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UPCOMING EVENTS
NOVEMBER
11/15-11/16 Spartan Theatre Presents: PUFFS
11/27-11/29: Thanksgiving Break (No School)
DECEMBER
12/17: WSHS Immunization Clinic (During school hours, parent consent needed)
12/23-1/3: Winter Break (No School)
NEWS AND NOTES
💉NEW IMMUNIZATION CLINIC DATES
In collaboration with Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD), FCPS will host immunization clinics for all FCPS students on November 21 and 22 at its Willow Oaks Administrative Center. All school-required immunizations will be available free of charge.
- Parents/Guardians must accompany students under the age of 18 and provide consent for your student to receive immunizations. Students ages 18 years and older may provide their own consent.
- Although appointments are not needed, parents are asked to complete the sign up form, located on the Immunization Resources webpage, to choose a preferred time slot. Staff may also assist parents/guardians to complete the form.
- Parents/Guardians should bring an insurance card (if applicable). Insurance is not required to participate.
- Language interpreters will be present.
Clinic location: 8270 Willow Oaks Corporate Drive, Fairfax, VA 22031
Dates and Times:
Thursday, November 21, 2024 1 - 7 p.m.
Friday, November 22, 2024 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.
**Rising 12th graders who are need of the Meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY) and are 16 can receive it here or at the WSHS Clinic on December 17th**
West Springfield Food Pantry Food Drive
West Springfield High School Food Pantry is looking for non-perishable donations for:
Cereal
Boxed, non-refrigerated milk
Peanut Butter
Jelly
Spaghetti Sauce
Pasta
Canned Pumpkin Pie, evaporated milk and pie crust
Stuffing
Canned Green beans
Granola bars
Crackers
Rice
Canned beans
Canned Tuna Fish
Deodorant
Shampoo
Conditioner
Toothpaste
Toilet Paper
Laundry Detergent
Paper towels
Drop off donations during school days / office hours inside the front door #1 at WSHS. There is a drop off inside the double doors.
Activate a SIS ParentVue Account TODAY
IMPORTANT:
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Email addresses can only be used ONCE to activate an account. In order to activate a second account, a DIFFERENT email address must be used.
- In order to fill out the online packets using ParentVUE, the enrolling parent must activate the account with the email they have on file with the school.
You can learn how to activate your account by going to this video or follow these steps:
- Contact the office during regular school hours and request an activation letter for SIS ParentVUE or use this SIS Parent Assistance Form found on the WSHS Homepage
- The school will provide a letter with an activation key and detailed instructions that expires at 12:00 a.m. (midnight) on the date listed in the letter.
- Once you receive the activation key, go to https://sisparent.fcps.edu and click on More Options in the bottom right corner.
- Click on Activate Account
- Review the SIS Parent Account Privacy Policy and select I Agree
- Enter your First Name, Last Name, and Activation Key as they appear on the letter.
- Enter your email address (which will become your username) and a password that meets the minimum requirements.
- You will then receive an email from noreply@fcps.edu to complete the activation. Click the link in the email before it expires.
- You will receive your confirmation of activation in a second email.
- CONGRATS, you now have a SIS ParentVUE account!
For more information, help, or to access translations please go to this site.
The Federal Impact Aid Survey is now available to complete online!
The Federal Impact Aid program provides money to districts that enroll federally connected students. Help FCPS secure funding from the Impact Aid Program by helping us identify:
- Military families.
- Federally connected families.
- Families living on a military base.
Please complete one form for each child in your household. Remember that only the enrolling parent can fill out the Impact Aid Survey form.
For families without access to ParentVUE, a paper copy of the form will be sent home with your student starting November 12. Your information will be kept strictly confidential.
Your support will ensure that we receive the resources for which we are eligible.
Step 1: CLICK HERE or use the QR Code to be taken to SIS ParentVUE.
If you don’t have a SIS ParentVUE account, contact your child’s school for an activation letter.
2. After you’ve logged into your ParentVue Account, look for the ‘Online Packets’ link at the top of the page. Click ‘Online Packets’.
3. Next, click the ‘Federal Impact Aid Survey’ button on the bottom of the page:
If you have multiple children in Fairfax County Public Schools, please make sure to fill out a form for each of your children. You will know you have completed all of the forms when you see a green check next to each of their names on the final screen
**Paper copies for anyone who has not completed an Impact Aid form yet should have gone home with your student on 11/13. Please return as soon as possible to help us meet the deadline of 11/19.
