Important Dates:
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August 14 at 1:00pm – Stallion Stampede (Open House): Freshmen orientation will occur in the auditorium (enter through door 15). At 2:00pm, enjoy a self-guided tour of classrooms and visit the Auxiliary gym (The Bubble) to check out the many clubs available this year.
- Official student schedules will be available in SIS ParentVUE on the morning of August 14.
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August 18 – First Day of School! The Senior Sunrise will take place at the stadium at 5:30am. Remember Seniors, it’s the last “first day” of high school that you’ll ever have, so please plan to attend. Doors open for students at 7:30 am, and class begins at 8:10 am. Students will start in 1st period – and yes, I can’t wait to see everyone’s bright, smiling faces!
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September 3 – Back-to-School Night: 6:00-7:30 pm
Message from Dr. Khoshaba
Greetings, Stallion Nation!
While the August heat is still going strong, we’re cooling things down with some exciting plans for the year ahead at South County! This week’s newsletter is a bit more detailed than usual as we focus on helping our families get fully prepared for the start of the school year. You'll find important information to help students and parents feel ready and confident. I promise—we’ll be back to sharing spotlights on our amazing students, staff, and school culture as soon as we’re up and running. Big things are ahead, and we can’t wait to get started!
School Culture
Before we get to the “things you need to know” portion of the newsletter, I want to share some exciting things about three special groups of Stallions.
First, this past June, our crew team hosted rising freshmen at their spring open house, offering an opportunity for prospective rowers to try out the sport and get more information. This past season, our rowers brought home two state championships with 10 gold medals and another 10 bronze states medals, going on to have all competing boats place top 20 in the Stotesbury Cup Regatta in Philadelphia––the largest high school regatta in the world––and having two boats place in the top 15 at the SRAA National Championships in New Jersey. Our crew team will host another open house in the fall for interested athletes, as well as fall on-the-water practices for anyone to try out rowing with no cost and no commitment! You can keep up with them and get more information on Instagram or Facebook at @rowsocorow or at sc-crew.org.
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Last week, I met with our new Hype Squad leaders, and the energy was off the charts—and into the stands! We laid the groundwork for an exciting year focused on strengthening school culture through spirited participation in events and spirit weeks. What makes this crew stand out is their commitment to inclusivity—they want to ensure that students from all corners of SoCo life, whether in clubs, on the field, or in the band room, know they’re part of the fun. The message is clear: at South County, everyone’s got a seat at the hype table!
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I want to extend a heartfelt congratulations to our Technology Student Association for representing South County at their National competition this past June—marking the first time in school history that our team has competed at the national level. These extraordinary students charted new territory, like pioneers blazing a trail into uncharted lands, proving that Stallion innovation and determination know no bounds. We are incredibly proud of their achievement and the example they’ve set for future competitors. Way to go, TSA!
Once a Stallion, Always a Stallion!
Please join me in congratulating our Director of Student Activities, Marvin Wooten, on his new position in Prince William County! This exciting opportunity allows him to work closer to home and serve at the high school where his children will one day attend—a meaningful next chapter both personally and professionally. We are deeply grateful for the energy, commitment, and heart Mr. Wooten brought to the South County community. His impact on our students, staff, and programs has been lasting, and while we will miss him, we wish him nothing but continued success and happiness in this next step. Thank you, Mr. Wooten, for everything!
Start Strong: Your Back-to-School Blueprint
- New Cell Phone Policy
As we kick off a strong school year, South County will implement a schoolwide cell phone policy designed to reduce distractions and help all students stay focused on learning. In line with FCPS guidelines and the new state-wide Phones Off, Learning On initiative, all phones and accessories (AirPods, earbuds, smart devices, etc.) must be turned off and stored away during instructional time—from the first bell at 8:10 AM until dismissal at 2:55 PM. The only exception is during lunch, while students are in the cafeteria. Phones must remain away during transitions, including to and from lunch.
