Important Upcoming Dates
2022-2023 School Year
May 15-19 - SOL Schedule (see below)
May 20 - MHS Prom (see below)
May 23-26 - Senior Exams
May 26 - Senior Laptop Return - Students not participating in HIP (see below)
May 29 - Memorial Day
May 20 - MHS Prom, Falls Church Marriott Fairview Park (see below)
June 2 - Convocation
June 5 - Baccalaureate (see below)
June 6 - Graduation at DAR Constitution Hall, 2:30 pm
June 6 - All Night Grad Party, 11pm - 4am (see below)
June 12-15 - Underclassment Laptop Return (See below)
July 17-19 - AP Boot Camp (see below)
Thank you!
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National School Nurse Appreciation Day
McLean High School celebrated National School Nurse Day last week. We appreciate Julie Gamboa, McLean's amazing Clinic Room Aide and Janet Stein, our wonderful Public Health Nurse for helping to keep our students healthy! Thank you!
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MHS Students Attend ICDC |
McLean High School students Aadil Singh, Nico Christopfferson, and Sebastian Cohen, attended the DECA International Career Development Conference, held in Orlando, Fla., April 22-25. Sebastian Cohen was one of thirty-three Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) students from six high schools who earned DECA’s highest honors at the conference.
DECA is a career and technical student organization that prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs to be college- and career-ready. The competitions are designed to simulate real-life business scenarios and test students’ academic understanding and skills development.
Click HERE to read more about the award.
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VHSL Creative Writing Results Announced
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This year, McLean High School placed 5th in the entire state of Virginia for best Creative Writing. Additionally, juniors Sara Smith and Abigail Sterner placed 3rd and 4th in state respectively for best fiction piece.
Creative Non-Fiction
“The Ultimate Tragedy of Getting Older” – Natalia Colder, 10th grade
“How to be a Dancer” – Jennifer Li, 12th grade
Fiction
“Aquaphor” –Sara Smith, 11th grade
“The Sorrow of the Lady of Shalott” – Abigail E. Sterner, 11th grade
Poems
“Reflection” – Sofia Silva de Araujo, 12th grade
“Listen” – Makda Bekele, 12th grade
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MHS Book Drive |
McLean High School's April Book Drive was a success! The book drive, organized by senior Olivia Zhang, generated about 150 books that were dropped of at McLean Child's Play for C.L.A.P. They said "Because of you and your book drive, underserved children will receive books and a chance for a better life. Children who are not good readers by the third grade have a 66% possibility of dropping out of school or being incarcerated. You and the students at Mclean High School should be proud of what you have done to pass on the gift of literacy.”
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VMEA Blue Ribbon Award |
Congratulations to our Band, Orchestra, and Choral Programs for being recognized as a VMEA Blue Ribbon School for 2023.
The VMEA Blue Ribbon Award is the highest award given to schools music programs in the Commonwealth of Virginia and recognizes achieved excellence in Band, Orchestra, and Choral Performance. All disciplines in a school must receive a rating of "Superior" at assessment to qualify for this award.
Pictured from left to right:
Orchestra Director - Starlet Smith
Choir Director - Linda Martin
Director of Bands - Chris Weise
Associate Director of Bands - Deidra Denson
The Dangers of Fentanyl Meeting 5/15
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Prom: The Roaring Twenties
May 20
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The McLean High School Prom will take place on Saturday, May 20, 2023 at the Fairview Marriott, Falls Church 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.
Prom Information
Prom Volunteers Needed
The McLean High School Prom will take place on Saturday, May 20, 2023 at the Fairview Marriott, Falls Church from 8:00 pm to 11:30 pm. We are looking for volunteers for parent chaperons. Please volunteer by signing up HERE!
Need a Dress for Prom?
McLean's Prom is May 20th! See the resouces below for assistance with dresses, shoes and accessories.
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.
Attendance During SOL Testing
During SOL testing, students should be in class before and after their SOL. If your student has an appointment that requires them to leave school, a note should be sent in with your student first thing in the morning. Please minimize calls during SOL testing times by planning your student's absences ahead of time. Thank you!
2023 FCPSon Device Collection
Seniors
Seniors participating in HIP:
- Seniors can turn in their laptop/charger on Friday, May 12th during 7th period to the Main Office, if no longer needed.
- HIP seniors may continue to use their laptops should they need them during their internship/planning for their presentation.
- Laptop/charger can be returned to the office when no longer needed for HIP.
Seniors not participating in HIP:
- Seniors must turn in their laptops/chargers following their last final (3rd period) on Friday, May 26th to the main office.
Underclassmen
Underclassmen that no longer need their school laptop for finals:
- Starting Monday, June 12th and throughout exam week, any student no longer needing their laptop can bring laptop/charger to the Library Reference Room.
Underclassmen that need their laptop through their last exam:
- Students will turn in their laptop to their 8th period teacher on Thursday, June 15th prior to the final dismissal bell.
