Important Upcoming Dates
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02/15/2024- School Resource Office Appreciation Day
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02/19/2024- Presidents Day (No School)
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02/22/2024- School Bus Driver Appreciation Day
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03/05/2024- Student Holiday- School Planning Day for staff
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03/08-03/14- Spring Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener
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03/22/2024- Deadline for Senior Dues
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03/25-03/29- Spring Break
Message from Dr. Khoshaba
Greetings SoCo families,
We have a lot to celebrate this week. Between our Black History Month, PS I Love You campaign, club events, and athletic schedule, our students and staff are juggling a lot of responsibilities. Here are a sampling of some of the wonderful things happening at SoCo!
School Culture
We have some amazing things happening at school! This week alone, we are continuing to have new decorations go up for our Black History month celebration.
We also continue to have student work proudly displayed in our halls. The first picture is from Ms. Ballard’s AP English class, which highlighted the words students will focus on this year to be successful. This was such a clever exercise!
The second set of pictures is from Ms. Hill’s Government classes, which showed the students’ knowledge of the American Civil War.
We also continued showing our pride in Black History Month (BHM) this week. Here is another beautifully decorated door that I found.
In addition to hallway décor, we celebrated BHM with a special staff luncheon. Our staff participated in a potluck style meal. As it always is, having time to converse and share a meal with each other helps our staff connect with one another in a more meaningful way than simply passing each other in the hallways and shared office space. There was an added joy of having our students help out as servers this year. Thank you to everyone who was able to participate.
This week also found our student leadership class decorating for the PS I Love You campaign. This is a national movement to dedicated to eradicating the stigma around mental health. Friday was the official day of celebration, marked by the color purple.
Upcoming Events
In an effort to hear more from our students about their experiences at school, I’m starting a new Morning Chat and Chew with the Principal event. Our first session will be on February 27 at 7:30am. The location will be determined after I see how many students sign up. To entice students to come, I’ll offer a light breakfast, with morning juices and pastries provided. Please encourage your student to sign up in the days to come. Within the next week, I’ll include a QR code in the hallways and in future newsletters.
We are also hosting our International Night event on March 2 at 1:00pm and 6:00pm. Tickets will go on sale to families first, then students and the community. Please purchase your tickets when they come out, as we have limited seating capacity in our auditorium. Once the tickets sell out, we will not have any additional to sell.
I know we’re approaching a religious holiday, Ramadan, soon, so I want to ensure that all parents know that we do have the opportunity for students to pray during the school day. To do so, students need to get parent permission please check our school website to complete this form. Please keep in mind that any assignments missed during this time are still the responsibility of the students to complete.
Opportunities for Families
The Hidden in Plain Sight (HPS) event we hold each year is an opportunity for parents, teachers, and others who work with adolescents to experience and explore the environment of a teenager and learn to spot signs of possible substance use and risky behavior. We have our next HPS event occurring on March 14 at 630pm. This information will go out to our SoCo pyramid (elementary and middle schools) parents next week, so please sign up if you are interested in attending: https://bit.ly/hipsoco031424
Incredible Athletics
SoCo Athletics was hitting on all cylinders again this week. We held our Regional Wrestling tournament at Fairfax High School on Wednesday and Thursday. Our SoCo wrestlers did an outstanding job of competing, and we ended up with two wrestlers qualifying for next week’s State tournament. Congratulations to Muhammed Ullah and Gavin Whiteside earning 4th and 3rd places, respectively.
Finally, both of our Basketball teams excelled at Friday night’s games. The Girls team took the court first. While our team didn’t win, it’s important to remember that effort isn’t always reflected in the score. We’re all very proud of how well our Girls team continues to play together and support one another.
The Boys followed up with an equally exciting game. Both the Boys Basketball and Winter Cheer teams celebrated their Senior Nights, and the crowd was into this back-and-forth game. In the end, our Boys team beat out Woodson 58-54. I have to comment that our Boys team has incredible athletic ability. They run faster dribbling a ball than I could run without anything in my hands! Their teamwork was inspiring to watch! Way to go, Boys Basketball team!
I’d like to note that the crowd was hot for both games. Having a crowd this large and vocal brought a special energy and vibe to the night.
I hope everyone enjoys the weekend!
Kambar
#OneStallion
Together As One!
Spring Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener
Hello families,
The Spring Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener will be administered to students in grades 9 through 12 during the week of (03/08/2024-03/14/2024). Students use the SEL Screener twice a year to share their perspectives on how well their school and community help them develop skills they need to succeed. The screener works by asking questions or presenting statements that students can think about and respond to. More information is available about the SEL Screener by accessing this link:
https://www.fcps.edu/student-tests-and-assessments/student-assessment-details/social-emotional-screener
Do you love musicals and being on stage? Consider auditioning for the spring musical, Singin’ in the Rain! With iconic songs like “Good Morning,” “Make ‘Em Laugh,” and “Singin’ in the Rain,” we can’t wait to bring this classic musical to our community! Singin’ in the Rain is open to all current SCHS students to audition. There will be an optional workshop on February 6 from 3-5 where students can learn audition material and ask questions. Auditions will take place from February 12-15. Please check https://www.schstheatre.com/ for more information on auditions! If you have any questions, please e-mail Molly Rumberger; mdrumberger@fcps.edu.
Upcoming Events for Junior Families
Junior Parent Night (In Person) – February 28th at 6:30 PM in the SCHS Auditorium
Junior parents are invited to an overview on post-secondary options. Topics will include four-year college list building and admissions criteria, degree and certificate programs at Northern Virginia Community College, and employment training opportunities. The evening will briefly touch on exploring military options during senior year. Those already interested in military service after high school are encouraged to participate in the FCPS Military Night on March 20th as information will be presented in greater detail. Juniors will receive the same information during the school day from their school counselors on March 4th or March 8th.
