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Important Dates:
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Aug 29 & Sept. 1-Schools & offices are closed for the Labor Day holiday.
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Sept 3 – Back-to-School Night: 6:00-7:30 pm
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Sept 3- 5:00 pm (Auditorium)- Senior Parent Information Night
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Sept 3- 5:00pm-6:00pm (Gym)-Driver Educational Session
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Sept 6- 10am-2pm- SCHS Crew Team- Fall Open House
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Sept 9- Special Election (No School)
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Sept 11- Commemoration/Patriot Day
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Sept 13- Tag Day SCHS Performing Arts Department
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Sept 15- Oct 15- National Hispanic Heritage Month
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Sept 17- Constitution Day
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Sept 22-23- Rosh Hashanah
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Sept 23- Rosh Hashanah - Holiday (No School)
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Sept 27- Oct 5 - Blue Star Welcome Week
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Oct 8- SAT School Day for 12th Graders
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Oct 15- 7:00pm (Auditorium)- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
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Jan 7- 7:00pm (Auditorium)- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
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Feb12- 7:00pm (Auditorium)- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
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Apr 27- 7:00pm (Auditorium)- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
- Jun 5- 2:00pm- Class of 2026 Graduation- Eagle Arena
SCHS ATTENDANCE INFORMATION 2025-26
How to Report an Absence
The fastest and most preferred way to report a FULL DAY absence is by using ParentVUE. This method is the most efficient and will ensure your student's attendance is updated quickly.
You can also use one of the alternative options below, but please note that the response time may be slower than using ParentVUE.
Email:
Students with last names A-Dh: southcountyhs.attendanceA-Dh@fcps.edu
Students with last names Di-K: southcountyhs.attendanceDi-K@fcps.edu
Students with last names L-Raj: southcountyhs.attendanceL-Raj@fcps.edu
Students with last names Rak-Z: southcountyhs.attendanceRak-Z@fcps.edu
Attendance Line:
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Students with last names A-Dh: 703-446-1890
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Students with last names Di-K: 703-446-1891
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Students with last names L-Raj: 703-446-1892
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Students with last names Rak-Z: 703-446-1893
When reporting an absence, please provide:
- Student's full name and ID number
- Your name, relationship to the student, and a contact phone number
- The specific reason for the absence (e.g., illness, doctor's appointment, family emergency)
- The date(s) of the absence
Please remember: Absences reported by students will not be excused. If a phone message or email is received from a number or address not listed in SIS, we will contact you to verify the absence.
Note:
Students leaving in the last 30 minutes: ONLY students with prearranged absences or calls received prior to 12noon may check out in the last 30 minutes of the day. (Through the main office)
No Student Pick- Up after 2:15 PM.
ALL LATE ARRIVALS must check through Door 1 in the Main Office
Message from Dr. Khoshaba
Happy Labor Day weekend, Stallions! As we head into this well-deserved break, let’s take a moment to honor the hard work and dedication of our educators, staff, and students—because when it comes to effort, Stallions never horse around. May this long weekend bring you rest, joy, and the energy to keep charging forward together!
Student and Staff Belonging
On Monday, during my Office on Wheels time—when I grab my laptop and do my “office work” out in the hallways so I can be more available to students and staff—I had the joy of watching several of our Ambassadors in action. They were walking new Stallions through the building, giving advice on everything from the fastest routes to class to which teachers they already love on their schedules. It was such a heartwarming reminder of the kindness, leadership, and Stallion spirit our students bring every day, and I couldn’t be prouder of them.
School Culture
We loved seeing our Hype Squad in action this week, getting everyone pumped up for our first home football game by leading fun activities during all lunches. I even joined in the excitement—yes, I rocked a round of Paper-Rock-Scissors! One of the highlights was the Ball Toss, where students teamed up to see how many successful throws they could complete in a short time—it was truly a “toss-up” who would win! Moments like these remind us why it’s always a great day to be a Stallion!
Staff Spotlight
Each week, we shine a light on one of our incredible Stallion staff members so our community can get to know the people who make South County such a special place. From their journeys in education to their passions outside the classroom, this spotlight celebrates the dedication, talents, and personalities that enrich our school every day.
