FCPS

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Useful Links/Information

FCHS Bell Schedule

Schoology

SIS ParentVUE

FCPS School Year Calendar

Important Dates

• 12/23-1/3 - Winter Break (Offices Closed)
• 1/9 - Curriculum Night (6:15 pm, see announcement below)
• 1/15 - College Parent Night (see announcement below)
• 1/23 - FAFSA Completion Event (see announcement below)

FCHS Offices Closed for Winter Break December 23rd - January 3 Attendance Matters!

We recognize that holidays are an important time for reconnecting with families far away and exposing your children to your home and language, whether you grew up in another part of the United States or a different country. The price of plane tickets often influences when you want to travel. But keep in mind the costs to your children’s education if they miss too much school.

This year, Winter Break is from December 23rd to January 3rd.  We hope to see all our students in school through December 20th and returning to school on January 6.

We wish you all a safe and joyful Winter Break!

Curriculum Night January 9th 6:15-8:00pm

We wanted to share with you that the first big event to begin our academic advising season will be our curriculum night. We will hold the event in person, hosted by our Principal, Director of Student Services, Academy Administrator, Director of Student Activities and department representatives.

Who: Students, Parents & Caregivers of 8th, 9th, 10th, & 11th graders that will be attending FCHS in the Fall of 2025. We are also planning specialized sessions for Multilingual Learners (formally ESOL), Literacy courses, Advanced Academics (Honors, AP, & DE), and Math pathways.  

When: January 9, 2025,  6:15pm presentation, 7:00pm academic fair with representatives available to answer questions about content and levels including the elective options. 

Where: Falls Church High School Lecture hall and cafeteria (Door 7 & 9)

What: Curriculum night is a presentation to families regarding course selection information, diploma requirements, Academy opportunities and curriculum information. The Falls Church Academy is included and holds an open house to allow all eligible high school students a chance to learn about the Academy offerings. Academy representatives from Marshall, Fairfax, Edison, Chantilly, and West Po are also present.

Why: Your child will be selecting his/her/their courses for the next school year, this presentation offers lots of information on making the best choices for a successful school year.

Course Selection Begins in January

Beginning in January 2025, students will meet with their counselors to discuss course selection for next year. Families are encouraged to actively participate in this important process. 

As students choose courses, it is important to remind them to consider the following:

• Current academic strengths and habits.
• Graduation requirements (high school students).
• Interests and career and postsecondary goals.
• Personal well-being.
• Extracurricular activities and other commitments that may impact students’ time and energy.

School-life balance is an important consideration as students strive for academic and personal success. Families are welcome to contact their student’s school counselor with questions.

Graduation Requirements and Planning

Careful consideration is essential when planning next year's courses. We encourage our students and families to review the Graduation Requirements and Course Planning webpage to make informed decisions while planning for success in high school and beyond. Reviewing the Program of Studies may be helpful as well. 

Please refer to our course catalog and website for more information.

College Parent Night Thursday, January 15, 7:00-9:00 pm FCHS Lecture Hall (enter via door #7)

We will discuss what underclassmen (grades 9-11) should be doing now to prepare for college, the college application process, how to pay for college, and how parents can support their students through this process. While this presentation is mainly geared toward juniors, parents with students (and students themselves) in any grade are welcome to attend! 

We have a great group of colleges representatives lined up:

• Joyce Lee- University of Utah
• Eric Ahlstrand- Dartmouth College
• Alexis Jenkins- Radford University
• Melissa Ward- Miami University- Ohio

Many of these college representatives have worked for and/or attended several institutions of higher learning. They are a wealth of information and a valuable resource not to be missed! If you have any questions, please contact FCHS College & Career Specialist Terri Markwart [email protected]

FAFSA Completion Event January 23, 7:00-9:00 pm FCHS Cafeteria (enter via Door #9)

Seniors who plan to attend NOVA and/or a 4-year college should complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) in order for schools to determine eligibility for financial aid/scholarships/Pell Grants, etc. College Access Fairfax has partnered with FCPS high schools to provide families assistance with completing the FAFSA. NOTE: Student & Parent MUST have created their FSA ID NO later than January 20 in order to complete the FAFSA on January 23.  Create your FSA ID HERE  Begin the FAFSA HERE  WHAT should I bring to a FAFSA completion event?

*If you are unable to attend on January 23, please go to College Access Fairfax homepage for additional FAFSA Completion Event dates/locations. Falls Church HS families may attend ANY of these FAFSA Completion Events at ANY high school; you do NOT need to attend the host school.

Student and Family Resources

Fairfax County Public Schools has compiled a list of resources for students and families in case they need assistance while schools are closed for winter break. Please visit FCPS’ winter resources webpage for information on academic support, mental health support, and county resources related to food, clothing, housing, and other needs.

School’s Closed, Learning Can Continue! 

FCPS encourages students to take advantage of fun learning opportunities during winter break and snow days. Consider these winter activities to blend education and play for your students during winter break or weather-related school closures.

Save the Date: Academy Open Houses Begin in January!

FCPS high school academies will hold open houses for interested students beginning in January.

A high school academy is a center within a high school that offers advanced technical and specialized courses to prepare students for postsecondary education and/or career fields. Students enrolling in academy elective courses will be provided with opportunities to participate in a variety of career experiences including shadowing, mentoring, or internships with local businesses.

Learn more and view the calendar of Academy Open Houses.

No-Cost Mental Health Teletherapy 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 Teletherapy webpage for information on this service.

Bundle Up With Books Over Break

Fairfax County Public Library’s (FCPL) winter reading adventure has begun and will continue through Friday, January 31, 2025. Visit your local FCPL library branch or visit their website to register and get a sneak peek at the prizes being offered. Check out their Winter Reading Events webpage to learn about laser tag, movie nights, crafting sessions, Noon-Year Eve celebrations, and book discussions.

Get Outdoors for Winter Fun!

The Fairfax County Park Authority has rounded up its seasonal fun into a handy list of events happening across the county. 

Learn more about the Winter Wonderland and the Holiday Train at Burke Lake Park, Holiday on the Farm at Frying Pan Farm Park, and many more fun events.

Preparing for Winter Weather

Winter weather will be here before you know it! Watch this video to see how weather-related closing decisions are made.

FCPS’ website is generally the first place to find out about emergency weather closings. Other communication channels will be used as quickly as possible including email, text, social media, and news stations. Learn more about how schedule changes are communicated. 

Be sure to plan for the winter season. Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE, bookmark the FCPS website, and arrange for childcare if needed.

Student Bus Passes Offer Free Transportation

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. Complete the application and return it to your school office. 

Additionally, students at Justice, Annandale, Falls Church, and Marshall high schools, and Davis Center can ride Metrobus for free. Visit the Fairfax County website for details and approved Metrobus routes. Complete the application and return it to your school office. 

Children 12 and younger ride for free on the Fairfax Connector with a paying adult.

PTSA Particulars

The Falls Church HS PTSA supports the entire FCHS community and encourages everyone to be involved. Visit our website to learn more.

1. Become a member today
2. Join our active private Facebook group
3. Read the weekly JagMail emails we send using FCPS News You Choose
4. Become a Red Bag Donor to support our food pantry work

Questions or ideas? Please reach out.

FCPS Cares

Do you know a Falls Church HS 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.

7521 Jaguar Trail, Falls Church, VA 22042  | Main Office: 703.207.4000
Attendance: 703.207.4019 | Web | Twitter | YouTube

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Useful Links/Information

FCHS Bell Schedule

Schoology

SIS ParentVUE

FCPS School Year Calendar

Important Dates

• 12/12 - PTSA Meeting (7:00 pm, Library)
• 12/23-1/3 - Winter Break
• 1/9 - Curriculum Night (6:15 pm, see announcement below)
• 1/15 - College Parent Night (see announcement below)
• 1/23 - FAFSA Completion Event (see announcement below)

Attendance Matters!

Every year, absences spike in the weeks before and after winter break. It’s time to break that cycle. Give your child the gift of attendance and help build a habit of good attendance.

We have two more weeks before the Winter Break. Make sure your child is in school every day, right up until vacation starts. Our teachers will be teaching, and our students will be learning but it’s harder to teach, and harder to learn when too many students are absent. 

Let's work together to prevent chronic absenteeism!

10 Reasons Falls Church Stands Out!

Click here to see 10 reasons why FCHS stands out!

Curriculum Night January 9th 6:15-8:00pm

We wanted to share with you that the first big event to begin our academic advising season will be our curriculum night. We will hold the event in person, hosted by our Principal, Director of Student Services, Academy Administrator, Director of Student Activities and department representatives.

Who: Students, Parents & Caregivers of 8th, 9th, 10th, & 11th graders that will be attending FCHS in the Fall of 2025. We are also planning specialized sessions for Multilingual Learners (formally ESOL), Literacy courses, Advanced Academics (Honors, AP, & DE), and Math pathways.  

When: January 9, 2025,  6:15pm presentation, 7:00pm academic fair with representatives available to answer questions about content and levels including the elective options. 

Where: Falls Church High School Lecture hall and cafeteria (Door 7 & 9)

What: Curriculum night is a presentation to families regarding course selection information, diploma requirements, Academy opportunities and curriculum information. The Falls Church Academy is included and holds an open house to allow all eligible high school students a chance to learn about the Academy offerings. Academy representatives from Marshall, Fairfax, Edison, Chantilly, and West Po are also present.

Why: Your child will be selecting his/her/their courses for the next school year, this presentation offers lots of information on making the best choices for a successful school year.

College Parent Night Thursday, January 15, 7:00-9:00 pm FCHS Lecture Hall (enter via door #7)

We will discuss what underclassmen (grades 9-11) should be doing now to prepare for college, the college application process, how to pay for college, and how parents can support their students through this process. While this presentation is mainly geared toward juniors, parents with students (and students themselves) in any grade are welcome to attend! 

We have a great group of colleges representatives lined up:

• Joyce Lee- University of Utah
• Eric Ahlstrand- Dartmouth College
• Alexis Jenkins- Radford University
• Melissa Ward- Miami University- Ohio

Many of these college representatives have worked for and/or attended several institutions of higher learning. They are a wealth of information and a valuable resource not to be missed! If you have any questions, please contact FCHS College & Career Specialist Terri Markwart [email protected]

FAFSA Completion Event January 23, 7:00-9:00 pm FCHS Cafeteria (enter via Door #9)

Seniors who plan to attend NOVA and/or a 4-year college should complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) in order for schools to determine eligibility for financial aid/scholarships/Pell Grants, etc. College Access Fairfax has partnered with FCPS high schools to provide families assistance with completing the FAFSA. NOTE: Student & Parent MUST have created their FSA ID NO later than January 20 in order to complete the FAFSA on January 23.  Create your FSA ID HERE  Begin the FAFSA HERE  WHAT should I bring to a FAFSA completion event?

