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A Note From Principal Seward
Dear South Lakes High School Community,
Last week, the Commonwealth of Virginia released its School Performance and Support Framework (SPSF) designations, and I am incredibly proud to share that South Lakes High School has earned the highest recognition possible: Distinguished.
This designation is reserved for schools that are not only meeting, but exceeding, state expectations in academic achievement, student growth, graduation outcomes, and college and career readiness.
This recognition is especially meaningful given the size, diversity, and complexity of South Lakes High School, one of the largest high schools in the Commonwealth. Our students come to us with a wide range of strengths, needs, backgrounds, and aspirations. And yet, together, we did more than meet expectations; we surpassed them. We outperformed projections, challenged assumptions, and demonstrated what is possible when a school community is unified around a shared purpose.
At the heart of our work is a deep commitment to knowing and supporting our students. Through advisory structures, mentoring, targeted interventions, and consistent check-ins, our staff work tirelessly to ensure students feel seen, supported, and challenged. We prioritize student well-being alongside academic success, recognizing that learning flourishes when students feel connected and cared for. In classrooms across South Lakes, teaching and learning are intentional and rigorous. Teachers collaborate regularly to design meaningful learning experiences, analyze student data, and adjust instruction to meet student needs. Clear learning targets, engaging tasks, and timely feedback drive student growth. For students who need additional support, we provide targeted interventions before, during and after the school day to ensure access to success for all learners. Our success is rooted in collaboration. Teams across departments engage in honest reflection, shared problem-solving, and continuous improvement. We focus on high-leverage instructional practices, implement them with purpose, and reflect on their impact. We have made this collective responsibility for student outcomes is a hallmark and defining feature of South Lakes and a key driver of this recognition.
This Distinguished designation belongs to every Seahawk, our students, our staff, our families, and our broader community. It is a testament to your hard work, resilience, and belief in what South Lakes can be and continue to become.
While we are proud of this milestone, we also know that excellence is not a destination. It is a commitment. We will continue to build on this momentum as we serve our students and community with purpose and pride.
Thank you for all that you do to make South Lakes High School a place where students thrive.
With gratitude,
Carlos Seward
We value your feedback. Share your observations, suggestions, questions and celebrations with me here.
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 Important Dates
- December 17, 2025 - Band Concert
- December 19, 2025 - Western High School Presentation to rising 10th graders **NEW DATE**
- December 19, 2025 - Last Day of School before Winter Break
- December 22, 2025 - January 2, 2026 School Closed - Winter Break
- January 8, 2026 - 2026-2027 Curriculum Night, 6:30 - 8:00 PM
FCPS School Year Calendar
Table of Contents
 #AttendanceMatters
We hope that every family, every Seahawk has a wonderful and restful winter break. As of January 5th, we will have 3 ½ weeks left in the second quarter. We need everyone in school to finish the quarter strong!
 Shape Your Story: Course Selection For High School Students
Beginning in January 2026, students will meet with their counselors to discuss course selection for next year. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to actively participate in this important process.
As students choose courses, it is important to remind them to consider the following:
- Current academic strengths and habits.
- Graduation requirements (high school students.
- Interests and career and postsecondary goals.
- Personal well-being.
- Extracurricular activities and other commitments that may impact students’ time and energy.
School-life balance is an important consideration as students strive for academic and personal success. Families may contact their student’s school counselor with questions.
The timeline for South Lakes High School course selection, also referred to as Academic Advising, will begin at the end of January, 2026. See the Timeline above for our schedule.
Graduation Requirements and Planning
FCPS’ Graduation Requirements and Course Planning page provides information that students and families can preview to make informed decisions while planning for success in high school and beyond. For additional support in tracking these requirements, families can now log into ParentVUE to monitor their student's progress toward graduation.
Reviewing the Program of Studies may also be helpful. Be sure to refer to our course catalog and course selection information.
As we approach Winter Break, we want to ensure students have time to rest, recharge, and be fully present with their families. No homework should be assigned over Winter Break, and no assignments should be due during the break or within the first two instructional days following our return. Teachers may assign long-range work in advance to support planning and time-management skills.
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Leadership in Action
 The 3rd Fairfax County-Sports Leadership Annual Meeting was hosted this year by our South Lakes Leadership Class. Over 15 FCPS schools were represented by teachers and students at this year’s conference.