Valarie Hansen, a member of the South County English department, was offered an amazing opportunity this summer to do a tandem skydive with the Army Golden Knights. Though it was a bit terrifying at first, she knew she would regret it if she didn’t face her fear and jump. Being 10,000 feet in the air turned out to be a surreal and liberating experience! While Valarie has never served in the military herself, she has heard countless positive stories from her husband (Army), many extended family members, and South County students who are part of military families. For her, this experience was more than just the thrill of jumping out of a perfectly good airplane—it was an opportunity to better understand and appreciate the many great things the military has provided to so many members of the South County community.
Coach's Corner, Featuring Dr. Omohundro!
Building a strong classroom culture, where respect and collaboration thrive has been our focus for these first two weeks at SOCO. At home, you can foster a similar positive environment by encouraging family discussions, valuing diverse opinions, and practicing active listening. Talk about the importance of teamwork and how everyone's contributions matter, whether it's in a group project at school or a family activity. This shared emphasis on respect and community helps students feel secure and connected, both in and out of the classroom.
Keep in Mind For Next Week:
- Do you have a student driver in the home? Come join us for a Q and A on the process of earning their permit all the way to getting their license at 5:00pm in the gym on Wednesday, Sept. 3.
- Speaking of Sept. 3, we have our Back to School Night (BTSN) that evening from 6:00-7:30pm. This event allows parents to walk their student’s schedule and gain an understanding of each teacher’s expectations for a successful school year. While it’s not a time for individual conferences, it allows parents to feel the culture within each room.
Stay connected, Stallions! Don’t forget to check our school website regularly for the latest news, updates, and celebrations happening across South County: https://southcountyhs.fcps.edu/. It’s the best way to keep up with all the exciting things our Stallion family is accomplishing!
 Kambar
#StandingStrongFor 20Years!
We invite you to join us for our 2025-26 Back to School Night Wednesday, September 3rd. This program provides an opportunity for you to meet your student's teachers and learn more about specific course curriculum, class expectations, and procedures.
Please access your student's class schedule from your SIS Parent Account or your student’s SIS account and bring their schedule with you. First period will begin promptly at 6:00 PM!
During the evening you will also be able to:
- Attend the Senior Planning Program (Auditorium: 5:00-5:55) for SENIOR PARENTS
- Receive an activation code for your SIS Parent Account. (Library: 5:00 PM-6:00 PM)
- Review Drivers Education information (for parents of students taking Drivers Education this year. (Gym: 5:00 PM-5:30 PM)
- Join the PTSO (Main Lobby: 5:00 PM-7:30 PM)
- Purchase grade level spirit wear and learn about school-related activities. (Auditorium Hallway: 5:00 PM-7:30 PM)
CLASS SCHEDULE (classes will last 8 minutes, with 6 minutes in between for transition)
Period 1
Period 3
Period 5
Period 7
Period 2
Period 4
Period 6
Period 8
Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
FCPS is committed to supporting all students’ mental wellness and social and emotional learning. FCPS approved a Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
Screener that students use to share their perspectives on how well their school
and community help them develop skills they need to succeed. These skills include achieving goals, understanding and managing emotions, establishing and maintaining relationships with adults and peers, and making responsible decisions. Students also share how successful their school and community are at making them feel valued, included, and supported. These factors are critical to positive academic, social, and emotional success. All students in grades 3-12 have the opportunity to participate in the screener twice a year, in the fall and spring. You can opt out your child from participating in the SEL Screener by completing the form attached. Please also check out the Parent Digital Consent informative video here.
The opt out applies to the current school year and must be completed annually. For more information about the SEL Screener and access to its contents visit https://www.fcps.edu/student-tests-and-assessments/student-assessment-details/social-emotional-screener
SEL Notification of Testing
Save the date Driver Education Informational Session
We invite you to join us for our 2025-26 Back to School Night on Wednesday, September 3, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM.
Before the start of Back to School Night we will be holding a Driver Education informational session including a question-and-answer period from 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM in the Gymnasium.
Upcoming Senior Post-Secondary Information & Events
Senior Parent Information Night is coming up on Wednesday, September 3rd, at 5:00 p.m. in the auditorium. Counselors and our College and Career Specialist will share information related to post-secondary planning and college applications. This event is scheduled to take place right before Back-to-School Night, which starts at 6 p.m.
