Annandale Students, Parents, and Community,
AVID is an elective class designed to help students—particularly those from traditionally underserved backgrounds—prepare for and succeed in college. Through a combination of academic support, tutoring, and personalized guidance, AVID equips students with the resources needed to thrive in rigorous courses and builds their understanding of higher education as a real, attainable goal.
At Annandale, enrollment in our AVID program has surged over the past five years. In 2020, 91 students were enrolled in AVID. Today, that number is 259, a 185% increase. Moreover, the number of seniors participating has grown four-fold, from just 25 in 2020 to 114 this year.
Not only do AVID students perform on SOL and IB assessments, they are active contributors to the Annandale community. Colleges recognize what they bring, and Annandale AVID graduates are earning admission to top-tier universities across the country, including UVA, Virginia Tech, Columbia, and the University of Chicago. But just as important as where they’re going, AVID graduates leave Annandale academically prepared, equipped to navigate a new environment, clear on how to find support when they need it, and connected to a community.
The AVID program reflects our shared belief that every student, regardless of background, deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential. That belief drives our work at Annandale, and it is why programs like AVID continue to thrive. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about our AVID program, please contact our AVID Coordinator, Laura Wells,
Have a great week, Atom Nation. As always, reach out with questions.
Shawn DeRose, Principal
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Parent Volunteers and Donations Needed!
The final weeks of the school year includes important events and opportunities to support Annandale High School through donations or volunteering. Detailed opportunities are listed below.
June 9 - Volunteers Needed for the All Night Grad Celebration: We also need volunteers to support the All Night Grad Celebration! Let's keep the legacy of this amazing event, providing a safe environment for our Seniors to celebrate their graduation. Sign up here to support the day of the event.
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End of Year Testing Calendar
Important Dates
May 25 - Memorial Day (No School)
May 26 - Teacher Workday (No School)
May 26 - Academic Coaching
May 27 - Eid al-Adha (No School)
May 28 - Senior Exams Begin
May 28 - Rising 9th Grade Activities Fair
May 30 - Saturday Academic Coaching
June 1 - Senior Picnic, 10am
June 1 - Annandale Physical Night
June 2 - Senior Sunset, 8pm
June 3 - Senior Awards, 10am
June 3 - All Athletes Celebration, 6pm
June 4 - Senior Cap & Gown Distribution
June 5 - Graduation Rehearsal
June 6 - Saturday Academic Coaching
June 8 - Graduation (Early Release, 10:30am)
June 8 - Graduation, 7pm
May 25 - Memorial Day (No School): All schools and offices will be closed on Monday, May 25, for the Memorial Day holiday. Learn about the history of Memorial Day. See the complete school year calendar.
May 26 - Teacher Workday (No School): Tuesday, May 26, is a teacher work day. There is no school for students. See the complete school year calendar.
May 27 - Eid al-Adha (No School): Eid al-Adha begins at sundown on Tuesday, May 26. Wednesday, May 27, is a holiday for Eid al-Adha and schools and offices are closed. See the complete school year calendar.
May 28 - What’s in the Backpack Presentation: On Thursday, May 28, from 5:30-7:00pm at the John R. Lewis High School in the Cafeteria. This session is specifically designed for families in the South County, Lewis, Hayfield, and Annandale pyramids to learn about current vaping trends and how to engage in healthy dialogue with their teens about substance use.
June 1 - Athletic Physical Exams: On Monday, June 1, Annandale High School will host an opportunity for student-athletes to complete their Pre-Participation Physical Exam (PPE) for the 2026-27 academic year. This exam will ensure eligibility for all sports through June 30, 2027. The event also serves as the primary fundraiser for the Annandale Athletic Training Program, which relies entirely on donations to cover essential medical supplies and equipment. Your support makes a tremendous difference for our athletes and trainers!
Appointments will run from 5:30pm to 7:30pm, and slots are expected to fill quickly, so don’t wait. Walk-in exams are $60; however, if you pre-register, the cost is reduced to $50. To take advantage of the discounted rate and secure your appointment, register today! Contact Ryan Hughes with any questions. Thank you for supporting our student-athletes and helping ensure a healthy, successful season ahead!