Students using phones outside of permitted times will have them collected by staff, stored securely, and returned at the end of the school day.
By minimizing phone distractions, we’re creating more space for connection, focus, and academic growth. Thank you for your support as we build strong habits together!
- Apply Today for Free and Reduced Price Meals!
According to the Centers for Disease Control, eating breakfast at school is associated with better attendance rates, fewer missed school days, and better test scores. Students who qualify for free and reduced-price meals receive breakfast and lunch at school at no cost.
Families must complete the Free and Reduced-Price Meal application before the start of each school year. Approved applications may also qualify students for additional benefits. Access the application and view criteria on the Free and Reduced-Price Meals webpage
Students who were approved for free and reduced-price meals last year are eligible for the first 30 days of school this year (or until a new application is processed). Families should re-apply as soon as possible so eligible students continue to receive meals at no cost.
3. Support Your Child’s Success by Checking SIS ParentVUE
Access your student’s attendance records, grades, and assignments at any time with SIS ParentVUE. Parents/caregivers should receive an activation code when they register their child. Contact the school main office if you need a code.
Once you have activated a SIS ParentVUE account for an FCPS student, you will keep the same account until the student graduates. Information about students in the same family can be accessed through the same SIS ParentVUE account. You may also access SIS ParentVUE using an app on your iPhone, iPad, or Android devices.
Need help creating an account? This video walks through the steps. Find out more about SIS ParentVUE.
- Required Immunizations for Rising 12th Graders
Several immunizations are required for students entering 7th and 12th grades.
- All students entering 7th grade are required to receive one dose of each of the following immunizations before the beginning of school: Tetanus, Diphtheria, the Pertussis booster (Tdap), Meningococcal (MenACWY), and Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
- To meet the Tdap requirement, the vaccination must be administered at age seven or older.
- To meet the MenACWY requirement, the vaccination must be administered at age 10 or older.
- Parents/guardians may choose for their child to not receive the HPV vaccination. Documentation is not required to opt out of the HPV vaccination.
- All students entering 12th grade are required to receive one dose of the MenACWY vaccine before the beginning of school.
- To meet the MenACWY 12th grade requirement, the vaccination must be administered at age 16 or older.
As long as your child meets the age requirements listed above, they can be immunized at any time.
Where to Receive Immunizations
If your child needs an immunization, make an appointment with your family’s health care provider or one of the following clinics:
FCHD offers limited walk-in hours for immunization services on a first-come first served basis. Immunizations are also available by appointment.
- Inova Cares Back to School Pediatric Health Fairs provide children ages 5 and up with free school physicals and immunizations. Weekday and weekend clinics are available in July and August. These health fairs are for VA Medicaid or Uninsured Inova registered patients only. Appointments are required. Call 703-698-2550 to make an appointment. Bring vaccine records to the appointment.
Local immunization clinics and additional resources are available on the FCPS Immunization Resources webpage and from the FCHD.
5. Secondary Grading Updates
There will be new secondary grading policies in 2025-26. The goal of these changes is to increase consistency and clarity of grading practices. Learn about high school grading policy updates.
- Mark Your Calendars
Our Open House/Stallion Stampede is on Thursday, August 14, 2025, from 1:00 to 3:00pm. The event will start with an engaging dialogue with families and Student Services in the Auditorium, followed by self-guided tours to walk around the building, purchase spirit wear, and meet club sponsors and members. This is a “can’t miss” opportunity for all students and families new to SoCo.
Our Back to School Night is on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, from 6:00-7:30pm. This event will give parents the chance to visit their child’s teachers and learn about classroom policies and expectations. More information will be forthcoming in the weeks ahead.
- Student Rights and Responsibilities - Signature
Every year, FCPS requires parents/guardians to review, sign, and return the SR&R parent/guardian signature page acknowledging awareness of online access to and/or the opportunity to receive a printed copy of the FCPS SR&R Guide for Families.
