Important Upcoming Dates
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03/03-03/09- National School Social Work Week
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03/04-03/08- National School Breakfast Week
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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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03/10/2024- Daylight Saving Begins
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03/11/2024-First Full Day of Ramadan
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03/14/2024- Hidden In Plain Sight
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03/14/2024- Pi Day
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03/22/2024- Quarter End
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03/22/2024- Deadline for Senior Dues
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03/25-03/29- Spring Break
March 5 Presidential Primary
The Fairfax Board of Elections has requested that schools be closed on Tuesday, March 5, to accommodate the administration of the 2024 presidential primary election.
Therefore, March 5 will be a school holiday for students and a virtual School Planning Day. As outlined in Regulation 4421, School Planning Days are directed by school-based Administrators in order to devote time to school improvement efforts, including collaboration around data, common assessments, responsive instruction, etc.
Central offices and school offices will remain open. SACC will remain open, as on other professional work days.
Message from Dr. Khoshaba
Happy March, SoCo family!
We may be in a new month, but we continue to have a high activity level in SoCo! That’s the beauty of working at a large, comprehensive high school. We reap the benefits of having so many examples of school-spirited events. Here’s just a few examples:
Breakfast Breakdown
We held our first “Breakfast Breakdown with the Principal” this week. We had nearly a dozen students engage in conversations about Artificial Intelligence, grading practices, and Advisory classes. This was a lively group, despite the early morning start time (7:30am) of our meeting. The breakfast food and beverages were wonderful, as was the conversation. This was a FANTASTIC way to start the day! We’ll be hosting these meetings once a month, so we’ll begin advertising our next meeting (on April 9) when we return from Spring Break.
Black History Month Assembly
We had a vast array of talent on full display at our Black History Month assembly this past week. From singing to musical instruments and so much more, the diverse abilities and gifts that were shown throughout this event were inspirational. I’m so proud of these multi-talented Stallions!
STEM Field Trip
Congratulations to Mr. Velazquez and nine of our Stallions for having a successful field trip to the West Point Leadership Ethics and Diversity in STEM workshop. One of the many highlights of the first session was the presentation of West Point Appointments to Cadet Candidates entering West Point this summer, which included our own, Austyn McGregor!
While the students were in their breakout sessions, they held discussions covering Leadership Ethics and Civics. At the conclusion of the discussions, the lead cadets of each team selected “Leaders Among Leaders”. Lily Nguyen and Rayan Hih were two of the ten students identified. They each received Amazon Gift Cards! Congratulations to both Lily and Rayan!
Prior to the workshop, registrants submitted essays covering ethical decisions they had to deal with in their lives. These essays were judged, and Rayan Hih won second place!
Economics Expert!
Special recognition goes out to our very own Economics teacher, Mrs. Turner, for the quick turnaround on a request from NPR’s “Marketplace” this week to speak about the value of personal finance courses as a requirement for high school graduation. The show reaches 7 million listeners, so we are proud of Mrs. Turner for representing FCPS and SoCo! The audio of this show can be found at this link:
https://www.marketplace.org/2024/02/27/personal-finance-classes-are-becoming-the-norm-in-high-schools/
March into Women’s History Month
March is the month we celebrate women’s contributions around the world. I want to thank Mrs. Straughn and her student leaders for putting up decorations throughout our school. Visitors to our school will certainly feel the love and respect that we have for this very special month of celebrations!
 Excellent Instruction!
I had the honor of observing two of our very best teachers at SoCo this week, Ms. Angelica Anderson and Mr. Jeff Payne. Both these English teachers had lessons about The Odyssey this week. While their approaches to their lessons were different, the result was the same: highly engaging lessons that had students thinking critically about this epic poem. I could not have been any prouder to see students excelling in both classrooms. Both Ms. Anderson and Mr. Payne are master teachers in every sense of the term!
