WPHS News You Choose - 4/12/24

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.


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Table of Contents:

  • Important Dates 
  • Principal’s Message 
  • End of Year Exam/Testing Calendar and Laptop Collection
  • School News 
  • PTSA News  
  • College & Career Center
  • School Fundraisers 
  • Class of 2024 Info & Fundraisers 
  • Class of 2025 – Prom Information 

Important Dates

  • April 16: WPHS 9th & 10th Grade College Night 101 - Cafeteria
  • April 17: Panera Restaurant Night – Choral Boosters
  • April 17: Purple Up Pot Lock – Military Families - Cafeteria 
  • April 18: WPHS Annual Job Fair – Cafeteria
  • April 19: Honeygrow Restaurant Night – PTSA Fundraiser 
  • April 19: Last day to purchase Prom tickets
  • April 20: PROM, Torpedo Factory, 8:00-11:00 pm
  • April 22: Purple Star Club El Fresco Restaurant Night 
  • April 24: Five Guys Restaurant Night – Class of 2024
  • April 25 – May 4: Kinky Boots (Spring Musical)
  • May 30: Senior Trip – Kings Dominion 
  • June 3: Class of 2024 Senior Bash - WPHS Auxiliary Field. Rain date is June 6
  • June 10: End Date for Class of 2024 Flamingo Fundraiser

Principal’s Message

Dear Wolverine Community,

Happy Friday everyone. 

I am learning why I love this community so much.  Recently, I have been able to interact with some amazing students and families that really love West Potomac and truly show their Wolverine Pride!  It makes me proud. 

As we move closer to graduation and testing season let’s keep our students showing up every day!  

Below are a few ways we can all give back whether it is through the PTSA or Food for Neighbors. 

Join the 2024- 2025 WPHS PTSA BOARD

We are excited to announce that the WP PTSA Board is currently seeking nominations for open board positions for the upcoming 2024-2025 academic year.   Open positions include President, President-Elect, VP of Fundraising, VP Student Recognition, Treasurer, and Secretary. We are also seeking Chair(s) for Teacher Appreciation Events.  As the Academic Booster Club, the PTSA supports Teacher/Faculty grants, celebrates students through various programs including the very popular Moe’s Honor Roll celebrations, supports the purchasing of needed school items, and much more.  The Executive Board meets monthly with me and participates in the once-a-month General Membership Meetings.  Your involvement and support will directly impact the success of our school and support our students becoming their full potential.  To learn more about a position, please e-mail Liz Ver Hage at lizvh248@gmail.com or ptsa.westpotomac@gmail.com.    #Go Wolverines#. 

West Potomac High School has been partnering with Food For Neighbors since 2018 to help feed our local students who deal with food insecurity.  Even in a county as wealthy as Fairfax, one in three kids in our area are struggling with hunger.

Food for Neighbors is a local organization addressing this problem by collecting and toiletries from our community via their Red Bag Program and donating directly to our local schools. The food is then distributed to the students in need through our food pantry.

We hope you will consider participating in the Red Bag food collection program. You can make a difference in a local student’s life by simply adding a few extra items to your shopping cart every 2 months. 

 Here’s how it works:

  1. Request a reusable Red Bag here and Food For Neighbors will drop it off at your house.
  2. Fill the Red Bag with food and toiletry items that are listed on a tag on that bag. 
  3. Put the Red Bag outside your front door in the morning on the next bag collection day. (Collection dates are also listed on the tag.)

Your Red Bag will be picked up from your house and the food delivered to Whitman MS and then distributed to our school so we can share with students in need through our pantry.  As an added benefit, you can get a tax deduction for the food that you donate!

With your help, even more kids can be fed. For more information on the Red Bag program click here.

Other volunteer opportunities include driving to pick up filled Red Bags and sorting the donated food during the Red Bag Day events. Visit the FFN FAQ page to find out more about and to sign up to volunteer in these 2 very important roles. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to Laura Wainwright (FFN Ft. Hunt Area Manager) laura@foodforneighbors.org

Thanks for helping us provide food to students who need this extra support! 

Lastly, I was able to attend the PTSA Meeting on Tuesday.  We had an awesome group of seniors that sat on a panel to discuss their experiences deciding what to do after high school.  It was very informative and great to see our students in action. 

