black history and culture while envisioning a future rooted in equity and excellence. It will include inspiring performances, personal stories, reflections, and opportunities to connect and celebrate. The event is open to the entire community. 

For more information, contact Nina Thomas, senior manager for Professional Learning and Cultural Responsiveness.

Fairfax Lions Nice to Know:  Student Voices at Family Summit

 

The 2025 FCPS Family Summit will take place on Saturday, March 15, at South Lakes High School. Visit the Family Summit webpage for more information. 

At the event, FCPS students are invited to showcase projects and advocacy efforts around inclusivity in schools. This is a great resume-building opportunity, and students can earn service hours as well. Students may share their work in a share-fair environment using posters, essays, videos, songs, or art. They will interact with attendees through conversations about their work, ideas, and efforts to foster inclusivity in school communities. 

Students must use this Google Form to participate by Monday, February 17. A list of possible projects is also on the form. More information will be provided after the student’s submission is received. Please contact Manuel Gomez Portillo with any questions. 

✨ Centering student voice is part of FCPS’ Strategic Plan Goal 2: Safe, Supported, Included, and Empowered. 

Fairfax Academy's Once Upon A One More Time - Only 3 Performances Left! 

 

Powered by the chart-topping hits of the undisputed Princess of Pop, Once Upon a One More Time turns our favorite fairytales upside down with a clever twist! When a fairy godmother goes rogue and plops copies of The Feminine Mystique in the laps of classic heroines, the damsels go on a quest to rewrite their stories and redefine “happily ever after.” Once Upon a One More Time weaves 23 of Britney Spears’ smash singles into a fun and brilliant book by Jon Hartmere, culminating in a show with non-stop appeal!

Please Note: Some material may not be suitable for all ages.

All performances held at Fairfax High School Auditorium:

Only 3 performances left!!

• February 7 & 8 @ 7:00pm
• February 8 @ 2:00pm

Tickets are on sale NOW! https://www.etix.com/ticket/v/15651/ 

Sophomore Parent Meeting Presentation

The recording and presentation from the Sophomore parent meeting can be found on the school website.

Questions, contact Asst. Principal Troy Ketch at [email protected].

🏅Nominations Open for First-Class Awards

Advisory Committee for Students With Disabilities Seeks Nominations for First-Class Awards

First-Class Awards are presented each year to individuals who support, design, and/or implement inclusion activities that result in positive outcomes for students. The Advisory Committee for Students with Disabilities (ACSD) is seeking nominations for the 2025 First-Class Awards. This is a great opportunity for the community to recognize and celebrate the inclusion efforts of educators, administrators, and students who demonstrate the inclusion of students with disabilities in all facets of education. 

Nominees should model excellence in their role relative to special education, have a positive impact that benefits disabled and non-disabled students alike, and be committed to creating an inclusive environment and mindset.

Nominate an administrator, staff member, student, or community partner who has made an exceptional contribution to inclusive practices in Fairfax County Public Schools. Nominations close Wednesday, February 19.

District News - In Case You Missed it

• In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:
• Proposed Budget Progress
• Apply for Dual Immersion and Magnet Lotteries
• Black History Month Event

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.  

Quick Links

• Fairfax HS Academy
• Educate Fairfax 
• FCPS Family Academy
• Family Resource Center
• FCPS CARES
• FCPS News
• Job Openings
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• SIS ParentVUE
• Standard School Year Calendar

District News - In Case You Missed It throughout the year:

• Visit the Fairfax High School Website
• Visit the Fairfax PTSA Website
• Sign up for News You Choose messages or update your account

Fairfax HS PTSA Table of Contents:

• Donations Needed for ANG Silent Auction
• Meeting Reminders
• Join the PTSA! 

Donations needed for Online ANG Silent Auction

All Night Grad is holding our annual silent auction and virtual 50/50 raffle this spring and is looking for donations! These can be products, themed baskets, sports tickets, vacations, or business services. A Christmas gift you’re not sure you’ll use? A gift card to a restaurant you don’t frequent? Donate it to support the Class of ‘25! If you or your business have items or services to donate or are willing to solicit items from local businesses, please contact us at [email protected]. 

Donating businesses/families can be acknowledged on the silent auction site- including business information like website URL, photos, etc. Stay tuned for the auction link to bid on all of these wonderful items!

PTSA & ANG Meetings on February 18

The next PTSA meeting is Tuesday, Feb. 18th at 7:00pm in the Library. Immediately following, is the ANG (All Night Grad) meeting at 8pm.

Please join us! 

It's Never Too Late to JOIN PTSA

JOIN the PTSA to support our FHS teachers, students and community! Your member dues and donations work to fund ALL of our activities and programs, help keep you engaged and informed about what is happening in our school community, and provide opportunities to get involved and have fun with other families. Join us!  

Do you want to celebrate a Fairfax employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way? Or goes beyond what is expected? If so, then click here to share with everyone.

3501 Lion Run Fairfax, VA 22030  | Main Office: 703-219-2200

Attendance: 703-219-2211| Web

 

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

Table of Contents:

• Donations Needed for ANG Silent Auction
• Meeting Reminders
• Join or Donate Today! 
• Upcoming Events

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Donations Needed for Online ANG Silent Auction

All Night Grad is holding our annual silent auction and virtual 50/50 raffle this spring and is looking for donations! These can be products, themed baskets, sports tickets, vacations, or business services. A Christmas gift you’re not sure you’ll use? A gift card to a restaurant you don’t frequent? Donate it to support the Class of ‘25! If you or your business have items or services to donate or are willing to solicit items from local businesses, please contact us at [email protected]. 

Donating businesses/families can be acknowledged on the silent auction site- including business information like website URL, photos, etc. Stay tuned for the auction link to bid on all of these wonderful items!

Principal's Coffee, Friday, Feb. 7, 7:30am. 

Please join us for Coffee & Conversation with the Principal! The next meeting is this Friday, February 7 @ 7:30am in the Career Center. See you there!

PTSA & ANG Meetings, Feb. 18, 7pm, Library

The next PTSA meeting is Tuesday, Feb. 18th at 7:00pm in the Library. Immediately following, is the ANG (All Night Grad) meeting at 8pm.

Please join us! 

📝Never Too Late to JOIN or Donate to PTSA 

 

JOIN the PTSA to support our FHS teachers, students and community! Your member dues and donations work to fund all of our activities and programs, help keep you engaged and informed about what is happening in our school community and provide opportunities to get involved if your time permits.  

No-Fuss Fundraiser!

Support our FHS Students and Teachers with your generous donations! Our No-Fuss Fundraiser has a goal of $2200 to fully fund the  proposed 24-25 PTSA budget. The Parent, Teacher, Student Association supports FHS students and teachers through financing events and supporting wellness, diversity, and volunteerism. The PTSA rewards academic achievement, offers student scholarships, funds classroom grants, puts on teacher appreciation events, and supports the FHS Food Bank.

We rely entirely on membership dues and donations to fund the PTSA budget, and as a 501(c)3, your donation is tax-deductible. For details on how the funds are spent, see the proposed budget HERE. 

 

February 6, 7, 8: Once Upon a One More Time,  FHS Auditorium, 7:00pm; February 8: 2pm Matinee

February 7: Principal's Coffee, 7:30am

February 10: Parents for Safe Teen Driving, 6pm

February 17: Washington's Birthday and President's Day Holiday; No School

February 18: PTSA Meeting, 7pm, ANG Meeting, 8pm, FHS Library

3501 Lion Run Fairfax, VA 22030  | Main Office: 703-219-2200

Attendance: 703-219-2211| Web

 

Upcoming Events

January 31, February 1, 6, 7, 8: Fairfax Academy Presents: Once Upon a One More Time,  FHS Auditorium, 7:00pm

February 2 & 8: Once Upon a One More Time, FHS Auditorium, 2pm matinee

February 1: Science Fair, 8AM-12PM, FHS Library

February 1: Saturday School, Career Center

February 7: Principal's Coffee, 7:30am

February 10: Parents for Safe Teen Driving, 6pm

February 17: Washington's Birthday and President's Day Holiday; No School

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

 

January 31, 2025

 

Happy Friday Fairfax High School Community,

As we bid farewell to Semester 1, we eagerly anticipate the opportunities and experiences that Semester 2 will bring. It has been a PAWSome and exciting week at FHS, filled with achievements, performances, and student engagement.

A Standing Ovation for Our Theater Students - A round of applause for our talented FHS Theater students on their outstanding VHSL One Act performance. Your hard work and dedication to the arts continue to inspire us all.

OOPS, they did it again! The Musical Theater and Actor’s Studio (MTAS) at Fairfax Academy is set to premiere Once Upon a One More Time this weekend and next weekend. This is a performance you do not want to miss—get your tickets now and witness an unforgettable show!

Student Advising & Course Selections Student advising sessions and course selections are well underway. Families, please connect with your students and visit our online course catalog to ensure they have a well-rounded and enriching schedule for the next academic year.

Celebrating Our Seniors The celebrations continue for our seniors with Senior Basketball and Senior Hockey Nights. Let’s cheer on our Class of 2025 as they make lasting memories during their final year at FHS. 

Inquiry Ignites at the Science Fair Curiosity and innovation are at the forefront as our students prepare for the upcoming FHS Science Fair. Over the past several weeks, teams have been working diligently to hypothesize, investigate, and explore various topics. We look forward to seeing their incredible projects come to life this weekend. 

Thank you to our students, staff, and families for making Fairfax High School a vibrant and dynamic community. Let’s make Semester 2 just as fantastic as the first.  At Fairfax High School we will continue to focus on meaningful connections, enriched educational opportunities, and the transformational power of teaching and learning. 

In Partnership,

  Included in this issue:

 

Student Spotlight

• Basketball Senior Night
• Ice Hockey Seniors
• 2025 Regional Scholastic Art Winners

Calendar Reminders

• Black History Month
• Saturday School Dates
• Principal's Coffee, February 7

Fairfax Lions Need to Know:

• Proposed Budget Presented to School Board
• Office of Ombuds is for YOU! 
• SR&R and Cell Phone Policy Survey
• FHS Graduation Survey

Fairfax Lions Nice to Know:

• Fairfax Academy Presents: Once Upon A One More Time
• Sophomore Parents - Virtual Meeting Presentation info
• Nominations Open for First-Class Awards
• District News - In Case You Missed It
• Quick Links

Fairfax HS PTSA

• Save the Date for the Golf Tournament
• Join the PTSA!

Student Spotlight Basketball Senior Night! Celebrating our Hockey Seniors! 2025 Regional Scholastic Art Award Winners Gold Key Winners Advance to Nationals, and winners will be announced in March. Congratulations, Lions! 

• Kai Garcia - Unfiltered Illustration, Portfolio (Art) - Gold Key
• Keyla Juarez - Irrational, Photography - Gold Key
• Lilly Kyle - Invasion Painting - Gold Key; Empathetic Drawing & Illustration - Honorable Mention
• Akshara Mittal - Candid, Drawing & Illustration - Silver Key
• Kaida Jones - Somniphobia, Digital Art - Honorable Mention
• Hannah Vintilescu - No Longer Human, Sculpture - Gold Key; The Burden of Creation, Digital Art - Gold Key; Caged, Digital Art - Honorable Mention; Overstimulated, Mixed Media - Honorable Mention; Unnatural Born Rights Digital Art - Honorable Mention
• Rex Killian - Desolate, Digital Art - Silver Key; Lust, Photography - Silver Key
• Skylar Levy - Faux Savior, Digital Art - Silver Key; Thalassophobia, Digital Art - Silver Key
• Clara Kim - More is Never Enough Drawing & Illustration - Honorable Mention

🗓️Calendar Reminders Black History Month

 

Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing their central role in U.S. history. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. Learn more about Black History month.

Spanish: El Mes de la Historia AfroamericanaEl Mes de la Historia Afroestadounidense es una celebración anual de los logros de los Afroestadounidenses y un tiempo para reconocer su papel central en la historia de los Estados Unidos. Aprenda más sobre los meses de herencia, celebraciones, y tradiciones celebradas en FCPS.Aprenda más sobre el mes de la Historia Afroestadounidense.

Korean: 흑인 역사의 달흑인 역사의 달은 매년 아프리카계 미국인의 업적을 축하하고 미국 역사속에서 이들의 업적과 역사를 기념하는 달입니다. FCPS에서 기념하는 유산의달, 기념행사, 전통에 대해 자세히 알아보세요. 흑인 역사의 달에 대해 자세히 알아보기. 

City of Fairfax Celebrates Black History Month

 

While we celebrate black achievement and history 365 days a year, the month of February is nationally recognized as Black History Month. We invite everyone to join the City of Fairfax in the month of February to honor, learn, and explore our nation's black history.

Jan 15-Feb 28: Martin Luther King, Jr. Statue on display at City Hall

Feb 1-28: Frederick Douglass Exhibit: Fairfax Museum & Visitor's Center

See the full list of FREE events here: Black History Events Calendar. 

Saturday School, Feb. 1 in the Career Center

Due to the Science Fair, the Feb. 1st Saturday School will be held in the Career Center (rm. L106).

Saturday School is held 9am-12pm. No sign up needed! Snacks provided; transportation is on your own.

Q3 dates: Feb. 1, 8, 22, and March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29. 

Next Principal's Coffee, Feb. 7 @ 7:30am

Please join us for Coffee & Conversation with the Principal! 

The next Principal's Coffee will be held on Friday, February 7, from 7:30-8:30am in the Career Center (room L106). See you there! 

Fairfax Lions Need to Know: Proposed Budget Presented to School Board

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid presented the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Proposed Budget at the School Board meeting on Thursday, January 23. Watch a video of the presentation. 

As Dr. Reid noted in her January 24 letter to families, “The budget is fiscally responsible and invests in excellence — not just for FCPS, but for all of us in Fairfax County who want a strong community with successful young people, dedicated educators and support staff, and a thriving economy.” 

The proposed budget reflects the needs of and FCPS’ commitments to Fairfax County students, families, and community members. It focuses on competitive compensation, including a 7.0% salary increase for all staff to recruit and retain our outstanding educators, administrators, and other school-based and operational staff dedicated to the success of our students; investing in students who require additional support; and continuing multiyear initiatives such as inclusive preschool and safety and security updates.

Learn more on the Budget webpage. 

Did you Know? Office of the Ombuds is for YOU

The FCPS Office of the Ombuds engages with FCPS employees, families, and students to offer resources and improve the experience of each and every member of the FCPS community. They work as an independent confidential resource to help get answers to questions, resolve concerns, and hear complaints regarding FCPS matters.  

Ombuds office staff members are available to help resolve disagreements between parents/caregivers and schools. They do not change or make decisions, policies, or regulations; take sides; or provide legal advice.

Anyone with concerns, questions, or complaints to share with the Office of the Ombuds may call 571-423-4014, email [email protected], or visit their webpage, where you may Submit a Question.

SR&R and Cell Phone Policy Survey

All FCPS families and middle and high school students have received an invitation to participate in a survey about FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R), cell phone policy, and cell phone storage options. The survey will be available through Monday, February 3. Please take a few moments to share your feedback and help FCPS make informed, inclusive decisions for all of our schools!

Spanish: Se Viene Pronto la Encuesta de SR&R y Política de Celulares

Todas las familias de FCPS y estudiantes de escuelas intermedias y secundarias recibirán una invitación por correo electrónico el martes, 21 de enero, para participar en una encuesta acerca de los Derechos y Responsabilidades del Estudiante (SR&R) de FCPS, Política de Teléfonos Celulares, y opciones de almacenamiento de teléfonos celulares. La encuesta estará disponible del 21 de enero al 3 de febrero. Por favor tómese unos minutos para compartir su opinión y ayudar a FCPS a tomar decisiones informadas e inclusivas para todas nuestras escuelas.

FHS Graduation Survey Coming Next Week

Next week, an input survey will be sent out to families in grades 9-11, regarding future graduations locations. We will be surveying students, staff, and our community. 

