 |
|
Upcoming Events
April 10: Student Holiday: Eid al Fitr (begins sundown 4/9)
April 11: Junior Focus Day
April 12: Junior/Senior Prom, 8pm, Sweeney Barn
April 13: ACT testing @ FHS
April 17: Pyramid Art Show
April 18-20, 25-27: FX Players Presents Anastasia
May 3: Principal's Coffee, 7:30am, Library
|
Acceso de News You Choose en Español: Haga clic aquí.
April is School Library Month
Happy School Library Month to our phenomenal Librarians, Lyndsay Friedman and Lynette Constantinides! Our library is a safe and welcoming space for all sorts of creativity and learning. THANK YOU for all you do!
April 5, 2024
Happy Friday Fairfax Families!
Our 4th quarter has come ROARing in, and we are ready to finish strong. I hope that you enjoyed a relaxing spring break and are ready for both focus and fun in this final chapter of the school year.
This week we celebrated the Assistant Principals! This amazing team works hard to support students and staff and is always elated to collaborate with our families and community. We "thank you" for all you do! I am grateful for their leadership.
We also celebrated our school librarians this week. Our library is a space for exploration, innovation, creation, and exposure. The rigorous research lessons provided, the weekly book trailers, the ever-changing displays, the accessible reorganization of our collections, and the favorite puzzles are always making 🪄 magic for our Lions.
Last night we celebrated the completion of the new turf fields for baseball, and softball. These facilities are top notch, and we are thankful to the City of Fairfax and City School Board for providing our school community with these resources!
These last few weeks are always action packed and filled with JOY and accomplishment! Anastasia, Arts, Prom, Graduation, Awards, and College Fairs are just a few of our upcoming activities.
Happy Friday Fairfax Family, thank you for your partnership,
Included in this issue:
Student Spotlight
- Sadie Buckley, Olympic Swim Trials Qualifier
- Rotary Youth Contest Winners, William Choi and Alexandra Hill
- Prom Dress Giveaway Event
Staff Spotlight
- Assistant Principals Week, April 1-5
Fairfax Lions Need to Know:
- Calendar Reminders: Month of the Military Child, National Arab American Heritage Month, National Muslim American Heritage Month, Earth Day
- Updated COVID Recommendations for FCPS
- Solar Eclipse, Monday, April 8
- FCPS Budget Focuses on School and Instruction
- Nominations Open for Bussey Memorial Equity Award
- FCPS Family Summit 2024
Fairfax Lions Nice to Know:
- Fairfax Pyramid Art Show
- NEW! ACE Sewing 101 Class
- Athletic Training Fundraiser
- Junior/Senior Prom, April 12, Sweeney Barn
- Annual Prom Dress Shop opens at Centreville HS
- FX Players Presents Anastasia: The Musical
- Jostens Graduation Order info
- Connect - Contact - Reach Us
Fairfax HS PTSA
- ANG Update - Ticket prices will go up!
- Graduation Yard Signs on Sale
- PTSA Membership
Sadie Buckley qualifies for Olympic Swim Trials
 |
|
9th grader, Sadie Buckley, qualified for the Olympic swim trials coming up this June in Indianapolis
These trials include only the TOP level swimmers in the country, regardless of age, and they will compete to become part of the Olympic team this summer in Paris.
Way to go, Sadie! We are so PROUD of you!
|
Rotary Youth Contest Winners
 |
|
Junior William Choi won the Club level and Area level contests in Music! His entry has been submitted for the District level contest April 13.
Senior Alexandra Hill won the Club and Area level contests in Speech, on the Rotary theme of Creating Hope in the World. She also moves on to the District level contest April 13.
Congrats, Lions! So proud!!
|
Prom Dress Giveaway Event
Fairfax student, Esther Cameron, partnered with Fashion Club to collect and offer prom dresses at no cost to students.
It is so impressive that these students collected dresses and created a “no questions asked” environment for ALL to try on dresses and take one (or two) home. Several asked to take a dress to a family member.
The environment was festive, inclusive, and joyful. It is with Fairfax Pride that we share that over 100 dresses were collected and over 40 dresses were distributed on the first day! The remaining dresses are available in the Family Engagement office.
National Assistant Principals Week, April 1-5
Fairfax HS is fortunate to have the best Administration team around! Our Assistant Principals, Ashley Anderson, Berneatta Barnes, Andrea Cook, Maria Faz, Troy Ketch, Nancy Melnick, Brian Plancich, and Dana Walker, are always here and working hard to support Principal Aye, our students and staff in everything FHS. Happy Assistant Principals Week, and thank you for all you do!
