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Important Dates:
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Apr 10- Orthodox Good Friday/School Planning Day
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Apr 12- Orthodox Easter
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Apr 15- Purple Up! Month of the Military Child
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Apr 16- Theravada New Year
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Apr 19-25- National Library Week
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Apr 21- Statewide Election
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Apr 22- Earth Day
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Apr 22- Administrative Professionals Day
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Apr 27- 7:00pm (Auditorium)- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
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Apr 28- School Bus Driver Appreciation Day
- Jun 5- 2:00pm- Class of 2026 Graduation- Eagle Arena
SCHS ATTENDANCE INFORMATION 2025-26
Recently, we have seen an increase in students leaving campus without following proper check-out procedures. This has resulted in inaccurate records regarding student location and safety. To ensure our staff can account for every student and to retrieve students in the least disruptive way to classroom instruction, the following procedures are required, effective immediately:
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2-Hour Advance Notice Required: All early dismissal requests must be submitted at least two hours in advance. We will no longer process last-minute phone calls or messages for immediate pickup. Please plan appointments accordingly, as requests failing to meet this lead time will not be honored.
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Illness & Clinic Protocol: If a student feels ill, they MUST report to the School Clinic. Students will only be dismissed for medical reasons after being evaluated by the clinic staff and checked out from that location.
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Official Office Check-Out: All students leaving early must physically check out through the Main Office. Any student who leaves campus without following this procedure will be marked with an unexcused absence.
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Attendance Corrections: If a student is marked UNV for a specific period due to lateness or a clerical error, the student must speak with that teacher directly. The teacher will then update the attendance or notify the attendance team. The Attendance Offices will not alter period-specific attendance without teacher verification.
These procedures are in place to ensure student safety and a focused learning environment. We thank you for your cooperation and for helping us maintain an accurate and secure campus.
Report a Full-Day Absence-The fastest way is to use ParentVUE.
Alternative Methods
Message from Dr. Khoshaba
Greetings SoCo families,
We hope everyone had a restful and joyful Spring Break, filled with time to recharge and connect with loved ones. As we welcome our students, staff, and families back, we are excited to return to a school filled with positive energy. This final stretch of the year is an important one, and we look forward to continuing the strong work ahead, together as one community and supporting one another every step of the way.
Student and Staff Belonging
Voices That Shape Our Practice:
On April 8, the Principal Feedback Forum met to discuss grading practices and academic policies. The session fostered a collaborative exchange between students and administrators, ensuring that multiple perspectives were heard and valued. Together, the group identified actionable next steps to strengthen and improve our academic systems. I always enjoy seeing our student leaders having the courage to speak their hearts!
A Note Worth Celebrating: Superior Sounds at SoCo:
Just after we sent out our final newsletter before Spring Break, we received some exciting news. I am proud to share that South County has once again earned Blue Ribbon status, an honor awarded to Virginia school music programs that receive Superior ratings at State Assessment in Band, Choir, and Orchestra. Our musicians represented SoCo with pride, delivering beautiful performances that earned high praise from judges and Superior ratings across the board.
Don’t Miss a Moment: Spring Performing Arts Lineup
We invite you to attend one—or more—of our remaining Performing Arts events this year. Join us April 23–25 for our musical Cinderella at 7 PM nightly (with a 2 PM matinee on the 25th), followed by the Choir Spring Show, Please Don’t Stop the Music, on May 14 at 7 PM. Our Orchestra takes the stage May 19 with a Senior Solo Showcase at 6 PM and a Spring POPS Concert at 7:30 PM, leading into the Guitar Spring Concert on May 20 at 7 PM and the Band Spring Concert on May 21 at 7 PM—each featuring standout student performances and memorable music.
Keeping Safety in Focus: A Reminder for Our Community
As we head into the final stretch of the school year, we want to reinforce our shared commitment to maintaining a safe and focused school environment. While some students may be participating in an off-campus activity often called “Senior Assassin,” please remember that the school does not sponsor or support this activity. Look-alike weapons, including water guns, and any related items are not permitted on school grounds at any time, as they can disrupt learning and raise safety concerns; students who engage in this activity on school property, whether during or after school hours, will face disciplinary consequences in accordance with the Student Rights & Responsibilities. We appreciate your partnership in helping all students understand these expectations so that our school remains a safe, welcoming place for everyone.
