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Woodson Weekly -
September 23rd |
Woodson Weekly is published every Friday to provide the community with important information about school life at Woodson High School.
Mission Statement
Woodson High School’s mission is to empower our community to reach their individual potential by creating a healthy environment of mutual respect, responsibility, equity, and inclusion.
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To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.
Para leer este mensaje en otros idiomas, podrán ver las traducciones automáticas en nuestro sitio web.
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 Students in genetics and biotech class observe how enzymes are used to change the protein in milk and make cheese.
Important Upcoming Dates
Monday, September 26th - Professional Work Day/Student Holiday; Religious and Cultural Observance Day - Rosh Hashana
Friday, September 30th - Deadline to opt-out of SEL Screener (see #)
Saturday, October 1st, 8:15-9:15pm - Homecoming Bonfire
Tuesday, October 4th - Religious and Cultural Observance Day - Yom Kippur begins at sundown
Wednesday, October 5th - Student Holiday; Religious and Cultural Observance Day - Yom Kippur
Thursday, October 6th - Deadline to register for World Languages Credit Exam (see #18)
Friday, October 7th - Pep Rally during 3rd Period, Homecoming Parade, Pig Out, Homecoming Football Game (see #5)
Saturday, October 8th, 8-11:30pm - Homecoming Dance (see #5)
Monday, October 10th - Professional Work Day/Student Holiday; Indigenous Peoples' Day
The complete FCPS 2022-2023 School Year Calendar
Woodson's Events & Activities Calendar
Message from Mr. Greata
Aloha Woodson Community!
We are so excited to wear our Hawaiian gear and welcome our feeder schools tonight at our football game against Lewis HS! Feeder school students get in free with a paying adult, and students can meet us under the scoreboard at 5:30pm for games and fun. At 6:30pm, students will be lined up to run onto the field, followed by our national anthem, which will be sung by the combined choirs of all Woodson Pyramid schools. #OneWoodson
At our faculty meeting this week, we learned about a new proactive trauma prevention program that will be implemented in our schools, Handle with Care. This new program will equip our staff with timely information to act quickly to meet student needs. This is another example of how our hardworking staff strives to support students both in and out of the classroom.
We also honored two teachers with our first of the year Cav Awards - Ms. Shapiro, Spanish Language Teacher, and Ms. Nowicki, Mathematics Teacher. Both of these teachers have stepped up and taken on multiple roles to support our mission, including mentoring new teachers and leading multiple teams. We are filled with gratitude for all they do.
As you are aware, there are staffing shortages in FCPS; unfortunately, this includes our Food Service staff. Lunch lines are long due to the shortage of staff in the cafeteria lines. If you or anyone you know is interested in a part time job to serve and support our students as a Food Service staff member, please visit the FCPS Job Opportunities website.
I had the opportunity to observe our instructional staff present so many great lessons with high levels of student engagement. Students analyzed their own work when learning how to frame photos in Ms. Forgione’s class and filling out job applications in Mr. Michal’s class. Ms. Vazquez got her students moving and grooving as they worked out whether logical statements were true or not. In social studies, students in Mr. Rosebrock’s class created marketing plans for the original colonies, while Mr. Wright’s students held an ancient civilization smackdown (Maurya won). Students were even making cheese in Ms. Aitchison’s class. It was so good to see the higher level thinking and application of learning!
We are midway through the first quarter, and I want to remind you that there is no school on Monday, September 26th. I hope families will enjoy the long weekend and also take advantage of the time to review their child’s academic progress in SIS ParentVUE. If you need to sign up for ParentVUE, view this link.
As always, reach out if you need anything: kjgreata@fcps.edu. See you tonight!
Mr. Greata
Acting Principal
 Bring the family to Feeder Night tonight, Friday, September 23rd!
In this Issue
NEW News
1. No School on Monday
2. Schedule Change Requests - New Information
3. October 12th - SAT and PSAT/NMSQT School Day
4. AP Exams for Students Not Enrolled in AP Courses
5. Woodson Homecoming Activities
6. Does your student need a dress or suit for Homecoming?
7. Convertibles/Jeeps/Trucks Needed for Homecoming Parade
8. Social Emotional Learner Screener Opt-Out Information
9. Advisory Committee For Students with Disabilities (ACSD)
10. Substance Abuse Prevention Resources
11. FCPS College Fair and Post-Secondary Week
12. College & Career Center News
PAST News, but still important
13. Attendance Procedures
14. School Picture Retakes
15. Math Center Now Open
16. Free Resources from Tutor.com
17. Class of 2023 News
18. World Languages Credit Exam
19. Laptop Tech Support Hours
20. Woodson's PTSO
NEW News
1. No School on Monday
Monday, September 26th, is a student holiday/professional work day for teachers. It is also Rosh Hashanah, the second day of the two-day celebration of the Jewish New Year. See the complete 2022-23 school year calendar.
