Student Attendance Reporting Procedures
To ensure accurate attendance records and minimize disruptions, please adhere to the following guidelines:
Important Reminders:
- All absence reports (calls, emails, and notes) must be submitted by a parent or legal guardian. Student reports will not be accepted.
- Handwritten notes from parents/guardians are also acceptable.
- Please leave a detailed message if calling; all messages are checked frequently.
Attendance Office Contact Information:
- Email: southcountyhigh.attendance@fcps.edu
- Phone: 703-446-1625
- OPTION 1- ALL DAY ABSENCE
- OPTION 2- LATE ARRIVAL
- OPTION 3- EARLY RELEASE
Important Upcoming Dates
-
05/05- 05/09- Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week
-
05/07/25- National School Nurse Day
-
05/09-25- School Communicators Day
-
05/12/25- 5:00pm-9:00pm- SCHS Band Chipotle Fundraiser
-
05/20/25- South County Athletic Booster Club's 18th Annual Golf Classic
-
05/26/25- Memorial Day (Holiday)
-
06/04/25- 7:00pm- Class of 2025 Graduation (Eagle Bank)
Message from Dr. Khoshaba
Greetings, SoCo families,
As we step into the vibrant month of May, it's true what they say—"April showers bring May flowers." This season symbolizes growth, renewal, and the final stretch of our school year journey. With blooming possibilities all around us, May offers a perfect time to reflect on our accomplishments, celebrate our progress, and stay focused as we head into the homestretch. Let's embrace the energy of this month with gratitude, determination, and unity as we support one another through these final weeks of school. With that spirit in mind, here are a few important updates and celebrations to carry us through May together.
For the audio version of this newsletter, which does not include all the content, please click here.
Student and Staff Belonging
Encore-Worthy Excellence: SoCo’s Spotlight on the Arts
South County continues to be a proud home for the arts, with an outstanding music program that reflects the dedication and talent of our students and staff. Our award-winning Band, Choir, and Orchestra programs have earned top honors, including the prestigious Blue-Ribbon Award and multiple Honor Band State Championships. Most recently, we are thrilled to congratulate Elena Kim, Vanya Balakersky, and Yasha Balakersky for their exceptional representation of South County at the All-Virginia Band Event this past weekend—way to go, Stallions! From curtain calls to concert halls, South County students always hit the right note.
Signed, Sealed, SoCo Proud: A Championship Chapter Begins
This past week, we had the distinct honor of celebrating a milestone moment for several of our remarkable Stallion athletes as they signed their letters of intent to continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level. It was more than just a ceremony—it was a sendoff, a celebration of years of dedication, sweat, early mornings, and late-night practices. Watching athletes from multiple sports commit to their next teams was like witnessing the lighting of a torch—passing on the pride of SoCo as they prepare to blaze new trails beyond our fields, courts, and tracks. We couldn’t be prouder of their achievements, and we’ll be cheering them on every step of the way. Once a Stallion, always a Stallion!
SoCo Sports Shine: Success on the Field and in the Goals
It was another stellar week for SoCo athletics, with our Girls Soccer, Boys Lacrosse, and Boys Soccer teams all showcasing their skills. The Girls Soccer team kicked it into high gear with a tightly fought win over McLean, while the Boys Lacrosse squad celebrated Senior Night by “sticking” to their strategy, claiming a well-deserved victory over Fairfax in a come-from-behind win, 7-6. Meanwhile, both the Baseball and Boys Soccer teams scored big on their Senior Nights with exciting wins—talk about batting a thousand with goal-den performances across the board!
Step Into the Spotlight: "A Chorus Line" Takes Center Stage at SoCo
Come out to see ‘one singular sensation’ when South County takes on the teen edition of the Tony Award winning musical “A Chorus Line.” The only shows left will be at 7:00pm on May 9 and 10. Tickets are on sale now for $15 admission (students & senior citizens $10) at our website https://www.schstheatre.com/ OR at
https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/52832304/a-chorus-lineteen-edition-lorton-south-county-high-school-theatre. Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic, excitement, and one big dance that will leave you inspired—this is one show you won’t want to miss!