Support from the Community
Thank you to the Exxon company in general, and the station on Silverbrook specifically, for their generous donation of $1000 to help our school community. When people ask me what makes SoCo such a special place, one of my first responses is to share about our community. Where else do so many companies support their local schools in this fashion? We very much appreciate Exxon’s support of our Stallion Nation!
Student Awards
This past week also found us recognizing various groups of students for their many talents. First, we had the chance to recognize a group of students who reached goals that we had set for them. One group of students met academic goals, while the other met attendance expectations. Thanks to our PTSO, we not only were able to award them with certificates and refreshments, but we also provided randomly selected students with $10 gift cards to local businesses. I’m proud of these students for reaching these goals!
I would also like to congratulate our 2024 winners of the Scholastic Art Awards! This coming week, their award-winning artwork will be located outside of Student Services.
The following students won awards:
Vivian Ngo: Gold Key for “Rustic Chic” Painting category
Vivian Ngo: Honorable Mention for “Consequence” Drawing and Illustration category
Vivian Ngo: Honorable Mention for “Consequence” Drawing and Illustration category
Nickie Patterson: Honorable Mention for “Bot” Drawing and Illustration category
Allana Sullivan: Honorable Mention for “Faded Hues” Photography category
Dan Tiongco: Gold Key for “I’m Being Possessed by the Ghost in my Hat I Bought from the Thrift Store” Digital Art Category
David Griffith: Gold Key for “A Life of Anxiety” Art Portfolio category
Gold Key winners will move on to compete on the National level!
The awards ceremony will take place at the Ernst Center in Annandale on Wednesday, March 6. The doors open at 6:30 and the ceremony begins at 7:30.
Here are just a few of the many exceptional examples of our students’ artwork:
Student Attendance Reminders
Every year senior students across the country organize “senior skip days” where many senior students decide to not attend school during a regularly scheduled day. I want to be sure that all our families understand that these days are not recognized by South County High School as we follow the adopted FCPS school year calendar. Our teachers will continue as planned with their lessons and instruction. Students will be responsible for learning all material they may miss.
If a parent calls a senior out for a “senior skip day” the attendance code used will be “UNL”. That code means that while you are aware your child is not in school, it is not for a reason deemed an excused absence from the school perspective.
Parents are encouraged to provide a minimum of 2 hours notification for early releases, last minute requests may delay early dismissals. Any student leaving school without checking out through the attendance office will be marked UNV. Parents can pick-up their children outside of Door 1.
Please keep in mind that Chronic Absenteeism is a new criterion for our school's accreditation. Last year we were "in warning" due to having a high number of students missing 10% or more of the school year. This means that every absence matters. Please encourage your student to attend school on days listed in the calendar. We appreciate everyone's support as we continue working toward the same goals.
Coming Soon!
We had two other HUGE events this weekend. The International Night and DECA competitions both occurred this weekend. I’ll provide updates about the outcomes of both in next week’s newsletter.
Have a wonderful rest of your weekend!
Kambar
#OneStallion
Together As One!
2024 Volleyball Summer Camp
https://www.stallionsvolleyball.com/
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
Eating Disorder Parent Information
In 2013, Virginia passed a law requiring every school system to provide information to parents annually about eating disorders with parents/guardians of students in the fifth through twelfth grades.
According to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA 2023),
Eating disorders are serious but treatable mental and physical illnesses that can affect people of all genders, ages, races, religions, ethnicities, sexual orientations, body shapes, and weights. In the United States, 28.8 million Americans will suffer from an eating disorder at some point in their lives.
There is no single cause of an eating disorder. Rather, it is a complex combination of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors that converge and set off an individual’s predisposed genetic vulnerability.
In collaboration with the Fairfax County Health Department, FCPS has developed a web page with detailed information and resources about eating disorders. To find out more, please visit the FCPS Eating Disorders website.
In addition to the information on the FCPS website, the National Eating Disorders Association has a toll free, confidential Helpline, 1-800-931-2237.