*If you are unable to attend on January 23, please go to College Access Fairfax homepage for additional FAFSA Completion Event dates/locations. Falls Church HS families may attend ANY of these FAFSA Completion Events at ANY high school; you do NOT need to attend the host school.

No-Cost Mental Health Teletherapy 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 Teletherapy webpage for information on this service.

Food Assistance and Resource Guide

Food insecurity impacts more than 96,000 Fairfax County residents. There are many resources available to support those who need food assistance. Learn how to help these families and the many resources available to support those who need food assistance on Fairfax County’s website or view the county’s Human Services Resource Guide.

Bundle Up With Books Over Break

Fairfax County Public Library’s (FCPL) winter reading adventure has begun and will continue through Friday, January 31, 2025. Visit your local FCPL library branch or visit their website to register and get a sneak peek at the prizes being offered. Check out their Winter Reading Events webpage to learn about laser tag, movie nights, crafting sessions, Noon-Year Eve celebrations, and book discussions.

Get Outdoors for Winter Fun!

The Fairfax County Park Authority has rounded up its seasonal fun into a handy list of events happening across the county. 

Learn more about the Winter Wonderland and the Holiday Train at Burke Lake Park, Holiday on the Farm at Frying Pan Farm Park, and many more fun events.

Boundary Review Community Meetings Start This Month

As a reminder, FCPS has started the process of reviewing school boundaries across the division. This important work will help the district better support student population growth, changes in school capacity, and evolving community needs. Community input is vital to this process. 

With that in mind, FCPS, in partnership with Thru Consulting, will be hosting a series of community meetings. Participants are encouraged to share their thoughts, ask questions, and learn more about the boundary review process.

Please visit FCPS’ website for meeting dates, locations, and other information. Sign up for the School Boundary Review newsletter for updates.

Preparing for Winter Weather

Winter weather will be here before you know it! Watch this video to see how weather-related closing decisions are made.

FCPS’ website is generally the first place to find out about emergency weather closings. Other communication channels will be used as quickly as possible including email, text, social media, and news stations. Learn more about how schedule changes are communicated. 

Be sure to plan for the winter season. Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE, bookmark the FCPS website, and arrange for childcare if needed.

Student Bus Passes Offer Free Transportation

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. Complete the application and return it to your school office. 

Additionally, students at Justice, Annandale, Falls Church, and Marshall high schools, and Davis Center can ride Metrobus for free. Visit the Fairfax County website for details and approved Metrobus routes. Complete the application and return it to your school office. 

Children 12 and younger ride for free on the Fairfax Connector with a paying adult.

PTSA Particulars

The Falls Church HS PTSA supports the entire FCHS community and encourages everyone to be involved. Visit our website to learn more.

1. Become a member today
2. Join our active private Facebook group
3. Read the weekly JagMail emails we send using FCPS News You Choose
4. Become a Red Bag Donor to support our food pantry work

Questions or ideas? Please reach out.

FCPS Cares

Do you know a Falls Church HS 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.

7521 Jaguar Trail, Falls Church, VA 22042  | Main Office: 703.207.4000
Attendance: 703.207.4019 | Web | Twitter | YouTube

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Useful Links/Information

FCHS Bell Schedule

Schoology

SIS ParentVUE

FCPS School Year Calendar

Important Dates

• 12/12 - PTSA Meeting (7:00 pm, Library)
• 12/23-1/3 - Winter Break

Attendance Matters!

If your student has missed five or more school days, they are expected to stay after school on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 3:00 to 4:30 pm to recover the lost time and improve grades by completing missing assignments. Please have your child report to room 116.

Many students miss 10% of a school year, which is almost a month per school year. Therefore, to prevent your child from falling behind, please plan vacations during scheduled FCPS holidays. You can view the FCPS School Calendar here.

Thank you for your collaboration and support at home!

10 Reasons Falls Church Stands Out!

Click here to see 10 reasons why FCHS stands out!

Return Your Federal Impact Aid Survey

FCPS is asking all families to fill out a Federal Impact Aid Survey. The form is available in SIS ParentVUE under Online Packets (in the upper right corner after logging in). Please complete it as soon as possible.

Schools will provide paper forms to families who have not completed the survey in ParentVUE by Monday, November 11. Paper forms should be returned by Wednesday, December 4.

Completing this form for each school-aged child in every household is important. Information from this survey resulted in more than $4 million in funding last year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

For more information, please watch this video on Impact Aid and visit the Federal Impact Aid Survey page.

Preparing for Winter Weather

Winter weather will be here before you know it! Watch this video to see how weather-related closing decisions are made.

FCPS’ website is generally the first place to find out about emergency weather closings. Other communication channels will be used as quickly as possible including email, text, social media, and news stations. Learn more about how schedule changes are communicated. 

Be sure to plan for the winter season. Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE, bookmark the FCPS website, and arrange for childcare if needed.

Boundary Review Community Meetings Start This Month

As a reminder, FCPS has started the process of reviewing school boundaries across the division. This important work will help the district better support student population growth, changes in school capacity, and evolving community needs. Community input is vital to this process. 

With that in mind, FCPS, in partnership with Thru Consulting, will be hosting a series of community meetings. Participants are encouraged to share their thoughts, ask questions, and learn more about the boundary review process.

Please visit FCPS’ website for meeting dates, locations, and other information. Sign up for the School Boundary Review newsletter for updates.

Social and Emotional Learning Screener Results Coming Soon

One of the ways FCPS supports the mental wellness of all students is through the Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener. In October, students in grades 3-12 took this screener, which gives information about their skills such as achieving goals, handling emotions, building relationships with adults and peers, and making good choices. 

The screener also helps students evaluate their school community’s efforts to make them feel valued, included, and supported. Screener data is used to create learning, experiences, and environments for students to succeed.

In early December, families will be able to view student SEL Screener results in SIS ParentVUE. For families who do not have an active ParentVUE account, results will be sent by mail.

Learn more about the screener on the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage. For help understanding your child’s results or ideas to support them at home, review the Family Guide or contact your child’s school.

From the FCHS Spotlight Theatre Company

THE PHANTOM TOLLBOOTH is about a little boy named Milo who wants to be anywhere than where he is at any given time.  He is bored with most things until a Phantom Tollbooth appears in his room.  With the help of his friends Humbug and Tock, he sets out to do the impossible and learns that knowledge about language and math can transport anyone into a world of imagination!  It’s a fun play for children of all ages.

We will be performing at the following locations and times for the community:

• December 4, 7PM at Woodburn Elementary School (3401 Hemlock Drive)
• December 6 & 7, 7PM at Friendship United Methodist Church (3527 Gallows Road)

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

You may refer your child by calling 571-749-2940 or contacting our school counselor, social worker, psychologist, or director of Student Services. Our contact information is on this webpage.

Visit the FCPS Teletherapy webpage for more information.

Student Bus Passes Offer Free Transportation

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. Complete the application and return it to your school office. 

Additionally, students at Justice, Annandale, Falls Church, and Marshall high schools, and Davis Center can ride Metrobus for free. Visit the Fairfax County website for details and approved Metrobus routes. Complete the application and return it to your school office. 

Children 12 and younger ride for free on the Fairfax Connector with a paying adult.

PTSA Particulars

The Falls Church HS PTSA supports the entire FCHS community and encourages everyone to be involved. Visit our website to learn more.

1. Become a member today
2. Join our active private Facebook group
3. Read the weekly JagMail emails we send using FCPS News You Choose
4. Become a Red Bag Donor to support our food pantry work

Questions or ideas? Please reach out.

FCPS Cares

Do you know a Falls Church HS 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.

7521 Jaguar Trail, Falls Church, VA 22042  | Main Office: 703.207.4000
Attendance: 703.207.4019 | Web | Twitter | YouTube

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Useful Links/Information

FCHS Bell Schedule

Schoology

SIS ParentVUE

FCPS School Year Calendar

Important Dates

• 11/18 - The Phantom Tollbooth begins (see announcement below)
• 11/20 - FCHS Parent Clinic (6:30 pm, see announcement below)
• 11/27-11/29 - Thanksgiving Break

Attendance Matters!

Friendly Reminders:

• FCHS Attendance Report Cards for Quarter 1 - All parents should have received their child's attendance report card for Quarter 1. Please check your email and talk to your child about excessive excused and/or unexcused absences. Remember that 18 absences within one school year means your child is chronically absent and at risk of falling behind and not graduating on time. 
• ParentVue - Parents should be checking ParentVue for grades and attendance at least 1-2 times per week. If students know parents are checking, they are more likely to not have missing assignments or low grades and are more likely to get to class on time and not skip periods/classes. 
• Pre-Arranged Absences - If your child is out for 5 or more days, they are required to stay after school on Wednesdays and Thursday from 3:00 - 4:30pm to recover the days missed. We also offer Saturday school every third Saturday of the month from 9 - 12pm. For every 3 hours that they stay after school or at Saturday school, they can recover one day, which will reduce their absences for the year and help prevent them from becoming chronically absent. 
• Family Literacy Program - The Family Literacy Program supports parents with limited English skills, building literacy and community connections for student and their families. It is not too late to sign up. Please click HERE to sign up if you are interested in learning English. It's open enrollment so please take advantage of this amazing opportunity!

Let's work together to prevent chronic absenteeism!

10 Reasons Falls Church Stands Out!

Click here to see 10 reasons why FCHS stands out!

FCHS Parent Clinic

Falls Church High School & The Parent Resource Center invites you to a Parent Clinic where you will learn about the academic resources available to all FCHS students. You will be able to support your child by guiding how to take advantage of these resources so they can finish the year strong.

When: Wednesday, November 20

Time: 6:30 – 8:00 pm

Where: Library

Entrance: Door # 7, located in the back of the building

Spanish Interpreter will be available. Your child is welcome to participate, too.

Questions? Contact Carolina Dotel at [email protected] or by calling 703-207-4074.

Return Your Federal Impact Aid Survey

FCPS is asking all families to fill out a Federal Impact Aid Survey. The form is available in SIS ParentVUE under Online Packets (in the upper right corner after logging in). Please complete it as soon as possible.

Schools will provide paper forms to families who have not completed the survey in ParentVUE by Monday, November 11. Paper forms should be returned by Monday, December 4.

Completing this form for each school-aged child in every household is important. Information from this survey resulted in more than $4 million in funding last year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

For more information, please watch this video on Impact Aid and visit the Federal Impact Aid Survey page.

Boundary Review Community Meetings Start This Month

As a reminder, FCPS has started the process of reviewing school boundaries across the division. This important work will help the district better support student population growth, changes in school capacity, and evolving community needs. Community input is vital to this process. With that in mind, FCPS, in partnership with Thru Consulting, will be hosting a series of community meetings in each of FCPS’ six regions. Participants are encouraged to share their thoughts, ask questions, and learn more about the boundary review process.

Please visit FCPS’ website for meeting dates, locations, and other information. Sign up for the School Boundary Review newsletter for updates.