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STUDENT SERVICES
Academic Advising Timeline 2025-2026
Mark your calendars with the following dates to assist with choosing courses for next school year.
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Curriculum Night | January 9, 2025 | 6:30-8:00 pm in the Cafeteria for students and families
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Future Spartan Orientation | January 13, 2025 | Rising 9th graders will visit West Springfield HS
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Academic Days of Emphasis | January 16-22, 2025 | Student in Grades 9, 10, and 11, will meet with their current teachers to discuss their feedback.
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Pre-Advising Learning Seminar | Pre-Advising Lesson shared with Grades 9, 10, and 11 during LS to go over Academic Advising Process.
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Curriculum Fair | Opportunity for students to visit different classes and get information on specific classes in which they may be interested.
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Academic Advising Rising Juniors | February 3-7, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor.
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Academic Advising Rising Seniors | February 10-14, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor.
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Academic Advising Rising Sophomores | February 17-24, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor.
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Last Day to Make Class Schedule Requests for the 2025-2026 School Year | March 31, 2025
STUDENT CORNER
Career Readiness Graduation Medal
Dear Seniors and Senior Parents,
We are excited to share that in alignment with the VDOE accreditation standards, West Springfield High School will be recognizing students with a graduation medal, to be worn at commencement, for achievement in the areas of education, employment, and career readiness.
Completion of the ASVAB exam, with a minimum qualifying score, is the criteria for awarding the career readiness graduation medal. We would like to encourage all students to participate in our administration of this assessment.
This letter is to provide an additional reminder about the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB), a valuable career exploration tool that your student will have the opportunity to take at West Springfield High School on December 6, 2024.
The ASVAB is a multiple-choice test administered by the Department of Defense that helps students identify their strengths and interests, and explore potential career paths. It's important to emphasize that taking the ASVAB does not obligate your student to military service in any way. Any results received will only be shared with the student.
Here's why we encourage your student to participate:
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Discover their strengths: The ASVAB assesses skills in areas like verbal, math, science and technical reasoning, providing valuable self-knowledge about their aptitudes.
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Explore career options: Results can be linked to a wide range of civilian and military careers, helping students connect their skills to potential jobs.
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Identify areas for improvement: The ASVAB can pinpoint areas where your student might benefit from additional support or coursework, aiding in their academic development.
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Free and valuable resource: This assessment is offered at no cost to you and provides personalized information that can be used for career planning and decision-making.
We believe the ASVAB is a valuable tool for all students, regardless of their post-secondary plans. It provides personalized insights that can help them make informed decisions about their future.
Our next administration of the ASVAB here at West Springfield is December 6th. Details and sign up HERE. If you have any questions or would like to discuss this further, please don't hesitate to contact our College and Career Specialist, Jeff Toomer, at jktoomer@fcps.edu, or phone (703) 913-3985.
WSHS Low Incidence Small Business
DID YOU KNOW… Our special education students in the Low Incidence program started a small business?! We make Crayon Letters, Lanyards, Wooden Signs and Cups!
Original Creations is a small business that offers meaningful work experiences to students with intellectual and developmental disabilities at West Springfield High School. It provides opportunities for them to develop a wide range of functional skills that are essential for independence. It celebrates their willingness to learn, as well as the hard work and love they put into each product.
Check it out and share with family/friends! https://sites.google.com/view/wshsoriginalcreations/home
📸REMINDER ! Underclass Makeup and Retake Picture Day is coming to West Springfield High School
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We look forward to Underclass retake and makeup photo day at your school on Friday, November 8, 2024 !
We would like to be sure we photograph any student who would like a retake, while we prioritize new students and students who were not able to make the original session . We have included guidelines for a successful retake day below so that we can work together to photograph all underclass students who both need and would like a retake picture.
www.vosphoto.com/retakes
Students who have not previously ordered can still place a preorder for retake day using the link below:
https://vando.imagequix.com/g1001133216#login
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🚗Learner's Permit Test at WSHS
When: 3:10pm- specific dates below
Where: Room 2228
Cost: $25
2024-25 Dates: 1st Semester shown below
- November 21
- December 5
- January 9
Who can take the test: Students MUST be 15 years and 6 months old by the day of the test
- This test is for Fairfax County Public School students ONLY (FCPS ID is required).
- If you have had 2 unsuccessful attempts at passing this test, then you are required to test at the DMV for your 3rd attempt.