Fairfax Lions Nice to Know:  Fairfax Academy Presents: Once Upon A One More Time (High School Version)

 

Powered by the chart-topping hits of the undisputed Princess of Pop, Once Upon a One More Time turns our favorite fairytales upside down with a clever twist! When a fairy godmother goes rogue and plops copies of The Feminine Mystique in the laps of classic heroines, the damsels go on a quest to rewrite their stories and redefine “happily ever after.” Once Upon a One More Time weaves 23 of Britney Spears’ smash singles into a fun and brilliant book by Jon Hartmere, culminating in a show with non-stop appeal!

Please Note: Some material may not be suitable for all ages.

All performances held at Fairfax High School Auditorium:

• January 31, February 1, 6, 7 @ 7:00pm
• February 2 @ 2:00pm
• February 8 @ 2:00pm & 7:00pm

Tickets are on sale NOW! https://www.etix.com/ticket/v/15651/ 

Sophomore Parent Meeting Presentation

The recording and presentation from the Sophomore parent meeting can be found on the school website.

Questions, contact Asst. Principal Troy Ketch at [email protected].

🏅Nominations Open for First-Class Awards

Advisory Committee for Students With Disabilities Seeks Nominations for First-Class Awards

First-Class Awards are presented each year to individuals who support, design, and/or implement inclusion activities that result in positive outcomes for students. The Advisory Committee for Students with Disabilities (ACSD) is seeking nominations for the 2025 First-Class Awards. This is a great opportunity for the community to recognize and celebrate the inclusion efforts of educators, administrators, and students who demonstrate the inclusion of students with disabilities in all facets of education. 

Nominees should model excellence in their role relative to special education, have a positive impact that benefits disabled and non-disabled students alike, and be committed to creating an inclusive environment and mindset.

Nominate an administrator, staff member, student, or community partner who has made an exceptional contribution to inclusive practices in Fairfax County Public Schools. Nominations close Wednesday, February 19.

District News - In Case You Missed it

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• FY 2026 Proposed Budget
• Student-Driven Lunch Menus
• Inclusion Awards Nominations

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today. 

Quick Links

• Fairfax HS Academy
• Educate Fairfax 
• FCPS Family Academy
• Family Resource Center
• FCPS CARES
• FCPS News
• Job Openings
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• SIS ParentVUE
• Standard School Year Calendar

District News - In Case You Missed It throughout the year:

• Visit the Fairfax High School Website
• Visit the Fairfax PTSA Website
• Sign up for News You Choose messages or update your account

Fairfax HS PTSA Table of Contents:

• Save the Date: Golf Tournament on May 19 
• Join the PTSA! 

Save the Date: Golf Tournament on May 19

 

Save the Date! The 12th Annual Golf Tournament will be held on Monday, May 19, 2025 at the Country Club of Fairfax. Sponsored by the Athletic Boosters, this is one our biggest Fundraisers of the Year! Keep an eye out for Registration announcements, coming soon! 

Don't forget to check out our new FHS Athletic Boosters Website!

It's Never Too Late to JOIN PTSA

JOIN the PTSA to support our FHS teachers, students and community! Your member dues and donations work to fund ALL of our activities and programs, help keep you engaged and informed about what is happening in our school community, and provide opportunities to get involved and have fun with other families. Join us!  

Do you want to celebrate a Fairfax employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way? Or goes beyond what is expected? If so, then click here to share with everyone.

3501 Lion Run Fairfax, VA 22030  | Main Office: 703-219-2200

Attendance: 703-219-2211| Web

 

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

Table of Contents:

• Science Fair Donations Needed
• ANG Silent Auction
• Sophomore Parent Virtual Meeting
• City of Fairfax Celebrates Black History Month
• Join or Donate Today! 
• Upcoming Events

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Science Fair Donations Needed

Hey, Fairfax! Breakfast donations are needed to nourish our teachers and volunteer judges! Please sign up to donate food or drinks for the FHS Science Fair on February 1st:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050F49ACAB2E5-54600697-science

Donations may be dropped off in the front office by Friday afternoon, January 31, clearly labeled “Science Fair Breakfast.”

If you prefer to make a monetary donation toward the purchase of these fresh items instead please click here: https://fairfaxhs.givebacks.com/store/items/.

Thanks for supporting our teachers and the Science Fair!

Donations Needed for Online ANG Silent Auction

All Night Grad is holding our annual silent auction and virtual 50/50 raffle this spring and is looking for donations! These can be products, themed baskets, sports tickets, vacations, or business services. A Christmas gift you’re not sure you’ll use? A gift card to a restaurant you don’t frequent? Donate it to support the Class of ‘25! If you or your business have items or services to donate or are willing to solicit items from local businesses, please contact us at [email protected]. 

Donating businesses/families can be acknowledged on the silent auction site- including business information like website URL, photos, etc. Stay tuned for the auction link to bid on all of these wonderful items!

Sophomore Parents Virtual Meeting, Jan. 29

Save the Date!

Sophomore Administrator, Troy Ketch, will host a virtual meeting from 6:30-7:30 pm on Wednesday, January 29 for sophomore parents. This meeting will share information regarding Spring events, attendance, academics, SR&R, academic advising, school resources, and more. If you are unable to attend, a link to the slides will be shared with contact information included.

A Zoom link will be sent out directly to parents prior to the meeting.

Questions, email Mr. Ketch at [email protected].

City of Fairfax Celebrates Black History Month

 

While we celebrate black achievement and history 365 days a year, the month of February is nationally recognized as Black History Month. We invite everyone to join the City of Fairfax in the month of February to honor, learn, and explore our nation's black history:

Jan 15-Feb 28: Martin Luther King, Jr. Statue on display at City Hall

Jan 28: Proclamation & Reception, City Hall, 6pm

Feb 1-28: Frederick Douglass Exhibit: Fairfax Museum & Visitor's Center

Feb 6: the Constitution and Loving v. Virginia/Legal Panel, Sherwood Center

And many others! See the full list of FREE events here: 

Black History Events Calendar. 

📝Never Too Late to JOIN or Donate to PTSA 

 

JOIN the PTSA to support our FHS teachers, students and community! Your member dues and donations work to fund all of our activities and programs, help keep you engaged and informed about what is happening in our school community and provide opportunities to get involved if your time permits.  

No-Fuss Fundraiser!

Support our FHS Students and Teachers with your generous donations! Our No-Fuss Fundraiser has a goal of $2200 to fully fund the  proposed 24-25 PTSA budget. The Parent, Teacher, Student Association supports FHS students and teachers through financing events and supporting wellness, diversity, and volunteerism. The PTSA rewards academic achievement, offers student scholarships, funds classroom grants, puts on teacher appreciation events, and supports the FHS Food Bank.

We rely entirely on membership dues and donations to fund the PTSA budget, and as a 501(c)3, your donation is tax-deductible. For details on how the funds are spent, see the proposed budget HERE. 

 

January 28: End of 2nd Quarter; Full Day - NO early release. 

January 29: No School; Student Holiday, Teacher Workday

January 29: Sophomore Parent Virtual Meeting, 6:30pm

January 31: Opening Night: Fairfax Academy Presents: Once Upon a One More Time, 7:00pm, FHS Auditorium

February 1, 6, 7, 8: Once Upon a One More Time,  FHS Auditorium, 7:00pm

February 2 & 8: Once Upon a One More Time, FHS Auditorium, 2pm

February 1: Science Fair, 8AM-12PM, FHS Library

February 17: Washington's Birthday and President's Day Holiday; No School

3501 Lion Run Fairfax, VA 22030  | Main Office: 703-219-2200

Attendance: 703-219-2211| Web

 

Upcoming Events

January 25: Saturday School, 9am-12pm, Library

January 28: End of 2nd Quarter; Full Day - NO early release. 

January 29: No School; Student Holiday, Teacher Workday

January 29: Sophomore Parents Virtual Meeting

January 31: Opening Night: Fairfax Academy Presents: Once Upon a One More Time, 7:00pm, FHS Auditorium

February 1, 6, 7, 8: Once Upon a One More Time,  FHS Auditorium, 7:00pm

February 2 & 8: Once Upon a One More Time, FHS Auditorium, 2pm

February 1: Science Fair, 8AM-12PM, FHS Library

February 17: Washington's Birthday and President's Day Holiday; No School

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Congratulations, Dr. Aye, for being named the Region 5 Outstanding Principal!! 🦁👏💯✨🎉

 

January 24, 2025

 

Happy Friday Fairfax Families, 

We survived the frigid temperatures and are now ready to bid farewell to Semester 1. Our students took advantage of many opportunities this week to share culminating course projects, revisit re-mastery, and return to regular routines.  

Day of Service: A Huge Success

On Monday, our students and staff kicked off an inspiring Day of Service, dedicating their time to restocking our school food pantry. We are incredibly grateful for the overwhelming generosity of our community, whose donations made this initiative possible. Thank you for helping us support families in need and fostering the spirit of giving at Fairfax High School! 💙 Be on the lookout for the next red bag pick up. 

Cultural Connect: Welcoming New Friends

This week, we had the honor of hosting a group of students from the Chinese Delegation. It was a fantastic opportunity to build bridges, share traditions, and celebrate the rich diversity that makes our school and community so special. Students engaged in PE, a building tour, lunchtime fun, and made Chinese lanterns in our Chinese World Language class. Thank you to everyone who participated in making this experience meaningful and memorable! 🌍

Gratitude

I want to thank our ROARtastic FHS student leaders, our PAWSome staff, our Region Leadership team, and our City Schools team who surprised me and celebrated my recognition from Region 5. Fairfax High is truly a special place, and it brings me JOY every day to serve this community. THANK YOU!  We remain committed to connecting students, educating and empowering, and providing transformational opportunities for learners. 

In Partnership,

  Included in this issue:

 

Student Spotlight

• Senior Nights
  • Gymnastics
  • Swim & Dive
  • Track & Field

School Spotlight

• Chinese Delegation Student Visit
• Geospatial Analysis Program

Calendar Reminders

• Lunar New Year, January 29
• Second Quarter Ends, January 28
• Student Holiday/Teacher Workday, January 29
• Saturday School Dates
• Principal's Coffee, February 7, Career Center, 7:30-8:30am

Fairfax Lions Need to Know:

• Office of Ombuds Information
• Virtual Community Boundary Meetings 
• Apply to be the Student Rep to the School Board
• Opioid Awareness
• Student Services Important Dates

Fairfax Lions Nice to Know:

• Sophomore Parents - Virtual Meeting, January 29
• Fairfax Academy Presents: Once Upon A One More Time
• Science Fair Donations Needed! 
• Gap Year Fair, January 28
• College Partnership Program - Deadline is Feb. 28
• District News - In Case You Missed It
• Quick Links

Fairfax HS PTSA

• Meeting Reminders
• Join the PTSA!

Student Spotlight Gymnastics Senior Night Swim & Dive Senior Night Track & Field Senior Night Wrestling Senior Night School Spotlight Student Visitors from the Chinese Delegation

 

Earlier this week, FHS hosted a group of students from China, who were visiting several schools in FCPS. They were able to attend several of our classes including Chinese, Korean, PE, and even got lunch in the Cafeteria! Our Lions enjoyed making new friends!

Consider Taking Geospatial Analysis!

Attention Rising Juniors and Seniors!

Looking for an elective to grow your technology or mapping skills? 

Looking for a class focused on current events and visualization?

Looking for college credit and a GPA bump?

Sign up for Geospatial Analysis!

• Geospatial Analysis teaches mapping (GIS) technology though current events.  
• Students will gain real-world experience in digital mapping, satellite and aerial photo interpretation, data creation, data analysis, app publishing, and more.
• Develop critical thinking, communication, and collaboration skills – critical for college and career-readiness.
• Possible Career Paths include GIS, National Defense, Business, Crime Analysis, Utilities, Engineering, Environmental, Government, Medical, Weather, Travel, Human and Social Geography, and so much more!

Perks:

• Optional Dual-Enrollment through JMU providing 3 college credits.  Credits are transferrable to other colleges. Workload is the same for all students, DE and non-DE.
• All students, dual-enrolled or not, earn a 1.0 GPA boost! 
• Taught by a former GIS specialist and founder of FHS’ Geospatial Analysis program.

For more info, email Mr. Smolinski: [email protected], swing by room A140, or visit https://youtu.be/1AE1KsXO-mw and https://arcg.is/1Sn0We. 

🗓️Calendar Reminders 🐍 Lunar New Year, January 29

 

 새해 복 많이 받으세요! 新年快乐! Chúc mừng Năm Mới! Wishing good fortune to those in our community who celebrate Lunar New Year! For those in many East and Southeast Asian countries, including Pacific Islanders, the Lunar New Year is one of the most important holidays of the year and is all about ushering in luck and prosperity with family. 

Quarter End, too! Lunar New Year falls at quarter end on Wednesday, January 29. The day will be a teacher work day and there will be no school for students. See the complete school year calendar.

Spanish: Fin de trimestre, Año Nuevo LunarEl Año Nuevo Lunar cae al final del trimestre, el miércoles 29 de enero. Ese día será día de trabajo para los maestros pero no habrá clases para los estudiantes. Consulte el calendario completo del año escolar.

Korean:설날FCPS는 설날을 종교 및 문화 준수일로 지정했습니다. 이러한 기념일에는 특정 행사를 진행할 수 없습니다. 

올해 설날은 1월 29일 수요일 분기말에 해당합니다. 이 날은 교사의 근무일이며 학생들은 등교하지 않습니다. 전체 학년도 학사 일정을 확인하세요.

Saturday School

Saturday School will be held on January 25. 

No sign up needed! Students report to the LIBRARY from 9AM to 12PM. Snacks provided. 

The Q3 dates are:

• Feb 1, 8, 22
• March 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29

No transportation provided.

Next Principal's Coffee, Feb. 7 @ 7:30am

Please join us for Coffee & Conversation with the Principal! 

The next Principal's Coffee will be held on Friday, February 7, from 7:30-8:30am in the Career Center (room L106). See you there! 

Fairfax Lions Need to Know: Did you Know? Office of the Ombuds is for YOU

The FCPS Office of the Ombuds serves as an independent, confidential resource for students, families, community members, and employees who are seeking informal help to answer questions, resolve concerns, and voice complaints regarding FCPS matters. The Office of the Ombuds reports to the Chief Experience and Engagement Officer. 

The word Ombudsman means "representative."

WHEN to Contact Us:

• When you want help resolving an issue that affects student learning or the school/work environment.
• When you want to understand how FCPS works or where to go for assistance.

WAYS to Contact Us:

• Call: 571-423-4014
• Text: 571-496-8284
• Email: [email protected]
• Submit a Question online

Get more information here: https://www.fcps.edu/ombuds

📍Virtual Community Boundary Review Mtgs

If you have not been able to attend a Community Boundary Review meeting yet, it’s not too late! The following virtual meetings will have the same format and information available as the previous in-person meetings:

• Saturday, January 25, 9:30-11 a.m. 
• Monday, January 27, 6:30-8 p.m. 
• Tuesday, January 28, 6:30-8 p.m. 
• Monday, February 10, 6:30-8 p.m. 

Click one of the dates above to register and receive your unique Zoom link. Please note that each virtual meeting will be capped at 400 participants to help provide a meaningful experience for all. Language interpretation will be available. Learn about FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review. Sign up for the School Boundary Review newsletter for updates.

📍Actualizaciones de la Revisión Integral de Límites

Reuniones virtuales de la Comunidad para la Revisión Integral de Límites se llevarán a cabo:

• sábado, 25 de enero de 2025, 9:30-11 a.m. 

• lunes, 27 de enero de 2025, de 6:30 a 8 p.m. 

• martes, 28 de enero de 2025, de 6:30 a 8 p.m. 
• lunes, 10 de febrero de 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

La inscripción estará disponible próximamente en la página web de Revisión Integral de Límites, donde también podrá informarse sobre el proceso de revisión de límites. Inscríbase también en nuestro boletín de Revisión de Límites Escolares.

📝 Application for the 2025 Student Representative to the School Board

The School Board student representative represents the interests of Fairfax County Public Schools students. The student representative is not a member of the School Board but serves in a nonvoting, advisory capacity. Students currently in grades 9, 10, and 11 are eligible to apply. 

Watch this video to learn about the student representative experience from the current representative, Megan Sawant. 

