Annandale Community Insider - April 27

Annandale Students, Families, and Community,

Friday marked the official start of SOL testing, and IB exams will begin this week. As part of our preparation efforts, we hosted nearly 200 students at the first of three "Super Saturday" sessions this past weekend. During this time, students received practice, support, and strategies to help them succeed on their upcoming tests. A big thank you to our teachers for providing their support, and to our students and families for prioritizing attendance. We are excited to continue offering "Super Saturday" sessions on May 3 and May 10 to ensure all students feel confident and prepared. See below for each subject’s review date.

As we continue supporting students through this busy testing season, we also have an important opportunity for families to get involved. With the start of IB exams this week, we are seeking volunteers to help proctor during testing. Our volunteer proctors help us ensure our teachers can remain in the classroom, where they are needed to continue supporting student learning. No special training is required. If you are able to help, please sign up here. Questions can be directed to Linda Bradshaw, our IB DP Coordinator.

Our support extends beyond preparing students for SOL and IB exams. Last week, we concluded our W4 check-ins, during which teachers met individually with each student to review their grades and help them prioritize their work as we move into the final stretch of the school year. These meaningful conversations are another way we are helping students stay focused, motivated, and ready to finish strong.

Finally, we are also looking forward to celebrating Teacher Appreciation Week from May 5-9. Our teachers work tirelessly to support every student, and this is a wonderful opportunity to show our gratitude. To support these efforts, we are seeking $5-$10 gift cards to any establishment of your choice. If you are able to donate, please drop off gift cards at the Main Office or purchase them via Amazon and have them shipped directly to Annandale High School. We also encourage you or your student to send a personal note of thanks to your student’s teachers. Knowing they are making a difference is truly the most meaningful gift they can receive.

Have a great week, Atom Nation. As always, please reach out if you have any questions.

Shawn DeRose, Principal

Important Dates

April 30 - Learner's Permit Testing
May 2 - Senior Decision Day
May 2 - School Lunch Hero Day
May 2 -  Spring Jubilee, 3:15pm
May 1-3 - Spring Musical, 7pm
May 5-9 - Teacher Appreciation Week
May 6 - Realtor Open House, 9:30am
May 7 - Parent Orchestra Concert
May 8 - Orchestra Concert & Banquet, 7pm
May 9 - Prom, 8pm
May 10 - Community Yard Sale/Craft Fair, 9am
May 12 - PTSA Online Auction Opens
May 13 - Band Concert, 7pm
May 14 - PTSA Pantry Distribution, 3:30pm
May 14 - Partners for Safe Teen Driving, 6:30pm
May 15-16 - Senior Survey
May 15 - Senior Art Show, 6pm
May 20 - ASVAB Testing
May 20 - PTSA Meeting, 7pm
May 22-28 - Senior Exams

April 29 - 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.

April 30 - Learner's Permit Testing: We’re excited to offer students the opportunity to take their learner’s permit test at Annandale High School on Tuesday, April 30 at 3:15 PM in Room 43, with additional testing dates available on Thursday, May 8, Wednesday, May 14, and Tuesday, May 20. To obtain a learner’s permit in Virginia, students must pass a vision screening and a two-part knowledge exam covering traffic signs, motor vehicle laws, and safe driving techniques. While the exam is typically taken at DMV customer service centers, students can complete it conveniently at school. Students are encouraged to review practice tests online to prepare. Register at bit.ly/AHSPermitTesting, and if you have any questions, please email Ms. McManus.

May 1-3 - ATC Presents Little Shop of Horrors: In this charmingly tongue-in-cheek musical comedy, the meek floral assistant Seymour Krelborn stumbles across a new breed of plant he names "Audrey II" - after his coworker crush. This R&B-singing carnivorous plant promises unending fame and fortune to the down and out Krelborn as long as he keeps feeding it, BLOOD. Enjoy the doo-wop style songs led by the Skid Row street urchins, bright sets and costumes, live pit, and a neighborhood of zany characters! Recommended for Grade 5 and up. Tickets can be purchased at annadaletheatre.org.

May 2 - Senior Decision Day: Annandale will celebrate National Decision Day on May 2. At this event, we will celebrate our seniors and the different paths they will take after graduation, whether they have decided to attend a 4-year college, community college, join the military, workforce, or take a gap year. The celebration will be held during all lunch periods in the senior courtyard, where students can enjoy snacks, music, and take pictures with their peers.

May 2 - Spring Jubilee: We are thrilled to host our Second Annual Spring Jubilee and welcome the Thomas Jefferson community for a day full of exciting athletic events! Our Spring Jubilee is a celebration of all our spring sports teams, and we invite you to come out and support both schools amazing student-athletes. The event will take place in multiple locations across the Annandale campus starting at 3:15pm. Tickets are $5 for students and $7 for adults. Concessions will be available and a Kona Ice Truck will be on site to help you stay cool!

May 3 & 10 - Super Saturday: 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: 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.

May 5-9 - Teacher Appreciation Week. Seeking $5-$10 Gift Card Donations: This year, Teacher Appreciation Week is from May 5-9. 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 2. 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 10 - Community Market & Yard Sale – Vendor Spots Still Available! Join us on Saturday, May 10 from 9:00am-2:00pm in the Annandale High School front parking lot for a PTSA-hosted Community Market and Yard Sale! Whether you’re an artist, baker, crafter, or student entrepreneur, this is a great opportunity to showcase your work and connect with the community. Vendor spaces start at just $20 for a single spot, or $10 for FCPS students. Email AHSPTSAVPPrograms@gmail.com to reserve a spot!

Awesome Atoms

Exchange Student Named AYA Student of the Month! Big congrats to Annandale exchange student, Robin Bonnelle for being named Academic Year in America’s (AYA) Student of the Month and receiving the Trailblazer Grant! Originally from France, Robin has truly made the most of his time here—embracing new experiences, building cross-cultural connections, and making a lasting impact on the Annandale community. He has taken on challenging classes, earned top grades, and shown incredible dedication. Robin also joined the wrestling team with zero experience and gave it his all, showing real grit. He’s active in Scouts and has jumped into outdoor adventures like skiing, hiking, and camping. On top of that, he has been a regular at cultural events, always eager to learn and explore. Way to go, Robin!

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.

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.

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.

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

Opportunities

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!

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.

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.

May 20 - 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 May 20, so sign up today! For questions, see Ms. Acosta, College & Career Specialist. Sign up to take the ASVAB today!

News from Student Services

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener Reports Available: Students in grades 3-12 took the SEL Screener during the month of March. The screener provides information on their SEL skills like achieving goals, understanding and managing emotions, establishing and maintaining relationships, and making responsible decisions. Individual student SEL Screener results are available to families in the Documents section of SIS ParentVUE. For families who do not have an active ParentVUE account, results will be sent via postal mail. For support in understanding your student’s results or for ideas on how to support them at home, please review the Family Guide or reach out to your student’s counselor with any questions.

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 fourth 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. 

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! June 2 - 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.