At the conference, students participated in collaborative activities to get to know the students from other schools and team building activities such as “build a champion.” The Director of all student activities and athletics in FCPS, Tom Horn, joined the conference and gathered input from the athletic leaders on how they and the county’s office can collaborate. At the end of the conference all the students worked together to create a sportsmanship video for the county that will be finalized and showcased very soon.
Overall, the athletic leadership students had a great time networking, collaborating, and having fun participating at the conference. Congratulations to our students and the leadership of Mr. Dan Cincinnati for facilitating this outstanding event!
"The Lakes -- Podcast"
 Billy Watts, our Assessment Coach, and resident genius, has created the first ever South Lakes High School Podcast, entitled "The Lakes!" The podcast will feature stories, interviews, and advice for students, parents, educators, and community about all things South Lakes High School. The very first episode of the new podcast is "Navigating New Waters: Choosing a Pathway after High School, featuring our very own Kathy Luongo! Check it out, listen, follow, like, and of course, subscribe!
South Lakes Marching Band Represents Our Community in Hawaii
 The South Lakes High School Marching Band, widely known as The Spirit of Reston, recently returned from an unforgettable journey to Hawaii—where they proudly represented our school in both a performance aboard the historic USS Missouri and in the 2025 Pearl Harbor Day Parade.
Director of Bands Grayson Fore reported that our students were exemplary ambassadors for South Lakes. Their respectful conduct at the USS Arizona Memorial demonstrated deep understanding of the significance of the moment, and staff were moved by their maturity and reverence.
The trip offered students rich educational experiences outside the traditional classroom as well. At the beach, band parent and marine biologist Peter Bouwma led a spontaneous lesson on the marine life that thrives along Hawaii’s reef ecosystems—bringing science to life through real-world observation.
Students also explored the Polynesian Cultural Center, immersing themselves in the traditions, stories, and cultural practices of the region; from fire making to traditional dances to watching performers climb towering coconut trees. These experiences broadened their perspectives and deepened their appreciation for cultures across the Pacific.
This trip was a celebration of learning, culture, artistry, and community pride. Thank you to our band staff, parent volunteers, and supporters who helped make this opportunity possible. Most importantly, thank you to our incredible students, who represented South Lakes with excellence every step of the way.
The Spirit of Reston continues to make us proud on the field, on the stage, and across the world.
SLHS Outstanding Employee Awards
 Each year, each school in FCPS holds the process of selecting their outstanding employees for the year. Community, parents, students and faculty are able to submit nominations. Those selected winners move on to complete at the Region level. This year the nominees and selected winners include:
Outstanding OPERATIONAL Employee
Nominees
Ileana Cerda Casey Grimes Natalie Hill Candice Johnson
Casey Grimes was selected the South Lakes Operational Employee of the Year. He was recognized for “Tirelessly working for the safety and security of our school, Casey has transformed our building into a comfortable facility that protects our students and teachers every day. Before we even have a chance to report a necessary repair, Casey notices what needs to be done and does it quickly, efficiently, and with a pleasant demeanor.”
Outstanding PROFESSIONAL Employee
Nominees
Tricia Cohen Gretta Orazen Patrick Tubbins
Tricia Cohen was selected the South Lakes Outstanding PROFESSIONAL Employee of the Year. She was recognized for “Her open-door policy makes her approachable and trusted by both staff and families. She is always ready to listen, guide, and help whenever someone reaches out. She has made the IEP process seamless and supportive, walking teachers and families through each step with patience and clarity while empowering everyone to feel confident and involved.”
Outstanding LEADER
Nominees
Michele Beard Mie Devers Valerie Winter
Valerie Winter was selected the South Lakes Outstanding Leader of the Year. She was recognized for “Seeing where good is happening and fosters collaboration by bringing staff members from different departments together to support one another. If a student is struggling in a class but thriving in another, she brings the two together to talk through ways to support the student and follows up with each to see how it went.”
Outstanding New Teacher
Nominees
Jill Koppel Robert Smith Liza Wynn
Liza Wynn was selected the South Lakes Outstanding NEW TEACHER of the Year. She was recognized for “In 2024, initially hired as an instructional assistant, Ms. Wynn accepted a sudden vacancy—stepping into a lead teacher role just a few days before student instruction commenced. This transition was undertaken without hesitation, emphasizing her deep commitment to ensuring educational success for our students. She is equally qualified, deeply passionate, and profoundly empathetic.”