Calendar Reminders:
Every year, we take an opportunity to recognize military-connected youth for their service and contribution to our community. Fairfax County Public Schools is proud to have more than 14,000 military-connected youth as a part of our student body. We appreciate the varied life experiences they bring to our school community, and recognize their strength and resilience.
Learn more about Month of the Military Child and visit FCPS’ Military Families webpage. Get ideas for learning resources in this Month of the Military Child toolkit.
Eid al-Fitr (Half-O Day, Holiday)
In Islam, Eid-al-Fitr is a three-day festival to mark the end of Ramadan. Tuesday, April 9, is an evening observance day. There is school on this day, but important events will not be held after school. Wednesday, April 10, is an FCPS holiday; all schools and offices will be closed. See the school year calendar or the employee calendar.
FCPS is proud to celebrate National Arab American Heritage Month in April. This special month provides an opportunity to recognize the history and valuable contributions of Arab Americans.
Arab Americans have ancestry in one of the world’s 22 Arab nations, which are located from northern Africa through western Asia. The people of these nations are ethnically, politically, and religiously diverse but share a common cultural and linguistic heritage.
Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.
Muslim American Heritage Month is a time for celebrating the history, contributions, culture, and an enhanced understanding of the diverse population of Muslim Americans. View the Fairfax County School Board resolution honoring Muslim American Heritage Month.
🌏 Earth Week Resources for Schools
Get2Green is hosting FCPS Earth Week from Monday, April 22, to Friday, April 26. Check the Get2Green Earth Week webpage for Earth Week spirit days and other activities for students of all ages.
Fairfax County Park Authority's Earth Day Festival will be held Saturday, April 20, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Sully Historic Site. The festival will include earth and nature-focused programs, scavenger hunts, and other activities.
Ramadan: Sundown, March 10 - April 9.
 |
|
The Library and Hallway 23 spaces are designated areas within our school. Students can engage in prayer, meditation, or silent reflection, inclusive of their religious or non-religious beliefs. Parents/caregivers must provide written permission for students requesting to miss instructional time on a regular basis, permission slips and passes are available in Student Services. |
🤧 Updated COVID Recommendations
In accordance with the updated Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) respiratory virus guidance, FCPS and the Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD) have updated school COVID-19 recommendations.
The COVID-19 isolation period of five days is no longer recommended.
New respiratory virus guidance applies to respiratory viral illnesses, including COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Students who have symptoms of, test positive for, or have been diagnosed with a respiratory virus may return to school when the student is fever-free for 24 hours without fever reducing medication; AND the student’s symptoms have improved or resolved.
Students should follow additional precautions as outlined per the CDC upon resumption of normal activities.
Should I Send My Child to School?
Please refer to the chart on this attendance webpage if your child is experiencing symptoms or illnesses, and you are unsure if they should go to school.
Thank you for helping keep our students and staff healthy.
Solar Eclipse, Monday, April 8
A solar eclipse is happening on April 8, 2024. It's a rare and exciting astronomical phenomenon and one that requires important safety reminders. Looking directly at the sun, even during an eclipse, can permanently damage your eyes.
Here's what you need to know:
-
Don't look at the sun without approved eyewear. This applies to students and staff, and we encourage you to reinforce this at home.
-
Regular sunglasses are not good enough. The NASA website has more information about eye safety.
-
Eclipse timing: The eclipse starts around 2:04 p.m., peaks at 3:20 p.m. (which coincides with dismissal for some students), and ends around 4:32 p.m. Please remind your child to be especially vigilant about eye safety during dismissal. If you have concerns about your child walking or riding the bus home, please arrange for alternative transportation.
For more details, visit the FCPS Solar Eclipse webpage.
🏫 Advertised Budget Focuses on Schools and Instruction
Investing in excellence means putting our dollars where it matters most — schools and instruction. Nearly 93% of FCPS full-time staff work directly in our schools. And nearly 86% of FCPS’ Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Advertised Budget is dedicated to instructional programs across all grade levels, including special education.
Only 5% of the advertised budget is for general support and central administration. Central office administrators represent only 0.8% of total full-time positions.
For more details on FCPS’ advertised budget, view budget documents, including the FY 2025 Budget Book.
Check out the Budget Calendar for important dates in the budget process as well as opportunities for the community to provide feedback.
🗳️ Nominations Open for the Bussey Memorial Equity Award
The Minority Student Achievement Oversight Committee (MSAOC) sponsors the Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award to honor the legacy of Dr. Bussey, a founding member of the MSAOC and a longtime advocate for students and families. Read more about Dr. Bussey.
