|
English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو
Important Dates:
-
May 4-8- Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week
-
May 6- National School Nurse Day
-
May 8- School Communicators Day
-
May 25- Memorial Day (No School)
-
May 26- Teacher Work Day (No School for students)
-
May 27- Eid al-Adha
- Jun 5- 2:00pm- Class of 2026 Graduation- Eagle Arena
-
Jun 17- Last Day of School (Early Dismissal)
-
Jun 18- Teacher work Day
-
Jun 19- Juneteenth
SCHS ATTENDANCE INFORMATION 2025-26
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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,
I can’t believe it; we’re already in May, and time has certainly flown by this year. It feels like just yesterday we opened our doors in August, and since then our halls have been filled with moments that define who we are: growth, achievement, and the relationships that make South County feel like home. As we enter the final stretch, there’s pride in how far we’ve come and excitement for what’s ahead. Let’s take a look at this past week’s memories…
Student and Staff Belonging
Leading the Pack
I had the opportunity to attend my first Student Athlete Leadership Council meeting, and I was truly impressed! Our conversation centered on what real leadership looks like, often behind the scenes, doing the difficult things others may avoid and consistently encouraging teammates to be their best. What stood out most was the maturity in the discussion; our student-athletes spoke with thoughtfulness, honesty, and a clear understanding of the responsibility that comes with leadership. I left the meeting incredibly proud of how they represent our school, not just through their performance, but through their character and commitment to one another.
A Ball to Remember: A Royal Night on the SoCo Stage
Last Saturday, I had the pleasure of attending a sold-out performance of Cinderella presented by our incredible Theater Department, and it was nothing short of outstanding. From the captivating performances to the stunning set design and seamless production, it was one of the finest showcases of student talent I’ve seen. Our theater program continues to be one of the strongest cornerstones of South County, and I couldn’t be prouder of the passion, dedication, and excellence our students bring to the stage.
Serving Up Gratitude: Celebrating Our Cafeteria Champions
During Cafeteria Appreciation Week, we proudly recognize the incredible team that keeps our school fueled each day with nutritious meals and a warm smile. Their hard work behind the scenes ensures that both students and staff are ready to learn, teach, and thrive. We are also grateful to our PTSO for their thoughtful gifts of appreciation, helping us celebrate a team that truly serves as the heart of our school community.
A Canvas of Creativity: Masterpieces in Motion
This week’s third annual Art Gala was nothing short of extraordinary; a vibrant tapestry of talent that transformed our space into a living gallery of imagination. From stunning ceramics to captivating photography, expressive paintings, and intricate drawings, each piece told a story that our student artists brought to life by sharing their inspiration and artistic journeys. Our art program continues to be a centerpiece of creativity at South County, and this event was a brilliant reminder that when passion meets purpose, our students create nothing less than masterpieces.
Senior Night Spotlight: Celebrating Our Stallion Standouts
Congratulations to all of our sports teams who celebrated Senior Nights this past week, honoring a truly exceptional group of student-athletes. From Boys Tennis to Girls Lacrosse to Girls Soccer, these talented Stallions have demonstrated remarkable commitment, resilience, and heart at every practice and competition. We are incredibly proud of the legacy they leave behind and the example they’ve set for the next generation of Stallions.
Driving Our Day Forward
During Bus Driver Appreciation Week, we proudly recognize the incredible individuals who safely transport our students each day and greet them with a steady, welcoming presence. Their commitment to safety and their ability to build positive connections with students set the tone for a great start and end to every school day. We are also grateful to our PTSO for providing thoughtful gifts of appreciation as we celebrate these true heroes of our school community.
High Quality Instruction
Mrs. Cameron’s AP Literature students recently practiced their analytical skills by diving deep into poetry through both independent and group work. Students first took time to carefully mark up and reflect on the poems on their own before teaming up with their neighbors to compare ideas and build on each other's thoughts. By moving around the room and checking in with every group, Mrs. Cameron was able to answer questions on the spot and ensure every student felt confident in their understanding. The lesson wrapped up with a lively class discussion where different groups shared their unique perspectives, showing just how much they can achieve when they learn from one another. We are grateful for Mrs. Cameron’s thoughtful instruction and her commitment to creating a classroom where every student feels supported, challenged, and inspired to think deeply.
School Culture
Global Greatness: Stallions Shine on the World Stage
We have some incredible news to share from the world stage of DECA! Please join me in celebrating Gideon Abebe, Shreya Soni, and Mateen Zekrya, who, as a team, placed in the Top 20 in the world at the international DECA marketing competition in International Business—what an extraordinary accomplishment! As part of their project, they developed a 20-page business plan and delivered a dynamic presentation outlining the expansion of HelloFresh into South Korea, identifying it as a strong, untapped market with little direct competition. Let’s give a huge round of applause to these Stallions for representing South County with excellence on the global stage; their hard work, talent, and dedication make us all proud.
