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April Statewide Election: No School for Students
There will be no school for students on Tuesday, April 21, for the Virginia statewide election. Student activities, athletic practices, and events may proceed as scheduled.
Fairfax County Public Schools will still exceed the required number of instructional hours for students, as set by the Virginia Department of Education.
Important Dates:
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Apr 19-25- National Library Week
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Apr 21- Statewide Election (No School for students)
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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’re excited to welcome you to another great week at South County High School, where our focus remains on connection, growth, and student success. Each day, our students and staff continue to build a community rooted in respect, belonging, and high expectations. Thank you for your ongoing partnership and support; it truly makes a difference for every student we serve. Now, on to this week’s reflections …
Student and Staff Belonging
Your Moment, Your Mic: Graduation Speaker Audition Debuts!
For the first time, all seniors have the exciting opportunity to take the stage and share their story at graduation through our new Graduation Speaker Audition. Members of the Class of 2026 can submit an original 5-minute speech and required form to Ms. Palaschak in Room C200 by 3:15 PM on April 20, with selected students advancing through multiple rounds to earn the honor of addressing their class. Full details and guidelines are available in the Class of 2026 Schoology Group under Resources → “Student Graduation Speaker”; we can’t wait to hear the powerful voices of our seniors!
Checked Out & Checked In: Why We Love Our Library!
In celebration of National Library Week next week, our students and staff shared what makes our library such a special place, and the responses say it all. Students described it as a welcoming haven filled with opportunity, from discovering new favorite books to simply enjoying a space that feels open and inviting to all. Staff echoed that appreciation, highlighting not only the resources, but especially our incredible librarians, Ms. Strong and Ms. Romney, whose warmth, support, and dedication truly make the library the heart of our school. SoCo loves our Librarians!
School Culture
Living Our Core Values
At South County High School, our Core Values—Curiosity, Hope, Trust, and Honesty—guide how we learn, lead, and support one another each day. This week, we are proud to celebrate students who bring these values to life in meaningful and inspiring ways across our community.
Yailia Montanez– Trust Yailia was selected as a shining example of Trust, demonstrating that it’s not just something earned over time, but something that can be generously extended to others. Through her collaboration, she empowers those around her to rise to the occasion, building stronger relationships and a deeper sense of connection. Her actions remind us that trust can be both a gift and a catalyst for growth.
Caeley Flanagan – Honesty Caeley was nominated by a peer who highlighted her as a true model of honesty and integrity. She consistently offers clear, constructive feedback to classmates and speaks truthfully both inside and outside the classroom. Her character sets a powerful example of authenticity and accountability for others to follow.
Sophia – Curiosity Sophia embodies curiosity through her willingness to try new things and step outside her comfort zone. Whether exploring new sports or tackling challenges in the classroom, she approaches each opportunity with determination and a strong work ethic. Her drive to grow and learn is evident in everything she does.
Jackson Bellaire – Curiosity Jackson exemplifies curiosity at the highest level, combining a passion for learning with a deep desire to understand and address complex global issues. Known for their kindness and ability to connect with others, Jackson builds trust effortlessly while pursuing knowledge with purpose. Their acceptance to Dartmouth reflects not only academic excellence, but a commitment to making a meaningful impact in the world.
Will Currier – Trust Will consistently demonstrates trust through his respectful and positive approach to every situation. Even when faced with a misunderstanding, he responded with grace and cooperation, showing maturity beyond his years. His kindness and integrity contribute to a classroom environment that is both supportive and joyful.
Mr. Mason - Hope
Mr. Mason consistently brings a positive, encouraging presence to both staff and students. Though humble and never seeking attention, his strong work ethic and engaging personality speak for themselves, and we are fortunate to have him at South County.
Unmask the Magic: Prom Countdown Begins!
The mystery is unfolding and excitement is building as we enter the final stretch toward the Class of 2026 Masquerade Prom! Tickets for this unforgettable “Night of Disguise” are now on sale for $65; don’t miss your chance to be part of an evening full of elegance, energy, and celebration. As we prepare for this special night, we are also working to close a $4,000 gap through our “Wall of Mystery” fundraising campaign, where every contribution helps bring the vision to life. Community members can select envelopes ranging from $5 to $250, with Royal Patrons ($75+) earning special recognition on the Prom Page. Let’s come together to reach our goal and create a magical night our seniors will never forget! For answers to all questions about Prom, feel free to reach out to our amazing sponsors, Ms. Reid & Ms. Anderson.
Spring Into Spirit: Pep Rally Energy in Full Bloom!
Our Spring Pep Rally brought the entire school together for an unforgettable celebration of spirit, pride, and community. From high-energy music performances to crowd-roaring competitions, the gym was filled with excitement and connection at every turn. It was a powerful reminder that when we come together, our Stallion spirit truly shines.
Club Corner
Our Animal Allies Club is making a meaningful impact by supporting local animals and caring for our community, one project at a time. From creating pet blankets and toys to cleaning up litter and maintaining the pond behind the cafeteria for our duck houses, this dedicated group is turning compassion into action through regular service. Students can join the mission through the Schoology group and membership form, and donations of gardening tools, grabbers, and pet supplies are always welcome to help keep the work going strong!
Thanks for being part of our incredible community; together, we’re not just finishing strong, we’re schooling it every step of the way!
Kambar
#StandingStrongFor20Years!
SCHS Leadership is planning for an International Teacher Appreciation for our amazing staff! We would love some community help to make this a success. There are a couple ways you can help:
On Monday we are starting the week with grab & go "Carry-On" bags. If you would like to contribute to this there is an amazon wish list and all items will be sent to South County
https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/20E3J8Y0703UA...