Please read the instructions below carefully…
How to Register:
- Visit FCPS ACE and sign up for a specific date- fcps.edu
- Once registered on the FCPS ACE site, you must also register with the DMV. A link is provided during the ACE registration and in your confirmation email. Failure to register with the DMV will result in not being able to test since they issue the secure testing codes to FCPS proctors.
The following are required to the take the test- bring them with you on your test day:
- A picture ID to verify identity. If the student does not have a picture ID, take a picture, write the student's full legal name under the picture, and have a teacher sign to verify the student's identity. You may also show your photo from SIS.
- Earbuds/headphones to listen to directions and test audio (optional).
NEED TO PREPARE FOR THE LEARNERS PERMIT TEST? SIGN UP FOR ONE OF THE PREP COURSES!
These 90-minute classes are offered on Zoom and help to prepare students for the permit test. Sign up on aceclasses.fcps.edu. Dates for 1st Semester are 9/25, 10/21, 11/18, 12/4, 1/8.
Send any questions to Casey Grubbs (clgrubbs@fcps.edu)
PTSA
PTSA Meeting: 7:30pm Tuesday, Nov. 19
Featured speaker: WSHS Technology Specialist Nicole Abba will talk about the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) at WSHS.
Registration link: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIlcOmvqzgpH9N3PerIOx-Fe9XJXBLNXDj1
Yindee Thai fundraiser ALL WEEK!!!
Help the PTSA raise funds by visiting Yindee Thai from this Sunday (Nov. 17) through next Saturday (Nov. 23) for lunch or dinner.
Dine in: Mention WSHS PTSA
If you order out, you must use this link for us to get credit
 West Springfield High PTSA
https://wshsptsa.net/
PERFORMING ARTS
PUFFS: Or Seven increasingly eventful years at a certain school of magic and magic
This clever and inventive play “never goes more than a minute without a laugh” (Nerdist) giving you a new look at a familiar adventure from the perspective of three potential heroes just trying to make it through a magic school that proves to be very dangerous for children. Alongside them are the Puffs, a group of well-meaning, loyal outsiders with a thing for badgers “who are so lovable and relatable, you’ll leave the theater wishing they were in the stories all along” (Hollywood Life). Their “hilariously heartfelt!” (Metro) and epic journey takes the classic story to new places and reimagines what a boy wizard hero can be.
Puffs is not authorized, sanctioned, licensed or endorsed by J.K Rowling, Warner Bros. or any person or company associated with the Harry Potter books, films or play.
Recommended for all ages! No previous “wizard” knowledge required!
Fri, Nov 15 @ 7p | Sat, Nov 16 @ 2p & 7p
Tickets
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🥪Panera Olympiad Fundraiser
Let Panera do the cooking for you next Friday night, November 15th, and support West Springfield’s Science Olympiad team.
Show this flyer at the Panera located on Rolling Road any time between the hours of 4-8pm or us the code FUND4U online, and Science Olympiad will receive 25% of the proceeds.
Thank you for supporting the team!
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SPORTS
Spartan Girls Wrestling Team: ECHO Food Drive
The Spartan Girls Wrestling Team will begin its inaugural season by hosting a food drive benefitting ECHO (Ecumenical Community Helping Others).
In an effort to help Take Down hunger in our community, we’ll collect non-perishable food items at our scrimmage at WSHS on 23 November 8 am-12 pm. Help us fill their shelves in time for Thanksgiving.
ECHO’s most requested items right now are:
spaghetti sauce, cereal, and canned fruit
Congratulations to our Girls Volleyball: Region Title Winners
Here is the latest line-up for postseason events
Friday, November 15th
Occoquan Region Football Quarterfinal - Edison @ West Springfield 7:00 PM
Saturday, November 16th
VHSL State Cross Country Meet @ Oatlands (10:30 and 11:15 AM)
VHSL State Girls Volleyball Quarterfinals vs. Glen Allen @ West Springfield @ 3:00 PM BRACKET HERE
🛏️Mattress Fundraiser: WS High School Band
If you or someone you know is looking to replace a bed in your home, now is the time!
The West Springfield High School Band is excited to announce it will be hosting a one-day Mattress Fundraiser on Saturday, November 16th, from 10am - 5pm in the West Springfield High cafeteria. There will be 30 different styles of beds on display for customers to try.
