Dear South Lakes Families and Seahawk Community,

I hope each of you had a restful and meaningful spring break. Time away from our daily routines is important, and I trust this break provided opportunities to recharge, reflect, and enjoy time with those who matter most. I, too, was able to step away briefly, and I return energized and fully focused on a strong and successful finish to the school year.

As we transition back into our routines, this is our moment to lock in. We are now just weeks away from SOL assessments and IB exams, and the path to end of the school year, and graduation for our seniors, is quickly approaching. The finish line is in sight, and every single day between now and then matters. Our collective focus, effort, and commitment will ensure that each and every Seahawk finishes the year strong and reaches their goals.

One of the most important factors in that success is consistent attendance. A student is considered chronically absent if they miss 10% or more of the school year, regardless of whether those absences are excused or unexcused. This matters because every missed day is a missed opportunity for learning, connection, and growth. Simply put, being present is one of the most powerful ways our students can position themselves for success.

Historically, this time of year can bring a decline in attendance, but at South Lakes, we set a higher standard. I am asking for a renewed commitment from our students and families: be present, be on time, and be fully engaged each day. Every class, every assignment, and every interaction contributes to a strong finish.

We are incredibly proud of the progress our students have made, and we are confident in what lies ahead. Let’s continue to move forward together with purpose, pride, and upholding the standard of excellence.

This week, we proudly recognize National Assistant Principal Week, and I want to take a moment to honor the outstanding leaders who serve our school each and every day. Our Assistant Principals, Ms. Mie Devers, Ms. Jenny York, Ms. Val Winter, Ms. Michele Beard, Dr. Marvin Rodriguez, and Dr. Phil Cronin, play a critical role in supporting our students, staff, and families. They are instructional leaders, problem-solvers, and champions for student success, often working long beyond the school day to ensure South Lakes remains a safe, supportive, and a distinguished high-performing school community.

We are fortunate to have such a dedicated team. I encourage you to take a moment to thank them and recognize the impact they have on our school each day.

Thank you for your continued partnership and commitment to South Lakes.

With Gratitude,

Carlos Seward

We value your feedback. Share your observations, suggestions, questions and celebrations with me here.

2026 Special Education Family Conference

The 2026 Special Education Family Conference, Stronger Together: Connecting Families and Schools, will take place on Saturday, April 18, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Marshall High School. 

Dr. Shelley Moore will deliver the keynote address on The Evolution of Inclusion. It will look at how the goals of inclusion have continued to shift and evolve, as we learn more about diversity and identity. Participants will be invited to reflect on their own contexts and consider next steps for advocacy and action.

Visit the FCPS 2026 Special Education Family Conference webpage for more information, including breakout session offerings and a list of vendors that will be on site. Confirm your attendance for this year’s conference.

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:

1. Login to your SIS ParentVUE Account
2. Go to “Course History” for your middle or high school student
3. 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.

"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. 

Check out what's new this week on the first ever SLHS podcast "The Lakes" - available on Apple, Spotify, or Amazon Podcasts. 

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!

Weather Safety

FCPS Commitment to Weather Safety

At FCPS, the safety of our students, staff, and visitors is our highest priority — no matter the season. In extreme cold, we monitor National Weather Service (NWS) guidance, adjust outdoor activities, and ensure our buildings are warm and secure. In extreme heat, we modify or cancel outdoor activities, use on-site measurements to guide athletic decisions, and promote hydration and cooling breaks. 

FCPS has plans in place to provide guidance during severe weather, including storms, flooding, and tornadoes. Decisions are informed by industry best practices, weather alerts, and a commitment to keeping our school community safe and healthy year-round. Read more about weather safety, including the differences between an advisory, watch, and warning.

2026-2027 Budget Update

Provide the County Government With Feedback on Its Budget

About 70% of the FCPS budget comes from the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. The Board of Supervisors is reviewing the Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 Advertised Budget and considering possible adjustments before adoption in May. Opportunities to provide feedback to the county include Budget Town Hall Meetings airing on Channel 16 on Tuesday, April 7, at 7 p.m., (Springfield District) and Friday, April 10, at 6 p.m., (Franconia District).

You can also provide your input during the county’s Budget public hearings on Tuesday, April 14, at 4 p.m., and Wednesday, April 15, and Thursday, April 16, at 3 p.m. at the Government Center Board Auditorium. Register in advance to speak. 

Visit the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors website to learn more about the county’s FY 2027 Budget. 

New Menu Items

Discover What’s New on the Menu

FCPS is excited to bring new and flavorful menu items to students while continuing to meet the high nutrition standards you trust. The school division’s registered dietitian team has developed standards to make school meals healthier while still tasting great.

Here’s what students can look forward to:

• New globally inspired dishes that offer exciting flavors from around the world.
• Fresh ingredients like whole grains, lean proteins, and plant-based options.
• Scratch-made items like homemade granola.
• Vegetarian options, like the meatless Philly melt, which are available alongside classic favorites.

Our goal is to provide balanced, safe, and flavorful meals that support students’ learning, growth, and overall health.

Want to know what’s on the menu? Food and Nutrition Services has menus available.