School Culture
Leading the Way: Celebrating Our Assistant Principals
During National Assistant Principal Week, we proudly celebrate our 12-month administrators, including AP’s Mr. Caven, Mr. Hazard, Mrs. Beskenis, Mrs. Garrison (our Director of Student Services), and Mr. Harris (Director of Student Activities) for the leadership and dedication they bring to our school each day. Like skilled architects, they help design and support the systems that allow students and staff to learn, grow, and succeed, often building strength and structure behind the scenes. We are deeply grateful for their steady guidance, thoughtful leadership, and the many ways they help shape a school community where everyone can thrive.
Voices That Matter: Student Shout-Outs in Action:
As part of our student voice initiative, we’ve launched daily Staff Shout-Outs on the morning announcements, highlighting the incredible impact our educators have on students. Each recognition comes directly from student submissions, sharing who they appreciate and what makes South County a place where they feel supported, inspired, and valued. Here’s what I read about our first day with this project:
“I really admire how Ms. Ballard created not only a great classroom with good academics, but also a safe place where people can be themselves without judgement, she’s truly a great person, teacher, and role model!”
“I appreciate how Mr. Mason values the students inside of his advisory and makes it a priority of his to check on his students throughout the week. He even goes above and beyond by getting the students in his advisory donuts each quarter to show his appreciation.”
I’m so thankful to our students for their maturity in recognizing the importance of being thankful to those staff who make such positive impacts on their lives.
An Evening of Inspiration: Our Spring Art Gala:
Join us on April 30 at 6 PM for our third annual Art Gala, a celebration of creativity and talent across our school community. The event will showcase stunning student work in ceramics, photography, painting, and drawing, highlighting the breadth and depth of our visual arts program. As you’ll see in the photos from last year’s event, this is a truly special and elegant evening that promises to be “artfully” unforgettable; you won’t want to miss a single brush with brilliance.
Globally Connected, Stallion Strong
Our latest mural, Our SoCo World, created by our ultra-talented teacher Mrs. Fischer, is a vibrant, large-scale world map that beautifully reflects the diversity and global connections within our school community. With bold colors, clearly defined borders, and detailed labels spanning continents, countries, and states, the mural invites students and staff to see themselves as part of something bigger than our building.
More than just a map, it is a powerful visual reminder that while our journeys may begin in different places, they all intersect here at South County. It celebrates the many cultures, backgrounds, and stories that shape who we are as Stallions: curious, connected, and proud. This piece will inspire belonging and global awareness for years to come.
Cheers to 20 Years of SoCo Excellence
South County High School is proud to celebrate its 20th anniversary on Friday, May 1 at 6:00 PM. This milestone event will honor the legacy, achievements, and community that have shaped SoCo over the past two decades. More details are forthcoming, so please save the date and join us for this special celebration.
Coach's Corner
We are fostering an attitude of gratitude within our school community. You can reinforce this at home by encouraging your student to express appreciation to teachers, staff, and classmates who have supported them throughout the year. Discussing things you are grateful for as a family helps cultivate a positive outlook and strengthens the bonds within our community, extending from school to home.
That’s it for this week! I hope you find time to enjoy what looks like a beautiful weekend of weather!
Kambar
#StandingStrongFor20Years!
👕 Help the Class of 2026 Wear Their Memories!
The Class of 2026 is gearing up for the ultimate finale: the Senior Trip! We’re looking for a hero (or a few!) to sponsor our official trip t-shirts and help us roll out in style.
Why Sponsor Us?
- High Visibility: Your logo will be traveling with us everywhere we go!
- Community Spirit: Support a group of hard-working students as they celebrate years of dedication.
- Lasting Impact: These shirts won't just be worn on the trip; they’ll be keepsakes for a lifetime.
We’re almost across the finish line. Let’s make these final milestones look as bright as our futures!
Interested in becoming a sponsor? Reach out to Jacquie Palaschak at jkpalaschak@fcps.edu to help us make this trip unforgettable. 🎓✨
Important Graduation Information | Victor O'Neill Studios
Congratulations on the upcoming Class of 2026 Graduation! This is such a significant milestone for your student and your family. Victor O’Neill Studios is honored to help capture these lifelong memories.
To view and order professional portraits, Victor O’Neill Studios has created a dedicated QR code for your event. Simply scan the code below to be taken directly to the graduation gallery.
We are excited to celebrate the South County High School Class of 2026
Rehearsal Fuel Needed
🎬 Rehearsals for Cinderella are going well, and our cast and crew will be putting in long hours to bring this show to life!
