WSHS Weekly Newsletter 04/20/2021

Calendar of Events


For the most up to date calendar please see our master calendar here.

Save the Dates:

April 20                    All Night Grad Party Meeting, 7pm

April 26                    Junior Planning Day

May 3-7                   Teacher Appreciation Week

May 11                    PTSA Virtual Meeting, 7:30pm

May 31                    Memorial Day Holiday

June 1                     Graduation Day at Jiffy Lube Live, 9:30am

June 11                   Last Day of School; Early Release Day

 

Check out the latest important information in our

Virtual Learning Newsletter

https://westspringfieldhs.fcps.edu/node/4191

 


Reminders


Purple Up! on Wednesday for Military families.

 

Late Buses  We are now offering late buses after school on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Pickup is at Door 1 at 5pm. Route information is posted near the main office. 

 

Support Our Seniors!  Check out the latest Class of 2021 information below for many upcoming fundraisers! 

 

Don't forget about Online Sports Registration!  See the information below under Student Activities.

Junior Planning Day is April 26th.  See more information below.

 


Student Services


FCPS Grading Policy Adjustments

FCPS is adjusting our grading policy for the 2020-21school year to ensure students are not penalized by the challenges brought on by virtual learning due to the pandemic.  We wanted to ensure that you are aware of the grading options as we begin to close out the school year.  Below are key policy changes for high school students:

  • Final Exam flexibility that ensures an exam can only serve to improve a student’s grade for the year. Teachers will apply this in their grading practices for each class.

 

  • Use of No Mark, “NM”, instead of “F” grades for all courses. This will be automatically applied for any course in which a student receives an “F.”

 

  • Allowing high school students to select a mark of “P” for pass for up to two courses for which a passing grade is earned for the final mark. As referenced above, for the 2020-21 school year, final marks of “F” will automatically receive a No Mark, “NM.” 

Third quarter report cards and the Pass - No Mark Request Form will be available in ParentVue. Students and families are encouraged to carefully consider the option selecting a “Pass” as a final grade.  When thinking of selecting a “Pass” please consider the following:

  • Would the letter grade show a positive or consistent trend in my performance in the content area? If yes, it is recommended to keep the letter grade.
  • Does the letter grade contribute positively towards my GPA? If yes, it is recommended to keep the letter grade.
  • Postsecondary institutions define their own unique processes for evaluating the use of “P” in place of letter grades, and processes may vary across postsecondary institutions for both admissions and financial aid/scholarship consideration. A final mark of “P” represents any grades of “A” through “D”. Students/families are advised to carefully consider the opportunity to select a “P” instead of a letter grade and may choose to consult with the institution of higher education or other postsecondary institution if they have specific questions about implications of a “P”. 
  • Students who have already committed to postsecondary plans are encouraged to confirm with the institution/school regarding any potential impact on admissions, financial aid, or scholarships, if applicable.
  • If the letter grade demonstrates improvement, upward trend, or consistent performance in a subject or content area, many institutions/schools would recommend keeping the letter grade. 
  • What impact will this have for my postsecondary plans?
  • For NCAA-approved core courses completed in 2020-21 that have been issued a grade of Pass, the Eligibility Center will apply the credit earned in these courses toward the core-course requirement in the student's certification. If the student's core-course GPA would increase by assigning a value of 2.300, this value will be assigned to the Passed courses. However, if the student's core-course GPA would decrease by including the 2.300 value for Passed courses, the student’s core-course GPA will be calculated based only on courses with assigned letter grades from previous terms (credit from these courses will still be applied toward the student's core-course requirements). Note: This policy will apply to students from all grade levels (e.g., freshmen, sophomores) who successfully complete NCAA-approved pass/fail core courses in high school during the 2020-21 school year. http://fs.ncaa.org/Docs/eligibility_center/COVID19_Fall2021_MI.pdf

Additional information including considerations for postsecondary opportunities and frequently asked questions are available at the following link: https://www.fcps.edu/academics/grading-and-reporting/secondary

 

Please return all forms to WSStudentServices@fcps.edu  or the main office.

