 |
|
Upcoming Events
April 20-22: FX Players Presents: Sister Act
April 21: Cultural Observance Day: Eid al Fitr (begins sundown 4/20)
April 21: Student Holiday
April 24-28: Wellness Week
April 25: FHS Pyramid Event 6:30pm
May 1-18: AP Testing Daily- Volunteers Needed!
May 5: Principal’s Coffee 7:30am, FHS Library
May 9: FHS Chorus Concert 7pm
May 11: FHS Band Concert 7pm
May 16: PTSA Meeting online at Noon
May 16: FHS Orchestra Concert 7pm
May 17: ANG Meeting online at 7pm
May 20: Junior/Senior Prom
|
Included in this issue:
Staff Spotlight:
- Matt Carlin, Fairfax Academy MCT Instructor
- MCT Fest, this Saturday, April 22 @ 7:00pm, Sherwood Center
Fairfax Lions Need to Know:
- Calendar Reminders: April is the Month of the Military Child; Earth Day
- Fairfax County Environmental Quality Advisory Council Student Team
- SR&R Survey - deadline of 8pm Tonight!
- FHS Testing Calendar Info
- FX Players Presents: Sister Act, The Divine Musical Comedy - Tonight!
- FHS Pyramid Wellness and Safety Fair
Fairfax Lions Nice to Know:
- Wellness Week April 24-28
- Athletics Health Physical Night, May 8, FHS Cafeteria
- Tutor.com is Available for ALL students, K-12
- Colleges and Universities Still Accepting Applications
Fairfax Academy Events:
- Fashion in Motion, April 29 @ 5:00pm, Sherwood Center
- Art in Motion Dance Show, May 5 @ 7:00pm FHS Auditorium
- Connect - Contact - Reach Us
Fairfax HS PTSA
- Next Principal's Coffee May 5 @ 7:30am in the Library
- Join the PTSA Board
- Proctor Volunteers Needed this Testing Season
- End of Year Teacher Treats
- All Night Grad News
Acceso de News You Choose en Español: Haga clic aquí.
 Fairfax HS Art students show off their creations at the recent Pyramid Art Show. Many Scholastic winners and nominees among them! We have some creative students and talented students!!
April 21, 2023
It's a Fantastic Fairfax Friday!
The sun is shining, and our lion hearts are warming up for all things in the 4th Quarter. Next week we celebrate Student Wellness Week where we will have fun activities and surprises that allow students' space and place to develop great mindful habits and also decompress before testing season kicks into full gear. We would also like to invite you to attend our Pyramid Resource Fair for parents and families that offers social emotional supports to students in grades K-12, Tuesday, April 25, 6:00-8:30.
Thinking about "What's Next" is always a big question and our Junior Focus day this week was a huge hit as all of our Juniors attended multiple sessions and began planning for life after high school. We provided workshops around essay writing, college applications, resume writing, trade schools, police and fire department, military, and community college. There was something for EVERYONE!
The POG focus of the week was: Creating Creative and Critical Thinkers. We want all students to express thoughts, ideas, and emotions meaningfully through the arts and in their content areas. In a celebration of student voice and talent here at FHS we highlighted some of this amazing work. Our students attended our Fairfax City School Board meeting to offer voices, share success, and provide recommendations for improving their school communities.
Our Fairfax High School Pyramid Art Show was an exemplary display of visual art and photography. The student exhibits on display were a compilation of skill and passion, and each student was able to speak to their medium, their skill, and the evolution of their techniques as they have taken each course.
Did someone say, "Portrait of a Graduate, Presentations of Learning?" Our Spring Theater Production, Sister Act, opened on Thursday, and you don't want to miss our talented student actors and musicians. This show includes a live student orchestra directed by our student conductor and is guaranteed to have you dancing in your seats. If you love music and are looking for even more student talent and expression, you can head to Fairfax Academy's MCT Fest at the Sherwood Center this Saturday. Have a wonderful weekend Fairfax Family!
Every Student, Every Strength, Every Day here at Fairfax High.
Yours in partnership,
  Middle and High School Students participated in a student panel with City of Fairfax Superintendent Jeff Platenberg and school staff.