Help keep their energy up by signing up for a slot (Snacks SignUp Genius Link) and donating:
💧 Small (8 oz) water bottles
🧀 Cheese sticks
🥣 Granola bars, or
🍎 Fruit (apples, oranges, bananas)
A quick grocery add-on can make a big difference during these busy rehearsal days. Donations can be dropped off at the office labeled Theatre — thank you for helping our students stay focused and fueled! Rehearsals continue until the show opens in April, so this will be a continuing need.
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Tech Saturday Support
👉 We need parent volunteers for Tech Saturdays! No construction experience required — just a willingness to lend a hand. DIY skills are a bonus, but enthusiasm is what really counts. Check the Events Calendar for Tech Saturdays: Events Calendar Link
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Chipotle Fundraiser
April 8th - 5 to 9 p.m.
Please help us advertise our upcoming Restaurant Night Fundraiser at Chipotle! Also please consider stopping by and picking up dinner or a snack there on April 8th between 5pm and 9pm. Please show this flyer to the cashier if in person (9447 Lorton Market St) or use the code TGPP4BH if ordering online.
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Theatre Booster Meeting
Wednesday, April 8th at 6:30pm
At Chipotle! (9447 Lorton Market St)
For April we are combining our Booster Board Meeting and Restaurant Night Fundraiser by holding our meeting at Chipotle (9447 Lorton Market St, Lorton)! Please join us and connect with fellow theatre parents, get the inside scoop on upcoming events, and learn how you can be part of the magic behind the scenes.
- Meet and mingle with other Theatre parents
- Hear the latest information about Cinderella
- Get details on the Spring Banquet
- Plus, updates on other exciting plans for the Theatre Department!
We’d love to see you there—your involvement truly lifts our program!
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Publicity Support
Help Spread the Word!
In addition to letting friends and family know about the show and the Princess Tea between shows on the 25th, we can use some help setting out the "sandwich" boards to advertise the show.
Pickup Up Dates:
- April 9th - between 3:00 pm and 6:00pm
- April 11th - between 11:00 am and 5:00pm
Sandwich Board Placement:
- Intersection of Hooes Road and Silverbrook on the South West side.
- Laurel Crest Drive at the roundabout so it can been seen upon leaving the school
- Fairfax Station Market Place to be seen driving towards the school
- Amazon Fresh area
- Lorton Valley Shopping Center, so that it can be seen from northbound Ox Rd approaching the stoplight
- 6th location TBD
Sandwich boards need to be taken down and returned to the school after the last show and no later than April 29th.
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Tech Week Meals
Feed Starving Artists!
Tech rehearsals bring our cast and crew together—and they make for some long days! To keep everyone fueled and focused, our boosters coordinate meals during these rehearsals. We’re looking for volunteers to help cook or order meals for April 18th, 20th, 21st, 22nd, and 25th (between shows).
Don’t worry—you won’t be responsible for feeding the whole team on your own. These meals are a group effort, and we provide recipes, instructions, and support to make it easy. We set a budget for each meal and expenses can be reimbursed. If interested in supporting, please contact Tricia Waugh at schstheatreboostersnewsletter@gmail.com.
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Cinderella Shout-Outs!
Orders Due: April 15th
Celebrate your student by purchasing a Shout Out in the show's program! You can purchase a Full Page ($100), Half Page ($50) or Quarter Page ($25) Shout Out. The deadline to purchase and submit is Wednesday, April 15th. We will provide 1 Souvenir Full Color program with your purchase of the Half and Full size ads only. Black & White copies of the Program can be purchased for $1 at the show.
Please note that both Diamond and Platinum Patrons receive a free shout out perk with their patronage!
To make your purchase you will need to complete these steps: 1. Purchase your Shout Out at https://southcountytheatre.square.site/ 2. Submit your Shout Out by filling out this Google Form and attaching your Shout Out or Photo to be included at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdDfvekfv3waW3zTYz_iZkuZaAD96NyvD2987KpkibmPnf9Rg/viewform?usp=dialog (Note: You will need to use a non-FCPS Google account to complete the Google Form. This form will not work using an FCPS student Google account.)
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Volunteers & Donations
Theatre Boosters will be selling Concessions at all performances of Cinderella — and we need your help to make it a success!
Every candy bar sold and every bottle of water donated helps fund:
- 🎓 Theatre Scholarships
- 👑 Upcoming SCHS Theatre Productions
- 🎤 SCHS Improv
- 🎉 Our Welcome Back Picnic
- …and so much more!