Application Information and Deadlines

To be considered for the election, students are required to provide:

• A written component, which is due Monday, February 24.
• A 30-second candidate video statement, which is due Wednesday, March 26. Candidates will be emailed a link to record their video on Monday, March 17.

Both application components are required to be considered for the election. Read more about the election process.

Opioid Awareness

What Families Can Do to Fight Drug Misuse

FCPS is committed to raising awareness about the opioid epidemic with our educators, parents/caregivers, and students. Together, we can help ensure our students thrive.

What can families do?

• Show you disapprove of underage drinking and other drug misuse. More than 80% of young people ages 10-18 say their parents are the leading influence on their decision whether to drink. 
• Show you care about your child’s health, wellness, and success. 
• Show you are a good source of information about alcohol and other drugs. Find helpful resources on the FCPS Opioid Awareness webpage. 
• Pay attention to your child and discourage risky behaviors. 
• Build your child’s skills and strategies for avoiding drinking and drug use. Talk with your child about what they would do if faced with a decision about alcohol and drugs, such as texting a code word to a family member or practicing how they will say, “No thanks.”

Get more information on opioid awareness.

Student Services Important Dates On-Time Academy Application Deadline:
Friday, March 7, 2025

Students interested in an academy course must have a submitted application to be considered on time. Applications are completed through their School Counselor. 

Last day to change course requests for the 2025-2026 school year: Friday, June 6

Please view our Academic Advising site (https://fairfaxhs.fcps.edu/student-services/academic-advising) for all information. If you have questions, please reach out to your child's counselor.

Fairfax Lions Nice to Know:  Sophomore Parents Virtual Meeting, Jan. 29

Save the Date! Sophomore Administrator, Troy Ketch, will host a virtual meeting from 6:30-7:30 pm on Wednesday, January 29 for sophomore parents. This meeting will share information regarding Spring events, attendance, academics, SR&R, academic advising, school resources, and more. If you are unable to attend, a link to the slides will be shared with contact information included.

A Zoom link will be sent out prior to the meeting. Questions, please contact Mr. Ketch at [email protected].

Fairfax Academy Presents: Once Upon A One More Time (High School Version)

 

Powered by the chart-topping hits of the undisputed Princess of Pop, Once Upon a One More Time turns our favorite fairytales upside down with a clever twist! When a fairy godmother goes rogue and plops copies of The Feminine Mystique in the laps of classic heroines, the damsels go on a quest to rewrite their stories and redefine “happily ever after.” Once Upon a One More Time weaves 23 of Britney Spears’ smash singles into a fun and brilliant book by Jon Hartmere, culminating in a show with non-stop appeal!

Please Note: Some material may not be suitable for all ages.

All performances held at Fairfax High School Auditorium:

• January 31, February 1, 6, 7 @ 7:00pm
• February 2 @ 2:00pm
• February 8 @ 2:00pm & 7:00pm

Tickets are on sale NOW! https://www.etix.com/ticket/v/15651/ 

🌟 Science Fair Donations Needed!🌟

Hey, Fairfax! Breakfast donations are needed to nourish our teachers and volunteer judges! Please sign up to donate food or drinks for the FHS Science Fair on February 1st:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050F49ACAB2E5-54600697-science

Donations may be dropped off in the front office by Friday afternoon, January 31, clearly labeled “Science Fair Breakfast.”

If you prefer to make a monetary donation toward the purchase of these fresh items instead please click here: https://fairfaxhs.givebacks.com/store/items/.

Thanks for supporting our teachers and the Science Fair!

✈️ Gap Year Fair

Learn About Opportunities for the Year Following Graduation at the Gap Year Fair

FCPS School Counseling Services and Go Overseas will co-host the annual FCPS Gap Year Fair on Tuesday, January 28, 6-8:30 p.m., at Marshall High School. 

This event is for high school students and their families who are interested in learning about opportunities for the year following high school graduation. Students should register at USA Gap Year Fairs.  

College Partnership Program

Do you have a student between grades 8 - 11, who wants to go to college? If so, they should consider applying to the College Partnership Program (CPP), which offers support from exploration to application! The deadline to apply is February 28, 2025.

CPP offers programming to help prepare students and families from 9th grade all the way through applying to and enrolling in college, including:

• Academic counseling
• College visits
• Help with completing college and scholarship applications
• Monthly meetings
• A summer overnight experience on a college campus  
• News and information related to colleges and careers via Schoology

All students are eligible and encouraged to apply to this program, and are expected to meet the following requirements:

• Maintain a GPA of 2.5 or higher in core classes
• Attend monthly CPP meetings 
• Are willing to pursue advanced coursework
• Demonstrate leadership in school or community activities

The goal of the program is to systematically mitigate the impact of barriers to access and opportunity, and support students who are from populations that are historically underrepresented on college campuses. This includes students who are the first in their family to attend college in the U.S., Multilingual learners, students who are economically disadvantaged, and students with disabilities. 

Application Link: https://tinyurl.com/u2e3hme3 

The application is only open to students using their FCPS G-Suite account. All applications will be submitted ONLINE ONLY.

If you have questions, please reach out to Nikki Bender, [email protected], Dara Markenson, [email protected], or Bertha Mensah,  [email protected]. 

District News - In Case You Missed it

• In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:
• SOL Score Reports
• Upcoming Budget Presentation
• Science Fair Judges Needed

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today. 

Quick Links

• Fairfax HS Academy
• Educate Fairfax 
• FCPS Family Academy
• Family Resource Center
• FCPS CARES
• FCPS News
• Job Openings
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• SIS ParentVUE
• Standard School Year Calendar

District News - In Case You Missed It throughout the year:

• Visit the Fairfax High School Website
• Visit the Fairfax PTSA Website
• Sign up for News You Choose messages or update your account

Fairfax HS PTSA Table of Contents:

• Save the Date: Golf Tournament on May 19 
• Fairfax Academy Presents: Once Upon A One More Time
• Join the PTSA! 

Save the Date: Golf Tournament on May 19

 

Save the Date! The 12th Annual Golf Tournament will be held on Monday, May 19, 2025 at the Country Club of Fairfax. Sponsored by the Athletic Boosters, this is one our biggest Fundraisers of the Year! Keep an eye out for Registration announcements, coming soon! 

Don't forget to check out our new FHS Athletic Boosters Website!

It's Never Too Late to JOIN PTSA

JOIN the PTSA to support our FHS teachers, students and community! Your member dues and donations work to fund ALL of our activities and programs, help keep you engaged and informed about what is happening in our school community, and provide opportunities to get involved and have fun with other families. Join us!  

Do you want to celebrate a Fairfax employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way? Or goes beyond what is expected? If so, then click here to share with everyone.

3501 Lion Run Fairfax, VA 22030  | Main Office: 703-219-2200

Attendance: 703-219-2211| Web

 

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

Table of Contents:

• January PTSA Meeting Still On Tonight! ANG Meeting is Canceled!
• ANG Announcement
• Join or Donate Today! 
• Upcoming Events

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

PTSA Meeting Still ON - ANG Meeting Canceled!

The PTSA meeting is ON for tonight, January 21, 2025, at 7:00pm in the Library.

The ANG meeting has been Canceled. 

🎓 ANG Announcement

Fairfax All Night Graduation Celebration - June 5, 2025

The January ANG meeting is cancelled, but please join us next month 2/18 at 8pm in the school library. See below for other ways to get involved and support our grads!

Tickets for the All Night Grad Party will go on sale next month!

We are less than two months away from the launch of our ticket sales for the All Night Graduation Party!  We are excited about the plans so far and hope you will join us in making it the best it can be for our graduates. If we earn money now, we can add more activities and entertainment to the event! We have a number of fundraising activities coming up where we will need parent volunteers and support, including:

• Community Fundraising Campaign
• Online Silent Auction
• Plastic Modelers Show Concessions

We will also be looking for parent volunteers organize part of the event (food, entertainment) and to help at the party on graduation night, June 5. Please come out to our next Committee Meeting in February or email us at: [email protected] to find out more about how you can help!

 

Donations Needed for Online ANG Silent Auction

All Night Grad is holding our annual silent auction and virtual 50/50 raffle this spring and is looking for donations! These can be products, themed baskets, sports tickets, vacations, or business services. A Christmas gift you’re not sure you’ll use? A gift card to a restaurant you don’t frequent? Donate it to support the Class of ‘25! If you or your business have items or services to donate or are willing to solicit items from local businesses, please contact us at [email protected]. 

Donating businesses/families can be acknowledged on the silent auction site- including business information like website URL, photos, etc. Stay tuned for the auction link to bid on all of these wonderful items!

📝Never Too Late to JOIN or Donate to PTSA 

 

JOIN the PTSA to support our FHS teachers, students and community! Your member dues and donations work to fund all of our activities and programs, help keep you engaged and informed about what is happening in our school community and provide opportunities to get involved if your time permits.  

No-Fuss Fundraiser!

Support our FHS Students and Teachers with your generous donations! Our No-Fuss Fundraiser has a goal of $2200 to fully fund the  proposed 24-25 PTSA budget. The Parent, Teacher, Student Association supports FHS students and teachers through financing events and supporting wellness, diversity, and volunteerism. The PTSA rewards academic achievement, offers student scholarships, funds classroom grants, puts on teacher appreciation events, and supports the FHS Food Bank.

We rely entirely on membership dues and donations to fund the PTSA budget, and as a 501(c)3, your donation is tax-deductible. For details on how the funds are spent, see the proposed budget HERE. 

 

January 21: PTSA Meeting, Library, 7pm-8pm

January 21: ANG Meeting, Library, 8pm-9pm CANCELED

January 28: End of 2nd Quarter; Full Day - NO early release. 

January 29: No School; Student Holiday, Teacher Workday

February 17: No School; Washington's Birthday and President's Day Holiday

3501 Lion Run Fairfax, VA 22030  | Main Office: 703-219-2200

Attendance: 703-219-2211| Web

 

Upcoming Events

January 18: Saturday School 9am-12pm, Library

January 20: School Holiday (Martin Luther King, Jr. Day/Inauguration Day)

January 21: PTSA Meeting, Library, 7pm-8pm

January 21: ANG Meeting, Library, 8pm-9pm

January 28: End of 2nd Quarter; Full Day - NO early release. 

January 29: No School; Student Holiday, Teacher Workday

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Thank you for attending Curriculum Night!

 

January 17, 2025

 

Dear Fairfax Families,

What an action-packed and inspiring first full week back at Fairfax High School! It has been a joy to witness the energy, collaboration, and intentional planning that are shaping a strong foundation for the rest of this school year and beyond. Here are some of the highlights from this week:

Junior Class Events

This week, we hosted our Junior Class Meeting and Junior College Night. These events provided invaluable insights for students and their families on college admissions, finding the “right fit,” and future planning. It was wonderful to see so many families engaged in these important conversations about their students’ next steps.

Celebrating Senior Athletes

We were thrilled to celebrate our Wrestling and Swim & Dive Senior Nights. Recognizing the hard work, dedication, and achievements of our Class of 2025 athletes is always a highlight. Thank you to everyone who made these celebrations so special for our students.

Senior Class Updates

Our Senior Class Meetings for both students and parents were filled with excitement as we discussed all things related to the end of the school year and graduation. We are eagerly anticipating:

• Our first-ever whole-class College Signing Day
• Our inaugural Senior Class Trip
• Planning a memorable Graduation Ceremony

These milestones will surely create lasting memories for the Class of 2025.

New Year Open House

This week we hosted our New Year Open House for families who are new to Fairfax High School or enrolled after the beginning of the year events. This event was a wonderful opportunity to welcome new members to our community, showcase our programs, and ensure everyone feels at home here.

Curriculum Night and Curriculum Fair

Two of my favorite events of the year took place this week: Curriculum Night and Curriculum Fair. These events give students and families the opportunity to explore classes, connect with teachers, and have a voice in shaping educational journeys. It’s inspiring to see the excitement and curiosity these events spark. We had a full house, and we thank our teachers for their commitment and enthusiasm around their content. 

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day 

This week we recognized Dr. King and we encouraged our students to engage in acts of service within their community and beyond. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. shared, "The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character-that is the goal of true education."  

Thank you to our dedicated staff, students, and families for making this week so impactful. The energy and enthusiasm in our school community are truly unmatched. Together, we are making Fairfax a place where every student thrives and feels supported.

Here’s to a PAWSome weekend! 

In partnership and collaboration, 

  Included in this issue:

 

Calendar Reminders

• Orthodox Epiphany, January 19
• Martin Luther King Jr Day, January 20
• Inauguration Day, January 20
• Saturday School, Jan. 18 & 25
• Second Quarter Ends, January 28

Fairfax Lions Need to Know:

• Keeping Kids Warm
• SR&R and Cell Phone Survey
• Gradebook Available Until End-of-Quarter
• Student Services Important Dates

Fairfax Lions Nice to Know:

• Be a Science Fair Judge!
• Gap Year Fair
• College Partnership Program
• Varsity Tutors
• District News - In Case You Missed It
• Quick Links

Fairfax HS PTSA

• Meeting Reminders
• Fairfax Academy Presents: Once Upon A One More Time
• Join the PTSA!

🗓️Calendar Reminders Orthodox Epiphany, January 19

 

FCPS has designated Orthodox Epiphany as a religious and cultural observance day. There is school on these days, however specific events that cannot be made up will not be held on these observance days. See the complete school year calendar.

Spanish: Epifanía OrtodoxaEn la Iglesia Ortodoxa, la Epifanía se celebra el 19 de Enero y conmemora el bautismo de Jesús en lugar de la llegada de los Reyes Magos. Se cree que el bautismo de Cristo por Juan el Precursor (Juan el Bautista) en el río Jordán inició el ministerio de Cristo en la tierra y reveló la Santísima Trinidad de Dios, Jesús y el Espíritu Santo a la humanidad. 

El calendario escolar reconoce muchas observaciones religiosas y culturales (días O) durante el año escolar. Hay escuela en estos días, sin embargo, la Junta Escolar ha ordenado que los exámenes, pruebas, excursiones, graduación, "homecoming", o eventos atléticos programados por FCPS no se llevarán a cabo en estos días de observancia.

Vea el calendario completo del año escolar.

Korean: 정교회 주현절FCPS는 정교회 주현절을 종교 및 문화 준수일로 지정했습니다. 이 날에는 등교하지만, 보충할 수 없는 특정 행사는 이 기념일에 열리지 않습니다. 학년도 전체 학사 일정을 확인하세요.

Martin Luther King Day (Holiday) / Inauguration Day, January 20

 

Martin Luther King Jr. Day Holiday

Schools and offices will be closed on Monday, January 20, for the Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday. See the complete school year calendar.

Spanish: Día de MLK: Las escuelas y oficinas estarán cerradas el Lunes 20 de enero por el feriado del Día de Martin Luther King Jr. Vea el calendario completo del año escolar.

Korean: 마틴 루터 킹 데이 공휴일상기 사항. 1월 20일 월요일은 마틴 루터 킹 공휴일로 학교 및 오피스가 문을 닫습니다. 마틴 루터 킹과 관련된 상세 정보 알아보기. 전체 학년도 일정을 확인하세요.

Saturday School Jan. 18 & 25

Students, if you're feeling a bit overwhelmed with assignments, Saturday School is an excellent time to ask for help, recover some of your course work and attendance concerns - especially before 2nd quarter ends! 

Saturday School will be available Jan. 18 & 25

No sign up needed! Students report to the LIBRARY from 9AM to 12PM. Snacks provided. 

No transportation provided.

2nd Quarter Ends, January 28

January 28, is the last day of the quarter. See the complete school year calendar.

Spanish: Fin de TrimestreEl Martes, 28 de Enero, es el último día del trimestre. Vea el calendario completo del año escolar.

Korean: 분기 종료(Quarter End)1월 28일인 화요일은 분기의 마지막 날입니다. 전체 학년도 일정을 확인하세요.

Fairfax Lions Need to Know: 🧥Keeping Kids Warm

Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

Winter weather is here! As a reminder, please make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy time outdoors. Schools monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories that may prevent children from being outside for activities like recess or physical education.

View Fairfax County’s Winter Weather/Extreme Cold safety tips. 