When available, you can complete this requirement through your ParentVUE account in the Online Verification Account packet (see above). Upon login to your ParentVUE account, you will be prompted immediately to complete the SR&R signature page. Note that your name in the digital signature box must match the parent/guardian’s first and last name in SIS exactly before the signature will be accepted. The prompt will repeat in ParentVue until the signature page has been completed.
Students will review this year’s SR&R through their Advisory class (4th period) within the first two weeks of school.
We will make families aware of when these forms become available for your review and acknowledgement.
Please take a moment to review the FCPS Student Right and Responsibilities and log into ParentVUE to access and complete the SR&R Parent Signature Page.
If you would rather print out and sign the SR&R signature page, you can access it here. You can either return it to the main office or scan it and email to ccgibson@fcps.edu.
Additional information about the SR&R can be found on the FCPS website.
8. Bus Schedules
All parents/guardians should receive an eNotify email message directly from Fairfax County Public Schools Office of Transportation during the week of August 11, 2025. That email will provide details on the transportation intent process for families and how to access transportation assignments for students. Transportation assignments will become available that week, and changes may be made up to August 15, 2025.
All parents should access their SIS ParentVue account to ensure the Transportation Intent for each student is accurate. Through your SIS ParentVue account, you can see your child’s transportation assignments and intent on the “Student Info” tab. If adjustments are needed, click on “Edit Information” to make changes to your Transportation Intent. All students eligible for transportation services will be provided transportation unless the parent has stated ‘NO’ to the Transportation Intent.
Please contact the transportation office if you have any questions about accessing your student bus information.
Late buses will run on Wednesday afternoons and will start on Wednesday, September 3rd and the last day they run will be Wednesday, June 3. The late bus schedule will be posted outside of the Security Office and on the South County School page on Schoology. Students can also find their bus number on StudentVUE.
- Arrival and Dismissal Information and Traffic Patterns
Student Arrival and Dismissal
The building will be accessible to students starting at 7:30 am.
Dismissal is at 2:55 pm. Students are asked to leave the building at the end of the day unless they are being supervised by an adult. Any student who wishes to stay after school must be in the supervision of a staff member.
Traffic Patterns at Arrival and Dismissal
All drivers on campus are expected to follow all traffic/roadway laws and driving patterns established. This ensures the safety of all and maximizes the efficiency of our traffic pattern. Please follow all posted signs and directions of staff.
The first week of school, traffic is traditionally heavier than normal. In addition, because of our new Weapons Detection Screening (see below for details), students should anticipate a slightly longer period of time to enter the building. Therefore, please allow additional time if you are driving your student to school and/or your student is driving themselves to school.
South County High School strives to maintain positive relationships with our surrounding neighbors. To that end, we ask that everyone respects private property while walking to and from school. In addition, no neighborhoods or surrounding streets should be used as kiss-and-ride drop off or pick-up locations. This practice severely impacts our neighbors and their daily schedules.
Kiss and Ride Pickup
When dropping off or picking up students, please follow the designated traffic pattern outlined below. Do not park in any on-campus spots during arrival or dismissal if you are dropping off or picking up. We have two designated Kiss and Ride locations: one at Door 12 and another at the Bubble in the student parking lot. Both can be accessed from Laurel Crest Drive. To ensure a smooth and safe traffic flow, we ask that all student drop-offs occur only at these two locations. Stopping elsewhere in the lot has caused significant delays in the past.
Student Parking Information
We will accept parking applications from juniors and seniors. The application and process for purchasing can be found here. If after reading through all of the documents thoroughly you have questions, please email our Security Specialist, Tom Champ, at twchamp1@fcps.edu.
On August 14 during Stallion Stampede from 1-3 pm, passes will be available for pick-up in the library, which can be accessed through Door 1. At that time, students must resolve any outstanding fines and fees before they will be able to pay for their parking permit. If the obligation is a class fee, students can pay through MySchoolBucks. For all other obligations, payments must be made by cash or check in the Main Office (via Door 1).
