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Indigenous Peoples’ Day
Monday, October 12, is a student holiday and school planning day for Indigenous Peoples' Day. See the complete school year calendar.
Important Dates:
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10/12- Student Holiday (No School)- Indigenous Peoples' Day
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10/12-10/16- National School Lunch Week
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10/15- 7:00p Auditorium-Talent Show
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10/19-10/23- Digital Citizenship Week
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10/19-10/23- National School Bus Safety Week
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10/30- End of First Quarter (2-hour early release)
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11/02-Student Holiday- Teacher Workday
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11/03- Student Holiday- School Planning Day- Election Day
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11/08- Diwali
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11/25-11/27- Holiday- Thanksgiving Break
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06/10/27- 9:00AM- Graduation (Eagle Bank Arena)
SCHS ATTENDANCE INFORMATION 2026-27
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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,
Fall always brings me back fond memories of walking to class at Radford University, smiling as the scent of wood burning in fireplaces filled the air. Those crisp walks became some of my favorite memories of the season. At SoCo, we hope to create equally lasting memories for our Stallions, each one unique to the students, experiences, and traditions that make our school special. Let’s review this week’s reflections …
Sense of Belonging
Our Custodians Keep SoCo Shining!
On Custodian Appreciation Day, we celebrated the people who keep SoCo shining from floor to ceiling. Their hard work makes our school a cleaner, safer, and more welcoming place for everyone. We’re grateful for all they do, and we wouldn’t sweep their contributions under the rug! We appreciate our amazingly talented and friendly team of custodians!
On Par for Greatness
Congratulations to senior Kamryn Garg, our District Golf Champion and fifth-place finisher in the Occoquan Region. His outstanding season has earned him a spot at the State Championship on October 13 at Bristow Manor. We’re cheering him on as he takes his talents to the next level!
Friday Night Lights, Stallion Style
Our football team delivered a stellar shutout, defeating Fairfax 33–0 last Friday. The Stallions’ strength, speed, and teamwork kept the scoreboard shining in our favor. Congratulations to the team on a fantastic performance!
Senior Night Victory in Overtime
On Senior Night, our field hockey team edged West Springfield 1–0 in overtime for a memorable win. The Stallions stood strong like a wall, keeping the game scoreless until the decisive goal. Congratulations to our seniors and the entire team on a thrilling finish!
Dig Pink, Serve Hope
This week, our volleyball teams took the court for the Dig Pink game, serving up support for breast cancer research. The event raised money and awareness for this important cause. Our Stallions earned an impressive 3-1 victory over Robinson. Thank you to everyone who helped make the night meaningful!
High Quality Instruction
I had the opportunity to observe one of our very talented teachers this week, Mrs. Ettenson, in an Honors English 10 class. Students learned in a welcoming, calm classroom where small-group seating and student artwork made the space inviting. Mrs. Ettenson used clear examples and visual reminders to help students work together to put sentence strips in order, explain their choices, and stay on task throughout the observation. We are fortunate to have Mrs. Ettenson at SoCo, where her thoughtful teaching helps students feel welcome, engaged, and ready to learn.
School Culture
SoCo Continues Being “Distinguished!”
Virginia’s School Performance and Support Framework (SPSF) evaluates high schools on mastery, readiness, and graduation outcomes. South County earned 96.02% overall, including 94.34% in Mastery, 98.00% in Readiness, and 96.93% in Graduation, placing us in the highest rating possible: Distinguished. Our score rose two points from last year, and we thank our students, staff, parents, and everyone in the SoCo community for helping us reach even higher.
SoCo’s Purple Pride Shines Again!
South County High School has earned the Virginia Purple Star School designation for the second time, recognizing our strong commitment to supporting military-connected students and their families. The award recognizes schools that provide dedicated support, including a staff point of contact and schoolwide learning about the needs of military-connected families. Thank you to everyone who helps make SoCo a welcoming and supportive place for our military-connected students!
Mark Your Calendars!
Speaking of being a military-welcoming school, we are hosting our second annual Veteran’s Day assembly on Wednesday, November 11 from 10:15-11:15am. Based on parent requests last year, we are opening seats for this event to parents this year as well as our students. If you are interested in attending, we are requesting parents to complete this rsvp link so we can properly screen and reserve seats for our visitors. This is going to be a wonderful celebration of our military, which will include adult and student testimonies, musical and dance performances, and so much more. We look forward to celebrating our military at this special event.
Impact That Inspires!
