McLean HS: Dr. Reilly's Monday Message 4/24/2023

Important Upcoming Dates

2022-2023 School Year

April 25 - NOVA Field Trip for Current Seniors 

April 27 - Big Mac Interest Meeting (see below)

May 1-5 - Teacher Appreciation Week

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 20 - MHS Prom (see below)

May 23-26 - Senior Exams

May 29 - Memorial Day

May 20 - MHS Prom, Falls Church Marriott Fairview Park (see below)

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


Thank You!

Librarian Appreciation

Librarian Appreciation Day!

Thank you so much to our amazing school librarians! We appreciate all they do to provide an inviting space for our students to explore their many interests through a carefully curated collection of literature, mentor texts and premier research materials.  

Pictured: Morgan Popma, Joan McCarthy and Nikki Kong


Student Achievement

VA Math League 

McLean High School recieved 1st place in the VA Math League!  The overall winner of the Math competition is 9th grader, Jeffrey Lin!  He had the highest score of all participants. The following students received first place for their grade level:

Minsik Choi - 12th grade

Junyoug Chang - 11th grade

Aiden Feyerherm - 10th grade

Jeffrey Yin - 9th grade

Congratulations to our entire VA Math League team!  


This Week

McBook Drive - 4/24-4/28

Book Drive

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. 


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). 


Next Week

Teacher Appreciation Week - 5/1-5/5

Please join us in celebrating our teachers for Teacher Appreciation Week, May 1-5. We appreciate all that they do for our students, our school and our community!


Testing Information

McLean HS AP Testing Schedules - 5/1-5/12

AP Exam schedules were sent out to students on Friday, April 21 to their FCPS Gmail accounts. If students have any questions, please reach out to the Assessment Coach Elly Donlen (ekdonlen@fcps.edu). 

Students should arrive at their testing location by 7:45am for morning AP exams, and by 11:45am for afternoon AP exams. Afternoon testing will go past 2:55PM, and there aren’t late buses for AP Testing. Please make sure to arrange a ride with your student between 3:30-4:00 pm.

AP Exam Schedule

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.

MHS SOL Schedule

Coming Up

Prom

Prom: The Roaring Twenties - 5/20

The McLean High School Prom will take place on Saturday, May 20, 2023 at the Hilton McLean Tysons Corner Hotel in McLean from 8:00 pm - 11:30 pm. Tickets are on sale Monday, April 17th through MySchoolBucks and will be on sale until Tuesday, May 18th at 3:00 pm.  The cost of prom tickets will be $65.00 per ticket.  Students may purchase a maximum of two tickets. If you are bringing a date who does not attend McLean High School, you must fill out a guest form. Tickets can be picked up during all lunches Tuesday, May 16 - Thursday, May 18 (please be sure to print out and bring your receipt from MySchoolBucks when picking up tickets). Tickets will not be sold at the door.


Need a Dress for Prom?

McLean's Prom is May 20th! See the resouces below for assistance with dresses, shoes and accessories. 

Prom

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.


April Focus

Month of the Military Child

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


Arab American Heritage Month

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.


School Library Month

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.


Autism Acceptance Month

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

dangers of fentanyl

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.


Safety and Security Town Hall

On Monday, May 8, FCPS will hold a town hall to discuss our approach to safety and security and the work we do every day to keep our schools safe. FCPS staff and experts will review our risk assessment processes, the physical measures we already have in place to protect our students and staff, pilot programs to detect vaping, and how we communicate and collaborate with our partners when there is an incident at our schools. Please stay tuned for additional details.


Colleges and Universitites 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 the fall of 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, 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. It is recommended that students and families contact their school counselor and college and career specialist with any questions.


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 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.

  • 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.


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.


Weekly Reminders

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

FCPS Cares

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.