Annandale Community Insider - May 25

Annandale Students, Families, and Community,

Last week, I shared how high expectations and strong instruction are transforming student outcomes at Annandale. This week, I want to spotlight a program that truly embodies that vision: AVID—Advancement Via Individual Determination.

AVID is an elective class designed to help students—particularly those from traditionally underserved backgrounds—prepare for and succeed in college. Through a combination of academic support, tutoring, and personalized guidance, AVID equips students with the resources needed to thrive in rigorous courses and fosters a deep awareness of the value of higher education and the opportunities it provides.

At Annandale, overall enrollment has surged over the past five years. In 2020, 91 students were enrolled in AVID; today, that number stands at 246—a 170% increase. Moreover, the number of seniors participating has grown four-fold, from just 25 in 2020 to 100 this year.

Our AVID students are not only contributing to the growth in our SOL and IB scores, but they are also gaining admission to top-tier universities. Annandale AVID alumni are attending 28 colleges and universities across the country—including UVA, Virginia Tech, Columbia, and the University of Chicago. But just as important as where they’re going is how they are getting there: with confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging.

At its heart, AVID reflects the shared belief that every student—regardless of background—deserves the opportunity to rise to their full potential. That belief is what drives our work at Annandale, and it is why programs like AVID continue to thrive. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about our AVID program, please contact our AVID Coordinator, Laura Wells, 

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 through 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

Now through May 28 - Senior Exams
May 26 - Memorial Day (No School)
May 28 - Senior Picnic
May 28 - PTSA Pantry Distribution, 3:30pm
May 29 - Final Late Bus Day
May 29 - All Athletes End-of-Year Celebration, 6pm
May 29 - Senior Sunset, 7pm
May 30 - Senior Awards Ceremony, 10:00am
June 2 - Cap and Gown Distribution
June 2 - Graduation Walks
June 2 - Athletic Physical Exams, 5:30pm
June 2 - Rising 9th Grade Activities/Athletics/Clubs Night, 6pm
June 3 - Graduation Rehearsal
June 4 - Early Release, 10:25am
June 4 - Graduation, 2pm

Now through May 28 - Senior Exams: Seniors will take their Senior Exams during their regularly scheduled class periods now through May 28. Here is the full exam schedule: May 27: R1 & R3; May 28: W2.

May 26 - Memorial Day (No School): All schools and offices will be closed on Monday, May 26, for the Memorial Day holiday. Learn about the history of Memorial Day. See the complete school year calendar.

May 28 - Boundary Review Community Meeting, 5-8pm: As part of the FCPS comprehensive school boundary review process, FCPS is hosting a series of regional meetings to gather input from families, staff, and community members. Annandale High School will host the Region 6 boundary review meeting on Wednesday, May 28, from 5:00–8:00pm in the cafeteria. This is an opportunity to learn more about the review process, ask questions, and share your perspective. Childcare and interpretation services will be available. Registration is not required, but it is encouraged to help with planning. Visit the FCPS Boundary Review webpage for more details.

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.

June 2 - Physical Night: Get your Athletic Pre-Participation Physical Exams on Monday, June 2, Annandale High School will host an opportunity for student athletes to receive a complete pre-participation physical exam that will be valid for all sports for the 2025-26 academic year, until June 30, 2026. This event will serve as the primary fundraiser for the Annandale Athletic Training Program, we thank you for your support and donation! 

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.

June 2 - Rising 9th Grade Activities/Athletics/Clubs Night: The Activities Office will be hosting an information night for rising 9th grade Activities/Athletics/Clubs Night on June 2 at 6:00pm in the main gym. During this session, future Atoms will have the opportunity to visit tables and learn more about the incredible opportunities Annandale has to offer. A coach, director, or student representative for each program will be available to answer any questions. Email Brandon Sutphin if you have any questions.

