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August 18, 20, 21 - Health Room Summer Collection Dates
August 20 (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM) - Freshman & New Student Orientation
August 20 (6:00 PM - 7:00 PM) - New Student Parent Information Night
August 24 - First Day of School
August 26 (5:00 PM - 8:00 PM) - Back to School Night
August 26 (5:00 PM - 6:00 PM) - Senior Parent Meeting
September 10 (3:30 PM - 6:00 PM) - Celebrate McLean
September 10 (7:00 PM) - First Home Football Game
Upcoming Events
August 18, 20, 21 - Health Room Summer Collection Dates
The Health Room will be open to accept health forms and medications on the following dates:
- Tuesday, August 18th (1 PM - 5 PM)
- Thursday, August 20th (10 AM - 2 PM)
- Friday, August 21st (7:30 AM - 12:00 PM)
See the Weekly Reminders section below for more details.
August 20 (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM) - Freshman & New Student Orientation
Our annual new student orientation will be held on Thursday, August 20th, 2026 from 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM. Orientation is for 9th grade students and transfer students. Transportation will be provided for all students with stops at Longfellow Middle School and base elementary schools. Students may also be dropped off and picked up at McLean High School at Door 1. During the program, students will hear from administrators, counselors, and McLean student leaders. Student Chromebooks will be distributed. We are looking forward to welcoming our Class of 2030 and our transfer students to the McLean community!
In order for new students to check out their McLean HS Chromebook and charger, all devices/chargers belonging to another school must be returned to that designated location prior to New Student Orientation. If students still have a device and/or charger not returned to another FCPS school, they will not receive their McLean device until that has been returned and checked in.
August 20 (6:00 PM - 7:00 PM) - New Student Parent Information Night
We will hold an information night for parents of 9th grade students and transfer students to McLean on Thursday, August 20th from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM. We will review topics such as schedules, communications, extra-curricular activities, and high school credits.
August 24 - First Day of School
School begins on August 24th at 8:10 am. Plan to arrive at least 5 minutes early to navigate Open Gate and be in your first class on time. back-to-school tips. Check out these back-to-school tips to make sure your child gets off to a great start. See the complete school year calendar.
August 26 (5:00 PM - 8:00 PM) - Back to School Night
All students and families are invited to our Back to School Night. From 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM, you may buy McLean gear, buy Booster PTSA passes, sign-up to become a member of the PTSA, learn about Family Life Education (FLE) in grades 9-12, and meet our different school support personnel (our Librarian, Technology Specialist, and our Assessment Coach).
Parents will have an opportunity to go through their child’s schedule class by class and hear a presentation about the class from teachers. Parking will be limited and we encourage parents to carpool or walk if within walking distance. More detailed information will be shared closer to the event date.
August 26 (5:00 PM - 6:00 PM) - Senior Parent Meeting
Parents of Seniors! Please join us at our annual Senior Parent Night from 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM on August 26th in the Auditorium. In this meeting we will share upcoming events and information to be aware of related to post-secondary planning, with an emphasis on how best to support your student as they engage in the college application process. Parents can then transition to our Back-to-School-Night schedule following this presentation.
September 10 (3:30 PM - 6:00 PM) - Celebrate McLean
All students and families are invited to stop by to learn about club and extra-curricular offerings, enjoy some food trucks, and games. This is a great time for us to come together and celebrate the school year ahead! All students from our school pyramid are welcome to attend!
September 10 (7:00 PM) - First Home Football Game
After Celebrate McLean, join us for the first home football game of the season on September 10th at 7:00 PM where our Highlanders face off against the Falls Church Jaguars.
Student Achievement
Do you know a student, club, or team that has done something amazing? We want to hear about it! We're looking for accomplishments big or small to feature on the school website and in our weekly newsletter. Whether it's an academic achievement, an athletic victory, a creative project, or an act of community service, we want to shine a spotlight on the incredible things happening at McLean. Please fill out our Google Form to submit an accomplishment. To see a full list of student accomplishments, check out the Student Recognitions page on the McLean website.
Principal's Corner
Dear McLean High School Community,
I hope you and your families are having a wonderful, relaxing summer filled with joyful moments and time to recharge.
As we approach the end of summer break, it is my pleasure to welcome you to the 2026–2027 school year! The start of a new school year always brings a sense of energy, excitement, and fresh possibilities, and our faculty and staff have been hard at work preparing to make this year extraordinary for all of our Highlanders.
