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A Note From Principal Seward
Dear South Lakes High School Community,
The end of the quarter is just two weeks away! Have you had a chance to check your child’s grades? If not, please take a moment to do so through ParentVue. For students who may be struggling academically, I encourage you to take advantage of our After-School Academics and Attendance Program (ASAAP), held every Tuesday and Wednesday after school in the library.
ASAAP provides students with structured time and support to focus on academics, and it serves as a great opportunity for them to get help from teachers, make up assignments, and stay on track. In addition, students and parents are always welcome to schedule individual appointments with teachers for additional learning opportunities. All students are invited to attend ASAAP, and we encourage them to communicate with their teachers ahead of time to make the most of the experience.
On Tuesday, October 14, 2025, South Lakes made history by participating in our first-ever Girls Flag Football game! This exciting new athletic opportunity allows more students to engage in the Seahawk sports experience. Thanks to the generous support of the Washington Commanders, high schools across Northern Virginia are forming teams to expand access to football for female athletes. For those keeping score—our Seahawks won their first game against Chantilly High School and came up just short in their second matchup against our neighbors on the other side of Baron Cameron Avenue. We are incredibly proud of these talented student-athletes for paving the way for future teams!
We are also thrilled to share that South Lakes High School has been officially recognized as a Virginia Purple Star School—an honor awarded to schools that demonstrate exceptional commitment to supporting military-connected students and their families.
This distinction, presented by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE), celebrates schools that go above and beyond to ensure a smooth transition for students whose parents serve in the U.S. Armed Forces. Purple Star Schools exemplify compassion, stability, and excellence by creating welcoming environments, offering tailored academic and emotional supports, and fostering meaningful partnerships with military and community organizations.
At South Lakes, our dedication to inclusivity and belonging extends to every Seahawk. This recognition highlights the outstanding efforts of our staff, counselors, and student ambassadors who ensure every military-connected student feels seen, supported, and valued from the moment they join our community.
We extend heartfelt appreciation to our faculty, families, and community partners who made this achievement possible. Together, we continue to strengthen our culture of care, connection, and Seahawk pride!
With Gratitude,
Carlos Seward
We value your feedback. Share your observations, suggestions, questions and celebrations with me here.
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Important Dates
- October 22 - Undergraduate Picture Make-ups/Re-takes
- October 31 - End of 1st Quarter (2-Hour early release)
- October 31 - IB/AP Exam Opt-Out Request Deadline
- November 3-4 - Student Holiday/Teacher Workdays
- November 5 - 1st Day Quarter 2
- November 11 - School Holiday for Indigenous People Day
- November 14-15, 21-22 - Fall Play: A Monster Calls
- November 26-28 - School Holiday for Thanksgiving
FCPS School Year Calendar
Table of Contents
 Every Day Is a Stepping Stone to Success
Attendance is an important life skill that will help your child later in life. It’s a good habit to build now to help them graduate from college on time and/or routinely report to work on time once they start working.
Please take a look at the FCPS Calendar. Try to schedule any trips or family events on weekends and school holidays. Every day of learning is a day toward success. Keep in mind that absences add up quickly. Students who are absent 10% of the school year (or just two days per month) are considered “chronically absent.”
When possible, schedule appointments for your child outside of school hours. If your child needs to miss school because of an illness or appointment, you must report the absence to our school.
When Should Your Child Stay Home?
Whether students miss school because of illness or any other reason, missing school leads to learning loss.
Help your student succeed by encouraging them to miss as few days as possible. However, do make sure your student stays home if they are sick. So when should your child stay home? Visit the FCPS website for helpful ideas regarding absences and how to work with your child and our school.
If your child has a chronic illness, make sure to notify our school by contacting your child's counselor and your child’s [teacher or teachers] so that assistance can be provided if needed. Keep an open line of communication with our public health nurse. Call the school as soon as you know your child will be absent and tell school staff why and for how long.
EARLY CHECK-OUTS*/FULL DAY ABSENCES/LATE ARRIVALS INSTRUCTIONS
To request an EARLY CHECK-OUT* and report FULL DAY ABSENCES and/or LATE ARRIVALS, parents/guardians can choose from the following options:
*NOTE – When requesting EARLY CHECK-OUT, we ask that you provide the school a minimum notice of 2-hours. This will help us ensure that the student is ready to checkout based on your requested time, your wait time is minimized, and most importantly, there is minimal disruption to classroom instruction.
Please click on the SLHS Attendance Website for more information. If you have any questions about attendance, please contact the school via email at SouthLakesHigh.Attendance@fcps.edu.