From the FCHS Spotlight Theatre Company

THE PHANTOM TOLLBOOTH is about a little boy named Milo who wants to be anywhere than where he is at any given time.  He is bored with most things until a Phantom Tollbooth appears in his room.  With the help of his friends Humbug and Tock, he sets out to do the impossible and learns that knowledge about language and math can transport anyone into a world of imagination!  It’s a fun play for children of all ages.

We will be performing at the following locations and times for the community:

• November 18, 7PM at Westlawn Elementary School (3200 Westley Road)
• November 20, 7PM at Fairhill Elementary School (3001 Chichester Lane)
• November 22 & 23, 7PM at Falls Church High School (Blackbox Theatre Lobby)
• December 4, 7PM at Woodburn Elementary School (3401 Hemlock Drive)
• December 6 & 7, 7PM at Friendship United Methodist Church (3527 Gallows Road)

In addition to these performances, we will be performing for our elementary school student friends during the day the three times we are at their school.

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

You may refer your child by calling 571-749-2940 or contacting our school counselor, social worker, psychologist, or director of Student Services. Our contact information is on this webpage.

Visit the FCPS Teletherapy webpage for more information.

Student Bus Passes Offer Free Transportation

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. Complete the application and return it to your school office. 

Additionally, students at Justice, Annandale, Falls Church, and Marshall high schools, and Davis Center can ride Metrobus for free. Visit the Fairfax County website for details and approved Metrobus routes. Complete the application and return it to your school office. 

Children 12 and younger ride for free on the Fairfax Connector with a paying adult.

PTSA Particulars

The Falls Church HS PTSA supports the entire FCHS community and encourages everyone to be involved. Visit our website to learn more.

1. Become a member today
2. Join our active private Facebook group
3. Read the weekly JagMail emails we send using FCPS News You Choose
4. Become a Red Bag Donor to support our food pantry work

Questions or ideas? Please reach out.

FCPS Cares

Do you know a Falls Church HS 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.

7521 Jaguar Trail, Falls Church, VA 22042  | Main Office: 703.207.4000
Attendance: 703.207.4019 | Web | Twitter | YouTube

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Useful Links/Information

FCHS Bell Schedule

Schoology

SIS ParentVUE

FCPS School Year Calendar

Important Dates

• 11/11 - Student Holiday
• 11/13 - FCHS Renovation Updates Community Meeting (6:30 pm, Cafeteria, see announcement below)
• 11/16 - Our Voices, Our Future - Multilingual Learners' Day of Service (see announcement below)
• 11/20 - FCHS Parent Clinic (6:30 pm, see announcement below)

Join Us for a Community Meeting on Our School Renovation Updates! Wednesday, November 13th

Falls Church High School families, you're invited to a community meeting on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the cafeteria. Please enter through Door #1 or Door #9. During this meeting, we’ll share important updates on the school’s renovation progress and discuss what’s still in the works. You’ll also have the chance to ask questions and learn about the next steps.

Learn more about this FCPS capital project and sign up for a project-specific mailing list on the Falls Church High School renovation project webpage.

Our Voices, Our Future - Multilingual Learners' Day of Service

FCPS is thrilled to welcome back Dr. José Luis Zelaya—keynote speaker from this summer’s Multilingual Learners’ Summit—who will inspire secondary students to embrace the strengths of multilingualism. Dr. Zelaya will lead students through hands-on activities to build leadership skills and set a path for future success. This impactful service-learning experience will take place on Saturday, November 16, 2024, from 9:00 to 11:30 a.m. at Edison High School.

Event Highlights:

• Service-learning credit awarded to all attending students
• Interactive student activities focused on leadership and community impact
• Resources for Families

Help Us Spread the Word! Please share the Multilingual Learners’ Day of Service: Our Voices, Our Future with students and families. Encourage and help them register on the FCPS event page. Flyers in multiple languages are also available. Please print and share them with your students, families, and community. If you have questions, please contact Marilyn Rossen ([email protected]) and Sonia Arellano ([email protected]).

Event Flyers:  English  I  Spanish  I Arabic  I  Chinese  I  Korean  I  Urdu  I  Vietnamese

FCHS Parent Clinic

Falls Church High School & The Parent Resource Center invites you to a Parent Clinic where you will learn about the academic resources available to all FCHS students. You will be able to support your child by guiding how to take advantage of these resources so they can finish the year strong.

When: Wednesday, November 20

Time: 6:30 – 8:00 pm

Where: Library

Entrance: Door # 7, located in the back of the building

Spanish Interpreter will be available. Your child is welcome to participate, too.

Questions? Contact Carolina Dotel at [email protected] or by calling 703-207-4074.

School Day SAT and Digital PSAT Scores Are Available

Students who participated in the School Day SAT and Digital PSAT on October 9 are now able to access scores on the College Board BigFuture School App or their College Board accounts. Students who participated in a make-up SAT will have access to scores on Thursday, November 7. 

Watch video tutorials for accessing and understanding SAT scores and Digital PSAT scores.

Return Your Federal Impact Aid Survey

FCPS is asking all families to fill out a Federal Impact Aid Survey. The form is available in SIS ParentVUE under Online Packets (in the upper right corner after logging in). Please complete it as soon as possible.

Schools will provide paper forms to families who have not completed the survey in ParentVUE by Monday, November 11. Paper forms should be returned by Monday, December 4.

Completing this form for each school-aged child in every household is important. Information from this survey resulted in more than $4 million in funding last year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

For more information, please watch this video on Impact Aid and visit the Federal Impact Aid Survey page.

Services for Hearing-Impaired and Visually-Impaired Students

Students with sensory disabilities require specialized services and support to access instruction that is typically presented visually and auditorily (by means of hearing). FCPS provides educational services to students who are deaf, hearing-impaired, or visually impaired. They are supported in various settings, including at their school or through itinerant specialists who travel to different schools to work with students, rather than being based in a single school. Learn more about Services for Students Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing and Services for Students Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired.

Visit the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) website for Resources for Serving Students with Sensory Disabilities.

Tutoring Resources for Families

Is your family looking for resources to help support your child’s academic success? FCPS’ Family Resource Center (FRC) maintains a list of district employees who hold a valid Virginia teaching credential and who are available to be hired as a tutor by parents. FRC maintains this list, but families are responsible for contacting and working directly with tutors. This list is not “approved” by FCPS and is only meant as a resource.

FCPS also partners with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors' services at no cost, including weekly live online classes, on demand 24/7 chat tutoring, essay editing, study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests.

Boundary Review Community Meetings Start This Month

As a reminder, FCPS has started the process of reviewing school boundaries across the division. This important work will help the district better support student population growth, changes in school capacity, and evolving community needs. Community input is vital to this process. With that in mind, FCPS, in partnership with Thru Consulting, will be hosting a series of community meetings in each of FCPS’ six regions. Participants are encouraged to share their thoughts, ask questions, and learn more about the boundary review process.

Please visit FCPS’ website for meeting dates, locations, and other information. Sign up for the School Boundary Review newsletter for updates.

IEP Palooza and Community Resource Fair

Parents/caregivers, school staff, and students over the age of 14 are invited to attend an interactive event celebrating the individualized education program (IEP) process. The IEP Palooza and Community Resource Fair will take place on Saturday, November 16, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m., at Jackson Middle School. 

The event is sponsored by Fairfax County Special Education Parent Teacher Association (SEPTA). Activities include simulated IEP meetings, break-out sessions on the various parts of an IEP, and a resource fair to learn more about community supports. Register in advance. 

From the FCHS Spotlight Theatre Company

THE PHANTOM TOLLBOOTH is about a little boy named Milo who wants to be anywhere than where he is at any given time.  He is bored with most things until a Phantom Tollbooth appears in his room.  With the help of his friends Humbug and Tock, he sets out to do the impossible and learns that knowledge about language and math can transport anyone into a world of imagination!  It’s a fun play for children of all ages.

We will be performing at the following locations and times for the community:

• November 18, 7PM at Westlawn Elementary School (3200 Westley Road)
• November 20, 7PM at Fairhill Elementary School (3001 Chichester Lane)
• November 22 & 23, 7PM at Falls Church High School (Blackbox Theatre Lobby)
• December 4, 7PM at Woodburn Elementary School (3401 Hemlock Drive)
• December 6 & 7, 7PM at Friendship United Methodist Church (3527 Gallows Road)

In addition to these performances, we will be performing for our elementary school student friends during the day the three times we are at their school.

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

You may refer your child by calling 571-749-2940 or contacting our school counselor, social worker, psychologist, or director of Student Services. Our contact information is on this webpage.

Visit the FCPS Teletherapy webpage for more information.

Student Bus Passes Offer Free Transportation

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. Complete the application and return it to your school office. 

Additionally, students at Justice, Annandale, Falls Church, and Marshall high schools, and Davis Center can ride Metrobus for free. Visit the Fairfax County website for details and approved Metrobus routes. Complete the application and return it to your school office. 

Children 12 and younger ride for free on the Fairfax Connector with a paying adult.

PTSA Particulars

The Falls Church HS PTSA supports the entire FCHS community and encourages everyone to be involved. Visit our website to learn more.

1. Become a member today
2. Join our active private Facebook group
3. Read the weekly JagMail emails we send using FCPS News You Choose
4. Become a Red Bag Donor to support our food pantry work

Questions or ideas? Please reach out.

FCPS Cares

Do you know a Falls Church HS 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.

7521 Jaguar Trail, Falls Church, VA 22042  | Main Office: 703.207.4000
Attendance: 703.207.4019 | Web | Twitter | YouTube

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Useful Links/Information

FCHS Bell Schedule

Schoology

SIS ParentVUE

FCPS School Year Calendar

Important Dates

• 11/4-11/8 - Chick-Fil-A Seven Corners “Spirit Week” (see announcement below)
• 11/8 - Bell Game (7:00 pm, Justice HS)
• 11/11 - Student Holiday
• 11/13 - FCHS Renovation Updates Community Meeting (6:30 pm, Cafeteria, see announcement below)
• 11/20 - FCHS Parent Clinic (6:30 pm, see announcement below)

Attendance Matters!

FCPS is thrilled to welcome back Dr. José Luis Zelaya—keynote speaker from this summer’s Multilingual Learners’ Summit—who will inspire secondary students to embrace the strengths of multilingualism. Dr. Zelaya will lead students through hands-on activities to build leadership skills and set a path for future success. This impactful service-learning experience will take place on Saturday, November 16, 2024, from 9:00 to 11:30 a.m. at Edison High School.

Event Highlights:

• Service-learning credit awarded to all attending students
• Interactive student activities focused on leadership and community impact
• Resources for Families

Help Us Spread the Word! Please share the Multilingual Learners’ Day of Service: Our Voices, Our Future with students and families. Encourage and help them register on the FCPS event page. Flyers in multiple languages are also available. Please print and share them with your students, families, and community. If you have questions, please contact Marilyn Rossen ([email protected]) and Sonia Arellano ([email protected]).