💛 How You Can Help
- Volunteer to work concessions
- Donate items (Candy Bars, Multi-pack bags of chips, Individually Wrapped Cookies, Water, Soda)
It’s quick, easy, and truly makes a difference!
👉 Coming soon - Cinderella Signup Genius Link.
Donations can be dropped off at the office with a note labeled “Theatre.”
Thank you for continuing to support our amazing students — we couldn’t do this without you! 🎭✨
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Princess Party Crew
The clock is ticking, but the magic is just beginning! Join us for a Royal Intermission between our April 25th matinee and evening performance of Cinderella. We’re throwing a high-energy Princess Party, and we want you to be part of the fairy tale!
👑 The Royal Rundown It’s not just a break—it’s a full-blown celebration where kids can:
- Mingle with Royalty: Snap the perfect photo with Cinderella and her princess pals.
- Belt it Out: Take the stage for Princess Karaoke!
- Get Crafty: Design custom wands and get fancy with professional face painting.
- Sweet Treats: Sip on tea or lemonade and enjoy some delicious cookies.
✨See Your Stars in Action Your students will be volunteering and bringing the magic to life! It’s a fantastic chance to see their hard work and school spirit firsthand.
🎉But We Need Your Magic Touch! Every kingdom needs a great crew of Royal Helpers. We’re looking for parent volunteers to help us keep the magic moving. We need help with:
- Setting the Scene (Set-up)
- Royal Admissions (Ticket Sales)
- Activity Pilots (Supervising the fun)
- The "Poof" Crew (Quick clean-up)
👉 Bibbidi-Bobbidi Princess Tea Sign Up Link
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Events Calendar
Check out upcoming events in the SCHS Theatre Department!
A few dates to take note of:
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Apr 11: Tech Saturday
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Apr 15: Shout-Out Orders Due
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Apr 23-25: Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella
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Apr 25: Princess Tea
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Apr 25: Cast Party
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Apr 26: Strike
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May 1: Theatre Scholarship Applications Due (Seniors Only)
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May 8: End of Year Banquet
SCHS Theatre Calendar Link
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Booster Board
ISO of 2026-27 Board Members
Note: We have several parents of seniors who are serving on our Booster Board this year. We are happy for our graduating seniors as they head off on new adventures, but that also leaves us with some position openings for the 2026-27 School Year:
- Secretary
- At Large Board Members
- Committee Members:
- Publicity
- Banquet/Picnic
- Webmaster
- Cappies
- And many more
If you have question or interest in the board, please reach out to: Tricia Waugh
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Theatre Banquet
Save the Date: 5/8/26
We are excited to announce that our annual end of year Theatre Banquet will be held May 8th here at SCHS. Details will be forthcoming later this Spring.
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Thank You Patrons!
Support SCHS
Not sure how to support our Theatre Department? Consider becoming an individual or family Theatre Patron. Do you own a business or work for one that provides funds to support the local community? Consider purchasing a Sponsorship! If you have any questions, please reach out to our Booster President, Tricia Waugh, at schstheatreboostersnewsletter@gmail.com
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Patrons: No donation is too small! Each level of patron comes with additional benefits. Just follow this link.
Sponsors: Follow this link to advertise in our program and website. We reach thousands of patrons per year and want to support our local businesses!
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New Kingstowne Library Opening
Fairfax County Public Library is having a grand opening this Saturday, April 11th for the new Kingstowne Regional Library location which will be housed at the new Franconia Government Center. This new location at 7130 Silver Lake Blvd Alexandria, VA 22315 (which is about 15 minutes from South County) is being expanded to a Regional Library branch from a Community Library branch. The Lorton Community Library remains the closest library to school, but the change at the new Kingstowne branch means we will have a library close by that will include Wednesday night and Sunday hours, as well as additional resources and programming.
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:
FCPS CTE Summer Learning Opportunity!
We're thrilled to invite you to join us for an unforgettable experience at one of the CTE summer enrichment programs! These week-long programs will introduce you to the wonderful world of Career and Technical Education, help you develop new skills, and make new friends.
Our programs offer a wide range of activities designed to spark your curiosity and keep you engaged. You will have the opportunity to learn coding, problem solving, cooking, and more! Our experienced and enthusiastic teachers are dedicated to creating a safe, supportive, and fun environment where you can challenge yourself and discover new passions.
You can find more details about our programs on our camp websites below:
We are able to offer a limited number of students currently in grades 2-11 at a Code UP! grant school with a one-week registration at no cost! If you are interested in this opportunity, please fill out the interest form linked below by April 15th.