On Tuesday we are hosting an International Food Festival in the lobby for the staff. We are hoping our clubs and families will share their culture with the staff. If you would like to bring in a food or drink sample, please sign up on the SUG below. We do not need large samples--think costco sample sizes (we can cut items for you if needed)
https://www.signupgenius.com/.../10C094CA9AA2FA0FD0...
Every year the leadership students and families create raffle baskets for our staff members. We typically have about 18 to raffle but we would love to raffle more! If you would like to contribute a basket to raffle along with our, it would be greatly appreciated!
https://www.signupgenius.com/.../10C094CA9AA2FA0FD0...
National Library Week
We are excited to announce that National Library Week is just around the corner, running from April 19th through April 25th. This year's theme, "Find Your Joy," highlights the pivotal role our library plays in fueling student curiosity and connecting them to the tools they need to succeed.
At South County High School, our library is more than just a room full of books—it’s a dynamic hub for innovation, research, and community.
Resources & Programs Available to Students
Our library program is designed to support both academic excellence and personal growth. Here is a look at what our Stallions have access to every day:
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Digital & Print Collections: Beyond our extensive physical book collection, students have 24/7 access to eBooks and databases for academic and personal use.
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Research & Literacy Support: Our librarians collaborate with classroom teachers across content areas on projects, helping students navigate academic integrity and find credible sources.
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Community Service: The library facilities a community service project for students to make and donate pet blankets to the local Lorton Animal Shelter (almost 100 so far this year!).
How You Can Help
The best way to support your student during National Library Week is to encourage them to visit the library before school, during their lunch, or Stallion Time. Whether they are looking for a quiet place to study or their next favorite novel, they can find it at the library!
We are so proud of the vibrant reading culture here at South County. Thank you for your continued support in making our library the heart of the school!
Parents – WE NEED YOU!!! - AP Testing Parent Volunteers
The Testing Office is in need of parent volunteers to help support Advanced Placement (AP) Testing from May 4 through May 15. Volunteers would support the Student Services staff in checking in students, distributing tests, and supporting test security during the exams. To avoid conflicts of interest, we ask that parents do not volunteer during their own student’s exam. Please go to the Sign-Up Genius linked below to volunteer:
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60B0A4FABA82FA0FE3-63591253-aptesting
Note: Per FCPS Policy, all volunteers must create a profile through the Volunteeer FCPS Portal as a level 1 volunteer. This must be completed at least 24 hours before your first volunteer assignment.
👕 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
Sweet Notes
Available for Pre-Purchase Now
Sweet Notes are a wonderful way to recognize your favorite cast and crew members with a small, thoughtful gesture.
They are available for purchase at the Concessions Stand during each performance. To save time, you can also pre-order your Sweet Notes in advance. Pre-sales for each performance close at 11:59 PM the day prior.
Simply visit our Square site to place your order and ensure your Sweet Note is ready for delivery on the night of the show!
To purchase follow this link: https://southcountytheatre.square.site/shop/sweet-notes-flowers/LWMZUIQJU6TDX7DGGMNIZMYX
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Bibbidi-Bobbidi 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 pals.
- Get Crafty: Design custom wands and get fancy with 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)
👉 Signup Here: Bibbidi-Bobbidi SignUp
Strike Support
👉 We need parent volunteers for dismantling the show from 1:30 - 5:00 PM on April 26th. All that is required is a willingness to lend a hand!
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Theatre Banquet
Important Updates!
Celebrate the 2025-26 Theatre sSeason with us at our Mamma Mia! themed End of Year Banquet! Join us as we honor our incredible students, recognize outstanding achievements, and give our seniors a heartfelt send-off as they take their final bow.
🎭 Your ticket includes:
- A delicious dinner featuring salad, breadsticks, a pasta bar, and dessert
- Student entertainment, including a fun and memorable skit
- A special awards presentation celebrating the year’s highlights
🎟 Admission:
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Free for theatre students (RSVP is required)
- $10 per family member
Come for the food, stay for the memories, and help us close out the season in style! Door Open at 6:30 pm, Banquet starts at 7:00 pm.
Theatre Students Signup via this Theatre Student Google Form Signup
Family Members can purchase tickets via this link: https://southcountytheatre.square.site/shop/banquet/7
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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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Theatre Booster Meeting
Wednesday, April 29th at 6:30pm
Black Box Theatre Classroom
We are holding our May booster meeting a week early to support Banquet Planning! 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 SCHS Theatre Board
- 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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Events Calendar
Check out upcoming events in the SCHS Theatre Department!
A few dates to take note of:
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Apr 18, 20-22: Tech Rehearsals and Meals
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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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Apr 29: Booster Meeting
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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
Join Our Crew
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.
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. The theme will be Mamma Mia! This even is for students and families. The event is free for students and $10 for each family member. Additional details will be forthcoming including instructions on how to reserve and obtain tickets.
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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:
ATHLETICS CORNER
🎗️ Go Gold for the Stallions!
Join us on Tuesday, April 21st at 6:30 PM for our Gold Out game against the Alexandria City Titans! We’re playing in support of the Emma Jordon Kidz Fighting Cancer Foundation.
Let’s pack the stands and show our support for a great cause. See you there! 🥎✨
🥍 Boys Lacrosse Stallion Invitational: GOLD OUT!
Support a great cause and cheer on the Stallions!
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When: Saturday, April 25, 2026 | 10 AM – 6 PM
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Where: SCHS Stadium Complex
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Benefit: Kidz Fighting Cancer Foundation
FREE ADMISSION for all SoCo Students wearing a GOLD SHIRT!
See you on the field!
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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