From the Principal's Desk

upcoming events

Upcoming Events

April 17: Pyramid Art Show

April 18-20, 25-27: FX Players Presents Anastasia

April 24: ANG Meeting, 7pm, Library

April 27: Fairfax Academy MCT Fest, 3pm, Sherwood Community Center

May 2: Spring Orchestra Concert, 7pm, Auditorium

May 3: Principal's Coffee, 7:30am, Library

May 10: Fairfax Academy Dance Showcase, 7pm, FHS Auditorium; and May 11 @ 1pm. 

May 14: Spring Choral Concert, 7pm, Auditorium

May 16: Spring Band Concert, 7pm, Auditorium

May 27: Memorial Day Holiday, No School


Acceso de News You Choose en Español:  Haga clic aquí.


 

 

April 19, 2024

 

Happy Friday Fairfax! 

 

It has been a fantastic week of events and action here at FHS. Our classes are focused on a strong fourth quarter finish, end of the year mastery assessments, papers, and projects are the focus, creativity is in bloom with our artistic students showcasing their visual arts projects and the opening week of Anastasia (GRAB YOUR TICKETS). The weather has heated up and the fields and courts are filled with LIONS ON THE ROAR. This week we were WELL and had students lead WELLness activities during our lunches for some added fun and we closed out the events with a FUN FRIDAY. 

My message this week is filled with some snapshots of amazing student events:

 

Students City School board

This week our Student Panel elevated their voices at the City School Board meeting. We are grateful for their input, feedback and insights. THANK YOU.

 

Pyramid art show

The Fairfax Pyramid Art Show was so inspiring. It is amazing to see the creativity of our scholars from Kindergarten to 12th Grade. Many teachers, family, and friends attended the event to celebrate the success of our students. We had several students who sold amazing pieces of their work! 

 

Math Dept. awards

The Math Department Awards Ceremony and Math and Computer Science Honor Society Inductions were an amazing afternoon of celebrating academic excellence. 

 

Dance Academy students

Our Dance Academy students headed over to FCPS Central Office to share their creative movement and in-depth reflection. 

 

Auto Shop students

The FHS Auto Tech Advisory Board met to discuss innovation and partnership in the Automotive Industry. 

 

Lions taking the Lead breakfast

This morning, we honored 100 students who were recognized by their teacher for "TAKING THE LEAD" - these Lions are working hard in their classrooms to exemplify POG skills and content mastery. 

 

Thank you for your partnership, 

Principal's Signature

Included in this issue:

 

Student Spotlight

  • Alex Hill, Rotary Speech Contest Winner
  • All-Virginia Music students
  • DECA Students

Fairfax Lions Need to Know:

  • Calendar Reminders: Passover, Earth Day, Theravada
  • SEL Screener Results
  • Summer Arts Camp
  • No-Cost Mental Health Teletherapy for HS Students
  • FAFSA Info for Seniors
  • FHS Testing Calendar - Volunteers Needed! 

Fairfax Lions Nice to Know:

  • FCPS Family Summit
  • Postsecondary Education & Employment Options
  • FX Players Presents Anastasia: The Musical
  • Fairfax Academy Presents MCT Fest, April 27 @ Sherwood, 3:00pm
  • Connect - Contact - Reach Us

Fairfax HS PTSA

  • Join the PTSA Board!
  • ANG Silent Auction  
  • Graduation Yard Signs on Sale
  • PTSA Membership

Student Spotlight

Rotary Speech Contest

Alex Hill Rotary Award 2024

 

Senior Alex Hill brought home 1st place in the Area Rotary Speech contest last weekend! Alex won a $1,000 scholarship, and she will present her speech at the Rotary Youth Summit at the University of Mary Washington this  Saturday. Pictured L-R is English Teacher, Heather Davids, Alex Hill, and Fairfax City Rotary Youth Director, Julia Strickland. Congrats, Alex!


🎶 All-Virginia Music Students

All-Virginia Music Students

 

One hundred eighty-one FCPS students have been selected to perform at the 2024 All-Virginia Band, Chorus, and Orchestra event which will take place April 18-20. 

Students throughout Virginia went through a rigorous audition process to compete for positions within these ensembles. Participants will rehearse with nationally recognized conductors and collaborate with fellow musicians during the event, which is free and open to the public.

The Fairfax High School students selected for the groups in 2024 are (pictured L-R above):

Andy Richardson (chorus)

Elias Falke (chorus)

Chris Sung (orchestra)

Ainsley Buice (chorus)

Leo Johnson (band) 

The concerts will be held in the Richmond Convention Center on Saturday, April 20, beginning at 1 p.m. and ending at 4:30 p.m. More information about the event is available online.