If you need assistance getting cold-weather clothing for your family, please contact our family liaisons, Hala Shafik, at [email protected], and Ana Bauserman, at [email protected]. You may also contact Fairfax County Coordinated Services Planning (CSP) at 703-222-0880. Their multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health care. 

SR&R and Cell Phone Survey

SR&R and Cell Phone Policy Survey Coming Soon

All FCPS families and middle and high school students will be receiving an email invitation on Tuesday, January 21, to participate in a survey about FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R), cell phone policy, and cell phone storage options. The survey will be available from January 21 to February 3. Please take a few moments to share your feedback and help FCPS make informed, inclusive decisions for all of our schools!

Gradebook Available Until End-of-Quarter

Gradebook Available Until End-of-Quarter Based on community feedback from the first quarter closure, FCPS revisited the scheduled dates for closing the Gradebook and Report Card modules in the SIS ParentVUE and StudentVUE apps. 

Moving forward, the app will close in alignment with the actual quarter-end dates. This change will allow students and families to view their assignments and grades until the last day of the quarter. Gradebook will be closed for the second quarter from Tuesday, Jan. 28, 4pm to Tuesday, Feb. 4, 6am. 

Access Your Child’s Grades Through SIS ParentVue
Learn how your ParentVUE account allows you to easily access grade reports and other helpful information about your child. 

Student Services Important Dates Academic Advising Meetings begin:
Tuesday, January 21

Students will meet with their School Counselor through their English classes to select courses for the 2025-2026 school year. Parents that want to be a part of this conversation are encouraged to reach out to their students' counselor.

Virtual Academic Advising Night:
Thursday, January 23, 6-8PM – NEW MAKEUP EVENT ADDED

Virtual Curriculum Night option. This is an Academic Advising event for the classes of 2026, 2027, 2028, and 2029 (rising 9th, current 9th, 10th, and 11th grade). The evening aims to provide families with information to help select courses for the 2025-2026 school year. Topics to include graduation requirements, electives, advanced placement, dual enrollment, and honors level classes. Rising 9th grade can attend virtually from 6 to 7PM and rising 10-12 may attend from 7-8PM. This event will be recorded. Links will be provided closer to the date.

On-Time Academy Application Deadline:
Friday, March 7, 2025

Students interested in an academy course must have a submitted application to be considered on time. Applications are completed through their School Counselor. 

Last day to change course requests for the 2025-2026 school year: Friday, June 6

Please view our Academic Advising site (https://fairfaxhs.fcps.edu/student-services/academic-advising) for all information. If you have questions, please reach out to your child's counselor.

Fairfax Lions Nice to Know:  🌟 Be a Science Fair Judge! 🌟   Are you a scientist, engineer, or science enthusiast?

Do you have a passion for discovery and helping students shine?

We're looking for volunteer judges to evaluate projects at our Fairfax HS Science Fair on February 1, 2025!

Your expertise, enthusiasm and constructive feedback can make a lasting impact on budding, young scientists.

SIGN UP TODAY!

📧 Email us at [email protected]

🌐 Register online - follow the link or QR Code: https://forms.gle/azrkLQnpfZgazirX9  

Thank you for your support!

✈️ Gap Year Fair

Learn About Opportunities for the Year Following Graduation at the Gap Year Fair

FCPS School Counseling Services and Go Overseas will co-host the annual FCPS Gap Year Fair on Tuesday, January 28, 6-8:30 p.m., at Marshall High School. 

This event is for high school students and their families who are interested in learning about opportunities for the year following high school graduation. Students should register at USA Gap Year Fairs.  

College Partnership Program

Do you have a student between grades 8 - 11, who wants to go to college? If so, they should consider applying to the College Partnership Program (CPP), which offers support from exploration to application! The deadline to apply is February 28, 2025.

CPP offers programming to help prepare students and families from 9th grade all the way through applying to and enrolling in college, including:

• Academic counseling
• College visits
• Help with completing college and scholarship applications
• Monthly meetings
• A summer overnight experience on a college campus  
• News and information related to colleges and careers via Schoology

All students are eligible and encouraged to apply to this program, and are expected to meet the following requirements:

• Maintain a GPA of 2.5 or higher in core classes
• Attend monthly CPP meetings 
• Are willing to pursue advanced coursework
• Demonstrate leadership in school or community activities

The goal of the program is to systematically mitigate the impact of barriers to access and opportunity, and support students who are from populations that are historically underrepresented on college campuses. This includes students who are the first in their family to attend college in the U.S., Multilingual learners, students who are economically disadvantaged, and students with disabilities. 

Application Link: https://tinyurl.com/u2e3hme3 

The application is only open to students using their FCPS G-Suite account. All applications will be submitted ONLINE ONLY.

If you have questions, please reach out to Nikki Bender, [email protected], Dara Markenson, [email protected], or Bertha Mensah,  [email protected]. 

📑 Varsity Tutors

Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes; on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring; essay editing; and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests.

Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

District News - In Case You Missed it

FCPS News - In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• Dress Children Warmly
• Proposed Construction Projects
• Dual Language Immersion Lottery

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.  

Quick Links

• Fairfax HS Academy
• Educate Fairfax 
• FCPS Family Academy
• Family Resource Center
• FCPS CARES
• FCPS News
• Job Openings
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• SIS ParentVUE
• Standard School Year Calendar

District News - In Case You Missed It throughout the year:

• Visit the Fairfax High School Website
• Visit the Fairfax PTSA Website
• Sign up for News You Choose messages or update your account

Fairfax HS PTSA Table of Contents:

• Meeting Reminders
• Fairfax Academy Presents: Once Upon A One More Time
• Join the PTSA! 

PTSA & ANG January Meeting Reminders

The next PTSA meeting is January 21, 2025, at 7:00pm in the Library.

Immediately following is the ANG meeting at 8:00pm.

See you there!

Fairfax Academy Presents: Once Upon A One More Time (High School Version)

 

Powered by the chart-topping hits of the undisputed Princess of Pop, Once Upon a One More Time turns our favorite fairytales upside down with a clever twist! When a fairy godmother goes rogue and plops copies of The Feminine Mystique in the laps of classic heroines, the damsels go on a quest to rewrite their stories and redefine “happily ever after.” Once Upon a One More Time weaves 23 of Britney Spears’ smash singles into a fun and brilliant book by Jon Hartmere, culminating in a show with non-stop appeal!

Please Note: Some material may not be suitable for all ages.

All performances held at Fairfax High School Auditorium:

• January 31, February 1, 6, 7 @ 7:00pm
• February 2 @ 2:00pm
• February 8 @ 2:00pm & 7:00pm

Tickets are on sale NOW! https://www.etix.com/ticket/v/15651/ 

It's Never Too Late to JOIN PTSA

JOIN the PTSA to support our FHS teachers, students and community! Your member dues and donations work to fund ALL of our activities and programs, help keep you engaged and informed about what is happening in our school community, and provide opportunities to get involved and have fun with other families. Join us!  

Do you want to celebrate a Fairfax employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way? Or goes beyond what is expected? If so, then click here to share with everyone.

3501 Lion Run Fairfax, VA 22030  | Main Office: 703-219-2200

Attendance: 703-219-2211| Web

 

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

Table of Contents:

• Junior College Planning Night, Jan. 14
• Senior Parent Virtual Meeting, Jan. 15
• Saturday School, Jan. 18 & 25
• January Meeting Schedule 
• Join the PTSA!
• Donate to our No-Fuss Fundraiser 
• Upcoming Events

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Tonight! Junior College Planning Night, Jan. 14

 

Mark your calendars and please plan to attend…

 

Junior College Planning Night

for juniors and their parents/guardians

Tuesday, January 14, 2025 @ 7:00 pm

Fairfax High School Auditorium

 

We are almost halfway through junior year, so it is time to start thinking ahead to the college admissions process!! This year’s format will be an in person, panel discussion and will be targeted to juniors who are interested in attending a four-year college or university. Four, very experienced College Admissions Officers will share valuable advice for your college search.  We plan to ask important questions about research, preparation, applications, acceptance and making the final decision. We’ll wrap up with Q&A time dedicated to answering all of your admissions-related questions.

All juniors interested in attending a four-year college or university are encouraged to attend!

Note: The format of this event is a panel discussion and will not be recorded.  If you cannot attend on January 14, you are welcome to go to Chantilly HS on Monday, January 13 @ 7:00 pm, or Madison HS on Wednesday, January 15 @ 7:00 pm.  It will be the same exact program with the same speakers. 

For more information, contact: Ms. Maureen Kim, Fairfax HS College & Career Specialist at [email protected], or 703-219-2204. 

See the full flyer here: Junior College Night Flyer 2025.pdf

🎓Senior Parent Virtual Meeting, Wed., Jan. 15

Save the Date: Senior Class Graduation Update

Senior Administrator, Brian Plancich, and Director of Student Services, Ashley Anderson, will host a virtual meeting from 6:30-7:00 pm on Wednesday, January 15 for senior parents. This meeting will share information regarding Spring events, graduation events, and the graduation ceremony. There will also be a student meeting held at school, the morning of January 15, to communicate similar information with our seniors as we are now less than five months until June 5. If you are unable to attend, a link to the presentation will be shared after the meeting. 

Saturday School January 18 & 25

Students! Saturday School will be available January 18 & 25. Teachers will be available to guide you through any challenges you're facing. Take advantage of this extra time, recover some of your course work and attendance concerns, especially before 2nd quarter ends. 

No sign up needed! Students report to the LIBRARY from 9AM to 12PM. Snacks provided. Transportation is on your own. 

Meeting Reminders

The next PTSA meeting is January 21, 2025, at 7:00pm in the Library.

Immediately following is the ANG meeting at 8:00pm.

See you there!

📝Never Too Late to JOIN PTSA 

 

JOIN the PTSA to support our FHS teachers, students and community! Your member dues and donations work to fund all of our activities and programs, help keep you engaged and informed about what is happening in our school community and provide opportunities to get involved if your time permits.  

No-Fuss Fundraiser

Support our FHS Students and Teachers with your generous donations! Our No-Fuss Fundraiser has a goal of $2200 to fully fund the proposed 24-25 PTSA budget. The Parent, Teacher, Student Association supports FHS students and teachers through financing events and supporting wellness, diversity, and volunteerism. 

The PTSA rewards academic achievement, offers student scholarships, funds classroom grants, puts on teacher appreciation events, and supports the FHS Food Bank. We rely entirely on membership dues and donations to fund the PTSA budget, and as a 501(c)3, your DONATION is tax-deductible. For details on how the funds are spent, see the proposed budget online: https://www.fairfaxptsa.org/board/bylaws-budget

 

January 14: College Planning Night for the Class of 2026, FHS Auditorium @ 7pm

January 15: Senior Parent Virtual Meeting, 6:30pm

January 16: Curriculum Night, 6pm-8pm

January 18: Saturday School 9am-12pm, Library

January 20: Holiday (Martin Luther King, Jr’s Birthday/ Inauguration Day)

January 21: PTSA Meeting, Library, 7pm-8pm

January 21: ANG Meeting, Library, 8pm-9pm

January 28: End of 2nd Quarter; Full Day - NO early release. 

January 29: No School; Student Holiday, Teacher Workday

3501 Lion Run Fairfax, VA 22030  | Main Office: 703-219-2200

Attendance: 703-219-2211| Web

 

Upcoming Events

January 11: Saturday School CANCELED

January 14: College Planning Night, Class of 2026

January 15: Senior Parent Virtual Meeting

January 16: NEW DATE: Curriculum Night

January 17: Principal's Coffee, 7:30am, Career Center

January 18: Saturday School 9am-12pm, Library

January 20: Holiday (Martin Luther King, Jr’s Birthday/ Inauguration Day)

January 21: PTSA Meeting, Library, 7pm-8pm

January 21: ANG Meeting, Library, 8pm-9pm

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

❄️👏A huge thank you to all the City Schools' staff working hard to clear snow and get our schools ready for students to return! 

Pictures and Message courtesy of City of Fairfax Schools

 

January 10, 2025

 

Happy Friday Fairfax, 

Happy New Year! I hope this message finds you well and that you had a joyful and restful holiday season. As we step into a brand-new year, I am filled with excitement and optimism for the opportunities that lie ahead for our PAWSome school community.

First, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to our dedicated staff who worked tirelessly to ensure the campus was safe and ready for learning following the recent snow days. Their hard work and commitment does not go unnoticed, and it is because of their efforts that we can continue providing a welcoming environment for our students.

As we gear up for the first full week of 2025 back at school, I encourage all our families to stay informed about the exciting events we have planned. From curriculum night to college planning night to our Class of 2025 meeting, there is so much to look forward to. Be sure to check out our website for the "NEW" course advising page.

Let’s make this year a memorable one by continuing to work together to support our students’ growth and success. Thank you for being an integral part of our Fairfax family. Here’s to a fantastic start to 2025 and to always remembering WE ROAR at FHS. 

In partnership, 

  Included in this issue:

 

Calendar Reminders

• NO Saturday School, Jan. 11
• Principal's Coffee, Friday, January 17, 7:30am, Career Center
• January 15: Senior Parent Virtual Meeting

Fairfax Lions Need to Know:

• Cell Phone Policy Reminder
• Gradebook Available Until End-of-Quarter
• Student Services Updates! New Dates and Info!
• Be the First to Hear about Closings and Delays 

Fairfax Lions Nice to Know:

• College Planning Night for Juniors, January 14
• College Partnership Program
• Varsity Tutors
• Academy Open Houses Begin this Month
• District News - In Case You Missed It
• Quick Links

Fairfax HS PTSA

• Meeting Reminders
• Join the PTSA!

🗓️Calendar Reminders NO Saturday School this week

Please note, due to the snow days this week, Saturday School for Jan. 11th has been CANCELLED.

The next Saturday School will be held on Jan. 17.

Principal's Coffee, January 17

The next Principal's Coffee will be held Friday, January 17, at 7:30am in the College & Career Center (rm. L106).

Please join us for a casual conversation with the Principal, to hear about everything going on at  Fairfax! 

Senior Parents: Save the Date - Virtual Meeting, Wednesday, Jan. 15

Senior Administrator, Brian Plancich, and Director of Student Services, Ashley Anderson will host a virtual meeting from 6:30-7:00 pm on Wednesday, January 15 for senior parents. This meeting will share information regarding Spring events, graduation events, and the graduation ceremony. There will also be a senior class meeting held at school, the morning of January 15, to communicate similar information with our seniors as we are now less than five months until June 5. If you are unable to attend, a link to the slides will be shared with contact information included.

A link will be shared with senior families on Monday. 

Fairfax Lions Need to Know: 📵Cell Phone Policy Reminder

Phones Down, Engagement Up: FCPS Cell Phone Policy

Keeping cell phones off during the school day helps students focus and learn. It also boosts positive social behavior. Review FCPS’ cell phone expectations by grade level with your child and help keep our classrooms free of distractions! If you need to reach your child during the school day, please call our main office, 703-219-2200. 

Gradebook Available Until End-of-Quarter

Gradebook Available Until End-of-Quarter Based on community feedback from the first quarter closure, FCPS revisited the scheduled dates for closing the Gradebook and Report Card modules in the SIS ParentVUE and StudentVUE apps. 

Moving forward, the app will close in alignment with the actual quarter-end dates. This change will allow students and families to view their assignments and grades until the last day of the quarter. Gradebook will be closed for the second quarter from Tuesday, Jan. 28, 4pm to Tuesday, Feb. 4, 6am. 

Access Your Child’s Grades Through SIS ParentVue
Learn how your ParentVUE account allows you to easily access grade reports and other helpful information about your child. 

Curriculum Night - New Date: January 16 Due to snow days, we have rescheduled our Community & Curriculum Night to Thursday, January 16. 

This will allow teachers to review information with students that was originally scheduled for January 7 and 8, prior to Curriculum Night and the Curriculum Fair. 

We are aware that our NEW curriculum night coincides with KJMS’s Curriculum Night. You will see an alternate virtual night for parents to attend on January 23 below. We will send out links closer to the date.

Academic Emphasis:
Wednesday, January 15 and Thursday, January 16

Teachers will review departmental course offerings during class time for the 2025-2026 school year. 

