|
English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو
Important Dates
Key dates for the 2026-2027 School Year:
For your planning purposes, you can access the FCPS 2026-2027 school year calendar on the FCPS website. We ask that every effort is made to consider the school calendar when planning trips and events that would take students out of school.
October 19-23 - Homecoming Spirit Week
October 20 - AP Exam Opt-Out forms are due
October 23 - Homecoming Pep rally
October 23 - Homecoming Game
October 24 - Homecoming Dance, 8-11 pm; no ticket sales at the door
October 26 - Outstanding Employee Awards Nominations Due (Details below)
October 27 - Governor's School Interest Meeting (details below)
October 30 – End of 1st Quarter, 2 hour early release
November 2-3 - No School for Students
November 4 - First day of 2nd Quarter
November 9 - Winter Sports Tryouts
November 11 - Veterans Day Celebration
November 12-13 - Final Senior Portraits Session
November 13 - Underclass portrait make ups
Message from the Principal
Dear Oakton Families,
As we continue to focus on our Core Values—Community, Integrity, and Respect—I want to highlight that last week we had some of our student-athletes from the football team and women's volleyball team visit Navy Elementary School, where they read to students in grades kindergarten through 3rd grade. Learning happens best in community, and it is even more powerful when we learn from each other, no matter the age difference. Our student-athletes inspired young readers while building a strong sense of community between our high schoolers and our future Cougars.
Looking ahead, it is also that time of year when we celebrate the incredible educators and operational staff who make Oakton High School such a special place. Nominations are now open for the FCPS Outstanding Employee Awards!
Our staff works tirelessly every day to support, inspire, and care for our students. If there is a teacher, counselor, administrator, or operational team member who has made a meaningful impact on your child or family, I strongly encourage you to take a few minutes to nominate them. A short note of recognition from a family means the world to our staff. Please see additional details and submission instructions below.
Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership, and let's have a great Homecoming week!
Take care and Go Cougars!
General Information
School Photos Available
School Photos are now online!
Families should have received an E-proof via email.
Please remember to check your spam.
For any questions about your student's school pictures please contact: underclass@vosphoto.com
Complete the Federal Impact Aid Survey Online
The Federal Impact Aid Survey is now available in ParentVUE. Your response helps FCPS receive funding for which it is eligible by identifying military and other federally connected families, including families living on a military base.
Please complete one survey for each child. Only the parent who enrolled the student with FCPS can submit the form. Your information will be kept strictly confidential.
To complete the survey, sign in to ParentVUE and click on Online Registration. From there, scroll down to find the Federal Impact Aid Survey.
If you are experiencing difficulty completing the survey, sign in to ParentVUE using Google Chrome, select Online Packets, then choose Federal Impact Aid Survey. If you need help accessing ParentVUE, contact your child’s school."
Here is a link to the FCPS page with more info and steps to access the survey online: https://www.fcps.edu/impact
🐾 FCPS Outstanding Employee Awards Nominations Open!
Oakton High School is filled with outstanding employees—let’s take this opportunity to recognize and celebrate each other for the incredible work happening across our building every day!
Nominations are now open for the Outstanding Employee Awards. To submit a nomination for an Oakton High School staff member, please complete the preliminary nomination using our Google form link . You may submit more than one nomination. All that is required for a preliminary nomination is a paragraph or two describing how the employee demonstrates exceptional work within that award category.
Please refer to the Employee Awards link for details regarding criteria and eligibility for each award. Nominations will close on October 26, 2026, at 11:59 PM.
OAKTON PANTRY VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY
Our pantry needs volunteers for our Thursday’s curbside distribution. We serve our community from 3:15pm to 4:15pm by providing bagged pantry goods that are distributed outside of our school building. If you have an hour to help, we would deeply appreciate it. You don’t have to commit to every Thursday! If you find that you can, please email us at oaktonpantry@gmail.com
Oakton Pantry Holiday Season Update
This Thanksgiving and holiday season, the Oakton Pantry will distribute gift cards to support our community. We are collecting $50 Walmart gift cards for this distribution.
Thanksgiving gift cards are due by Monday, November 16, 2025.
Holiday gift cards are due by Friday, December 11, 2025.
Physical gift cards can be dropped off at the Oakton High School main office. Electronic gift cards ("Walmart eGift card") can be emailed to OaktonPantry@gmail.com (recipient name: Oakton Pantry).
Thank you for supporting the Oakton Pantry and our community. Happy Thanksgiving and Holidays!
