Annandale Community Insider - April 6

Annandale Students, Families, and Community,

This week we kicked off end of year celebrations with our Senior Breakfast. Members of the Class of 2025 gathered in the auditorium to learn about important events leading up to graduation. Here is a link to the information they received. After the presentation, seniors had an opportunity to enjoy breakfast with their peers. A huge thank you to our senior parents, and Chick-fil-A Annandale for sponsoring the event.

On Tuesday, we will hold a special screening of a powerful documentary by Annandale alum Jacqueline Lundquist (Class of 1982), which explores her father’s Vietnam War experience through his letters and tapes. The film, created with fellow AHS graduates Jude Pago and Andre Jones, shares a moving story of connection and reconciliation. An in-school screening will be held from 9:50-11:15am, followed by a public showing at 6:00pm, with a PTSA-hosted social at 5:15pm. We hope you will join us!

As we enter this final stretch of the school year, our focus continues to be on providing high-quality instruction and targeted support through PRIDE Time and ASAP. To further prepare students for upcoming SOL and IB assessments, we will offer Super Saturdays - dedicated review sessions designed to reinforce key content and boost confidence. The schedule includes April 26 for Reading, Algebra 2, Geometry, IB Business, and IB Environmental Science; May 3 for Algebra 1 and IB Geography; and May 10 for Biology, Chemistry, and IB Math. Due to Spring Break, Geosystems students will participate in an in-school blitz instead of a Saturday session. Be on the lookout for an invitation. We appreciate your support in encouraging students to take advantage of these valuable opportunities.

Finally, this week is National Assistant Principal’s week. Our team of Assistant Principals do an incredible job every day supporting our students, families, and staff. They serve as instructional leaders, collaborate to ensure every student is receiving the support they need, and keep our school a safe place. A huge thank you to our Assistant Principals Kara Franklin-Taylor, Donna Higgins, Hanna Langstein, Jae Lee, Jeniva Miller, and Aaron Schneider.

Have a great week, Atom Nation. As always, reach out with any questions.

Shawn DeRose, Principal

Parent Volunteers and Donations Needed! 

The final two months of school include a number of exciting events and many opportunities to donate or volunteer at Annandale High School. Your support is not just appreciated; it's essential. 

Volunteering or donating is a testament to the strength and unity of our school community. Your willingness to contribute not only enriches our school culture and supports our students’ success, but also serves as a powerful model of community engagement for our students. See detailed opportunities below. 

PTSA Nominating Committee: Each year the PTSA forms a committee to identify people interested in serving as PTSA officers. The Nominating Committee advertises the opportunities available and explains how to apply, receives nominations and identifies potential candidates, and presents a slate of nominees at the April PTSA general membership meeting. Contact Angela Torres at atoms.ahs.president@gmail.com for more information or to sign up.

Concession Stand Coverage - Help Wanted! Click on a link below to sign up and support our Atoms Booster club! If anyone has trouble with the above links, please email odessapmurray@gmail.com. Thank you for your support!

Softball & Baseball: Sign Up Here

Soccer: Sign Up Here 

Lacrosse: Sign Up Here

Proctors Needed for IB Exams: Calling all Volunteers! The IB exams are starting soon and we are in need of help to proctor the exams. Volunteers are needed to walk around the testing room occasionally and sit/monitor students. No special training is needed ahead of time. Each testing room will have at least one experienced proctor that will be in charge of administering the test. We just need additional adult supervision. Volunteers must be 21 or older. Bring your driver’s license to check-in at the main office. Dress casually with comfortable shoes!

Check out this Sign Up Genius. Questions? Please email Linda Bradshaw, IB DP Coordinator. Any help you can provide would be much appreciated! Thanks for supporting our IB students!

Help Recognize our Amazing Teachers! Seeking $5-$10 Gift Card Donations: This year, Teacher Appreciation Week is from May 6-10. As a gesture of our appreciation of all the hard work and flexibility our teachers have demonstrated this year, we would like to offer a small gift to teachers. We are asking that you please donate $5-$10 gift cards, to any establishment of your choice, from now until May 3. If you are able to donate, please drop off gift cards to the Main Office or purchase gift cards via Amazon and have them shipped to Annandale High School. We appreciate your support in celebrating the amazing work our teachers are doing this year.

May 9 - Prom Chaperones Needed: The Class of 2025 is seeking volunteers to chaperone Prom. Annandale’s Prom is on Friday, May 9 from 8pm - 11pm at the River View at Occoquan (9751 Ox Rd, Lorton, VA 22079). This is a great time to celebrate the Class of 2025 in a beautiful location! Please use this link to sign up to be a chaperone for a two-hour shift at the greatest event of the year! Email Stefanie Kline with questions.

