Important Upcoming Dates
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02/03-02/07- National School Counseling Week
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02/05/25- 7:00pm- NHS Induction Ceremony
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02/06- 02/08- 7:00pm- SCHS Theatre Annual One-Act-Play Festival
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02/11/25- 7:00pm- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
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02/15/25- 12:00 pm & 5:00pm- International Night
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02/17/25- Washington’s Birthday and Presidents’ Day (Holiday)
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04/07/25 7:00pm- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
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06/04/25- 7:00pm- Class of 2025 Graduation (Eagle Bank)
Message from Dr. Khoshaba
Greetings to our SoCo families!
What an incredible start to the new year! January brought us a magical snowfall and so many unforgettable moments in and out of the classroom. From joyful learning to special school memories, we’ve kicked off 2024 with energy and excitement! As we look ahead, February promises even more opportunities for growth, connection, and fun. But before we jump into what’s next, let’s take a moment to celebrate the highlights of this past week!
Student and Staff Belonging
Stallion Standouts: Celebrating Talented Athletes!
What an exciting week it has been! With a pre-game celebration for our Seniors, our Girls’ Basketball team took on Lake Braddock and hooped their way to a spectacular victory! With skill, determination, and unstoppable teamwork, they dominated the court and brought home a well-earned win. It was a game to remember, and we couldn’t be prouder of their hard work and school spirit. Way to go, team!
Our JV Girls’ Basketball team put on an impressive performance against Lake Braddock, showing incredible hustle, teamwork, and determination! They played with heart and gave it their all, making us so proud with their effort and sportsmanship. Their hard work is paying off, and we can’t wait to see them continue to grow and shine on the court. Keep up the great work, ladies!
A special shoutout to junior Brandon Velasco for his phenomenal, patriotic guitar performance of the national anthem before the varsity game! His talent and passion set the perfect tone for the night, and his rendition was truly unforgettable. Thank you, Brandon, for sharing your music and school spirit with us!
Gridiron Glory: Celebrating Our Journey
This past Sunday, we had the honor of celebrating our football team at their end-of-season banquet, recognizing their unmatched dedication, relentless determination, and unstoppable team spirit. Throughout the season, they showcased incredible perseverance, grit, and sportsmanship, making our school community proud every step of the way. From thrilling victories to hard-fought battles, this team gave it their all, proving that their commitment both on and off the field is second to none. Congratulations to our players, coaches, and families for an unforgettable season—your hard work and heart truly define what it means to be a champion!
School Culture
Honor Above All
Aaban and John exemplified true integrity when they found cash left on a cafeteria table and immediately turned it in. Their quick and honest action made a big difference when the student who lost the money came rushing in, frantic and worried. Thanks to Aaban and John’s thoughtfulness, the student was able to retrieve the cash and was relieved to know that honesty and responsibility are values upheld within our school community. Their actions remind us all of the importance of doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. We are proud to have students like Aaban and John who make our school a better, more trustworthy place.
Science Spectacular: A Fair to Remember!
Our annual Science Fair was a "mind-blowing" event, where students showcased their spectacular projects and stellar scientific skills! From fascinating formulas to creative concepts, they "experimented" with ideas and "produced" projects that truly impressed. It was a day where curiosity met creativity, and every discovery gave students the opportunity to "shine" in the world of science! Thank you to everyone who volunteered to be part of this most special event!
A True School Partner
Casey Whitmarsh, a dedicated State Farm agent, has been a consistent and generous supporter of South County High School. His commitment to our school community goes beyond the usual, as he frequently contributes to various school needs and initiatives. Just this past week, Casey made a significant donation that will allow us to purchase two new water fountains for the school. His thoughtful contribution will not only improve the daily experience for our students but also reinforces the strong partnership between State Farm and South County. We are incredibly grateful for Casey’s continued support and his investment in the well-being of our students and staff.
Seeking a Community Champion: Help Us Celebrate 20 Years!
We are still seeking a community member or group to help coordinate our upcoming 20th anniversary celebration. Unfortunately, we have not yet received any responses, and we would greatly appreciate your support in making this milestone event a success. One individual or group is needed to help bring everything together, and your involvement would be invaluable in ensuring this celebration reflects the spirit of our school community. If you are interested in taking on this important role, please reach out to us—together, we can make this a memorable occasion for all!
Investing in Success: Maddie Conway and Team Capture Second Place!
Our Criminal Justice students had an outstanding showing at the SkillsUSA Regional Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) competition at Chantilly Academy this morning! We're thrilled to announce that Maddie Conway was part of the team that earned an impressive Second Place finish in the CSI competition. Huge congratulations to Maddie and the entire team for their hard work and success—what an amazing achievement! Way to go, Maddie!
Hall Pass 2.0: Enhancing Safety and Accountability!
We are excited to introduce the Securly Hall Pass system at our school to improve student safety and accountability while they are outside the classroom. This digital system will help track and manage student movement throughout the school day, creating a safer and more organized learning environment for everyone.
The benefits of Securly Hall Pass include enhanced safety, improved accountability, fewer disruptions, and better emergency preparedness.