Curriculum & Community Night:
Thursday, January 16, 6-8PM – NEW DATE, SAME TIME

This is our Academic Advising event for the classes of 2026, 2027, 2028, and 2029 (rising 9th, current 9th, 10th, and 11th grade). The evening aims to provide families with information to help select courses for the 2025-2026 school year. Topics to include electives, advanced placement, dual enrollment, and honors level classes. There will be optional information sessions for rising 9 from 6:15 to 7pm and then rising 10-12 from 7:15 to 8pm in the Auditorium. Throughout the night, tables will be set up for families to learn about courses directly from staff currently teaching courses or students that are currently enrolled. 

Curriculum Fair:
Friday, January 17, during Lion Time

Students select 4 electives to visit and learn more about in consideration of courses for the 2025-2026 school year. 

Academic Advising Meetings begin:
Tuesday, January 21

Students will meet with their School Counselor through their English classes to select courses for the 2025-2026 school year. Parents that want to be a part of this conversation are encouraged to reach out to their students' counselor.

Virtual Academic Advising Night:
Thursday, January 23, 6-8PM – NEW MAKEUP EVENT ADDED

Virtual Curriculum Night option. This is an Academic Advising event for the classes of 2026, 2027, 2028, and 2029 (rising 9th, current 9th, 10th, and 11th grade). The evening aims to provide families with information to help select courses for the 2025-2026 school year. Topics to include graduation requirements, electives, advanced placement, dual enrollment, and honors level classes. Rising 9th grade can attend virtually from 6 to 7PM and rising 10-12 may attend from 7-8PM. This event will be recorded. Links will be provided closer to the date.

On-Time Academy Application Deadline:
Friday, March 7, 2025

Students interested in an academy course must have a submitted application to be considered on time. Applications are completed through their School Counselor. 

Last day to change course requests for the 2025-2026 school year: Friday, June 6

Please view our Academic Advising site (https://fairfaxhs.fcps.edu/student-services/academic-advising) for all information. If you have questions, please reach out to your child's counselor.

❄️ Be Among the First to Hear About School Delays/Closings

Watch this video to see how FCPS makes weather closing decisions. 

FCPS’ website is generally the first place to find out about emergency weather closings. Other communication channels will be used as quickly as possible, including email, text, social media, and news stations. Learn more about how schedule changes are communicated.

Be among the first to hear about weather delays and closings! Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE. Emails and text messages are sent to parents and caregivers based on the addresses and cell phone numbers entered on this platform. 

Spanish: ❄️ Sea uno de los primeros en enterarse de los retrasos/cierres de escuelas

Mire este video para ver como FCPS toma decisiones sobre cierres por mal tiempo. 

El sitio web de FCPS es generalmente el primer lugar para enterarse de los cierres de emergencia por el clima. Otros canales de comunicación serán usados lo más pronto posible, incluyendo correo electrónico, texto, medios sociales, y estaciones de noticias. Aprenda más sobre cómo se comunican los cambios de horario.Sea uno de los primeros en enterarse de los retrasos y cierres por mal tiempo. Actualice su información de contacto en SIS ParentVUE. Los correos electrónicos y mensajes de texto se envían a los padres en función de las direcciones y números de teléfono móvil introducidos en esta plataforma.

Fairfax Lions Nice to Know:  College Planning Night for Juniors, January 14

 

This is a reminder to please attend…

College Planning Night

for juniors and their parents/guardians

Tuesday, January 14, 2025 @ 7:00-8:30 pm

Fairfax High School – Auditorium

We are almost halfway through junior year, so it is time to start thinking ahead to the college admissions process!!  This year’s format will be an in person, panel discussion and will be targeted to juniors who are interested in attending a four-year college or university.  Four, very experienced College Admissions Officers will share valuable advice for your college search.  We plan to ask important questions about research, preparation, applications, acceptance and making the final decision.  We’ll wrap up with Q&A time dedicated to answering all of your admissions-related questions.

All juniors interested in attending a four-year college or university are encouraged to attend!  No RSVP required.

Note: The format of this event is a panel discussion and will not be recorded.  If you cannot attend on January 14, you are welcome to go to Chantilly HS on Monday, January 13 @ 7:00 pm, or Madison HS on Wednesday, January 15 @ 7:00 pm.  It will be the same exact program with the same speakers. 

For more information, contact: Ms. Maureen Kim, Fairfax HS College & Career Specialist at [email protected], or 703-219-2204. 

See the full flyer: Junior College Night Flyer 2025.pdf

College Partnership Program

Do you have a student between grades 8 - 11, who wants to go to college? If so, they should consider applying to the College Partnership Program (CPP), which offers support from exploration to application! The deadline to apply is February 28, 2025.

CPP offers programming to help prepare students and families from 9th grade all the way through applying to and enrolling in college, including:

• Academic counseling
• College visits
• Help with completing college and scholarship applications
• Monthly meetings
• A summer overnight experience on a college campus  
• News and information related to colleges and careers via Schoology

All students are eligible and encouraged to apply to this program, and are expected to meet the following requirements:

• Maintain a GPA of 2.5 or higher in core classes
• Attend monthly CPP meetings 
• Are willing to pursue advanced coursework
• Demonstrate leadership in school or community activities

The goal of the program is to systematically mitigate the impact of barriers to access and opportunity, and support students who are from populations that are historically underrepresented on college campuses. This includes students who are the first in their family to attend college in the U.S., Multilingual learners, students who are economically disadvantaged, and students with disabilities. 

Application Link: https://tinyurl.com/u2e3hme3 

The application is only open to students using their FCPS G-Suite account. All applications will be submitted ONLINE ONLY.

If you have questions, please reach out to Nikki Bender, [email protected], Dara Markenson, [email protected], or Bertha Mensah,  [email protected]. 

📑 Varsity Tutors

Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes; on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring; essay editing; and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests.

Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

🗓️ Save the Date: Academy Open Houses Begin in January!

FCPS high school academies will hold open houses for interested students beginning in January.

A high school academy is a center within a high school that offers advanced technical and specialized courses to prepare students for postsecondary education and/or career fields. Students enrolling in academy elective courses will be provided with opportunities to participate in a variety of career experiences including shadowing, mentoring, or internships with local businesses.

Learn more: https://bit.ly/41vtnk1 or visit fcps.edu and search for “Academies and Specialized Programs."

District News - In Case You Missed it

FCPS NewsIn case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• National Merit Commended Scholars
• Celebrating the Best of 2024 in FCPS
• Cell Phones Off, Learning On

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.  

Quick Links

• Fairfax HS Academy
• Educate Fairfax 
• FCPS Family Academy
• Family Resource Center
• FCPS CARES
• FCPS News
• Job Openings
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• SIS ParentVUE
• Standard School Year Calendar

District News - In Case You Missed It throughout the year:

• Visit the Fairfax High School Website
• Visit the Fairfax PTSA Website
• Sign up for News You Choose messages or update your account

Fairfax HS PTSA Table of Contents:

• Meeting Reminders
• Join the PTSA! 

PTSA & ANG January Meeting Reminders

The next PTSA meeting is January 21, 2025, at 7:00pm in the Library.

Immediately following is the ANG meeting at 8:00pm.

See you there!

It's Never Too Late to JOIN PTSA

JOIN the PTSA to support our FHS teachers, students and community! Your member dues and donations work to fund ALL of our activities and programs, help keep you engaged and informed about what is happening in our school community, and provide opportunities to get involved and have fun with other families. Join us!  

Do you want to celebrate a Fairfax employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way? Or goes beyond what is expected? If so, then click here to share with everyone.

3501 Lion Run Fairfax, VA 22030  | Main Office: 703-219-2200

Attendance: 703-219-2211| Web

 

Upcoming Events

December 21: NO Saturday School. Enjoy break!

December 23 - Jan 3: FCPS Winter Break, All Schools Closed

January 6: Classes Resume, FHS Blue Day

January 6: Cultural Observance: Three Kings Day/Epiphany

January 7: Cultural Observance: Orthodox Christmas

January 7-8: Academic Emphasis

January 9: Curriculum Fair

January 11: Saturday School 9am-12pm

January 14: College Planning Night for the Class of 2026, FHS Auditorium @ 7pm

January 18: Saturday School 9am-12pm, Library

January 20: Holiday (Martin Luther King, Jr’s Birthday/ Inauguration Day)

January 21: PTSA Meeting, Library, 7pm-8pm

January 21: ANG Meeting, Library, 8pm-9pm

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

 

December 20, 2024

 

Happy FAIRFAX Friday Family and Friends, 

As the snow was sprinkling down outside today and I watched some of our classes coming out to catch a glimpse, the smiles and laughter were so very magical and fulfilling. My hope is that your winter break has many moments of peace, rest, and JOY.  We are so appreciative of our partnerships with our families and community.  

This week we have had lots of Fairfax FUN. We sang in the cafeteria, we played minute to win it games, we enjoyed a pep rally, shared holiday treats, competed in gingerbread making, added some hallway pizzazz with door decorating and we also finished many major assignments. We hope each of our students is closing out this year feeling supported and comfortable with their classes, our community, and the many opportunities they have to achieve their goals. 

We look forward to seeing everyone back here in the NEW YEAR. We thank you for your collaboration and support of our school. 

Warmest regards, 

  ✨ Happy Holidays from the Admin Team!! From us to you ~ enjoy our holiday greeting 🎶   Included in this issue:

 

Student Spotlight

• Best Buddies
• Robotics Team Results
• Teachers for Tomorrow

Staff Spotlight

• Fairfax HS Outstanding Employee Winners

Calendar Reminders:

• Winter Break, Dec. 23 - Jan. 3
• New Year's Day, January 1
• Three Kings Day, January 6
• Orthodox Christmas, January 7

Fairfax Lions Need to Know:

• Be the First to Hear about Closings and Delays
• Winter Resources 

Fairfax Lions Nice to Know:

• Mental Health Teletherapy
• Academy Open Houses Begin in January
• District News - In Case You Missed It
• Quick Links

Fairfax HS PTSA

• Boundary Review Meetings
• Meeting Reminders
• Join the PTSA!

Student Spotlight Best Buddies Program

 

The best buddies program is an opportunity for students with disabilities to interact with their non-disabled peers. Our program at Fairfax matches students with a buddy and the students meet during Lion Time to share different activities. During our holiday party students watched a holiday movie and made paper snowflakes. A great time was had by all!

Robotics Team Wins 1st Place "Connect" Award!

 

On December 15th, the FHS Robotics Team, which consists of Ibtihal Hanna, Khalid Amikishiyev, Joshua Khilnani, Vedik Vajja, Benedict Thomas and Adel Al Jumaily, won the first place “connect” award at the robotics competition held at Deep Run High School, Glen Allen, VA.

They also came in 7th out of the 34 teams that competed at the event. Thanks and appreciation to our parent menor, Mr. Manchanda. 

Geeta Sridharan
Chemistry Teacher
Robotics Club Sponsor

Teachers for Tomorrow

FHS hopes to inspire the next generation of teachers by offering the courses Teachers for Tomorrow 1, and Teachers for Tomorrow 2. The TFT 2 course offers students two internship experiences to help them learn from the experts. Addie Curry, Emmanuel Caiza Avila and Erin Despres started their Katherine Johnson Middle School internships in September and finished last week. They grew so much as educators and are excited to continue learning in January! Well done, Lions!! 🦁🍎

Staff Spotlight 🏆Outstanding Employee Winners

L-R, top to bottom: Amy Hard, Ginny Cate, Anna Cannon, Kyu Kil

 

Thank you to everyone who submitted nominations for our Outstanding Staff.

Fairfax High School is excited to announce the school-based winners for the FCPS Outstanding Employee Awards. We were thrilled with over 86 nominees across the variety of categories. 

Excellence Award Winners:

• Outstanding Teacher: Kyu Kil, Biology Teacher
• Outstanding New Teacher: Anna Cannon, Math Teacher
• Outstanding Leader: Dana Walker, Assistant Principal
• Outstanding Professional: Amy Hard, Career Experience Specialist, Fairfax Academy
• Outstanding Operational: Ginny Cate, Administrative Assistant
• Outstanding Principal: Georgina Aye

Congratulations! We are lucky to have such dedicated, hard-working employees in our Lion Community. Our hope is that each of these amazing LIONS will move on in the process to represent the region. 

🗓️Calendar Reminders

 

As a reminder, winter break will be held Monday, December 23, to Friday, January 3. To help make sure you and your children have a restful break, we have asked that no homework be assigned during this time. Teachers may assign long-range assignments in the weeks ahead of the break, allowing students to practice time management skills, but no assignments will be due immediately following the break. We look forward to welcoming students back in the new year.Classes resume on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025.

See the complete school year calendar.

🎉New Year's Day, January 1 - Welcome 2025!

 

Happy New Year, FCPS Fam! We look forward to seeing students and staff on Monday, January 6, 2025, when all FCPS schools and offices will reopen.

https://www.fcps.edu/calendars/standard-school-year-calendar

Three Kings Day, January 6

 

FCPS has designated Three Kings Day/Epiphany as a religious and cultural observance day. There is school on these days, however specific events that cannot be made up will not be held on these observance days. See the complete school year calendar.

Orthodox Christmas, January 7

 

FCPS has designated Orthodox Christmas as a religious and cultural observance day. There is school on these days, however specific events that cannot be made up will not be held on these observance days. See the complete school year calendar.

Fairfax Lions Need to Know: ❄️ Be Among the First to Hear About School Delays/Closings

Watch this video to see how FCPS makes weather closing decisions. 

FCPS’ website is generally the first place to find out about emergency weather closings. Other communication channels will be used as quickly as possible, including email, text, social media, and news stations. Learn more about how schedule changes are communicated.

Be among the first to hear about weather delays and closings! Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE. Emails and text messages are sent to parents and caregivers based on the addresses and cell phone numbers entered on this platform. 

Spanish: ❄️ Sea uno de los primeros en enterarse de los retrasos/cierres de escuelas

Mire este video para ver como FCPS toma decisiones sobre cierres por mal tiempo. 

El sitio web de FCPS es generalmente el primer lugar para enterarse de los cierres de emergencia por el clima. Otros canales de comunicación serán usados lo más pronto posible, incluyendo correo electrónico, texto, medios sociales, y estaciones de noticias. Aprenda más sobre cómo se comunican los cambios de horario.Sea uno de los primeros en enterarse de los retrasos y cierres por mal tiempo. Actualice su información de contacto en SIS ParentVUE. Los correos electrónicos y mensajes de texto se envían a los padres en función de las direcciones y números de teléfono móvil introducidos en esta plataforma.

Winter Resources from Fairfax County Agencies 🍲 Food Assistance and Resource Guide

Food insecurity impacts more than 96,000 Fairfax County residents. There are many resources available to support those who need food assistance. Learn how to help these families and the many resources available to support those who need food assistance on Fairfax County’s website or view the county’s Human Services Resource Guide.

📚 Bundle Up With Books Over Break

Fairfax County Public Library’s (FCPL) winter reading adventure has begun and will continue through Friday, January 31, 2025. Visit your local FCPL library branch or visit their website to register and get a sneak peek at the prizes being offered.

Check out their Winter Reading Events webpage to learn about laser tag, movie nights, crafting sessions, Noon-Year Eve celebrations, and book discussions.

⛄ Get Outdoors for Winter Fun!

The Fairfax County Park Authority has rounded up its seasonal fun into a handy list of events happening across the county. 

Learn more about the Winter Wonderland and the Holiday Train at Burke Lake Park, Holiday on the Farm at Frying Pan Farm Park, and many more fun events.

Fairfax Lions Nice to Know:  💻 No-Cost Mental Health Teletherapy for All High School Students

Is your high schooler experiencing anxiety, behavior changes, or challenges with peer and family relationships? If so, you may refer your child for weekly therapy with a licensed therapist through Hazel Health. Visit the Teletherapy webpage for information on this service. 

🗓️ Save the Date: Academy Open Houses Begin in January!

FCPS high school academies will hold open houses for interested students beginning in January.