Please mark your calendars: the first day of school is Monday, August 24, 2026.
To help you and your student prepare for a smooth transition back to the building, we have attached our comprehensive Back to School Kit to this letter. In it, you will find essential information regarding schedules, logistics, key dates, policies, and resources for the upcoming year. Please take some time to review these materials together over the coming days. Student schedules will be able to be viewed on August 20th at 9:00 AM through ParentVue/StudentVue. Please remember, schedules discovered through any platforms other than SIS should be considered unofficial and subject to change.
I sincerely hope you each enjoy these final weeks of summer break. On behalf of the entire leadership team and staff, I want to emphasize just how eager and excited we are to welcome our students back to McLean High School. We cannot wait to see their faces in our halls once again!
Warmest regards,
Raven N. Jones
Principal, McLean High School
Go Highlanders!
Back-to-School Information
Class Schedules
Schedules will be available for viewing on August 20th at 9:00 AM through ParentVue and StudentVue. Schedules discovered through any platforms other than SIS should be considered unofficial and subject to change.
Updated Building Hours
Our building will open for students at 7:40 AM Monday through Friday, and close to students without an escort or pre-arranged reason for being in the building at 3:10 PM each day.
Administration Updates
We want to congratulate Emily Bradshaw on her appointment as the new Assistant Principal at Cooper Middle School! While we will deeply miss her at McLean, we are grateful for her invaluable contributions and wish her the very best in her new endeavor.
Please welcome Corey Bowerman as he fills in for our Assistant Principal vacancy. Corey comes with a diverse background in administration. He was a Director of Student Activities at Langley High School for six years before serving two years as an Assistant Principal. Mr. Bowerman will be working with students whose last names are from Enn-Le.
Weapons Screening System
As part of the ongoing commitment to strengthening layered safety and security programs, Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) will continue to phase in a weapons detection system at all secondary schools this fall. Please see Dr. Reid’s introductory video here.
FCPS is implementing additional safety and security measures at all varsity football games.
As we prepare for another exciting fall sports season, FCPS is implementing additional safety and security measures at all varsity football games.
Beginning this season, all spectators will participate in security screenings using the same weapons detection technology introduced in our middle and high schools last school year. A standardized bag policy will also be in place to help ensure a safe, efficient entry process for everyone attending our games.
These enhancements are designed to support a safe and welcoming environment while allowing families, students, and community members to enjoy Friday night football. We encourage attendees to arrive a little earlier than usual to allow time for screening. Get more information about weapons screening at football games.
Updated FCPS Policies and Procedures
Cell Phones
As we prepare for the start of a strong school year, we want to share an important update regarding our cell phone policy designed to minimize distractions and maximize instructional time for all students.
SB108 is a new Virginia law that went into effect on July 1, 2026 and states that all schools in the state must follow a "bell-to-bell" phone-free policy. FCPS’ current cellphone policy is now bell to bell for elementary, middle, and high school students.
On May 7, 2026, as part of its annual review of FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R) document, the Fairfax County School Board approved changes to FCPS’ cellphone policy in order to align with SB108. FCPS’ updated cellphone policy is “bell to bell,” which means that students at all grade levels can only use cellphones, cellphone accessories, and smart devices before and after school. This does not apply to school-issued devices.
As of July 1, 2026, high school students can no longer use phones, cellphone accessories and smart devices (airpods, earbuds, headsets, smart glasses, other items connected to the internet) during lunch time.
Across all grade levels, FCPS new cellphone policy is that cellphones, phone accessories, and all smart devices (including watches that serve a dual purpose, such as smart watches, as well as airpods, earbuds, headsets, smart glasses, and other other items connected to the internet) must be off and personally stored (i.e., backpacks) for the duration of the school day: bell to bell.
While this is not a change from last year, students and families are also reminded that students are prohibited from using phones, tablets, and other mobile devices in restrooms and locker rooms, unless there is a medical necessity or emergency, and that cellphones are not permitted to be used as an instructional tool.
Medical or IEP/504 Plan Accommodations: If your student needs access to their phone for medical accommodations, it is important to note that the current cellphone policy and guidelines have not changed. Therefore, students who currently require access to a cellphone or another personally owned device for medical reasons, or an accommodation to access the curriculum and make progress to their individualized goals, will continue to have such access.