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Awesome Atoms
Congratulations to the 2026-2027 PTSA Executive Board! Congratulations to the newly elected 2026-2027 Annandale PTSA Executive Board: Angela Torres (President), Tiffany Nicholson (Vice President, Membership), Sarah Henken (Vice President, Programs), Jennifer Ellis (Secretary), and Amy Mahoney (Treasurer). We are grateful for their willingness to serve and lead in support of our students, staff, and families. We look forward to another great year of partnership and community support at Annandale High School.
Annandale Welcomes Distinguished Alumna Kelsey Knoche as Graduation Speaker: Kelsey Knoche, a proud Annandale alumna and accomplished leader in collegiate athletics, has been selected by the Class of 2026 Officers to serve as this year’s Annandale High School Graduation Speaker. Currently serving as the Director of Operations for the University of Virginia men’s basketball program, Ms. Knoche is one of only 15 women in the nation to hold this role on a men’s NCAA Division I basketball staff, a testament to her leadership and trailblazing impact in athletics.
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Harper Chapman Earns Mensa Honor Society Cord: Senior Harper Chapman recently earned the Mensa Honor Society graduation cord in recognition of her academic achievement, leadership, and service. Alongside competing in varsity volleyball and swim, Chapman founded Flo Club, helped choreograph Broadway Desserts, attended Virginia Girls State, and balanced a job throughout high school. This fall, she will attend Fordham University to study Economics on the pre-law track after earning both the Loyola Scholarship and the Roothbert Fund Scholarship.
Senior Courtyard Reopens After Renovations: The renovated Senior Courtyard officially reopened recently after being closed since early fall. The updated space now features garden boxes, additional seating, and a storage shed, creating a more welcoming environment for seniors during lunch.
Student Talent Takes Center Stage at Broadway Desserts: On Thursday and Friday, the AHS Choirs presented Broadway Desserts, featuring songs from the stage performed by all five choirs. This student-led event gave performers the opportunity to take ownership of their music, costumes, and choreography. Their thoughtful preparation and teamwork resulted in an enjoyable evening of music and creativity.
Finish Strong
End of Year Attendance Requirements: The last day of school for underclass students is Wednesday, June 17. With testing in full swing, there is still much going on in our classrooms. Teachers and teams are continuing to plan high quality instruction that will prepare students to be successful not only on final exams, but in the coming years. In some cases, students are working on certifications or other requirements for graduation. All students are expected to attend school each day to complete these activities and finish the year strong.
June 11-16, school will be held from 8:10-11:25am. During this time, students will complete their end of course exams. These culminating activities assess students’ mastery of the standards and skills they have been learning throughout the year.
Final Exams: In each class, the final exam or culminating activity counts for 10% of a student’s grade, regardless of the impact on the final grade. Per FCPS policy, a student whose absence from the final examination or activity is unexcused will receive an F for that examination. Exceptions to this must be approved by the principal. Final exams are not eligible for retakes.
It is important for students to recognize the impact their final exams will have on their grades, and take steps to prepare so they can do their best. In W4 Advisory, we held one-on-one check-ins with each student, reviewing their current grades, and helping them create a plan to prepare.
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Class of 2026 Information
Class of 2026 News: Graduation is quickly approaching and we wanted to share important information and dates that will assist seniors, parents and community members in preparing and planning for the end of the school year. Last week we sent out important information in our latest Class of 2026 Newsletter. If you have any questions about upcoming senior events, please contact our senior class sponsors, Erin Mahoney and Chase Cole or our senior class administrator, Jae Lee.
May 28 - June 2 - Senior Exams: Seniors will take their Senior Exams during their regularly scheduled class periods on May 28-June 2. Here is the full exam schedule: May 28: W6 & W8; May 29: R5 & R7; June 1: W2; June 2: R1 & R3. Seniors may leave school after their last exam that day.
May 28 - June 2 - Senior Laptop and Book Collection: Beginning Thursday, May 28, students who no longer need their FCPS issued laptop can return it at the Main Gym Lobby after each senior exam block. Once students have turned in their laptop and any school-issued books or supplies, they are dismissed from school.
June 1 - Senior Picnic, 9:35am: Immediately following the W2 exam, seniors will be released at 9:35am. Members of the Class of 2026 will gather in the Senior parking lot or Ossian Park to enjoy a light breakfast, and sign yearbooks. The event will end at 11:15am.