 


April is the Month of the Military Child

Spirit Week April 19-23

Month of the Military Child Spirit Week Activities

 

Eating Disorders

Eating disorders are serious but treatable mental and physical illnesses that can affect people of all genders, ages, races, religions, ethnicities, sexual orientations, body shapes, and weights. While no one knows for sure what causes eating disorders, a growing consensus suggests that it is a range of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors. Eating disorders are not fads or phases, and can have serious consequences for health, productivity, and relationships.

Eating disorders can develop or re-emerge at any age. Eating disorder specialists are reporting an increase in the diagnosis of children, some as young as five or six. Many eating disorder sufferers report that their thoughts and behaviors started much earlier than anyone realized, sometimes even in early childhood. Although most people report the onset of their eating disorder in their teens and young adulthood, there is some evidence that people are being diagnosed at younger ages.

In collaboration with the Fairfax County Health Department, FCPS has developed eating disorder documents with detailed information to be provided to parents and guardians of Fairfax County Public Schools. The letter and fact sheet have been translated and posted on the following webpage: http://fcpsnet.fcps.edu/ssse/translations/dss-healthmedical.htm.

 


Junior Planning Day - April 26th

The West Springfield Department of Student Services is hosting our Annual Junior Planning Day for parents, guardians, and 11th grade students. The day will consist of multiple concurrent sessions.   

The West Springfield Department of Student Services is hosting our Annual Junior Planning Day for parents, guardians, and 11th grade students. The day will consist of multiple concurrent sessions.   

Where: Virtually  

When:  Monday, April 26, 2021

Schedule of Events:

11:15am- 7:15pm Sessions inclusive of the following:

  • Senior Advice Panel Discussion 11:15am-12pm
  • Navigating Schoology & Naviance  11:30am-Noon
  • College Representative Panels 12:30pm-1:45pm & 6pm-7:15pm
  • Apprenticeships & ACE Programs 5pm- 5:30pm
  • College Application Components (Common App & Coalition) 5pm-5:30pm
  • Writing the College Essay 5:30pm-6pm
  • Military  5:30pm-6pm
  • WSHS Internal Processes Asynchronous

Please RSVP for sessions and to submit questions by using this link no later than April 19, 2021.

 We hope to see you there!


Girl Up!!

Period poverty is a massive issue both locally and abroad. When menstruators do not have access to affordable or hygienic period supplies, they are forced to use toilet paper, cardboard, socks, or whatever else they can find. Additionally, many of the programs that assist impoverished people are not equipped to address individuals' menstrual needs. That's where Girl Up's drive comes in. On April 26th from 1-3PM, West Springfield's Girl Up Club will be hosting a donations drive for pads, tampons, and gently used bras. All of the donations will go to help homeless menstruators across Northern Virginia. Please enter West Springfield through Rolling Rd (as if you were entering the kiss-and-ride line). The donation area will be set up between doors 11 and 12. If you have any questions or would still like to donate but are unable to attend either of the drop off events, please contact @wsgirlup on Instagram or wshsgirlup@gmail.com to set up a contactless pickup.


 

Spartan Pantry Restock

The Spartan Pantry is back up and running, but it is in desperate need of some TLC. Due to the pandemic our supplies are drastically low. If you are able to assist, we would love for you to contribute the following:

  • Canned Tuna and chicken
  • Corn, Baked Beans  (no green beans needed at this time)
  • Pasta noodles  and  Pasta sauce
  • Cereal and Oatmeal
  • Peanut Butter
  • Fruit cups, Applesauce, Jelly
  • Rice, Mac and Cheese (boxed)
  • Shampoo, Body Lotion, Deodorant (men and women)
  • Oral hygiene products (toothpaste, toothbrushes, mouthwash, floss)
  •  Body wash, bar soap (men and women), including sensitive skin
  • Laundry products (liquid detergent (preferably unscented), dryer sheets, pods)
  • Paper products (toilet tissue, paper towels, paper plates, cups)

Feel free to drop off donations outside of the front office, in the lobby area marked “Pantry”.

If you would like to donate gift cards, we are asking that they be for grocery stores only and be in denominations of no more than $20.

Any assistance you can provide is greatly appreciated. Thank you for your continued support of the Spartan Pantry.

