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To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.
Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.
如果您想以其他语言阅读此新闻时讯，请访问我们的网站。
이 소식지를 다른 언어로 읽으려면, 우리 웹사이트를 방문하시기 바랍니다.
.يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى
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Important Dates
You can access the FCPS 2023-2024 school year calendar here.
September 18-22: Homecoming Week
September 18 - Homecoming Pep Rally (Cougar Connect)
September 19 - ESOL Parent Night
September 19-20 - Underclassmen Portraits
September 22 - Senior Panoramic (CT 7/8.); Homecoming Game
September 23 - Homecoming Dance
September 25 - No School, Yom Kippur
September 26 - Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS): Parent presentation
October 9 - Student Holiday, Indigenous Peoples Day
October 11 - PSAT Day (10th/11th Grade); SAT Day (12th Grade - Registration was required); Unscheduled Day (9th Grade; non-testers)
 General Information
ESOL Back to School Night
All ESOL students and their families are invited to a Back To School event on September 19 from 6:30-8:00 in the OHS cafeteria. The information is below. Please contact Janet Jones (jmjones1@fcps.edu) or Mary Landis (mflandis@fcps.edu) with any questions.
The 2023 World Languages Credit Exam will be administered on November 8, 9, and 13, 2023. Thirty languages will be included: American Sign Language (ASL), Amharic, Arabic, Bengali, Chinese (Mandarin), Farsi, French, German, Greek, Hebrew, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Nepali, Pashto, Portuguese, Punjabi, Russian, Sanskrit, Somali, Spanish, Tagalog, Tamil, Telugu, Tigrinya, Turkish, Twi, Urdu, and Vietnamese.
Registration opened on Tuesday, September 5, 2023, at 8:00 a.m. and closes on Thursday, October 5, 2023, at 4:00 p.m. Late registrations will not be accepted. To register, students must see their school counselor.
More information can be found here.
Underclassmen Picture Days
School Picture Day is coming Tuesday September 19th & Wednesday September 20th 2023 for our underclassmen (grades 9-11). Students will take their pictures through their English class. Pictures will be available approximately two weeks following our school's photo day. Save time and pre-order online here.
For questions about ordering please email underclass@vosphoto.com
Oakton High School NHS Application 2023-2024
All students who are eligible to apply for the Oakton High School National Honor Society should have received an email from Mrs. Kimberly Stewart via their FCPS school email on September 7th 2023. Students in 11th and 12th grade with a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher have been provided details regarding the application process. We ask all eligible applicants to please hold any questions regarding the application process until after our interest meeting later in September. Applicants were provided details of the upcoming meeting as well as application deadlines. All current members eligible to apply for an NHS Officers position for the 2023-2024 school year have also been notified via their school email regarding the application process and deadlines.
Homecoming 2023
Oakton High School’s 2023 Homecoming Dance will be on Saturday, September 23rd from 8:00 – 11:00 PM in the Main Gym of OHS. This year’s theme is ‘Bet on OHS – Casino Night.’ Dress is semi-formal and the dance includes great music from Electric Events DC, photobooths, games, light desserts, and drinks. Tickets will be available through MySchoolBucks and will be $20. Guest passes for non-Oakton students will be available in Mr. McCulla’s room (2514) and the Activities Office in early September for student's to pick-up. Guests who are not from Oakton High School must be at least a freshmen at another high school and no older than 20. Information will be posted to each grade levels’ Schoology page. We look forward to seeing all our students come out and celebrate Homecoming.
Yearbooks and Senior Baby Ads
Yearbooks and senior baby ads for the 2023-2024 school year are now on sale! You can purchase yearbook packages and senior baby ads at www.yearbookordercenter.com using the code 4770. Standalone yearbooks are also available via MySchoolBucks. Prices start at $67 and will increase throughout the year, so buy early to save. Don’t wait – the last two years sold out. Questions? Email jsmorrison@fcps.edu
 Chronic Absenteeism
Chronic Absenteeism is an active area of focus for Oakton High School. Chronic Absenteeism is defined as a student who misses 10% or more of their enrolled days during an academic school year. Attendance is a school quality indicator and is factored into the school accreditation process.
According to research, regular attendance is a significant factor in a student’s success.
- Chronic absenteeism correlates to low academic achievement.
- Absenteeism is a powerful predictor of dropout rates.
- Absenteeism has been linked to poor outcomes later in life.