Congratulations to Mr. Dan Velazquez on earning an FCPS Impact Award for empowering students through strong partnerships and a supportive classroom. He has secured grants to bring students to TSA conferences, encouraged more female and minority students to explore STEM, and shared his teaching at an international engineering educators’ conference. Dan’s summer learning and advocacy for stronger connections between high school and college engineering programs show his lasting commitment to opening doors for students. We’re proud of Mr. Velazquez for the many ways he champions our students and strengthens the supportive, welcoming culture that makes SoCo special.
Friday Night Lights, Family Style
As we cheer on our Stallions and continue enhancing the positive experience that everyone enjoys, this is a reminder that all middle school students must attend football games with their parent or guardian and remain with them throughout the game. High school students who do not attend an FCPS school must also be accompanied by their parent. Thank you for helping keep game nights safe and enjoyable for everyone.
Coach’s Corner
Mid-October is a crucial time for students to review feedback on recent assignments, clear up any lingering questions, and refine their study habits before the end of the quarter. You can support your students at home by asking them to show you a recent rubric-based assignment and discussing the specific strategies they are using to prepare for the rest of the quarter.
That’s it for this week. I hope you all have an exceptional weekend!
 Kambar
#RunTogetherRiseAsOne!
Sources of Strength will be hosting our annual Talent Show on October 15 at 7 pm in the auditorium. We will have singing, dancing, comedy acts and some special performances by Staff Members. Tickets are $5.00 and can be purchased at the door or on My School Bucks.
Leadership is looking for help with some decorations for Homecoming! All decorations will be delivered directly to South County. Thank you!
https://a.co/03IXp7Aw
ASVAB Testing
The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is for Juniors and Seniors interested in career exploration or with plans to enlist in the military after graduation. The ASVAB will be offered at South County on Tuesday, December 1. This is a GREEN day. Students must be 16 years of age on December 1st to take the test.
Students must be logged in to their school accounts for access to registration form here - ASVAB Registration
Detailed information on the ASVAB can be found at: https://www.asvabprogram.com/
Practice questions are available at: https://www.military.com/join-armed-forces/asvab
More information can be found on your student’s graduating class Schoology page.
Please note that the registration deadline has changed. Registration for the ASVAB will close at 11:59 PM on Friday, October 30, 2026.
World Language Credit By Exam (WLCBE)
This year's World Languages Credit by Exam (WLCBE) will be administered at each FCPS middle, high, and secondary school. The exam is an optional test for students in grades 7-12 who can speak and write (type) proficiently in a language other than English. Based on the results of the exam, they can earn 1, 2, and/or 3 passing world language credits.
The WLCBE will be administered at South County High School between November 4 and 24. Exact dates and times will be determined after registrations are complete.
Registration opens on September 8 at 8 a.m., and closes on October 16 at 4 p.m. Late registrations will not be accepted.
Please contact your student’s school counselor to register for the exam.
Students can complete a pre-registration interest form in order to learn more about the exam. This form is NOT a registration form, and students must follow up with their school counselor to complete the registration process.
More information, including the list of languages offered on the exam, and how to register is available online.
PBIS School Store!
Help us stock our new PBIS School Store! Students will be able to redeem the points they earn for demonstrating our core values of community, integrity, and resilience for fun prizes and school supplies. We are seeking donations of new items from our Amazon list to help make the store a success. Your support will help us recognize our students!
https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/26BJLLE2I1Z60?ref_=wl_share
South County High School Hosts VMBC Marching Band Competition
Experience the excitement, energy, and pageantry of marching band as South County High School hosts the South County Invitational on Saturday, October 24, 2026. Spectators will enjoy powerful music, creative visual performances, colorful uniforms, dynamic choreography, and talented marching bands from across Northern Virginia and the state competing for top honors on the field.
The event will be held at South County High School, located at 8501 Silverbrook Road in Lorton. Gates open at 12:00 p.m. and the event goes until 9:00 p.m. General admission is $10, and tickets may be purchased with cash or credit card. Concessions will be available throughout the event.
For the performance schedule and additional event information, visit www.vmbc-online.org/soco
Annual Special Education Family Conference
The Annual Special Education Family Conference, “Connected Communities, Thriving Students,” brings families together to learn, connect, and celebrate student success. The program includes an opening panel discussion, more than 20 concurrent breakout sessions, a student showcase, and an exhibit hall. Join us Saturday, November 14, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Hayfield Secondary School.
