Important Dates
- 2/22 - Bus Driver Appreciation Day
- 3/2 - 2 Hr. Early Release
- 3/3 - Student Holiday
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Congratulations...
To Peter Lake for being recognized as an employee who shows that FCPS Cares!
Mr. Lake definitely is a compassionate man, who really cares about the students a lot. He goes the extra mile to make students feel comfortable, safe, and always has been a professional person who makes a difference.
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CTE Spotlight
In honor of CTE Month, we would like to spotlight our Technology Education program. Mr. Howland, our TechEd teacher has partnered with a program called Hands on Harvest (HOH), in which students are currently building a FarmBot Genesis, which will be capable of performing the entire farming process autonomously! When the FarmBot is completed, students will be analyzing the energy required to use a FarmBot and the associated carbon footprint!
Way to go, Mr. Howland and TechEd students!
Softball Spirit Wear
Softball season has arrived! Please help support our program by purchasing some awesome spirit wear at this link.
If you have any questions about delivery/pick up please reach out to Meg McCabe (mkmccabe@fcps.edu)! The site will close Sunday 2/26. Go jags!
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School Board Approves 2023-24 School Year Calendar
The Fairfax County School Board approved a calendar for the 2023-24, 2024-25, and 2025-26 school years at their February 9 meeting. Learn more about the approved calendar.
The first day of the 2023-24 school year will be Monday, August 21, and the last day will be Wednesday, June 12.
From our Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist (SAPS)
Spotlight on Trauma & Coping
It is February and a time when the recognition and promotion of the resilience and contributions of African Americans is celebrated. Historical trauma is critical to understanding black mental health. African Americans have always thrived through the connection of family. There is an intersection between trauma, coping, and substance misuse. Studies show that about 61% of adults have had at least one adverse childhood experience (ACE) according to the CDC. Childhood trauma manifests in many ways and when carried into adulthood, it can create a cycle of adverse experiences that affect future generations.
Trauma prevention and intervention strategies are more important than ever in post-COVID. During the height of the pandemic there were heightened feelings of unsafety, struggles with increased time spent in stressful family environments. Earlier ACEs studies highlighted traumatic events in the household as primary factors leading to future substance abuse, misuse, and lack of feeling safe and secure. Current ACEs studies have expanded the categories of traumatic events to include experiences such as exposure to racism, discrimination, and historical trauma. Effective coping skills or a brilliant strategy increases levels of resilience and feelings of wellbeing.
Coping strategies include:
- Developing healthy relationships (internal and external support)
- Teaching self-regulation skills
- Encouragement
- Increasing self-esteem
- Promoting independence and strength
- Modeling healthy behavior when dealing with difficult situations
- Early intervention and mental health care
Resources:
Why Historical Trauma is Critical to Understanding Black Mental Health
Addressing Childhood Trauma Starts with Family Support
Violence Prevention
ACEs and Minorities
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:
Anna Teeter
Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist
amteeter@fcps.edu
College Board National Recognition Program Scholarships
The College Board’s National Recognition Programs’ scholarship applications for students open on Wednesday, February 15. You can find information about these opportunities in the student flier. College Board has identified students who are eligible to apply, and students identified by College Board will receive an email invitation from the College Board. Students are also able to nominate themselves by visiting bigfuture.org/NRP.
Low-Cost Internet for Free and Reduced-Price Eligible Students
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a new Federal Communications Commission (FCC) program to lower internet costs for families with children who have been eligible for free or reduced-price meals within the last 12 months. A qualifying household will receive $30 per month toward internet services and a one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet. Families can check their eligibility and register at AffordableConnectivity.gov or by calling 877-384-2575.
Student Bus Passes
Did you know: All Fairfax County middle and high school students can get a Student Bus Pass to ride the Fairfax Connector and Fairfax CUE bus for free. Fares are free from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week, all year, with the pass. Learn more about Student Pass online. Complete the application and return it to your school office.
Additionally, Connector and Metrobus are issuing SmarTrip cards to students at Justice, Annandale, Falls Church, and Marshall High Schools, and the Davis Center for use on specific routes in Northern Virginia. Visit the website to learn more and view the routes. Complete the application and return it to your school office.
Useful Links/Information
FCHS Bell Schedule
Schoology
SIS ParentVUE
FCPS 22-23 School Year Calendar
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FCPS Cares
Do you know a Falls Church
HS or FCPS employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way or goes
beyond what is expected? If so, then click here to
share with everyone.
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