This award recognizes staff or community members who have demonstrated significant and impactful efforts to improve the educational experiences and outcomes of students from groups who are marginalized or underserved.
Any FCPS employee, student, or community member can nominate an individual or group for the award. All nomination materials must be submitted by Wednesday, May 1. The winner will be recognized at the FCPS Equity Symposium on Tuesday, June 18.
Full details and the nomination information form are available on the Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award webpage.
FCPS Family Summit 2024
Safe, Supported, and Included — the FCPS Family Summit 2024
The FCPS Family Summit will take place on Saturday, April 20, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Marshall High School. The conference will cover topics that are helpful for all families, such as social-emotional resources, along with a specially curated online component to provide supports for students with disabilities and their families.
Some of the topics include raising resilient, independent children; forming meaningful connections with children; addressing big emotions; and the dangers of opioids and fentanyl. The conference is being planned by several FCPS offices in collaboration with the Fairfax Alliance of Black School Educators, Black Women’s Educational Alliance - DC Chapter, Hispanic Educators Association, and Asian Educators Association.
This year’s theme is Safe, Supported, and Included, which aligns with Goal 2 of the FCPS Strategic Plan. More details will be available after spring break.
Fairfax Lions Nice to Know:
Fairfax Art Show
The Fairfax Art Show is on Wednesday, April 17, 2024. The High School Show is from 8:10-2:55 and the Community Show, including FHS is from 5:30-7:30.
NEW! ACE Machine Sewing 101 Class 🧵🪡
Hey, Fairfax! Have you always wanted to learn how to use a sewing machine? Or are you looking for a new hobby?? Well this is for you! A new sewing class is being offered by FCPS Adult Community Education (ACE), and the instructor is our own Fairfax Academy Fashion Careers teacher, Kendall Barry.
Six sessions total in May and June - No Experience Required! Here is the direct link to the course. Sign up early, seats will fill up fast!
Please support our Athletic Training Fundraiser!
Annual athletic training fundraiser physical night May 13th. This is our only fundraiser for us to buy supplies and equipment for the athlete training program. This physical will be good for all sports activities for 2024-2025 school year. To register for a time slot use this link:
We are always looking for volunteers for the night. If any parents are health professionals and would like to volunteer here is the link below:
Thank you for your support!
Junior/Senior Prom, April 12, Sweeney Barn
JUNIOR/SENIOR PROM 2024
FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 8PM
SWEENEY BARN Manassas, VA
IMPORTANT UPDATES:
To accommodate students who would like to buy a ticket by cash or check, Prom tickets will be available for sale, for $75, during all lunches on April 3rd.
Payment through MySchoolBucks will still be available during this time.
PROM Ticket Sales Timeline:
March 14 - April 3: $75
April 4 - April 11: $85
ONLY 400 TICKETS WILL BE SOLD
NO TICKETS WILL BE SOLD AT THE DOOR
IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS:
- All student obligations must be paid before/when you purchase a prom ticket. Obligations lists are available in the subschools, A114 and D127, or you may log into www.myschoolbucks.com and check your INVOICES folder.
- Students receiving free or reduced benefits please check your school email for more information, if you have not already done so.
-
Bringing a guest from another school? Guest forms are available in the sub schools, A114 or D127. Forms must be filled out and returned to the sub school for approval within two days of purchasing a ticket. The last day to submit a guest form is April 5, 2024.
👗 Prom Dress Shop Opens With Hundreds of Dresses
The annual Prom Dress Shop opens for the season on Friday, April 5, at Centreville High School. Any area student — not just those from Fairfax County Public Schools — who do not have the funds to purchase a prom dress may choose from hundreds of new dresses donated by Macy’s. Learn more and see shop hours.
FX Players presents Anastasia: The Musical
The FX Players are proud to present Anastasia: The Musical. This show is based on the 1997 20th Century Fox animated film and the history of the Romanov family. From Tony winners Terrence McNally, Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens, creators of such Broadway classics as Ragtime and Once On This Island, this dazzling show transports its audience from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s, as a brave young woman sets out to discover the mystery of her past. Pursued by a ruthless Soviet officer determined to silence her, Anya enlists the aid of a dashing con man and a lovable ex-aristocrat. Together, they embark on an epic adventure to help her find home, love, and family.
Tickets can be purchased at www.fxplayers.org. Tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for students, and $15 at the door.