If you need assistance with your student's attendance or have questions, please reach out to our SOSA (System of support advisor) Mr. Justin Janis jrjanis@fcps.edu
 Testing Information
SAT Information
On Wednesday, October 11, 2023, Oakton 12th graders will have the opportunity to participate in the SAT School Day. FCPS will cover the cost for any twelfth grade student to take this test. The essay option and subject area tests are not available during SAT School Day.
Registration for the SAT on October 11 is now closed.
PSAT Information
On October 11, 2023, Oakton will offer the digital PSAT/NMSQT to students in grades 10-11. Students in grades 10-11 will be automatically registered and must test on an FCPS device. Students who wish to test with accommodations can learn more about the process and requirements on our PSAT/SAT page.
AP Exam Registration for Non-enrolled Students
If any student wants to take an AP exam in a course that he/she is not enrolled in, registration is now open. Each exam costs $98. You can use this google form to register. Students currently enrolled in an AP course are automatically registered for the corresponding AP exam and do not need to complete any form. The deadline to register is October 27th. Payment can be submitted through My School Bucks or check made out to Oakton High School. Payment is required before the exam space will be reserved.
My School Bucks Link
Other AP related information can be found in our AP Testing FAQs on the Oakton website. If you have any other questions about AP testing in general, please contact AP Coordinator Kim Stewart at kastewart@fcps.edu.
OHS Service Learning Opportunity Highlight
Healthy Kids Running Series
Healthy Kids Running Series is a community-based non-profit that provides a fun, inclusive five-week running series for ages 2-14 designed for kids to get active, feel accomplished, and lay the foundation for a healthy lifestyle. Our program runs each Sunday from 3pm-4pm from 9/10 - 10/8 at Oakton High School. Student volunteers will need to be at least 14 to volunteer.
You can learn more about our race series here
Here is the link to include for students to sign up.
Contact at Healthy Kids Running Series Oakton – Tiffany O’Neill-Stuermann at oaktonva@healthykidsrs.org
Volunteer Fairfax
Volunteer Fairfax is a resource that can be used to find out about service-learning opportunities in the community. Service learning is a great way for students and families to engage with local nonprofits and volunteer. More information about Volunteer opportunities on this day can be found on Volunteer Fairfax’s website.
Disclaimer: Opportunities offered by organizations other than Fairfax County Public Schools are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or a specific school. These opportunities may utilize technology tools that have not been assessed by the Fairfax County Public Schools Department of Information Technology. Students should gain permission from their parent or guardian before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity and families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any technology platform that the enrichment opportunity may use before participating.
Student Services Updates
Student Services Newsletter
Welcome Back Cougars! Check out the Student Services September Newsletter for department reminders as well as upcoming events including the College & Career Center updates. Learn more about FCPS college fairs, Naviance, the World Language Credit Exam, and counseling events such as Senior Parent Night, Freshman Parent Night, and Ambassadors Program.
Timeline for Schedule Changes
Please see the timeline below regarding schedule changes for the 2023-24 school year.
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September 11-November 3 (end of 1st quarter grading window): No schedule changes
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After November 6: Any student requesting a schedule change will need to fill out the schedule change request form, with permission from parent, student, teacher, school counselor, and administrator. If approved by the administration, schedule changes will only be processed if there is space available.
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After March 22: There will not be any schedule changes, regardless of space availability. This date aligns with the last day of the 3rd Quarter.
To find out who your child's school counselor is, please visit our website.
Upcoming Opportunities
Instruction 2 Industry: Employability Skills
During the week of October 16-19, 2023, school divisions across the region are hosting employability skills webinars during the school day. Sessions cover Communication Etiquette, Resume Writing, Elevator Pitches, and Job Interviewing. A virtual, but live, event, Instruction 2 Industry, is free to all Northern Virginia high school students; recordings will be posted after for viewing if unable to participate during scheduled times. Classes may choose to participate as a whole class with one registration or as individual students which will each require their own registrations.
For more information about the schedule and to register for the event, see Event Flyer.
College Fair and Look to the Future Events
The annual FCPS College Fair will be held on Sunday, October 15, 2023, at George Mason University’s Eagle Bank Arena from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. Approximately 250 colleges and universities will be represented, including two and four-year colleges and US Service Academies. Following the fair, the Two-Night Postsecondary Virtual Event will be held on Monday, October 16 and Tuesday, October 17, 2023, from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. Both events will help students be better prepared for the next chapter of their educational journey. Students may REGISTER HERE.
