WPHS News You Choose - 11/12/21

Fairfax County Public Schools sent this bulletin at 11/12/2021 03:21 PM EST
Veterans Day

WPHS JROTC represents our Wolverine Community and Fairfax County at the New York City Veterans Day Parade!

In this week’s WPHS News You Choose:

  • Important Dates
  • Principal Message
  • WPHS Grading Practices Q&A
  • PTSA News
  • School News Update
  • Athletics Reminders and Fundraisers
  • Students Services and College and Career Center Updates 
  • SAT/ACT Test Prep

November 13:       ParentVUE and StudentVUE access resumes at 6am

November 16:       Report Cards Distributed in Advisory

November 18:       WPHS Grading Practices Q &A (see principal message for more information)

November 18:       PTSA Fundraiser – Five Guys, 3:30 – 7:30 PM, two Alexandria locations  

November 21:       WPHS Boys Basketball Team Leaf Raking Fundraiser, 11am - 3pm

November 24-26:  Thanksgiving Break

December 5:         WPHS Mattress Sale Fundraiser, to benefit WPHS Athletics, 10 AM – 5 PM

December 6:         PTSA Membership Meeting at 6:30 PM – (In Person and Virtual)

December 7:         WPHS Choir Boosters Meeting, 7 PM (Zoom – link below)

Principal Message:

Happy Friday Wolverines!

I wanted to take a moment to share some information and concerns regarding student behaviors.  About a month ago, I sent a brief message reminding us all of the need to work together to support positive student behaviors and choices at school.  I mentioned the reality of our freshmen having not been in a typical school setting since the spring of their 7th grade year.  The challenges of norming their learning expectations along with behavior expectations has been challenging to say the least.  We were managing issues like multiple school fights and class cuts.  I am happy to report that those behaviors have significantly improved and we want to keep the momentum as we are a community that strives to care for one another and to hold high expectations for our students and staff.

What is of significant concern in the past few weeks has been marijuana and alcohol use at school.  Specifically, use of edibles and THC vape pens.  We have confiscated marijuana and THC products weekly and have unfortunately had 5 different students in 4 different incidents need medical care as a result of their use at school.  Thankfully, none of them were injured and were able to return to school within a few days.   These activities are on the rise across FCPS. Over the past two years, the FCPS Student’s Rights and Responsibilities (the regulation that governs overall student rights and rights within the discipline process) has changed in so far as the level of discipline that can be given for possession, use and distribution of marijuana/THC.  These infractions are no longer eligible for a referral to the hearings office with possible removal from West Potomac.  Only cases that cause a “major school disruption” can be considered for the referral process.  Most students involved in these infractions will receive some form of suspension up to 5 days and are referred to our Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist, Ms. Knudson, who provides education and support to the students and their families. Ms. Knudson will be presenting at our December PTSA meeting so please mark your calendars to join us.  This is a serious community concern because our students do not realize how detrimental their use and distribution of these unregulated products can be.  Students are unaware of what may be in these products besides marijuana or THC that can cause serious illness and possible death.  Please have very clear conversations with your children. Let them know where you stand as their parents and what you expect of them, especially at school.  Yes, they are teenagers and yes, they often seem to not be listening. Trust me, they are listening.

At the end of the day, WE ARE WEST POTOMAC!  We will tackle this just as we do any thing else that comes our way.  We will work together to support our kids, academically, socially and emotionally. 

Please have a safe and wonderful weekend,

Ms. Millard

WPHS Grading Practices Q&A hybrid Q/A meeting will be on Thursday, November 18th (this is a change in date) at 6 pm in our Auditorium.  You may also participate virtually at the zoom link below (Spanish translation will be available in the zoom link as well).  Please watch/listen to the grading recording that was sent out a couple of weeks ago and also linked below, prior to the Nov 18th meeting as some of the general questions/concerns are addressed there.  That way we will have time for other questions during the Q/A.  I hope that you all have a wonderful Fall weekend.

You are invited to a Zoom webinar.