June 4 - 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.

Important Dates

April 7 - Special Olympics Feet Meet

April 8 - Letters from the Battlefield Screening, 5:15pm

April 8 - PTSA Meeting, 7pm

April 9 - Purple Up! Day

April 9 - PTSA Pantry Distribution, 3:30pm

April 9 - NOVA Regional College Fair

April 10 - Virtual Military Night

April 11 - ASVAB Testing

April 14-18 - Spring Break

April 22 - Bus Driver Appreciation Day

April 22 - Signing Day for Future College Athletes

April 23 - PTSA Pantry Distribution, 3:30pm

April 24 - Administrative Professionals Day

April 25 - SOL Testing Begins

April 26 - Unified Track Meet, 9am

April 29 - IB Testing Begins

April 7 - Atoms Booster Club Meeting: Join us tomorrow, April 7 in-person at Annandale High School in the Driver’s Education Room. The meeting will begin at 6pm. All members of the Atoms Booster Club are invited to attend to hear the latest updates on our spring sports and activities. If you have any questions, please contact Brandon Sutphin.

April 7 - Special Olympics Feet Meet: Tomorrow from 9:00am to 12:00am, Annandale High School will proudly host the inaugural Annandale Pyramid Special Olympics Feet Meet, bringing together schools from the Annandale Pyramid and across the division for a day of inclusion, friendship, and fun. Feet Meets create opportunities for students with and without intellectual disabilities to train and play together, fostering understanding and connection. Join us in celebrating inclusion and sportsmanship at the Annandale Pyramid Feet Meet!

April 8 - Documentary Screening - Letters from the Battlefield: Join us for a powerful documentary by Annandale graduate Jacqueline Lundquist (Class of 1982), exploring her father’s experience in the Vietnam War through his letters and audio tapes. Decades after his passing, Jacqueline retraced his footsteps and unexpectedly connected with a former North Vietnamese soldier, revealing two parallel yet deeply human stories. This documentary is truly an Annandale production—director Jude Pago and videographer Andre Jones, both from the Class of 1982, were also part of this incredible project. We will host an in-school screening for students from 9:50-11:15am. That evening, there will be a second showing at 6:00pm. Prior to the evening screening, the PTSA will host a social gathering beginning at 5:15pm. This is a unique opportunity to experience a moving story of war, family, and reconciliation.

April 8 - PTSA Meeting, 7pm: Our next PTSA meeting will be on Tuesday, April 8 after the Letters From the Battlefield screening. Spanish translation will be available. If you can't attend in person, consider joining us virtually on Zoom. The link will be active 15 minutes prior to the start of the meeting. Also, if you have not done so already, please consider joining the PTSA by filling out the online Membership Form. For more information about membership visit the Annandale PTSA website.

April 9 - Purple Up! Day 2025: April is the Month of the Military Child! FCPS is proud to have over 14,000 military-connected youth as a part of our student body. On Wednesday, April 9, all FCPS employees, students, families, and community members are encouraged to “Purple Up” to show our support for all military-connected families. Learn more about Month of the Military Child and FCPS’ resources for military families.

April 9 - NOVA Regional College Fair: The Office of Admissions at George Mason University is holding its annual Northern Virginia Regional College Fair (NVRCF) on Wednesday, April 9 from 6:30-8:30pm at EagleBank Arena. Students will have the opportunity to meet with admissions representatives from more than 200 colleges and universities. This will be a great opportunity to get students motivated and excited about their post-secondary plans while equipping them with the tools and information necessary to successfully navigate the college search and application process.

April 10 - Virtual Military Night: FCPS School Counseling Services is hosting a Virtual Military Night on Thursday, April 10 from 6-8pm. This event is open to high school students and their families who want to explore military career pathways. Representatives will share information about enlistment, service academies, and ROTC programs, providing valuable insights into the opportunities available. Don’t miss this chance to learn more and ask questions! If you have questions, please email Meredith Kim.

April 11 - ASVAB Testing Day: Annandale High School will host the ASVAB on Friday, April 11, for students in grades 10-12. The test will begin at 8:30am and may take 3 to 4 hours to complete. For questions contact Viri Acosta, College and Career Specialist.

April 14-18 - Spring Break: Schools and school offices will be closed. See the complete 2024-25 school year calendar.

