To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.
Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.
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UPCOMING EVENTS
Saturday, 12/10 – Choral Department: Breakfast With Santa
Tuesday, 12/13 – Orchestra Concert
Wednesday 12/14 – Choir Concert
Monday, 12/19 - Monday, 01/02 – Holiday (Winter Break)
West Springfield Choral Department Presents...
Click image to purchase tickets.
School Office Hours During Winter Break
WSHS Office Hours during Winter Break will be by appointment only 12/19 through 12/22, and 12/26 through 12/30.
- The office will be closed on 12/23, 12/26 and 1/2/23.
- The office will re-open on Tuesday, 1/3/23.
Free, On-Demand, Online Tutoring
FCPS students who’ve used Tutor.com have provided positive feedback:
- “This tutor was very helpful! She didn't tell me the answers. When needed, she helped me solve them! She was very kind and she really helped me!” –Elementary Math Student
- “This was an awesome tutor! She explained why I needed to do specific steps, and she gave me practice problems! Best tutor I have had!” –IB Chemistry Student
Unless they’ve been opted out, students can access Tutor.com through Schoology. Every session is personalized to meet students’ needs from remedial to advanced levels. Sessions focus on conceptual learning and critical thinking—not quick answers.
Learn more on FCPS’ Tutor.com webpage.
Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!
Every year, absences increase in the weeks before and after winter break. Give your child the gift of education and help build a habit of attendance. Visit our website for more attendance resources.
SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES
Coaching Vacancies
We are seeking coaches for the following Spring sport:
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Boys JV Lacrosse Coach
- Boys Assistant Tennis Coach
If interested, or if you know someone who could serve in this position, contact Student Activities Office, (703) 913-3860 or email our DSA, Leah Conte lmconte@fcps.edu
 Spartan Athletic Boosters
Our Athletic Booster Club is up and running and our current board is looking for more volunteers to help out. They have a few committee Chair positions open and are looking for willing volunteers to serve. Send an email if you are interested in helping out. At the very least please follow us on Social Media for the latest, most up to date information!
- Spirit Wear Chair: Vacant
- Communications Chair: Vacant
- Scholarship Chair: Vacant
Upcoming Sports Events, Week of December 11 - 17
Click image for access to full WSHS Athletic Calendar.
Stay in Touch with Spartan Sports!
You can follow WSHS Spartan Sports on social media:
Twittter: @wshssports
YouTube Channels: LINK
Sign Up For the NEW Sports and Activities News You Choose
Click Image to access sporting events and club activities happening across the entire school.
Performing Arts
Winter Concerts
Get in the holiday spirit by joining our Performing Arts programs in their annual winter concerts.
All performances are free and will be held in our school Auditorium, beginning at 7pm. Enter through Door #5 via the Sports Lobby.
- Tuesday, December 13 – Orchestra Concert
- Wednesday December 14 – Choir Concert
Yearbook: Senior Ads
Parents desiring to purchase a Senior Ad in the yearbook can do so through Winter Break. Access this LINK.
...and ORDER YOUR YEARBOOK, LIKE NOW!
Site: Order online at www.yearbookordercenter.com
WSHS Order Number: 4150
Please email Ms. Melissa Morgan with any questions.
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FCPS INFORMATION
Superintendent Community Conversations
FCPS Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid continues to get to know families and their needs across the division through her Community Conversations. Two virtual events are being planned for this winter. The first will take place on Monday, December 12, at 7pm, followed by a Spanish-language event on Friday, January 12, at 11am. Click the dates of the conversations to register for either event.
Heads Up for Winter Weather
In case you missed it last week, here’s a reminder of FCPS’ inclement weather procedures. The first five inclement weather days will be traditional “snow days” with no school activities.
After those five days, we will hold virtual learning days, whenever possible, to maintain continuity of learning. Virtual learning on these days will be synchronous (live) instruction following the inclement weather virtual learning day schedule which includes a two-hour delay.
Visit FCPS' Weather Cancellation Procedures page to stay informed in case of winter weather or other emergency situations.
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COVID Diagnostic Testing in January
Mark your calendars! COVID diagnostic testing will be available for FCPS teachers, staff, and students at five locations across the county January 3-5 from 5 to 8pm. This testing is for those who are either experiencing COVID symptoms or have been exposed to someone diagnosed with COVID. Appointments are not required, but registration must be completed before testing. Visit the COVID Testing webpage for more information.
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COVID-19 Vaccination (Fairfax County Health Department)
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FCPS Parent Resource Center
SchoolMessenger Quick Tip Form
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FCPS Cares
2022-23 Standard School Year Calendar
COMMUNITY INFORMATION
Spotlight on Drugs: Mental Health, Coping & Addiction
One in four Americans suffers from a mental illness. Almost three in five people with mental illness will receive no treatment or medication. In 2019, an estimated 47.6 million adults (19% of the country) had a mental illness, but only 43% received any kind of mental health care (Johns Hopkins).
There are many reasons why a person may turn to drugs or alcohol initially, including using these mind-altering substances as a coping mechanism for stress, difficult emotions, physical ailments, and other issues. Drugs and alcohol can provide a temporary respite from reality and everyday life. They can enhance pleasure and decrease inhibitions and anxiety. Drug use can be an unhealthy coping mechanism. Coping mechanisms are habits formed over time that serve to help a person manage situations or stress levels. Not all coping mechanisms are maladaptive or destructive. Addiction, however, is both.
Before using drugs as a coping strategy here are some recommendations for a healthier mindset. The goal is to identify the “void” or issue and work towards healing. In the meantime, experts recommend diet and exercise as great places to start. See your Primary Care Physician and a therapist if needed. Quality sleep is also a major factor in a healthy mind. Surround yourself with good people and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
For general questions about the FCPS Substance Abuse Prevention Program, please contact the Office of Student Safety & Wellness at: (571) 423-4270.
Resources:
For further Information & support, contact Ken Johnson, Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist.
Need Help? Contact our Family Liaison
If you have questions about navigating the school, learning about FCPS resources, or getting your student setup for success, our Family Liaison can help. Email, or call (703) 913-3830, to set up an appointment.
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