High Quality Instruction
The Point of the Lesson: Triangles Take Center Stage
In one of the most engaging and imaginative math lessons we’ve seen, Ms. DeBeauville and Mr. Gibson brought geometry to life with a triangle-themed experience that truly hit every angle. Their classroom transformed into a hub of hands-on learning, featuring everything from crafting intricate triangle quilts to a spirited "Tri-venger Hunt" and the laugh-filled "Tri Not to Laugh" challenge. The creativity and energy infused into this lesson made abstract concepts tangible and fun, proving that math is anything but boring. With educators like these, it’s no wonder our students are sharp as ever when it comes to triangles!
School Culture
Stallion Springs & Handmade Things: A Craft Show to Remember
The SoCo Spring Craft Show, proudly hosted by our dedicated and ever-creative PTSO, was nothing short of spectacular! What started as a showcase for talented local crafters quickly blossomed into a full-blown community celebration. From beautifully handcrafted goods to live music that set the perfect backdrop, the event had something for everyone—including a rock-climbing wall that took the excitement to new heights—literally! Families, students, and community members came together to support small businesses, enjoy great entertainment, and connect in the warm, welcoming spirit that defines South County. With so many hands and hearts behind the scenes, it's clear: when the SoCo PTSO puts on a show, they raise the bar every time!
Teaching with Heart: Honoring Our Heroes in the Classroom
In 2025, public school teachers are more than educators—they are mentors, advocates, innovators, and daily difference-makers. They navigate evolving technology, diverse student needs, and ever-changing expectations with unwavering commitment and compassion. Teachers inspire curiosity, build confidence, and provide stability and connection in a world that can feel uncertain. This week, and every week, we honor their tireless work and thank them for being the heart of our schools and the hope of our future.
Staff Spotlight
Speaking of the heart of our school, this week’s spotlight shines brightly on one of our best and most inspiring teachers, Mr. Chiprut. A dedicated educator for 23 years, with 19 of those years spent at SoCo, Mr. Chiprut’s passion for history began during his college years, when he realized that teaching would allow him to spend his days exploring, discussing, and sharing the subject he loves. Over the past two decades, he has made it his mission to bring history to life in the classroom. One of the greatest rewards of his work is hearing students say, “I didn’t think I could be good at history, or school, and now social studies is my favorite subject.” Outside the classroom, Mr. Chiprut is an avid collector of comic books, enjoys playing video games, and loves watching TV shows and movies. He also finds time to read and stay immersed in the stories that first inspired his love of learning. We are most fortunate to have passionate teachers like Mr. Chiprut in Stallion Country!
 |
Club Corner
The Bollywood Dance Team celebrates South Asian culture through dance and welcomes anyone interested in learning and participating. Our club meets regularly to learn and practice student-written choreography inspired by Bollywood style dancing. Our biggest event every year is International Night, for which we prepare regularly in the months prior, to create a medley of dances that represent the various sides of Bollywood dance. These practices are our favorite part of being in the club as they are filled with high energy, laughter, and a sense of community. We’ve also performed at events over the summer, and we’re always excited to share our traditions with new members and audiences!
Wishing everyone a wonderful weekend filled with relaxation, reflection, and fun—take time to recharge and enjoy the simple pleasures!
Kambar
#StandStrong
Staff Appreciation
The SCHS leadership students are celebrating Staff Appreciation this week due to testing next week. From now until May 5 you can purchase a balloon bouquet for any of the SCHS staff members. Bouquets are $5 on MSB.
How to order: 1. Purchase bouquet(s) on MSB
- Complete the google form linked below
- Leadership will create and deliver your order to staff members https://forms.gle/x2558ZjYoDC7LXni8
Hello South County Families!
We are celebrating our amazing teachers and staff with an appreciation lunch again this year! The PTSO will be catering a BBQ feast for all staff on May 9th and we could use some help with supplies, drinks, sides and a candy dessert bar. Please help us thank our teachers and show our appreciation for all that they do for our students!
Drop-offs can be made to Karen McGuinness @ 9202 Silverose Ct. between 4/29 and 5/7 or to the HS between 5/5 and 5/7. Please drop perishables to Karen McGuinness.
Please reach out @ karenmcguinness6@gmail.com or 571-332-8863 with any questions.
Thank you!