Special Education Family Conference.pdf
Supporting 2e Learners.pdf
STEAMOLOGY STEMFest 2026
Join us for STEAMOLOGY STEMFest 2026, a fun day of discovery and creativity for elementary and middle school students. Explore hands-on robotics, coding, engineering, science experiments, math activities, and more on Saturday, October 17, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at South County High School; students can register, and volunteers, exhibitors, businesses, organizations, and high school clubs are invited to participate.
STEMFESTOct2026Flyerv2 (1).pdf
ATHLETICS CORNER
Football Game Safety and Security Update
FCPS is implementing additional safety and security measures at all varsity football games.
Beginning this season, all spectators will participate in security screening using the same weapons detection technology introduced in our 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.
The following items are prohibited:
- Backpacks
- Purses
- Tote bags
- Outside food and beverages
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Sporting equipment (balls, bats,sticks, etc.)
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Any item prohibited by FCPS policy, or determined by event staff to present safety concerns.
Approved bags are limited to:
- Clear plastic, vinyl, or pvc bags no larger than 12” x 6” x 12”
- Small clutch bag no larger than 6.5” x 4.5”
- Medical and diaper bags permitted but subject to inspection
Stallion Nation we need your support and help staffing our concession stand for both our outdoor and indoor events this fall. This is our leading fundraiser, which goes right back to supporting our athletic teams. Please sign up at: https://www.stallionnationboosters.org/volunteer/concessions-support.php
South County Athletic Booster Club
South County PTSO Family and Parent Membership 2026-2027
South County PTSO Reduced Rate Teacher Membership 2026-2027
White House Ornaments - 2026
Car Magnets (2027+ class magnets )
Stallion Walk of Fame Engraved Brick 2026-2027 season
Donate to our PTSO
Donate to the 2027 All Night Grad Party
ALL NIGHT GRAD PARTY (ANGP) - Class of 2027
Graduation Seat Raffle 2027
Graduate Yard Sign - Class of 2027
WAIT… NO HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA THIS YEAR?!
Don’t worry — it’s not going away! We’re just taking a year off so we can come back bigger and better in 2027!
After 20 incredible years, we’re using this pause to build a new team ready to carry this beloved South County holiday tradition into its next chapter — and bring it back in all its festive glory!
And we’d love YOU to be part of it!
If you love the Extravaganza, enjoy bringing people together, or simply want to help keep a 20-year community tradition going strong, come join the team!
📧 Interested? Email pres@southcountyptso.org
Stallion Holiday Fest!
December 5, 2026 9 am - 12 pm
Join us for some holiday cheer!
We'll have Photo Opportunities, Brunch, Book Emporium, Kids' Shoppe, Music, Student Clubs/Boosters, SCHS Spiritwear, and more!
We need volunteers to make this happen! Please reach out to
Kitty Greenstein at pres@southcountyptso.org
Don't forget to renew your Memberships!
https://southcountyptso.membershiptoolkit.com/
Go to our PTSO Store for the following: https://southcountyptso.membershiptoolkit.com/home
Thank you to our local Yafa Grille for supporting our PTSO every Tuesday!
Use code #SouthCounty10 in the notes at checkout when ordering online or mention South County High at in-person checkout.
Also, Yafa Grille is offering 10% off for all FCPS employees (show badge) when ordering in-store!
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 PTSO and Class of 2027 and all their events for the year.
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 PTSO, 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 SOCO at https://www.seasonalroots.com/socoangp.
AWARENESS
Disability History and Awareness Month
In Virginia during October, Disability History and Awareness activities provide an opportunity to create greater public awareness for individuals with disabilities, with the goal of full inclusion in our community.
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National Bullying Prevention Month
October is National Bullying Prevention Month. To help develop a common understanding of Bullying, below is the FCPS definition.
Bullying in Students Rights and Responsibilities is defined as: “Any aggressive and unwanted behavior that is intended to harm, intimidate, or humiliate the victim; involves a real or perceived power imbalance between the aggressor or aggressors and victim; and is repeated over time or causes severe emotional trauma. “Bullying” includes cyberbullying. “Bullying” does not include ordinary teasing, horseplay, argument, or peer conflict.”
For more information on how FCPS handles a bullying situation please visit the FCPS Bullying Prevention and Intervention webpage. Our goal is to ensure all students feel safe and welcome at school. If you have questions and/or concerns about something that is going on at school, please contact the front office so that they can support you and most importantly your student.
College Fair and Postsecondary Virtual Night
Prepare for your child’s future at College Fair and Postsecondary Night. The annual FCPS College Fair will be held Sunday, October 18, from 4 to 6 p.m., at the George Mason University Eagle Bank Arena. Approximately 200 colleges and universities will be represented, including two- and four-year schools and U.S. Service Academies.
