Important Upcoming Dates
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03/20/2024- FIVE GUYS Community Night SCHS Theatre 4-8pm
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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
Student Attendance Reminders
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.
Spring Break🌷
March 25-29 is spring break. Schools and school offices will be closed. We wish our students and teachers a happy and restful Spring Break! See the complete school year calendar.
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Message from Dr. Khoshaba
Greetings, SoCo families,
I hope this newsletter finds you well and enjoying the spring season. Here are some exciting updates and highlights from our school community:
Ramadan Celebration: We are thrilled to announce that we have begun our Ramadan celebration, and it's off to a great start! This special time allows us to come together as a community to reflect, practice mindfulness, and celebrate diversity.
Women's History Month: Our celebration of Women's History continues, with more events and activities planned throughout the month. It's an excellent opportunity for our students to learn about and honor the contributions of women throughout history. In the first mural, I took a picture of one of the many celebrated individuals as an example for you to see a bit closer.
Inspirational Students: We are proud to spotlight two exceptional students who served as Principal for the Day: Yanet and Bethania. Their insights into transitioning through the hallways, ideas for enhancing school spirit, and overall leadership were truly inspiring. Additionally, I’d like to commend Samson for his Eagle Scout Project, which involves providing diabetes kits to multiple schools in our area. His dedication to service is exemplary.
Student Work Showcase: Our hallways are adorned with wonderful student work samples from Mr. Smith's History class. The colorful posters created by students showcase fascinating World War I facts and highlight important figures from that time. We are especially proud of Gavin, one of the talented student artists, whose poster is featured in the attached photo.
We also had an exceptional two-day Marketing day sales event in the cafeteria. The Entrepreneurship students did a fantastic job of not only marketing their sales items, but they also had highly effective sales techniques! Here are just a few of the numerous outstanding salespeople.
We are thrilled to announce that Mr. Dan Velazquez, our dedicated STEM Design teacher, has been chosen as an Onshape Champion! This prestigious designation recognizes Mr. Velazquez's innovative approach to teaching future engineers. In his STEM Design class, Onshape isn't just software – it's a powerful tool that empowers students to grasp not only Computer-Aided Design (CAD) but also the critical concept of Design Intent. This recognition is a testament to Mr. Velazquez's dedication and the strength of our STEM Design program. We are excited to see how his expertise continues to inspire and empower our future engineers! Please join me in congratulating Mr. Velazquez on this well-deserved honor!
Incredible Instruction: I had the opportunity to observe two amazing lessons this week. First, in Mr. Mason’s World History 2 class, students were learning about different types of governments. The content I observed centered on Communism. Students were given a one-sentence description and worked in cooperative groups to have academic discussions about positive and negative impacts of that description. Mr. Mason reviewed the responses that were posted on Padlet, praising all students for their reflections and insights. In my 20 minutes of observation, I saw students highly engaged in this lesson, working cooperatively with peers to have on-topic discussions, and students gaining confidence as they brainstormed the best ways to respond. What an incredible lesson!
I then had the chance to observe an Algebra 2 class taught by Mr. Cabacar and Mrs. Krishnamurthy. Again, I witnessed a wonderful lesson, this time about factoring quadratic equations. The classroom climate was wonderful, as both teachers and the students had respectful and professional interactions with one another. Highly effective strategies were used, but my favorite was the Kahoot activity that allowed the students (and myself!) to compete with each other to see who could determine the correct answer the fastest and earn the most points. I won’t mention what place I earned, but I will say that in my defense, these students are ultra smart and very talented. 😊
Survey Time!: On Monday, March 18, SoCo parents/guardians will be sent an email containing a link to complete the online FCPS Principal Evaluation Parent/Guardian Feedback Form. This questionnaire is part of the VDOE-mandated Performance Evaluation Program for principals and offers parents/guardians an opportunity to provide anonymous input about various topics related to our school. These topics include how the principal demonstrates/impacts instructional leadership, school climate, management, communication and community relations, culturally responsive and equitable leadership, and professionalism within the school.