2. Schedule Change Requests - New Information
As of Tuesday, September 27th, students are able to request schedule changes. Please keep in mind that these are requests and that changing a class is not always possible as classes might be full, other classes may need to change to accommodate the request, and/or that teachers may change as a result…if the request is approved. Below is the procedure for requesting a schedule change:
- Student should come to Student Services in person to speak with their counselor about their schedule change request
- Student’s counselor will give the student the Schedule Change Request Form for the student, parent/guardian, and teacher to sign (all signatures required)
- Student and parent will sign the form, then the student will give the form to the current teacher who will complete their portion and return it to the student
- Student will drop off the completed form (with student, parent/guardian, and teacher signatures as well as teacher input) at the front desk in Student Services
- After the request is reviewed by administration, the counselor will let the student know if the change can be made and, if it is possible, when they will begin their new schedule. The review process may take a couple of days…your patience is appreciated.
3. October 12th - SAT and PSAT/NMSQT School Day
Wednesday, October 12th is SAT and PSAT/NMSQT School Day and a 2-hour early release day.
All students in grades 10-11 will participate in the PSAT/NMSQT. No registration is required.
Only seniors who pre-registered for the test will take the SAT School Day.
More details will be shared directly with individual students via their fcpsschools.net email.
Students in grade 9 and those seniors not testing will not be in school on October 12th. There is no need to contact attendance for these students.
Special education students receiving Cat B services will be in school on October 12th.
4. AP Exams for Students Not Enrolled in AP Courses
Woodson HS offers AP tests for students not enrolled in AP classes based on seat availability/test room capacity.
Non-enrolled students wanting to take the AP test will be accepted on a first come, first served basis. The cost for each exam is $96.00.
Registration forms are available in Student Services. The deadline to register is Friday, October 21st.
 Cav Kudos! These students were recognized for helping Woodson build a great school culture one interaction at a time
5. Woodson Homecoming Activities
Theme: Disco
Homecoming Bonfire - Saturday, October 1st, 8:15 –9 :15pm Pat Cunningham Stadium
Bonfire will take place behind the stadium – enter through stadium main entrance
Spirit Week – Friday, Sept 30 – Friday, October 7
9/30 – Tie Die
10/3 – Dream on – wear pajamas
10/4 – Class Colors (See Schoology)
10/6 – Twin Day – dress like your friend(s)
10/7 – Bicentennial Day – Wear Red, White and Blue
Homecoming Pep Rally – Friday, October 7th at the Football Stadium during 3rd period.
Homecoming Parade – Friday, October 7th, 4:30 – 5:15pm Free Homecoming Dance ticket if you drive your convertible in the Homecoming Parade
Pre-game Pig-out – Friday, October 7th, 5:00 – 6:45pm outside Door #7 by the Outdoor basketball courts. This is a community event for students and parents. Join us for fun, games, face painting, moon bounce, food trucks, and more before the Hoco game.
Admission is free. Students can purchase a wristband for $5 which gets them unlimited turns on the moon bounce obstacle course, one popcorn, one snow cone, one cotton candy.
Homecoming Dance – Saturday, October 8th, 8:00 – 11:30pm
Dance tickets are on sale starting Monday, September 26th and will be sold between the Cafeterias during all lunches (starting on 9/27) and on e-tix (link posted Monday on Schoology). No tickets are sold at the door. The dance attire is semi-formal and tickets cost $20.
Students must get prior approval in order to bring a guest that does not attend Woodson HS. Guest request forms are in the main school office and on Schoology and are due on Thursday, October 6th.
6. Does your student need a dress or suit for Homecoming?
Do you know someone that might need one? We have shoes, necklaces, earrings, clutches!
Students may go to Ms. Treague's classroom in T104 during return periods to see what is available. krtreague@fcps.edu
7. Convertibles/Jeeps/Trucks Needed for Homecoming Parade
Hey Cavalier Family! The Leadership classes need your help! Do you have a convertible, jeep or truck that you are willing to drive in our Homecoming Parade on Friday, October 7th?
Please fill out this Google Form with your contact and vehicle information! Thank you in advance for your help!
 Students are ready for Feeder Night - Hawaiian Out!