The virtual postsecondary night event will be held on Monday, October 19, from 5 to 8 p.m. Both events will help students prepare for the next chapter of their educational journey. Learn more about the College Fair and postsecondary virtual event.
Our Focus on Academic Growth and ExcellenceThe FCPS 2023-30 Strategic Plan sets five main goals to create positive change in the division. These goals show where we should focus our attention and will help us align our efforts.
The third goal is for all students to achieve academic growth and excellence. We want our students to have the academic skills to be successful, including reading on level by third grade. See how Goal 3 is being put into practice.
Not Feeling Well? When Your Child Can Come to School
School is better when your child is here! But we do understand that some days, they may feel unwell. Learn more about which symptoms are ok at school (like sneezing or sniffles), and when your child should stay home (if they have a fever, diarrhea, or vomiting, for example).
If your child has a chronic illness, make sure to notify the school so that assistance can be provided if needed. Keep an open line of communication with your school public health nurse. Call the school as soon as you know your child will be absent and, if possible, let them know how long you think they will be out.
If you or your family need any kind of support, please reach out to our front office. We are here for you! Visit FCPS’ Attendance webpage for tips and strategies.
Immunization Events for FCPS Students
FCPS, in partnership with Inspire Health Alliance, will be providing school-required immunizations and optional flu shots for all FCPS students, ages 18 and under, with no out-of-pocket costs. Multiple events will take place at designated FCPS locations.
Additional dates will be made available throughout the school year. Parents or guardians may view upcoming events and schedule an appointment for their student. Participation is voluntary. Additional immunization resources are also available.
Superintendent Community Conversations
Join Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid for a Community Conversation. Students, families, staff, and community members are invited to ask questions, share concerns, and discuss what matters most to them. Everyone is welcome! Click on the date to register for any of the following events:
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Monday, October 19, at 6:30 p.m., at Spring Hill Elementary School
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Monday, October 26, at 6:30 p.m., at Beech Tree Elementary School
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Thursday, October 29, at 6:30 p.m., at North Springfield Elementary School
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Tuesday, December 1, at 6:30 p.m., at Powell Elementary School (note date change)
Registration is not required, but it helps with planning.
Share Your Feedback on Traveling to and From School
The FCPS Office of Safety and Security and Safe Routes to School program are asking families to share their experiences traveling to and from their child’s school. The feedback will help inform the Fairfax County School Board’s annual assessment of traffic and pedestrian safety near schools.
The Traffic and Pedestrian Safety Survey asks about walking and biking routes, traffic near schools, kiss-and-ride experiences, accessibility, and other safety concerns.
Your feedback will help FCPS identify common issues. Your responses will be kept confidential and shared with school administrators and the Office of Safety and Security. The five-minute survey is open through Thursday, October 15.
Be sure to identify the school related to your feedback and include specific locations where you have observed a safety issue. If you have students at different schools in FCPS, please complete a different survey for each school.
If you have any questions about the survey, please contact SafeRoutestoSchool@fcps.edu.
Calendar Change: Eid al-Fitr
FCPS will mark the beginning of Eid al-Fitr with an evening-only observance day on Monday, March 8. There will be school on this day, but major school-sponsored events and activities (such as auditions or tryouts) will not take place.
Tuesday, March 9, will be a holiday for students and staff.
Wednesday, March 10, will be an observance day. There will be school on this day, but certain activities that cannot be made up (major tests, field trips, or mandatory events) will not take place on this day.
A new school year calendar has been published, which includes this change. Please note that holidays and observances on the calendar may shift due to anticipated lunar sightings.
Safe Routes to School Parent and Caregiver Survey
As part of the Fairfax County School Board’s Annual School-Based Traffic and Pedestrian Safety Assessment, the FCPS Office of Safety and Security and Safe Routes to School program are inviting parents and caregivers to share their experiences traveling to and from school.
The Traffic and Pedestrian Safety Survey asks about walking and biking routes, traffic near schools, kiss and ride experiences, accessibility, and other safety concerns.
Your feedback will help FCPS identify common issues. Your responses will be kept confidential and shared with school administrators and the Office of Safety and Security. The five-minute survey is open through Thursday, October 15.
Be sure to identify the school related to your feedback and include specific locations where you have observed a safety issue. If you have students at different schools in FCPS, please complete a different survey for each school.
If you have any questions about the survey, please contact SafeRoutestoSchool@fcps.edu.