Karen McGuinness & Kasey Hill
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60B0548AFA82DA6FE3-56504327-staff
From the Testing Office
Parents – WE STILL NEED YOU!!!! - AP Testing Parent Volunteers
The Testing Office still needs parent volunteers to fill in the final spots to support Advanced Placement (AP) Testing from May 5 through May 16. Volunteers would support the Student Services staff in checking in students, distributing tests, and supporting test security during the exams. To avoid conflicts of interest, we ask that parents do not volunteer during their own student’s exam. Please go to the Sign-Up Genius linked below to volunteer:
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60B0A4FABA82FA0FE3-56261616-aptesting
SOL and AP Testing Calendars
The calendars for both AP testing and SOL testing are available on the SCHS web page through the Student Services section. Some students with special testing accommodations may test earlier than the posted dates and will be contacted via email. The next date with a modified bell schedule will be May 12.
SCHS Tech Team
With the end of the school year rapidly approaching we wanted to take a moment to remind you all of a few things prior to laptop turn in at the end of the school year. Any of the below items that are not followed may incur a charge on your account.
- Please be sure to remove all stickers from your laptop including any adhesive residue.
- Please clean off any and all writing that may be on your laptop.
- Please have your school issued charger with you it will have HP written on the back it all other chargers will not be accepted.
- Seniors may not go on the senior trip or attend prom until all debts are cleared, and they will not receive their cap and gown until their senior dues are paid.
-
The senior trip to Kings Dominion is June 2nd. Tickets are on sale on MSB until May 9th, and they will be on sale during lunch for $60 cash May 5-9 in the cafeteria.
- The senior meeting covered all information pertaining to upcoming senior requirements and events. There is a PDF attached of the slides, and they are also available in the Class of 2025 Schoology page.
Presentation Attached
SCHS Theatre’s “A Chorus Line: Teen Edition” running May 1st-May 10th!
Come out to see ‘one singular sensation’ when South County takes on the teen edition of the Tony Award winning musical “A Chorus Line.” The show will be at 7:00pm on 5/1, 5/2, 5/3, 5/9 and 5/10 with a 2:00pm matinee on 5/3. Tickets are on sale now for $15 admission (students & senior citizens $10) at our website https://www.schstheatre.com/ OR at
https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/52832304/a-chorus-lineteen-edition-lorton-south-county-high-school-theatre
BASKETBALL SUMMER CAMP 2025
Basketball Summer Camp 9:00 am-3:00 pm
Session 1 (June 16, 17, 18 &20)
Session 2 (June 23-27)
Complete this form Here
Register and Pay here
Spring Concession Stand Sign Up
Spring Sports are underway and we NEED your help! In order for us to keep our concession stand up and running we need volunteers to assist us on game nights. The revenue generated through concession serves as the SCHS Athletic Booster Club's primary source of funding. The money earned goes right back to the sports teams to cover the costs of equipment, uniforms, and more! Any family can volunteer! You do not need to have a student participating in Sports to make an impact! Visit the link below or the QR code and consider helping us out one night! Your assistance is greatly appreciated.
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090B48ABAB22A5FD0-55500344-2025
SAVE THE DATE!!
The South County Athletic Booster Club's 18th Annual Golf Classic is Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at Laurel Hill Golf Club!
Registration and sponsorship options can be found on our website: https://birdease.com/schsgolf
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.
Tech Adventure Camp
Tech Adventure Camp (Grades K-5) and CTE Summer Academy (Grades 6-11) are open to all students. Code Up Grant funding enables participating Code Up schools to provide tuition-free access to 10 students per school this summer. Remaining spaces will be released on a first come, first served basis. If interested, complete this CTE Summer Program Interest Form as soon as possible. Paid registration continues to be available from the websites linked below.
More information:
AWARENESS
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
People with ancestral roots in Asia and the islands of the Pacific have been integral to the story of America. In 1992, May was designated Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month to celebrate their heritage and contributions.Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.
|
Jewish American Heritage Month
May is a national month of recognition of the history of Jewish contributions to American culture, acknowledging the diverse achievement of the Jewish community in the U.S. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.
|
National School Nurse Day
National School Nurse Day is Wednesday, May 7. It is a day to recognize the many contributions that school nurses make to student health and learning.
FCPS appreciates the role of School Public Health Nurses (PHNs) for their contribution to the health and welfare of all our students. Professional school nurses support the needs of students through their delivery of healthcare, contributions to local school communities, and promotion of safety, prevention, and wellness throughout the year. They are advocates who bridge healthcare and education by supporting student health and readiness to learn. School nurses are essential to our community and work tirelessly to make a positive impact in the lives of their students.
Please join us in thanking the PHNs for their hard work and dedication to FCPS students.
|
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
|