A high school academy is a center within a high school that offers advanced technical and specialized courses to prepare students for postsecondary education and/or career fields. Students enrolling in academy elective courses will be provided with opportunities to participate in a variety of career experiences including shadowing, mentoring, or internships with local businesses.

Chantilly Academy: January 8

Fairfax Academy: February 4

Falls Church Academy: January 9

Learn more: https://bit.ly/41vtnk1 or visit fcps.edu and search for “Academies and Specialized Programs."

District News - In Case You Missed It

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration
• Be Among the First to Hear About Closings/Delays
• Fall 2024 Sports Champions

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.  

Spanish: En caso de que se lo haya perdido en FCPS This Week, la división escolar compartió actualizaciones sobre los siguientes temas y otros:

• Inscripción para la Lotería del programa de Inmersión en Dos Idiomas
• Sea uno de los primeros en enterarse cuando las escuelas cierren o se retrasen
• Campeones Deportivos Otoño 2024

Lea FCPS Esta Semana para aprender más sobre estos temas. Si aún no recibe este boletín semanal, suscríbase hoy mismo. 

Quick Links

• Fairfax HS Academy
• Educate Fairfax 
• FCPS Family Academy
• Family Resource Center
• FCPS CARES
• FCPS News
• Job Openings
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• SIS ParentVUE
• Standard School Year Calendar

throughout the year:

• Visit the Fairfax High School Website
• Visit the Fairfax PTSA Website
• Sign up for News You Choose messages or update your account

Fairfax HS PTSA Table of Contents:

• Boundary Review Update
• Meeting Reminders
• Join the PTSA! 

📍 Comprehensive Boundary Review Update

The Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee held its second meeting on December 16 at Gatehouse Administration Center. View key takeaways from that meeting and access the meeting agenda, slides, and other materials that committee members received.  If you did not get a chance to attend an in-person Community Boundary Review Meeting, please consider participating in a virtual meeting:

• Friday, January 10, 2025, 6-7:30 p.m. 
• Thursday, January 16, 2025, 1-2:30 p.m. 
• Saturday, January 25, 2025, 9:30-11 a.m. 
• Monday, January 27, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 
• Tuesday, January 28, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 
• Monday, February 10, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

Language interpretation will be available. 

All virtual meetings will follow the same format as the in-person meetings that were recently held, and the same information will be shared. Please stay tuned for details on how to register. Visit FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage to learn more. Sign up for FCPS’ School Boundary Review newsletter as well.

Spanish: 📍 Actualizaciones de la Revisión Integral de Límites

El Comité Asesor de Revisión de Límites de la Superintendente tuvo su segunda reunión el 16 de diciembre en el Gatehouse Administration Center. Vea los puntos clave de esa reunión y acceda a la agenda de la reunión, diapositivas y otros materiales que los miembros del comité recibieron.  

Reuniones virtuales de la Comunidad para la Revisión Integral de Límites se llevarán a cabo:

• viernes, 10 de enero de 2025, 6-7:30 p.m. 
• jueves, 16 de enero de 2025, 1-2:30 p.m. 
• sábado, 25 de enero de 2025, 9:30-11 a.m. 
• lunes, 27 de enero de 2025, de 6:30 a 8 p.m. 
• martes, 28 de enero de 2025, de 6:30 a 8 p.m. 
• lunes, 10 de febrero de 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. . 

La inscripción estará disponible próximamente en la página web de Revisión Integral de Límites, donde también podrá informarse sobre el proceso de revisión de límites. Inscríbase también en nuestro boletín de Revisión de Límites Escolares.

PTSA & ANG January Meeting Reminders

The next PTSA meeting is January 21, 2025, at 7:00pm in the Library.

Immediately following is the ANG meeting at 8:00pm.

See you there!

It's Never Too Late to JOIN PTSA

JOIN the PTSA to support our FHS teachers, students and community! Your member dues and donations work to fund ALL of our activities and programs, help keep you engaged and informed about what is happening in our school community, and provide opportunities to get involved and have fun with other families. Join us!  

Do you want to celebrate a Fairfax employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way? Or goes beyond what is expected? If so, then click here to share with everyone.

3501 Lion Run Fairfax, VA 22030  | Main Office: 703-219-2200

Attendance: 703-219-2211| Web

 

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Table of Contents:

• Message from the PTSA President  
• January Meeting Schedule 
• Junior College Planning Night
• Join the PTSA!
• Donate to our No-Fuss Fundraiser 
• Upcoming Events

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Happy Holidays from the PTSA

 

Dear FHS Students and Families,

As we approach the holidays, we hope that this holiday is a time to relax, reflect, and enjoy quality time with loved ones, while also embracing the spirit of togetherness that this season brings.

🎄 Holiday (Winter Break) : December 23th- January 5th 🎆

This extended holiday is designed to allow our students, families, and staff to fully embrace the festive season, with plenty of time to recharge and come together in celebration with friends and family.

Holiday Tips for Students and Families:

• Use this time to unwind and enjoy moments with family and friends.
• Take time for yourself to reflect on the successes of the past year and set positive intentions for the new one.
• Stay active in fun, festive ways—whether it’s a family walk in the winter weather or a cozy indoor game night!
• Reach out to fellow FHS students and families to share the love and spirit of the season.

We look forward to celebrating this special time of year with all of you. May your holidays be filled with joy, laughter, and cherished moments. Happy Holidays from FHS PTSA to you and your loved ones!

Warm wishes,

Maria Felton
PTSA President

Meeting Reminders

The next PTSA meeting is January 21, 2025, at 7:00pm in the Library.

Immediately following is the ANG meeting at 8:00pm.

See you there!

Junior College Planning Night

 

Mark your calendars and please plan to attend…

 

Junior College Planning Night

for juniors and their parents/guardians

Tuesday, January 14, 2025 @ 7:00 pm

Fairfax High School Auditorium

 

We are almost halfway through junior year, so it is time to start thinking ahead to the college admissions process!! This year’s format will be an in person, panel discussion and will be targeted to juniors who are interested in attending a four-year college or university. Four, very experienced College Admissions Officers will share valuable advice for your college search.  We plan to ask important questions about research, preparation, applications, acceptance and making the final decision. We’ll wrap up with Q&A time dedicated to answering all of your admissions-related questions.

All juniors interested in attending a four-year college or university are encouraged to attend!

Note: The format of this event is a panel discussion and will not be recorded.  If you cannot attend on January 14, you are welcome to go to Chantilly HS on Monday, January 13 @ 7:00 pm, or Madison HS on Wednesday, January 15 @ 7:00 pm.  It will be the same exact program with the same speakers. 

For more information, contact: Ms. Maureen Kim, Fairfax HS College & Career Specialist at [email protected], or 703-219-2204. 

See the full flyer here: Junior College Night Flyer 2025.pdf

📝Never Too Late to JOIN PTSA 

 

JOIN the PTSA to support our FHS teachers, students and community! Your member dues and donations work to fund all of our activities and programs, help keep you engaged and informed about what is happening in our school community and provide opportunities to get involved if your time permits.  

No-Fuss Fundraiser

Support our FHS Students and Teachers with your generous donations! Our No-Fuss Fundraiser has a goal of $2200 to fully fund the proposed 24-25 PTSA budget. The Parent, Teacher, Student Association supports FHS students and teachers through financing events and supporting wellness, diversity, and volunteerism. 

The PTSA rewards academic achievement, offers student scholarships, funds classroom grants, puts on teacher appreciation events, and supports the FHS Food Bank. We rely entirely on membership dues and donations to fund the PTSA budget, and as a 501(c)3, your DONATION is tax-deductible. For details on how the funds are spent, see the proposed budget online: https://www.fairfaxptsa.org/board/bylaws-budget

 

December 21: NO Saturday School

December 23 - Jan 3: FCPS Winter Break, All Schools Closed

January 6: Classes Resume, FHS Blue Day

January 6: Cultural Observance: Three Kings Day/Epiphany

January 7: Cultural Observance: Orthodox Christmas

January 7-8: Academic Emphasis

January 9: Curriculum Fair

January 11: Saturday School 9am-12pm

January 14: College Planning Night for the Class of 2026, FHS Auditorium @ 7pm

January 18: Saturday School 9am-12pm, Library

January 20: Holiday (Martin Luther King, Jr’s Birthday/ Inauguration Day)

January 21: PTSA Meeting, Library, 7pm-8pm

January 21: ANG Meeting, Library, 8pm-9pm

3501 Lion Run Fairfax, VA 22030  | Main Office: 703-219-2200

Attendance: 703-219-2211| Web

 

Upcoming Events

December 13: FX Players CollaBRRet, and VHSL One-Act Preview, 6:30pm, Auditorium

December 21: NO Saturday School

December 23 - Jan 3: FCPS Winter Break, All Schools Closed

January 6: Classes Resume, Blue Day

January 6: Cultural Observance: Three Kings Day/Epiphany

January 7: Cultural Observance: Orthodox Christmas

January 7-8: Academic Emphasis

January 9: Curriculum Fair

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Lion Students enjoyed our Candy Cane Village!

 

December 13, 2024

 

A Week of Festivity and Excellence at Fairfax High! 

What an exciting week it's been at Fairfax! We kicked things off with our Sounds of the Season Winter Band Concert, and I couldn’t be prouder of our band— they were absolutely PAWSome! 

Do you hear what I hear? It could be the Fairfax Choir as they continue to perform within the halls, at local events, and private residences. We are so excited to share student talent with the community. 

During Lion Time, we hosted our Candy Cane Club Village, where students came together to enjoy festive songs, tasty snacks, and plenty of spirited fun. The energy was contagious, and it was a great way to celebrate our clubs and the holiday season in a fun, new way. 

Our Fairfax Academy students truly warmed up the stage with their outstanding performance of Disney songs during their Cabaret. Their talent and enthusiasm brought the house down.

Today, we were thrilled to honor over 100 students at our Lions on the Rise event, celebrating their academic achievements and contributions to our community. It was a true treat to see so many families joining us for this special occasion.

Tonight, our FHS Theater program will also host a Winter CollaBRRet and preview their VHSL One Act Play.  Fairfax Leadership will also sponsor a toy drive during our Boys Basketball Home Opener.

As we wrap up this week of celebrations, I’m reminded of how lucky we are to have such a vibrant, supportive, and talented community at FHS. 

Thank you for being part of our success and JOY!

  🦁 Lions on the Rise!    Included in this issue:

 

Student Spotlight

• Questbridge Scholarship Recipients

School Spotlight

• FHS Teaches English to Parents After School
• Code Across America Week

Calendar Reminders:

• Christmas, December 25
• Chanukah: Begins Sundown, December 25

Fairfax Lions Need to Know:

• Special Education Resources
• 2025-26 FAFSA Form Now Available
• Preparing for Winter Weather
• Winter Resources 
• Junior College Night - NEW Date

Fairfax Lions Nice to Know:

• Mental Health Teletherapy
• Student Services Updates
• Do You want to be a Science Fair Judge?
• Academy Open Houses Begin in January
• District News - In Case You Missed It
• Quick Links

Fairfax HS PTSA

• Community Meetings on the Comprehensive Boundary Review
• What is Saturday School?
• No-Fuss Fundraiser

Student Spotlight Questbridge Scholarship Recipients

 

We are ecstatic to announce that THREE of our seniors received the prestigious QuestBridge Scholarship and matched with some of the nation’s most selective colleges and universities. Our students were selected from an applicant pool of more than 25,500 students nationwide. The QuestBridge National College Match is a scholarship program for seniors who have excelled academically, despite financial or personal circumstances, and have demonstrated evidence of strong writing ability, intellectual spark, determination and extracurricular involvement.  Each Match Scholarship is worth over $325,000 and covers the full cost of attendance, including tuition, housing and food, books and supplies, and travel expenses.  Three winners is a school record and we are so proud of the following students:

• Lynn Choi – University of Virginia
• David Kim – Princeton University
• Hani Moudarres – University of Virginia

For more information on QuestBridge, see:  https://www.questbridge.org/

The QuestBridge College Prep Scholarship Program application for the Class of 2026 will open in spring 2025 and the National Scholarship Match application will be due in late September 2025.  For more information, contact: Maureen Kim, FHS College & Career Specialist, at [email protected].

Congratulations to our winners and their families!

School Spotlight Dr. Aye Teaches English Classes for Spanish-Speaking Parents

 

Every Wednesday after school, a special class takes place at Fairfax High School. The students are parents, eager to learn a new language and skills to help them support their children’s education. Principal Georgina Aye is one of the dedicated teachers. 

These classes are the heart of Fairfax High School’s Family Engagement Center, a vibrant space dedicated to empowering families and fostering a strong sense of community. Fairfax’s Family Engagement Center is building a bridge between families and the school, creating a shared space for learning, support, and community. Read more and see the video about the English literacy parent program. 

✨ Building trusting partnerships between home and school is Pillar B of the FCPS Strategic Plan. 

Code Across America Week

The week of December 9-15 is Code Across America week. Notable items from this week at FHS include:

Thursday 12/5: Computer Science Honor Society members put together a display in the front foyer celebrating coding and computer science.

Friday 12/6: Cyberpatriot club was awarded a grant from EducateFairfax of $900 to cover 4 competition team registrations at $225 each.  We thank them for their support in aiding students to learn curriculum outside the scope of what is taught in classes.

Monday 12/9: Computer Science Data Structures classes were visited by CodeHS speakers and students learned about CS careers and CS adjacent careers. They also led an “hour of code” in class to introduce students to the idea of blockchain technology and hashing concepts.

Thursday 12/12: The CS Honor Society led an hour of code event with activities at beginner and intermediate levels to promote all students being introduced to coding. We would like to thank the outgoing officers: Shubha Udipi, Yousif Al Atbi, Abenezer Gelashe, Rohan Soma and Peter Choi for leading that and all they have done in 2024 for CSHS.  We would also like to congratulate the new officers for 2025:  Rohan Desai (President), Arhan Desai (VP), Neha Puthalapat (VP), Khalid Amikishiyev (Treasurer) and Mayar Al Atbi (Secretary).

Monday 12/16: Girls Who Code will be taking a trip to Katherine Johnson  MS to conduct hour of code.

🗓️Calendar Reminders 🎄Christmas, Dec. 25

 

A very Merry Christmas to those in our community who celebrate! Christmas is an annual holiday that commemorates the birth of Jesus of Nazareth, the person who stands at the heart of the Christian tradition. It is celebrated in many unique ways across the U.S. and the world, most commonly by the joyous giving of gifts. #OurFCPS 

SPANISH:🎄 ¡Feliz Navidad a los miembros de nuestra comunidad que la celebran! La Navidad es una fiesta anual que conmemora el nacimiento de Jesús de Nazaret, la persona que se encuentra en el corazón de la tradición cristiana. Se celebra de muchas maneras únicas en todo Estados Unidos y el mundo, más comúnmente por la alegre entrega de regalos. #SomosFCPS

KOREAN: 🎄 크리스마스를 맞이하는 모든 분들께 메리 크리스마스! 크리스마스는 기독교 전통으로, 나사렛 예수의 탄생을 기념하는 연례 휴일입니다. 크리스마스는 미국과 전 세계에서 여러가지 특별한 방식으로 이날을 기념하며, 흔하게는 선물을 주고받으며 기쁨을 나눕니다.  #OurFCPS

https://www.fcps.edu/calendars/standard-school-year-calendar

🕎 Chanukah, Sundown, December 25

 

Chanukah, an 8-day Festival of Lights, is a Jewish holiday commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple and the miracle of a small quantity of oil that lit the Temple’s menorah for 8 days. This year, Chanukah begins at sundown on Wednesday, December 25. See the complete school year calendar.

Spanish:"Chanukah/Janúca""Chanukah/Janucá" la Fiesta de las Luces, es una celebración Judía que dura 8 días la cual conmemora la reedificación del Templo Sagrado y el milagro de una pequeña cantidad de aceite que encendió la menorá del Templo. Este año, Chanukah/Janucá comienza al anochecer del Miércoles 25 de Diciembre. Vea el calendario completo del año escolar.