Event Flyers:  English  I  Spanish  I Arabic  I  Chinese  I  Korean  I  Urdu  I  Vietnamese

Join Us for a Community Meeting on Our School Renovation Updates! Wednesday, November 13th

Falls Church High School families, you're invited to a community meeting on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the cafeteria. Please enter through Door #1 or Door #9. During this meeting, we’ll share important updates on the school’s renovation progress and discuss what’s still in the works. You’ll also have the chance to ask questions and learn about the next steps.

Learn more about this FCPS capital project and sign up for a project-specific mailing list on the Falls Church High School renovation project webpage.

FCHS Parent Clinic

Falls Church High School & The Parent Resource Center invites you to a Parent Clinic where you will learn about the academic resources available to all FCHS students. You will be able to support your child by guiding how to take advantage of these resources so they can finish the year strong.

When: Wednesday, November 20

Time: 6:30 – 8:00 pm

Where: Library

Entrance: Door # 7, located in the back of the building

Spanish Interpreter will be available. Your child is welcome to participate, too.

Questions? Contact Carolina Dotel at [email protected] or by calling 703-207-4074.

Chick-Fil-A Seven Corners “Spirit Week”

The “Bell Game” between Falls Church and Justice is this upcoming Friday November 8th 7:00 PM at Justice HS. The Chick-Fil-A Seven Corners has revived the “Spirit Week” fundraiser traditionally held between both of our schools from November 4th-8th.

Please see the attached flyer that we have promoted on social media: https://www.instagram.com/p/DBtic-KPb7Z/?igsh=NmdzdmRsZG04Z3lv. Proceeds will be donated to Falls Church HS Activities and the winning school will receive an additional $1,000.

Please consider supporting by placing all orders through the Chick-Fil-A App, select Community Care Event at checkout, and use the code Jags24.

Thanks!

FCHS Outstanding Employee Award Nominations

Nominations are now open for the Outstanding Employee Awards! To submit a nomination for a Falls Church High School Outstanding Employee in one of the categories below, please complete the nomination through this Google form link. You may nominate one employee at our school or multiple employees (one individual may only nominate one employee per category).

All that is required for a preliminary nomination is a paragraph or two about how this employee demonstrates exceptional work in the criteria for that category. The google form link has more information regarding the criteria for each of these awards and the eligibility requirements are below.

Outstanding Teacher  

Eligibility: Has at least three years of experience as a teacher (in any school/school district); librarians are included in this category

Outstanding New Teacher

Eligibility: Has up to three years of experience as a teacher (in any school/school district); librarians are included in this category

Outstanding Principal

Eligibility: Has at least three years of experience as a building principal (in any school/school district)

Outstanding School-Based Leader 

Eligibility: At least one year of experience in their current position as a Schedule-C or School-Based Administrator scale employee (that is not the building principal):

Common positions in this category: Assistant Principals, Academy Administrator, Director of Student Activities, Director of Student Services

Outstanding Professional Employee 

Eligibility: At least one year experience in current position as a Schedule-B employee or other non-instructional employee in a school that supports school leadership

Common positions in this category: School-Based Technology Specialist, Technology Support Specialist, Assessment Coach, System of Support Advisor (SOSA), Career Center Specialist, Instructional Coach, Psychologist, Social Worker, School Counselor, Safety and Security Specialist, Resource Teachers that serve in an administrative role in a school

Outstanding Operational Employee

Eligibility: At least one year of experience in current position as Schedule-A or Classroom Instructional Support Scale employee

Common positions in this category: Administrative and Office Staff, Safety and Security Assistant, Custodial Staff, Food Service Staff, IA, PHA, PHTA, All Parent Liaisons (regardless of how they are paid)  

The deadline to submit a nomination is Monday, November 11 at 11:59 PM.

If you have any questions, please contact Paul Naanou at [email protected]

Return Your Federal Impact Aid Survey

FCPS is asking all families to fill out a Federal Impact Aid Survey. The form is available in SIS ParentVUE under Online Packets (in the upper right corner after logging in). Please complete it as soon as possible.

Schools will provide paper forms to families who have not completed the survey in ParentVUE by Monday, November 11. Paper forms should be returned by Monday, December 4.

Completing this form for each school-aged child in every household is important. Information from this survey resulted in more than $4 million in funding last year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

For more information, please watch this video on Impact Aid and visit the Federal Impact Aid Survey page.

From the FCHS Spotlight Theatre Company

THE PHANTOM TOLLBOOTH is about a little boy named Milo who wants to be anywhere than where he is at any given time.  He is bored with most things until a Phantom Tollbooth appears in his room.  With the help of his friends Humbug and Tock, he sets out to do the impossible and learns that knowledge about language and math can transport anyone into a world of imagination!  It’s a fun play for children of all ages.

We will be performing at the following locations and times for the community:

• November 18, 7PM at Westlawn Elementary School (3200 Westley Road)
• November 20, 7PM at Fairhill Elementary School (3001 Chichester Lane)
• November 22 & 23, 7PM at Falls Church High School (Blackbox Theatre Lobby)
• December 4, 7PM at Woodburn Elementary School (3401 Hemlock Drive)
• December 6 & 7, 7PM at Friendship United Methodist Church (3527 Gallows Road)

In addition to these performances, we will be performing for our elementary school student friends during the day the three times we are at their school.

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

You may refer your child by calling 571-749-2940 or contacting our school counselor, social worker, psychologist, or director of Student Services. Our contact information is on this webpage.

Visit the FCPS Teletherapy webpage for more information.

Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes, on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring, essay editing, and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

Fairfax County Youth Survey on Physical and Mental Well-Being

The Fairfax County School Board and the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors work together to administer the Fairfax County Youth Survey. The survey is given each fall to all students in grades 6, 8, 10, and 12. It provides information about a variety of topics related to our students that influence their physical and mental well-being, from sleep and nutritional habits to substance abuse behaviors, symptoms of depression, and suicidal thoughts. 

The 2024 Fairfax County Youth Survey will be taken by students between Tuesday, November 12, and Friday, November 22. Parents/caregivers will hear about plans to administer the survey from their child's school. They will also be able to opt their student out participating in the survey.

Visit the Fairfax County Youth Survey webpage for more information, and to review the opt-out forms and translations of the parent letter.

✨ Providing students with access to the necessary emotional, behavioral, mental, and physical health services to support their successful engagement in school is part of the FCPS Strategic Plan Goal 2: Safe, Supported, Included, and Empowered.

Student Bus Passes Offer Free Transportation

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. Complete the application and return it to your school office. 

Additionally, students at Justice, Annandale, Falls Church, and Marshall high schools, and Davis Center can ride Metrobus for free. Visit the Fairfax County website for details and approved Metrobus routes. Complete the application and return it to your school office. 

Children 12 and younger ride for free on the Fairfax Connector with a paying adult.

PTSA Particulars

The Falls Church HS PTSA supports the entire FCHS community and encourages everyone to be involved. Visit our website to learn more.

1. Become a member today
2. Join our active private Facebook group
3. Read the weekly JagMail emails we send using FCPS News You Choose
4. Become a Red Bag Donor to support our food pantry work

Questions or ideas? Please reach out.

FCPS Cares

Do you know a Falls Church HS 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.

7521 Jaguar Trail, Falls Church, VA 22042  | Main Office: 703.207.4000
Attendance: 703.207.4019 | Web | Twitter | YouTube

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Important Dates

• 10/31 - End of 1st Quarter
• 10/31 - 2-Hr. Early Release
• 11/1 - Student Holiday
• 11/4-11/5 - Student Holidays
• 11/11 - Student Holiday
• 11/13 - FCHS Renovation Updates Community Meeting (6:30 pm, Cafeteria, see announcement below)

Useful Links/Information

FCHS Bell Schedule

Schoology

SIS ParentVUE

FCPS School Year Calendar

Attendance Matters!

We are approaching the end of the first quarter, and we will have an early release on 10/31 and 3 holidays where students will be out of school, as we transition to second quarter. Please ensure that your child is in school this week to catch up on missed work and complete assignments before the grade books close at the end of the day on 10/31.

We will have a late bus day on Wednesday only (3:00 - 4:30 pm) this week for students to complete missed assignments. Please have them report to their teachers or to the Deans Office in Room 116 after school on Wednesday if they need to stay. 

Thursday, October 31 - Early release (8:10 am - 12:55 pm) - No late bus due to the early release

Friday, November 1 - Holiday (No students or staff)

Monday, November 4 - Student Holiday/Staff Planning day (No students)

Tuesday, November 5 - Student Holiday/Teacher Workday (No students)

Students will return to school on Wednesday, November 6 for a full day of school. Please send your child to school so they can have a good start to the second quarter. 

Thank you for your support!

Ileana Rios (A-H & ESOL level 1) & Maria Martin (I-Z)

Deans of students

[email protected]

Join Us for a Community Meeting on Our School Renovation Updates! Wednesday, November 13th

Falls Church High School families, you're invited to a community meeting on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the cafeteria. During this meeting, we’ll share important updates on the school’s renovation progress and discuss what’s still in the works. You’ll also have the chance to ask questions and learn about the next steps.

Learn more about this FCPS capital project and sign up for a project-specific mailing list on the Falls Church High School renovation project webpage.

FCHS Recognized on 2024 Advanced Placement School Honor Roll

The College Board announced that 17 FCPS high schools have been named to the Advanced Placement (AP) School Honor Roll. Schools can earn bronze, silver, gold, or platinum distinction. 

This annual opportunity for recognition is based on criteria that reflect a commitment to increasing college-going culture, providing opportunities for students to earn college credit, and maximizing college readiness.

See the list of schools named to the AP School Honor Roll.

Our Voices, Our Future: Multilingual Learners’ Day of Service

Our Voices, Our Future:  Multilingual Learners’ Day of Service will be offered for FCPS secondary students on Saturday, November 16, 2024, from 9:00-11:30 a.m. at Edison High School.  Dr. José Luis Zelaya, keynote speaker at the Multilingual Learners’ Summit this past summer, will be returning as the featured guest for this student workshop.  Dr. Zelaya will engage and empower students with the strengths of multilingualism, as students explore leadership skills to plan for future success. 

Reflective service learning practices allow students to impact their communities through advocacy, engagement, and empowerment.  All FCPS secondary students who attend will earn service learning credit for participating. 

Students planning to attend should register and bring their FCPS laptop to the event.  Light refreshments and family resources will be available for parents/caregivers during the student workshop. 

Return Your Federal Impact Aid Survey

FCPS is asking all families to fill out a Federal Impact Aid Survey. The form is available in SIS ParentVUE under Online Packets (in the upper right corner after logging in). Please complete it as soon as possible.

Schools will provide paper forms to families who have not completed the survey in ParentVUE by Monday, November 11. Paper forms should be returned by Monday, December 4.