All vehicles parked on school property during school hours must display a valid parking pass. Unauthorized vehicles may be ticketed and charged applicable fees.
Weapons Detection Screener
As part of the ongoing commitment to strengthening layered safety and security programs, Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) will continue to phase in a weapons detection system at all secondary schools this fall.
Please watch this video of the Superintendent’s conversation with students about the weapons screening system. The most important thing is to be sure that students have the right items removed from their bag before getting in line.
Items to be removed include:
- Three-ring binders
- Laptops
- Collapsible umbrellas
- Metal lunch boxes
- Metal pencil cases
- Metal glass cases
These items can remain in a student’s bags:
- Non-metal lunch boxes
- Books
- Planners
- Spiral notebooks and folders
- Cell phones
- Keys
- Non-metal pencil cases
Once the items are removed, students should walk to the shortest line and proceed. If the light turns red, they will be directed to a secondary screening to determine what may have alerted the system. Experience shows that the process becomes easier and more efficient every day. You can learn more about the system by watching this video and reading the Frequently Asked Questions on FCPS’ website. If you have additional questions, you can submit them online to the FCPS Chief of Safety and Security Office.
To ensure a safe and orderly entrance, we will open Door 1 beginning at 7:30am, and door 12 will open at 7:45am. No other doors are permitted to be entrances into our school.
We appreciate everyone’s cooperation and support in our shared commitment to maintaining a safe learning environment for us all.
- Chromebook Devices
South County High School provides students with equitable access to meaningful learning experiences and technology to support their learning. Each Stallion student will receive an FCPS-issued Chromebook to access dynamic resources and participate in learning tailored to the student’s individual needs. Loaner Chromebooks will only be available for students whose Chromebooks need repair.
Chromebooks will be distributed through students’ English classes beginning the 1st day of school.
For more about this initiative, please go to the FCPS website.
Please note that teachers reserve the right to require the Chromebook device to be used for certain assignments or assessments. Additionally, these devices are a requirement for standardized testing, including SOL exams and AP tests.
- Emergency Care Form and the Clinic
The goal of the clinic is to ensure that your child will enjoy a healthy and safe school year. To proactively plan, we ask that parents update the Emergency Care Form through SIS ParentVUE; there is a section for “Current Health Conditions” and “Current Medical Care Details” that will update the health information for the student.
If you need to drop off medication for your student, please fill out a new medication authorization form. This is required to be filled out annually.
Once school begins, medication can be dropped off any school day from 8am-3pm. Please read below for the updated medication guidelines that specify the amount and method of medication that can be dropped off.
If medication is needed at school or for any after FCPS sponsored activity (field trips, sports, band, drama, chorus, etc.), specific guidelines in accordance with the FCPS Medication Administration Regulation 2102 must be followed. A Medication Authorization form MUST be on file in the Health Room for any medication administered at school OR carried by student. Forms (for epinephrine, inhalers and medications) are available in the School Health Room or online.
- Medication Guidelines
To help ensure the safety of our medication administration management in Fairfax County Public Schools we will adhere to these guidelines:
- Any time you drop off or pick up a medication in the health room, a Medication Delivery/Pick Up Form will be completed and signed by both the parent/guardian and the School Health Aide or FCPS staff member. This form will document that all required authorizations are complete, and the number of pills or amount of medication accepted/returned. A copy of the form will be given to the parent/guardian and school administrator.
- Medications received will be verified to ensure the description of the medication on the container/packaging matches the medication in the container.
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All medications must be in the original pharmacy container. Over the counter (OTC) medications must be in an unopened original container. It will no longer be acceptable for parents/guardians to bring in refills from home and place them into the container currently in the health room.
- Only a 30-day supply of medications should be brought to school. No more than 25 tablets or pills of OTC medication should be brought to school.