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 - June 5 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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McLean HS PTSA Presents: All Night Grad Party |
When: June 6th from 11pm to June 7th 4am
Where: McLean High School
What: The PTSA is excited to be bringing back the All-Night celebration for the Class of 2023! It will be filled with entertainment, obstacle courses, games, casino, money machine, hypnotist show, DJ/music, food, prizes, and much more to celebrate the graduating seniors. Encourage your students and their friends to celebrate their last hurrah at the school with their classmates! Ticket prices will increase next week.
Buy Tickets now: https://mcleanptsa.org/angp2023-form/
Note: We offer financial assistance, please reach out to your counselor.
Volunteer – Help us make ANGP a success for our graduating Seniors
Calling parents of all grades to help make 2023 ANGP a success, pay it forward! This is a Senior event, every year we have parents of Juniors and underclassmen help donate, supervise and chaperon for this event and pay it forward. You can help in multiple ways to make this a memorable celebration for your students:
- Donate gift cards for raffle and grand prizes – Sign up here
Sign Up Link: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70a054da4ad2fa02-20231#/
- Volunteer to donate refreshments and help with the party here
Sign Up Link: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A054DA4AD2FA02-20232
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Sponsor ANGP – Your family name or business name will be prominently displayed on PTSA website, eNews, and social media. For details or questions, contact programs@mcleanptsa.org
Institute for the Arts
Students in all FCPS secondary schools can enroll in the Institute for the Arts (IFTA). IFTA is a two- or four-week summer arts enrichment program for students in rising 7th through 12th grades. Students create their own schedules in art, music, theatre, and dance from nearly 80 courses offered. Transportation is provided from around the county. Tuition assistance is available for students who qualify. Check out the website for more information or email ifta@fcps.edu.
AP Bootcamp - 7/17-7/19
AP Boot Camp will be held Monday, July 17th through Wednesday July 19, 2022 from 9 am – 12 pm. It is recommended students participate in all 3 days. Rising 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. There are 80 available slots for this year’s boot camp. Registration must be received by June 30, 2023.
Boot Camp is an interactive leadership conference where students discuss and practice the qualities required for success in college and in the corporate world. This program is targeted for students who are taking their first AP class. This event will focus on developing five attributes: Teamwork, Communication, Organization, Reading, and Problem Solving (T-CORPS). These skills are those that are most desired by Fortune 500 firms. This hands-on program will actively engage students in the development and use of these skills, while demonstrating their importance. To go with the military boot camp theme, students will divide into platoons and compete in tasks that will allow them to build and demonstrate these skills. After each task, students will reflect upon their performance and discuss how they can improve. Boot Camp has four goals:
1. Introduce students to the unique academic challenges of AP coursework.
2. Guide students in skill development with focus on teamwork, communication, organization, reading, and problem solving.
3. Discuss the practical application of these skills inside and outside the classroom.
4. Provide opportunities for students to develop a support network with their peers.
f you have any questions, please email Mr. Jeff Barham, Assistant Principal, at jbarham@fcps.edu or Mr. Michael Stone, mrstone@fcps.edu.
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Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month |
People with ancestral roots in Asia and the islands of the Pacific have been integral to the story of America. In 1992, May was designated Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month to celebrate their heritage and contributions.Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.
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Jewish American Heritage Month |
May is a national month of recognition of the history of Jewish contributions to American culture, acknowledging the diverse achievement of the Jewish community in the U.S. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.
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Mental Health Awareness Month/Wear Green |
Green is the national color of mental health acceptance, representing hope, strength, support, and encouragement for people who live with mental illness. Show support and recognition of Mental Health Month by: Wearing something green at least once a week throughout May.
From FCPS
Observance Day Design Challenge
 🎨 Calling All Student Artists and Designers: Observance Design Challenge
FCPS is looking for middle and high school students to submit artwork to represent the observances on the FCPS school year calendar for 2023-24 (PDF).
The goal of the Observance Design Challenge is to encourage students to tap into their creativity to create visuals that accurately and positively represent the many religious observances celebrated in the FCPS community. Students may also choose to submit a design for Thanksgiving.
Selected entries will be featured on FCPS social media and in newsletters in the next school year!
See all the submission guidelines and instructions on the FCPS website. Entries will be accepted through June 11, 2023.
Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow
Studies have repeatedly proven that students with better attendance records achieve higher academic performances and are more likely to graduate high school on time. Let's work together to end the school year successfully! Visit our website for attendance resources.
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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.
Final Feedback Opportunity - Strategic Plan Survey
If you haven’t already, please participate in the final opportunity to provide feedback on the draft Strategic Plan goals, measures, and pillars. Take the survey today! Feedback will be reviewed by the School Board at their May 9 retreat. It will also be discussed at the May 25 Board meeting. The survey will close Wednesday, May 17. Visit FCPS’ website to learn about the strategic planning process.
Weekly Reminders
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/
McLean HIgh School PTSA Information
Here are some quick links:
- Visit our WEBSITE and subscribe to eNews
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Join our PTSA (AtoZ Directory Account) (If a returning family, please verify your information)
- Make a Donation and check if your company offers Corporate Matching
- Find McLean PTSA on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram
- When Shopping, link your accounts and a portion of your sales will go to the PTSA
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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