June 2 - Senior Sunset, 7pm: Senior Sunset will take place on June 2 from 7:00-9:00pm. Students are encouraged to come watch the sunset on the football field with music, drinks, and food to celebrate the last day of their senior year. In addition, students will have an opportunity to paint the spirit rock on this day.
June 3 - Senior Awards Ceremony: Our annual Senior Awards Ceremony will be held on June 3 from 10:00-11:15am at Annandale High School. This ceremony provides us an opportunity to recognize seniors who have demonstrated outstanding achievements in each content area, as well as celebrate those seniors who have been selected for community based awards and scholarships. We will provide more details as we get closer to the ceremony and will be communicating directly with the students and families of our award recipients. If you have questions or concerns, please email Viri Acosta.
June 8 - Graduation, 7:00pm: Graduation will be held on Monday, June 8, at 7:00pm at Eagle Bank Arena. This is a momentous occasion for our students and families. In addition, this event is a celebration of our collective efforts to support the Class of 2026 over the past four years. School will be in session for underclassmen from 8:10-10:25am. Students should report to their PRIDE Time (period 11) teacher at 8:10am. During this time, students will have an opportunity to work with their teachers on any missing assignments and prepare for upcoming finals.
Colleges and Universities Still Accepting Applications: The National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) has released its annual College Openings Update featuring postsecondary institutions that are still accepting applications from prospective first-year and transfer students for the fall 2026 semester. Students who need assistance applying for federal or state financial aid can schedule a free appointment with our partners at College Access Fairfax by emailing appointments@CollegeAccessFairfax.org. Support provided by your school or College Access Fairfax is free.
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Follow Us on Social Media
Stay connected with Annandale High School by following us on social media! It's the best way to keep up with our latest news, celebrate student achievements, and keep up with everything going on in #AtomNation.
Links: Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
Important Information
Student Testing Results Coming Soon: Throughout May and June, you will receive your child’s spring assessment results. If you aren’t sure what assessments your child took this year, there is a list of tests by grade level on the FCPS website. How the results are delivered depends on the test. Scores will be delivered in SIS ParentVUE or from the school or testing organization. Learn what to expect regarding assessment reporting practices and timelines. Visit FCPS’ website for additional information about how test results are reported to families. Individual test websites provide report translations and help for interpreting test results. Please contact us with any testing questions or for additional information about how we use test results to support student success.
IB Transcript Requests: Graduates who filled out the Senior Survey in May will have an IB transcript sent to the college that was listed in the survey. IB will send out transcripts in August either electronically or paper copy. If a student’s university plans have changed, students may request a transcript for a fee at any time. If you have questions, please contact Linda Bradshaw.
IB Scores Released: Information on how to obtain IB scores was emailed on March 18 from Linda Bradshaw, IB coordinator. Results will be posted after July 6th and can be found at https://candidates.ibo.org. Seniors were told to forward the email to a personal email address as fcps school accounts will be deactivated soon after graduation. Be sure to enter the PIN exactly as provided, including uppercase and lowercase letters, since it is case sensitive and changes each year. If you become locked out of the portal, wait a few hours before trying again. For the best experience, use either Chrome or Firefox. Please reach out to Linda Bradshaw, IB Diploma Coordinator, if you need login information or have questions.
Yearbook Distribution May 28 - June 5: Yearbook distribution is here! This year, yearbooks will be distributed to students between May 28 - June 5, before and after school, as well as in the cafeteria during their lunch period. If there are any questions or concerns, please reach out to Kylie Vera.
Underclassmen Keep Their Laptop Over The Summer! As we prepare for the end of the school year, we want to share an important update regarding student device collection. Beginning this year, Annandale High School will only be collecting devices from graduating seniors and students who are withdrawing. All other students will keep their assigned devices over the summer. This change is intended to help students maintain access to educational resources, summer learning opportunities, and school-related activities. As a reminder, students are responsible for properly caring for and securing the device over the summer. Devices must return with the student at the start of the next school year in good working condition. Students and families remain responsible for any obligations, fees, or fines related to lost, stolen, or damaged devices and accessories. If there are any concerns about keeping the device over the summer, students may turn in their device June 11-16 in room 328 after they have completed final exams.