Completing this form for each school-aged child in every household is important. Information from this survey resulted in more than $4 million in funding last year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

For more information, please watch this video on Impact Aid and visit the Federal Impact Aid Survey page.

FCHS Outstanding Employee Award Nominations

Nominations are now open for the Outstanding Employee Awards! To submit a nomination for a Falls Church High School Outstanding Employee in one of the categories below, please complete the nomination through this Google form link. You may nominate one employee at our school or multiple employees (one individual may only nominate one employee per category).

All that is required for a preliminary nomination is a paragraph or two about how this employee demonstrates exceptional work in the criteria for that category. The google form link has more information regarding the criteria for each of these awards and the eligibility requirements are below.

Outstanding Teacher  

Eligibility: Has at least three years of experience as a teacher (in any school/school district); librarians are included in this category

Outstanding New Teacher

Eligibility: Has up to three years of experience as a teacher (in any school/school district); librarians are included in this category

Outstanding Principal

Eligibility: Has at least three years of experience as a building principal (in any school/school district)

Outstanding School-Based Leader 

Eligibility: At least one year of experience in their current position as a Schedule-C or School-Based Administrator scale employee (that is not the building principal):

Common positions in this category: Assistant Principals, Academy Administrator, Director of Student Activities, Director of Student Services

Outstanding Professional Employee 

Eligibility: At least one year experience in current position as a Schedule-B employee or other non-instructional employee in a school that supports school leadership

Common positions in this category: School-Based Technology Specialist, Technology Support Specialist, Assessment Coach, System of Support Advisor (SOSA), Career Center Specialist, Instructional Coach, Psychologist, Social Worker, School Counselor, Safety and Security Specialist, Resource Teachers that serve in an administrative role in a school

Outstanding Operational Employee

Eligibility: At least one year of experience in current position as Schedule-A or Classroom Instructional Support Scale employee

Common positions in this category: Administrative and Office Staff, Safety and Security Assistant, Custodial Staff, Food Service Staff, IA, PHA, PHTA, All Parent Liaisons (regardless of how they are paid)  

The deadline to submit a nomination is Monday, November 11 at 11:59 PM.

If you have any questions, please contact Paul Naanou at [email protected]

From the FCHS Spotlight Theatre Company

THE PHANTOM TOLLBOOTH is about a little boy named Milo who wants to be anywhere than where he is at any given time.  He is bored with most things until a Phantom Tollbooth appears in his room.  With the help of his friends Humbug and Tock, he sets out to do the impossible and learns that knowledge about language and math can transport anyone into a world of imagination!  It’s a fun play for children of all ages.

We will be performing at the following locations and times for the community:

• November 18, 7PM at Westlawn Elementary School (3200 Westley Road)
• November 20, 7PM at Fairhill Elementary School (3001 Chichester Lane)
• November 22 & 23, 7PM at Falls Church High School (Blackbox Theatre Lobby)
• December 4, 7PM at Woodburn Elementary School (3401 Hemlock Drive)
• December 6 & 7, 7PM at Friendship United Methodist Church (3527 Gallows Road)

In addition to these performances, we will be performing for our elementary school student friends during the day the three times we are at their school.

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

You may refer your child by calling 571-749-2940 or contacting our school counselor, social worker, psychologist, or director of Student Services. Our contact information is on this webpage.

Visit the FCPS Teletherapy webpage for more information.

Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes, on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring, essay editing, and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

Fairfax County Youth Survey on Physical and Mental Well-Being

The Fairfax County School Board and the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors work together to administer the Fairfax County Youth Survey. The survey is given each fall to all students in grades 6, 8, 10, and 12. It provides information about a variety of topics related to our students that influence their physical and mental well-being, from sleep and nutritional habits to substance abuse behaviors, symptoms of depression, and suicidal thoughts. 

The 2024 Fairfax County Youth Survey will be taken by students between Tuesday, November 12, and Friday, November 22. Parents/caregivers will hear about plans to administer the survey from their child's school. They will also be able to opt their student out participating in the survey.

Visit the Fairfax County Youth Survey webpage for more information, and to review the opt-out forms and translations of the parent letter.

✨ Providing students with access to the necessary emotional, behavioral, mental, and physical health services to support their successful engagement in school is part of the FCPS Strategic Plan Goal 2: Safe, Supported, Included, and Empowered.

Student Bus Passes Offer Free Transportation

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. Complete the application and return it to your school office. 

Additionally, students at Justice, Annandale, Falls Church, and Marshall high schools, and Davis Center can ride Metrobus for free. Visit the Fairfax County website for details and approved Metrobus routes. Complete the application and return it to your school office. 

Children 12 and younger ride for free on the Fairfax Connector with a paying adult.

PTSA Particulars

The Falls Church HS PTSA supports the entire FCHS community and encourages everyone to be involved. Visit our website to learn more.

1. Become a member today
2. Join our active private Facebook group
3. Read the weekly JagMail emails we send using FCPS News You Choose
4. Become a Red Bag Donor to support our food pantry work

Questions or ideas? Please reach out.

FCPS Cares

Do you know a Falls Church HS 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.

7521 Jaguar Trail, Falls Church, VA 22042  | Main Office: 703.207.4000
Attendance: 703.207.4019 | Web | Twitter | YouTube

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Important Dates

• 10/31 - End of 1st Quarter
• 10/31 - 2-Hr. Early Release
• 11/1 - Student Holiday
• 11/4-11/5 - Student Holidays

Useful Links/Information

FCHS Bell Schedule

Schoology

SIS ParentVUE

FCPS School Year Calendar

Attendance Matters!

Starting this week, students can stay after school on Wednesday and Thursday until 4:30 to make up missing assignments. Every three hours a student stays after school, before school, or comes to Saturday school, they will get back one full day missed, preventing or helping them from becoming chronically absent. 

Students need to report to the cafeteria right after dismissal. Mrs. Martin will be supporting on Wednesday and Mrs. Rios on Thursday. We will track those hours in SIS. 

We look forward to working together to close the achievement gaps and chronic absenteeism by getting caught up in your academics. Our goal is the success of all students!

Safeway Immunization Clinics for All FCPS Students 

Safeway Pharmacy will host immunization clinics for any FCPS student age 18 or younger at Frost Middle School on Monday, October 28, and Tuesday, October 29, from 3 to 7 p.m.

Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are highly encouraged to avoid wait times. A parent or guardian must accompany walk-in students age 18 or younger to provide consent. Learn more about immunization resources and registering in other languages for the Safeway clinic. 

Students age 19 and older may access free immunizations at their middle/high school immunization clinic, the Fairfax County Health Department or through other community resources.

Middle and High School Clinics

FCPS is partnering with the health department to host immunization clinics at middle and high schools. Clinics will take place during the school day. Students may only participate in the clinic at the school where they are enrolled. Parental/caregiver consent is required for students to receive immunizations.

Please check the Immunization Resources page for clinic locations, dates, and how to submit a consent form.

FCHS Outstanding Employee Award Nominations

Nominations are now open for the Outstanding Employee Awards! To submit a nomination for a Falls Church High School Outstanding Employee in one of the categories below, please complete the nomination through this Google form link. You may nominate one employee at our school or multiple employees (one individual may only nominate one employee per category).

All that is required for a preliminary nomination is a paragraph or two about how this employee demonstrates exceptional work in the criteria for that category. The google form link has more information regarding the criteria for each of these awards and the eligibility requirements are below.

Outstanding Teacher  

Eligibility: Has at least three years of experience as a teacher (in any school/school district); librarians are included in this category

Outstanding New Teacher

Eligibility: Has up to three years of experience as a teacher (in any school/school district); librarians are included in this category

Outstanding Principal

Eligibility: Has at least three years of experience as a building principal (in any school/school district)

Outstanding School-Based Leader 

Eligibility: At least one year of experience in their current position as a Schedule-C or School-Based Administrator scale employee (that is not the building principal):

Common positions in this category: Assistant Principals, Academy Administrator, Director of Student Activities, Director of Student Services

Outstanding Professional Employee 

Eligibility: At least one year experience in current position as a Schedule-B employee or other non-instructional employee in a school that supports school leadership

Common positions in this category: School-Based Technology Specialist, Technology Support Specialist, Assessment Coach, System of Support Advisor (SOSA), Career Center Specialist, Instructional Coach, Psychologist, Social Worker, School Counselor, Safety and Security Specialist, Resource Teachers that serve in an administrative role in a school

Outstanding Operational Employee

Eligibility: At least one year of experience in current position as Schedule-A or Classroom Instructional Support Scale employee

Common positions in this category: Administrative and Office Staff, Safety and Security Assistant, Custodial Staff, Food Service Staff, IA, PHA, PHTA, All Parent Liaisons (regardless of how they are paid)  

The deadline to submit a nomination is Monday, November 11 at 11:59 PM.

If you have any questions, please contact Paul Naanou at [email protected]

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

You may refer your child by calling 571-749-2940 or contacting our school counselor, social worker, psychologist, or director of Student Services. Our contact information is on this webpage.

Visit the FCPS Teletherapy webpage for more information.

From the College & Career Center Paying for College: The Financial Aid Process

Are you interested in learning more about the college financial aid process works? Where to find scholarships? FAFSA details & deadlines? Then plan to attend this event on Thursday, October 24.  

Thursday, October 24, 7– 9:00 pm FCHS Lecture Hall, College Access Fairfax will present, “Paying for College: The Financial Aid Process.” College Access Fairfax will also provide tips on the scholarship search and how to make sense of college financial aid packages. Parents and students in ALL grades are invited. It’s never too early to start planning! College Access Fairfax is a non-profit, FCPS Partner Organization. FCHS College & Career Specialist, Terri Markwart, will also be available to answer questions.

 *Lecture Hall is located near the back of the building; please enter via Door #7.

**Spanish interpretation will be available.

VCAW-Virginia College Application Week 2024- October 21-25

Are you planning to apply to a Virginia college and would like to apply for free?

Need some last minute help with your application and/or essay in order to apply by November 1st ?

• FCHS students will be eligible to receive application fee waivers for most Virginia public and private institutions (as well as a few select out of state schools) during VCAW 2024!
• There will also be LOTS of opportunities to receive assistance with your application before applying by the Early Action deadline- November 1 for most schools. Check out the attached calendar for more details!

Email Ms. Markwart with questions [email protected]   

Prepare for Your Student’s Future at College Fair and Postsecondary Nights

A two-night postsecondary virtual event will be held on Monday, October 21, and Tuesday, October 22, 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.

Fairfax County Youth Survey on Physical and Mental Well-Being

The Fairfax County School Board and the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors work together to administer the Fairfax County Youth Survey. The survey is given each fall to all students in grades 6, 8, 10, and 12. It provides information about a variety of topics related to our students that influence their physical and mental well-being, from sleep and nutritional habits to substance abuse behaviors, symptoms of depression, and suicidal thoughts. 

The 2024 Fairfax County Youth Survey will be taken by students between Tuesday, November 12, and Friday, November 22. Parents/caregivers will hear about plans to administer the survey from their child's school. They will also be able to opt their student out participating in the survey.

