Mustang Weekly, December 19, 2025

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happy holidays

 

Hello Mustangs,

It has been a tremendous first half of the school year! Thank you to each of you for making it so amazing. Everything you bring to our school community is truly appreciated. As we prepare for the new year, please note that we are welcoming an additional assistant principal, Ms. Raine Bradley, to the South County community on January 5, 2026. Lastly, I wish you all a fantastic winter break filled with joy and relaxation. As always, thank you for all you do, and please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions, feedback, or concerns. We will see you in January!

Justin Simmons | Principal | South County Middle School


Calendar Reminders: Winter Break

❄️ Winter Break 

Winter break is Monday, December 22, 2025, to Friday, January 2, 2026.

To help make sure you and your children have a restful break, we have asked that no homework be assigned during this time. Teachers may assign long-range assignments in the weeks before the break, allowing students to practice time management skills, but no assignments will be due immediately after the break.

We look forward to welcoming students back in the new year. Classes resume on Monday, January 5, 2026

Three Kings Day and Orthodox Christmas (Observance Days)

FCPS has designated Three Kings Day/Epiphany and Orthodox Christmas, Tuesday, January 6, 2026, and Wednesday, January 7, 2026, as religious and cultural observance days. There is school on these days, however specific events that cannot be made up will not be held on these observance days. See the complete school year calendar

 

January 8 - SCHS Curriculum Night (Rising 9th Graders)

January 15 - SCMS Curriculum Night, 6:00 - 7:30 PM


Shape Your Story: Course Selection for Middle and 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 are welcome to contact their student’s school counselor with questions.


ptso logo

Pampered Chef Fundraiser  Still need some fun gifts for the holidays? Maybe you just want some things for yourself! Now you can do it and help out the SCMS PTSO! Use the link below to shop until December 31st!

 


community

Food Assistance and Resource Guide

Food insecurity impacts more than 96,000 Fairfax County residents. Learn how to help and discover the many resources available to support those who need food assistance or shelter. View the county’s Human Services Resource Guide.

Winter Resources for Families

A list of resources has been compiled for students and families in case they or someone they know needs assistance while schools are closed for winter break. Please visit FCPS’ winter resources page for information on academic support, mental health support, and county resources related to food, clothing, housing, and other needs.