Seniors will participate in group meetings with their counselor during Advisory to go over college and career planning topics and important to-do's for this fall.
- Seniors with last names A-K will meet on Tuesday, September 2nd.
- Seniors with last names L-Z will meet on Thursday, September 4th.
Students should check in with their Advisory teacher at the beginning of the period and wait to be dismissed to their designated locations. Counselors will also be following up with seniors throughout the fall to discuss individual plans.
SAT School Day for 12th Graders –
October 8
On Wednesday, October 8, South County High School twelfth graders will have the opportunity to participate in the SAT School Day. FCPS will cover the cost for any twelfth-grade student to take this test.
To reserve a seat for your twelfth grader to take this exam and ensure appropriate test materials are available for your student, families are asked to complete the form below by Wednesday, September 3.
South County High School: 2025 SAT School Day Intent to Participate Form https://forms.gle/dLMVnYHncmchLeji7
Your student will need to use a @fcpsschools.net email account to access and complete this form. A translated version of the form content may be found on the SAT School Day Intent Form webpage (https://www.fcps.edu/node/43896). FCPS sites cannot accept walk-ins on the day of the exam.
General information about the SAT School Day test format is available on the College Board webpage (https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/sat/taking-the-test/sat-in-school). Directions on how to access scores and score release dates are published by College Board via the College Board website.
We will share exam day schedules and additional details in the coming weeks. If you have questions about the SAT School Day administration at South County High School, please contact Chris Bird, SAT School Day Coordinator, at cwbird@fcps.edu .
SCHS National Honor Society
On Thursday, August 28, invitations to apply for membership in the SCHS chapter of the NHS were sent to eligible students.
They were sent by email to students’ FCPS account and a notification of this invitation was posted on Schoology.
To be eligible to apply, students must be enrolled in Grade 10, 11, or 12 and have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.50. The deadline to complete and submit applications is midnight on September 30.
Students can find more information about the SCHS chapter on their 2025 NHS Invites group page in Schoology.
All Current 10th grade HPE students are required to attend one of the 4 scheduled PSTD (Partners for Safe Teen Driving) sessions held here at South County. This is part of the completion of the classroom portion of the Drivers Education curriculum in 10th grade HPE.
Students and a parent/guardian are required to attend one of the 90 minute session on one of the 4 evenings.
Sessions begin promptly at 7:00 pm in the auditorium- doors will close at that time with no late admittance.
PSTD Dates:
- October 15, 2025
- January 7, 2026
- February 12, 2026
- April 27, 2026
SCHS Hype Squad is looking for help collecting items for a spirit bin. They have created a wish list of items to collect for all game dame themes throughout the year. Items on the wish list will be sent directly to SCHS. They are hoping to hand them out to students in the hype squads at sporting events and collect at the end (as best they can). The hype squad leaders would appreciate any help from our community to improve participation and school spirit!
Tag Day is Saturday, September 13!!
Tag Day is the biggest fundraiser of the year for the South County Performing Arts Department. It takes thousands of dollars more than the fees that are charged for each group to keep our band, orchestra, choir, and theater programs running at the high levels we are accustomed to. To keep our fees low and keep the performing arts in our schools, we depend on contributions from our incredible community.
Student teams will be coming to your door on Saturday, September 13 asking for tax-deductible contributions to “Support the Arts.” Thank you in advance to everyone who donates to our Performing Arts department! We look forward to seeing you at all of our performing arts productions here at SCHS. Check the SCHS website for upcoming events.
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 Cell Phone Policy Reminder
Please remind your child that high school students can no longer use their cell phones and other personal devices during passing periods. Cell phones and personal devices must be off and away for the entire school day (bell to bell) with the exception of lunch time in designated lunch spaces.
If you need to reach your child during the school day, please call our main office. Learn more about FCPS’ cell phone and personal device policy.
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🏈 Touchdown! Girls Flag Football Takes the Field This Fall
Starting this fall, we’re piloting Girls Flag Football along with every high school in FCPS, thanks to a partnership with the Washington Commanders. With college scholarships already available and Olympic inclusion coming in 2028, there’s never been a better time to join. Interested students should stop by the Activities Office to find out more. Watch this hype video to learn more about this empowering team sport. Read more about flag football in FCPS.
