Important Upcoming Dates
Message from Dr. Khoshaba
Greetings, SoCo Nation!
I hope you're fall-ing in love with the cooler temps as they drop outside—because sweater weather is here to stay for a while. This is my favorite time of year, as some of my fondest memories are walking to school and smelling the wood burning from fireplaces. Speaking of memories, here are some great ones from this past week, along with some upcoming events to plan for.
Student and Staff Belonging
Top Honors
One of the most dedicated teams at South County is our Custodians. Recently, they received county-wide recognition for their outstanding hard work over the summer. During July and August, we hosted the Instructional Services team and over 900 teachers for six weeks, placing a tremendous amount of additional work on their shoulders. This recognition is truly well-deserved! While we have nearly 20 Custodians on staff, we were able to celebrate this achievement with the morning crew at a ceremony this week. Great job, Stallions!
Together We Thrive!
I had another Walk and Talk session this week. Students Camille and Cortez walked the halls with me as they shared their perspectives on aspects of school that are going well and areas we can improve. The greatest strength they identified was the quality of instruction from our staff. Cortez identified Ms. McClinton as being an especially noteworthy teacher, highlighting how she regularly embodies the core value of Curiosity each day. Meanwhile, Camille selected Ms. Ruddy because she embodies Trust every day. I couldn’t agree more with these students’ opinions.
High Quality Instruction
This week, I had the pleasure of observing three truly exceptional classes that showcased both the talent of our teachers and the engagement of our students. In Ms. Wakim’s French 2 class, the students were absolutely enchanté as they fluently navigated French dialogue, making language learning look effortless and magnifique! Over in Ms. Engels’ AP Chemistry class, it was clear that she had a positive reaction from her students, as they dove into complex experiments with curiosity and precision—chemical connections at their finest. And finally, Ms. Swift’s Orchestra was in perfect harmony, where every note played by her students was swiftly executed, creating a symphony of success. Each of these classes was a joy to witness, and our students are thriving under such inspiring instruction.
School Culture
Our school culture section of the newsletter is always packed with so many wonderful aspects of our SoCo DNA. This week is no different!
Orchestrating Success!
A special shout-out to two students who earned the Senior Regional Orchestra distinction. Congratulations to Junhee Sin and Sarah Tracy, as they have now qualified to audition for All-State Orchestra. Bravo, students!
Celebrating Heritage
I’d also like to give special recognition to all teachers who participated in our Hispanic Month Door Decorating Contest. We had three categories of winners. Each of them brought creativity and culture to life through your fantastic designs.
For Most Creative, Ms. Hansen’s students crafted a masterpiece of imagination, combining bold designs and innovative elements to create a truly one-of-a-kind display.
Our Fan Favorite award went to Ms. Hill’s class, whose vibrant visuals and captivating colors won the judge’s hearts with flair and festivity.
And lastly, congratulations to Ms. Kimble’s class for winning Best Use of Theme. Their door showcased thoughtful threads of history and heritage, beautifully weaving together elements that celebrated the spirit of Hispanic culture.
On the Right Track!
A special thank you is extended to our PTSO. They heard of a need in our school and responded. We had four unserviceable treadmills in our gym for some time, so our plan has been to remove and replace them with operating machines. Our PTSO came to the rescue, and for the first time in several years, our students can walk, jog, and run on new equipment! Thank you for your continued support in all things SoCo, PTSO!
College Bound!
SCHS’s College Partnership Program students participated in the annual Alcanza College Fair at George Mason University on Wednesday, October 17th. This event helped 42 SCHS students develop their post-secondary education plans. Over 150 colleges/universities and the U.S. Armed Services were in attendance. I know each of our students enjoyed this experience.
A Field Day to Remember: Senior Night Victory!
Congratulations to our amazing Field Hockey team on a fantastic Senior Night, where they truly showed their dedication and teamwork by defeating Robinson 3 to 1! It was a night filled with pride and celebration as we honored our seniors for their hard work and commitment throughout the season. Here’s to many more victories on and off the field!
Staff Spotlight
This week’s Staff Spotlight shines brightly on Erin Ruddy, our dedicated Yoga teacher who has significantly grown the program from just 2 sections three years ago to an impressive 6 full sections today, complete with a waiting list of eager students! With 7 years of teaching experience, including 4 wonderful years here at South County High, Erin has cultivated a love for yoga among her students, fostering both physical and mental well-being. Originally from New Jersey, she also enjoys hitting the slopes with her husband during the winter months, combining her passion for fitness with her love of adventure. Thank you, Erin, for your incredible contributions to our school community and for inspiring so many students to embrace the benefits of yoga!
Choice Day Highlights
Our student body is a vibrant tapestry of diverse interests. I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our Culture Champions team— led by Ms. Hill, Mr. Kingston, and Mrs. Tolan—for weaving together all the intricate details of our events.
By popular demand, we kicked off our first of four Choice Day activities during Advisory time, featuring exciting options like Zumba, Line Dancing, and much more! This initiative truly allows our students to express themselves and explore new passions.
Club Corner
In only its second year, our Get2Green (G2G) Club is the environmental stewardship program for FCPS. It offers guidance and resources for classes, implementing hands-on environmental action in our school and community. G2G engages in student-driven activities such as reducing waste, conserving energy, and tending edible gardens. If you have any questions or suggestions, please send them to G2G sponsors Ms. Morrison (jemorrison@fcps.edu) and Mr. Madoo (lbmadoo@fcps.edu).
