Mustang Weekly, February 16, 2024

principal's message

Hello Mustangs,

As we approach the Presidents Day weekend, I want to extend warm wishes to our entire school community. Let’s take this opportunity to reflect on the leadership and service of our nation’s past presidents. Thank you for your continued dedication and support of our school. As always, let us know if you have any questions, feedback, or concerns. I wish everyone a restful and enjoyable long weekend, and please join us for the theatre production if you are in town.

Justin Simmons | Principal | South County Middle School


Calendar

UPCOMING DATES

Friday, February 16 - Theater Performance, 7:00 PM

Saturday, February 17 - Theater Performance, 1:00 PM & 7:00 PM

Monday, February 19 - No School, President’s Day

Friday, February 23 - Student vs Staff Basketball Game

Wednesday, February 28 - PTSO Meeting, 7:00 PM



community

Weekly Math SOL Reviews

Students have recently started completing weekly SOL Review assignments for their math classes. Here is some key information for you to support your student at home:

  • Students are permitted to use their notes, slides and information posted in Schoology, Mathspace textbook and practice questions, and other resources used in class. They may also use tutor.com to access support outside of school on these assignments. Students may also ask for teacher support in seminar or after school office hours. They may not collaborate with other students.
  • Each review will count as half of a formative assignment, and will be included within the weekly homework time guidelines for students.
  • Reviews open each Monday at 7:00 am and are due every Sunday at 11:59 pm. These assignments are in Mathspace.
  • Students who do not show understanding of content will be reviewing questions during class and/or during seminar time.
  • More detailed information was given to students during class and is posted in their math Schoology course.

Please check with your student and reach out to your student’s math teacher with any questions!

  1. Family webinar information – this is offered by the county to help families understand high school math pathways. This can be included for the next couple weeks until the webinar happens.

Family Webinar – Understanding High School Mathematics Course Offerings

  • How can students participate in mathematics throughout high school in a way that is relevant to and supportive of post-secondary and career interests?
  • During this session we will discuss mathematics graduation requirements and how to support students in navigating the various course offerings currently available in FCPS.
  • Students and their families may start thinking about what course pathways are available beginning in middle school. Join us to learn more.
  • Presented by Jennifer Allard FCPS High School Math Specialist and Erin Sylves FCPS Math Specialist.

March 8, 2024, 10-11:30 a.m.

Register for Understanding High School Mathematics Course Offerings

 

Talent Showcase Update: “African Americans and the Arts”

Due to unforeseen circumstances we had to reconsider our field trip to South County High School. We apologize for the inconvenience and please let us know if you have any questions.

Thank you, Ms. Myree  

 

South County Middle School

8th Grade Day of Service

April 19, 2024

Eighth grade students will participate in a Day of Service on Wednesday, Apr 19, 2024, here at South County Middle School.  Our purpose is to encourage students to become productive, ethical citizens of a global community by providing opportunities to give back to our community and the worldStudents will have the opportunity to participate in four different activities that range in focus from assisting individuals, helping the Lorton community, and impacting the world at large.  This will allow them to earn 4.5 out of the 5 required service hours for Civics.  Students DO NOT need to sign up.  Their participation will be documented by their attendance each period that day.  

One activity students will participate in is a food packaging event with Rise Against Hunger.  We must raise $12,000 for the Rise Against Hunger event.  This money will allow us to buy the food and materials needed to package 28,000 meals.  If each 8th grade student is able to raise $30, we will surpass our goal.  Donations must be received by Monday, April 15th. Please use this link to family and friends: Rise Against Hunger Donations

 

Yearbook Photos

Want your student to be in the yearbook? Your contribution is the best way to make sure your student is well represented in the yearbook. We are specifically looking for photos from summer, outdoor activitieshobbies or talents, family traditions, and winter break. All you need to do is click the hyper link and upload them! Photo submissions received by February 16th will earn your student an entry into a gift card raffle. Thank you!

 

SOL Testing and Expedited Retakes

SOL Testing at SCMS will be on the following dates: May 7th, May 9th, and May 13th

Please try to avoid scheduling appointments or trips on these dates.  It is important for all students to be in school for these assessments.

The Virginia Board of Education allows certain elementary and middle school students who fail Standards of Learning (SOL) tests by a narrow margin to retake the test before the end of the school year. Retesting is available when a student fails their first attempt with a score of 375-399 (where 400 is passing).  Parent permission is required for any retests in grades 3-8. If your student scores in this range, and you believe that they would benefit from a second opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and skills on the SOL test, please complete this permission form and submit it to the school. A decision not to allow retesting will not impact your child’s course grade or academic record.

Parent Permission for SOL Retest

Our Schools, Our Future: Community Conversations Continue

Join Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid for Our Schools, Our Future – A Community Conversation. Your voice matters! Share your thoughts about FCPS and bring your questions to a conversation on:

Pre-registration for a Community Conversation is not required but will help FCPS plan. Childcare and interpretation services will be provided for all events based on staff availability. Events are open to all. Learn about other opportunities to connect with Dr. Reid.