Annandale Community Insider - February 2

Annandale Students, Families, and Community,

It was great to see so many students displaying Atom Pride during Spirit Week and at Friday’s pep rally, where we came together to celebrate our winter athletes. A highlight of the event was the fashion show contest, where several staff members volunteered to be “models” and were dressed by students in a creative and spirited competition. A huge thank you to our Leadership students and Student Life team for organizing such a fun and engaging event. And of course, congratulations to all of our winter athletes—we’re proud of your hard work and dedication!

As we shift into February, we also celebrate Black History Month, a time to honor the achievements, contributions, and central role of African Americans in U.S. history. This year’s theme, "African Americans and Labor," highlights the impact Black workers, entrepreneurs, and leaders have had in shaping our nation’s economic and social landscape. At Annandale, we believe Black history is American history, and we remain committed to providing students with meaningful opportunities to engage with these important stories—not just this month, but all year long. See below for more details on how we’ll be celebrating throughout February.

In addition, this week marks National School Counseling Week, a time to recognize the incredible impact school counselors have on student success and well-being. Our counselors play a vital role in supporting students academically, socially, and emotionally—whether through classroom lessons, group sessions, or individual guidance. In honor of their dedication, students had the opportunity to write notes of appreciation during their W4 Advisory class, which will be shared with counselors later this week. If you’d like to learn more about the role of school counselors in FCPS, check out the School Counseling Services page.

Have a great week, Atom Nation, and as always, feel free to reach out with any questions. Go Atoms!

Shawn DeRose, Principal

Annandale Celebrates Black History Month

February is Black History Month. This year’s theme is “African Americans and Labor”. Throughout the month, we will celebrate and honor the experiences, achievements, and contributions made by African Americans and their central role in US History.

Our Social Studies teams are offering students opportunities to make their own connections to curriculum content and providing resources to further their learning. Currently, our US/VA History classes are wrapping up their Reconstruction unit, studying the African American experience during the Reconstruction era and the empowerment of Black elected officials into government office. In their next unit on Urbanization and Progressivism, students will be looking at the contributions of Black workers, progressivists, and the rise of Black Wall Street, especially during their Great Migration lesson.

In World History, students are wrapping up their Imperialism unit, learning about how African nations were impacted by imperialism. Students will soon learn about WWI and the role African Americans played in the war effort. In Government, students are about to begin their Executive Branch unit. During this unit, students will study presidential executive orders which advanced racial equality beginning with the Emancipation Proclamation. 

In addition, our African American History students are exploring black communities through the Latin American diaspora. Through the unit, students explored contributions to these communities and throughout Latin America. Over the past two years, students created school-wide lessons to highlight the contributions African Americans have made in shaping our country’s history. These lessons will be used again during W4 this year, as a wonderful opportunity for all of us to learn from and with each other.

Important Dates

February 3 - WiDA Testing Begins

February 3 - Atoms Booster Club Meeting, 6pm

February 3-7 - National School Counseling Week

February 4 - Report Cards Available in SIS

February 5 - AHS Science Fair

February 6 - PRIDE Time 3.0 Begins

February 10 - W4 Activities Day

February 11 - PTSA Social & Meeting, 5:30pm

February 12 - PTSA Pantry Distribution, 3:30pm

February 13 - Singing Valentines

February 17 - Presidents Day (No School)

February 18 - Virtual Winter Principal Check-In, 6:30pm

February 20 - Financial Aid Completion Workshop, 5:30pm

February 20 - Partners for Safe Teen Driving, 6:30pm

February 21 - Just World Festival

February 22 - Heritage Night

February 24 - Spring Sports Begin

February 26 - PTSA Pantry Distribution, 3:30pm

February 27 - NOVA Parent Night, 5:30pm

February 3 - Atoms Booster Club Meeting: Join us on Monday, February 3 in-person at Annandale High School in the Driver’s Education Room. The meeting will begin at 6:00pm. All members of the Atoms Booster Club are invited to attend to hear the latest updates on our Winter sports activities and support plans.

February 3-7 - National School Counseling Week: This week is National School Counseling Week, which 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. Our counselors focus on positive ways to enhance students’ academic, career and social/emotional development, work with our teachers to provide an environment where students can realize their potential, and work in a partnership with parents to support the needs of our students. We cannot thank our counseling team enough for all their hard work and dedication to the welfare of our students! 

February 4 - Report Cards & Transcripts Available in SIS: Students and parents can now access the GradeBook and Report Card modules in ParentVUE and StudentVUE to view grades. In addition, transcripts will be uploaded and available by the end of the week.