Spotlight: Days of Joy
I often meet with students from various organizations to help them work through projects or ideas. This week I welcomed the opportunity to work with two of our DECA students, Kyla and Meena. They are designing our outdoor Movie Night, which is coming soon in either November or December. I was most impressed with their abilities to plan, organize, and (soon) execute their ideas to enhance our school spirit and culture. Great job, DECA!
As we embrace the beauty of the new Fall weather, I wish everyone a wonderful weekend filled with fresh air and cozy moments. Remember to Stand Strong in all that you do and enjoy the vibrant colors and crisp temperatures. Happy Fall!
Warm Wishes,
Kambar
#StandStrong
Health Information and Emergency Care Forms
The Health Information Form (HIF) (SS/SE-71) and the Emergency Care Information form (SS/SE-3) provide valuable information regarding student health conditions. These forms are critical in the early identification of students who may need healthcare support in the educational environment. Along with the development of Healthcare Plans (HCP) and Action Plans, the Public Health Nurses (PHNs) utilize the information contained in the HIF to develop teaching strategies for FCPS staff in order to meet the requirements of Regulation 2104 Health Services-School Health-Related Needs.
These forms are required for all students. Enrolling parents/guardians who have a SIS ParentVUE account may submit them electronically by using the Online Verification/Update packet.
For families without SIS ParentVue accounts, forms can be located in the Back to School packets and on the General Registration Forms page.
ATTENTION CLASS OF 2025
Victor O’Neill Studios, our school’s official photographer, are excited to see you on the following date(s) for your senior portraits at our school:
Final Session: Monday November 4, and Tuesday November 5, 2024
Don’t miss this final opportunity to be photographed for the yearbook! The required attire for the school’s yearbook pose are traditional Tuxedos and Drapes; provided by them!
In addition to the free yearbook session, they also offer sessions that include casual/personality portraits and Cap and Gown portraits.
Please follow the link below to choose your session type and appointment time: www.vosphoto.com/southcounty
As a friendly reminder, appointments are needed for Senior Portraits.
If you have any questions, please email them at: seniors@vosphoto.com
Please kindly include your Senior’s First and Last Name and “South County Class of 2025” when emailing, for faster assistance.
Thank you!
Your Senior Portraits Team
Homecoming is fast approaching. Homecoming Week will be full of fun events and SCHS Leadership is looking for help from our amazing community! Leadership has an amazon wish list (items will be sent to SCHS) to help with some of the decorations for the dance as well as a sign-up genius to help with other Homecoming events. Any help would be greatly appreciated!
Amazon Wishlist: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/5R6D2CV6MINP?ref_=wl_share
Sign-Up Genius: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C094CA9AA2FA0FD0-52027125-homecoming
Oct 21-25: Spirit Week
Oct 24: Parade @4pm & Power Puff Games (6:30 & 7:30)
Oct 25: Football Game
Oct 26: Homecoming Dance 8-11pm
The South County Cross Country team is excited to announce our shoe drive fundraiser! We're collecting gently used shoes to support micro-businesses in developing countries and raise funds for our team.
Every pair of shoes makes a difference! Our goal is to collect 2,500 pairs. If each student donates just one pair, we can easily surpass our goal.
Please join us in making a positive impact on our community and the world!
Thank you for your support!
South County Cross Country Team
Parents of Current 10th graders,
South County will be hosting 4 sessions of PSTD - Partners for Safe Teen Driving this school year. If your student is currently enrolled in HPE 10 it is mandatory that they attend ONE of the sessions with a parent/guardian. The session dates are as follows: Jan 9, 2025, Feb. 11, 2025 and April 7, 2025. The presentations are held in the auditorium and begin promptly at 7:00 p.m. Doors open at 6:45 and lock at 7:00 p.m. – no late arrivals permitted.
Presentations last approximately 90 minutes.
Any questions please reach out to Maureen Saale- mgsaale@fcps.edu
AWARENESS
Disability History and Awareness Month
In Virginia during October, Disability History and Awareness activities provide an opportunity to create greater public awareness for individuals with disabilities, with the goal of full inclusion in our community.
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National Bullying Prevention Month
October is National Bullying Prevention Month. To help develop a common understanding of Bullying, below is the FCPS definition.
Bullying in Students Rights and Responsibilities is defined as: “Any aggressive and unwanted behavior that is intended to harm, intimidate, or humiliate the victim; involves a real or perceived power imbalance between the aggressor or aggressors and victim; and is repeated over time or causes severe emotional trauma. “Bullying” includes cyberbullying. “Bullying” does not include ordinary teasing, horseplay, argument, or peer conflict.”
For more information on how FCPS handles a bullying situation please visit the FCPS Bullying Prevention and Intervention webpage. Our goal is to ensure all students feel safe and welcome at school. If you have questions and/or concerns about something that is going on at school, please contact the front office so that they can support you and most importantly your student.
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PTSO
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 (and places their first order), 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.
ALL ANGP LINKS
Lorton Holiday Extravaganza & Craft Show Publicity
It’s time to spread the word…The South County PTSO is looking for Student and Parent Volunteers to distribute flyers promoting the 19th Annual Lorton Holiday Extravaganza & Craft Show. Please take a moment to check out our Sign-up Genius and see if you can spare an hour or two! All students will receive volunteer credits.
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A0949ACAF2BAAFD0-51298810-2024
Follow us on Facebook, Twitter @LortonSCHSCraft or @SCHSCraftShow and Instagram!
We are excited to announce that parents are now able to enter ONLY full day absences through ParentVue.
Please be sure to specify in the notes the reason for the absence. If you have to report a late arrival, early release or an absence longer than 2 days, please call or email the attendance office at 703-446-1625 or southcountyhigh.attendance@fcps.edu. Thank you!
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
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