When: Nov 18, 2021 06:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Topic: WPHS Grading Practices Q &A

Please click the link below to join the webinar:

https://myfcpsk12.zoom.us/j/91976069083?pwd=M1J4QjhIcm5pSUVWUnlvWWVGSFdmQT09

Passcode: 247972

Topic: WPHS Grading Presentation 10-22-21

Start Time: Oct 22, 2021 04:59 PM

Link to previous Grading Recording from Principal Millard:

https://myfcpsk12.zoom.us/rec/share/PpYecD66tO4G_Dw8FaMJH1uIcn0hqPQRVzQzpFzCu1YIN-0mDBvz0CFXWYPZc9VV.8tQlFFwQeKmNin0T

Thank you,

Ms. Millard

PTSA Updates

  • Thank you to all who joined the November 8 virtual PTSA meeting to meet our wonderful WPHS student counselors!  We heard from Ms. Millard about the concerns regarding the increase of drug and alcohol related instances at school.  In addition, we discussed Fairfax County’s plan to build a homeless shelter for single adults on the site of the old Hybla Valley Nursery on Beacon Hill Rd.  It is currently slated to permit rehabilitation privileges to convicted sex offenders and violent criminals. The proposed site sits within 1000 feet of West Potomac High School’s athletic fields. Here is a link to a letter submitted to Supervisor Dan Storck on behalf of our WP concerned parents.  
  • The next PTSA meeting will be Dec 6, 2021– in person in the WP library and virtually. Topics: “Study in DC” Presentation, Substance Abuse Prevention, Holiday Philanthropy.  Thank you and we look forward to seeing you then!
  • "Poinsettias are coming!  Nothing screams holiday cheer like these bright red plants!  Because of the predicted nationwide shortage of poinsettias this year, we decided to grab up a bunch, so our WPHS families don't miss out!   Pre-orders end on November 17th – order yours today   https://westpotomacptsa.memberhub.com/store   Pickup will be on Dec. 2 from 5-8p.m. at the WPHS cafeteria (enter through back parking lot).  Hurry! With a limited supply, these beautiful plants will go fast!" For more information review our flyer here!
  • Five Guys Fundraiser, Nov 18th:  "Who doesn't love a good burger and fries! Take a night off from cooking and help out our PTSA by eating at Five Guys on November 18, anytime between 3:30 and 7:30 and mention the West Potomac PTSA!  You can also take a picture of the flyer and show it to the cashier. Thank you for your support!"   
  • Minted Fundraiser:  https://www.minted.com.   Shop senior portrait cards, holiday photo cards, wedding stationery, fine art, personalized gifts, and more designed by independent artists. Use PTSA's promo code is: FUNDRAISEPOTOMAC.  WPHS families receive 20% off holiday cards and gifts - 15% will be donated back!                                                      

School Activities/News Updates

“One Love” Club 

  • The “One Love" Student Club was recently highlighted in this amazing article! Take a moment to read about the great work being done by this Club. 
One Love

WPHS Volleyball Team Picture after a recent game highlighting the work of the "One Love" Club.

  • Request from WPHS English Dept:  We are seeking parent volunteers to read books that members of our English department would like to get approved through the Book Approval process. Parents can volunteer to read as little or as many books as they would like. The committee consists of two English teachers, two parents and a principal designee. We welcome as many parent volunteers as are willing. Thank you in advance for your help! Please contact Susie Britton, Assistant Principal, at smbritton@fcps.edu or (703)718-2610.
  • MOE'S CHIP AND QUESO BAR IS BACK!!! The PTSA and Student Services are happy to announce that we will once again host a celebration for the students who earned all A's or A/B for the first quarter with Moe's chips/queso and guac!. The celebration this year will be on FRIDAY NOVEMBER 19TH during all four lunches. This year we will be setting up outside on the senior patio and masks will be required even outdoors.  We need volunteers to help set up, serve, and clean up. No experience is necessary and it is a great way to meet other parents and see the kids in school again.
    • Sign-up here - A & A/B Honor Roll - Moe's Chip/Dip Celebration
    • Due to recent changes, we will postpone the 1st Qtr gift card raffle.   We will hold on to those gift cards for the 2nd Qtr, thank you for the families who have already donated gift cards.

WPHS Band:

  • Congratulations to band students Matthew Verich and Weston Ward for being named to the 2021 Northern Virginia Senior Regional Orchestra. They were one of 103 students in FCPS schools named to this honor.  Ronnie Gattuso and David Rubenstein were named as alternates.
  • The Senior Regional Orchestra event is a state-sponsored audition group and it will be the first collaborative concert since March 2019. The public is invited to the group’s performance at Westfield High School on Saturday, November 13, at 2:30 p.m. The concert is free and masks are required. The Northern Virginia Senior Regional Orchestra is led by Maestro James Ross of the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra.