February 5 - AHS Science Fair: On Wednesday, February 5 (after school), Annandale will be holding our in-school science fair. From there, Annandale will select projects to compete in the Regional Science Fair that will take place the weekend of March 21-23. A huge shout-out to all of the teachers who guided students through the science fair project process. Over the last few months our science teams have been working to support students as they prepare their Science Fair Projects.

February 6 - PRIDE Time 3.0 Begins: New PRIDE Time 3.0 assignments will begin on Thursday, February 6. PRIDE Time rosters will be uploaded in SIS by COB on Wednesday, February 5. Students can find their new PRIDE Time assignments as period 11 in their schedule in SIS.

February 11 - PTSA Valentine’s Social & Meeting, 5:30pm: Our next meeting will be on February 11. Please join us early for a PTSA Valentine's Social. We'll have treats and decorations. Come mingle with other AHS families. We will open the doors for the social at 5:30pm. The monthly PTSA meeting will directly follow the social. Interested in helping with the social? Contact Angela at 571-618-8316, or atoms.ahs.president@gmail.com.

February 13 - Singing Valentines: On Thursday, February 13, the Choirs of AHS will deliver “Singing Valentines” throughout the day. Students can purchase a song for another student during all lunches, February 3-12.

Annandale Celebrates Our School Counselors!

School Counselors at Annandale are engaged in helping students examine their abilities, strengths, interests and talents; work in partnership with families as they encounter challenges of raising children in today’s world; focus on positive ways to enhance students’ academic, career, and social/emotional development; and work with teachers and other educators to provide an education system where students can realize their potential and set healthy, realistic and optimistic aspirations for themselves. We cannot thank our counseling team enough for all of their hard work and dedication to the welfare of our students! If you have not done so already, please reach out to our counselors to show them your appreciation! Their contact information can be found here. 

Awesome Atoms

Annandale Students Display Biliteracy Excellence: We are incredibly proud of our students who recently took the World Language Credit By Exam assessment. Out of 92 students tested, a total of 84 students earned credits towards their high school diploma. Of those, 71 students earned the full three credits and qualified for the VDOE Seal of Biliteracy, a prestigious recognition of their bilingual proficiency. This achievement highlights the dedication of our students and the strength of our language programs. Congratulations to all who participated in this important step toward multilingual excellence.

Mentors Make a Difference at Annandale: Mentors help young people find and follow their passions, excel in school, and thrive wherever they are. Atom Nation is all about building connections, and the bond between community mentor Connie Hunter and mentee Fatmata is a perfect example. Connie and Fatmata meet regularly over Zoom and get together in person about once a month, strengthening their relationship. This month, Connie has been cheering Fatmata on at her basketball games, inspired by the energy and persistence of her team. Their connection embodies the spirit of teamwork and community that defines Annandale!

Class of 2026 Blizzard Breakfast A Success: This past Saturday, the AHS Class of 2026 hosted the first annual Blizzard Breakfast in the Annandale High School Cafeteria. Families enjoyed a delicious pancake breakfast, fun crafts, photo booth, and a story corner designed just for kids. The highlight of the event was a special guest appearance by Olaf from Frozen, who brought big smiles and even bigger hugs! Thank you to everyone who attended and supported the Class of 2026. Your participation helps make events like this a success and strengthens our vibrant Annandale community! The Class of 2026 looks forward to seeing our families at Blizzard Breakfast again next year!

Summer Sports Camps - Registration Now Open!

Looking for fun activities for your child this summer? Annandale High School is offering a variety of summer camps this year for current elementary and middle school students led by our own Annandale coaches. Help spread the word to friends, family and neighbors! More information on signups upcoming!

Registration for all camps can be found here. See descriptions of the various camps below. More information can be found at AnnandaleAtoms.net. 

Campers can bring their lunch or purchase lunch at camp, and they should bring a snack and a water bottle each day. Cash or checks are accepted. Checks should be made out to “Annandale Athletic Boosters.” Payment is due on the first day of camp.

Multi-Sport Camp - Rising 2nd-9th Graders - June 16-18, 20 ($120): Campers will have fun playing a variety of sports including basketball, kickball, volleyball, soccer, and touch football. They will participate in fun contests and win prizes! Campers can bring their lunch or purchase lunch at camp. Hours are 8:30am-3:00pm. 

Olympics Camp - Rising 2nd-9th Graders - June 23-27 ($120): This exciting camp features team activities including soccer, volleyball, basketball, touch football, and relay races. Campers will also get a chance to compete and earn medals! Campers can bring their lunch or purchase lunch at camp. Hours are 8:30am-3:00pm. For questions about Multi-Sport or Olympics Camps, please reach out to Christopher Bagot, Camp Director and Varsity Coach.

