WPHS News You Chose 4/26/24

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

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


 

Table of Contents:

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

Important Dates

  • April 26 – May 4: Kinky Boots (Spring Musical)
  • April 28: Band Car Wash, starts at 1:00 p.m., Aldersgate Church
  • April 29: Pre-Orders begin for Class of 2024 Tulip Sale
  • May 5: Seniors interested in speaking at graduation – application deadline
  • May 6:  Class of 2024 Tulip sale (pre-order online starting April 29th)
  • May 14: PTSA Meeting, 6:30 – 8:00, Library
  • May 23: Class of 2024 - Five Guys Restaurant Night, 4:00-8:00 p.m.
  • 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,

 

First and foremost, I want to say THANKS to all your students.  When we had the threat this week, our students were fantastic.  They cooperated and took it very seriously.  We were outside for a long time, but your students were gracious and super well-behaved.  I am so very proud to be their principal!

 

Staff Appreciation Week is just around the corner.  It is May 6-10.    I am honored to celebrate all of our amazing faculty and staff that help keep our school running each day. 

 

From the Student Government Association:  Below is a Google Form where students, parents, and fellow staff can write anonymous compliments and words of appreciation for any social studies teacher.  Please feel free to write something nice to a favorite social studies teacher.  

https://forms.gle/qYTJYJq87rx6tvQAA

In addition, I would like to share a couple FCPS Cares submissions to brag about some of our faculty and staff. 

FCPS CARES submissions:

Congrats Nathan Bush:  Nathan goes above and beyond in his kindness and flexibility in helping others. He’s very supportive of coworkers and students and always does what he can to help those around him. His great rapport with everyone at West Potomac is obvious!

 

Congrats Elba Washington and Pat Jackson:  I would like to nominate both Mrs. Elba Washington, the cafeteria manager, and Mrs. Pat Jackson, a member of the Custodial Team, for the FCPS Cares award. West Potomac is a recipient of the Super Snack program, and despite the direct involvement of three staff members in distributing snacks, two individuals behind the scenes play crucial roles in supporting the program. Mrs. Pat Jackson, a member of the custodial staff, ensures the smooth operation of snack distribution by taking snacks out of the freezer and placing them by the door, thereby facilitating timely delivery. Additionally, Mrs. Elba Williams, the cafeteria manager, significantly contributes to the program's success through her support. She provides extra boxes for the team on days when athletic teams forget to bring them and assists with paperwork as needed. These individuals are the true unsung heroes, and their dedication to the Super Snack program at West Potomac deserves recognition through the FCPS Cares award.

 

This information is posted on the FCPS CARES webpage, accessible at https://www.fcps.edu/news/fcps-cares-april-2024.

 

Below are some important dates from our Student Activities Office.  I hope you all have a wonderful weekend.

 

Jessica Statz, Principal

 

Important Dates:

Friday Message Community

May 11th:

West Potomac Market Place, 10am-4pm.  Main Gym

 

May 30th:

Next Level Signing Ceremony-3:30pm. Main Gym

 

June 4th

Spring Sports Awards Ceremony-6:30pm. Auditorium

 

ffffff

 

End of Year Exam/Testing Calendar and Laptop Collection

  • On our website you can now find our end of year testing to include testing dates, early dismissals and alternate bell schedules. This week your child should have received an email with details on any SOL Tests they may be scheduled for this Spring. If they did not or have questions, please have them speak with their teacher. 
  • We have also published our laptop collection dates:
    • 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
    • Senior Laptop Collection (Room 311) - May 20-24
    • Underclass Laptop Collection (Room 311) - June 6-7
    • Underclass Laptop Collection (Cafeteria) - June 10-11
 

 


SCHOOL NEWS

fffff

Dear Theatre Arts Patrons,
Beyond the Page Theatre Company is thrilled to announce our spring musical
production of Kinky Boots, in collaboration with FCPS Pride! This 2013 Tony Award winning musical celebrates the beauty of accepting others for who they are despite our differences. And remember, “You really CAN change the world when you change your mind!”

Location:
Auditorium Theatre - West Potomac High School (Door 5)

Dates/Times:
Thursday, April 25 (7pm)
Friday, April 26 (7pm)
Saturday, April 27 (1pm) and (7pm)
Thursday, May 2 (7pm)
Friday, May 3 (7pm)
Saturday, May 4 (1pm) and (7pm)

Tickets:  $10 students / $15 adults
(Available at westpotomactheatre.org)

This musical contains strong language and mature content.

 

Talkback with FCPS Pride

Join us for a discussion with FCPS Pride, where we'll explore the significance of producing LGBTQ+ plays/musicals, delve into drag history, and explore ways to support the LGBTQ+ community.