PTSA

Fondly,

Jessica Statz, Principal

Attendance

End of Year Exam/Testing Calendar and Laptop Collection

  • On our website you can now find our end of year calendar to include testing dates, early dismissals and alternate bell schedules. In the coming days you and your child will receive an individual email with details on any SOL Tests they may be scheduled for this Spring. 
  • We have also published our laptop collection dates:
    • Senior Laptop Collection (Room 311) - May 20-24
      • Note: If a senior needs to keep their laptop later to finish class requirements they can do so and return it to our tech team prior to Graduation
    • Underclass Laptop Collection (Room 311) - June 6-7
    • Underclass Laptop Collection (Cafeteria) - June 10-11

SCHOOL NEWS

AP Test Proctors/Monitors Volunteers Needed!

  • We need your help!  With AP tests around the corner, its important we always meet the required number of proctors in the room required by college board.  Please consider volunteering for an exam!  By utilizing parent volunteers we will require less counselors in the gym and allow them to continue to work with their students during the school day.
    • What is required of me? For morning tests arrive approximately 7:40am and follow the directions of the lead proctor.  This might include passing out tests, pencils, assisting with bathroom breaks or just supervising.  During the test you’ll supervise the students by circulating through out the gym.  At the conclusion of the test you’ll assist the lead proctors in collecting materials. 
    • How long will the test run? Traditionally morning test end around 12pm, but could go slightly longer or end earlier.  Afternoon proctors should arrive approximately 11:45am and end around 4pm but again could go slightly longer or end earlier.
    • I can help, where do I sign up? HERE
    • I can help support but I would need to leave a few minutes early, can I still help? YES!  Please email Mr. McMahon and he can coordinate with you (kjmcmahon@fcps.edu).
    • Please remember: Parent volunteers may not proctor a test that their child is taking.  Also, a parent volunteer cannot be a teacher of the class assigned to the AP Exam (For example an AP Biology teacher cannot volunteer to proctor the AP Biology exam).

Military Families:

West Potomac High School’s Purple Star Club is hosting a Purple Up Pot Luck on April 17th starting at 6:30PM in the cafeteria at West Potomac High School.  April 17th, 2024 is also designated as “Purple Up! For Military Kids Day” by VDOE.

Parents/Guardians: Please use this link to RSVP and to sign up for an item to bring and share at this event: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4FABAB22A0FEC70-48853726-purple

RSVP by Wednesday, April 10th.

  • Please email kmoconnor@fcps.edu if you would like to volunteer to support some of the logistical needs of this event on April 17th.
  • Please email kmoconnor@fcps.edu if you have a cooler that we can borrow for this event. 
College 101 Night

Attention All Freshmen & Sophomores!

There will be a College 101 Night for all Class of 2026 & Class of 2027 students and families on Tuesday, April 16th at 6:30pm in the school cafeteria. We will have a workshop with college representatives from various colleges and members of our Student Services team. Please see attached flyer for more details.

 

Thank you,

WPHS Student Services

Theatre 1Theatre 2

PTSA NEWS

Join the 2024- 2025 WPHS PTSA BOARD

We are excited to announce that the WP PTSA Board is currently seeking nominations for open board positions for the upcoming 2024-2025 academic year.   Open positions include President, President-Elect, VP of Fundraising, VP Student Recognition, Treasurer, and Secretary. We are also seeking Chair(s) for Teacher Appreciation Events.  As the Academic Booster Club, the PTSA supports Teacher/Faculty grants, celebrates students through various programs including the very popular Moe’s Honor Roll celebrations, supports the purchasing of needed school items, and much more.  The Executive Board meets monthly with Principal Statz and participates in the once-a-month General Membership Meetings.  Your involvement and support will directly impact the success of our school and support our students becoming their full potential.  To learn more about a position, please e-mail Liz Ver Hage at lizvh248@gmail.com

Honeygrow Restaurant Night:  April 19th - Come out and support WPHS PTSA Event runs from 10:30 AM-10:00 PM.  20% of your purchase goes directly back to the PTSA. Funds raised will be used for academic enrichment programs, grants, and more.  