Congratulations to our students, we are so PROUD!!!


DECA Financial Literacy Project

DECA Giving Program

 

It was an exciting this week at Fairfax High School as 3 DECA members, Sami Moudarres, Austin Mitchell, and Marco Vicencio, presented their Financial Literacy Project to the school's administrative leadership team and MainStreet Bank.

These students created a relationship in the community with Eagle View Elementary and developed a Market Day for students in grades 4-6 to prepare a business plan that focused on financial understanding in a hands-on environment.

MainStreet Bank recognized the students’ financial literacy contribution in the community with a $7,500 check.

This was such an awesome experience to see the students exhibit authentic learning and be recognized by a local bank for their DECA Financial Literacy Project as they head to the DECA International Career Development Conference.

So many smiles! Congrats, Lions!!!!


Fairfax Lions Need to Know:


Calendar Reminders: Passover, Earth Day, Theravada

Passover graphic

 

Passover and Half-O Days

Many Jewish communities in the United States celebrate Passover, a recognition of the deliverance of Jewish people from slavery in Egypt. Passover is also known as Pesah, Pesach, or the Feast of Unleavened Bread. Many Jewish families in the United States eat a ceremonial meal known as the Seder, which involves telling the story of the exodus from Egypt as well as eating various symbolic foods, such as meat of the paschal lamb and bitter herbs, recalling the harsh life of slavery. Learn more about Passover in NatGeo Kids

Monday, April 22, and Tuesday, April 23, are designated half-O days in recognition of the first two days of Passover. Half-O days are full school days, but important events will not be held after school on those days.

 

🌏 Earth Week Resources for Schools

Earth Day

 

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.

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. 

 

Theravada

 

Theravada New Year (O Day)

In countries where Theravada Buddhism is the most dominant religion, New Year is celebrated for three days from the first full moon in April. Theravada means “the teachings of the elders.” Celebrations begin with people attending the local temple in the morning for chanting and meditation. In the afternoon they have a water festival in which they meet the Buddha image and pay respect to the elderly by watering their hands together. Building sandcastles is also one of the most popular activities during this day of celebration. Wednesday, April 24, is designated as an O day for Theravada New Year. The school calendar recognizes many religious and cultural observances (O days) during the school year. There is school on these days, however tests, quizzes, field trips, graduation, homecoming, or FCPS-scheduled athletic events will not be held on these observance days.

See the complete school year calendar.


SEL Screener Results

FCPS students in grades 3-12 took the Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener during March, providing updated information on skills such as achieving goals, understanding and managing emotions, establishing and maintaining relationships with adults and peers, and making responsible decisions. The SEL Screener also helps students evaluate their school community’s efforts to make them feel valued, included, and supported. 

In late April, individual student SEL Screener results will be available for families in the Documents section of SIS ParentVUE. For families who do not have an active ParentVUE account, results will be sent via postal mail. 

Get more information about the screener on the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage. For support in understanding your individual student’s results or ideas on how to support them at home, please review the Family Guide or contact your student’s counselor


☀️🎨🎶 Summer Arts Camp

IFTA collage

 

Don’t miss out on this summer’s most exciting arts enrichment program! The Institute for the Arts camp is for students currently in grade 6-11. Students design their own schedules and select from art, music, theater, and dance classes. Learn more on the IFTA webpage. Email IFTA@fcps.edu with any questions. 


💻 No-Cost Mental Health Teletherapy for All High School Students

Teen Mental Health

 

Is your high schooler experiencing anxiety, behavior changes, or challenges with peer and family relationships? If so, parents/caregivers can refer their children for weekly therapy with a licensed therapist through Hazel Health.

Visit the Teletherapy webpage for information on how to opt your child into this service. 


📋FAFSA

How to Get Help Filling Out the FAFSA

According to recent news reports, as many as 30% fewer graduating seniors have completed and submitted a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Many schools rely upon this form to grant students financial aid award letters.

Families who have questions or persistent issues filling out the FAFSA might consider scheduling a free appointment with our partners at College Access Fairfax. Email appointments@CollegeAccessFairfax.org. All FAFSA help provided by our school or College Access Fairfax is free. 


FHS Testing Calendar - Volunteers Needed! 

Spring exam schedule

 

Students will be taking SOL tests and digital AP exams on their FCPS-issued Chromebooks. To minimize issues on exam day:

  • It is critical that ALL students bring their Chromebooks FULLY CHARGED.
  • Each student should also have their own power cord as the school does not have extras to lend. 
  • Students will receive their testing schedule a week before their exam.
  • PLEASE make sure students are diligent about checking their SCHOOL email (@fcpsschools.net account). 