Awesome Atoms

Jeniva Miller Named Interim Assistant Principal: We are excited to announce that Jeniva Miller has been appointed as the Interim Assistant Principal at Annandale High School. Jeniva has served as an Instructional Coach at Annandale for the past four years and steps into this role as Sarah Eqab was recently named Interim Principal at Poe Middle School. Jeniva's strong instructional leadership, dedication to student success, and passion for our community make her a wonderful addition to our administrative team. Please join us in congratulating Jeniva!

AVID Students Visit Marymount University: On Friday, 46 AVID students had the opportunity to visit Marymount University for an engaging college experience. The day included an informative session, a guided campus tour, and lunch in the dining hall. Students also had the chance to connect with current Marymount students and explore academic programs, majors, and special opportunities the university offers.

Important Information

April 29 through May 21 - IB Testing: IB Testing will start soon. Here is the link to the detailed IB Testing calendar with arrival time and test duration. IB does not offer make-up exams. Locations consist of the upper gym and the library. Students testing in the afternoon should eat A lunch. Students are required to remain in the testing room for the full duration of each exam. Students should bring pens and pencils as well as a calculator. Backpacks and cell phones will be stored in the back of the room and can not be accessed during testing. If the exam is scheduled to continue after the final school bell, students need to arrange for alternative transportation home. In order for a student to receive a score, students must sit for all portions of the assessment including submitting an internal assessment.

Students with IB approved testing accommodations will be notified prior to testing. Late arrival/early dismissal forms for IB testing dates can be found in the Attendance Office after spring break. Contact Linda Bradshaw with any questions.

Opportunities

Career Exploration Opportunity - Sign Up to Take the ASVAB! The ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) is a free career exploration assessment that helps students identify their strengths and explore career options in fields like skilled trades, healthcare, technology, and the military. This test isn’t just for those considering military service—it’s a valuable tool for any student looking to understand their skills and plan for life after high school. Plus, students who earn a qualifying score will receive the Career Readiness Medal to wear at graduation. The ASVAB will be offered during school on April 11, so sign up today! For questions, see Ms. Acosta, College & Career Specialist. Sign up to take the ASVAB today!

Free Prom Dresses and Suits at Promise: Do you need a dress or suit for Prom? Do you know someone that might need one? We got you! Prom is coming up on May 9th at the River View in Occoquan, and Annandale’s premiere prom fashion shop has you covered. Promise offers gently used, yet stylish dresses, suits, shoes, clutches and accessories for you to wear to prom – and to keep! Check out our updated inventory that offers a style for everyone’s taste. Stay tuned for the announcement for our grand opening and we look forward to helping you find a perfect look for Prom 2025. For further information reach out to Mr. Henceroth or visit him in room 210. We "Promise" Annandale Prom 2025 will be a night to remember!

Permit Testing at Annandale High School: We’re excited to offer several more opportunities this spring for students to take their permit test right here at Annandale High School! Testing will take place at 3:15pm in Room 43, and is open to all students. Here are the remaining dates: Thursday, April 10; Thursday, April 24; Wednesday, April 30, Thursday, May 8; Wednesday, May 14; Tuesday, May 20 (no late bus). Register at bit.ly/AHSPermitTesting. Questions? Email Ms. McManus at msmcmanus@fcps.edu.

Earn Credit Toward Graduation This Summer: Take advantage of the opportunity to earn a high school course credit via this summer’s online campus program. Registration is now open. Students must register by Friday, June 6. Mathematics, health and physical education, career and technical education, English, science, social studies, and world language courses are available to eligible middle and high school students. Summer is a great time for high school students to fulfill the Economics and Personal Finance course requirement. This is a self-directed course where students work independently. The course is available between Monday, June 23, and Friday, July 25. Registration is now open. Students must register by Friday, May 23. For more information, visit this Summer Learning page.

CTE & Institute for the Arts Summer Camp: CTE Summer Academy (CSA) is a week-long enrichment program that allows students in grades 6-11 to dive deeper into CTE program areas, develop skills, and begin career exploration. Watch this video about CTE camps. 

IFTA is a two or three-week summer enrichment program for students currently in grades 6-11. Students select from nearly 90 classes in art, dance, Health and Physical Education 9 (graduation requirement), music, and theater. 

CTE and Institute for the Arts camps will be held in July at Lake Braddock Secondary School from 8:30am to 2pm. Bus transportation will be available from select FCPS middle and high schools. Registration is now open and will end Friday, June 6.

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 Update: Academic advising has officially wrapped up, and families may be wondering what courses their students have selected for next year. Parents and guardians can review course selections through SIS Parent Vue, clicking “Course Requests” on the left toolbar. Please note that this information is not a schedule, it is a list of courses only. Schedules will be finalized and released in August before school starts. 