Korean: 하누카8일간 이뤄지는 빛의 축제인 하누카는, 8일 동안 메노라를 밝히는 지속된 소량의 기름 기적과 성전봉헌절을 기념하는 유대인의 명절입니다. 올해 하누카는 12월 25일 수요일 해 질 녘에 시작됩니다. 이날은 반나절 동안 진행되며, 당일 저녁에는 주요 행사를 진행할 수 없습니다. 내셔널 지오그래픽 키즈를 통해 하누카에 대해 자세히 알아보세요. 전체 학년도 일정을 확인하세요.

Fairfax Lions Need to Know: Special Education Resources

Winter Special Education and 504 Newsletter

The latest issue of the FCPS Special Education and 504 Newsletter is available online. Topics in this issue include:

• Community Resources for Families of Students with Disabilities
• Save the Date: 2025 Family Summit
• SEL Screener Results
• New Accessibility Resources
• Adapted Physical Education and Recreation Program
• Why Some Students with Disabilities Stay in FCPS Until Age 22
• VR Programs Supports Out-of-State Post Secondary Schools
• Executive Functioning Webinars
• Early Literacy Resources
• ESY and Assessment Webinar
• COVID-19 Compensatory Education: FCPS Service Delivery Options

Subscribe to the Special Education and 504 Newsletter. 

 

Spanish: Boletín de Invierno de Educación Especial y 504El boletín más reciente de Educación Especial y 504 está disponible en línea. Los temas de este número incluyen: 

• Recursos Comunitarios para Familias de Estudiantes con Discapacidades
• Reserve la fecha: Conferencia para Familias 2025
• Resultados de la encuesta SEL
• Nuevos recursos de accesibilidad
• Educación Física Adaptada y Programa de Recreación
• Por qué algunos estudiantes con discapacidades se quedan en FCPS hasta los 22 años
• Programas de VR Apoya Escuelas Post Secundarias Fuera del Estado
• Webinarios de Funcionamiento Ejecutivo
• Recursos de Alfabetización Temprana
• Webinario de ESY y Evaluación
• Educación Compensatoria de COVID-19: Opciones de Prestación de Servicios de FCPS

Suscríbase al Boletín de Educación Especial y 504.

2025-26 FAFSA Form Now Available

The 2025-26 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is now available. Any college-bound high school senior — regardless of income — who wants to be considered for federal, state, and school financial aid programs should complete a FAFSA form. 

Parents and caregivers are encouraged to work with their children to complete the FAFSA as early as possible. Check each college’s financial aid office webpage for deadlines and financial aid forms. Then, create an account, if you have not already done so, and fill out the FAFSA.

The Virginia Alternative State Aid (VASA) application will be available in late January for students who are unable to complete the FAFSA. To help determine which aid option is right for you, visit the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia website.

Get Help Filling out FAFSA From College Access Fairfax

Over the next few months, College Access Fairfax will be offering several programs on completing the FAFSA/VASA and finding and applying for scholarships. Get information on these programs and how to access them on the College Access Fairfax website.

In addition, College Access Fairfax staff are available for virtual one-on-one help sessions to complete the FAFSA/VASA. To request an appointment, families should email [email protected].

 

Spanish: Ya está disponible el formulario FAFSA 2025-26

La Solicitud Gratuita de Ayuda Federal para Estudiantes (FAFSA) 2025-26 ya está disponible. Cualquier estudiante de último año de secundaria que vaya a la universidad - independientemente de sus ingresos - que quiera ser considerado para los programas de ayuda financiera federal, estatal y escolar debe completar un formulario FAFSA.

Se anima a los padres y tutores a trabajar con sus hijos para completar la solicitud de FAFSA lo antes posible. Consulte la página web de la oficina de ayuda financiera de cada universidad para conocer los plazos y los formularios de ayuda financiera. A continuación, cree una cuenta, si aún no lo ha hecho, y complete la FAFSA.

La solicitud de Ayuda Estatal Alternativa de Virginia (VASA) estará disponible a finales de enero para los estudiantes que no puedan completar la FAFSA. Para ayudarte a determinar qué opción de ayuda es la más adecuada para ti, visita el sitio web del Consejo Estatal de Educación Superior de Virginia.

Obtenga ayuda para llenar la FAFSA de College Access Fairfax

En los próximos meses, College Access Fairfax ofrecerá varios programas sobre cómo llenar la FAFSA/VASA y cómo encontrar y solicitar becas. Obtenga información sobre estos programas y cómo acceder a ellos en el sitio web de College Access Fairfax.Además, el personal de College Access Fairfax está disponible para sesiones virtuales de ayuda individual para completar la FAFSA/VASA. Para solicitar una cita, las familias deben enviar un correo electrónico a [email protected].

❄️ Preparing for Winter Weather!

Winter weather will be here before you know it! Watch this video to see how weather-related closing decisions are made.

FCPS’ website is generally the first place to find out about emergency weather closings. Other communication channels will be used as quickly as possible including email, text, social media, and news stations. Learn more about how schedule changes are communicated. 

Be sure to plan for the winter season. Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE, bookmark the FCPS website, and arrange for childcare if needed.

Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

We will monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories which may prevent children from being outside. Make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy their time outdoors. See the National Weather Service’s tips on staying safe during cold weather.

If you need assistance supplying your child with cold-weather clothing, please call Fairfax County's Coordinated Services Planning at 703-222-0880. Their multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health care.

Winter Resources from Fairfax County Agencies 🍲 Food Assistance and Resource Guide

Food insecurity impacts more than 96,000 Fairfax County residents. There are many resources available to support those who need food assistance. Learn how to help these families and the many resources available to support those who need food assistance on Fairfax County’s website or view the county’s Human Services Resource Guide.

📚 Bundle Up With Books Over Break

Fairfax County Public Library’s (FCPL) winter reading adventure has begun and will continue through Friday, January 31, 2025. Visit your local FCPL library branch or visit their website to register and get a sneak peek at the prizes being offered.

Check out their Winter Reading Events webpage to learn about laser tag, movie nights, crafting sessions, Noon-Year Eve celebrations, and book discussions.

⛄ Get Outdoors for Winter Fun!

The Fairfax County Park Authority has rounded up its seasonal fun into a handy list of events happening across the county. 

Learn more about the Winter Wonderland and the Holiday Train at Burke Lake Park, Holiday on the Farm at Frying Pan Farm Park, and many more fun events.

Junior College Night - NEW Date

 

Mark your calendars and please plan to attend…

 

Junior College Planning Night

for juniors and their parents/guardians

Tuesday, January 14, 2025 @ 7:00 pm

Fairfax High School Auditorium

 

We are almost halfway through junior year, so it is time to start thinking ahead to the college admissions process!! This year’s format will be an in person, panel discussion and will be targeted to juniors who are interested in attending a four-year college or university. Four, very experienced College Admissions Officers will share valuable advice for your college search.  We plan to ask important questions about research, preparation, applications, acceptance and making the final decision. We’ll wrap up with Q&A time dedicated to answering all of your admissions-related questions.

All juniors interested in attending a four-year college or university are encouraged to attend!

Note: The format of this event is a panel discussion and will not be recorded.  If you cannot attend on January 14, you are welcome to go to Chantilly HS on Monday, January 13 @ 7:00 pm, or Madison HS on Wednesday, January 15 @ 7:00 pm.  It will be the same exact program with the same speakers. 

For more information, contact: Ms. Maureen Kim, Fairfax HS College & Career Specialist at [email protected], or 703-219-2204. 

See the full flyer: Junior College Night Flyer 2025.pdf

Fairfax Lions Nice to Know:  💻 No-Cost Mental Health Teletherapy for All High School Students

Is your high schooler experiencing anxiety, behavior changes, or challenges with peer and family relationships? If so, you may refer your child for weekly therapy with a licensed therapist through Hazel Health. Visit the Teletherapy webpage for information on this service. 

Student Services Updates

 

Academic Advising Important Dates

FHS Academic Advising School Information - More information to come before break!

January 7 & 8: Teachers present options for students during class time.

January 9: Curriculum Fair (During Lion Time) and Curriculum Fair, 6-8pm (All are welcome!)

January 14 & 15: Students meet individually with teachers to review class options.

January 21 - March 3: Individual academic advising meetings with counselors through English class:

• Rising 12 Grade Students (Class of 2026): Jan. 21 - Jan. 31
• Rising 11th Grade Students (Class of 2027): Feb 3 - Feb. 12 (AP Seminar 10 students - Feb. 20 & 21)
• Rising 10th Grade Students (Class of 2028): Feb. 13 - Mar. 3

June 6, 2025: Last day to make changes to course request

 

Fairfax High School Grading Timeline

January 28: End of Quarter/SIS ParentVUE Closes

January 29: Teacher Workday

February 4: SIS ParentVUE Opens

 

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener Results Now Available

Students in grades 3-12 took the SEL Screener during the month of October, providing information on their SEL skills like achieving goals, understanding and managing emotions, establishing and maintaining relationships, and making responsible decisions. The screener also asks students how well their school community makes them feel valued, included, and supported.

Individual student SEL Screener results are now available to families in the Documents section of SIS ParentVUE. For families who do not have an active ParentVUE account, results will be sent via postal mail.

For support in understanding your individual student’s results or for ideas on how to support them at home, please review the Family Guide or reach out to your child’s counselor with any questions.

 

2025 FCPS Gap Year Fair

FCPS’ School Counseling Services and Go Overseas are co-hosting the annual FCPS Gap Year Fair on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at George C. Marshall High School from 6:00-8:30 p.m. This event is for high school students and parents who are interested in learning more about the growing array of gap year opportunities. The evening will begin with a presentation in the auditorium from 6:00-6:45 p.m. Immediately following, the program fair will be held in the cafeteria from 6:45-8:30 p.m., with representatives from over 30 programs offering gap year opportunities. Students and their families are encouraged to meet the representatives and learn about the variety of experiences available. 

Students are encouraged to pre-register for this event. For more information, visit: USA Gap Year Fairs.

**In the event of inclement weather on Tuesday, January 28, 2025: The Gap Year Fair will be held on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at the same time and location.

https://fairfaxhs.fcps.edu/student-services

Science Fair Judges Needed!

Are you a scientist, engineer, or science enthusiast?

Do you have a passion for discovery and helping students shine?

We're looking for volunteer judges to evaluate projects at our Fairfax HS Science Fair on February 1, 2025!

Your expertise, enthusiasm and constructive feedback can make a lasting impact on budding, young scientists.

SIGN UP TODAY!

📧 Email us at [email protected]

🌐 Register online - follow the link or QR Code: https://forms.gle/azrkLQnpfZgazirX9  

Thank you for your support!

🗓️ Save the Date: Academy Open Houses Begin in January!

FCPS high school academies will hold open houses for interested students beginning in January.

A high school academy is a center within a high school that offers advanced technical and specialized courses to prepare students for postsecondary education and/or career fields. Students enrolling in academy elective courses will be provided with opportunities to participate in a variety of career experiences including shadowing, mentoring, or internships with local businesses.

Chantilly Academy: January 8

Fairfax Academy: February 4

Falls Church Academy: January 9

Learn more: https://bit.ly/41vtnk1 or visit fcps.edu and search for “Academies and Specialized Programs."

District News - In Case You Missed It

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• Course Selection for Middle and High School Students
• Join Our Teacher Team!
• Comprehensive Boundary Review Updates

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.  

 

Spanish: En caso de que se lo haya perdido en FCPS This Week, la división escolar compartió actualizaciones sobre los siguientes temas y otros:

• Selección de cursos para estudiantes de las Escuelas Intermedias y Secundarias
• Únase a nuestro equipo de maestros
• Reuniones de revisión de límites

Lea FCPS Esta Semana para aprender más sobre estos temas. Si aún no recibe este boletín semanal, suscríbase hoy mismo. 

Quick Links

• Fairfax HS Academy
• Educate Fairfax 
• FCPS Family Academy
• Family Resource Center
• FCPS CARES
• FCPS News
• Job Openings
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• SIS ParentVUE
• Standard School Year Calendar

throughout the year:

• Visit the Fairfax High School Website
• Visit the Fairfax PTSA Website
• Sign up for News You Choose messages or update your account

Fairfax HS PTSA Table of Contents:

• Community Meetings on the Comprehensive Boundary Review
• What is Saturday School?
• No-Fuss Fundraiser

Community Boundary Review Meetings

 

If you did not get a chance to attend one of the recent community meetings on the Comprehensive Boundary Review, please consider attending the final meeting in this first phase of the boundary review process. The Region 1 meeting will take place Wednesday, December 18, 6:30-8 p.m.,in the Madison High School cafeteria. Register today. If you are unable to participate, stay tuned for details about virtual Community Boundary Review Meetings coming early next year.

View FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage for more information. Sign up for FCPS’ School Boundary Review newsletter as well.

Spanish:Reuniones Comunitarias sobre la Revisión Integral de LímitesSi usted no tuvo la oportunidad de asistir a una de las recientes reuniones de la Comunidad sobre la Revisión Integral de Límites, por favor considere asistir a la reunión final en esta primera fase de la Revisión Integral de Límites. La reunión de la Región 1 tendrá lugar el miércoles 18 de diciembre, de 6:30 a 8 p.m., en la cafetería de la Escuela Secundaria de Madison. Inscríbase hoy mismo. Si no puede unirse a nosotros, manténgase al tanto de los detalles sobre las Reuniones de Revisión de Límites Comunitarios virtuales que vendrán a principios del próximo año.Vea la página web de Revisión Comprensiva de Límites de FCPS para aprender más sobre el proceso de revisión de límites. Inscríbase para recibir nuestro boletín de la Revisión de Límites Escolares también.

What is Saturday School?

 

Students - picture a relaxed setting where you can catch up on subjects or ask questions without the usual class rush. Saturday School provides a calm atmosphere for focused learning. If you're feeling a bit overwhelmed with assignments, Saturday School is an excellent time to seek assistance. Teachers will be available to guide you through any challenges you're facing. Take advantage of this extra time, recover some of your course work and attendance concerns. 

Quarter 2 Dates

December 14 January 11 January 18 January 25

No sign up needed! Students report to the LIBRARY from 9AM to 12PM. 

Snacks provided. No transportation provided.

Please Note: There is NO Saturday School on December 21. 

No-Fuss Fundraiser

Support our FHS Students and Teachers with your generous donations! Our No-Fuss Fundraiser has a goal of $2200 to fully fund the proposed 24-25 PTSA budget. The Parent, Teacher, Student Association supports FHS students and teachers through financing events and supporting wellness, diversity, and volunteerism. 

The PTSA rewards academic achievement, offers student scholarships, funds classroom grants, puts on teacher appreciation events, and supports the FHS Food Bank. We rely entirely on membership dues and donations to fund the PTSA budget, and as a 501(c)3, your DONATION is tax-deductible. For details on how the funds are spent, see the proposed budget online: https://www.fairfaxptsa.org/board/bylaws-budget

Do you want to celebrate a Fairfax employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way? Or goes beyond what is expected? If so, then click here to share with everyone.

3501 Lion Run Fairfax, VA 22030  | Main Office: 703-219-2200

Attendance: 703-219-2211| Web

 

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

Table of Contents:

• Save the Date - Cultural Celebration Auditions! 
• Saturday School
• Join or Donate Today!
• No Fuss Fundraiser
• Upcoming Events

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Cultural Celebration Auditions

 

STUDENTS! Be a part of the FHS Annual Cultural Celebration‼️Perform a dance, sing a song, play a musical instrument - perform anything to share and celebrate the diverse cultures here at Fairfax.

Auditions are Wednesday, Jan. 15th at 3pm in the school Cafeteria.

In order to sign up, you must join the Schoology Group: MP2H-85M8-2ZQC5

Follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/fhs.culturalcelebration/

If you have any questions contact Mrs. Chae: [email protected]

What is Saturday School?

 

Students - picture a relaxed setting where you can catch up on subjects or ask questions without the usual class rush. Saturday School provides a calm atmosphere for focused learning. If you're feeling a bit overwhelmed with assignments, Saturday School is an excellent time to seek assistance. Teachers will be available to guide you through any challenges you're facing. Take advantage of this extra time, recover some of your course work and attendance concerns. 

Quarter 2 Dates

December 14
January 11
January 18
January 25

No sign up needed! Students report to the LIBRARY from 9AM to 12PM. 