Visit FCPS’ Attendance webpage for resources on attendance.
We’re excited to offer you a more convenient option for receiving your student’s report cards: Go Paperless!
By choosing to go paperless, you'll be able to:
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Access report cards directly in ParentVUE with just a few clicks.
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Reduce wait time in seeing your student’s report card.
Here's how you can OPT-IN:
- Log into ParentVUE, click on "My Account," and select “Go Paperless.”
- All parents/guardians living with the student at the same address must have an active SIS ParentVUE account to opt-in.
- Once selected, the “Go Paperless” option will apply to all associated students, no matter their grade level.
- If you’ve already opted for paperless for your secondary students, it will automatically apply to any younger siblings at the elementary level too!
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 South Lakes Theatre Arts presents A Monster Calls, on stage November 14–15 and November 21–22. This is the Northern Virginia premiere of this play.
A Monster Calls follows a 13-year-old boy who is navigating emotions due to bullying, isolation, and grief. He is visited by a “Monster” yew tree that guides him through a series of stories to help him.
Recommended for audiences aged 13+ for mature themes, including illness, grief, and loss.
Location: South Lakes High School Theatre
Times:
- 7:30pm on November 14th, 15th, 21st, & 22nd and
- 2:00pm on November 15th & 22nd
Tickets: https://www.etix.com/ticket/v/15621/south-lakes-high-school-theatre
As in previous years, the fees for the first six IB and AP tests taken for courses in which students are enrolled for high school credit will be paid by FCPS. Students taking AP tests without enrolling in the corresponding FCPS course are responsible for the test fee(s).
FCPS expects all students to take IB and AP tests for courses in which they are enrolled. However, students will have the opportunity to opt-out of the test(s) during this opt-out window.
If you would like to opt-out of an IB exam, please fill out this form while logged in to your fcpsschools.net account and you will receive an opt out form to sign and return to the school.
If you would like to opt-out of an AP exam, contact Patrick Tubbins at petubbins@fcps.edu.
Students must make opt-out decisions by October 31, 2025.
Parents will be billed a non-refundable test fee in December 2025 through MySchoolBucks for tests that exceed the six FCPS funded tests.
Reference the IB exam dates site for the schedule of IB Exams. IB exam slots are fixed, and students cannot take exams at alternate times.
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How AI Is Shaping Teaching and Learning
Meeting the Moment: FCPS Forward — AI, a conversation with division leadership, which will take place Monday, November 3, from 6 to 8 p.m., at West Springfield High School. We encourage you to attend to:
- Learn about the opportunities and challenges of AI in education.
- Explore how AI can support FCPS student achievement and workforce readiness.
- Engage in a thought-provoking panel and keynotes.
- Help shape the future of innovation at Fairfax County Public Schools.
Agenda details will be shared with registered participants in the coming weeks. Contact DITEvents@fcps.edu with any questions.
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School Bond Referendum on Ballot Tuesday, November 4
What Is a Bond?
To pay for large-scale construction and renovation work, Fairfax County sells bonds, which allows the county to pay for these projects over time — like a home mortgage. By maintaining its triple-A bond rating, Fairfax County bonds are purchased by institutional investors at very low rates, saving the county considerable amounts of money that might otherwise be paid in interest. The county estimates that the triple-A rating has saved taxpayers at least $1 billion in financing costs.
Video: What Is a Bond? Video
FCPS uses bonds to fund all of its capital improvement projects – the projects that are focused on the infrastructure of schools and facilities. From important renovations to new safety features like security vestibules, this work is paid for by bonds.
FCPS will have a bond referendum on the ballot this election day, Tuesday, November 4. Bonds can make a difference that represents an investment in public education now and in the future.
Voters have a direct role in shaping the future of FCPS schools. Read more about the 2025 Bond Referendum. Learn more about registering to vote.
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FCPS Ombuds Office: Your Go-To Guide for the School System
Do you have a question or concern about Fairfax County Public Schools, but you don’t know where to find the answer? Dawn Clements wants you to know you can ask her! Dawn’s mission as the FCPS Ombuds is to make it easier to understand the school system and help build trust within the community. In honor of Ombuds Day, learn more about Dawn Clements and the Ombuds Office.
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Student Bus Passes Offer Free Transportation
All Fairfax County middle and 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 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week, all year. Learn more about the Student Pass and access the application, which can be returned to the front office.
Children 12 and younger ride for free on the Fairfax Connector with a paying adult.
Bus Discount Program for Adults
Fairfax Connector’s Transit Ridership Incentive Program (TRIP) provides 50% off fares for low-income residents ages 18-65. Learn more about the TRIP program and how to apply.