Volunteer FCPS
New Volunteer Management System – Volunteer FCPS
FCPS has launched a new system to help ensure student and staff safety. Effective immediately:
- If you plan to volunteer more than twice this school year, or chaperone a field trip, you must register in Volunteer FCPS.
- The process involves multiple steps and cannot be completed last minute, so we encourage you to start early.
Volunteer Levels
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Level 1 – Infrequent volunteers (monthly or less frequent) who are always supervised do not need a criminal background check. However, they do need a sex offender registry check, which is performed by signing in at the school's visitor kiosk.
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Level 2 – Frequent, ongoing, or regular volunteers (daily, weekly, bi-weekly) who are also always supervised are subject to the same requirements as Level 1—no criminal background check, but a sex offender registry check via the kiosk is mandatory.
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Level 3- Volunteers with direct, unsupervised interaction with students must complete a criminal background check, including fingerprints and child abuse and neglect checks. This applies to roles like mentors, tutors, or field trip chaperones who are alone with students (not accompanied by an FCPS staff member) at any time during the activity.
How to Register as a Volunteer:
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Review FCPS Volunteer Guidelines – All volunteers must read the FCPS Volunteer Protocols before getting started.
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Register in the FCPS Volunteer Portal
- Select “Schools”
- Search for South County High School or click here
- Sign up for available opportunities (You can register as a general volunteer to start).
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Choose Your Volunteer Level (NEW) – If you might volunteer at a higher level later, we recommend registering as Level 3 now.
All volunteers (new or returning) must:
- Register in Volunteer FCPS
- Complete volunteer orientation
- Sign in through the visitor kiosk at each visit
- Complete a background check if required
For full details, visit the Volunteer FCPS website
Celebrate your Seniors participating in Cheer, Cross Country, Dance, Field Hockey, Football, Golf, Marching Band, and Volleyball with an Individual or Group Senior Ad in the Fall Sports Program!
The Deadline is Sept. 5, 2025
Please order on the SCABC Square site: https://south-county-athletic-booster-club.square.site/athletic-programs or contact Elena Jordon at scabcsponsorship@gmail.com for more information.
ATHLETICS CORNER
South County’s Crew Team is hosting a fall open house on Saturday, September 6th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for interested athletes and their parents to come down to our boathouse (at Sandy Run Boathouse) and tour our facilities! Our crew team is the highest-performing athletic team at South County, with more state titles and national championship Top 6 appearances than any other sport.
The team consistently ranks highly in academic performance as well, showcasing excellence in these athletes both in the classroom and on the water. Crew is a spring-season varsity-level co-ed sport at South County with separate racing categories defined by gender and experience.
South County’s Crew Team does not have tryouts and accepts all student-athletes interested in joining the team and will place them at a level that matches their athletic ability, technique, and skill level–which can always change throughout the season.
If you’re interested in joining or would like more information, please visit sc-crew.org for more information and fill out our interest form to get updates on what's happening with the team and information on how to join.
More information on Fall on the Water, our fall learn-to-row program, and other information about the team can be found at sc-crew.org and on Instagram and Facebook at @rowsocorow.
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
AWARENESS
Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!
The beginning of the school year is the best time to develop strong attendance habits! Students who attend school regularly are more likely to perform well in reading and math, develop strong social and emotional skills, and graduate from high school on time. Help prepare your child for future success. Visit FCPS’ Attendance web page for tips and strategies.
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📅 Calendar Adjustment: September Special Election
Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin has set Tuesday, September 9, as the date for a special election in Virginia’s 11th Congressional District. Because more than half of our schools serve as polling locations, the Fairfax County Office of Elections asked us to consider closing for the day. Therefore, all FCPS schools will be closed on Tuesday, September 9, 2025.
Read Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid’s message about this change to the 2025-26 school year calendar.
September 11 National Day of Service
With the upcoming 24th anniversary of September 11, FCPS acknowledges the loss of life, the heroism of our first responders, and the resilience of our country. The September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance, also called Patriot Day, is a chance to reflect and act in service to others to honor those who were injured or killed in the terrorist attacks.
All FCPS students are encouraged to participate in service learning as it supports Portrait of a Graduate (POG) attributes and social and emotional learning (SEL) skills. Middle and high school students can learn more about service learning by logging into their Naviance account to access x2VOL.
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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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