Important Upcoming Dates
2022-2023 School Year
April 20 - Eid al-Fitr - 1/2 Observation Day
April 21 - Eid al-Fitr - Observation Day and Student Holiday (see below) McLean High School Offices will be closed
April 25 - NOVA Field Trip for Current Seniors
April 27 - Big Mac Interest Meeting (see below)
May 1 - Partners in Safe Teen Driving Seminar (see below)
May 1-12 - AP Testing Schedule (see below)
May 15-19 - SOL Schedule (see below)
May 23-26 - Senior Exams
May 29 - Memorial Day
May 20 - MHS Prom, Falls Church Marriott Fairview Park
June 1 - Senior Trip to Busch Gardens
June 2 - Convocation
June 5 - Baccalaureate (see below)
June 6 - Graduation at DAR Constitution Hall, 2:30 pm
Journalism Students Recognized
 For the 6th year in a row, McLean High School Journalism students were recognized by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors for receiving the Freedom of the Press Award. Congratulations Highlanders!
This Week
Progress Reports and Report Cards Unavailable 4/13 - 4/25
FCPS Weekly Progress Reports will not be send to parents Thursday, April 13 through Tuesday, April 25th during third quarter grading and report card generation.
Additionally, the GradeBook and Report Card modules in ParentVue and StudentVue will be closed on Thursday, April 13 at 4:00 pm until Tuesday, April 25th at 6:00 am.
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Eid al-Fitr (½ Observation Day on April 20, Student Holiday April 21) |
Eid al-Fitr, also known as small Eid, marks the end of Ramadan, the Muslim holy month of fasting, and is celebrated during the first three days of Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic calendar.Muslims congregate that morning for Eid prayers. It is a time of official receptions and private visits, when friends greet one another, presents are given, new clothes are worn, and the graves of relatives are visited. The most common way to wish someone a Happy Eid al-Fitr is Eid Mubarak, which means “blessed feast” (or festival). Read more at Britannica.com.
FCPS has designated Eid al-Fitr as a religious and cultural observance day designed to allow students the opportunity to miss school for observances not already designated as school holidays. Eid al-Fitr is from sunset April 20 to sunset April 21. Thursday, April 20, is a half O Day, and Friday, April 21, is a holiday (only 12 month employees report).
Please note that McLean High School offices will be closed on Friday, April 21st.
AP Testing Early Release & Late Arrival Pre-Arranged Absence
The main testing window for AP exams is below. With parent/guardian permission, McLean HS students are allowed to be released early following an AP exam and arrive late before their scheduled AP exam. All pre-arranged absence notes (no phone calls please) are due to Ms. Yates in the attendance office by April 20th. Please keep in mind that all classes will continue with instruction during AP testing, and that students are responsible for all assignments from each class. Here are the links to the early release permission slip, late arrival permission slip, and printed out copies will be available in the main office.
McLean HS SOL Schedule
The main SOL testing dates will occur between Monday, May 15, and Friday May 19. It is important that your student attend school on these days and have a good night’s rest and a healthy breakfast before testing. If your child has an unavoidable conflict that could result in missing a testing day, they will be moved to a makeup date prior to May 26.
The Virginia Department of Education requires high school students enrolled in an SOL course to take the EOC test if the student needs a verified credit for graduation or if the student has not yet met federal testing requirements (1 Math, 1 Reading, and 1 Biology SOL attempt taken during grade 9-12). Students who have met the testing requirements for graduation and federal accountability do not test. If you have questions about SOL testing, please contact your child’s school counselor.
Spring Band Raffle Day - 4/22
McLean Highlander Band students will out in the community performing at local shopping centers on Saturday, April 22. Please keep an eye out for these groups and consider donating to our band program. Any amount you can spare will be much appreciated! All funds will be used to help pay for equipment, uniforms, trips, and instruction. Thanks for your support!
McLeadership: Big Mac Interest Meeting - 4/27
We have made some changes to the McLeadership program for the 2023-2024 school year and are excited to share the program updates with students. We will hold an interest meeting on Thursday, April 27 during Highlander Time 2 (10:34 am-11:14 am) in the auditorium. All current sophomores and juniors who are interested in being Big Macs for the 2023-2024 school year should attend. If your student is interested and unable to attend, please have them email Emily Geary (emgeary@fcps.edu) and Greg Olcott (gtolcott@fcps.edu).