We are committed to helping our students make responsible choices. If a student uses their phone during class, it will be collected by a member of the administrative or security team. The student will receive a receipt, and the phone will be stored in a locked cart until the end of the school day. Students may retrieve their phone at the end of the school day.
Our goal is to ensure that every student has the opportunity to learn in a distraction-free environment. We appreciate your support in helping us reinforce these expectations at home. If you have any questions about this policy, please reach out to your student’s administrator.
Personal Communication & Computing Devices
Starting this school year, students must use FCPS-issued devices for school-related digital activities during the instructional day. This is in accordance with a new School Board requirement, approved on July 16, which states that students may not use personal electronic communication or computing devices, including personal laptops, tablets, smartwatches, smartphones, and similar devices.
Students may only use their personal device if it is required as part of a necessary accommodation in the students’ Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Section 504 Plan. A principal or the principal’s designee may approve a limited, course-specific exception for students enrolled in a specialized class when the curriculum requires a technology tool or software that isn’t available on a standard FCPS-issued device.
Families can help support this requirement by reminding students to bring their FCPS-issued device each day and use it for all school-related digital activities unless an approved exception applies.
New Student ID Cards Coming for Bus Riders This Fall
As part of the ongoing commitment to strengthening layered safety and security programs, FCPS will implement a new student ID system for students who ride our school buses.
The implementation of the student IDs is designed as an additional safety measure for our 130,000 FCPS students who ride the bus each day, ensuring they are on the right bus and that they get on and off at the correct bus stop, as well as making sure only authorized students are on our buses.
The IDs will be provided to students who ride the bus. Those students will be expected to tap on and tap off the bus. The student IDs do not track student movement. The only information available is when a student taps on or off a bus. Much like our Here Comes the Bus app, our new app will allow parents/guardians to track the progress of the school bus.
Learn more about the new system and how it will improve route efficiency, safety, and transparency with families. Check out the frequently asked questions for families.
Student Services
Student Services Office & Administration
McLean’s school counselors work directly with students, teachers, and parents to provide students a supportive and caring school experience. Students and parents are encouraged to reach out to their counselor with academic concerns, questions about college and career information, or mental health concerns.
The McLean administrative team is here to support all students!
The Assistant Principals work along with the counselors to support students. The duties for each assistant principal for the 2026-2027 school year are outlined on our website. Please do not hesitate to reach out when you have a question or concern.
Weekly Reminders
McLean HS Tech Support for Students 🖥️
If you are experiencing issues with your FCPS issued laptop, please use the Tech Support Request Form to enter your information. The tech support team will then get back to you as soon as possible.
School Board Welcome Videos
Welcome videos from Fairfax County School Board members are now available. Check them out here!
Medications, Emergency Contacts, Health Room, and More
Our goal is for students to experience a healthy and safe school year. You can help by following current medication procedures and updating emergency contact and health information for your students.
Medications:
Students cannot carry or self-administer medication at school except for pre-authorized emergency medications. Medications (prescription and over the counter) are stored and administered in the Health Room. If a student is found with unauthorized medication, a member of our administrative team will secure the medication and contact a parent/guardian to pick it up. All medications require a new Authorization Form each school year.
The Health Room is open to accept health forms and medications on:
- August 18th (1pm–5pm)
- August 20th (10am–2pm)
- August 21st (7:30am–noon)
- Anytime during the school year between 8am-2:30pm (please check in at the Main Office first).
Please provide prescription medications in original containers with a pharmacy label (30-day supply or less). The information on the completed Authorization Form (ex: dosage, timing, frequency) must match the pharmacy label. We accept over-the-counter medications in original, unopened containers (up to 100 pills).
Emergency Contact and Health Information:
Starting July 24th, you could update emergency contact and health information in SIS as part of the Online Verification/Update Packet. If you prefer paper versions of the Emergency Care Information and Health Information Forms, you may complete them at any time.
If you have medication-related questions or would like to discuss student health concerns over the summer, please contact our Public Health Nurse, Heather Allison, at hallison@fcps.edu. If you have questions about dropping off medications, please contact our School Health Aide, Julie Gamboa, at jgamboa@fcps.edu on or after August 13th.
Study Help and Support Available to Students in Schoology
A new Schoology Study and Support Hub is available for students in Schoology. This space was developed by the FCPS Educational Technology Team with input from students. It is designed to provide essential study tools and academic support resources directly to our learners.