Graduation Announcements, Cards and Rings
 Senior Families ~ There is still time to order CUSTOM Graduation Announcements, Name Cards, and Class Rings. We are heading into the home stretch! Use Promo Code SENIORGIFT75 at Checkout for Senior Rings.
To shop and order, visit: https://www.jostens.com/apps/store/customer/1120029/Fairfax-High-School/
throughout the year:
Fairfax HS PTSA
Table of Contents:
- ANG Update - Tickets prices will go up!
- Graduation Yard Signs on Sale
- PTSA Membership
We are looking to create a nominating committee of three who will work together during the months of March and April to nominate eligible volunteers for the 2024-2025 PTSA Executive Board. Our goal is to have the board reflect the diversity of our school community and classrooms. We will have a list of potential openings soon and we need a nominating committee to pull it all together. If you can help please contact PTSA President, Maria Array, at president@fairfaxptsa.org.
ANG Update ~ Get Your Tickets NOW!
Early-Bird Ticket Pricing Ends Friday!
Tickets for the All Night Graduation Party are on sale now. Our early bird price for a ticket is $45. Prices go up after this Friday. Tickets may be purchased online through the PTSA.
Free and reduced ticket order forms will be available to eligible students through the FHS front office.
The All Night Graduation Party will be held on the night of June 4. We have a great party planned for our graduates at the St. James sports complex that will include Basketball, Volleyball, Soccer, a Casino, DK/Karaoke, Golf Simulators, Airbrush Tattoo Artists, Carnival Games, Food, Prizes and the Super Awesome Amazing Room!
Help Needed for Concessions Booth, Plastic Modelers Classic on April 13
On Saturday, April 13, the All Night Grad Committee will be running the concessions booth at the Northern Virginia Plastic Modelers Classic held at Fairfax High School from 7 AM to 4 PM.
We need your help to staff the concessions booth on the day of the show. Concessions shifts are 3 hours each. Volunteers can be parents or students, there are slots for both. Students can sign up to earn service hours for volunteering.
To Volunteer, click this link to go to SignUpGenius: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F4EA9A62FA7F58-48617449-volunteers
We are also accepting donations of food and paper products to help us defray our costs in running the concessions booth. Donations can be dropped off in the FHS main office anytime the week of April 8-12th, but no later than 3 PM on Friday, April 12.
To Donate Items, click this link to go to SignUpGenius: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F4EA9A62FA7F58-48613692-concessions
Silent Auction Going Live on Friday, April 5
Fairfax High’s All Night Grad Online Silent Auction will be starting on Friday, April 5 at 9:00 am. There are a variety of intriguing auction items available for bidding online. This includes the always coveted VIP parking and VIP seating packages at graduation, car detailing at Farrish, Kate Spade Bags 3 Piece Collection, Rita's Italian Ice, graduation announcements/invitations by Klain designs and many more items.
To view the auction items and submit your bids you can go to the GalaBid website: https://app.galabid.com/fhsang2024
Feel free to share this link with your friends and neighbors, this is our last big fundraiser for the All Night Grad Party.
Next ANG Meeting: April 24, 2024
Our next Committee Meeting is on April 24, 7:00 pm, at FHS in the Multi-Purpose Room C105. (new location). We will discussing the party planning and our final fundraising push. We also will be looking for parent volunteers to help at the party on graduation night, June 4.
We encourage people to join us in person, but if that is not possible, we will be live streaming on Zoom:
Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81199262921
Meeting ID: 811 9926 2921
Graduation Yard Signs Now on Sale!
Purchase a graduation yard sign to recognize your graduate and inform the community of their accomplishment. Each sign is an 18” x 24” yard sign and individually customized with the graduate’s name. The price is $25 per sign.
The Graduation Yard Signs are available now on PTSA’s MemberHub online store: https://fairfaxhs.memberhub.com/store.
There are several packages to choose from in the PTSA MemberHub online store. The sign will be placed (by the All Night Grad Committee) outside FHS along Lion Run on Graduation Day. You can also buy additional signs to place in yards and windows.
Become a PTSA Member and/or Donate Today
Join the Parent Teacher Student Association, PTSA, to support our FHS teachers, students and community! Your dues and donations work to fund all of our activities and programs. Scan the code provided to JOIN NOW, and/or you can make a DONATION TODAY! Becoming a member does not mean you are committed to volunteering; Membership helps fund our budget, gives voting privileges, helps to keep you engaged and informed of what is happening in our school community, and provides opportunities to get involved if desired.
 |
|
Do you want to celebrate a Fairfax employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way? Or goes beyond what is expected? If so, then click here to share with everyone. |
|