Matt Carlin, Fairfax Academy Music & Computer Technology (MCT) Instructor
Originally a native of New York, Matthew Carlin moved to Northern Virginia in 2020. He completed his Bachelor of Music Degree in music education and trombone performance at the Eastman School of Music, a Master of Science in music education from CUNY Queens College, and a Master’s Degree in audio technology from American University. Mr. Carlin is a multi-instrumentalist who studied piano, trombone, and voice for over 25 years. He is a professional musician, performer, producer, and engineer passionate about education.
Mr. Carlin began his career in New York, teaching choir and audio engineering to middle and high school students. As a freelance musician, he collaborates with multiple entertainment agencies that provide music for weddings, dueling piano shows, and corporate events. His alternative rock band Night Without Cars has toured nationally alongside acts such as The Plain White T's, Sister Hazel, Andy Grammer, American Authors, Unlikely Candidates, and Switchfoot. Other performances and arrangements took place on national stages, such as NBC's The Sing-Off and Fox's The X-Factor. Mr. Carlin has traveled internationally, performing in countries such as Spain, Kenya, South Korea, and the United Kingdom. After the performance industry closed in 2020, he entered the recording studio and studied audio engineering. Mr. Carlin’s pursuit of knowledge and experience has enabled him to navigate the music industry successfully. He is a registered songwriter through the BMI music group, composing original music with his band and willing collaborators. His work as a music producer is rewarding and a teaching tool for Fairfax Academy's MCT I and II students (Music Computer Technology).
As a resident of Annandale, VA, Mr. Carlin is grateful to be a member of the Fairfax Academy. He is eager and optimistic about becoming an integral part of this remarkable community. Mr. Carlin has been searching for a teaching position that integrates his experiences in the music industry with performance, education, and production. He has big plans for his new home and is thrilled to have found the perfect fit at Fairfax Academy!”
MCT Fest - Tomorrow Night!
Fairfax Academy’s MCT Fest is an annual student-managed festival style event composed of all original songs, lyrics, and music by this year’s MCT level 1 & 2 students. MCT Fest 2023 includes 10+ acts that will encompass Rock, pop punk, Rap, EDM, Jazz, and more. This year, student performers will represent 10 different FCPS high schools (that all attend the Music Computer Technology program (MCT) at Fairfax Academy).
Tickets are $15. Online payments are through Etix, and in-person/live event tickets are paid in cash only. Donations are appreciated, and go right back into the Music Computer Technology program at Fairfax Academy. In-person tickets, are on a first-come-first-serve basis, as the number of guests present cannot exceed 300 people and MCT students are counted in this total number.
Calendar Reminders:
🎖️Thank You for Your Service, Military Families
Military families in the FCPS community share their stories and show their support for all military connected youth in our schools. These students and families face unique challenges, and demonstrate a great deal of resilience and strength. We would like to say, “Thank you for your service,” to all who serve and protect our country, and their families.
Learn more about Month of the Military Child and FCPS’ resources for military families. Sign up for the Military Families newsletter.
See the complete 2022-23 school year calendar.
🌎Earth Day
Earth Week is an engaging way to foster conversation and learning about environmental topics that are essential in developing students as environmental stewards, and ethical and global citizens. Learn about the history of Earth Day (April 22) in National Geographic Kids.
Read more about the Global STEM Challenges program at Edison High School that has students tackling major environmental issues year-round.
Fairfax County Park Authority will host an Earth Day celebration on Saturday, April 22, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Sully Historic Site. Celebrate Healthy People—Healthy Planet with a fun day of entertainment, food vendors, touch-a-truck, prizes, and activities! Learn what Fairfax County is doing to support environmental sustainability and what you can do to help. For more information, visit the Earth Day Fairfax website.
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.
More information and application materials are online here:
https://bit.ly/2Qx2xme
Proposed Updates to the Student Rights & Responsibilities (SR&R) Document
FCPS is in the process of updating the Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R) document for the 2023-24 School Year. If you haven’t already, please provide feedback on the proposed changes by 8 p.m. Friday, April 21. Please check your email for a message from Fairfax County Public Schools, dated Tuesday, April 18, which contains the survey link.
The SR&R provides clear expectations for student behavior, responses to that behavior, and support that may be needed. Our goal is to ensure each and every student's right to an education in a safe, civil, and caring environment.