Hazel Health - Virtual Therapy for High School Students: Teletherapy services are available for all FCPS high school students at no cost. Sessions can be scheduled Monday through Friday, 7am-7pm Hazel Health’s highly qualified therapists specialize in working with teens. Learn more on FCPS’ teletherapy webpage

Academic Support & Tutoring Opportunities

Need Help in Your Class? Stay After School With Your Teacher: Stay With Your Teacher After School! Annandale High School offers late bus transportation three (3) days per week: Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday. All teachers stay after school at least one day a week to provide academic support for students. Please refer to this list to see which day your student’s teacher is available after school.

Need to Retake an Assessment? The Retake Room in Room 299 (at the end of the Social Studies hall) is available for students who need to retake assessments or make up missed assignments. Retakes are offered after school on Late Bus Days and every White Day during PRIDE Time. Students must coordinate with their teacher to sign up. Take advantage of this opportunity to improve your grades and demonstrate your learning!

Need Writing Help? Visit the Atoms Writing Center! The Atoms Writing Center (AWC) is here to support all Annandale students with their writing in any subject. Whether you're working on an essay, lab report, or college application, our trained peer tutors provide free, judgment-free assistance to help you improve your writing skills. We are available in Room 274 on Wednesdays after school from 3-4 PM and during PRIDE Time. Students can also submit their work online and receive feedback from a tutor within 48 hours. To sign up for a tutoring session, use our 3rd Quarter Cover Sheet here. Take advantage of this great resource to gain confidence and strengthen your writing—we look forward to working with you.

Get Free Live Tutoring with Varsity Tutors! Annandale students have free access to live tutoring through Varsity Tutors! Whether you need help understanding a challenging concept, preparing for a test, or getting feedback on your writing, expert tutors are available to support you. Take advantage of this great resource to strengthen your skills and boost your confidence in any subject. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors. 

April 26 - Super Saturdays Begin: Annandale will continue the tradition of success that was established prior to, and even during COVID, by supporting students with Super Saturday SOL prep prior to testing. Invitations will be going out to students to attend these events beginning in early April. Below is the tentative Saturday School schedule: April 26 - Reading, Algebra 2, Geometry, IB Business, and IB Environmental Science; May 3 - Algebra 1 and IB Geography; May 10 - Biology, Chemistry, and IB Math. Due to Spring Break, in lieu of a Super Saturday, Geosystems will have an In-School Blitz.

College & Career Assistance and Financial Aid

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.

College Application Help: Annandale High School offers free college application support. Students can visit the College and Career Center during PRIDE Time, lunch or by appointment. In addition, assistance is available on Thursdays from 3-4pm in Trailer 14. It’s not too late for seniors to apply for FAFSA and NOVA and now is a great time for juniors to get a head start on their college applications. 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. If you have any questions, please email Viri Acosta.

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.

Booster Membership Fee Reduced! The cost of Booster Memberships is now 50% less! The new low price will be Adults $35 and Students $15 (including Elementary, Middle, and High School Students). The Booster pass allows Free Admission to all regular season JV and Varisty games. This includes ALL Spring season sports: Baseball, Softball, Soccer, and Lacrosse. Check Atoms Athletics schedules and buy your Booster Pass here.

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!

Save the Date! Athletic Physical Exams: On Monday, June 2, Annandale High School will host an opportunity for student-athletes to complete their Pre-Participation Physical Exam (PPE) for the 2025-26 academic year. This exam will ensure eligibility for all sports through June 30, 2026. The event also serves as the primary fundraiser for the Annandale Athletic Training Program, which relies entirely on donations to cover essential medical supplies and equipment. Your support makes a tremendous difference for our athletes and trainers!

Appointments will run from 5:30 to 7:30pm, and slots are expected to fill quickly, so don’t wait. Walk-in exams are $60; however, if you pre-register, the cost is reduced to $50. Students can pre-register here. Email Ryan Hughes with any questions. Thank you for supporting our student-athletes and helping ensure a healthy, successful season ahead!

Save the Date! June 23 - Annandale High School Golf Tournament! Get ready to hit the greens! The Annandale High School Golf Tournament is back and set for Monday, June 23, at 8:30am at Chantilly National Golf & Country Club. This annual event is a fantastic opportunity to play, sponsor, or support while benefiting Annandale Athletics. Registration opens soon, so start gathering your team! For details on sponsorship opportunities or to learn more, visit the Atoms Booster Club Golf Tournament page.

News from the PTSA

Join the PTSA! 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 by filling out the online Membership Form. For more information about membership visit the Annandale PTSA website.

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. 

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.