Last week kicked off the start of our Spring Academic Assessments, beginning with International Baccalaureate (IB) testing. This week kicks off the start of Standards of Learning (SOL) testing.

As a reminder, we are implementing a new spring SOL test schedule for the 2024-2025 school year.  This new schedule will increase equity through SOL administration by allowing all students, regardless of accommodations needed, to test on the same day. It will also prevent students from losing valuable instructional time and the associated workload of makeup assignments. Additionally, it will offer time to provide remediation for student’s upcoming SOLs. 

Please see our testing information on the South Lakes website including calendars, presentation shared with PTSA on April 9, and parent notifications.

As a reminder, students can not use personal laptops to test. They must use an FCPS issued laptop. If they do not have one, we will have a limited number of loaner laptops available. Please encourage your student to bring their FCPS laptop fully charged on all test days.

This week is Teacher Appreciation Week, when we come together to celebrate the hard work and dedication of our staff. Every day, our teachers demonstrate a strong commitment to our priorities of relationships and support, high quality instruction, and strong collaboration - all in service to our students and families. With the support of the South Lakes PTSA, South Lakes Boosters, Leadership Class, and some community partners, we have organized events to show our appreciation for teachers and staff members. 

Meanwhile, the South Lakes Theatre Company brought the house down with their production of “Once Upon A Mattress.” The show entertained audiences with its catchy music, colorful sets, and standout performances. The talent of our amazing actors, musicians, technical crew, volunteers, and booster organization, coupled with the genius of artistry to bring all of this together by our director, Michael Viola, creates a rich environment for our students to shine and for our community to enjoy.  The performance was incredible!

We want to warmly encourage all parents and guardians to attend our upcoming PTSA meeting on Wednesday, May 14 at 7:00pm. Your participation is more important than ever. The PTSA is currently facing a critical challenge: we need new officers for the 2025–2026 school year. Without a full executive committee to lead and facilitate the amazing work being done, we risk having to pause PTSA operations next year. This would mean losing valuable programs such as the All Night Grad Party, PTSA Scholarships, and Teacher Appreciation events.

So far, we haven’t received enough volunteers to fill the necessary roles. If you have ever considered getting involved—even in a small way—now is the time. If you are curious about what’s involved or how much time it takes, please don’t hesitate to reach out to President Larry Howell at president@southlakespta.org 

Even better, come to the meeting and chat with the current Board in person. Your support can make all the difference!

With Gratitude,

Carlos Seward

We value your feedback. Share your observations, suggestions, questions and celebrations with me here.

Do You Drive Your Student to School? Reminder!

If you drive your student(s) to school,  please use our Kiss n’ Ride located at door 4, stadium-side of the building). During the morning arrival (7:30AM - 8:15AM), only staff and buses should be entering and exiting the flagpole-side of the building.  As the multiple signs indicate, there is  “NO STUDENT DROP OFF” at door 1 including on Seahawk Drive. This is to ensure the safety of all, students and staff. Your cooperation is most appreciated.

Last Chance for 2025-2026 Schedule “LEVEL” Change

Starting May 5, students may request a course level change for the 2025-26 school year. The request window will close on May 16..  

This will be your only opportunity to request a change in course level for next year. An example of a level change is English 10 to English 10 Honors. No elective changes will be made. Please reach out to your Counselor to request a change.

For more information, including how to reach your student's counselor, please visit the https://southlakeshs.fcps.edu/student-services.

Plan Now! Physicals for 2025-2026 Athletic Participation

New Physical Form for Athletics: A new law that becomes effective on July 1, 2025, requires students to submit to the school principal or designee a signed Preparticipation Physical Evaluation form completely filled in and properly signed, attesting that the student has received a physical examination, was found to be physically fit for athletic competition no more than 14 calendar months prior to the date on which the health care official signed the report, and that the student’s parents consent to the student’s participation.

The new physical form can be found here. We continue to encourage students and families to get their annual physicals in the months of May, June, and July, as this will ensure students’ physicals are valid through all seasons of the following school year.

SY2026 Required Immunizations for Rising Seniors

All students entering 12th grade are to receive one dose of Meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY) prior to the beginning of school.

To meet the MenACWY 12th grade requirement, the vaccination must be administered at age 16 or older. 

Please consider getting your child’s immunizations early so that they can attend school in the fall. Summer is a busy time for families and health care providers. As long as your child meets the age requirements listed above, they can be immunized at any time. Additional resources are available on the FCPS Immunization Resources webpage and the Fairfax County Health Department. 

Online Driving Permit Test Prep

Online Driving Permit Test Prep Offered by ACE  Nearly 35,000 students have been educated by FCPS ACE’s Driver Education program in the last decade, preparing them to be safe, responsible drivers. 

In Virginia alone, 17% of all accidents are caused by distracted driving, amounting to over 21,000 accidents that could have been avoided. The Virginia DMV reports that driver education plays a significant role in safer driving by young drivers, with some studies showing that it can reduce accident rates by up to 20%. 

ACE now offers one of the only online permit test prep courses authorized by the state of Virginia. Learn more about driver education and FCPS ACE Driver Education courses.

Summer Extravaganza

Discover Exciting Summer Learning Activities and Ideas

Join the FCPS Summer Extravaganza on Saturday, May 10, 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m., at Woodson High School! During this free event, participants can engage in educational and enrichment activities designed to inspire curiosity and growth.

Learn about summer programs for children and resources from community and business partners. Enjoy face painting, touring a fire truck, student performances, and other fun activities. For more information, visit the Summer Extravaganza webpage.