This is for donating gift cards. If you feel your family needs assistance during the holiday season, please email Ms. Bonnie Robertson (bmrobertson@fcps.edu).
It’s Time to Order Your Yearbook! Prices will increase soon and significantly as the year progresses. The 300-page book cost $65 until mid-December but don’t delay. We will run out. To reserve your copy, go to yearbookordercenter.com and use the code 4770.
As we approach the exciting culmination of your student's high school journey, why not create a lasting memory by recognizing your student in the 2026 Yearbook through a personalized senior ad? Space is limited to act now. This year, we are offering the following senior ad page sizes to accommodate all preferences and budgets:
- Full Page - $450
- Half Page - $225
- Quarter Page - $120
- Eighth Page - $60
- Sixteenth Page - $35
Whether you choose a heartfelt message, a collection of photos, or a combination of both, this senior ad is a perfect way to highlight your student's unique accomplishments, friendships, and experiences. To reserve a page, go to yearbookordercenter.com and use code 4770. Please contact Mr. Fortner, the Oakton High School yearbook advisor, at bjfortner@fcps.edu with any questions.
We look forward to celebrating the Class of 2026 together!
Student Activities
For our football game versus Chantilly this week
All spectators will enter the OHS stadium via the main entrance at the ticket booth and pass through the Security Screening. Every spectator will be required to purchase a game ticket, $7 for adults and $5 for students and we request that you bring exact change. We do not have credit card swipers. If you purchase online, you must use the QR code posted at Oakton or purchase ahead of time using the link below. There will be no admittance after the start of the 4th quarter.
https://gofan.co/app/school/VA24932?utm_campaign=PlayOn_Sites
(This link will be updated by Thursday to purchase tickets)
Football Game Safety and Security Reminders
As we continue with our 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 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
- Sporting equipment (balls, bats, sticks, etc.)
- 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”x6”x12”
- Small clutch bag no larger than 4.5” x 6.5”
- Fanny packs (update!)
- Medical and diaper bags permitted but subject to inspection
As a reminder, middle school students and younger students must be accompanied by a responsible adult who remains with the student(s) at the event.
Testing Information
AP Testing Opt-Out Letters
2026-27 AP/IB Test Registration, Opt-Out Timeline, and Fees
As part of the FCPS Approved Budget, the fees for the first six AP/IB tests taken for courses in which students are enrolled for high school credit will be paid for by FCPS. Students taking AP tests without enrolling in the corresponding FCPS course are responsible for the test fee(s).
FCPS encourages all students to take AP/IB tests for courses in which they are enrolled. However, students will have the opportunity to opt out of the test(s) by filling out an Opt Out form. To assist in the decision-making process, students will be provided a report with their previous tests and current AP/IB course enrollment.
Regardless of FCPS opt out decision, students enrolled in any AP course must register for their associated AP test(s) in AP Classroom. Instructions for this process have been provided by classroom teachers. Students who register after this date may incur a $40 late registration fee. Students who do not register by March 12th will not be able to take the exam(s) and applicable assessed exam fees will not be refunded.
AP/IB students must make Opt Out decisions. Student accounts will be billed in December for tests that exceed the six FCPS-funded tests. The nonrefundable fees are $99 per AP exam, or a $126.50 fee per IB exam.
2027 AP Testing
Reference the College Board AP exam dates site for dates of AP Exams.
Opt-Out Letters Due
Oakton students will receive their opt-out letters on Tuesday October 13th, 2026 during their first period class . All Opt-Outs are due by Tuesday October 20th 2026 to Mr. Chang in School Counseling by 3pm. If students need a new Opt-Out form they can see Mr. Chang and he will reprint the form. Students with an Off Campus Waiver or Academy during 1st period can see Mr. Chang for their opt out form. Oakton information will continue to be posted on our AP Exam page here: https://oaktonhs.fcps.edu/academics/testing/ap-exams
AP Exam Registration for Non-enrolled Students
If any student wants to take an AP exam in a course that he/she is not enrolled in, registration is now open. Each exam costs $99. You can use this google form to register. Students currently enrolled in an AP course at OHS are automatically registered for the corresponding AP exam and do not need to complete any additional form. The deadline to register is October 23rd. Payment can be submitted through My School Bucks or check made out to Oakton High School at a cost of $99 per exam. Payment is required before the exam space will be reserved.