Visit the Fairfax County Youth Survey webpage for more information, and to review the opt-out forms and translations of the parent letter.

✨ Providing students with access to the necessary emotional, behavioral, mental, and physical health services to support their successful engagement in school is part of the FCPS Strategic Plan Goal 2: Safe, Supported, Included, and Empowered.

Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes, on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring, essay editing, and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

Student Bus Passes Offer Free Transportation

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. Complete the application and return it to your school office. 

Additionally, students at Justice, Annandale, Falls Church, and Marshall high schools, and Davis Center can ride Metrobus for free. Visit the Fairfax County website for details and approved Metrobus routes. Complete the application and return it to your school office. 

Children 12 and younger ride for free on the Fairfax Connector with a paying adult.

From the FCHS Spotlight Theatre Company

THE PHANTOM TOLLBOOTH is about a little boy named Milo who wants to be anywhere than where he is at any given time.  He is bored with most things until a Phantom Tollbooth appears in his room.  With the help of his friends Humbug and Tock, he sets out to do the impossible and learns that knowledge about language and math can transport anyone into a world of imagination!  It’s a fun play for children of all ages.

We will be performing at the following locations and times for the community:

• November 18, 7PM at Westlawn Elementary School (3200 Westley Road)
• November 20, 7PM at Fairhill Elementary School (3001 Chichester Lane)
• November 22 & 23, 7PM at Falls Church High School (Blackbox Theatre Lobby)
• December 4, 7PM at Woodburn Elementary School (3401 Hemlock Drive)
• December 6 & 7, 7PM at Friendship United Methodist Church (3527 Gallows Road)

In addition to these performances, we will be performing for our elementary school student friends during the day the three times we are at their school.

PTSA Particulars

The Falls Church HS PTSA supports the entire FCHS community and encourages everyone to be involved. Visit our website to learn more.

1. Become a member today
2. Join our active private Facebook group
3. Read the weekly JagMail emails we send using FCPS News You Choose
4. Become a Red Bag Donor to support our food pantry work

Questions or ideas? Please reach out.

FCPS Cares

Do you know a Falls Church HS 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.

7521 Jaguar Trail, Falls Church, VA 22042  | Main Office: 703.207.4000
Attendance: 703.207.4019 | Web | Twitter | YouTube

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Important Dates

• 10/9 - PSAT/SAT Day (see announcement below)
• 10/14 - Student Holiday/Staff Development Day

Useful Links/Information

FCHS Bell Schedule

Schoology

SIS ParentVUE

FCPS School Year Calendar

October 9th PSAT & SAT Day

This Wednesday, October 9th, we will have an early release bell schedule and modified day in order to provide our 10th and 11th graders the PSAT. Seniors that registered ahead of time will have an opportunity to take the SAT. For those that missed the deadline, they can still register for Saturday opportunities through College Board.

All 9th graders are expected to complete asynchronous work on Schoology from home.   

If your 10th, 11th, or 12th grader wants to leave when their testing room is done, estimated around 11:30, please complete the Early Release form linked below. We cannot process day of dismissals that are phoned in.

Early Release form for Oct 9 

Upcoming Immunization Clinics Free Immunizations for All FCPS Students

Does your child need school-required immunizations? If so, please check out the options below.

Safeway Immunization Clinics for All FCPS Students

Safeway Pharmacy will be providing immunizations at Frost Middle School for all FCPS students at no cost on: 

• Tuesday, October 8, 3-7 p.m.
• Saturday, October 12, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Monday, October 28, 3-7 p.m.

Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are highly encouraged to avoid wait times. A parent or guardian must accompany walk-in students under the age of 19 to provide consent. Learn more about immunization resources and registering in other languages for the Safeway clinic.

Elementary School Clinics

The Fairfax County Health Department will provide immunizations for FCPS elementary students on limited early release Mondays at their district offices. All school-required immunizations will be offered at no cost. Call 703-246-7100 to make your appointment.

Middle and High School Clinics

FCPS is partnering with the health department to host immunization clinics at middle and high schools. Clinics will take place during the school day. Students may only participate in the clinic at the school where they are enrolled. Parental/caregiver consent is required for students to receive immunizations.

Please check the Immunization Resources page for clinic locations, dates, and how to submit a consent form.

Social Studies Basal Resources Review

FCPS is adopting Social Studies Basal Resources for the 2025-26 school year. Basal resources are the primary resources used to support instruction in a given subject. Public review of the instructional materials under consideration — which is part of the process for selecting new resources — is underway. Visit the Community Review webpage for more information on how to view the materials online or in person. 

All community feedback will be shared with School Board members before they vote to select materials in spring 2025. FCPS adopts basal resources by the process outlined in Regulation 3004.

Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes, on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring, essay editing, and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

Prepare for Your Student’s Future at College Fair and Postsecondary Nights

The annual FCPS College Fair will be held on Sunday, October 20, at George Mason University’s Eagle Bank Arena, from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Approximately 220 colleges and universities will be represented, including two- and four-year schools and U.S. Service Academies. 

Following the fair, a two-night postsecondary virtual event will be held on Monday, October 21, and Tuesday, October 22, 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.

Student Bus Passes Offer Free Transportation

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. Complete the application and return it to your school office. 

Additionally, students at Justice, Annandale, Falls Church, and Marshall high schools, and Davis Center can ride Metrobus for free. Visit the Fairfax County website for details and approved Metrobus routes. Complete the application and return it to your school office. 

Children 12 and younger ride for free on the Fairfax Connector with a paying adult.

From the FCHS Spotlight Theatre Company

THE PHANTOM TOLLBOOTH is about a little boy named Milo who wants to be anywhere than where he is at any given time.  He is bored with most things until a Phantom Tollbooth appears in his room.  With the help of his friends Humbug and Tock, he sets out to do the impossible and learns that knowledge about language and math can transport anyone into a world of imagination!  It’s a fun play for children of all ages.

We will be performing at the following locations and times for the community:

• November 18, 7PM at Westlawn Elementary School (3200 Westley Road)
• November 20, 7PM at Fairhill Elementary School (3001 Chichester Lane)
• November 22 & 23, 7PM at Falls Church High School (Blackbox Theatre Lobby)
• December 4, 7PM at Woodburn Elementary School (3401 Hemlock Drive)
• December 6 & 7, 7PM at Friendship United Methodist Church (3527 Gallows Road)

In addition to these performances, we will be performing for our elementary school student friends during the day the three times we are at their school.

PTSA Particulars

The Falls Church HS PTSA supports the entire FCHS community and encourages everyone to be involved. Visit our website to learn more.

1. Become a member today
2. Join our active private Facebook group
3. Read the weekly JagMail emails we send using FCPS News You Choose
4. Become a Red Bag Donor to support our food pantry work

Questions or ideas? Please reach out.

FCPS Cares

Do you know a Falls Church HS 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.

7521 Jaguar Trail, Falls Church, VA 22042  | Main Office: 703.207.4000
Attendance: 703.207.4019 | Web | Twitter | YouTube

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

Helicopter Landing Today Monday, October 7

Jaguar Community,

The Fairfax County Police Department (FCPD) Helicopter division will be visiting the Falls Church Academy on Monday, Oct 7th from 9:00 – 10:30 am. As part of this demonstration, a FCPD Helicopter will land on the Falls Church High School baseball field. The purpose is to provide students in the EMT and Criminal Justice courses a firsthand opportunity to view the helicopter and gain an understanding of its capabilities and functionality. This is only a demonstration and it’s scheduled to depart roughly an hour later.

Thanks!

7521 Jaguar Trail, Falls Church, VA 22042  | Main Office: 703.207.4000
Attendance: 703.207.4019 | Web | Twitter | YouTube

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Important Dates

• 10/3 - Student Holiday
• 10/4 - Teacher Workday/Student Holiday
• 10/9 - PSAT/SAT Day

Useful Links/Information

FCHS Bell Schedule

Schoology

SIS ParentVUE

FCPS School Year Calendar

Congratulations...

To the following students who have been recognized as Commended Students in the National Merit Scholarship Program!

• Leslie Fon
• Christopher Haase
• Diego Mahon-Santos
• Minh-Vien Nguyen
• Isabella Phillips
• Katherine Schlageter-Prettyman
• Phoebe Wilkes
• Benita Xavier

And to Coach Coogan for being recognized as the Washington Commanders Coach of the Week!

Attendance Matters!

September marks Attendance Awareness Month, and we're excited to highlight the important role regular attendance plays in your child's educational journey. Consistent attendance is not just about being present; it's a cornerstone of academic growth, socio-emotional development, and overall educational success.

At FCHS, we value our partnership with you in supporting our students. To strengthen this collaboration, we want to ensure you have access to our current attendance policies and practices, as well as introduce you to our dedicated attendance team.

Please review the division-wide policies and school specific practices attached here.

Together, we can create an environment where every student thrives through regular attendance.

#AttendTodayAchieveTomorrow

From the FCHS Spotlight Theatre Company

Please help me congratulate the cast and crew of THE PHANTOM TOLLBOOTH, our TOURING PRODUCTION this fall!

THE PHANTOM TOLLBOOTH is about a little boy named Milo who wants to be anywhere than where he is at any given time.  He is bored with most things until a Phantom Tollbooth appears in his room.  With the help of his friends Humbug and Tock, he sets out to do the impossible and learns that knowledge about language and math can transport anyone into a world of imagination!  It’s a fun play for children of all ages.

We will be performing at the following locations and times for the community:

• November 18, 7PM at Westlawn Elementary School (3200 Westley Road)
• November 20, 7PM at Fairhill Elementary School (3001 Chichester Lane)
• November 22 & 23, 7PM at Falls Church High School (Blackbox Theatre Lobby)
• December 4, 7PM at Woodburn Elementary School (3401 Hemlock Drive)
• December 6 & 7, 7PM at Friendship United Methodist Church (3527 Gallows Road)

In addition to these performances, we will be performing for our elementary school student friends during the day the three times we are at their school.

Students to Be Surveyed on Social-Emotional Learning

FCPS is committed to supporting the mental wellness of all students. The Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener helps our students share their perspectives on how their schools and communities support them and help them develop the skills they need to succeed.

The screener is offered to all students in grades 3 through 12 in the fall and spring. It addresses skills such as achieving goals, understanding and managing emotions, establishing and maintaining relationships with adults and peers, and making responsible decisions. Students also share how successful their school and community are at making them feel valued, included, and supported. Screener data is used to plan programming for the division, schools, and individual students. 

After each screening, results will be available in the Documents tab of SIS ParentVUE and mailed to families who don’t have a ParentVUE account. For more information, please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage.

Families who wish to opt their child out may do so by completing the opt-out form in the Annual Notice packet or SIS ParentVUE. For more information, please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage or contact our front office. 

Please note that the SEL Screener is not the same as the anonymous Fairfax County Youth Survey, which will take place later this fall.

