Annandale Community Insider - May 11

Annandale Students, Families, and Community,

Happy Mother’s Day! Today, we celebrate all the mothers and mother figures who have impacted our lives. I hope you are able to celebrate in some way with the special people in your life.

This past week we celebrated Teacher Appreciation Week. Thank you to all for the generous donations of gift cards, breakfast items, and volunteer time. Your contributions made the week truly special. I could not think of a staff that is more dedicated or more deserving of the celebration than the one we have here at Annandale.

As I think about all of the ways our staff goes the extra mile, I am incredibly grateful for their relentless commitment to the success of our students. Let me share just some of the ways our staff goes above and beyond in order to support our students’ needs.

PRIDE Time: Our embedded intervention period, held on White days, uses data to identify students in need of academic support and provides them additional time to practice the skills needed to gain mastery.

After School Academic Program (ASAP): This after school program supports a students’ academic success and prepares them for upcoming end of course assessment and/or state required SOL test. 

Super Saturdays: Super Saturdays are an additional SOL support our teachers provide students in preparation for an upcoming SOL or IB exam the Saturday prior to testing.

Responsive SOL Retake Remediation: PRIDE Time 4.5 is our most responsive PRIDE Time, during which students receive targeted instruction to support them in preparing to retake an SOL.

W4 Academic Check Ins: Multiple times throughout the year, advisory teachers have one-on-one conversations with each student. These W4 check ins are an opportunity to build a caring and trusting environment for all students. Teachers recently held one-on-one check-ins with each student, reviewing their current grades, and helping them create a plan to end the year strong.

These efforts reflect just a small part of the dedication our staff brings to Annandale every day. Their focus on high quality instruction and supporting our students is what makes our school community so special. As we head into the final stretch of the year, I am so proud of the work we are doing together to help every student finish strong.

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

Shawn DeRose, Principal

Finish Strong!

End of Year Attendance Requirements: The last day of school for underclass students is Wednesday, June 11. With SOL and IB testing in full swing, there is still much going on in our classrooms. Teachers and teams are continuing to plan high quality instruction that will prepare students to be successful not only on final exams, but in the coming years. In some cases, students are working on certifications or other requirements for graduation. All students are expected to attend school each day to complete these activities and finish the year strong.

June 5-11, school will be held from 8:10-11:25am. During this time, students will complete their end of course exams. These culminating activities assess students’ mastery of the standards and skills they have been learning throughout the year.

Final Exams: In each class, the final exam or culminating activity counts for 10% of a student’s grade, regardless of the impact on the final grade. Per FCPS policy, a student whose absence from the final examination or activity is unexcused will receive an F for that examination. Exceptions to this must be approved by the principal. Final exams are not eligible for retakes.

It is important for students to recognize the impact their final exams will have on their grades, and take steps to prepare so they can do their best. In W4 Advisory, we held one-on-one check-ins with each student, reviewing their current grades, and helping them create a plan to prepare.

Now - May 30 - SOL and IB Testing: SOL and IB has begun! Here is the link to the detailed IB Testing calendar with arrival time and test duration. Note: IB does not offer make-up exams. SOL testing will continue through May 30. Check out the detailed testing calendar. Students and families receive email notification of test schedules. Students will also receive email reminders the day before their scheduled test. Please encourage students to check their email to find their test information. If you have any questions about your student’s testing schedule, please contact Meg Anderson.

Important Dates

May 12 - Guitar Concert, 7pm
May 12 & 20 - Dance Team Clinics
May 13 - Band Concert,7pm
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
May 23 - Student of the Month Celebration
May 23 - Broadway Desserts, 7pm
May 26 - Memorial Day (No School)
May 27 - All Athletes Celebration, 6pm
May 28 - PTSA Pantry Distribution, 3:30pm
May 29 - Senior Edmentum Enrollment
May 29 - Final Late Bus Day
May 29 - All Athletes End-of-Year Celebration
May 29 - Senior Sunset, 7pm
May 30 - Senior Awards Ceremony, 10:00am

May 12 - Guitar Concert, 7pm: The Annandale High School Guitar Ensembles will present a concert of solo and ensemble performances. We are exploring music from around the world featuring performances of music from Japan, Russia, Spain , Mexico, Sweden, and the USA. Please come out and enjoy an evening of guitar music and support your Annandale HS guitar program.