Need a Dress for Prom?
McLean's Prom is May 20th! See the resouces below for assistance with dresses, shoes and accessories.
End of Year Medication Pick-up
As the end of our school year approaches, please be reminded that all medications kept in the Health Room must be picked up by the end of the school year. Per FPCS regulations, any medications that remain in the Health Room after close of business on the last day of school must be destroyed.
For SENIORS: The last day of classes will be May 26th. Seniors who have medications may keep them in the Health Room until after AP testing and graduation activities are complete.
For ALL OTHER STUDENTS: The last day of classes is June 16th.
Prescription Medications (Epi-pens, Inhalers, ADHD, etc.) : Must be picked up by a parent. Please sign in at the main office. PLEASE NOTE: if a student self-carries their epi-pen or inhaler and keeps one in the health room, the student may pick it up.
Over-the-counter Medication: Students may pick up these medications and take them home. They may be picked up at the end of the day between 2:45-3:00pm any time before the end of the year.
All medications must be picked up by 11:00am, June 16th.
Please contact School Health Aide, Julie Gamboa, with any questions. jgamboa@fcps.edu
2023 Baccalaureate Service - 6/5
Monday June 5th at 5:00pm
Temple Rodef Shalom, 2100 Westmoreland St, Falls Church, VA 22043
McLean High School Seniors, their families, and guests are invited to attend the 2023 Baccalaureate Service. The Baccalaureate Service is a long-standing tradition for parents of graduating seniors at McLean High School to organize an interfaith graduation service for students and their families. Baccalaureate services date to the 1400s and mark the milestone of graduation with prayer and song. The service includes prayers and reflections from faith leaders in our area as well as from Class of 2023 students.
If you would like to serve on the Baccalaureate committee, or would like to participate as a speaker, prayer leader, and/or music performer, please contact Julie Smith at jds342000@gmail.com.
To donate food, drink, decorations, time or funds to this time-honored tradition, please sign-up here.
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Month of the Military Child |
April is the Month of the Military Child! Every year we take the opportunity to recognize military-connected youth for their service and contribution to our community. Fairfax County Public Schools is proud to have over 14,000 military-connected youth as a part of our student body. We appreciate the varied life experiences they bring to our school community, and recognize their strength and resilience. Learn more about Month of the Military Child and FCPS’ resources for military families.
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National Arab American Heritage Month |
FCPS is proud to celebrate National Arab American Heritage Month in April. This special month provides an opportunity to recognize the remarkable history and valuable contributions of Arab Americans. Arab Americans have ancestry in one of the world’s 22 Arab nations, which are located from northern Africa through western Asia. The people of these nations are ethnically, politically, and religiously diverse but share a common cultural and linguistic heritage. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.
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School Library Month |
Every April school librarians are encouraged to host activities to help their school and local community celebrate the essential role that strong school libraries play in transforming learning.
In FCPS libraries, students develop knowledge and skills, experience a sense of belonging, find inspiration and support, and have the ability to freely pursue their personal interests and academic growth. Watch this video to learn how FCPS librarians make a difference.
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Autism Acceptance Month |
April is Autism Acceptance Month. One in 44 children is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder in the United States, according to the CDC. Our schools and staff play a vital role in creating and ensuring inclusive environments that accommodate and affirm autistic students.
From FCPS
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Community Meeting - Dangers of Fentanyl |
Last month, the division hosted a conversation on the dangers of fentanyl. During this impactful event, audience members heard testimonials from individuals affected by the opioid epidemic and learned facts from medical experts and law enforcement representatives.
The conversation will continue on Monday, April 24, 6:30 to 8 p.m., at Woodson High School. Transportation will be available from select schools throughout the county. View the registration page for details.
Visit our Opioid Awareness webpage for more information. Visit the Fairfax County Government webpage on opioids for information on how you can take action and how to get help for yourself or loved ones.
