Weekly News From South County High School


From The Principal

Family,

Once again I begin my message with a huge thank you. This week’s thank you is for sharing your awesome children with us. Our children are doing amazing things and the fact that they are willing to share their talents and passions with us makes the work we do with them so much easier. I am not ever going to say that there aren’t going to be issues and some headaches, but the experiences we continue to share far outweigh any issues that come our way.

At the top of the charts this week for me was being able to spend time with our drumline students prior to their departure to Dayton for their competition on Tuesday. Not only did they put on an amazing show, we were all treated to being able to enjoy the George Mason University drumline and their show! Both groups of musicians were so talented and I know that we will hear more about their successes in the future. The audience was also treated to a show put on by our Color Guard. Another amazing group of talented individuals who have come together to make create something beautiful!

I also had the opportunity to spend an evening with a number of our athletes. I don’t ever care about the number of wins or losses our teams may accumulate. What is important to see them rally together in competition and walk away with their heads held high because they gave their all.  I have been fortunate to have been able to learn so many life lessons from my experiences in competition or just working in groups with others that I would never trade them in for anything. I know our children are walking away with some of those lessons as well.

Inside the classroom I have been able to watch students work together and learn together. As we wind the year down and students work on final projects and problem-based assessments, I will continue to be able to see the teamwork in so many different areas of our building knowing they will take those experiences away with them beyond our walls.

Lastly, I watched our students get dressed to the 9’s as they enjoyed time together at prom. What turns out to likely be my last prom was a very special and enjoyable one. To see them all dressed and in this social environment tugged at my heart a little. “My Babies” are all grown up now and preparing to move on to new things.  The proud Poppa Bear left the venue Saturday night truly proud of them.

Again, thank you for this opportunity to work with some of the very best people on the planet.  They keep me excited about the work and make me feel as though my own younger children are not doomed! :) I wish each of you a safe and restful remainder of the weekend.  Take care and continue to be safe! #OneStallion

Gary


In this issue:

  • Month of the Military Child
  • Testing Corner
  • South County Theatre Arts
  • Senior News
  • From the Yearbook Staff
  • From the Library
  • From Performing Arts
  • ANGP Fundraiser
  • Boys Summer Basketball Camp
  • From the PTSO
  • DECA Fundraising
  • Stallion Spirit Store 
  • Leading Ladies Global Inheritance
  • Important Upcoming Dates

April is Month of the Military Child

Purple Up!

South County is celebrating the Month of the Military Child!  Next Wednesday, April 27th will be our next  “PURPLE UP” Day.  We encourage all students and staff to dress in purple, a color that represents resiliency as well as a combination of the colors of all our military service branches, to show your support of our military community.  Military connected students are also encouraged to join us in the Silverbox next Wednesday, April 27th between 7:40-8:05 for some grab and go breakfast items sponsored by our wonderful PTSO.   

  

Military Child


Testing Corner

The Testing Office is in need of parent volunteers to help support Advanced Placement (AP) Testing from May 2 through May 17.  Volunteers would support the Student Services staff in checking in students, distributing tests, and supporting test security during the exams.  To avoid conflicts of interest, we ask that parents do not volunteer during their own student’s exam.  Please go to the Sign-Up Genius linked below to volunteer:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60B0A4FABA82FA0FE3-advanced

If you have any additional questions, please contact Chris Bird, AP Test Coordinator, and cwbird@fcps.edu or at 703-446-1643.

 

The current Advanced Placement (AP) exams - Chemistry, Spanish Literature, Japanese Language, and U.S. Government - set for May 2 will continue as scheduled as these dates are set by the College Board. If any student has any concern about this exam schedule due to the change in the observance of Eid al Fitr, please encourage them to speak with Chris Bird, AP Test Coordinator at cwbird@fcps.edu.

   


Mama Mia

The SCHS Theatre Arts Department

is proud to present their spring musical,

Mamma Mia!