Celebrating Culture, Community, and Cuisine
We are excited for our upcoming Asian Night Market on May 29 from 6–8 PM, where our students will bring culture to life through incredible food, engaging activities, and vibrant performances. This special evening is a celebration of the rich diversity within our community and an opportunity for everyone to come together, learn, and enjoy. We hope you’ll join us for this unforgettable experience as our students proudly share their heritage and create a night filled with connection, culture, and celebration. Get your tickets for only $10, found on the QR code in this image.
 |
As we reflect on another incredible week at South County, I’m reminded of the pride, passion, and perseverance that define our school community. As I write this at 1:00pm on Friday, we have not yet celebrated our 20th anniversary, scheduled for 6:00pm this evening, but I look forward to sharing reflections from that special event in next week’s newsletter. From the classroom to the stage, the field to the global stage, our students and staff continue to exemplify excellence in all that they do. Thank you for all you do to support one another and make this such a special place to learn and grow. Together, we are Standing Strong for 20 years, and the best is still ahead.
Kambar
#StandingStrongFor20Years!
Teacher Appreciation Week
Next week is Teacher Appreciation Week! Leadership is hosting a fundraiser to celebrate our Staff Members. You can purchase a balloon bouquet on MSB and Leadership will deliver the bouquet to the designated staff member next week. For a purchase to be complete, you need to make the purchase on MSB then complete the google form with all the necessary information for delivery.
MSB LINK:[https://www.myschoolbucks.com/ver2/prdembd...](https://www.myschoolbucks.com/ver2/prdembd...)
GOOGLE FORM: https://forms.gle/vgsSqN9ttAZiiWkD9
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...
PTSO TEACHER APPRECIATION
We are celebrating our amazing teachers and staff with an appreciation lunch again this year! The PTSO will be catering a lunch from Yafa Grille for all staff on May 8th and we could use some help with supplies, drinks, sides and a candy dessert bar.
Please help us thank our teachers and show our appreciation for all that they do for our students by signing up here, https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60B0548AFA82DA6FE3-63620052-staff
Thank you!
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.
Rising 9th Grade
Know a rising 9th grade student who is interested in STEM? Please share this with them!
Save the date, July 27-29th, 2026. Get a head start on high school success with our Freshman STEM Jumpstart Summer Program! Dive into hands-on projects, connect with future classmates, and explore exciting fields in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. Build confidence, develop essential skills, and ensure a smooth, confident transition into your freshman year. For more information or to register, please see the flyer or email Mrs. Day Javkhlan, Dean of Students. aadayjavkhla@fcps.edu
👕 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 or Mrs. K skrishnamurt@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.
Celebrate Asian Night at South County High School
Join us for an unforgettable evening as South County students host a vibrant Night Market celebrating Asian culture! This event is open to everyone in the community and promises a night filled with immersive experiences.
📅 Event Details
Don't miss this chance to support our students and experience the rich diversity of Asian heritage right here at South County. We’ll see you there!
 |
 |
 |
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:
-
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
|
|
|
|
Events Calendar
Check out upcoming events in the SCHS Theatre Department!
A few dates to take note of:
-
May 1: Theatre Scholarship Applications Due (Seniors Only)
-
May 8: End of Year Banquet
SCHS Theatre Calendar Link
|
|
|
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
|
|
|
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.
|
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
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
People with ancestral roots in Asia and the islands of the Pacific have been integral to the story of America. In 1992, May was designated Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month to celebrate their heritage and contributions.Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.
|
Mental Health Awareness Month
Mental Health Awareness Month is about more than awareness. It’s about showing up for one another. It provides a chance to stand with your community and show that no one struggles alone. Everyone is invited to speak up against mental health stigma. Learn more about Mental Health Awareness Month on the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) website.
|
Jewish American Heritage Month
May is a national month of recognition of the history of Jewish contributions to American culture, acknowledging the diverse achievement of the Jewish community in the U.S. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.
|
May 6- National School Nurse Day
National School Nurse Day is Wednesday, May 6. It is a day to recognize the many contributions that school nurses make to student health and learning.
FCPS appreciates the role of School Public Health Nurses (PHNs) for their contribution to the health and welfare of all our students. Professional school nurses support the needs of students through their delivery of healthcare, contributions to local school communities, and promotion of safety, prevention, and wellness throughout the year. They are advocates who bridge healthcare and education by supporting student health and readiness to learn. School nurses are essential to our community and work tirelessly to make a positive impact in the lives of their students.
Please join us in thanking the PHNs for their hard work and dedication to FCPS students.
|
May 27- Eid al-Adha Holiday
Eid al-Adha begins at sundown on Thursday, May 26. Wednesday, May 27, is a holiday for Eid al-Adha and schools and offices are closed. See the complete school year calendar.
|
Important SoCo and FCPS Resources
How to Stay In Touch
Please stay in touch with us throughout the year by:
Quick Links
|