June 4 - Graduation, 2:00pm: Graduation will be held on Wednesday, June 4, at 2:00am at Eagle Bank Arena. This is a momentous occasion for our students and families. In addition, this event is a celebration of our collective efforts to support the Class of 2025 over the past four years. School will be in session for underclassmen from 8:10-10:25am. Students should report to their PRIDE Time (period 11) teacher at 8:10am. During this time, students will have an opportunity to work with their teachers on any missing assignments and prepare for upcoming finals.

Awesome Atoms

Annandale Celebrates a Successful AVID Certification Visit! Annandale recently hosted its AVID Certification Visit, highlighting the continued growth and success of our AVID program, now serving over 260 students. Visitors saw how our students thrive through strong relationships, academic support, and a commitment to college readiness. The Class of 2025 impressed with scholarship awards and acceptances to top universities, while AVID teachers Laura Wells and Jeff Smith was praised for their deep connection with students and impactful teaching. Below are comments from students about our AVID program. We are so proud of our AVID community and excited for what’s ahead in 2025-26.

Exchange Students Bring Global Perspectives to Annandale: Thank you to our three exchange students, Robin Bonnelle and Ines Rabelle from France, and Sina Beckmann from Germany, who spent the past year studying at Annandale High School. They were active participants in the classroom, competed on sports teams, and got involved in clubs. We’re grateful for the positive energy they brought to our school community. Remember: Once an Atom, always an Atom!

CIEE Global Navigators 2025: 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!

Important Information

Medication Pickup: The school health room is reminding parents and guardians that all medication stored in the health room must be picked up no later than 12:00pm on Wednesday, June 11, 2025.  Medications left in the health room after that time will be discarded.  It is school policy that medications must be picked up by the parent or guardian, however, with parent or guardian written permission, a high school student may transport over-the-counter medications to and from the health room.  If you have any questions, please contact the School Health Aide Larry Cooper Sr. at 703-642-4110, or the Public Health Nurse Michelle Dierkes.

Required Immunizations for Rising Seniors: Additional immunizations are required for students entering grade 12. 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 healthcare providers. Additional resources are available on the FCPS Immunization Resources webpage and the Fairfax County Health Department. 

Class of 2025 Information

We are a little more than one week away from celebrating the graduating Class of 2025 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. 

Check out the latest Class of 2025 Newsletter that was sent out last week. It contains info about this week’s upcoming events as well as information about the tasks seniors must complete prior to picking up their cap and gown on Monday, June 2.

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.

May 28 - Senior Picnic, 9:35am: Immediately following the W2 exam, seniors will be released from their last day of school at 9:35am. Members of the Class of 2025 will gather in the Senior parking lot or Ossian Park to enjoy a light breakfast, and sign yearbooks. The event will end at 11:15am.

May 29 - Senior Sunset, 7pm: Senior Sunset will take place on May 29 from 7:00-9:00pm. Students are encouraged to come watch the sunset on the football field with music, drinks, and food to celebrate their senior year.

May 30 - Senior Awards Ceremony: Our annual Senior Awards Ceremony will be held on May 30 from 10:00-11:15am at Annandale High School. This ceremony provides us an opportunity to recognize seniors who have demonstrated outstanding achievements in each content area, as well as celebrate those seniors who have been selected for community based awards and scholarships. We will be communicating directly with the students and families of our award recipients. If you have questions or concerns, please email Viri Acosta.

June 2 - Graduation Walk, 1:30pm: We are thrilled to extend an invitation to participate in the Graduation Walk event on June 2, where students will have the wonderful opportunity to revisit their previous elementary school and stroll through the halls adorned in cap and gown, celebrating their achievements and the journey that has led them to this momentous occasion. Interested students must submit this form by May 28. Transportation will not be provided. All students who would like to participate must safely get to their school on their own. Note: Annandale Terrace graduation walk is 2:30pm.

June 2 - Senior Obligations & Cap and Gown Distribution: Seniors must pay all outstanding obligations, including Senior Dues, prior to receiving their cap and gown. Financial obligations can be paid online via myschoolbucks.com, by using the myschoolbucks mobile app, or in person on June 2. Here are instructions on how to access MySchoolBucks.com. All senior obligations must be paid before picking up their cap and gown. If you have any questions, please email Jeremy DeBoe, Finance Technician.