On a small Greek island, Sophie dreams of a perfect wedding — one which includes her father giving her away. The problem? Sophie doesn’t know who he is! Her mother, Donna, the former lead singer of the 1970s pop group Donna and the Dynamos, refuses to talk about the past, so Sophie decides to take matters into her own hands. Sneaking a peek in her mother’s old diaries, she discovers three possible fathers: Sam, Bill, and Harry. She secretly invites all three to the wedding, convinced that she’ll know her father when she sees him. But when all three turn up, it may not be as clear as she thought! Told through the legendary music of ABBA, Mamma Mia! such as Dancing Queen, Super Trouper, and the classic Mamma Mia!, this musical has become a worldwide sensation that has audiences everywhere dancing. Please be aware this show contains mature themes. It may not be appropriate for younger audiences.

Performances are on May 6, 7, 13, and 14 at 7 pm and tickets are $15.

Tickets can be purchased at schstheatre.com or directly at this link: https://www.etix.com/ticket/v/15597/.

If you have any questions, please reach out to

Molly Rumberger, SCHS Theatre Arts Director,

at mdrumberger@fcps.edu. 

  


Attention Class of 2022

Parents/Guardians!

 

Link to the Senior Information section

https://sites.google.com/view/schs-class-of-2022/home

 

FINANCE INFORMATION:

All Seniors will need to clear all financial obligations to the school before graduation in June. Different types of obligations have different payment methods available. Students and families may check debts in MySchoolBucks, and ask about debts and lost books in the Main Office.

 

  • Senior dues ($75) should be paid using MySchoolBucks, through the School Store, by May 1.
  • Fees for this year’s courses should be paid using MySchoolBucks, in the Invoice section, by May 1.
  • Lost chargers or laptops can be paid using MySchoolBucks, through the School Store, by May 1 OR by bringing cash or a check* to Finance. If you return the item, you do not have to pay for it.
  • Fees for courses you took in 9th, 10th, or 11th grade must be paid in the Finance Office, using cash or check.*
  • FCPS-On Technology Support Fee for 2019-20 must be paid in the Finance Office, using cash or a check.*
  • Books from past years, both textbooks and novels from English class, must be returned to the Finance Office, OR paid for using cash or a check.* If you return the book, you do not have to pay for it.
  • Books from this year should be returned to the teacher who checked them out to you, or paid for in the Finance Office if they are lost, using cash or a check.*
  • Athletic uniforms returned late must be returned to the coach, who must email the Finance Office to have Finance clear the obligation.
  • Other fees or charges must be paid in the Finance Office, using cash or a check.*

*Prior to May 1, students and parents can pay obligations with cash or a check (payable to South County High School).

After May 1, obligations can only be paid using cash. No checks will be accepted for senior obligations after May 1.

 

GRADUATION ACCESSIBILITY INFORMATION:

Thank you for inquiring about handicapped seating at Eagle Bank Arena for graduation. Below is the information we have been provided by the arena. There is no reserved seating that we can provide. Everything is first come, first served.

There is handicapped seating in the arena at each of the entrances built in. They are clearly marked on the concourse and are located at each section entrance. The entrance to the seating is on the concourse level so there are no stairs or challenges to reaching the seating. There will be ushers who work for the arena who are able to direct you to the seating when you enter the arena. There is typically one seat marked for each seat that is available for a companion to the wheelchair seating. This seating is first come, first served.

Anyone in need of sign language interpretation at graduation for guests/family members of graduates, please email Kaitlyn Price at kaprice1@fcps.edu.

   


From The Yearbook Staff

 

DON’T FORGET TO BUY YOUR YEARBOOK

Pre-sales for the yearbook end on May 1 or when they sell out, whichever comes first.

Yearbooks presales take place online and cost $80.  To buy a book, go to www.yearbookforever.com

Books that don’t sell during pre-sale, can be bought during distribution for $90.