8. Social Emotional Learning Screener Opt-Out Information
Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) commits to supporting all students’ mental wellness and social and emotional learning (SEL). The School Board has approved a screener to review students’ skills and experiences in these areas. FCPS staff will use the screener to identify strengths and needs for students in grades K-12. The screener provides information regarding students’ experiences and how staff can support their needs.
SEL skills include self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. The screener will review these skills, as well as students’ relationships, feelings of belonging, feelings about their school environment, and mood. These factors are critical to positive academic, social, and emotional success.
If you do not want your student to take part in the SEL screener, please return the opt-out form found on the FCPS site to their counselor in Student Services no later than Friday, September 30th (either in person or via email).
A new opt-out form must be submitted each school year.
9. Advisory Committee For Students with Disabilities (ACSD)
The Department of Special Services is in need of parent representatives to serve as members of the Advisory Committee for Students with Disabilities (ACSD) for the 2022-2023 school year. The Governance Manual indicates that:
We are looking for parents who are collaborative and invested in examining our current supports and services for students with disabilities, and making recommendations to the School Board around areas of improvement.
If you are interested in serving on this committee, please complete this ACSD interest form.
 The Marching Cavaliers thank the Woodson community for their contributions on Tag Day!
10. Substance Abuse Prevention Resources
Did you know that FCPS has a resource for students who may have concerns regarding substance use?
Each school pyramid has a Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist (SAPS) assigned to provide substance abuse prevention, education, and intervention services. Substance Abuse Prevention Specialists are part of the FCPS Office of Student Safety and Wellness.
Your Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist is: De’Ja Ruffin (McNeil)
Key roles of a Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist:
- Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug education for students, parents, and the Fairfax County Community
- Intervention services upon violation of the Student Rights and Responsibilities handbook or suspected substance use involvement
- Assessing a student’s level of substance use and, if appropriate, making referrals to the Fairfax Community Service Board for additional services or other community resources as appropriate
- Group and individual prevention services for students, staff, parents, and the Fairfax County community
- Most importantly, building positive relationships with students to provide support and encouragement
Resources:
Free Virtual Parent Support Group
Free Online Narcan Training for Opioid Overdoses
Free Lock Boxes for Medications & Firearms
Spiritual Support by Phone for Adults
Spanish Podcast: Tips on How Parents Play an Important Role in Substance Abuse Prevention
Juvenile Court Parent Support Group
For general questions about the FCPS Substance Abuse Prevention Program, please contact the Office of Student Safety & Wellness at: (571) 423-4270.
For further Information & support contact De’Ja Ruffin (McNeil), MSW, Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist, dsmcneil@fcps.edu
11. FCPS College Fair and Post-Secondary Week
High school students and their families are invited to attend the annual FCPS College Fair and Postsecondary Week events.
The College Fair, which will feature admissions representatives from more than 250 colleges and universities from across the United States and abroad, will be held at George Mason University’s Eagle Bank Arena on Sunday, October 16, from 4 to 7 p.m. Postsecondary Week will be held virtually Monday, October 17, to Thursday, October 20, from 5 to 8 p.m. Postsecondary week will feature virtual workshops related to the college admissions process, financial aid, and other postsecondary educational opportunities.
Students are highly encouraged to register in advance for these events.
12. College & Career Center News
Resources for College & Career Exploration are posted in Schoology in the ALL PARENT COURSE and in the ALL SCHOOL STUDENT & STAFF COURSE. Please sign in with your SIS username and password to access. Please email cliebmosley@fcps.edu or call 703-503-4661 if you have any questions. Newsletters are posted here.
Please mark your Calendar for the HBCU Historically Black Colleges & Universities Festival on Oct 7 & 8 hosted by Alfred Street Baptist Church in Alexandria. Please visit here to register. The FCPS College Fair is on Oct 16 and the FCPS Virtual Postsecondary Week Oct 17 – 20. The ALCANZA College Fair for Latinx Students at GMU is schedule for October 19th. Please see your Counselor to register for ALCANZA.
Attention Class of 2023! Financial Aid Night on 6 Oct 2022 at 7 pm in the Fairfax HS Auditorium. Separate Spanish & Arabic Sessions will be available. This is a Paying for College Presentation that will cover the different types and sources of Financial Aid, and how to apply. For additional Financial Aid Presentations, please visit www.collegeaccessfairfax.org.
College Rep Visits for Juniors & Seniors will run until November 18th. Students, please register in Naviance – Colleges – Research Colleges – College Visits. Next week, we will have Williams College, Towson University, Columbia University, Virginia Tech, University of Pittsburgh – Johnstown, University of Virginia’s College at Wise, University of Pittsburgh – Pittsburgh Campus, Marymount University, St. John’s University – NY, High Point University and American University visit Woodson. Please go to our new Calendar to access all of the College & Career Events.