College Night (Virtual) – March 12th at 7:00 PM
South County is partnering with Lake Braddock to host a panel of College Admission Representatives for juniors and their parents. A link to participate will be sent closer to the event date. The event will be recorded for those that are unable to attend live.
The topics to be covered include:
- Junior Year and the College Search
- Community College Options
- How Do Colleges Make Admission Decisions?
- Financial Aid/Scholarships & Private Schools
- Managing the Process and Student Decisions
FCPS Military Night (Virtual) – March 20th at 6:00 PM
FCPS Virtual Military Night is March 20, 2024, from 6:00pm - 8:00pm. This event features U.S. service academies, ROTC programs, congressional representatives, senior military colleges, and enlistment recruiters. It is open to all FCPS students and families interested in learning more about military education and service options. A zoom link and detailed schedule will be shared closer to the event date.
There’s no better way to remember your high school years than a book you can keep forever. Speaking of high school memories, parents can now order any size senior ad with a special Valentine's Week discount! Show your love for your senior student by using the code LOVE24 for 10% off at checkout! With limited space available for senior ads, you won't want to miss out!
*Discount ends 2/18
Senior Ad
Don't forget to purchase your yearbook!
Yearbook sale now!
Senior Dues are $100 and help to cover the costs of Graduation and are due by March 22.
The easiest way to pay is through My School Bucks.
Cash or checks are also accepted and can be made out to South County High School and can be given to Mr. Kingston in A125 or Mrs. Hill in Room A119.
Senior Dues need to be paid in order for students to attend prom or the Senior trip to King’s Dominion, or Graduation.
The South County High School Athletic Booster Club
The South County High School Athletic Booster Club hosts their Annual Golf Classic to raise funds to support our athletic programs. It is also a great way to network with fellow community members and supporters of SCHS!
Our 17th Annual Golf Classic will be on Tuesday, May 21, 2024 at Laurel Hill Golf Club, across from South County High School.
Are you interested in being a sponsor this year? Please check out the sponsorship options or register to play on our website: https://birdease.com/schsgolf.
FOOD FOR NEIGHBORS PARTNERSHIP WITH SCHS
This holiday season, let's come together to make a difference in the lives of food-insecure students in our community. Food For Neighbors plans to provide local families with Holiday Meals at Thanksgiving. Visit the FFN website today and learn how you can help students and their families experience the joy of gathering for a holiday meal. Every $50 donation provides a meal for a family. Your generosity can make a world of difference for local students!
PTSO
Happy 2024 South County families!
A South County Senior and his sister (Sophomore) have initiated another fundraising campaign to raise funds for Seniors at South County who are unable to meet the financial obligations of their senior year. This includes graduation dues and ANGP tickets.
All funds will be requested through school counselors in order ensure anonymity. All funds raised by these two exceptional students will be donated to the PTSO and earmarked for the financial support of Seniors with a demonstrated need.
Funds are being raised through the following go fund me site if you are interested in making a donation. https://gofund.me/7816e416
South County High School PTSO is partnering with Seasonal Roots, a local online farmers market, to bring healthy, delicious food to our community, to support local farmers and artisans, and to raise money to support the All Night Grad Party for our seniors!
Seasonal Roots is an online farmers market that delivers “dirt to doorstep” to families in Maryland and Virginia. Each week the market offers more than 150 items that are all grown and produced locally, sustainably, and ethically. Market items include fruit, vegetables, meat, dairy, baked goods, prepared foods, vegan specialties and more.
As part of this fundraiser for ANGP - new customers can join Seasonal Roots for 50% off the membership fee (a $25 savings!)
PLUS for every new customer who signs up, a $20 donation will be made to South County PTSO! WIN-WIN for everyone! Be sure to use promotional code SOCOANGP at https://www.seasonalroots.com/socoangp.
Save this code SCSS4010
EVERY Thursday from now until Jun 2024 Papa John's is supporting a restaurant night to support the ANGP.
We raised $70+ in Sep. Let's keep the momentum
The South County High School All Night Graduation Party (ANGP) Committee has secured a year long (school year) fundraiser with our local Papa John's! EVERY Thursday from now until June, if you use the coupon Code SCSS4010, you will get 40% off your order and the ANGP will get 10% of all sales. This is for our local Papa John's only (Off Silverbrook Rd).
So save this coupon code and use it every Thursday you are in the mood for Pizza! This is a great way to support our local Papa John's AND support the ANGP at the same time!
Enjoy!
Your ANGP Planning Committee
February Is Career and Technical Education Month
By enrolling in a Career and Technical Education (CTE) course or program, students learn the technical applications of many occupations while preparing for higher education or entry-level employment. A core program of CTE courses is offered in every middle and high school including Business and Information Technology, Family and Consumer Sciences, Health and Medical Sciences, Marketing, Technology and Engineering Education, and Trade and Industrial Education. Since this is an elective, course offerings may vary by school. Learn more on the CTE website.
CTE also offers summer programs for students to explore their programs. Enroll now!
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VSBA School Board Appreciation Month
Thank you to the Fairfax County School Board for all they do throughout the year: hiring and evaluating the superintendent; reviewing and approving the FCPS budget, calendar, policies, and more! Want to contact your school board representatives to share your appreciation? Visit their website to find your school board member and contact them.
Ash Wednesday
Ash Wednesday is a holy day of prayer and fasting in many Western Christian denominations. It marks the beginning of Lent, a time of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving leading up to Easter. Many Christians attend special Ash Wednesday church services, at which churchgoers receive ash on their foreheads. Ash Wednesday derives its name from this practice. Read more about Ash Wednesday in Britannica.com.
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