   


From the Library

All library materials checked out to seniors must be returned to the library by May 23rd. Library materials checked out to underclassmen will need to be returned by May 27th. Please ask your student(s) to continue to check their FCPS Gmail on Monday mornings for email reminders of any overdue library materials checked out to them. Seniors will need to clear their library account before receiving their cap and gown. Students can contact Ms. Strong or Ms. Romney in the library with any questions.

 


From Performing Arts

Indoor Drumline WGI Championships

This weekend the indoor drumline traveled to Dayton, Ohio to compete in the Winterguard International Championships event.  South County is currently ranked 11th in the nation and will be competing against the best ensembles from around the country.  Please join me in wishing our students luck!

Virginia All-State Band/Orchestra/Choir 

Congrats to Eric Bach, Natalie Beasley, Eva Jaghori, Sarah Peckham, David Ransom, Connor Walsh, Daniel Kim, and Zayd Kahn as they traveled this week to participate in the Virginia All State events. We are so proud of you for representing South County and for your amazing talent. 

 

General Interest Meeting for Marching Band

April 27th at 7PM 

It is time to get ready for Fall 2022 Marching Season!! Woot Woot!!  This meeting is for parents and students both new and returning to find out about the upcoming season. For new students and parents it will be a chance to find out about the Marching Band and meet Mr. Engdahl. This is also when all students and parents, new and returning, will find out what the show will be, the schedule for the year and to have any questions answered. Please plan to attend and bring all your questions.  More information at schsbands.org

 

 


Kung Fu

 

South County High School

All Night Grad Party Fundraiser

WHAT: A Great-Tasting Fundraising Event!

WHEN: April 26, 2022; 5pm-9pm

WHERE: Kung Fu Tea (Lorton Market Street)

WHY: Come visit Lorton’s newest hot spot, Kung Fu Tea!

If you order online, eat in or take it to go, 25%of your

order will go to the South County All Night Grad Party.

Tell your neighbors, friends and family to head to Kung

Fu Tea and mention South County High School when

they place their order. Help our seniors have an

awesome graduation night!

www.kungfutea.com

 

Tea

BBB

2022 BOYS BASKETBALL CAMP

June 20th-24th & June 27th-July 1st

Who | Basketball Enthusiasts Ages 7 - 15 Time | 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Cost | $190 Save $15 if you sign up for both sessions Sibling Discount - $15 off first sibling Location | South County HS Gym (Entrance #11)

To Register: https://www.stallionsboysbasketball.com/basketball-camp.cfm

 

Camp Includes:

  • Daily Skill Instruction from SC Coaches & Players
  • 5 on 5  League Play & Championship Tournament
  • 1 on 1 Tournament
  • Hot Shot Contest
  • Free Throw Contest
  • Individual & Team Awards
  • Free Camp T-Shirt

What to bring

  • Basketball shoes
  • Athletic shorts & t-shirt
  • Water bottle
  • Campers may bring a lunch or purchase one from the CONCESSION STAND

 


From the PTSO 

Please help us thank our amazing teachers and staff with a Staff appreciation Cinco de Mayo lunch! The PTSO will be catering a hot lunch for all staff on May 5th but we could use some help with drinks, sides and a candy dessert bar. We would also like to have a collection of gift cards that we can randomly gift to some of our staff of 250! We are so lucky to be able to finally thank our teachers in person and show our appreciation for all that they do for our kids!

Please visit the sign up if you are able to donate, https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60B0548AFA82DA6FE3-teacher

Thank you!

 

ANGP Amazon Wishlist:

Happy Spring South County Family and Friends. With Spring finally here, we are gearing up for our Seniors to graduate in June. Part of their celebration includes an All Night Graduation Party that will be taking place at The St. James on 6 Jun 2022. As we celebrate their achievements and the adventures to come, we will be having a "store" where the students can "purchase" prizes with tickets earned during the night's activities. We are in need of donations and have created a gift registry on Amazon. We would greatly appreciate it if you would help support the last exciting event these students have as part of their Senior year.