CTE Summer Enrichment Interest Form: https://forms.gle/ytfQWmR4MQ6FuvrBA
Families will be notified by the end of April to confirm whether they will receive one of the sponsored seats—students will be chosen by a lottery if there are more interested families than seats available.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact Beth Mehr, CTE Educational Specialist at bgmehr@fcps.edu. We'd be happy to chat with you and your family.
ATHLETICS CORNER
The South County Athletic Training Staff will be hosting a sports physical night on Thursday, May 7th from 5:30 to 7:30pm. The cost is $50 per athlete and all proceeds go to support our athletic training program. Sign up ahead of time to ensure your spot at https://forms.gle/8MenLtRKBb3arpVw5
South County High School Athletic Booster
🎟️ Season Passes Now on Sale! 🎟️ Season passes for home sporting events are now available at adiscounted rate for the remainder of the 2025–2026 school year! Thisis a great opportunity to enjoy all the action while saving money. Come out and show your school spirit by supporting our winter sportsteams—your energy in the stands makes a difference! For pass pricing and purchase details, please visithttps://urldefense.com/v3/__http://www.stallionnationboosters.org__;!!Pwvz7ORF!J66ZTvp_-iNlXFHsaGmImDX27mtGHWb2F6jLkf68MZXnUFXsX784FdKBc6zIkCjPkDNShScHFy_ZdE3ey63VFWV2f8A$
Concession Stand Volunteers
Volunteers Needed — Support Our Sports Programs! Students and families are encouraged to sign up to volunteer at theconcession stands during our home sporting events. This is a greatopportunity for students to earn required volunteer hours whilegaining valuable experience, and for families to directly support ourathletic programs and student-athletes. Concessions play an important role in funding and sustaining oursports teams, and every shift makes a difference. Whether you can helpfor one game or multiple events, your time and support are greatlyappreciated.
👉 Please sign up at https://urldefense.com/v3/__http://www.stallionnationboosters.org__;!!Pwvz7ORF!J66ZTvp_-iNlXFHsaGmImDX27mtGHWb2F6jLkf68MZXnUFXsX784FdKBc6zIkCjPkDNShScHFy_ZdE3ey63VFWV2f8A$ Come be part of the game-day experience and help make our home events a success!
Trademasters Home Services - (20+) Facebook
Trademasters is offering a special promotion: purchase a home services membership for $249 and receive a $200 credit toward a home service repair or maintenance. Additionally, the South County PTSO receives a $20 donation for every membership purchased. Use promo code Extravaganza20 through March 31, 2026.
Check out this fabulous membership https://trademasters.com/how-membership-works
South County High School PTSO is partnering with Seasonal Roots, a local online farmers market, to bring healthy, delicious food to our community, to support local farmers and artisans, and to raise money to support the All Night Grad Party for our seniors!
Seasonal Roots is an online farmers market that delivers “dirt to doorstep” to families in Maryland and Virginia. Each week the market offers more than 150 items that are all grown and produced locally, sustainably, and ethically. Market items include fruit, vegetables, meat, dairy, baked goods, prepared foods, vegan specialties and more.
As part of this fundraiser for ANGP - new customers can join Seasonal Roots for 50% off the membership fee (a $30 savings!)
PLUS for every new customer who signs up (and places their first order), a $20 donation will be made to South County PTSO! WIN-WIN for everyone! Be sure to use promotional code SOCOANGP at https://www.seasonalroots.com/socoangp.
AWARENESS
Month of the Military Child
April is the Month of the Military Child! Every year we take the opportunity to recognize military-connected youth for their service and contribution to our community. Fairfax County Public Schools is proud to have over 14,000 military-connected youth as a part of our student body. We appreciate the varied life experiences they bring to our school community, and recognize their strength and resilience.
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National Arab American Heritage Month
FCPS is proud to celebrate National Arab American Heritage Month in April. This special month provides an opportunity to recognize the history and valuable contributions of Arab Americans. Arab Americans have ancestry in one of the world’s 22 Arab nations, which are located from northern Africa through western Asia. The people of these nations are ethnically, politically, and religiously diverse but share a common cultural and linguistic heritage. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.
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School Library Month
In FCPS libraries, students develop knowledge and skills, experience a sense of belonging, find inspiration and support, and have the ability to freely pursue their personal interests and academic growth.
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Autism Acceptance Month
April is Autism Acceptance Month. One in 31 children is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder in the United States, according to the CDC. Our schools and staff play a vital role in creating and ensuring inclusive environments that accommodate and affirm autistic students.
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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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