- All requirements outlined in FCPS Regulation 2102, First Aid, Emergency Treatment and Administration of Medication for Students, continue to apply.
All Health Room forms can be found in the Online Verification Update Packet referenced under required forms. They are also below for your reference.
One additional form that is not available through the OVU packet is the Diabetes Medical Management Plan. That form can be found below.
- Breakfast and Lunch
Meal prices will remain the same as last year (as outlined above). The SoCo cafeteria will sell breakfast and lunch daily. If your student plans on purchasing food through the cafeteria, please be sure to load money on their meal account or bring cash. More information on FCPS Food Services (including payment options for meal accounts, daily menus, free and reduced meal programs, etc.) can be reviewed on the FCPS website.
Information on applying for Free and Reduced Lunch can also be found above under the forms section. Eligible families are encouraged to submit the Free and Reduced-Price Meal application before the first day of the 2025-26 school year. More information is on the FCPS website, including forms to apply for Free or Reduced Lunch and Consent to Share Information.
Dietary Accommodations for Students
The Office of Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) wants to emphasize that it has implemented a standardized process for dietary accommodations. This ensures that FCPS students receive safe and healthy food. The Dietary Accommodations information provides step-by-step guidance for families to follow to ensure safe and appropriate food is provided to their student(s). This guidance includes needing a Medical Dietary Accommodation Form to be signed by a Licensed Health Care Provider and forwarded to FNS. For students who need a milk substitute, the Milk Substitution Form signed by a Parent/Guardian must also be on file with FNS.
Forms are to be emailed to dietary.forms.fns@fcps.edu by parents/guardians. FNS Registered Dietitians on staff will then contact the family to begin planning safe meals for their student and place an alert on the student’s file at the register.
We’re excited for the year ahead and confident that 2025–2026 will be one of our best yet. As we continue Standing Strong for 20 Years, let’s build on our proud history with purpose, passion, and unity. Here’s to an outstanding school year together!
 Kambar
#StandingStrongFor20Years
SCHS Clinic- Medication Drop Off
The South County High School clinic will be open and available for medication drop off or any questions/concerns you may have on the following days and times:
Monday 8/11 from 1:00pm-3:00pm
Tuesday 8/12 from 1:00pm-3:00pm
Clinic will be closed on Wednesday 8/13 for staff training
Thursday 8/14 during Stallion Stampede
Friday 8/15 from 11:00am-1:00pm
We will also be available on the first day of school or by appointment.
We will accept any self-carrying medication authorizations for epinephrine and/or inhalers during these times or via email to the Public Health Nurse
To make an appointment or email forms, please contact the Public Health Nurse Grace Matthews at gmatthews@fcps.edu
South County High School Athletic Booster
We’re excited to announce the official launch of the new South County High School Athletic Booster Club website:
👉Booster Club Website
This new platform is your central hub for all things from memberships to volunteering, spirit wear to event info — everything you need is just a click away.
🎟️ Annual Athletic Passes Are Now on Sale! Visit the Membership section of the website to purchase your Annual Passes for the upcoming school year.
These passes provide admission to all regular-season home games and are a great way to support our student-athletes while saving money!
We encourage every Stallion family to visit the site and get involved.
Your support helps ensure our athletes have the resources they need to succeed on and off the field.
Thank you for being part of the Stallion Nation! Go Stallions!
South County Athletic Booster Club
📧southcountyhsathleticboosters@gmail.com
🌐 Booster Club Website
Concession Stand Volunteers
We are excited for the Fall sports season 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 concessions 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 and consider helping us out one night! Your assistance is greatly appreciated.
Sign Up Here for Outdoor Concessions
Sign Up Here for Indoor Concessions
Please help us welcome our fabulous teachers and staff back to school with a delicious breakfast on August 11th!
Thank you as always for your support and generosity.
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60B0548AFA82DA6FE3-57693422-back
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
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