Thank you for your help in ensuring your student is prepared to do their best on their exams!

Visit our school website to view the full testing calendar. Click here to download a PDF version: 2024 Spring Exam Schedule.pdf

Proctor Volunteers

The teachers really appreciate it because it allows them to keep their planning period!

Please Sign Up Here: 

AP Testing Proctor Signup


Fairfax Lions Nice to Know: 


FCPS Family Summit

Family Summit

 

The FCPS Family Summit will take place on Saturday, April 20, 8:30am - 1:00pm, at Marshall High School. The conference will cover topics that are helpful for all families such as raising resilient, independent children; forming meaningful connections with children; addressing big emotions; and the dangers of opioids and fentanyl. Participants may also join online sessions, which will provide supports for students with disabilities and their families.

Visit the Family Summit webpage to learn about the guest speakers and to register for the event. The theme — Safe, Supported, and Included — aligns with Goal 2 of FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan


🎓 Postsecondary Education and Employment Options

FCPS’ Career and Transition Services will host Flash Forward, to provide students with disabilities seeking a standard or advanced diploma and their families an introduction to options available after high school. 

Flash Forward will be held Thursday, April 25, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Annandale High School, in the cafeteria. Register online. Representatives from adult education, employment, and community programs (college, military, apprenticeship, trade school, gap year, and employment) will be on site to share information about their services. 


FX Players presents Anastasia: The Musical

Anastasia flyer

 

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.


Fairfax Academy Presents: MCT Fest, April 27

MCT Fest 2024

 

The Music and Computer Technology program at Fairfax Academy is putting on its 19th MCT fest at the Sherwood Community Center. The show exhibits only original music from students in the MCT program and participating performers. This is the pinnacle event for the year and is a moment where friends,  family, local businesses, and the community can acknowledge the talent at Fairfax Academy. The MCT I & 2 Students develop, perform, manage, and execute the show. This includes creating the schedule, setting up the gear, running live sound, MCing the event, coordinating tickets, special guests, marketing, and promotions.

You can purchase tickets here: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/93295183/mct-fest-fairfax-fairfax-high-school-athletics.

We’re looking forward to seeing you on April 27th @ 3pm! Thank you for your support!


stay in touch

throughout the year:


Fairfax HS PTSA


Table of Contents:

  • Join the PTSA Board!
  • ANG Silent Auction
  • Graduation Yard Signs on Sale
  • PTSA Membership

Join the PTSA Board

The Fairfax High School PTSA is looking for parents to serve on the Board during the 2024-2025 school year. Our goal is to have the Board reflect our school community and classrooms. Involvement is a big part of your students’ success and what better way than to be at the center! You will be surrounded by community members who are engage in all aspects of Fairfax High School.

Meetings are currently on the 3rd Tuesday of each month. Everyone is welcome, no previous experience necessary. If interested please contact current board member. https://www.fairfaxptsa.org/board


All Night Grad Update ~ Silent Auction and Graduate Yard Sign Sales Online!

Online Silent Auction

One Week Left for Silent Auction Bidding and 50/50 Raffle!

The All Night Grad Committee’s Annual Online Silent Auction is up and running.  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 2 gallons of Italian Ice, Graduation announcements/invitations by Klain designs and many more items.  New items have been added!

You can also buy 50/50 Raffle tickets and tickets for our Graduation VIP Seating and Parking raffle. 

To view the auction items and submit your bids, and buy your raffle tickets, please go https://app.galabid.com/fhsang2024/items


Graduation Yard Signs Now on Sale!

Grad Sign

 

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.

 

All Night Grad Party Tickets on Sale!

Tickets for the All Night Graduation Party are on sale now.  The price for a ticket is $55. Tickets may be purchased online through the PTSA.

Buy tickets here:  https://fairfaxhs.memberhub.com/store/items/995293   

 

Or scan the QR code here:

 

Free and reduced ticket order forms are available to eligible students through the FHS front office. 

ANG QR code 2024

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! 

 

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

 

Donate to Support the All Night Grad Party

Monetary donations to the All Night Graduation Party are always welcome.  If you, or your friends and family, would like to make a donation to the All Night Graduation Party, you can donate online at the PTSA’s giving-site: https://fairfaxhs.memberhub.com/store/items/931830

If you have any questions about the All Night Grad Party, or would like to talk about how you can help, please email us at ANG@fairfaxptsa.org     

We look forward to all parents’ support for the All Night Grad Party.  Together, we will make this a night for our seniors to remember!


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.

PTSA Membership QR Code
  • Parent/Adult: $20
  • Teacher/Staff: $12
  • FHS Student: $8

https://fairfaxhs.memberhub.com/store?limit=21&live=true


FCPS Cares

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.