My School Bucks Link
Other AP related information can be found in our AP Testing FAQs on the Oakton website. If you have any other questions about AP testing in general, please contact AP Coordinator Kim Stewart at kastewart@fcps.edu.
Student Services
Freshman and Senior Parent Night Recordings
We were happy to have our 9th and 12th grade parents join us for our parent nights in September. If you were not able to attend you can find the links to the meetings on our Student Services Program and Presentations Page.
Class Schedule Change Requests
Our staffing decisions and the number of courses offered are based on the classes students selected during the registration period last school year. To maintain the best possible program for our students and one that is most responsive to their educational needs, schedule changes were limited to space available.
At this time, schedule changes are now closed.
For any questions you may have, contact your child’s school counselor.
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.
Governor’s School Interest Meeting & Application Info
Attention 10th and 11th graders! If you are looking for an enriching summer residential program in Academics or Visual & Performing Arts, please join us for an informational meeting.
-
Date: Tuesday, October 27
-
Time: 10:40 AM – 11:15 AM
-
Location: Oakton Lecture Hall
Important Deadline: Submitting an interest form by October 30, 2026 is the mandatory first step in applying. Late forms will not be accepted.
Note: Programs run late June through late July. Applicants must be available for the entire session.
Health and Wellness Updates
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.
💻 No-Cost Mental Online Therapy for All High School Students
Is your student experiencing anxiety, behavior changes, or challenges with peer and family relationships? If so, you may refer your child for weekly therapy with a licensed therapist through Hazel Health. Visit the FCPS Teletherapy webpage for information on this service.
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
FCPS News
FCPS News
In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics:
- Facilities Survey
- Transportation Survey
- Health Department Letter on Preventing the Spread of Illness
Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.
Save the Date: Community Conversations with Superintendent Reid
Your voice matters, and Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid wants to hear from you! At FCPS, parents are partners, working with us to set our students up for long-term success at school and in life.
A series of Community Conversations will be held across the school division. You are invited to share your thoughts with Dr. Reid and ask her questions. Events are planned for the following dates at 6:30 p.m. (unless otherwise noted):
Registration links will be shared soon. Childcare and interpretation services will be provided. Events are one-hour long and open to all. Find out about other opportunities to connect with Dr. Reid.
Survey Extended! 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 survey takes about five minutes to complete and will be open through Tuesday, October 20.
Please note that parents may now submit more than one response to provide feedback regarding different schools. 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.
PTSA News
The PTSA Board is taking shape and looking forward to a great year supporting the families, students, teachers, and staff of Oakton, but we can always use more help. Whether it be an idea or skill you’d like to share, time to volunteer, or a monetary donation, we need you!
Fill out the Shape Oakton questionnaire and tell us how you would like to get involved. Complete this form if you are interested in taking on a PTSA leadership role with one of our Committees. And if volunteering isn’t possible right now, we welcome you to just become a PTSA member or provide financial support on our Membership & Donations page.
Join us on Tuesday, October 20 at 7:00 PM
PTSA Members Meeting — Oakton High School Lecture Hall
Join us for Part 2 of Getting to Know Principal Shannon Matheny. Hear more about her journey, her vision, and what’s ahead for Oakton. You do not have to be a PTSA member to attend. Parents and guardians, students, teachers, and staff are all welcome. Take the opportunity to ask questions and connect with other members of the Oakton community. We hope to see you there.
All Night Grad Party (ANGP) Cotton Candy Fundraiser
The ANGP Committee is up and running and has big plans for the event. But to pull it off, they need to raise funds! The first fundraiser of the year is at the Homecoming Football Game on Friday night. Stop by the cotton candy machine and pick up a bag and know that, in addition to enjoying a sweet treat at the game, you are helping support a year-end tradition for our seniors. Interested in joining the ANGP Committee? Contact the ANGP team at oaktonhsangp@gmail.com.
Oakton PTSA Mini-Grants – Apply Today!
Have an idea that could benefit Oakton students? The Oakton PTSA is offering Mini-Grants of up to $300 to help fund projects, activities, and resources that make a positive impact on our school community. Oakton teachers, staff, and students representing school clubs are eligible to apply and must be current Oakton PTSA members. Funding is limited, so apply early! Applications are due November 16, 2026, with awards announced the week of December 14. Apply for a Mini-Grant Here!
Join. Connect. Shape Oakton.
Questions about the PTSA, contact us at oaktonhsptsa@gmail.com. Follow us on Instagram. For more information, visit our website.
Quick Links
|