FHS May Testing Calendar
Attention FHS families, the May Testing Calendar has been posted to the school website here:
https://fairfaxhs.fcps.edu/student-services/student-testing.
The full document can be downloaded here:
May 2023 FHS Testing Schedule.pdf.
PLEASE NOTE:
- If a student is absent: All make-up tests will be scheduled from May 22-June 2.
- If your student has an AP exam and an SOL on the same day – the AP Exam gets taken on schedule.
- For Underclass students, Mon-Thu, June 12-15, is early release at 11:35am; Friday, June 16th is early release at 10:10am and the last day of school.
FX Players Presents: Sister Act -see it TONIGHT!
Come See Sister Act!
A woman hiding in a convent helps her fellow sisters find their voices as she rediscovers her own. Sister Act is the feel-good musical comedy smash based on the hit 1992 film that has audiences jumping to their feet!
Purchase tickets here: https://www.etix.com/ticket/v/15604. You don't want to miss it!
FHS Pyramid Wellness and Safety Fair
Parents, join us Tuesday, April 25 at 6:00pm for an educational evening supporting student wellness and safety! A variety of 30 minute seminars will be offered in 3 sessions to support families of different ages, and information tables will be available at the beginning and end of the evening. Session topic options will include Dealing with Big Feelings (K-6), Trauma in Teens, Gang Prevention and Awareness, Family Resource Center Services, The Parent Project/ Parent Support Group, Child Services Act, Social Media/ Gaming Safety, Communicating Through Reading, or the 2 hour Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS) program (details below). The event is free and open to any parent/guardian in our pyramid.
Information Tables include FCPS Social Workers and Psychologists, Narcan Training, Food Insecurity, Community Support and Resources for English classes, Internet Safety at Home, Cue Bus, City of Fairfax Parks and Rec, Mott Center free after school programs, Be SMART Gun Safety, Community Services Board and Coordinated Services Planning.
For more information on the schedule, each session, and the information tables, visit:
https://johnsonms.fcps.edu/event/fairfax-pyramid-wellness-safety-fair.
The Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS) program is an interactive program for adults to be educated about the signs of risky behavior in teens and young adults. It touches on drug and alcohol use, vaping, mental health and behavioral concerns, risky sexual behaviors, trending "challenges" and more.
This is a hands-on learning adventure for PARENTS AND GUARDIANS ONLY. We guide you through a presentation that opens your eyes to what is right in front of you. This program begins with a “show and tell” of “red flags” that can indicate risky behavior in teens. Times have changed since we were teenagers.
That is followed by an educational portion that includes a presentation detailing more "red flags" and how they are indicative of — or used in — risky behavior. We include up to date statistics and local trends, and law enforcement officers will share their experiences they have had in our community identifying risky behaviors and helping to put kids on the right path to a healthy life. Let’s open the door to communicating with our teens!
FHS Dean of Students, Bruni Herring, is so proud to be a part of this amazing cast which tells the story of Usnavi and his neighbors in the barrio of Washington Heights, the area where Bruni actually grew up. Bruni plays the role of Abuela Claudia who teaches everyone to have “paciencia y fe” (patience and faith). You won’t want to miss this musical written by Lin Manuel Miranda when he was just a sophomore at Wesleyan University in 1999.
The show runs from May 12-June 11th. https://www.nextstoptheatre.org/
Fairfax Lions Nice to Know:
Wellness Week April 24-28
FHS Student Leadership and Student Services will host activities throughout Wellness Week to promote kindness, unity, positive living, and healthy mindsets and habits. Students can join in the Spirit Week festivities and participate in lunch time activities on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, supported by the PTSA. Therapy Dogs will visit during all lunches on Tuesday and Thursday.
The zen continues during Lion Time B where students can enjoy Art, Gym Sports, Bingo, Chalk Art and Alpaca and animal visits. Teachers will have the opportunity to sign up their LT classes to Walk the Track outside or to have games delivered from our *new* game library to their classrooms during LT B.
We are excited to welcome motivational speaker, Sam Anthony, to speak to our 10th and 11th grade students.