Use promo code GIVE149 on the honeygrow app, at honeygrow.com, or in-store, located at Mount Vernon Plaza (near Moe’s) at the kiosk before checking out.  If ordering in person, please mention West Potomac High School PTSA.in order for PTSA to earn funds

HoneyGrow

FREE AP Test Prep 

Applerouth is offering free graded practice AP tests in a wide range of popular subjects this spring. These tests are an excellent tool to help students gauge their progress, focus their efforts, and achieve success on the official AP exams in May. West Po. students can use promo code APMC20 to gain access to: 

  • FREE multiple-choice section grading (regularly priced $20) 
  • Optional detailed FRQ feedback for $50 per test 

Contact us at (866)-789-PREP (7737), or visit here to get started. 


SAT Prep

Need Flexibility? We have an online class option! Try Applerouth’sSelf-Paced Online Course - Animated video lessons and comprehensive practice for every section of the Digital SAT or ACT. Available for purchase ($125.00) on the PTSA’s MemberHubStore. More details about content for SAT course available here. More about the ACT course here. 

Test optional does not mean test blind! Many students still provide test scores with their college applications. Test scores are used for admissions, scholarships, and class placement. Take a mock test to see if you’re in the scholarship range or just a prep class away from that range. Test optional means YOU CHOOSE whether or not to send your scores. A good test score can only strengthen your application. 

Read this recent news about Darthmouth’s reasons for reinstating the SAT/ACT score submission requirement - ABC News Dartmouth 

PTSA Test Prep Chair, Marilyn Aboff, marilynaboff@yahoo.com 

WPHS Test Prep Web Page – for more details about test prep and events 


COLLEGE AND CAREER CENTER NEWS

Wolverines!

Please take note of upcoming opportunities for students and families.

WPHS 9th & 10th Grade College 101 Night

Students and parents/guardians are invited to join us for our College 101 workshop with college representatives and our Student Services Team.  The

event will be held on 4/16/24 from 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. in the WPHS cafeteria.  Registration is not required to attend.

WPHS Annual Job Fair - 4/18

The West Potomac HS Annual Job Fair will be held on Thursday, 4/18/24 from 3 p.m. – 4:15 p.m. in the WPHS cafeteria.  Local employers will be onsite to hire students for summer and post high school jobs.  All students are welcome to attend; however, most job opportunities will be for students 16+ years old.  Registration is not required to attend.

Senator Mark Warner Military Academy Day

Interested in attending a U.S. Military Academy?  Senator Mark R. Warner invites high school and middle school students along with their parents or guardians to Academy Day 2024 on Saturday, 4/20/24.  The event will be held on the campus of Randolph-Macon College in Ashland, VA from 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.  Families can register at  https://senwarner.ticketbud.com/acadday24 .

NOVA Medical Education Campus Open House & Health Expo

Northern Virginia Community College will hold their annual Open House & Health Expo showcasing the Medical Education Campus (MEC) on Saturday, 4/20/24 from 11 AM-2 PM at 6699 Springfield Center Drive in Springfield, VA.

Students can learn about associate degrees and certificate programs offered at the MEC, chat with NOVA's Office of Recruitment and Admissions, get free screenings and testing done by VHC Health and NovaSalud, Inc., and more!  Register here: https://bit.ly/43JJRnK

NOVA STEM Day – Alexandria Campus

STEM Day at Northern Virginia Community College is a showcase of Science, Technology, Engineering & Math.  The event will be held at the Alexandria Campus on Saturday, 4/20/24 from 1 PM – 2PM.  Students can participate in microscope sessions, interactive science labs & demonstrations, dissection opportunities and hands on physics, geology, chemistry, and biology experiments.

This free event is for students who are inquisitive about how things work and want to discover the fun of STEM!   Questions? Contact Dr. Teba Aljumaili at taljumaili@nvcc.edu .


SCHOOL FUNDRAISERS 

Purple Star ClubPaneraDance

CLASS OF 2024 NEWS

Important Dates:

April 24: Five Guys Restaurant Night from 4:00-8:00pm

June 3rd: Class of 2024 Senior Bash to be held on the West Potomac Aux field. Rain date is June 6th.

Five GuysGraduation

June 3rd: Class of 2024 Senior Bash from 6:30-10:30 pm on the WPHS practice turf fields. All Members of the WPHS Class of 2024 are invited!