Volunteers are needed for the College Fair. SIGN-UP TODAY to help make this event a success for students and their families.
FCPS News
In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics:
- Tips to Stay Healthy
- When a Student Should Stay Home From School
- College and Career Fair
Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving the weekly newsletter, sign up today.
Health and Wellness Updates
Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS): Parent Presentation
Oakton High School is excited to bring back the Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS) parent program for this school year. This presentation is a collaboration with our Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist, Mr. McNulty, and the Fairfax County Police Department. More information can be found below. To attend you must register.
Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS) is FREE and has seats available!
Join us Tuesday, September 26th from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Oakton High School (Lecture Hall). Please use Door 2 to enter.
Register here: https://bit.ly/hipsoakton23
The Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS) program is an IN-PERSON 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, mental health concerns, eating disorders, risky sexual behaviors and more.
The PowerPoint presentation details red flags (props will be passed around) 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 behavior and helping to put kids on the right path to a healthy life. Let’s open the door to communicating with our teens!
2023-2024 Health & Safety Guidance for Schools
Although the COVID-19 hospital transmission level (previously the COVID-19 Community Transmission level) for Fairfax County is currently low, COVID-19 cases have risen in Virginia during the last few weeks, and flu season will soon be upon us. Be sure to review FCPS Health and Safety Guidance for the best ways to prevent the spread of disease and to find out when students should stay home from school.
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
Safety and Security Updates
Safety Drills
Below is a list of safety drills that we will be practicing this school year.
- Fire Evacuation Drills - Two within the first twenty school days, then one per month
- Lockdown Drills - Two per school year; once in the first twenty days of school
- Bus Evacuation Drills - Two per school year; to be held within the first thirty school days of each semester
- Tornado Drill - To be held in March
Anonymous Tip Line Puts Safety First
If you or your child have concerns or information relating to feeling unsafe in any way at school, we encourage you to reach out to a member of the security or administrative team so that we may quickly address the issue. Students and parents may also utilize the FCPS Office of Safety and Security safety tip line, that you can access anonymously online, by text (888-777; Keyword TIP FCPS), or by phone (571-423-2020).
If your tip is an emergency and immediate assistance is necessary, please dial 911.
Students, staff, and community members should report school safety issues such as threats, unsafe or dangerous situations, illegal drug activity, theft, gang activity, the existence of weapons, vandalism, and concerns about student wellness. Tip line users may identify themselves or remain anonymous.
Concerns that do not impact the safety of our schools—concerns or information about programs, regulations, or policies—can be sent to the FCPS ombudsman online, at 571-423-4014, or ombudsman@fcps.edu.
PTSA News & Information
PTSA Board and Committee Chair Volunteers Needed
The PTSA is looking to fill the following volunteer positions for the executive committee for the 2023-2024 school year. Without a President and Vice-President, the Oakton PTSA cannot continue it's work.
In addition, the PTSA is searching for volunteers to be the Chair for the following committees to be a part of the Oakton PTSA team for the coming school year 2023-2024.
Those who are interested in the above positions should email Oaktonhsptsa@gmail.com with desired positions.
Oakton Pantry
The Oakton Pantry is available to any Oakton student or neighbor who is in need. We stock non-perishable food, personal hygiene items, and household supplies.
For assistance: ohsfood@gmail.com
Volunteer/Questions: oaktonpantry@gmail.com
Donate via PayPal
Most needed items: website
Amazon Wish List
The Pantry Team is incredibly grateful to every single donor who helps support the Oakton Pantry. Every dollar donated goes directly to providing groceries to students and families.
Today we wish to thank and recognize two of our long-standing donors: Rustic Love and the Andino Family. Rustic Love has consistently supported us with their extremely generous grants, enabling us to keep our shelves stocked for months at a time. The Andino Family makes it possible for us to provide more than basic necessities to our recipients. Because of their generosity, we are able to provide hearty meals that feed a family.
Thank you so much for your support!
 Parent Resources
Parent Information Line
Parents who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese can call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS and to receive support if they are having difficulty communicating with their children's schools due to a language barrier.
Parent Resource Center
The FCPS Parent Resource Center offers a wide variety of information and resources to support the success of all students. This includes monthly workshops and webinars. More information can be found on the FCPS website, including registration information.
FCPS Cares
Do you know an Oakton 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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