SOL Retake Support: At Annandale, we are proud that we have many systems in place to support our students. To that end, when students do not pass their first-attempt SOLs, we double down on our academic support during class time and through PRIDE Time and ASAP to ensure students are successful with additional testing opportunities. Students who qualify for a retake (and their families) will receive an email with information about the retake date as well as the additional support we will provide. Please reach out to your student’s teachers with any questions you may have.
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Opportunities
All Night Grad Tickets On Sale Now! Tickets are now on sale for this year’s All Night Grad Celebration, a long-standing Annandale High School tradition made possible by the Annandale High School PTSA and the parent community. This safe, fun, and adult-supervised event is entirely volunteer-run and provides seniors with a memorable way to celebrate together.
The All Night Grad Celebration will take place on June 9, beginning at 11:00 PM, with doors closing at midnight. Tickets are available for $55 but will increase to $65 soon. Students can look forward to great food, games, a DJ, top-notch entertainment, and exciting door prizes, including computers and televisions.
Discounted tickets are available for students in need, and interested students are encouraged to speak with their school counselor for more information. Parent volunteers are also essential to the success of this event, and families are encouraged to sign up to help if they are able. Email Annandale.angc@gmail.com with any questions.
Free Bus Passes Available: All Fairfax County middle and high school students can get a Student Bus Pass SmarTrip card to ride the Fairfax Connector and Fairfax CUE buses for free! With the pass, fares are free from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week, all year. Learn more about the Student Pass and access the application, which can be returned to the front office. Additionally, our students can ride Metrobus for free. Visit the Fairfax County website for details and approved Metrobus routes and to access the application. Children 12 and younger ride for free on the Fairfax Connector with a paying adult. It’s not just for kids! Fairfax Connector’s Transit Ridership Incentive Program (TRIP) provides 50% off fares for low-income residents ages 18-65. Learn more about the TRIP program and how to apply.
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News from Students Services
No-Cost Virtual Therapy for High School Students: Virtual therapy sessions are available to FCPS high school students at no cost to provide a safe space to address concerns such as: Mood/behavior changes, motivation, grief/loss; Anxiety, worry, fears; Social skills, bullying, peer and family relationships; Academic stress.
Students can be referred by a guardian or designated school staff member. You may refer your child by calling 571-749-2940 or by contacting our school counselor, social worker, psychologist, or director of Student Services. Visit the FCPS Teletherapy webpage for more information.
Earn Credit Toward Graduation This Summer: 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. For more information, visit this Summer Learning page.
Summer is also an excellent time for high school students to fulfill the Economics and Personal Finance graduation requirement through the self-directed course option. In this format, students work independently to complete all course requirements while maintaining flexibility over the summer months. For additional details and registration information, please visit the Summer Learning information page.
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 8:30am to 2:00pm. 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.
College & Career Planning Site: Check out Student Services: Annandale High School | Schoology (fcps.edu), which offers a variety of postsecondary planning resources including the college application process, community college, military and trade pathways, financial aid and scholarship opportunities. The Student Services Team also uses this platform to share updates on new college and career opportunities, so be sure to check it regularly for the latest information. Parents should use SIS ParentVUE account to login.
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News from the Activities Office
At Annandale, we foster belonging both inside and outside the classroom. Sports and activities are another way for students to deepen a sense of belonging at school. Check out their weekly newsletter to learn more about Annandale's activities, clubs and sports programs. You can also visit their website, AHS Athletics Twitter or Instagram page.
June 1 - Athletic Physical Exams: On Monday, June 1, Annandale High School will host an opportunity for student-athletes to complete their Pre-Participation Physical Exam (PPE) for the 2026-27 academic year. This exam will ensure eligibility for all sports through June 30, 2027. The event also serves as the primary fundraiser for the Annandale Athletic Training Program, which relies entirely on donations to cover essential medical supplies and equipment. Your support makes a tremendous difference for our athletes and trainers!
Appointments will run from 5:30pm to 7:30pm, and slots are expected to fill quickly, so don’t wait. Walk-in exams are $60; however, if you pre-register, the cost is reduced to $50. To take advantage of the discounted rate and secure your appointment, register today! Contact Ryan Hughes with any questions. Thank you for supporting our student-athletes and helping ensure a healthy, successful season ahead!