Students can log in to Schoology and read their Schoology announcements or watch this video on the support hub for more information.
Building a Brighter Future, Together: FCPS Family Academy
The FCPS Family Academy is where families can learn and get support for their child’s school journey.
We know that parents and caregivers are critically important in their child’s education. The Family Academy lists classes, webinars, workshops, and programs offered by FCPS to help you support your child's needs and learning at home. The Family Academy also includes information about resources available to help every family ensure their child has what they need to succeed.
Visit the Family Academy webpage. Check out its catalog for upcoming classes, workshops, and webinars to help families learn about FCPS, parenting, early literacy, and how to partner with schools.
Calling All Rising Seniors: Apply for the Fairfax Global Leaders Fellowship
Are you passionate about making a difference in your community and around the world? The Fairfax Global Leaders Fellowship is now accepting applications for the Class of 2027!
Students must:
- Be a Fairfax County resident or attend Fairfax County Public Schools.
- Be a rising high school senior (Class of 2027).
- Have a minimum 3.5 GPA.
Before applying, please have your resume (.doc or .pdf) and high school transcript (.doc or .pdf) ready to upload. Students will also answer several short questions as part of the application.
There is no cost to apply. Students admitted to the program pay a one-time $75 administrative fee to support program expenses. The fee will be waived for students who qualify for free or reduced-price meals or who are experiencing financial hardship.
To apply, complete the Global Leaders Fellowship Application Form by Tuesday, September 1, at 11:59 p.m. (You must use a personal Gmail account to apply.)
Questions? Please email apply@fairfaxleaders.com.
School Communication
News You Choose
The following weekly letters are sent to all members who have signed up for News You Choose. If you are not receiving these messages, please go to this link to sign-up. Below you will find which day messages are sent out to the community.
- Sunday - Activities newsletter
- Monday - General school information
- Wednesday - PTSA newsletter
Naviance
Naviance Student is a comprehensive website designed for parents of middle and high school students who are making decisions about academic plans, colleges, and careers. Student Services uses this platform to send out up-to-date information for your student. In addition, Student Services sends weekly newsletters through Naviance with information on college and career preparation, upcoming events and opportunities through Student Services, and scholarship information. An active SIS ParentVue account allows you to access Naviance above.
X (Formerly Known as Twitter)
- Activities - @McLeanathletics
Instagram
- School - @mclean_high
- Activities - @mcleanathletics
FCPS Mobile App
There are a lot of school and FCPS webpages to bookmark, but the FCPS mobile app serves as your central hub!
Check daily meal menus and calendars with no login required, or use one-tap quick links to launch SIS ParentVUE, Schoology, and MySchoolBucks.
Download the FCPS mobile app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
Follow FCPS on WhatsApp
Is WhatsApp one of the ways you stay connected with family, friends, and your community? Now you can use it to stay connected with FCPS, too.
Follow the new FCPS WhatsApp Channel for helpful information and reminders throughout the school year, including important announcements, upcoming dates, tips for families, and more.
McLean PTSA
McLean High School PTSA Information
Here are some quick links:
Social-Emotional Support
Mental Health and Wellness Support Services and Resources
McLean’s Clinical Staff are available to consult with parents and students regarding mental health related concerns and behaviors. They are also able to provide community resources as needed. Please see their contact information below:
Carol Ann Forrest, School Psychologist, CMForrest@fcps.edu
Beverly Parker-Lewis, School Psychologist, baparkerlewi@fcps.edu
Marly Jerome-Featherson, School Social Worker, mjeromefeath@fcps.edu
For more Mental Health and Wellness Information, please check out these Student Wellness Resources, FCPS’s Healthy Minds Blog and the FCPS’s Parent Resource Center.
Emergency Resources
Crisis Link Regional Hotline 703-527-4077
Crisis Text Text NEEDHELP to 85511
Dominion Hospital Emergency 703-536-2000
INOVA Emergency 703-289-7560
Merrifield Center Emergency 703-573-5979 TTY dial 711
Life Threatening 911
 In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics:
- New Student Device Requirements
- Math Textbooks
- Football Game Safety Measures
Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.
Important Links
FCPS Cares
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Do you know a McLean High School or FCPS employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way or goes beyond what is expected? If so, then click here to share with everyone. |
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