WPHS Orchestra

  • Chick Fil A Fundraiser Monday, Nov 22nd, WPHS Door 2A from 4pm - 7pm. Give yourself a pre-Thanksgiving cooking break on Monday, November 22nd.  We will have a Chick-fil-A drive-through beginning at 4 PM at the Spring Bank Building, Door 2A. They will go fast so place your order here in advance,  https://forms.gle/22Sdb6tyJogtKJBp6  Deadline for pre-orders end on Sat., Nov. 19th at 5 pm. For more information review our flyer!

WPHS Choir Boosters

  • WPHS Choir Boosters is dedicated to helping enrich student’s music experience.  Our next booster meeting will be held via Zoom on December 7 at 7pm.   Boosters help with chorus activities and fundraising events.  You can join boosters at link:  https://forms.gle/VricURxaZbx86C7VA .  Support your West Potomac choir student by displaying a West Potomac Choir Yard Sign.  Please contact Rhonda Brown at rhondabrown60@gmail.com to purchase.

WP Class of 2022 Yard Signs

  • We have a little over 100 left. Be sure to order yours today. Cost is $20.    https://westpotomacptsa.memberhub.com/store     Pick-up details will be provided once the sign you order arrives.  Note: all profits from signs go directly to support the class of 2022 graduation celebrations and scholarships."   Questions: Contact Shauna Hamilton at shaunahamilton@mac.com

Christmas Wreaths! West Potomac Crew Team fundraiser

  • IN PERSON Wreath Sales in December! The West Potomac Crew Team is happy to announce that it will be selling wreaths in person at two locations this year between November 30 and December 15! Look for us at Hollin Hills Pool (December 4, 5, 11 & 12) and at St Luke's Episcopal Church (Nov 30 - December 1 and December 6-10). Please come by and pick out a farm fresh, fragrant wreath for your door. Thank you for your support!

Alexandria Community Nutcracker - Tickets are now available:

  • For the 13th year, dancers from West Potomac and other FCPS and local schools will perform together in the Alexandria Community Nutcracker. All ages will be swept away by the Christmas magic of the party scene and the enchanting dances in the Land of Sweets. The performance includes ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, gymnastics, and Irish dancing. Shows are at Mount Vernon High School this year because of the construction at West Potomac. The performance dates with tickets remaining are Thursday December 2 at 5:30 pm, Friday December 3 at 6:30 pm, and Saturday December 4 at both 2:30 pm and 6:30 pm. Proceeds from Nutcracker ticket sales will support an arts scholarship program that FCPS students benefit from. Other items sold at the show will support the West Potomac Dance Team. For more details and to purchase tickets, go to artspireva.com

Athletics Information and WPHS Athletics Fundraisers

  • WP Boys Basketball Team Leaf Raking Fundraiser:  One Day Only!  Sunday, November 21st from 11am - 3pm.  Please consider supporting the WP Boys Basketball Team with their efforts to raise funds for team gear/equipment and participation in the Holiday Tournament in Falls Church, VA December 2021.  
    • $300 for 4 hours of Leaf Raking Services • Groups of 4 players with 1 parent leader • 4-hour time slots available OR split the cost with a close walking distance neighbor (boys will rake for 2 hours then walk to your neighbor’s house for 2 hours). You will only need to provide the leaf bags! Basketball players will bring rakes and gloves. Please email Angela Barr your name, home address, phone number, email address   to abarr4477@gmail.com.  A confirmation email will be sent to the email provided above. Thank you in advance for your support!
  • Support WPHS Athletes:  Mattress Sale Fundraiser:  Sunday, December 5, 2021 10am - 5pm @6500 Quander Rd, Alexandria, VA. More information available on our flyer!
  • Looking for more information and weekly updates regarding our athletics program?  Be sure to subscribe to the WPHS Athletics Weekly News You Choose!  Visit the FCPS News You Choose Subscriber Preferences Pageand find West Potomac High School.  There you can select the Athletics Weekly News You Choose and stay up to date on all things athletics!