Support Annandale Athletics: Donate to Atoms Sports: The Annandale Atoms Sports Fundraiser helps generate financial support for our athletic programs. Our student-athletes spend many long hours preparing to be the best they can be, and they are very deserving of our community’s support. Donations go directly toward helping our teams obtain the equipment and resources they need to get their seasons up and running. We appreciate any amount you are able to give and thank you in advance for your generosity. Go Atoms!
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News from the PTSA
Support the PTSA Pantry: For seven years, the AHS PTSA Pantry has supported Annandale families facing food insecurity thanks to the generosity of the Annandale community. What began as a small initiative has grown into a vital resource for many students and families. Community members can continue supporting the pantry in a variety of ways, including becoming a Red Bag donor through Food for Neighbors, volunteering to assist with food pick-ups or distribution events, donating needed items through the pantry Amazon Wishlist, or making a financial contribution to help keep pantry shelves stocked throughout the year. Every contribution directly supports Annandale students and families in need.
Celebrate Your Senior with a Yard Sign! Recognize your student's hard work and determination by displaying a graduation sign in your yard. Each sign sold helps support PTSA initiatives like student scholarships, teacher and student grants, events like the All Night Grad Celebration, teacher appreciation activities, and more! Purchase your sign here - $15 picked up, or $20 delivered. Signs will be ready for pickup/delivery during the first week of May.
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Show Your Atom Spirit!
Whether you're an alum, a current student, a future Atom, or a proud parent, show your Atom pride with gear from the Atoms Online Store! Featuring brands like Nike, Under Armour, and Lululemon, the store offers hundreds of customizable designs for all ages. With direct-to-door shipping, it's the perfect time to surprise your favorite Atom or treat yourself an end of year gift.
Annandale Summer Camps
Looking for fun activities for your child this summer? Annandale High School is offering a variety of summer camps this year for current elementary and middle school students led by our own Annandale coaches. Help spread the word to friends, family, and neighbors! More information can be found at AnnandaleAtoms.net.
Campers can bring their lunch or purchase lunch at camp, and they should bring a snack, and a water bottle each day. Cash or checks are accepted. Checks should be made out to “Annandale Athletic Boosters”. Payment is due on the first day of camp or can be made online by clicking on the camps link below.
Olympics Camp - June 22-26: Campers will have fun playing a variety of sports including basketball, kickball, volleyball, soccer, and touch football. They will participate in fun contests and win medals! Campers can bring their lunch or purchase lunch at camp. To register for Olympics Camps, click HERE. For questions about Olympics Camp, please reach out to Christopher Bagot.
Wrestling Camp - July 6-10: Annandale is hosting a 5-day camp with Purler Wrestling Academy! Open to ALL Wrestlers age 7-18; THERE ARE ONLY 100 SLOTS! It is recommended that your child pack their lunch; however, the concession stand will be open during breaks to sell pizza and other items.
Participants will get 20 Hours of Drill time and 40 Matches worth of live competition. These small-group, drill-intensive camps have a proven track record! Camp includes FREE access to the Purler Wrestling Video Series for all those that complete camp ($200 value)! To register for wrestling camp, click HERE. For questions about the wrestling camp, reach out to Josh Damico.
Boys & Girls Basketball - July 20-24: Campers will spend each day focused on developing their basketball skills. They will also receive a t-shirt and a chance to win trophies. Campers can bring their lunch or purchase lunch at camp. Hours are 9am to 3pm. We accept early drop-offs at 8:00am and late pickups at 4:00pm. To register for basketball camp click HERE. For questions about Basketball Camp please reach out to Jerome McAvoy and Chelsea Harrison.
Baseball Skills Camp - August 10-14: This camp is designed for 3rd - 9th graders and will be held on the baseball field at Annandale High. Focus will be on preparation for fall season and overall skill development. Camp will be conducted by Annandale High School Coaches and current college baseball players. Camp will run from 5pm-7pm. To register for the Baseball Skills Camp, click HERE. Questions? Reach out to head baseball coach and camp director Kevin Rudd
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