Staff Spotlight
Let's celebrate Mr. Strausser and his incredible journey at South County! With three years of dedicated teaching at SoCo, Mr. Strausser brings a wealth of experience, having previously worked as a supervisor and mechanic at Enterprise. A proud local, he grew up right here and attended Hayfield Secondary. Beyond the classroom, Mr. Strausser is passionate about working on cars, enjoys a good meal at Mission BBQ, and loves snowboarding and camping. Fun fact: he used to drag race competitively! What makes him truly special, though, is the way he connects with his students. During lunch, a group of his students shared all of this with me while he listened attentively—showing just how much he cares. That was the moment we witnessed the birth of new "Straussies" in the making!
Club Corner
The National Art Honor Society aids members in attaining the highest standards in Art Scholarship, Character, and Service. Students dedicate their time to annual service events such as the Jingle Bells Kids Shop, The Spring Fling, School murals and the Memory Project. When South County students join NAHS, they join a distinguished network of over 46,000 art students.
The photos attached are of the Jingle Bells Kids Shop and our holiday potluck.
Spotlight: Days of Joy
Our SGA students played a crucial role in assisting with the logistics for our countywide HSPA meeting. They arrived extra early or helped during the first period of the day by escorting visitors to the meeting. Our visitors were impressed by how personable, engaging, and school-spirited our SoCo students are. A special thank you to Sam Geller, Ryan Steel, Janie Kurz, and Abby Nielsen for their hard work!
Later in the morning, these same students assisted in escorting Dr. Reid, our Superintendent, and her team to the meeting: Sunha Malloy, Alayna Krynicki, and Sam Erickson. Thank you all for your exceptional help and representation of South County!
Final Call: FCPS Wants Your Feedback
Parents, we encourage you to complete the cell phone survey that was emailed to your individual accounts. Your feedback is important to help our central office make informed decisions about the future of our county-wide cell phone policy.
Kambar
#StandStrong
SCHS Theatre is hosting their annual One-Act-Play Festival Thursday 2/6 - Saturday 2/8 starting at 7pm.
Each night, South County students will perform 3-4 different short plays which are directed by students as well.
Tickets are available at https://www.schstheatre.com and are only $8/night. Please come out and support SCHS Theatre and have a fun night!!
Buy your tickets today!
ANGP Ticket Sales
Your ANGP ticket ensures an evening packed with fun activities, including:
- Volleyball and Pickleball
- Basketball
- Soccer and Football
- Ice Rink
- Photo Booth 📸
- Cash Giveaways 💵
- Casino & DJ 🎶
- Obstacle Course & Bull Riding 🐂
- Video Games 🎮
- Lots of Food 🍕🍔
Plus, it’s the Last Stampede with friends — the perfect way to celebrate and make lasting memories!
We are also looking for sponsors and gift cards. Your generous donations will help us cover costs and provide a memorable event.
ANGP Committee
angp@southcountyptso.org
Buy your tickets here
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.
SOUTH COUNTY MS
SOCO STAMPEDE 5K & 1M Family Fun Run
SAVE THE DATE!
Date: March 22nd
Time: 9:00 AM – Noon
Location: South County MS Campus
🎉 Join us for a fun-filled day of fitness and community spirit!
💸 Early Bird Registration Begins Today! REGISTER HERE Don’t miss out on the chance to secure your spot at a discounted rate!
👟 Bring your family and friends to enjoy a day of fitness, family, and fun! There will be food, raffles, and a DJ.
For more information contact Chris Woodby at cwwoodby@fcps.edu
Family Race Sign Sponsorship Opportunity
Make your family’s mark on the FIRST EVER SOCO STAMPEDE! Personalized signs with your cheers will line the racecourse, inspiring runners & creating memories. Support SCMS After-School Program & Athletics with your purchase of a sign. Each sign is only $100, and please contact Mr. Chris Woodby at cwwoodby@fcps.edu to order yours today! SIGN SPONSORSHIP
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February Is Career and Technical Education Month
By enrolling in a Career and Technical Education (CTE) course or program, students learn the technical applications of many occupations while preparing for higher education or entry-level employment. A core program of CTE courses is offered in every middle and high school including Business and Information Technology, Family and Consumer Sciences, Health and Medical Sciences, Marketing, Technology and Engineering Education, and Trade and Industrial Education. Since this is an elective, course offerings may vary by school. Learn more on the FCPS CTE webpage.
CTE also offers summer programs for students to explore their programs. Enroll now!
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VSBA School Board Appreciation Month
Thank you to the Fairfax County School Board for all they do throughout the year. Want to contact your school board representatives to share your appreciation? Visit their website to find your school board member and contact them.
National School Counseling Week
February 3-7 is National School Counseling Week, and highlights the tremendous impact school counselors have in helping students achieve academic success and planning for a career.School counselors work with students in a variety of different capacities, whether it is through classroom lessons, group sessions, or individual counseling. Learn more about the role of school counselors in FCPS.
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
How to Stay In Touch
Please stay in touch with us throughout the year by:
Quick Links
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