The questionnaire will be administered between March 18 and April 5. When you receive an email from FCPS Surveys, please take a few minutes to complete the questionnaire. Your feedback matters!
Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership in your child's education. As always, if you have any questions or would like to get involved in school activities, please don't hesitate to reach out.
Warm regards,
Kambar
#OneStallion
Together As One!
April is the annual celebration of Month of the Military Child, a time to honor the sacrifices made by military families worldwide, with an emphasis on the experiences of the dependent children of military members serving at home and overseas. We’re creating a display for the Month of the Military Child that visually portrays the many different locations that SOCO students have lived and moved throughout their lives. If you would like to participate, we encourage you to complete the google form below, that will allow us to collect the information for the display.
MOMC Map Display Link
FAMILY ENGAGEMENT SURVEY
Dear Parents:
Please help us improve our services by completing this family engagement survey.
Available in English and 9 more languages.
Last day to complete this survey is March 22nd, 2024.
If you have any questions, do not hesitate to call our Parent Liaison Ms. Kanamori at 703-446-1640 or email her at eekanamori@fcps.edu
2024 Basketball Summer Camp
See attached Flyer
2024 Volleyball Summer Camp
https://www.stallionsvolleyball.com/
Upcoming Events for Junior Families
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. Please use the links below to join:
Virtual Drug Presentation Messaging
The Fairfax Prevention Coalition is hosting a virtual presentation on Effective Drug Presentation Messaging on April 10, 2024 from 1-3PM EST, featuring Barbara de Nekker with Community-The Anti-Drug Coalition (CTAD). This presentation is open to all who inspire drug free youth. Please share the attached flyer with your teams and networks. Registration link can be found here
🎤 Join a Community Conversation on Fentanyl and Other Drugs
A community conversation addressing the opioid crisis within Northern Virginia and Fairfax County Public Schools will be held Monday, March 18, 6:30-8 p.m., in the auditorium at Lake Braddock Secondary School. Please enter through Door #14.
All attendees will receive a free REVIVE! Narcan training during the event and learn about support services currently available within FCPS and Fairfax County.
This discussion will provide families, staff, and students with valuable knowledge about the dangers of drugs and deadly fentanyl. The material discussed is suitable for students in grade 6 and higher. Together, as a community, we aim to explore collaborative strategies to minimize the impact of these harmful and sometimes fatal substances.
Language interpretation services are available as well as American Sign Language accommodation. Childcare and transportation will also be provided, as needed. Learn more about the event and register online.
Additionally, we are offering an opportunity for high school students to earn 1.5 — or more — service learning hours. To receive this service learning time, they will need to:
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Join the Conversation: Encourage students to register, attend, and be part of the discussion. Registration is not required, but will help us plan.
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Check In: Remind them to check in with FCPS staff at the student registration table at the event.
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Share Their Action: They must identify one way to raise awareness about the dangers of opioids, fentanyl, and other drugs among their peers, and indicate that action on the “Exit Ticket” which they will receive upon check-in.
Students who volunteer to assist at the event may earn additional service hours. Those interested in volunteering must fill out this form no later than 10 am. Monday, March 18. They can track their service hours in x2VOL, and we will provide guidance on recording their hours.
Note: Material at the event is suitable for students in grades 6-12. Students volunteering to assist at the event must be high school students.
For more details, visit FCPS’ website.
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.
South County High School Hosts Winterguard & Drumline Competition
South County High School Band is hosting and competing in a major competition this month. On March 23rd, South County HS will host The Atlantic Indoor Association (AIA) Winterguard and Drumline Championships. The winterguard incorporates flags, sabers, mock rifles with dance. The drumline is composed of several types of drums divided into the pit, battery and front ensemble with cymbals, xylophones, snare drums, and base drums rounding out the sound.
Winterguard and drumline ensembles are ready to compete at AIA, so come on down to see a great show. There are volunteer opportunities as well. For more information, go to www.schsbands.org.
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
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*
South County ATHLETICS
Important SoCo and FCPS Resources
How to Stay In Touch
Please stay in touch with us throughout the year by:
Quick Links
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