Wrestling Camp – K-12 - July 7-11 ($120 individual/$200 sibling): This camp is for all ages wrestling camp will spend time developing the skills in all three styles of wrestling, one style each of the first three days. In addition to technique and various games, on the last two days of camp there will be a takedown tournament and individually bracketed tournament! Campers can bring their lunch or purchase lunch at camp. Hours are 9:00am to 3:00pm. For questions about Wrestling Camp please reach out to Josh Damico, Camp Director and Varsity Coach.

Basketball Camp - Rising 3rd-9th Graders - July 21-25 ($225): Campers will spend each day focused on developing their basketball skills. They will also receive a report card on their basketball abilities, a t-shirt, and a chance to win trophies. Campers can bring their lunch or purchase lunch at camp. Hours are 9:00am to 3:00pm. For questions about Basketball Camp please reach out to Jerome McAvoy or Chelsea Harrison Camp Directors and Varsity Coaches.

Baseball Skills Camp -  Rising 3rd-9th Graders - August 12-16, 5pm-7pm ($110, or $25 a session) This camp is designed for 3rd - 9th graders and will be held on the baseball field at Annandale High. Focus will be on preparation for fall season and overall skill development. Camp will be conducted by Annandale High School Coaches and current college baseball players. Camp will run from 5pm-7pm. Questions, reach out to head baseball coach and camp director Kevin Rudd

Opportunities

Spring Sports Tryouts Begin February 24! Spring sports tryouts are just around the corner, starting on Monday, February 24. This season includes lacrosse, soccer, baseball, softball, tennis, and outdoor track. To participate, all athletes must complete two requirements prior to Friday, February 21: submit a completed sports physical to Athletic Trainer Ryan Hughes and complete the online activity registration, which includes the Emergency Care Form and Concussion Education Training. Athletes who do not have these items on file by February 21 will not be allowed to try out on February 24. Those who submit their physical and registration after this date will become eligible to try out starting the day after their forms are received. For more information and updates, visit www.annandaleatoms.net. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the action—get ready to represent Atom Nation this spring!

Application Open for the 2025 Student Representative to the School Board: The School Board student representative represents the interests of Fairfax County Public Schools students. The student representative is not a member of the School Board but serves in a nonvoting, advisory capacity. Students currently in grades 9, 10, and 11 are eligible. To learn more and apply check out the FCPS Website.

Now through February 21 - Heritage Night Tickets on Sale: Due to popular demand, we will hold two performances of Heritage Night. The performances will take place February 22 at 2:00pm and 6:00pm. Don’t miss this amazing opportunity for Annandale students to showcase their culture through music, dance, fashion, and more. Cost is $10. No tickets will be available for purchase at the door! This event has been incredibly popular in the past, so we highly recommend purchasing your tickets now to ensure a spot at this incredible performance! Get your tickets today!

All Night Grad Tickets On Sale Now! We’re excited to announce that tickets are now on sale for this year’s All Night Grad Celebration. This event is a safe and fun place for your kids to enjoy a night out. This is adult supervised and volunteer run by Annandale High School PTSA and parents. This year the event takes place on June 4, beginning at 11pm, Doors will close at Midnight. The cost is $45 with prices increasing to $60 at the door. The evening will feature delicious food, games, DJ, and top-notch entertainment—there’s something for everyone to enjoy! *Discounted tickets are also available for students in need. If your child would like to apply, they can speak directly to their school counselor. Don’t miss this chance to celebrate in a welcoming and secure environment. Get your tickets now! To make this event a success, we need your help! Sign up to volunteer here. Email Rheanna Bernard with any questions.

News from Student Services

Academic Advising for the 2025-26 School Year: At Annandale, we want to ensure students and families know where to access all the information needed for course selection. Our Academic Advising page has the grade level information presented by counselors and the course selection Google forms that students must complete. We encourage you to visit this site with your student to discuss courses for next year.

Please reach out to our counselors if any questions or concerns arise. Their emails and phone numbers can be found on our Student Services page. We are here to help and look forward to supporting our students through this process! In addition, below is an overview of how we are supporting students with the course selection process.

Now through February 28 - Individual Academic Advising Meetings: Students will meet one-on-one with their counselors to finalize their course selections for next year. Students will be given specific appointment times through their English classes. Students will receive their appointment times via email. We will begin with current juniors on January 21 and will conclude with current freshmen in February. 