No-Cost Therapy for High Schoolers

High school students can access virtual mental health services at no cost through an FCPS program with Hazel Health. Their therapists are licensed and also trained in teen-specific challenges.

Students may be referred by a guardian or designated staff member and participate in weekly video therapy sessions. The therapists will work with students until they achieve their therapy goals, or they can help connect families with long-term mental health services in the community if needed. 

Learn more about teletherapy for high school students.

FCPS Trust Policy Supports Caring Culture

Fairfax County Public Schools is proud of its caring culture and strives to provide a safe, welcoming, and inclusive space for all students and families. The FCPS Trust Policy solidifies this commitment and aligns with Fairfax County Goverment's Public Trust and Confidentiality Policy. It ensures that FCPS students and families can access FCPS benefits and services without fear that information will be disclosed, directly or indirectly, to federal immigration officials. Please visit FCPS’ Trust Policy webpage to learn more about the policy and regulation in multiple languages.

Parent/Caregiver Checklist Have You Completed These Important Forms?

We understand that the multiple school forms caregivers receive during the first weeks of school can feel overwhelming, but each one helps set your child up for a successful school year! If you do not have a SIS ParentVUE account, please contact your child’s school for an activation code and follow the directions on the SIS ParentVUE Account webpage. 

🩹 Immunization Requirements 

Please check with your healthcare provider as soon as possible to make sure your child is up to date on the immunizations required by the state of Virginia. Starting Monday, September 30, students who have not provided proof of immunization will not be allowed to attend school. 

You may check your child’s immunization compliance and submit their immunization record in SIS ParentVUE. Records may also be delivered to your school’s front office. 

Alternative immunization documents (below) may also be provided to your school’s front office, but they may not be uploaded in ParentVUE:  

• A healthcare provider’s written statement specifying all administered immunizations.
• A healthcare provider’s written statement of a permanent or temporary medical exemption.
• A notarized Religious Exemption form objecting to the administration of immunizations due to conflicts with religious tenets or practices.

Find more information on immunizations. 

📋 Permission Forms

Families can easily grant permission for their children to access a variety of school resources through the Parent Digital Consent system. Parents can opt their child in or out of resources including online educational tools, school counseling services, and tutoring services. They can also change how student information is managed.Visit the Parent Digital Consent webpage to access the system. Watch this video to see how to use the tool. 

Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R)

The SR&R document explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses. Parents using SIS ParentVUE will be prompted to sign the document when logging in to that platform. A printable version of the document with a signature sheet is available on the SR&R webpage. This form should be signed and returned by Friday, September 30.

PTSA Particulars

The Falls Church HS PTSA supports the entire FCHS community and encourages everyone to be involved. Visit our website to learn more.

1. Become a member today
2. Join our active private Facebook group
3. Read the weekly JagMail emails we send using FCPS News You Choose
4. Become a Red Bag Donor to support our food pantry work

Questions or ideas? Please reach out.

FCPS Cares

Do you know a Falls Church HS 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.

7521 Jaguar Trail, Falls Church, VA 22042  | Main Office: 703.207.4000
Attendance: 703.207.4019 | Web | Twitter | YouTube

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Important Dates

• 9/18 - Hispanic Heritage Celebration (see announcement below)
• 9/19 - PTSA Meeting (7:00 pm, Library)
• 9/20 - Homecoming Football Game (7:00 pm)
• 9/21 - Homecoming Dance (7:00 pm, Main Gym)
• 10/3 - Student Holiday
• 10/4 - Teacher Workday/Student Holiday

Useful Links/Information

FCHS Bell Schedule

Schoology

SIS ParentVUE

FCPS School Year Calendar

Attendance Matters!

Beginning in the 24-25 school year, parents/legal guardians can submit full-day absences ONLY using ParentVUE. Learn more about attendance reporting through ParentVUE.

**ParentVue (SIS) should NOT be used for a pre-arranged absence: Students who know that they will be absent for more than THREE consecutive days must notify the attendance office at least 3-5 days in advance of the absence. A pre-arranged absence form can be obtained from the Attendance Office (room 116).After receiving the pre-arranged form, students will take this form to all of their teachers for signatures and comments. Additionally, the completed form must be submitted to the attendance office prior to the absence. If a student fails to follow this procedure, the absence(s) will be recorded as unexcused. Please DO NOT submit a pre-arranged absence in ParentVue.

Partial Day Absences: To report late arrivals or early dismissals or to update already submitted attendance, please call the attendance line at 703-207-4019.

Reporting an Absence:

• When reporting a student's absence, please be specific about why your student will not attend school today.
• If reporting an ill student, include symptoms, especially if they have a fever, nausea, vomiting, sore throat, and/or cough. If your student has a diagnosis from a healthcare provider, please include that information.

Parent/Caregiver Checklist Have You Completed These Important Forms?

We understand that the multiple school forms caregivers receive during the first weeks of school can feel overwhelming, but each one helps set your child up for a successful school year! If you do not have a SIS ParentVUE account, please contact your child’s school for an activation code and follow the directions on the SIS ParentVUE Account webpage. 

🩹 Immunization Requirements 

Please check with your healthcare provider as soon as possible to make sure your child is up to date on the immunizations required by the state of Virginia. Starting Monday, September 30, students who have not provided proof of immunization will not be allowed to attend school. 

You may check your child’s immunization compliance and submit their immunization record in SIS ParentVUE. Records may also be delivered to your school’s front office. 

Alternative immunization documents (below) may also be provided to your school’s front office, but they may not be uploaded in ParentVUE:  

• A healthcare provider’s written statement specifying all administered immunizations.
• A healthcare provider’s written statement of a permanent or temporary medical exemption.
• A notarized Religious Exemption form objecting to the administration of immunizations due to conflicts with religious tenets or practices.

Find more information on immunizations. 

📋 Permission Forms

Families can easily grant permission for their children to access a variety of school resources through the Parent Digital Consent system. Parents can opt their child in or out of resources including online educational tools, school counseling services, and tutoring services. They can also change how student information is managed.Visit the Parent Digital Consent webpage to access the system. Watch this video to see how to use the tool. 

Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R)

The SR&R document explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses. Parents using SIS ParentVUE will be prompted to sign the document when logging in to that platform. A printable version of the document with a signature sheet is available on the SR&R webpage. This form should be signed and returned by Friday, September 30.

Fueling Student Success: New Food Options Cooked up at FCPS

Students will have more than a dozen new options for lunch and breakfast in school cafeterias  starting this week. New menu items were either favorites at last year’s food show — including Korean BBQ wings, sweet Thai chili wings, chicken tikka masala, and barbacoa street tacos — or were tested with student focus groups and tastings. 

View school menus to see all the new options and when they will become available.

PTSA Particulars

The Falls Church HS PTSA supports the entire FCHS community and encourages everyone to be involved. Visit our website to learn more.

1. Become a member today
2. Join our active private Facebook group
3. Read the weekly JagMail emails we send using FCPS News You Choose
4. Become a Red Bag Donor to support our food pantry work

Questions or ideas? Please reach out.

FCPS Cares

Do you know a Falls Church HS 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.

7521 Jaguar Trail, Falls Church, VA 22042  | Main Office: 703.207.4000
Attendance: 703.207.4019 | Web | Twitter | YouTube

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Important Dates

• 9/20 - Homecoming Football Game (7:00 pm)
• 9/21 - Homecoming Dance (7:00 pm, Main Gym)

Useful Links/Information

FCHS Bell Schedule

Schoology

SIS ParentVUE

FCPS School Year Calendar

Attendance Matters!

Pre-arranged forms: Please remember that completing a pre-arranged form does not guarantee immediate approval. The form must be turned in at least five days before absences. We then must verify the absences with the parent/legal guardian. After verifying the absences, the assistant principal approves or denies the request.

Remember that taking time off while school is in session will be marked as UNL. Lastly, the student will be required to make up the time by staying after school.

Thank you for your collaboration!

Immunization Requirements 

Please check with your health care provider as soon as possible to make sure your child is up to date on the immunizations required by the state of Virginia. Starting Monday, September 30, students who have not provided proof of immunization will not be allowed to attend school. 

You may check your child’s immunization compliance and submit their immunization record in SIS ParentVUE. Records may also be delivered to your school’s front office. 

Alternative immunization documents (below) may also be provided to your school’s front office, but they may not be uploaded in ParentVUE:  

• A health care provider’s written statement specifying all administered immunizations.
• A health care provider’s written statement of a permanent or temporary medical exemption.
• A notarized Religious Exemption form objecting to the administration of immunizations due to conflicts with their religious tenets or practices.

Find more information on immunizations.

2024 Student Rights and Responsibilities 

FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities document (SR&R) explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses to enhance school safety and to create a fair, equitable, and supportive school environment. Read Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid’s letter to families regarding the SR&R. 

Parents/caregivers should talk to their child(ren) about expectations for this school year. Also, please log in to SIS ParentVUE and sign to acknowledge your review of the SR&R, or sign and return the signature sheet to your child’s school by Monday, September 30. 

You can submit questions online regarding the SR&R.

Cell Phones Off, Learning On

Thank you for helping to support the FCPS cell phone policy by waiting to call or text your child about non-urgent matters until the school day is over. In case of an emergency, it is always best to contact the school’s front office to reach your child during class time. 

Visit the FCPS Cell Phone Policy webpage to read more about usage policies by grade level and to share your feedback on the current cell phone policy.

Safety Drills During the School Year

Keeping students and staff safe is a priority for FCPS. Each school has an emergency preparedness plan to respond to incidents such as fires and tornadoes. Schools are required by state law to practice emergency drills, including lockdown drills, each year. Schools are also required to notify parents and guardians at least 24 hours before a school conducts a lockdown drill. However, schools are not required to give the specific date and time of the drill in advance. 

The first lockdown drill of the school year must take place within the first 20 days of school. Preschool and kindergarten students are exempt from practicing the first lockdown drill. 

Your child may come home and talk about their experience during the drill. We encourage you to talk with your child about the importance of being prepared for emergencies. Please review these frequently asked questions to support your students before and after school lockdown drills.

⚠️ Know Our Security Terms

FCPS uses specific terminology to describe the actions school staff and students should take to ensure safety in a variety of situations. It is important for staff, families, and students to understand what the different terms mean and how they impact school operations.

Watch this video to learn about safety terms including lockdown; secure the building; and stay put, stay tuned. 

If students, staff, or community members have a safety concern at school (that is not an immediate emergency), they should submit a tip to the FCPS Safety Tipline. In an emergency, please call 9-1-1.

Receive Credit for Proficiency in Languages

This year's World Languages Credit by Exam will be administered at each FCPS middle, high, and secondary school. 

The World Languages Credit by 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. 

Registration opens on Wednesday, September 4, at 8 a.m., and closes on Friday, October 4, at 4 p.m. Late registrations will not be accepted. Please contact your student’s school counselor to register for the exam. 