Students can pick up their cap and gown and senior gift on June 2 during their assigned times listed below.

• 10:00-11:00am - Last names A-L
• 11:30-12:30pm - Last names M-Z

Students enter through Door 11, at the front of the building, to the upper gym where they will turn in all equipment and supplies and pay any obligations in order to become eligible to graduate.

June 3 - Graduation Rehearsal: Graduation rehearsal will be held on the Annandale High School stadium field. Seniors who choose to participate in the Graduation Ceremony must attend graduation rehearsal during their assigned times below. 

• 10:00-11:00am - Last names A-L
• 11:30-12:30pm - Last names M-Z

Students should meet on the home side stadium bleachers where they will receive information about the ceremony.

June 4 - Graduation, 2:00pm: Graduation will be held on Wednesday, June 4, at 2:00am at Eagle Bank Arena. This is a momentous occasion for our students and families. In addition, this event is a celebration of our collective efforts to support the Class of 2025 over the past four years.

Opportunities

Yearbooks Are Here! Yearbooks are available for pick-up outside of room 262 before school, after school, and during all Red day lunches. Before school runs from 7:55-8:05am, and after school runs from 2:55-3:10pm. If you pre-ordered a yearbook, bring your student ID when you come pick up your book. In-person sales must show purchase confirmation or bring cash. Cost is $85.

NOVA Early Online College Fall 2025 Semester Registration: NOVA Early Online College (EOC) allows rising high school juniors and seniors the opportunity to take up to two tuition-free college courses. EOC courses for the fall semester take place Monday, September 22, through Tuesday, December 16, 2024. Students should register by Friday, July 25, at 5 p.m. Courses are asynchronous, online, and for college credit only. Thirteen courses are offered along with courses that fulfill the IT Technical Support Career Studies Certificate. EOC courses meet the requirements for most of NOVA’s associate degrees as well as being highly transferable as general education requirements for most colleges and universities. 

Student Bus Passes Offer Free Transportation All Year: Annandale High School students can get a Student Bus Pass SmarTrip card to ride the Fairfax Connector and Fairfax CUE buses for free! With the pass, fares are free from 5am to 10pm, seven days a week, all year. Learn more about the Student Pass. Complete the application and return it to our front office. Our students can ride Metrobus for free, in addition to the Fairfax Connector and City of Fairfax CUE. Visit the Fairfax County website for details and approved Metrobus routes. Complete the application and return it to Student Services. 

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

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

Student Testing Results Coming Soon: Throughout May and June, you will receive your child’s spring assessment results. If you aren’t sure what assessments your child took this year, there is a list of tests by grade level on the FCPS website. How the results are delivered depends on the test. Scores will be delivered in SIS ParentVUE or from the school or testing organization. Learn what to expect regarding assessment reporting practices and timelines. Visit FCPS’ website for additional information about how test results are reported to families. Individual test websites provide report translations and help for interpreting test results. Please contact us with any testing questions or for additional information about how we use test results to support student success.

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.

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.

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

PTSA Slate of Officers Announced! The PTSA Nominating Committee is pleased to announce the following slate of officer nominees for the 2025-2026 PTSA Executive Board. Please join us at the June 10 meeting to vote for the new PTSA Executive Board. The slate is as follows:

President: Angela Torres
Vice President, Programs: Sarah Henken
Vice President, Membership: Hanh McPherson
Treasurer: Sophorn Mao
Secretary: Jennifer Ellis

All Night Grad Celebration Volunteers Needed: Annandale High School’s All Night Grad Celebration is June 4 from 11:00pm-5:00am at Audrey Moore Rec Center! Parents can join the fun by volunteering to help! It takes a lot of volunteers to make this a successful night for our seniors. Please look at the sign-up and find a shift that works for you.

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.