The brand name mattresses are made to order, have full factory warranties, are available in all sizes, and are priced below retail. In addition to beds, there will also be premium pillows, luxury sheets, mattress protectors, adjustable power bases and even massage chairs! Delivery & financing are available.
Proceeds will go toward our trip to perform in the NATIONAL CONCERT BAND FESTIVAL in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Visit the Facebook event and click “GOING”, INVITE YOUR FRIENDS! SHARE OUR POSTS: https://www.facebook.com/events/873369248238915/
Dynamite Sports: Guiding the College-Bound Athlete Seminar
Attention parents and athletes!
In an effort to educate parents and athletes about NCAA Eligibility, Athletic scholarships and the college recruiting process, Dynamite Sports will conduct a one-hour seminar entitled “Guiding the College-Bound Athlete” on Thursday Dec 5 at 7:30 p.m. at Robinson in Recital Hall.
This seminar will help you to become more knowledgeable and REALISTIC about athletic scholarships and the recruiting process.
This seminar will teach you how to:
- Setup COLLEGE Visits
- Receive a SCHOLARSHIP or GRANT
- Get NOTICED & RECRUITED
- Ensure NCAA Freshman Eligibility
- Create a “RECRUITING BLUEPRINT”
- Communicate with COLLEGE COACHES
- Why they should start as early as 7th grade
Attendees will receive a SAT/ACT Prep program valued at $350!
*Limit 1 per family / Tech Support not included*
Spirit Wear and Tickets
If you don’t have Spartan spirit wear, don’t worry -- the Booster Club will have plenty for sale!
The cost of all games is $5.00 for students and $7 for adults.
To avoid long lines, we strongly encourage you to purchase a Season Pass, through our eTIX Site. Or you can purchase individual game tickets here.
PLEASE VISIT our WEBSITE www.spartansports.net for more information and our game schedule.
 Spartan Sports Calendar Week of November 18-23
Stay in Touch with Spartan Sports!
You can follow WSHS Spartan Sports on social media:
Website: www.spartansports.net
Instagram: @wshs_sports
Sign Up For the Sports and Activities News You Choose
 School Activities Calendar. Check it out.
NEWS FOR THE COMMUNITY
🦃Blessing Baskets
Looking for an opportunity to help the community? Please consider donating a Blessing Basket or 2!
Drop-off items on November 22, 4:30-6:30 pm at Ledo's Pizza and Robeks patio at Cardinal Forest plaza: 8324 Old Keene Mill Road
Items to include in basket:
- Laundry Basket to hold goodies
- $20-25 gift certificate for Turkey (to local grocery store)
- Cans of corn, green beans, and cranberries
- Boxes of stuffing and mashed potatoes
- Can/packet of gravy and can of cream of mushroom soup
- Box of muffin/biscuit mix
- Non perishable dessert of your choosing
- Extra if you are inclined: Rice, Beans, Cereal, Dog Food, Socks, toys, toiletries, games, laundry detergent, etc.
Scan the QR code above or follow this link to sign up to donate!
Questions? Email Ania Cress or Anita Anderson
FCPS NEWS
Get to Know FCPS: Family Orientation
This interactive orientation provides information about the school system, the links between family engagement and student achievement, school staff you should get to know, and programs and technology considerations for families. The orientation also includes a discussion that is helpful for families who are new to the United States.
Sessions in English are held online on:
- Tuesday, December 10, at 6 p.m.
- Thursday, December 19, at 6 p.m.
Register in advance. Visit the Family Academy catalog page to see the dates this orientation will be offered in Arabic, Korean, and Spanish.
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:
- Boundary Review Committee Meetings
- Resources on IEPs, Financial Aid, Literacy, Community Leadership
- Teacher Hiring Event
Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.
No-Cost Virtual Therapy for High School Students
Virtual therapy sessions are available to FCPS high school students at no cost to provide a safe space to address concerns such as:
- Mood/behavior changes, motivation, grief/loss
- Anxiety, worry, fears
- Social skills, bullying, peer and family relationships
- Academic stress
You may refer your child by calling 571-749-2940 or by contacting our school counselor, social worker, psychologist, or director of Student Services.
Visit the FCPS Teletherapy webpage for more information.
FCPS Quick Links
WSHS Social Media
Find WSHS Spartans on:
Need Help? Contact our Family Liaison
If you have questions about navigating the school, learning about FCPS resources, or getting your student setup for success, our Family Liaison can help. Email or sign up for Talking Points. Use code the code T6AXZW
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