(Rain date is June 6th.)  We are now pre-selling tickets to the Senior Bash. Purchase your tickets now for $30 before prices go up to $35 in late May. Please follow the link below.

https://westpotomacptsa.memberhub.com/store/items/998651

Our Flocking Fundraiser is in Full Swing! Flock your student to celebrate a birthday, a milestone, a promposal or just for fun! Flock your friends, your neighbors, or anyone who needs a laugh. All proceeds will go directly to the Senior Celebration events held in April and June. 

All flockings will take place in the cover of darkness so be forewarned!

Click this link to pick your date! 

https://westpotomacptsa.memberhub.com/store/items/983635

Flamingo

The countdown is on! Not to cause a panic, but we are officially in the last 8 weeks of school before our seniors graduate!

Parents, please check out our Sign-Up Genius below. We still have plenty of opportunities for you to volunteer or contribute to the remaining Class of 2024 events.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0B4EACA82CAAFBC52-47711568-class 

Senior Parents: Please check out & join the WPHS Class of 2024 Facebook & Instagram group. It’s a great way to keep updated on all the upcoming events, graduation information & opportunities that pertain to this year. We still have several volunteer opportunities for the remaining two Senior events & activities this school year. We want this to be the BEST year for our 2024 seniors!!

https://www.facebook.com/share/iTgiFSSv1zgKUvjd/?mibextid=K35XfP

westpo24_seniorcelebrations

https://instagram.com/westpo24_seniorcelebrations?igshid=M2RkZGJiMzhjOQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr


CLASS OF 2024 SPONSORS 

Senior trip to Kings Dominion is on May 30th !!!  Cost is $75 that includes transportation by motorcoach and ticket. Payment can be made via MySchoolBucks  … search senior trip to Kings Dominion or in 718 and 605.  It closes May 2nd .  Questions? Contact Ms. Simpson at jsimpson1@fcps.edu or Ms. Hackshaw at chackshaw@fcps.edu 


CLASS OF 2025 

Prom

The Class of 2025 is hosting JUNIOR & SENIOR WPHS PROM 2024!!

Please join us for an Enchanting Evening

WHEN: Saturday, April 20th

WHERE: Torpedo Factory (Old Town, Alexandria)

TIME: 8pm-11pm

TICKET SALES

LAST CHANCE FOR THE EARLY BIRD SPECIAL -Go to MySchoolBucks Ticket Price $70 until 4/14!!! (preferred method) Once paid, you can pick up your ticket in the Cafeteria.  -Ticket prices will go up to $80 the week before Prom! Ticket LUNCH SALES will end on Friday, April 19th Cash/Check sales will be $80 (please bring exact change, checks made payable to WPHS)  -NOTE: ALL Guest Forms were due Friday 4/12. No more guest forms will be handed out.

PARKING INFORMATION

-The front of the Torpedo Factory will be cleared for Bus, Uber, Lyft, Taxi Parent drop off.  PLEASE CONSIDER CARPOOLING/DROP OFF/UBER/LYFT/Public Transport since we are so close to home!  -There are many parking garages near the Torpedo Factory where students can park. Prices range from $5 - $14 as the weekend rate. (students have a link with detailed garage information)  -ParkMobile App can be used to pay/refill metered parking spots.

PARENT HELP

PARENTS! PROM is fast approaching!  

Please consider helping with your time. On the day of Prom we will need help setting up, chaperoning and cleaning up.  Click Here to sign up or see link below. We are also looking for donations for decorations and snacks for our chaperones. Donations can be made via MySchoolBucks  (please note you may have to copy and paste links)

Help with Prom  https://www.signupgenius.com/go/508094FA4AE2CA64-48644019-prom

Class of 2025 Donation:

https://www.myschoolbucks.com/ver2/stores/checkout/getproduct?clientKey=ZZI5ZQWBKS04NJ8&buttonID=26571b29-ac2a-40c3-b579-5d309820cb02  

Please email Class of 2025 sponsors with any questions: Sejal Parekh snparekh@fcps.edu and/or Tracy Scheel tascheel@fcps.edu 

JOIN our Instagram page! “WestPo2025SGA”https://www.instagram.com/westpo2025sga/ 

JOIN our Facebook page! “West Potomac HS-Class of 2025” 

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1097261814782770/?mibextid=uJjRxr This is a private group for parents and students.