Outstanding TEACHER
Nominees
Chris Cochran Sherri Evans Mel Green Sarah Hedgecock
Sydelle Keisler Catherine McDermott Evan Millar Evis Vasili
Sydelle Keisler was selected South Lakes Outstanding TEACHER of the Year. She was recognized for “Taking the time and effort to ensure that all of her students are getting what they individually need to learn the best they can, and you can tell that she truly cares about her students' (current and former) well-being, in addition to just how well they do in her classes.”
South Lakes PTSA Food Pantry - Winter Break Schedule
Due to Christmas and New Years falling on Thursday's this year, the South Lakes PTSA Food Pantry has adjust their distribution days as follows:
- Friday, December 26, 2025
- Friday, January 2, 2026
Distribution times remain the same, 4:30PM - 5:00PM.
Should you have additional questions or would like to make a donation the the pantry, visit their website here...South Lakes PTSA Pantry.
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Graduation Status Now Available in ParentVUE & StudentVUE
A new Graduation Status section is now available in ParentVUE and StudentVUE. The Graduation Status is a tool that helps parents and students monitor and track their progress in meeting graduation requirements. This feature includes progress towards the Standard or Advanced Studies diploma for high school students and middle school students who have enrolled in one or more high school courses. This new graduation status section is available in addition to the course history and unofficial transcript options in ParentVUE and StudentVUE. To view the graduation status section, please take the following steps:
- Login to your SIS ParentVUE Account
- Go to “Course History” for your middle or high school student
- Go to “Graduation Status” and toggle “on”
For questions about graduation requirements, please contact your school counselor. Additional information about ParentVUE is available on the following website: https://www.fcps.edu/resources/technology/student-information-system-sis-fcps/sis-parent-account-overview
Additionally, a resource guide with frequently asked questions (FAQ) for the Graduation Status section is available for school counseling professionals on the Graduation Requirements site.
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2026 SLHS All Night Grad Party (ANGP)
Sign up to receive emails about the 2026 All Night Grad Party (ANGP). You'll get updates about ANGP tickets, lawn signs, planning meetings, fundraisers, volunteer opportunities, party reveals, and more... Sign up here!
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Support Our Schools: 25 for 2025 Giving Challenge
Join Educate Fairfax’s 25 for 2025 Giving Challenge and help ensure every FCPS student has the tools, support, and inspiration to succeed. Every gift, whether you can give $25 or $2,500, helps students learn while supporting the teachers and staff who make a lasting difference.
Educate Fairfax is the nonprofit education foundation that supports FCPS by providing resources, recognizing outstanding educators, and strengthening connections between schools and the community. Educate Fairfax invests directly in classrooms and programs. Last year, they contributed $1.27 million back into our schools.
The foundation supplied more than 5,000 school supply kits to more than 61 schools, centers, shelters, and Welcome Centers. Its Food for All Campaign packed more than 1,000 snack packs and helped feed more than 350 families over Thanksgiving. Read the Educate Fairfax Annual Report to learn more about their impact.
Together, we can support and encourage all learners and educators and strengthen the future of our schools. Donate to Educate Fairfax today.
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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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Become Unskippable: Talking to Teens About Fentanyl
Are you planning on spending more time with your teen over winter break? Or are they planning to spend time away from you with friends? Now may be a good time to talk to them about fentanyl and overdose.
Discussing tough topics like fentanyl and other drugs can feel challenging, no matter how close you are with your child. Explain to your teen that it’s important to learn about fentanyl so they know what to do if a friend overdoses. Prepare in advance with the tips below:
- Set the stage. Choose a casual environment that’s free from distractions. Talk while driving the car, taking a walk, or doing chores together.
- Make it a two-way discussion. Ask open-ended questions.
- Stay patient, and reserve judgment.
- Check in with your child early and often.
Learn how to start an unskippable conversation, and find resources to share with your teen on how to spot an overdose and how to respond.
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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
Participation is voluntary. Additional Immunization Resources are available online. Parents or guardians may schedule an appointment for their student.️
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No Cost Virtual Therapy for High School Students
Is your student experiencing anxiety, behavior changes, or challenges with peer and family relationships? If so, you may refer your child for weekly therapy with a licensed therapist through Hazel Health. Visit the FCPS Teletherapy webpage for information on this service.
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.
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.
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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