Christine Lieb-Mosley
College and Career Specialist, 703-503-4661
Woodson College & Career Center Padlets
PAST News, but still important
13. Attendance Procedures
Attendance is critical to student success in the classroom.
If your student will be absent from school, a parent/guardian must notify the attendance office. Below is a quick guide for reporting all-day absences, late arrivals, and early check-outs from school.
14. School Picture Retakes
Underclass photo makeups will take place on Friday, October 14th. Senior portrait dates are Monday-Tuesday, November 14th and 15th.
Scheduling information will be sent out in the coming weeks. For questions about ordering, please email underclass@vosphoto.com or seniors@vosphoto.com.
 Student artwork display.
15. Math Center Now Open
Math Center is now open for the 2022-2023 school year. Math Tutors are available during 5th period return, 5th period lunches and after school Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 3:00-3:45pm.
All sessions take place in B208. Look for the Math Center Flag. Tutors are excited to help students!
16. Free Resources from Tutor.com
FCPS students continue to have unlimited access to live, 24/7, one-on-one online tutoring services through Tutor.com at no cost to families during the 2022-23 school year. Student participation is optional and parents/guardians can opt their student(s) out of accessing the services. Detailed information and FAQs are available on the Tutor.com Online Tutoring Services website.
Students can access Tutor.com via a link in Schoology. Additional information about how to log in and access a tutor is provided to families via the following: Elementary - How It Works and Middle & High - How It Works. Questions not answered in the posted resources may be sent to onlinetutoring@fcps.edu.
17. Class of 2023 News
Want to know all the important news and upcoming events for the Class of 2023? Visit the Senior Class News website for everything you need to know.
18. World Languages Credit Exam
The 2022 World Languages Credit Exam will be administered on Thursday, November 3rd, Wednesday, November 9th, and Thursday, November 10th.
Thirty (30) languages will be included: American Sign Language (ASL), Amharic, Arabic, Bengali, Chinese (Mandarin), Farsi, French, German, Greek, Hebrew, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Nepali, Pashto, Portuguese, Punjabi, Russian, Sanskrit, Somali, Spanish, Tagalog, Tamil, Telugu, Tigrinya, Turkish, Twi, Urdu, and Vietnamese.
Registration opens on Tuesday, September 6th at 8:00 a.m. and closes on Thursday, October 6th at 4:00 p.m. Late registrations will not be accepted.
School counselors will register students for the exam. Visit the FCPS Credit exam information page for more information.
19. Laptop Tech Support Hours
If students need FCPS laptop technical support at Woodson HS, please submit a ticket using the FCPS Parent/Student Tech Support Portal.
Our walk-in hours in Room A114 are:
- Odd Days during Learning Seminar
- Monday - 7:45am - 8:10am
- Wednesday - 2:55pm - 4:00pm (when late buses start)
Any other time you should try to make an appointment using a ticket from the Support Portal.
Thank you, W.T Woodson HS Tech Support Team
20. Woodson's PTSO
Our mission is to make every child’s potential a reality by engaging and empowering families and communities to advocate for all children. Whether you are a new or returning WTW parent, please get involved in any way that works for you.
2022-23 PTSO Board -
Miklos Kiss - President
Lena McGinn - VP Membership
Diane Raffaele - Secretary
Kyle Durbin - Treasurer
Jill Battaglia - Communications
PTSO website https://wtwoodsonptso.ptboard.com/annlist
We look forward to a great school year!
Mental Health Resources | 24/7 Emergency Numbers
If you are in crisis, text NEEDHELP to 85511, call 1-800-273-TALK, or dial 911; TTY dial 711
CrisisLink Regional Hotline: 703-527-4077 (CrisisLink is a hotline for individuals in crisis or family/friends seeking guidance for how to help a loved one)
Dominion Hospital Assessment and Referral Line: 703-536-2000
Inova Emergency Services: 703-289-7560
Mobile Crisis Unit: 1-844-627-4747
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK or 1-800-SUICIDE
Merrifield Center Emergency Services: 703-573-5679; TTY dial 711 (The Merrifield Center of the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board, offers a range of clinical programming. Emergency Services, staffed 24 hours per day, seven days per week, works with people in psychiatric crisis who need immediate attention.)
Plan D Nova https://www.plandnova.org/ (a website for Northern Virginia teens who suffer from depression: #breakthestigma)
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