Student Services / College and Career Center Updates

  • Interested in Governor World Language Academy? 
    • Do you love learning another language and have the emotional maturity, stability, stamina, and self-discipline to live outside your home for three weeks?  Are you an 11th grader or mature 10th grader?  Please access the following GWLA Overview Slides for more info or watch the  GWLA Overview Recorded Presentation (6 minute video with audio). 
    • After you read/watch the slides and recording above, spoke with your parents/guardians and your World Language teacher, and feel this is for you, fill out this Governor Academy Interest 2021-2022 From by November 26th.  If you have any questions please see Ms. Rodriguez in Room 454 or email her at yrodriguezfi@fcps.edu . 
  • College and Career Center: Upcoming events in the College & Career Center:
    • Supply Chain Management Careers Webinar: On Monday, November 15, 2021 from 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm, FCPS will host a virtual career webinar about Supply Chain Management Careers specifically for FCPS middle and high school students. Students in attendance will hear from Mr. Irvin Varkonyi, Supply Chain Management professional, and Dale Chrystie, FedEx Services Representative. The webinar will highlight opportunities in supply chain management careers and include time for questions.
      • Students must register by Friday, November 12th.  Please see the flyer for registration details.
      • If you have questions about this student opportunity, email Matt Bechtel at mhbechtel@fcps.edu.
    • College Access Fairfax Scholarship 101 Webinar: Seniors can attend this virtual event to learn about the different kinds of scholarships that are offered, where to locate scholarship opportunities, and how to best complete scholarship applications.  Prior registration is not required.  (This event will be repeated in the Spring for underclassmen.)  The event will be on November 17th from 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm using the link: https://myfcpsk12.zoom.us/j/99796214655
  • FAFSA Assistance: Seniors with questions about the Free Application for Financial Aid (FAFSA) can come to the Career Center to get assistance from our CAF Financial Aid Champion Mrs. Rowsey.  She will be available during each lunch period every week to answer questions regarding FAFSA, including this Monday, November 15th.  No appointment necessary!
    • Mrs. Rowsey can also be contacted at khrowsey@fcps.edu for families who would like to schedule appointments for assistance.
  • ASVAB Test: Each year West Potomac High School offers students the opportunity to take the ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery). The ASVAB is a multi‐aptitude battery of tests that helps in identifying different skills and competencies.  Test results provide a snapshot of current knowledge and skills. The scores can be compared with the educational or job requirements for occupations of interest to students. The ASVAB is also used as the entrance exam for the military.
    • The ASVAB will be administered to interested seniors and juniors on Tuesday, November 30, 2021 in the WPHS Career Center from 8:30 am – 11:30 am.  Seniors or juniors interested in taking the ASVAB test must complete the Google form online NO LATER THAN Thursday, November 18th at 4:00 pm: https://forms.gle/BG74E5CNv5UPrK2e6.  This deadline will NOT be extended. 
  • CCC Hours: Monday – Friday from 8 am – 4 pm. Mrs. Karen Young, WPHS College & Career Center Specialist, is available to meet with students and parents virtually or by phone. To schedule, please send an email to Mrs. Young at kbyoung1@fcps.edu or she can be reached via phone at 703-718-2548.

SAT/ACT TEST PREP:

  • Test Prep Classes and Mock Tests - View full schedule and Register Here.  
    • Next mocks -     Mock ACT 11/20/21  - Mock SAT 12/11/21
    • Winter Classes – ACT starts 1/22/22 - SAT starts 12/11/21
  • More Resources available on the Test Prep Program Web Page
  • Questions? Contact Marilyn Aboff, marilynaboff@yahoo.com.
  • Scholarships - WPHS student need-based scholarships for mocks and classes are available through the WPHS College and Career Center Specialist, Karen B. Young, kbyoung1@fcps.edu
  • Need Flexibility? Try Applerouth’s Self-Paced Online Course - Animated video lessons and comprehensive practice for every section of the SAT or ACT. Available for purchase ($125.00) on the PTSA’s MemberHubStore.
  • Applerouth’s Guide to Academic Success ($10.00) available now on PTSA’s MemberHubStore. Build a foundation for better study skills! This 88-page guide teaches students how to take control of their learning and understand why some habits are better than others.