Find more information, including the list of eligible languages.

Inova Hospital-Reality Check Program

Do you have a newly licensed driver or about to be licensed driver this school year? If so, you should join us for our FREE upcoming Reality Check Teen Driving Program.

We want all of our teen drivers and families to arrive safely at their destinations, so this is an important program to give parents and teens the tools that they need to make better driving decisions. Who doesn’t want that?

Register now - https://bit.ly/3T35trk

Reality Check will be held on Saturday, September 14th, 2024, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the INOVA Fairfax Medical Campus, Physicians Conference Center. Please arrive before 10:20 a.m. because the program will begin promptly at 10:30 a.m.

If you have questions or need additional information, email Linda Watkins at [email protected].

Everything You Can Do Through SIS ParentVUE

Want to easily access back-to-school forms and checklists? Log in to your SIS ParentVUE account to find forms and make updates.

Update Contact Information

Be among the first to know about weather closings, bus delays, and other critical communications from your school and FCPS by providing your cell phone number and email in SIS ParentVUE. To update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE, click the “Online Packets” tab in the upper right of the screen, then click the “Online Verification/Update” icon. 

Parents/caregivers who do not have a SIS ParentVUE account should print and complete the Emergency Care Information Form (PDF) and submit it to their child’s school.

Complete Permission Forms

Families can now easily give permission for their children to access a variety of school resources through the Parent Digital Consent system. This online tool can be accessed using your SIS ParentVUE account. Parents can easily opt their child in or out of resources including online educational tools, school counseling services, and tutoring services. They can also change how student information is managed.

Visit the Parent Digital Consent webpage to access the system. Watch this video to see how to use the tool. 

Submit Absences

Parents can submit daylong absences through SIS ParentVUE. Log in and click “Report Absence.” Note: Partial day absences and changes of transportation should still be reported directly to the school front office. 

Don’t Have a SIS ParentVUE Account Yet?Contact your school for an activation code and follow the directions on the SIS ParentVUE Account webpage. 

FCPS Cares

Do you know a Falls Church HS 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.

7521 Jaguar Trail, Falls Church, VA 22042  | Main Office: 703.207.4000
Attendance: 703.207.4019 | Web | Twitter | YouTube

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Important Dates

• 9/20 - Homecoming Football Game (7:00 pm)
• 9/21 - Homecoming Dance (7:00 pm, Main Gym)

Useful Links/Information

FCHS Bell Schedule

Schoology

SIS ParentVUE

FCPS School Year Calendar

Attendance Matters!

When a student is absent for a full day or one period, SIS generates an automated message to notify parents of the absence. In the morning, the message will not tell the parent if the absence is for one period or a full day. However, the evening message will tell the parent if the absence is for one period or a full day.

If you receive a message and you know that your child came to school, two things might have happened: the student was late to class, and when the teacher took attendance, was marked UNV, or the student did not show up for that particular class (skipped class).

Additionally, you will be notified via text and email this week if your child is late for class. You will receive a notification for each class that your child is late. Please have a conversation with your child about the importance of arriving on time to class when you get those notifications. If you have any questions, feel free to call us at 703-207-4044.  

We appreciate your ongoing support and collaboration in ensuring your child has a successful school year. Your involvement is invaluable, and we look forward to working together for the benefit of your child's education!

2024 Student Rights and Responsibilities 

FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities document (SR&R) explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses to enhance school safety and to create a fair, equitable, and supportive school environment. Read Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid’s letter to families regarding the SR&R. 

Parents/caregivers should talk to their child(ren) about expectations for this school year. Also, please log in to SIS ParentVUE and sign to acknowledge your review of the SR&R, or sign and return the signature sheet to your child’s school by Monday, September 30. 

You can submit questions online regarding the SR&R.

Cell Phones Off, Learning On

Thank you for helping to support the FCPS cell phone policy by waiting to call or text your child about non-urgent matters until the school day is over. In case of an emergency, it is always best to contact the school’s front office to reach your child during class time. 

Visit the FCPS Cell Phone Policy webpage to read more about usage policies by grade level and to share your feedback on the current cell phone policy.

Safety Drills During the School Year

Keeping students and staff safe is a priority for FCPS. Each school has an emergency preparedness plan to respond to incidents such as fires and tornadoes. Schools are required by state law to practice emergency drills, including lockdown drills, each year. Schools are also required to notify parents and guardians at least 24 hours before a school conducts a lockdown drill. However, schools are not required to give the specific date and time of the drill in advance. 

The first lockdown drill of the school year must take place within the first 20 days of school. Preschool and kindergarten students are exempt from practicing the first lockdown drill. 

Your child may come home and talk about their experience during the drill. We encourage you to talk with your child about the importance of being prepared for emergencies. Please review these frequently asked questions to support your students before and after school lockdown drills.

⚠️ Know Our Security Terms

FCPS uses specific terminology to describe the actions school staff and students should take to ensure safety in a variety of situations. It is important for staff, families, and students to understand what the different terms mean and how they impact school operations.

Watch this video to learn about safety terms including lockdown; secure the building; and stay put, stay tuned. 

If students, staff, or community members have a safety concern at school (that is not an immediate emergency), they should submit a tip to the FCPS Safety Tipline. In an emergency, please call 9-1-1.

From the College & Career Center

Representatives from Colleges all over the U.S. will begin visits to FCHS the Week of August 28.  Juniors and Seniors must sign up in Naviance to meet with college representatives

Wednesday, October 9  FCPS SAT & PSAT Test Day- ALL FCPS sophomores and juniors will have the opportunity to take the PSAT. ALL Seniors are eligible to take the SAT, but they MUST REGISTER BY SEPTEMBER 4! There is no cost associated with either test on October 9. All students are encouraged to participate.

Sunday, October 20- George Mason University College Fair- 4:00–6: 30 pm Eagle Bank Arena. Students will have the opportunity to meet with representatives from over 250 colleges and universities.  

Thursday, October 24, 7:00-9:00 pm, FCHS Lecture Hall-  College Financial Aid Night. College Access Fairfax and Ms. Markwart will provide information on how to pay for college; scholarships, aid, grants, and loans. Basic FAFSA information will also be provided. 

Tuesday, January 23, 7:00-9:00 pm, FCHS Cafeteria- FAFSA Completion Event. College Access Fairfax, Ms. Markwart, and FCHS staff will assist students and families with completing their FAFSA or VASA. 

Please contact Terri S Markwart, College & Career Specialist, [email protected] with any questions.

Receive Credit for Proficiency in Languages

This year's World Languages Credit by Exam will be administered at each FCPS middle, high, and secondary school. 

The World Languages Credit by 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. 

Registration opens on Wednesday, September 4, at 8 a.m., and closes on Friday, October 4, at 4 p.m. Late registrations will not be accepted. Please contact your student’s school counselor to register for the exam. 

Find more information, including the list of eligible languages.

Inova Hospital-Reality Check Program

Do you have a newly licensed driver or about to be licensed driver this school year? If so, you should join us for our FREE upcoming Reality Check Teen Driving Program.

We want all of our teen drivers and families to arrive safely at their destinations, so this is an important program to give parents and teens the tools that they need to make better driving decisions. Who doesn’t want that?

Register now - https://bit.ly/3T35trk

Reality Check will be held on Saturday, September 14th, 2024, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the INOVA Fairfax Medical Campus, Physicians Conference Center. Please arrive before 10:20 a.m. because the program will begin promptly at 10:30 a.m.

If you have questions or need additional information, email Linda Watkins at [email protected].

Everything You Can Do Through SIS ParentVUE

Want to easily access back-to-school forms and checklists? Log in to your SIS ParentVUE account to find forms and make updates.

Update Contact Information

Be among the first to know about weather closings, bus delays, and other critical communications from your school and FCPS by providing your cell phone number and email in SIS ParentVUE. To update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE, click the “Online Packets” tab in the upper right of the screen, then click the “Online Verification/Update” icon. 

Parents/caregivers who do not have a SIS ParentVUE account should print and complete the Emergency Care Information Form (PDF) and submit it to their child’s school.

Complete Permission Forms

Families can now easily give permission for their children to access a variety of school resources through the Parent Digital Consent system. This online tool can be accessed using your SIS ParentVUE account. Parents can easily opt their child in or out of resources including online educational tools, school counseling services, and tutoring services. They can also change how student information is managed.

Visit the Parent Digital Consent webpage to access the system. Watch this video to see how to use the tool. 

Submit Absences

Parents can submit daylong absences through SIS ParentVUE. Log in and click “Report Absence.” Note: Partial day absences and changes of transportation should still be reported directly to the school front office. 

Don’t Have a SIS ParentVUE Account Yet?Contact your school for an activation code and follow the directions on the SIS ParentVUE Account webpage. 

Lightspeed Parent Report on Child’s Device Activity

FCPS has tools to help parents know more about their child’s activity on any FCPS device. These tools are provided at no cost to families by Lightspeed, the school division’s internet content filtering service.

Parents may sign up for a weekly Parent Report, which will provide a list of the top sites your child visited. The report also offers parents the ability to sign up for free access to the Internet Use Parent Portal. Through the portal, parents may pause their child’s access to the internet on their FCPS device during non-school hours.

Learn more about Lightspeed Parent Reports.

Update Your Child’s Immunizations and Records

Please check with your healthcare provider as soon as possible to make sure your child is up-to-date on the immunizations required by the state of Virginia. Starting Monday, September 30, students who have not provided proof of immunization will not be allowed to attend school. 

You can check your child’s immunization compliance and submit their immunization record in SIS ParentVUE. Records may also be delivered to a school’s front office. 

If your child needs a vaccine, please make an appointment with your healthcare provider, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or access other local services. If needed, families may also provide other immunization documentation including a healthcare provider’s written statement of a permanent or temporary medical exemption or a notarized Religious Exemption Form. 

Find more information on immunizations on the FCPS website.

Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes, on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring, essay editing, and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

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

You may refer your child by calling 571-749-2940 or by contacting our school counselor, social worker, psychologist, or director of Student Services. Find our contact information on this webpage.

Visit the FCPS Teletherapy webpage for more information.

Falls Church Spirit Wear

Stock up now on FC t-shirts (short-sleeves and long-sleeves), hats, sweatshirts, tropical shirts, lanyards, and more! Proceeds will benefit FCHS Athletics. 100% of Pop Up shops profits (at the FCHS Open House, Back to School Night, football games and select other events) support our athletic programs.

Online Spirit Shops provide a portion of profits to our athletic programs. Visit https://www.sharpplant.com/pages/fchs or https://www.spiritshop.com/school/virginia/falls-church/falls-church-high-school Questions? Contact [email protected]

#WeAreFC

FCPS Cares

Do you know a Falls Church HS 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.

7521 Jaguar Trail, Falls Church, VA 22042  | Main Office: 703.207.4000
Attendance: 703.207.4019 | Web | Twitter | YouTube