Medicaid Enrollment Underway
If you have Medicaid/FAMIS/CHIP health insurance, the Medicaid Enrollment Processes began in March. The Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) (Virginia Medicaid) has started to review Medicaid members’ health coverage to determine whether members are eligible for coverage. DMAS will not cancel or reduce coverage for members without asking for updated information, but they need your help to make this a smooth process.Make sure your current mailing address, email, and phone numbers are up-to-date so that important information about your coverage gets to you. Update your contact information today online at commonhelp.virginia.gov, or by calling Cover Virginia at 1-855-242-8282 or your local Department of Social Services.If you need any assistance or have any questions, contact Cover Virginia at 1-855-242-8282 or your local Department of Social Services.
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No-Cost Mental Health Teletherapy for High School Students Now Available! |
FCPS has partnered with Hazel Health to offer virtual mental health services to high school students via live video sessions. Parents/caregivers who have been struggling to find a therapist for their child or who notice changes in their child’s behavior are able to connect them virtually with a licensed therapist. Teletherapy is available Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m.-7 p.m. The first step for parents is to provide information through an opt-in form. Visit FCPS’ Teletherapy webpage for details.
Proposed Updates to the Student Rights and Responsibilities Document
FCPS is in the process of updating the Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R) document for the 2023-24 School Year. The SR&R provides clear expectations for student behavior, responses to that behavior, and support that may be needed. Parents/caregivers, please check your email for a link from FCPS regarding a brief survey on proposed changes to the SR&R. The survey will close at 8 p.m., on Friday, April 21.
All responses to the survey are anonymous. The information provided will be used to revise the SR&R document that is presented to the School Board for approval in June.
Webinars for Parents/Caregivers
FCPS’ Parent Resource Center (PRC) is dedicated to helping adults support the success of all students. Upcoming PRC webinars include:
Presented by School Social Work Services, students in grades 2-6 will be able to share sibling experiences, receive peer support, play games, and more. This event takes place at Providence Community Center.
Presented by Career and Transition Services, students with disabilities seeking a standard or advanced diploma and their families are invited to this event that provides an introduction to options available after high school. This event takes place at Woodson High School.
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Neurodiversity at High School, Friday, April 28, at 10 a.m.Kristen Haynor, a neurodiversity specialist, will share strategies on setting your child up for success (no matter how their brain functions), advocating for your child, and collaborating with your child’s school. This event is virtual.
Click on the titles above to register.
Fairfax County Environmental Quality Advisory Council Student Team
The Fairfax County Environmental Quality Advisory Council (EQAC) is seeking a student member to join the council for the July 2023 through June 2024 term.
EQAC’s primary function is to make recommendations to the Board of Supervisors for improving environmental protection and enhancement, including preparing an annual report on the state of the physical environment in Fairfax County. Each year, the council also administers the Environmental Excellence Awards to recognize individuals, organizations, businesses, and employees for advancing or supporting the county’s environmental goals and policies.
EQAC is composed of one citizen representative from each of nine magisterial districts, four at large members, and one student representative. The council generally meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 7:15 p.m.
The student member application is open to all interested Fairfax County high school sophomores and juniors who are in good standing. To apply, complete and submit the student application form. All applications must be received by 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, May 3.
ESSER III COVID Relief
FCPS received Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER III) Funding in the fall of 2021. The funds are being used to support the safe operation of schools and address the impacts of COVID-19 on students.
ESSER III focus areas include:
- ensuring continuity of learning services and addressing students’ academic needs.
- maintaining the health and safety of students, educators, and other staff.
- addressing student wellness including their social, emotional, mental health, and other needs.
FCPS would like your feedback on how well the school division is responding to the areas above. Please complete this Online Feedback Form, which will be open through Friday, May 5. Your input will inform the School Board and FCPS staff on the community’s view of our work.
The Fairfax County School Board will hear public comment on ESSER III in-person instruction and continuity of services plan on Thursday, April 27, at 6 p.m., at Jackson Middle School. Register to speak at the ESSER III public hearing. See how FCPS is using ESSER funds to impact student success.
Strategic Planning
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Forum on Draft Goals for FCPS' New Strategic Plan
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Join us for our final virtual community forum on Monday, April 17, from 6 to 7:30 p.m., and see how your feedback has helped shape the latest draft of the new FCPS Strategic Plan. The community forum is open to staff, students, parents/caregivers, and community members. Please register by clicking on the date above.