In order to make a purchase, please follow these steps.

  1. Go to the registry tab in your Amazon account (top ticker line)
  2. Registrant name: South County High School; Gift list type: Custom gift list
  3. Select South County High School All night Grad Party prizes
  4. Choose the prizes you want to purchase and add them to your cart. We are asking for multiple duplicates with a class size of over 500 students.
  5. When you get to the checkout page, please choose the shipping address of "South County ANGP Prizes - ATTN: Kidada Bivins". This will ensure all prizes go to the same location.

Thank you for your support of the South County Class of 2022. They will all do amazing things and we are so excited to celebrate their accomplishments!

 

SENIOR PARENTS: All Night Grad Party Tickets

All Night Grad Party Tickets (ANGP) may be purchased at: https://southcountyptso.membershiptoolkit.com/angp

 

The cost is $50/person. Buy your tickets today! Price increases to $75 on May 1st! Please email angp@southcountyptso.org with questions. Please see your counselor if financial assistance is needed.

 

Our All Night Grad Party (ANGP) will be at The ST. James Entertainment Complex on June 6, 2022 from 11:00pm - 5:00 am.

Come join the fun! There will be a casino, ice skating, virtual reality, golf simulator, rock climbing, BINGO and so much more!

 

Graduation Lawn Sign

Parents can pre-order a Graduation Lawn Sign to celebrate their Senior. Deadline is May 6th!

Grad Seat Raffle

Buy a chance to win 10 reserved special seating for graduation! Tickets are $10 each or $25 for 3! Purchase tickets here! Drawing will take place at Graduation Rehearsal!

 

If you are interested in learning more about the PTSO, please visit our website here. If you would like to make a donation to help us continue our programs that serve your children and/or become a member, please create an account (if you don’t already have one) and log in. Thank you!

 


DECA Fundraising

DECA is bringing 27 marketing students to the International Career Development Conference and Competition in Atlanta, Georgia at the end of April! Please consider supporting their trip by purchasing FUN PASTA!! Whether you love pasta yourself, or want to gift to it to a friend, everyone loves to play with the fun little shapes that Fun Pasta Fundraising offers! Check out the Horsin’ Around pasta for a good Kentucky Derby or SOCO theme!! Orders will be shipped directly to you! As always, thanks in advance for supporting our students!! 😊 https://funpastafundraising.com/shop/south-county-deca_1647353163903

   


SoCo Merchandise Available at the

Stallion Spirit Store

Website, Kiosk and Vending Machine!

South County’s Stallion Spirit Store has a variety or ways you can purchase items for the school year. We have a website where you can browse our spirit wear and find a PDF Order Form for download; invoicing for payment on MySchoolBucks will be sent after your order is fulfilled.  You can also find our kiosk in the cafeteria during lunches on odd days (5th period) as well as in the gym lobby by way of a retail vending machine! 

Thank you in advance for supporting the Entrepreneurship & Marketing program as well as the Work and Transition program here at South County. The students from these programs typically work the Spirit Kiosk at lunches to build customer service skills as well as count inventory, review financial records and create promotional plans. These work-based learning opportunities allow students to connect classroom lessons to actual scenarios.

   


Leading Ladies

Leading Ladies Global Inheritance

Our mission is to create a pathway for under served high school females to reach their potential through STEM education,internships, and leadership development training.

The Leading Ladies Initiative provides students between10th -12th grades an opportunity to break the barriers of women entering the STEM industry through a work-based learning program. During the program students will experience first-hand how STEM is applied in various careers and gain an understanding of how both high school course selection and college preparedness equips you for a STEM career.

www.globalinheritance.net

enid@globalinheritance.net

  


Important Upcoming Dates

 

May 30                       Memorial Day

June 6                        Graduation  2pm  Eagle Bank Arena/Early Release 

June 10                      Last Day of School/Early Release