Follow Fairfax High School Leadership & Student Services on Instagram for Wellness Week Information: @Fairfaxhslions @FHSStudentServices #FHSWellnessWeek
Athletic Dept. Health Physical Night, May 8
The Athletic Training Program will be hosting our physical night for our annual fundraiser on May 8th in the FHS Cafeteria. This is the only money we get to be able to buy any sort of supplies that we would need for the school year (i.e. tape, wound care, modalities, rehab equipment, etc.). This physical will be good for the 2023-2024 school year. Physical Night registration is now Available. Please use the below link to sign up!
It’s alive!!! 2023 Athletic Physical Registration
While any help would be appreciated we are looking to get a few more medical professionals ( Doctors, PA’s, NPs ect) to sign up to make sure the night runs smoothly.
Here’s the Volunteer form: 2023 Athletic Physical Volunteer Registration.
Tutor.com Services for ALL Students
Does your student need help with homework or preparing for a test? Don’t forget, FCPS students still have no-cost access to Tutor.com 24/7. Do you have questions about the service? View this FAQ.
Colleges and Universities Still Accepting Applications
The National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) has released their annual list of colleges and universities that are still accepting applications from prospective freshmen or transfer students for fall 2023. Students and families are encouraged to use this tool to search colleges that still have space available. Users may narrow down the list of schools by state and view whether a school still has financial aid, as well as unfilled housing.
Additionally, NACAC has created an enrollment deposit fee waiver request form that is considered by some institutions for students experiencing significant financial hardship. Families can learn more about the enrollment deposit fee waiver and eligibility on the NACAC website. Students and families may contact their school counselor, and college and career specialist with any questions.
Check out what else is happening at Fairfax Academy!
Fashion in Motion, April 29
Art in Motion ~ Dances inspired by famous works of Art, May 5 & 6
Tickets on sale starting Friday, April 21st! Purchase Tickets Here!
with us throughout the year by:
Fairfax HS PTSA
Table of Contents:
- Next Principal's Coffee May 5 @ 7:30am in the Library
- Join the PTSA Board
- Proctor Volunteers Needed this Testing Season
- End of Year Teacher Treats
- All Night Grad News
Next Principal's Coffee Friday, May 5
 |
|
Please join us for the next Principal's Coffee on Friday, May 5, 2023, at 7:30am in the school library. Stop in for coffee and conversation with Principal Aye. See you there! |
Join the PTSA Board!
The Fairfax High School PTSA (Parent Teacher Student Association) is looking for parents to serve on the Board during the 2023 - 2024 school year. Our goal is to have the Board reflect our school community and classrooms. Involvement is a big part of your student’s success and what better way than to be at the center! You will be surrounded by community members who are engaged in all aspects of Fairfax High School.
Positions available include: Treasurer, Hospitality and Web Master.
Meetings are currently on the 3rd Tuesday of each month. Everyone welcome, no previous experience necessary.
Please contact the nominating committee at Susan@skares.com if you are interested or want to find out more information.
Proctor Volunteers Needed
Fairfax High School is seeking parent volunteers to help proctor the AP exams being administered May 1-18th. We have many opportunities available to give our students a great exam session. Email or sign up for a time you can work during the school day even if it’s not the whole session:
FHS AP Testing Proctor SignUp
Please note that you cannot proctor an AP exam that your student is scheduled to take and you cannot be in the same room with any family member. If you have any questions, please email Leslie Trieu at latrieu@fcps.edu.
End of Year Teacher Treats!
Hard to believe we are in the final months of school! Help the PTSA treat our teachers and staff one last time with fun goody bags for summer. Please send donations to school by May 12 so that our students in the adapted curriculum can build their job skills and assemble the gift bags before the end of the year. Purchase items from the FHS PTSA Amazon Wish List or drop off those items in the school office CLEARLY LABELLED for Staff Appreciation. Or email Jen Seifert to make other delivery arrangements liledjen4901@gmail.com.
Thanks for your generosity!
All Night Grad News
Graduation is just 2 months away! For those not aware, the All Night Grad celebration will be held at the St. James on the night of graduation and is open to all seniors. It is a 30+ year tradition, hosted by senior parents with support from the PTSA and is a great way to celebrate your seniors with their classmates in a safe environment. To help, sign up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F4EA9A62FA7F58-allnight.
 |
|
Do you want to celebrate a Fairfax employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way, or goes beyond what is expected? If so, then click here to share with everyone. |
|