  • Location: Auditorium Theatre - West Potomac High School (Door 5)
  • Date/Time: Saturday, April 27 (AFTER our 1pm show!)
  • Duration: 30 minutes

Drag Brunch

Join us for delicious brunch and witty entertainment from some of DC’s most

fabulous performers: Dixie Crystal, Pirouette, and Orpheus Rose.

  • Location: Kogelman Theatre - West Potomac High School (Door 5)
  • Date/Time: Saturday, May 4 at 12pm (BEFORE our 1pm show!)
  • Duration: 1 hour
  • Tickets: (Available at the door.)

○ $15 for 1 person

○ $25 for 2 people

○ $35 for 3 people

fff

 

RSVP by Thursday, May 2nd!

 

Email the # of tickets you would like to purchase to wptheatreboosters@gmail.com

using “DRAG BRUNCH” as the subject. You can also pay in advance at

https://form.jotform.com/212997681677173, or at the door with cash or check.

Our drag brunch will be a family friendly event, intended to expand upon our show’s message of accepting people for who they are despite our differences. By creating an environment that is inclusive and supportive students can learn different forms of artistic expression, while learning the importance of embracing one’s true identity.

Warm regards,

Beyond the Page Theatre Company

 

AP Test Proctors/Monitors Volunteers Needed!

  • We need your help!  With AP tests around the corner, it’s 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).

 

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, and VP Student Recognition (well loved Moe’s celebration for All A’s, A/B Honor Roll). We are also seeking Chair(s) for Teacher Appreciation Events.  As the Academic Booster Club, the PTSA supports Teacher/Faculty grants, celebrates students through teacher grants, 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

 

Please support this year’s Teachers Appreciation Luncheon on May 8th and help us recognize our Hard Working, Amazing WPHS Educators and Faculty.  

West Potomac High School: WP/Teachers/Faculty Appreciation Luncheon (signupgenius.com)


fffff

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

Cyber Fortress 2045 Capture the Flag:

Interested in the Cyber industry?  The Cyber Fortress 2045 Capture the Flag event will be on Saturday, May 4, 2025 at the Fairfax Armory in Fairfax, VA.  Presented by the Virginia Army National Guard, this free event is designed to help high school & college students learn about the cyber industry and discover career opportunities.  Lunch will be provided & prizes are available!  See the flyer to register & for additional details. 

Union Jobs & Career Fair

This is a great opportunity for students to discover the path to a union career! This one-day event will be held at the Dulles Expo Center in Chantilly, Virginia on Saturday, May 4, 2024 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.  Admission is free. For more information, visit the event webpage at: https://dullesexpo.com/event/union-jobs-career-fair/ 

JumpStart2NOVA:

JumpStart2NOVA is available this summer for qualified seniors graduating in June and considering Northern Virginia Community College this fall. Students may select one 3- or 4-credit approved course plus SDV 100: College Success Skills, at no tuition!  The application for JumpStart2NOVA closes at 5pm on Friday, May 10, 2024.

To learn more about JumpStart2NOVA, including course offerings, minimum qualifying scores, and details on how to apply, visit: https://www.nvcc.edu/admissions/dual-enrollment/jumpstart.html

 

Please Note: This opportunity is for current 12th grade students only. Students in grades 9-11are not permitted to participate in this specific program

 

SCHOOL FUNDRAISERS 

WestPo Band Car Wash – This Sunday!

If your car is a lovely pollen shade of green, come to the West Potomac Band's Car Wash this Sunday starting at 1pm, at Aldersgate Church, 1301 Collingwood Road, Alexandria. 

Students will be ready with suds and towels to return your car to return it to its original color. Donations of any amount are welcome!

ffffffff

 

CLASS OF 2024 NEWS

Important Dates:

May 23rd: Restaurant Night at Five Guys 4:00-8:00 pm

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

ffffff

 

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, for the soon-to-be-graduate, 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

fffff

 

The countdown is on! We are officially in the last 6 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 the upcoming Bash. We still have several volunteer opportunities for help with fundraising & helping plan the Bash, as well as helping out on the day of the Bash. We want this to be the BEST event 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 

 

Seniors: Interested in speaking at graduation? If so, please submit your speech to the google form (using your fcpsschools.net account) NO LATER THAN MAY 5TH . https://forms.gle/bSwVkctqQfCjUJof7

 

Class of 2024 - 3rd annual Tulip sale is happening the week of May 6th. Cost is $10 for a tulip plant for Mother's Day. Tulip pick up will happen on May 9 and 10th during school hours. Pre order your tulips starting on April 29 via my school bucks (3rd Annual Tulip sale) or via cash in Room 718 or 605. Contact Ms. Simpson at jsimpson1@fcps.edu  or Ms. Hackshaw at chackshaw@fcps.edu  to order ! 

 

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 

 

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.