FCPS Seeks Community Input on Middle School AAP Centers
FCPS is exploring a plan to offer Full-Time Advanced Academic Program (AAP) services at every middle school. Under the proposal, students who qualify could attend their neighborhood middle school and take advanced classes with other AAP students. The School Board has approved community engagement at Franklin, Hayfield, Holmes, Key, and Whitman middle schools, where programs could open for the 2027-28 school year. The proposal is still under consideration, and the School Board is expected to make a decision in December.
Each community meeting offers in-person and virtual participation. Upcoming meetings are scheduled for:
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Holmes Middle: Thursday, October 15, at 6 p.m.
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Whitman Middle: Thursday, October 22, at 6 p.m.
Current middle school students will remain at their assigned AAP centers through middle school. Learn more and find meeting sign-up forms on the Middle School AAP Centers page.
Growing Together: Talking About Social-Emotional Learning at Home
Social-emotional learning (SEL) helps children develop confidence, resilience, self-awareness, and other important skills that support their success in school and throughout life. Join a workshop for parents and caregivers to:
- Understand your child’s Fairfax County SEL Screener results.
- Use the results as a starting point for meaningful conversations at home.
- Support your child’s social and emotional development.
- Build confidence, resilience, and lifelong skills together.
Learn practical ways to talk with your child about their social and emotional well-being and support their continued growth at home. Events will take place from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, October 8, at Skyview High School and Wednesday, October 21, at Kingstowne Regional Library. View additional dates on the FCPS Family Academy webpage.
Childcare will be available. Interpretation services are available upon request. For more information, contact the Family and School Partnerships office at 703-204-4300 or FamilyEngagement@fcps.edu.
Learn About Applied Behavior Analysis and Teaching New Skills at Home
All family members and caregivers are invited to attend monthly Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Family Training to learn how to support and teach students with autism and related disorders. No registration is needed.
Virtual trainings take place at 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. Join a session. Upcoming topics include:
- Autism and ABA Overview on Wednesday, October 14. (It is highly recommended that you attend this session before any future sessions.)
- Prioritizing Skills to Teach at Home on Wednesday, November 18.
- Toilet Training on Wednesday, December 9.
- Managing Challenging Behaviors at Home on Wednesday, January 13.
- Communication: A Foundation for Independence on Wednesday, February 10.
Visit the ABA webpage for a full list of classes. Need an interpreter? Contact Stephanie Watkins two weeks before the training at 571-423-4110 or sawatkins@fcps.edu.
Understanding the FCPS Calendar
Help your child prepare for future success by encouraging them to develop positive attendance habits. Regular attendance supports learning and helps students stay on track for college, careers, and other opportunities after graduation.
Take a look at the FCPS calendar. Try your best to schedule any vacations or planned family events on weekends and school holidays. If the appointment needs to be during the school day, when possible, schedule it for the beginning or end of the day to minimize time missed.
If your child needs to miss school because of an illness or appointment, please report the absence to our school as early as possible. Find out how to report an absence on our homepage or call the front office.
If you or your family need any kind of support, please let us know. We are here for you! Visit the FCPS Attendance webpage for tips and strategies.
Preparing for Life After High School
To help Virginia students get ready for college, job training, or entry-level work, the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) and the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SHEV) have developed resources and gathered important information to share with Virginia families.
Middle and high school students and families can learn more about preparing for college or a career by visiting the following websites:
Each site contains information on preparing, applying, and paying for college, as well as information on degree options and labor market career projections.
Federal Student Aid Form Open
Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form allows you to be considered for federal student aid. In addition, states and colleges use FAFSA information to award their own grants, scholarships, and loans.
The 2027-28 FAFSA is now open.
Free Financial Aid and Scholarship Information Sessions
College Access Fairfax, in partnership with Fairfax County Public Schools, will present virtual information sessions on the financial aid process for post-secondary education and scholarship information.
Sessions include:
Click on a date to participate. Visit College Access Fairfax for more information.
Moving on to Life in the Community Resource Fair
Students with disabilities and their families are invited to attend the Moving on to Life in the Community Resource Fair, which will be held Thursday, November 19, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., in the cafeteria at Fairfax High School.
The fair is designed for students with developmental and intellectual disabilities who will need continuing support after leaving FCPS. It is an opportunity to connect with agency and vendor representatives to gather information about services for adults in need of ongoing support.
The exhibitor fair includes information on supported employment options, day support programs, recreation/leisure activities, residential provider options, travel training supports, advocacy, and funding.
Agency representatives will be available to share information on adult service providers, employment and training programs, Medicaid, Social Security, and residential options. Register to attend the resource fair.
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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