May 13 - Band Concert, 7pm: The Annandale High School Bands will present their final concert of the year, combining forces in a musical celebration called Al Fresco! The Percussion Ensemble, Beginning Band, Symphonic Band, and Wind Ensemble offer fresh takes on marches and band classics such as “Fairest of the Fair,” “The Florentiner,” “Flight of the Thunderbird,” and “Exaltation.”  The Wind Ensemble will also premiere a new student composition by senior Brian Bernard called “In Another Life.” The concert is free, and we welcome all our Annandale friends and families to come support our talented band students, most especially our graduating seniors.

May 14 - Partners for Safe Teen Driving: To get your driver’s license in Virginia, you must successfully pass the classroom portion of driver education. You must also attend a 90-minute parent-teen traffic safety program, Partners for Safe Teen Driving, or PSTD, with a parent/guardian. Annandale High School is hosting our final PSTD presentations on May 14. It is free to students enrolled in Health & PE 10 at Annandale HS and begins at 6:30pm in the auditorium. You must attend with a parent/guardian, arrive ON TIME, and remain the duration of the presentation for your attendance to be verified. If you have any questions, please contact Lizzie McManus.

May 15 - Senior Art Show, 6pm: On Thursday, May 15 our Annandale Art seniors will showcase their portfolios in our annual Senior Art Show in Clausen Hall 6:00-8:00pm. This show is the capstone for IB Art and our level 4 art students in Studio Art, 3D Art, Digital Art, and Photography, and also includes our esteemed seniors in upper-level classes. Come check out the 18 individual exhibitions, celebrate our seniors, and, if you’re interested, purchase artwork! Many pieces include adult content, viewer discretion is advised. 

May 15 & 16 - Senior Survey: Each year, every senior is required to complete the Senior Survey. This is how Student Services celebrates the decisions of our graduates and ensures we have information on where to send final transcripts. Counselors will be coming to every senior English class on May 15 and 16 to help students complete the Senior Survey. Please do not complete the Senior Survey before these dates. Students absent on the day of their English class will receive an email notification about make-up days and times for filling out the survey. Note: It is required that all seniors complete the survey by May 25. Seniors who have not completed the survey will be unable to pick up their cap and gown for graduation. If you have questions or concerns, please email Viri Acosta.

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!

May 23 - Broadway Desserts, 7pm: Broadway Desserts will feature all five of the AHS Choirs performing songs from the stage and is a Broadway Review of sorts. Both group and individual acts will be featured from auditions held earlier in the semester. The students prepare the music, pick their costumes and coordinate their choreography for a fantastic evening of entertainment. Please join us on either Thursday, May 22 or Friday, May 23 at 7:00pm in Watson Auditorium! Get your tickets here!

Awesome Atoms

AHS Students Travel Abroad with CIEE! Join us in congratulating the following 15 outstanding students who have been selected to study abroad this summer through the Center for International Education and Exchange (CIEE) Global Navigator Partnership Program. Annandale High School is proud to share that our students have been awarded over $40,000 in scholarship funding to support their global learning experiences. This incredible opportunity allows students to expand their horizons, immerse themselves in new cultures, and gain invaluable global perspectives. AHS students will be traveling to several destinations including Australia, Costa Rica, the Czech Republic, the Dominican Republic, Germany, Italy, Spain, and South Korea. Our partnership with the Center for International Education and Exchange opens doors - and the world - to our students!

Tyler Miller Achieves Rare Choral Distinction
Tyler Miller reached a remarkable milestone in the 2024–25 school year, earning first chair in both the District Choir and All-Virginia Choir, and securing a spot in the National 11–12 Mixed Choir, which performed at the ACDA National Conference in Dallas this March. These honors highlight his outstanding vocal talent and dedication to choral music. In addition to his individual success, Tyler sings with the Annandale Singers, Men’s Chorale, and the Master Singers of the Fairfax Choral Society. Congrats Tyler!