Snacks provided. No transportation provided.

📝Never Too Late to JOIN PTSA 

 

JOIN the PTSA to support our FHS teachers, students and community! Your member dues and donations work to fund all of our activities and programs, help keep you engaged and informed about what is happening in our school community and provide opportunities to get involved if your time permits.  

No-Fuss Fundraiser

Support our FHS Students and Teachers with your generous donations! Our No-Fuss Fundraiser has a goal of $2200 to fully fund the proposed 24-25 PTSA budget. The Parent, Teacher, Student Association supports FHS students and teachers through financing events and supporting wellness, diversity, and volunteerism. 

The PTSA rewards academic achievement, offers student scholarships, funds classroom grants, puts on teacher appreciation events, and supports the FHS Food Bank. We rely entirely on membership dues and donations to fund the PTSA budget, and as a 501(c)3, your DONATION is tax-deductible. For details on how the funds are spent, see the proposed budget online: https://www.fairfaxptsa.org/board/bylaws-budget

December 10: Winter Band Concert, 7pm

December 12: Academy MTAS Cabaret, 7pm

December 13: FX Players CollaBRRRet, and VHSL One Act Preview; 6:30pm

December 18: American Red Cross School Blood Drive

December 23 - Jan 3: FCPS Winter Break, All Schools Closed

January 6: Classes Resume, Blue Day

3501 Lion Run Fairfax, VA 22030  | Main Office: 703-219-2200

Attendance: 703-219-2211| Web

 

Upcoming Events

December 6: NOVA Wrestling Classic, all day

December 10: Winter Band Concert, 7pm

December 12: Academy MTAS Cabaret, 7pm

December 13: FX Players CollaBRRRet, 6:30pm

December 23 - Jan 3: FCPS Winter Break, All Schools Closed

January 6: Classes Resume, Blue Day

January 7-8: Academic Emphasis

January 9: Curriculum Fair

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

 

December 6, 2024

December to Remember Kicks Off at FHS!

Fairfax High School is off to a PAWSome start this December! Our student equity team has been hard at work, leading powerful lessons for our 9th-grade students on how to be an upstander when they see something wrong. We're incredibly proud of their commitment to creating a positive and inclusive school environment.

The excitement doesn't stop there! This week, we were thrilled to host our friends from Katherine Johnson Middle School for a fantastic pyramid orchestra concert. The beautiful music brought our schools together and showcased the incredible talent of our young musicians. We also spotted the PAWSitively dynamic FHS Chorus out and about spreading the sounds of the season through carols. 

Seniors are abuzz with excitement as college acceptances and scholarship recognitions start rolling in! We're so proud of all their hard work and can't wait to see what the future holds for each of them. A big shout-out to all of our Lions who took the ASVAB this week. We applaud your dedication to exploring future opportunities.

FHS is thrilled to be a lighthouse school, leading the way in exploring how AI prompting can enhance teaching and learning in the classroom. We're eager to see how this innovative technology can benefit both our teachers and students. 

Stay tuned for more exciting events and activities throughout December. 

 

  Included in this issue:

 

Student Spotlight

• Scholarship Recipient! 

Calendar Reminders:

• Bhodi Day, Dec. 8 
• Saturday School Days for Second Quarter

• End of Quarter/SIS ParentVUE Closes: January 28

• Teacher Workday: January 29

• SIS ParentVUE Opens: February

Fairfax Lions Need to Know:

• Preparing for Winter Weather
• 2025-26 FAFSA Form Now Available
• Winter Resources 

Fairfax Lions Nice to Know:

• Mental Health Teletherapy
• NOVA Wrestling Classic - Donations Needed! 
• Do You want to be a Science Fair Judge?
• Quick Links

Fairfax HS PTSA

• City of Fairfax ArtScreen: Spirited Away
• Join the PTSA or Donate Today

🗓️Calendar Reminders Bodhi Day, Dec. 8

 

Bodhi Day, Friday, December 8, is the Buddhist holiday that commemorates the day that the historical Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama (Shakyamuni), experienced enlightenment, also known as bodhi in Sanskrit and Pali. 

See the complete school year calendar.

Saturday School Dates

No sign up needed! Students report to the library from 9AM to 12PM. Snacks provided. 

NO transportation provided.

Quarter 2 Dates:
December 7, 14
January 11, 18, 25

Fairfax Lions Need to Know: ❄️ Preparing for Winter Weather!

Winter weather will be here before you know it! Watch this video to see how weather-related closing decisions are made.

FCPS’ website is generally the first place to find out about emergency weather closings. Other communication channels will be used as quickly as possible including email, text, social media, and news stations. Learn more about how schedule changes are communicated. 

Be sure to plan for the winter season. Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE, bookmark the FCPS website, and arrange for childcare if needed.

Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

We will monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories which may prevent children from being outside. Make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy their time outdoors. See the National Weather Service’s tips on staying safe during cold weather.

If you need assistance supplying your child with cold-weather clothing, please call Fairfax County's Coordinated Services Planning at 703-222-0880. Their multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health care.

2025-26 FAFSA Form Now Available

The 2025-26 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is now available. Any college-bound high school senior — regardless of income — who wants to be considered for federal, state, and school financial aid programs should complete a FAFSA form. 

Parents and caregivers are encouraged to work with their children to complete the FAFSA as early as possible. Check each college’s financial aid office webpage for deadlines and financial aid forms. Then, create an account, if you have not already done so, and fill out the FAFSA.

The Virginia Alternative State Aid (VASA) application will be available in late January for students who are unable to complete the FAFSA. To help determine which aid option is right for you, visit the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia website.

Get Help Filling out FAFSA From College Access Fairfax

Over the next few months, College Access Fairfax will be offering several programs on completing the FAFSA/VASA and finding and applying for scholarships. Get information on these programs and how to access them on the College Access Fairfax website.

In addition, College Access Fairfax staff are available for virtual one-on-one help sessions to complete the FAFSA/VASA. To request an appointment, families should email [email protected].

 

Spanish: Ya está disponible el formulario FAFSA 2025-26La Solicitud Gratuita de Ayuda Federal para Estudiantes (FAFSA) 2025-26 ya está disponible. Cualquier estudiante de último año de secundaria que vaya a la universidad - independientemente de sus ingresos - que quiera ser considerado para los programas de ayuda financiera federal, estatal y escolar debe completar un formulario FAFSA.

Se anima a los padres y tutores a trabajar con sus hijos para completar la solicitud de FAFSA lo antes posible. Consulte la página web de la oficina de ayuda financiera de cada universidad para conocer los plazos y los formularios de ayuda financiera. A continuación, cree una cuenta, si aún no lo ha hecho, y complete la FAFSA.

La solicitud de Ayuda Estatal Alternativa de Virginia (VASA) estará disponible a finales de enero para los estudiantes que no puedan completar la FAFSA. Para ayudarte a determinar qué opción de ayuda es la más adecuada para ti, visita el sitio web del Consejo Estatal de Educación Superior de Virginia.

Obtenga ayuda para llenar la FAFSA de College Access Fairfax

En los próximos meses, College Access Fairfax ofrecerá varios programas sobre cómo llenar la FAFSA/VASA y cómo encontrar y solicitar becas. Obtenga información sobre estos programas y cómo acceder a ellos en el sitio web de College Access Fairfax.Además, el personal de College Access Fairfax está disponible para sesiones virtuales de ayuda individual para completar la FAFSA/VASA. Para solicitar una cita, las familias deben enviar un correo electrónico a [email protected].

2025 FCPS Gap Year Fair

FCPS’ School Counseling Services and Go Overseas are co-hosting the annual FCPS Gap Year Fair on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at George C. Marshall High School from 6:00-8:30 p.m. This event is for high school students and parents who are interested in learning more about the growing array of gap year opportunities. The evening will begin with a presentation in the auditorium from 6:00-6:45 p.m. Immediately following, the program fair will be held in the cafeteria from 6:45-8:30 p.m., with representatives from over 30 programs offering gap year opportunities. Students and their families are encouraged to meet the representatives and learn about the variety of experiences available. 

Students are encouraged to pre-register for this event. For more information, visit: USA Gap Year Fairs.

 

**In the event of inclement weather on Tuesday, January 28, 2025: The Gap Year Fair will be held on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at the same time and location.

Winter Resources from Fairfax County Agencies 🍲 Food Assistance and Resource Guide

Food insecurity impacts more than 96,000 Fairfax County residents. There are many resources available to support those who need food assistance. Learn how to help these families and the many resources available to support those who need food assistance on Fairfax County’s website or view the county’s Human Services Resource Guide.

📚 Bundle Up With Books Over Break

Fairfax County Public Library’s (FCPL) winter reading adventure has begun and will continue through Friday, January 31, 2025. Visit your local FCPL library branch or visit their website to register and get a sneak peek at the prizes being offered.

Check out their Winter Reading Events webpage to learn about laser tag, movie nights, crafting sessions, Noon-Year Eve celebrations, and book discussions.

⛄ Get Outdoors for Winter Fun!

The Fairfax County Park Authority has rounded up its seasonal fun into a handy list of events happening across the county. 

Learn more about the Winter Wonderland and the Holiday Train at Burke Lake Park, Holiday on the Farm at Frying Pan Farm Park, and many more fun events.

Fairfax Lions Nice to Know:  💻 No-Cost Mental Health Teletherapy for All High School Students

Is your high schooler experiencing anxiety, behavior changes, or challenges with peer and family relationships? If so, you may refer your child for weekly therapy with a licensed therapist through Hazel Health. Visit the Teletherapy webpage for information on this service. 

NOVA Wrestling Classic - Donations Needed!

 

Hey, Fairfax, we need your help! Fairfax High School is again hosting the NOVA Wrestling Classic on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7. This tournament involves 32 schools and over 400 wrestlers and the proceeds from this tournament benefit ALL Fairfax HS Athletic teams! Fairfax will host a Hospitality Room to feed the Referees, Athletic Trainers, Coaches, and Tournament Staff. We are asking for help in providing food donations for lunch and dinner on Friday. If you are able, please consider donating to this hospitality room!

Please use this SIGN-UP GENIUS to donate, but we can accept any and all donations not included on the sign-up. 

Here are some suggestions, but ANY type of food donation is GREATLY appreciated!

• Main Dish items: Burritos, Chicken Wings/Nuggets/Tenders, Pizza, Pasta, BBQ, Meatballs, Casseroles, Sandwiches, Hotdogs/Hamburgers,  Lunch meat sandwiches in baggies, etc.
• Salads: Tossed, Pasta, Potato, Jello, Fruit, Tuna, Chicken, Cole Slaw, etc; also Fresh Fruit or Veggie Trays
• Side Dish Items: Baked Beans, Green Beans, Rice/Rice Dishes, Mac & Cheese, Mashed Potatoes, etc.
• Baked Potato Bar: 25+ Baked Potatoes already baked and individually wrapped in foil, plus fixings such as butter, sour cream, bacon bits, etc.
• Fresh Fruit: Bananas, Apples, Oranges, Grapes, etc.
• Desserts: Cookies, Brownies, Cupcakes, etc.
• Breakfast Foods: Bagels & Cream Cheese, Muffins, Donuts, Fruit, Juice
• Cases of Water

Again, please note that the proceeds from this tournament benefit ALL Fairfax HS Athletic Teams!!!

If you are able and willing to donate to our event, we would greatly appreciate it!  For any donations, please deliver the items to the Field House concession stand or Auxiliary Gym on Friday, December 6, 2024 (before, during, and/or after school, 7:00am-4:00pm). Label all dishes, which will be available for pick up from the concession stand on Monday, December 9, 2024.

If you have any questions, please feel free to email Cathy Horacek at: [email protected]. 

Thank you in advance for supporting the Fairfax Athletics!

Science Fair Judges Needed!

Are you a scientist, engineer, or science enthusiast?

Do you have a passion for discovery and helping students shine?

We're looking for volunteer judges to evaluate projects at our Fairfax HS Science Fair on February 1, 2025!

Your expertise, enthusiasm and constructive feedback can make a lasting impact on budding, young scientists.

SIGN UP TODAY!

📧 Email us at [email protected]

🌐 Register online - follow the link or QR Code: https://forms.gle/azrkLQnpfZgazirX9  

Thank you for your support!

District News - In Case You Missed It

• In case you missed it in FCPS This Week - Dec. 4, 2024, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:
• Family Academy Orientation
• Literacy Resources
• Winter Programs and Activities

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.  

Quick Links

• Fairfax HS Academy
• Educate Fairfax 
• FCPS Family Academy
• Family Resource Center
• FCPS CARES
• FCPS News
• Job Openings
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• SIS ParentVUE
• Standard School Year Calendar

throughout the year:

• Visit the Fairfax High School Website
• Sign up for News You Choose messages or update your account
• Visit the Fairfax PTSA Website

Fairfax HS PTSA Table of Contents:

• Mental Health Teletherapy
• Join the PTSA or Donate Today

Dec. 6 @ Sherwood: City of Fairfax ArtScreen shows Spirited Away

 

ARTScreen celebrates the arts with a Free film series on Friday evenings in the City of Fairfax. Complimentary popcorn, candy & refreshments!

Join us tonight, Dec. 6, for Spirited Away: (2001) PG – During her family’s move to the suburbs, a sullen 10-year-old girl wanders into a world ruled by gods, witches and spirits, and where humans are changed into beasts. An anime film.  Doors open at 6:30pm • Film starts at 7:00pm

https://www.fairfaxva.gov/government/parks-recreation/cultural-arts

Join or Donate Today!

JOIN the PTSA to support our FHS teachers, students and community!  Your member dues and donations work to fund all of our activities and programs, help keep you engaged and informed about what is happening in our school community and provide opportunities to get involved if your time permits.  

Parent/Adult: $20, Teacher/Staff: $12, FHS Student: $8.

Do you want to celebrate a Fairfax employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way? Or goes beyond what is expected? If so, then click here to share with everyone.

3501 Lion Run Fairfax, VA 22030  | Main Office: 703-219-2200

Attendance: 703-219-2211| Web

 

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Table of Contents:

• Be a Science Fair Judge!
• Join or Donate Today!
• No Fuss Fundraiser
• Upcoming Events

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Be A Science Fair Judge!

 

Are you a scientist, engineer, or science enthusiast?

Do you have a passion for discovery and helping students shine?

We're looking for volunteer judges to evaluate projects at our Fairfax HS Science Fair on February 1, 2025!

Your expertise, enthusiasm and constructive feedback can make a lasting impact on budding, young scientists.

SIGN UP TODAY!

📧 Email us at [email protected]

🌐 Register online - follow the link or QR Code: https://forms.gle/azrkLQnpfZgazirX9  

Thank you for your support!

📝Never Too Late to JOIN PTSA 

 

JOIN the PTSA to support our FHS teachers, students and community! Your member dues and donations work to fund all of our activities and programs, help keep you engaged and informed about what is happening in our school community and provide opportunities to get involved if your time permits.  

No-Fuss Fundraiser

Support our FHS Students and Teachers with your generous donations! Our No-Fuss Fundraiser has a goal of $2200 to fully fund the proposed 24-25 PTSA budget. The Parent, Teacher, Student Association supports FHS students and teachers through financing events and supporting wellness, diversity, and volunteerism. 

The PTSA rewards academic achievement, offers student scholarships, funds classroom grants, puts on teacher appreciation events, and supports the FHS Food Bank. We rely entirely on membership dues and donations to fund the PTSA budget, and as a 501(c)3, your DONATION is tax-deductible. For details on how the funds are spent, see the proposed budget online: https://www.fairfaxptsa.org/board/bylaws-budget

December 5: Orchestra Pyramid Concert, 7pm

December 6: NOVA Wrestling Classic, all day

December 10: Winter Band Concert, 7pm

December 12: Academy MTAS Cabaret, 7pm

December 13: FX Players CollaBRRRet, 6:30pm

December 23 - Jan 3: FCPS Winter Break, All Schools Closed

January 6: Classes Resume, Blue Day

3501 Lion Run Fairfax, VA 22030  | Main Office: 703-219-2200

Attendance: 703-219-2211| Web