Community Conversations: Share Your Thoughts With Dr. Reid

As a listening leader, connecting with community members across our school division is critical to FCPS Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid. Her Community Conversations are opportunities for you to share your thoughts and ask questions. Events will be held from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on: 

• Monday, April 13, at Belle View Elementary School.
• Thursday, April 16, at Ravensworth Elementary School (new date).
• Monday, April 20, at Westgate Elementary School.
• Wednesday, April 22, at Crestwood Elementary School.

Click on a date to register to attend that event. Registration is not required, but helps with planning, especially for child care and interpretation services. Events are open to all. Visit the superintendent’s engagement page for the most up-to-date information.

FCPS Summer Internship Program

Summer Student Intern Program Applications Open

The FCPS Summer Internship Program is a six-week, paid, in-person opportunity for FCPS high school students and recent alumni enrolled in post-secondary education. The program will run from Monday, July 6, to Friday, August 14. It offers hands-on work experience across central office departments. 

Interns will work alongside professionals on projects that help prepare FCPS for the upcoming school year. They will learn about current trends in fields including AI and emerging technologies, business and finance, architecture and construction, communications, safety and cybersecurity, and education and advocacy as well as participate in weekly professional development workshops.

Job descriptions, details, and the interest form (which should be completed by 5 p.m. on Friday, April 10) are available on the Summer Internship webpage. Watch a video about last year’s Summer Internship Program and follow @FCPSInterns on Instagram.  

Prepare for Summer Learning and Fun for Students

Registration is open or will be available soon for summer camps and learning opportunities offered by Fairfax County Public Schools for all students.

Career and Technical Education and Institute for the Arts Camps

Career and Technical Education camps and Institute for the Arts camps will be held in July at Robinson Secondary School from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bus transportation will be available from select FCPS middle and high schools. Tuition assistance is available to FCPS families eligible for free or reduced meals.

CTE Summer Academy (CSA) is a week-long enrichment program that allows students in grades 6-11 to dive deeper into CTE program areas, develop skills, and begin career exploration. Watch this video about CTE camps. Registration is open for these programs through Friday, June 5.

Institute for the Arts (IFTA) is a two-week camp for students currently in grades 6-11. Students select from nearly 60 classes in art, dance, music, and theater. Rising freshmen have the option to take Health and PE 9 through IFTA as well!

Production Camp is a four-week summer theatre intensive for students in grades 6-11. Students in performance or technical theatre tracks rehearse, design, and build a musical in a collaborative atmosphere. The show is presented to the public at the end of camp.

New this year: Students in the above camps can also register for aftercare, which is available from 2 to 5 p.m.

Self-Directed Economics and Personal Finance

Summer is a great time for high school students to fulfill the Economics and Personal Finance course requirement. During the self-directed course, students work independently to complete the requirements. Registration is now open. Students must register by Friday, June 5. For more information, see the Summer Learning information page.

Summer Online Campus

Take advantage of the opportunity to earn a high school course credit via this summer’s Online Campus program. Registration is now open. Students must register by Friday, June 5. Mathematics, health and physical education, career and technical education, English, science, social studies, and world language courses are available to eligible middle and high school students.

Sleep Awareness Week

The National Sleep Foundation’s Sleep Awareness Week is March 8 to 14. The observance highlights the critical link between sleep and health, both physical and mental. Read more about sleep health and sleep strategies you can try at home.

Attendance and Illness

When Should Your Child Stay Home?

Help your student succeed in school by encouraging them to miss as few days as possible. However, do make sure your student stays home if they are sick. Visit the FCPS website for helpful insights regarding absences and how to work with your child and our school to minimize impacts on learning.

If your child has a chronic illness, make sure to let us know so we can provide assistance, if needed. 

Healthy Habits to Reduce the Spread of Flu and Other Germs

Fairfax County is seeing very high levels of influenza (flu) illness. Visits to emergency departments and urgent care centers for flu-like illness have increased, especially among children, and multiple flu outbreaks have occurred in our community and school settings.

Consider these tips from the Fairfax County Health Department to help reduce the spread of flu and other germs. 

Teletherapy for High School Students

No-Cost Mental Health Teletherapy for All 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. 

Become Unskippable: Share the Facts About Fentanyl With Teens

Talking with teens about the facts of fentanyl is a conversation you can’t skip. Learning about fentanyl gives teens a better understanding of the risks and effects of the drug, and what they can do to keep themselves and their communities safe. 

Share these important facts with your child:

• Even half a fentanyl-laced pill can be fatal. Just a few salt-sized grains of fentanyl are enough to cause an overdose.
• More than half of local street pills contain a deadly dose of fentanyl. As of 2023, seven in 10 counterfeit pills in the U.S. contain enough fentanyl to cause a fatal overdose.
• Fentanyl is usually taken accidentally. Many people have no idea they’ve taken it until they overdose because you can’t see, smell, or taste it in pills and powders.
• Overdose can happen in an instant. In as little as four minutes, the lack of oxygen can lead to brain damage and even death.

Learn more about how to have conversations with your child in a way that will make you Become Unskippable.