AHS Celebrates Teacher Appreciation Week! This past week, we celebrated Teacher Appreciation Week by recognizing the incredible impact our teachers and staff have on our students and the entire Annandale community. We are so grateful for their dedication, passion, and daily efforts to make Annandale a welcoming and supportive place. A big thank you to our PTSA, Student Leadership, and administrative team for organizing thoughtful events throughout the week to show just how much we appreciate everything our educators do!

Annandale Journalism Project Showcase Celebrates Student Journalists: On Friday, mentors and student journalists gathered in the auditorium to celebrate the Annandale Journalism Project. Students who participated in the project had the opportunity to see their stories in print and recognize the mentors who supported them throughout the process. Special thanks were given to NPR’s Morning Edition host Michel Martin, Wall Street Journal alumni Jerry Seib, Barb Rosewicz, and John McKinnon, and The Washington Post’s Joe Davidson. During PRIDE Time, students worked with these experienced journalists to think through story ideas, conduct interviews, and write articles. They shared their appreciation for the guidance they received and the opportunity to grow as writers. Check out their stories here. Huge thanks to  Ms. Crowley for organizing such an incredible experience for our students.

PTSA Hosts Teacher Appreciation Breakfast: A huge thank you to our PTSA for hosting Wednesday’s Teacher Appreciation Breakfast in the Bistro! We are also grateful to the many families who donated breakfast items or contributed funds to make the event possible. Much of the delicious food was prepared by our very own AHS Culinary Arts program—thank you for making it such a special morning for our staff!

Important Information

SOL Retake Support: At Annandale, we are proud that we have many systems in place to support our students. To that end, when students do not pass their first-attempt SOLs, we double down on our academic support during class time and through PRIDE Time and ASAP to ensure students are successful with additional testing opportunities. Students who qualify for a retake (and their families) will receive an email with information about the retake date as well as the additional support we will provide. Please reach out to your student’s teachers with any questions you may have.

Personalized Student Progress Reports: Last week, families received a personalized student progress report email which includes students’ grades as well as any academic interventions or supports the student is receiving. In that email, we also provide ways families can support their student, including sitting with them to check and discuss their progress, as well as some guiding questions to talk about school. You can also view your student's grades by logging into SIS ParentVUE. If you have questions about a particular class, please reach out to the teacher. Their email address can be found on our staff directory or in ParentVue.

Class of 2025 News: Graduation is quickly approaching and we wanted to share important information and dates that will assist seniors, parents and community members in preparing and planning for the end of the school year. Last week we sent out important information in our latest Class of 2025 Newsletter. If you have any questions about upcoming senior events, please contact our senior class sponsors, Steven Zaret, Prarthana Purohit, Stefanie Kline, Stuart Converse or our senior class administrator, Jae Lee.

Opportunities

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.

News from Student Services

Wellness Wednesdays for Mental Health Awareness Month: There will be programming focused on wellness and self care strategies available to students on May 7, 14, and 21 in the Parent Resource Center during all lunch periods. A short lesson on a mental health topic will be presented (3-5 minutes) and then students will be welcome to engage in worksheets based on the topic, infographics, or to just utilize fidgets and other coping mechanisms in a calming space.

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 3-4pm 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.

May 12 & 20 – Dance Team Clinics: Interested in joining the Annandale Dance Team? Come to our clinics on May 12 and 20 in the dance room to get a head start! You'll learn key routines, techniques, and everything you need to know to prepare for tryouts in August. Questions? Contact Dorothy Edwards for more information.

May 29 - All Athletes End-of-Year Celebration: All Annandale student-athletes and their families are invited to our annual All Athletes End-of-Year Celebration on Thursday, May 29 at 6:00pm in the Annandale Auditorium. This special evening is dedicated to reflecting on the year, recognizing the hard work and achievements of our athletic programs, and celebrating the dedication of our student-athletes. Business casual attire is encouraged. Following the ceremony, guests are welcome to enjoy dessert and drinks in the auditorium lobby as we wrap up the season with some well-deserved mingling and celebration.

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.