 


NOVA JumpStart Program for Graduating Seniors

Northern Virginia Community College will offer a selection of online, tuition free courses to Northern Virginia graduating seniors. After meeting placement requirements, students will have the opportunity to take a maximum of two courses with the understanding that there may be textbooks or other material fees associated with courses. Students will need access to a computer and the internet.

Important dates

  • JumpStart applications will open April 5, 2021 and close April 30, 2021
  • Classes will run from June 1, 2021 till August 9, 2021

Please contact your counselor about the JumpStart Summer Program.  


Tech Support


For Virtual students needing technology support:

Beginning April 12th, please the Parent and Student IT Support Portal for trouble-shooting information and submitting a request for assistance.  You can make an appointment for curbside support at   https://outlook.office365.com/owa/calendar/JerryMasonTSSpec@fcps.edu/bookings/s/uyamzQjnVEiRk1h9pGZFQg2

 

For in-person students:

Tech support is provided before school/during lunch/after school in the Tech Office, Room 2451.


Student Activities


Summer Sports Camp Information

Registration information coming soon for Girls' Basketball Summer Camp, July 26-30,

Grades 3-9.  


On Line Sports Registration - New!

The county has moved to an online Registration process for all sports. Parents are now able to register their children of multiple sports and complete most of the paperwork online, including the concussion education.

This registration must be completed by all athletes regardless if they have already turned in paperwork this year. Just completing the registration does not make them eligible, it is a step in the process.

A copy of the physical will still need to be turned in to the Athletic Trainers and must be cleared by us before the athlete is allowed to participate. Physicals can be scanned and emailed to Chris Worrell (cworrell@fcps.edu) and is the preferred way or mailed to Chris Worrell, West Springfield HS, 6100 Rolling Road, Springfield 22152.

The links below are to the registration and help guides and videos if parents are having issues.

Please contact the activities office if there are any questions or issues.

 

Activity Registration Link

https://westspringfield-ar.rschooltoday.com/

 

Need Help? (Quick Start Guides and Videos)

https://ar.newhelpapp.rschooltoday.com/docs/

 

PDF

https://www.training.rschooltoday.com/page/103028/custom/2754

 

Video

https://rtvbroadcaster.com/archive/video/play/14408

 

If you have any sport specific questions about winter sports please contact the coaches below. 

 

Head Boys Crew Coach

Eric Whipkey

whipkey_eric@yahoo.com

Tryouts start on April 12th

Head Girls Crew Coach

Mark Hemphill

Mark_hemphill@watermgt.com

Tryouts start on April 12th

Head Baseball Coach

Jason Olms

jmolms@fcps.edu

Tryouts start on April 12th

Head Boys Lacrosse Coach

Clarkson Meredith

hcmeredith3rd@verizon.net

Tryouts start on April 12th

Head Girls Lacrosse Coach

Brian Puhlick

bhpuhlick@fcps.edu

Tryouts start on April 12th

Head Boys Soccer Coach

Josh Harris

jmharris1@fcps.edu

Tryouts start on April 12th

Head Girls Soccer Coach

Sara Smith

ourteaminfo@gmail.com

Tryouts start on April 12th

Head Softball Coach

Rob Benton

rsbenton@fcps.edu

Tryouts start on April 12th

Head Tennis Coach

Jeff Jones

jajones1@fcps.edu

Tryouts start on April 12th

Head Track Coach

Chris Pellegrini

cjpellegrini@fcps.edu

Tryouts start on April 12th

 

Important Information concerning Pre-season Workouts.

At this time workouts are restricted to a maximum of 50 participants (45 athletes and 5 coaches) and be outdoors. The number of participants is directly tied to the number of coaches present at a workout session. In order to ensure we remain within the established parameters any student athlete wanting to participate in a workout must contact the head coach prior to attending for the first time. This will all the head coach to plan ahead and ensure we maintain the correct athlete to coach ratio. DO NOT turn up without prior communication as there may not be space and you will be asked to go home.

 


WSHS PTSA, ANGP, Boosters


Class of 2021 - Updates


ANGP Committee Meeting

All Night Grad Party Committee Meeting: Tuesday, April 20 @7pm.  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84624978993

Email wshsangp@gmail.com with any questions.  