Now through February 19 - High School Academy Open Houses: FCPS high school academies will hold open houses for interested students beginning in mid-January. A high school academy is a center within a high school that offers advanced technical and specialized courses that can prepare students for postsecondary education and/or career fields. Students enrolling in Academy elective courses will be provided with opportunities to participate in a variety of career experiences including shadowing, mentoring, and/or internships with local businesses. Click here to learn more and find the calendar of Academy Open Houses.

College Application Help: Annandale High School offers free college application support twice each week. Wednesdays during Lunch in the Career Center (Room 103) and Thursdays 3-4pm in Trailer 14. In addition, the Atoms Writing Center will be available to help students with their college essays and supplemental application questions during PRIDE Time and Wednesdays after school from 3-4pm in room 274.

College & Career Resources Schoology Site: Check out the Student Services: Annandale High School Schoology Page, which provides up-to-date information on the college application process; college representative visits; financial aid and FAFSA/VASA workshops; military options; information on apprenticeships; as well as resources for finding a job.

News from the Activities Office

At Annandale, we foster belonging both inside and outside the classroom. Sports and activities are another way for students to deepen a sense of belonging at school. To learn more about Annandale's program, check out this week’s “Atoms Athletics and Activities Newsletter." In addition, learn more about Annandale High School Athletics and Activities by visiting their website, AHS Athletics Twitter or Instagram page.

Purchase Your 'Atoms Pass' for 2024-2025! The Atoms Booster Club’s All-Season passes are back! The "Atoms Pass" provides you general admission access to all regular season home football, baseball, basketball, soccer, field hockey, lacrosse, volleyball, and wrestling events. With more than nine sports showcased, you can save BIG with the all-season pass! To purchase your Click here to purchase your 2024-25 Atoms Booster Pass! 

Annandale Baseball Winter Camp—Sign Up Today! Join us for the Annandale Baseball Winter Camp at Annandale High School, designed for players in grades K–8. These skill-focused sessions are led by the Atoms coaching staff and players and will take place in our main and auxiliary gyms. The camp covers key areas like throwing, defense, and hitting, with all necessary equipment provided if your player needs a glove, bat, or helmet. Just wear tennis shoes and come ready to play!

Each session runs from 9:30 to 11:00am, with a cost of $25 per session or $110 for all five sessions. The camp will be held on the following dates: February 9, and February 16 for hitting. Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to improve your skills and have fun with the Atoms! Click here to register for the Annandale Baseball Winter Camp.

Atoms Gear On Sale Now! We’re thrilled to share that we have a new Atoms online store! The new store has a variety of brands like Nike, Under Armour, Lululemon, and more. You will find hundreds of different design options, kids and toddler clothing, new accessories, and direct to your door shipping. Grab your gear now!

News from the PTSA

PTSA Membership for the 2024-25 School Year: The Annandale High School PTSA is committed to helping our students and community. Together, we sponsor many programs and activities for our students, parents, and staff, including teacher grants, community outreach events, AHS Food Pantry, All Night Grad Celebration, Senior Scholarships, and more! Please consider joining for the 2024-2025 school year by filling out the online Membership Form. For more information about membership visit the Annandale PTSA website.

February 11 - PTSA Valentine’s Social & Meeting, 5:30pm: Our next meeting will be on February 11. Please join us early for a PTSA Valentine's Social. We'll have treats and decorations. Come mingle with other AHS families. We will open the doors for the social at 5:30pm. The monthly PTSA meeting will directly follow the social. Interested in helping with the social? Contact Angela at 571-618-8316, or atoms.ahs.president@gmail.com.

Support Our Seniors! Donate Your Time or Items to Our Auction: We're gearing up for our All Night Grad Auction, and we need your help to make it unforgettable! We're seeking item donations to auction off, with all proceeds benefiting the All Night Grad Celebration, an amazing event for our graduating class. Items We’re Looking For: Gift cards, themed baskets, vacation or getaway donations, event tickets, services, or any creative contributions! Ready to donate? Visit http://bit.ly/40jc0AZ. Deadline to Donate: March 1. Thank you for your generosity!

Volunteers Needed for the All Night Grad Celebration: We also need volunteers to support the All Night Grad Celebration! Lets keep the legacy of this amazing event, providing a safe environment for our Seniors to celebrate their graduation. Sign up here to support the day of the event.

PTSA Pantry Is Always Restocking and Needs Your Help! The AHS PTSA Pantry supports current AHS students who experience food insecurity. We are gearing up for the new school year and need your help to restock our shelves! In addition, the pantry distribution schedule for the school year can be found here. All donations to the AHS PTSA Pantry are tax deductible. Contact the pantry with questions.