Upcoming Events for Junior Families
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. The event will be recorded for those that are unable to attend live. Please use this link below to join the webinar: https://myfcpsk12.zoom.us/j/92218314733
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.
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.
Celebrate your Seniors participating in Lacrosse, Soccer, Baseball, Softball, Tennis, Track, and Crew with a Senior Ad in the Spring Sports Program!
Deadline is March 15, 2024! Please order on the SCABC Square site: https://south-county-athletic-booster-club.square.site/athletic-programs
Contact Elena Jordon at 703-302-0197 for more information.
Senior Ad Form
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
AWARENESS
National School Social Work Week (03/03-03/09)
March 3-9 is National School Social Work Week. Social workers in FCPS help to prevent social, emotional, and behavioral factors from affecting a student's ability to perform at their best. Their primary goal is to remove barriers that prevent a student from fulfilling their academic potential. Social workers are assigned to every school and center in the school system. Most social workers serve one to two sites. Learn more about the role of social workers in FCPS.
National School Breakfast Week
National School Breakfast Week (NSBW) celebrates the importance of a nutritious school breakfast in fueling students for success.
Equity in Education Month
FCPS — in conjunction with the Virginia School Boards Association — observes March as Equity in Education Month, a division-wide opportunity to deepen our commitment to creating a climate and curriculum where all students receive the resources they need to reach their fullest potential.
Disability Awareness Month
In March people throughout the United States will celebrate Women’s History Month and Disability Awareness Month. Both histories are foundational parts of American history. Students deserve meaningful, sustained opportunities to learn about the experiences and contributions of this history year-round, and the celebration of Women’s History Month and Disability Awareness month are opportunities to honor these diverse and important stories. Resources for Women's History Month and Disability Awareness Month are available for teachers across content areas as part of the FCPS Multiple Perspectives Hub. Teachers and school leaders will find ideas for classroom learning experiences across content areas and grade levels. Resources curated specifically for the social studies curriculum are also available on the Women's History 180 document and Disability Awareness 180 document.
The Council for Art Education (CFAE) administers Youth Art Month. Youth Art Month encourages support for quality school art programs, and promotes art material safety. The program provides a medium for recognizing skills developed through visual arts experiences unlike any other curriculum subjects, including:
Art shows, special exhibits, fundraisers, and school and community activities take place annually, traditionally during March, to celebrate visual art education for grades K-12.
March has also been designated by the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) for the observance of Music In Our Schools Month® (MIOSM®), the time of year when music education becomes the focus of schools across the nation. The purpose of MIOSM is to raise awareness of the importance of music education for all children – and to remind citizens that school is where all children should have access to music. MIOSM is an opportunity for music teachers to bring their music programs to the attention of the school and the community, and to display the benefits that school music brings to students of all ages.
Theatre In Our Schools (TIOS) is a celebration of theatre in our schools and schools in our theatres. Sponsored by the American Alliance for Theatre & Education (AATE) and the Educational Theatre Association (EdTA), the goals of TIOS are to raise public awareness of the impact of theatre education and draw attention to the need for more access to quality programs in and out of school for all students. While TIOS presentations and advocacy may happen anytime in schools, theatres, and other public spaces, AATE and EdTA will recognize and promote March as the official Theatre In Our Schools month.
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National Nutrition Month
National Nutrition Month® is an annual campaign created by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. During the month of March, everyone is invited to learn about making informed food choices and developing healthful eating and physical activity habits.
Phone: 703-446-1625
OPTION 1- ALL DAY ABSENCE
OPTION 2- LATE ARRIVAL
OPTION 3- EARLY RELEASE
(CALL OR EMAIL FIRST THING IN THE MORNING TO REPORT EARLY RELEASE)
- Handwritten notes are acceptable*
- Call/email/note must come from parent/guardian, NOT the student*
- Please always leave a message, they are checked constantly*
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