Sign up for a Committee  

 

We are in need of volunteers to help with committees such as Activities, Food, Store/Prizes, Casino, Security, etc.  Join us on April 20th or email wshsangp@gmail.com with any questions.  Please keep an eye out for sign up genius sign ups coming soon!

 

CLASS OF 2022 ANGP:  That's right Junior Parents!  It is time to start planning the Class of 2022 ANGP!  Please consider joining in our meetings to learn more about what is involved.  We will begin planning Class of 2022 ANGP meetings next month!  Please email wshsangp@gmail.com if you'd like to be added to our email list or have any questions.

 


ANGP  Milano's Fundraiser

MILANO'S RESTAURANT NIGHT:  

Tuesday, APRIL 20, 5-9pm.

Pick up dinner before our ANGP meeting or just give yourself a break from cooking.  All proceeds benefit the WSHS All Night Grad Party.  

 

ANGP Price Increase on May 1

 

ANGP TICKETS!!  This Year's ANGP Celebration will be held Graduation Night from 11pm-5am at the St. James.  Ninja Warrior course,volleyball, basketball, swimming, ice skating, casino, e-sports and so much more!   TICKET PRICES INCREASE MAY 1.

To purchase tickets and register go to https://wshs-angp.square.site/tickets

 

We are in need of volunteers to help the night of the event!  Sign up here: WSHS Spartan Parents: All Night Grad Party Volunteers (signupgenius.com)

 

 

DONATIONS NEEDED FOR WSHS ANGP: 

https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2839LQS9OUWA0?ref_=wl_share

The West Springfield High School All Night Grad Party will be held June 1, 2021. Throughout the evening, graduates will have an opportunity to win prizes, enter raffles and select items from our ANGP Store.  Items purchased from this list will be donated to the ANGP Store and Giveaways for the evening. Thank you for your generous donation. The WSHS ANGP Booster Organization is a 501(c)(3) organization. Tax ID#: 85-1623308

Please consider making a donation to the ANGP WISH LIST.

 

 

QUESTIONS: email wshsangp@gmail.com  and check WSHS class of 2021 | Facebook

 


 

'21 HATS AND BRACELETS:  Class of 2021 Hats and WSHS Custom Pura Vida bracelets will be available for purchase or pick up at the Senior Social 4/19 or order today while supplies last: https://wshs-angp.square.site/buy

ANGP  Fundraiser Hats and Bracelets

Sr Yard Sign Sale

SENIOR YARD SIGNS!!!  Class of 2021 yards signs are available now. The cost is $25 or $30 for a customized sign.  You will receive an email when your sign is ready for contactless pick up. To purchase signs go to  https://wshs-angp.square.site/buy

 

 

 


SENIOR CARE PACKAGE DELIVERY: We will have a limited number of Senior Care Packages for sale.  Orders must be placed by Friday, April 24. Senior Care Package | WSHS ANGP Booster Organization (square.site)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Senior Care Package Delivery

 

 

SHEET AND TOWEL FUNDRAISER!:  Need towels or sheets for your soon to be graduate?  Richmond bedsheets are long-lasting, colorfast, wrinkle-resistant, moisture-wicking, breathable, and hypoallergenic. Fitted sheets have deep pockets and elastic all around for a secure fit. Will not wrinkle or fade. Go straight from the dryer to your bed. Forms a protective barrier against dust mite allergens.  Proceeds benefit WSHS ANGP.

Visit https://www.simplysheets.net/order-online

and enter organization name WSHS ANGP and code SS001297 at checkout.

ANGP Sheets and towels fundraiser

Boosters Information

 Mulch Sale

 

 

 

Touchdown Club Boosters Fundraiser

3-cubic-foot bag ($5 pick-up/$6 delivery)

Deliveries will be made by the end of April!

Delivery available on orders of 10 or more bags!

Our high-quality double-shredded hardwood mulch is guaranteed to be free of

additives, chemicals or dyes.

 

For more details, FAQs and order form visit:

SpartanTCB.org/Mulch-Sale

*Orders of less than 10 bags must be picked up at West Springfield High School.

*************************************************************************************************************

Volunteers Needed

Booster Fundraiser Shirt Sale