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Important Dates:
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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
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May 2- School Lunch Hero Day
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May 4-8- Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week
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May 6- National School Nurse Day
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May 8- School Communicators Day
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May 25- Memorial Day (No School)
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May 26- Teacher Work Day (No School for students)
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May 27- Eid al-Adha
- Jun 5- 2:00pm- Class of 2026 Graduation- Eagle Arena
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Jun 17- Last Day of School (Early Dismissal)
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Jun 18- Teacher work Day
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Jun 19- Juneteenth
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,
Before diving into this week’s updates, I want to share a moment that truly reflects what it means to be a Stallion. One of the highlights of my day is spending time in the cafeteria, connecting with students and hearing about what’s on their minds. This week, I had a meaningful conversation with three students about the new cell phone legislation set to begin on July 1, 2026 (more on that below). What stood out wasn’t just the topic itself, but the honesty, thoughtfulness, and mutual respect in how we discussed what it means for our school and how we will grow together as a community. I walked away from that conversation incredibly proud; moments like these are a powerful reminder of why South County is such a special place. Now, on to this week’s reflections …
Student and Staff Belonging
Cheers to 20 Years of SoCo Excellence
SoCo is excited to celebrate 20 incredible years of Stallion pride on Friday, May 1 at 6:00 PM! This milestone event will honor the legacy, achievements, and strong sense of community that have made SoCo such a special place over the past two decades. Please mark your calendars and get ready to join us as we celebrate what it truly means to be South County Stallions. Please plan to meet our student ambassadors at Door 12 for a guided building tour, along with several other celebratory activities.
Choice, Voice, and Stallion Connection
During Advisory Choice Day, students had the opportunity to select an activity that sparked their interest, from games and creative projects to friendly competitions. The energy across the building was electric as students connected with peers beyond their usual circles, building new friendships and strengthening existing ones. It was a powerful reminder that when students have voice and choice, our Stallion community grows even stronger together.
Drumroll to the Podium: A Bronze-Worthy Performance:
Last weekend, the South County Combined Drumline earned a bronze medal at the Winter Guard International World Championships in Dayton, Ohio with a score of 91.538—marking the first time the ensemble has medaled at this prestigious event and only the third FCPS group to do so. Comprised of students from South County, Hayfield, and West Potomac, this talented group has been perfecting their show, “Redacted,” since just before Thanksgiving, captivating audiences with its creative theme of obscured and disappearing elements. Under the direction of Grant Butters, and with the dedicated support of staff members Merold Saffa, Holden Brettell, Will Egger, Raatib Rahman, and Charlie Gorham, their hard work truly paid off on the world stage. Take a moment to celebrate this incredible achievement and check out their final performance here. Please take a second to celebrate this awesome group of students and check out their final performance here.
High Quality Instruction
I had the pleasure of observing Mr. Hockenbury Anatomy class this week. He is a fantastic example of a teacher who puts student’s needs first by offering different ways to learn. By connecting the heart dissection lab to previous lessons on the brain and eyes, he helped students see the "big picture" and build confidence as they tackled new, hands-on challenges. The classroom was full of energy as students worked in small teams, learning how to communicate and solve problems together while exploring science in action. Throughout the lesson, Mr. Hockenbury moved around the room to offer constant encouragement and helpful tips, ensuring every student feels supported and successful. We are very fortunate to have such a talented teacher as Mr. Hockenbury at SoCo!
School Culture:
New State Guidance on Cell Phone Use: Preparing for Senate Bill 108
Beginning July 1, 2026, Virginia Senate Bill 108 will require schools across the Commonwealth to enforce a consistent standard: students may not have cell phones in their possession or use them at any point during the school day, including in hallways and the cafeteria. In the meantime, we will continue to enforce our current FCPS cell phone policy—phones must be off and away during class and in transition between classes, and any student using a phone during these times will have it confiscated and returned at the end of the day.
Our goal is to approach this transition with clarity, consistency, and a shared commitment to maintaining a focused and respectful learning environment. We appreciate your partnership in helping students understand these expectations and avoid unnecessary consequences as we prepare for full implementation next school year.
An Evening of Expression: Art Gala Returns
Join us next Thursday for South County’s 3rd Annual Art Gala on April 30 from 6:00–7:30 PM in the Main Lobby and Library, an evening dedicated to celebrating the creativity and talent of our students. This free event is open to all, with the Kona Ice Truck on site along with popcorn and sweet treats to enjoy as you explore our students’ incredible work. Dress to impress and come experience a night that showcases the true artistry of our Stallion community!
A Night to Remember: Prom 2026
Prom is just around the corner on May 2, and excitement is building for one of the most memorable nights of the year. Tickets are currently on sale during all lunches; be sure to grab yours and secure your spot on the dance floor. Get ready to dress your best, celebrate with friends, and make memories that will last long after the music fades! For more information about Prom, click here.
Coach's Corner
As testing periods approach, our focus is on effective strategies for preparing for tests and projects. You can support your student at home by helping them create a study schedule, reviewing materials together, and encouraging them to seek clarification from teachers when needed. Emphasize that assessments are opportunities to demonstrate learning, not just a measure of intelligence, fostering a positive approach to evaluation.
Have a fantastic weekend!
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...
Spring SOL Testing Schedule
Spring SOL testing at South County High School begins in late April and continues through May.
Parents and students should review the full schedule for specific dates regarding English, Science, Math, and History exams, as well as information on modified bell schedules and laptop requirements.
For the complete 2026 testing calendar and detailed instructions, please click the link below:
South County HS SOL Testing Schedule & Information
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
Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener Results Now Available
Students in grades 3-12 took the SEL Screener during the month of March, providing information on their SEL skills like achieving goals, understanding and managing emotions, establishing and maintaining relationships, and making responsible decisions. The screener also asks students how well their school community makes them feel valued, included, and supported.
Individual student SEL Screener results are now available to families in the Documents section of SIS ParentVUE. For families who do not have an active ParentVUE account, we will share copies with you directly.
For support in understanding your individual student’s results or for ideas on how to support them at home, please review the Family Guide or reach out to our school staff with any questions.
Join us for the Girls Tennis Gold Out as the South County Stallions face the Fairfax Lions!
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When: Thursday, April 30 @ 4:00 PM
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Where: SCHS Tennis Courts
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Admission: FREE for SoCo students in a gold shirt!
See you there!
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 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
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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Food and Nutrition Newsletter Click here
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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