We appreciate your continued involvement throughout every step of this important process. Together, we will help ensure a thriving future for each and every FCPS student. Visit our Strategic Planning webpage.
Weekly Reminders
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Talking Points for Families |
McLean High School in cooperation with Fairfax County Public Schools will begin using Talking Points to communicate with families about student performance in school throughout the remainder of the year. We recommend families download the free TalkingPoints for Families mobile app. You can also opt in to text messages (standard message fees apply) or you can sign up online at families.talkingpts.org/welcome. To get started, please follow the instructions below.
Step 1: Use the QR codes or the icons in your phone to visit the App Store or Google Play on your phone and download the Talking Points for Families app.
Step 2: Choose your preferred language and then enter your phone number in the app. You will receive a code to enter next.
Step 3: You should see your student’s classes in your app and can begin receiving messages from teachers. When you receive a message you will be able to conduct a 2-way conversation via text or the app with your student’s teachers.
Partners in Safe Teen Driving Seminar (PSTD)
As part of the FCPS Health and PE curriculum, all 10th grade students enrolled in Health & PE 10 complete one quarter of classroom Driver Education. As part of the Driver Education curriculum, students are required to attend the Partners in Safe Teen Driving Presentation, in person, with at least one parent or guardian. Successful completion of classroom Driver Education AND attendance by the student and parent/guardian enables the student to obtain the DEC-District 8 completion card needed to pursue obtaining a Virginia driver’s license. While it is recommended that the PSTD seminar requirement be satisfied during the quarter in which the student is taking classroom driver education, students are welcome to attend any quarter within their 10th grade year. All seminars will be held in-person from 6:30-8:00 PM in the auditorium. Please arrive early. Doors will close promptly at 6:30. Attendees who arrive late will not be allowed entry and will not earn credit for attending.
The 90-minute PSTD presentation will be offered once per quarter throughout the school year. McLean High School’s dates for the 2022-2023 calendar year are below. Please make sure to use your student’s fcpsschools.net account to log in and fill out the form.
May 1st - 5/1 Sign-Up Sheet
Important: Students who successfully complete their classroom driver education quarter but have not satisfied the PSTD requirement will have earned an incomplete for the class grade until the requirement is met.
This program is available to FCPS students enrolled in grade 10 health and physical education at no charge. Students who are completing classroom instruction through a commercial driving school, are home schooled, are enrolled in another school division, or are FCPS students in grade 11 or 12 must register to attend the 90-minute PSTD seminar. A $30 fee applies, and registration is available through FCPS Adult and Community Education (aceclasses.fcps.edu).
McLean HS Tech Support for Students
If you are experiencing issues with your FCPS issued laptop, please use the link below to enter your information. The tech support team will then get back to you as soon as possible.
We will continue to support students remotely as much as possible. If a computer has been identified as needing hands-on repair, we will schedule an appointment for you to come to the school to exchange it.
Description: This form should be filled out by a student if they are experiencing issues with their FCPSOn laptop.
Please click on the link below to access the Tech Support Request Form.
Parent/Student Support Portal Link:
https://itweb.fcps.edu/itsupport/
Social-Emotional Support Information
Mental Health and Wellness Support Services and Resources
McLean’s Clinical Staff are available to consult with parents and students regarding mental health related concerns and behaviors. They are also able to provide community resources as needed. Please see their contact information below:
Carol Ann Forrest, School Psychologist, CMForrest@fcps.edu
Beverly Parker-Lewis, School Psychologist, baparkerlewi@fcps.edu
Marly Jerome-Featherson, School Social Worker, mjeromefeath@fcps.edu
For more Mental Health and Wellness Information, please check out these Student Wellness Resources, FCPS’s Healthy Minds Blog and the FCPS’s Parent Resource Center.
Emergency Resources
Crisis Link Regional Hotline 703-527-4077
Crisis Text Text NEEDHELP to 85511
Dominion Hospital Emergency 703-536-2000
INOVA Emergency 703-289-7560
Merrifield Center Emergency 703-573-5979 TTY dial 711
Life Threatening 911
FCPS Cares
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Do you know a McLean High School 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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