Important Upcoming Dates
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04/07-04/14- National Library Week
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04/10/24- 4-8pm- Fundraiser Panera SCHS Theatre Boosters
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04/10/24- Eid al-Fitr
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04/17/24- Purple Up! Month of the Military Child
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04/20/24- Lorton Spring Fling
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04/22-04/26- Public School Volunteer Week
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04/22/24- Earth Day
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04/22-04/23- Passover
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04/24/24- Theravada New Year
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04/24/24- Administrative Professionals Day
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05/02,3,4,9,10- 7:00pm- Theatre Arts Department- Singin’ in the Rain
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05/04/24- 2:00 pm- Theatre Arts Department- Singin’ in the Rain
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.
Message from Dr. Khoshaba
Dear SoCo Family,
Happy April, SoCo family!
What a joy it has been to welcome back our students, staff, and families into the heart of our school this past week. As I strolled through the halls, I couldn’t help but feel the warmth and energy that only our Stallions bring. It's a reminder that our school isn’t just a building; it's a vibrant community made special by each and every one of you.
Let's take a look at the highlights from this week:
Incredible Instruction Continues:
I had the pleasure of witnessing a truly unique lesson in Mason's World History class. As he taught students about the formation of the Middle East and its historical conflicts, he was joined by the Secondary Social Studies Supervisor, Mr. Perrier. The two of them collaborated and co-taught an engaging lesson on a very sensitive and timely topic. It's moments like these that truly showcase the dedication and creativity of our teachers.
And a round of applause to Mr. Christie, who taught his Photography students about the various ways to adapt and adjust the photos. Mr. Christie masterfully modeled the techniques of blurring and dual lighting of images. After his instruction concluded and students worked on their projects, I was able to learn from individual students how they complete their projects. The level of detail that they explained to me left me stunned in amazement of their special talents.
In addition to this outstanding class, I’d also like to praise he and his students for their stunning new artwork adorning our halls. Their talent never fails to brighten our days. On a personal note, as an avid billiards player, I am particularly fond of the fourth picture below. If anyone knows who this artist is, please let me know. I’d love to hear the details of what inspired this artist to create such a special piece.
Upcoming Events:
Don't forget to mark your calendars for Breakfast with the Principal this Tuesday, April 9. It's always a pleasure to connect with our SoCo students over juice and breakfast foods while we discuss the state of our school through their eyes. This is the second time we are gathering, so please help bolster attendance by encouraging your student to attend if they are interested. We’ll start at 7:30am in the main office.
Plus, save the date for our highly anticipated Art Gala on April 25 at 6:00 pm. We can't wait to celebrate the artistic achievements of our students together. This is the first time we have hosted such an event at our school, and there are several staff members coordinating this unique celebration of the Arts. I’d like to specifically thank the Fine Arts Department Chair, Ms. Justyne Fischer, for coordinating the various staff and their efforts. Ms. Fischer is an accomplished artist in her own right, and I am fully confidant that the presentation of our students’ projects that night will be something we will all remember in the years to come.
Clarifying Procedures:
A gentle reminder about the importance of notifying the Attendance Office of student absences. Your cooperation helps us ensure the safety and well-being of all our students. When you are aware of the need for your student to arrive late to or leave early from school, please provide us with that information as soon as possible. Last minute calls or requests cannot be accommodated as quickly as pre-planned messages. The Attendance Office personnel and I appreciate your cooperation and understanding.
Let's also re-emphasize our parking lot procedures for smoother traffic flow and enhanced safety. Please refer to the image below for a visual guide. Specifically, parents and students are not permitted to enter or exit school property at the bus lane. This means drop offs on Laurel Crest are prohibited. Recently, there have been several incidents in which drivers are creating hazardous situations for our students and other drivers on the road. For example, drivers have stopped on the road to let students out of their vehicles as other cars are driving by. Students have to literally walk on the road as cars are driving past them. We also have drivers who are making U-turns across the double-yellow lines on the road. For everyone’s safety, please enter and exit our school property at the designated locations.
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In addition, please speak with your students who drive to school about the need to park only in the Student Lot, slow down to the 5 MPH, and have an approved decal displayed on their rear-view mirror. Violators of these existing policies will be ticketed and face possible revocation of their driving privileges.
Celebrations in April:
April is a month filled with meaningful observances. We're honoring the resilience and sacrifices of military children throughout the Month of the Military Child. Don't forget to Purple-Up on April 17 to show your support.
We're also celebrating National Arab American Appreciation Month and the upcoming Eid al-Fitr holiday. As FCPS schools will be closed on Wednesday, April 10 for the holiday, let's take this opportunity to learn more about the traditions and cultures of our diverse community. Visit https://www.insightintodiversity.com/national-arab-american-heritage-month/ for more information.
Important Safety Reminder:
Lastly, a word of caution regarding the solar eclipse happening on April 8. While this astronomical event is undoubtedly exciting, let's prioritize safety. Remember to use approved eyewear and caution your children against looking directly at the sun. Here are some points to keep in mind:
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Don't look at the sun without approved eyewear. This applies to students and staff, and we encourage you to reinforce this at home.
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Regular sunglasses are not good enough. The NASA website has more information about eye safety.
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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.
As always, thank you for your unwavering support and partnership in creating a safe and nurturing environment for our students to thrive.
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
SCHS Leadership
We would appreciate any donations of items for the snack bags. You can either purchase off the Amazon Wishlist and items will be delivered to SCHS or if you would like to buy similar items from the grocery store and have them dropped at the main office.
South County Theatre Arts Department
The South County Theatre Arts Department is proud to present Singin’ in the Rain. With songs like Good Mornin’, Singin’ in the Rain, and All I Do is Dream of You, we know you’ll be dancing in your seat! Performances are on May 2, 3, 4, 9, 10 at 7 PM and May 4 at 2 PM. Purchase tickets at https://www.schstheatre.com/ or directly at this link. If you have any questions, please contact Molly Rumberger at mdrumberger@fcps.edu.
The SCHS Theatre Boosters
The SCHS Theatre Boosters are hosting a restaurant night on Wednesday, April 10th from 4-8pm at Panera at 9402 Lorton Market Street from 4-8pm. Enter/share the promo code FUND4U or show the flyer and SCHS Theatre Boosters will get 25% of the proceeds!
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
Don't forget to purchase your yearbook!
Yearbook sale now!
3rd Annual Lorton Spring Fling & Craft Show
Thank you for considering to volunteer your time to aid in raising funds for the PTSO.
We are in need of volunteers from 6:30AM-8:30AM, 1:30PM-3:00PM and a 2 people to set/up man the PTSO/INFO tent.
Please, contact CraftVol@southcountyptso.org for questions about volunteering or for general questions schscraftshow@gmail.com.
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
South County HS Athletics
AWARENESS MONTH
Month of the Military Child
April is the Month of the Military Child! Every year we take the opportunity to recognize military-connected youth for their service and contribution to our community. Fairfax County Public Schools is proud to have over 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 FCPS’ resources for military families.
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National Arab American Heritage Month
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.
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Muslim American Heritage Month
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.
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Autism Acceptance Month
April is Autism Acceptance Month. One in 44 children is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder in the United States, according to the CDC. Our schools and staff play a vital role in creating and ensuring inclusive environments that accommodate and affirm autistic students.
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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
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