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Do you know of a South Lakes High School or FCPS employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way or goes beyond what is expected? If so, then click here to share with everyone. |
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Make Sure Your Children Are Up-to-Date on Immunizations
Please make sure your child has all of their necessary immunizations. Remember, all students are required to be immunized against certain diseases to attend school in Virginia. This is an important part of keeping children healthy!
Starting Tuesday, November 18, students who have not provided proof of immunization may not be allowed to attend school. Visit the How To Submit Immunization Documents webpage for step-by-step guidance on how to check your child’s immunization status and submit updated immunization information
Please check with your health care provider to make sure your child is up to date on required immunizations for the 2025-26 school year. If your child needs an immunization, make an appointment with your healthcare provider, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or view other Immunization Resources. Be wise and immunize!
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No Cost Virtual Therapy for High School Students
- Virtual therapy sessions are available at no cost to FCPS high school students to provide a safe space to address concerns such as:
- Mood/behavior changes, motivation, grief/loss.
- Anxiety, worry, fears.
- Social skills, bullying, peer and family relationships.
- Academic stress.
- In order for students to participate, caregivers must give permission for FCPS to share basic demographic information with Hazel Health in ParentVUE. They must also provide consent for their student to access therapy services.
- Students may then be referred by a guardian or designated school staff member. Refer your child by calling 571-749-2940 or contacting an FCPS school counselor, social worker, psychologist, or director of Student Services.
- Visit the FCPS Teletherapy webpage for more information.
Free and Reduced Meals - Apply Today!
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.
Family Information Line Available in Nine Languages
Family Academy
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Get to Know FCPS and the Resources Available to Families
We know that as a parent or caregiver, you play a critical role in your child’s education. The FCPS Family Academy compiles classes, webinars, workshops, and programs offered by the school division to help you support your child’s needs and learning at home.
The Family Academy also includes information about resources to help ensure your child has what they need to succeed. Check out some of the upcoming Family Academy sessions:
- Co-Parenting: Two Parents, Two Homes (available in English and Spanish)
- Loving Solutions
- Military-Connected Youth Family Advisory Council
- Parent Project
- Family Resource Center Webinars on topics including: How to Prepare for School; Building Collaborative Relationships Between Caregivers and Educators; Worried Parents, Anxious Kids; and What Families Need to Know About Drugs for Their Students with Disabilities.
Visit the Family Academy catalog for more information on these sessions and to register to attend.
Parent Resource Center
- The FCPS Parent Resource Center offers a wide variety of information and resources to support the success of all students. This includes monthly workshops and webinars. More information can be found on the FCPS website, including registration information.
Varsity Tutors
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Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost
Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes; on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring; essay editing; and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.
Resources for Life After High School
Roadmap to College: What Students Should Do Each Year of High School
Join the FCPS Family Resource Center for this engaging and informative webinar on what high school students should do to stand out on college applications. Attend for a guide for families and clear strategies for college preparation and success. This webinar is for families of upper-middle and high school students. Register to attend online on Friday, October 31, from 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Financial Aid Resources for Parents and Students
Parents and students in the Class of 2026 are invited to attend a series of workshops designed to help them understand the financial aid and scholarship processes. Join College Access Fairfax at any of the following virtual presentations. Click on a date to join the session:
- Paying for College for Military Families
- FAFSA Line-by-Line
For more information, contact info@collegeaccessfairfax.org.
Be one of the first to submit the 2026-27 FAFSA® form!
The U.S. Department of Education is looking for students to help test the 2026-27 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form before it’s released by October 1.
By joining beta testing, students can:
- Submit their 2026–27 FAFSA form early.
- Get a head start on the financial aid process.
- Be part of shaping the future of the FAFSA experience.
Sign up today.
Career and Transition Services (CTS) Presents the Moving on to Life in the Community Resource Fair
The Moving on to Life in the Community exhibitor fair will introduce and connect families and students with IEPs to adult service providers and community supports they may need upon exiting the school system. Register to attend the community resource fair at Robinson Secondary School on Thursday, November 6, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
JOIN THE PTSA TODAY!
For more information please visit the South Lakes PTSA website.
Quick links to the South Lakes High School Website:
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Be sure to follow us on Instagram (@south_lakeshs) and X (@southlakeshs)!!
Follow South Lakes HS on Social Media: Stay connected with South Lakes High School by following us on social media! It's the best way to keep up with our latest news, celebrate student achievements, and keep up with everything going on at The Lakes! Links: X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram.
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