FCPS

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Important Dates

• 9/19 - Senior Night w/College & Career Specialist (7:00 pm, Library, see announcement below)
• 9/21 - PTSA Meeting (7:00 pm, Library)
• 9/25 - Holiday
• 9/26-9/29 - Underclassmen Pictures
• 10/11 - PSAT/SAT School Day

Attendance Matters! When a Student Should Stay Home From School

Whether students miss school because of illness or any other reason, missing school leads to learning loss.

Help your student succeed by encouraging them to attend as many days as possible, but do make sure your student stays home if they are sick. Visit FCPS’ website for information on when you should keep your child at home.

If your child has a chronic illness, make sure to notify their teacher, so that assistance can be provided if needed. Please contact us as soon as you know your child will be absent. 

Read more about how families can help form good attendance habits.

2023 @CollegeBoard’s National Recognition Program awardees!

Congrats to our 2023 @CollegeBoard’s National Recognition Program awardees! The honor recognizes their academic excellence and hard work in high school, and that’s a cause for celebration!

Thirteen students at FCHS earned academic honors from @CollegeBoard’s National Recognition Programs. The award is an easy way to showcase their hard work with colleges.

• Abigail Romero: NHRA
• Andrew Rivas: NAARA
• Conner Elling: NAARA
• Diego Mahon-Santos: NHRA
• Fabricio Orellana: NHRA
• Hlena Hailemariam: NAARA
• Khai Davis: NAARA
• Loic Bernasconi: NHRA
• Mohamed Elmi: NAARA
• Naum Avila: NHRA
• Safiya Hersi: NAARA
• Samantha Johnson: NAARA
• Widad Khalid: NAARA

Award Key:

National African American Recognition Award (NAARA)

National Hispanic Recognition Award (NHRA)

National Rural and Small Town Award (NRSTA)

National Indigenous Award (NIA)

College Fair and Postsecondary Virtual Events

High school students and their families are invited to attend the annual FCPS College Fair and the Postsecondary Virtual events. The College Fair will feature admissions representatives from more than 250 colleges and universities from across the United States and abroad. The fair will be held at George Mason University’s Eagle Bank Arena on Sunday, October 15, 4-7 p.m. 

The Postsecondary Virtual Event will be held on Monday, October 16, and Tuesday, October 17, 5-8 p.m. The virtual event will feature workshops related to the college admissions process, financial aid, and other postsecondary educational opportunities. 

Students are highly encouraged to register in advance for these events.

From our Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist (SAPS) Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist (SAPS) Introduction 

Each school pyramid has a Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist (SAPS) to provide substance abuse prevention, education, and intervention services. Substance Abuse Prevention Specialists are part of the FCPS Office of Student Safety and Wellness. Like other members of the mental health team (school social workers, school psychologists, and school counselors), SAPS do not provide treatment services, but we support students while they are in the buildings.

Key roles of a Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist:

• Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug education for students, parents, staff, and Fairfax County community stakeholders.
• Intervention services upon violation of the Student Rights and Responsibilities handbook or referral for suspected substance use involvement.
• Assessment of a student’s level of substance use and, if appropriate, subsequent referrals to the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board for additional services or other community resources as appropriate.
• Individual and group interventions for students. Prevention services for students, staff, parents, and Fairfax County community stakeholders.
• Most importantly, building and maintaining positive relationships with students to provide support and encouragement.

Resources:

Free Virtual Parent Support Group

Free Online Narcan Training for Opioid Overdoses (English & Spanish)

Free Lock Boxes for Medications & Firearms

Spiritual Support by Phone for Adults

Spanish Podcast: Tips on How Parents Play an Important Role in Substance Abuse Prevention

Juvenile Court Parent Support Group

For general questions about the FCPS Substance Abuse Prevention Program, please contact the Office of Student Safety & Wellness at: (571) 423-4270.

For further Information & support:

Anna Teeter, [email protected]
Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist

Back-to-School Preventative Health Practices

Flu season is quickly approaching, and communicable diseases continue to be present in our schools. We are committed to providing students with the education and support to help them succeed while maintaining a safe environment for in-person learning. Families and staff are encouraged to engage in the following health practices to prevent the spread of illnesses. 

• Make an appointment to get a flu vaccine as soon as possible. Everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine (with rare exceptions). Flu vaccines are widely available at doctors’ and pediatricians’ offices, grocery stores, and pharmacies.
• Get vaccinated against COVID-19 if you have not done so already. An updated COVID booster for the 2023-2024 season should be released in the coming weeks and will more effectively target the current circulating strains of the virus. Find out where you can get a COVID-19 vaccine or booster in your community by visiting: vaccinate.virginia.gov or call (877) VAX-IN-VA or (877) 829-4682.
• Check with your students’ healthcare providers to make sure they are up to date on their required school entrance immunizations. Immunization records can now be updated online in SIS ParentVUE through the Online Verification Update form.
• Check for mild, cold-like symptoms each day, such as fever, runny nose, cough, or shortness of breath. Parents/caregivers are advised to keep their children home if sick and get them tested for COVID-19 to stop further spread from occurring. Additional guidance noting when to keep your child home due to symptoms and illness is available on the FCPS Attendance webpage. Employees are also advised to stay home and get tested when feeling sick.
• Don’t forget to wash hands regularly, avoid touching the face with unwashed hands, cover the mouth when coughing or sneezing, and limit the time children spend in large group settings with contagious individuals whenever possible.

The most up to date information regarding COVID-19 school health practices is available on the Health and Safety Guidance Document webpage.

Thank you for your continued partnership in keeping our schools safe and healthy.

Caregiver Checklist: Have You Completed These Important Forms? 

During the first weeks of the year, caregivers receive many forms to complete. Several of the most important ones are below:

• Digital Resources Consent: Some FCPS-approved digital resources require parent/caregiver consent before they can be used by students. Find the list of resources which require consent on the Digital Resources - Parent Consent page. This page also includes directions on how to provide permission.
• Student Rights and Responsibilities: This document explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses. Parents using SIS ParentVUE will be prompted to sign the document when they log in to that platform. A printable version of the document with a signature sheet is available on the SR&R webpage.
• Opt-Outs: The Opt-Out Booklet is online or available from your child’s school. It contains information on: 
  • Parents’ rights to inspect and consent or opt out before their child participates in certain surveys.
  • Parents’ rights to inspect instructional materials.
  • Rules regarding student records and disclosure of student information (including photo/video of students) and the right to opt out.
  • Parents’ rights to opt out of the Social Emotional Learning Screener, physical exams not required by state law, career or social emotional counseling, Library Equity Access Pass Project, and/or Tutor.com.
  • The process by which complaints may be filed if parents or students believe their rights have been violated.

Paper forms can be signed and returned to school.

From the FCHS College & Career Center

College Representative Visits to FCHS begin Week of September 12- Juniors and Seniors may sign up in Naviance to meet with college representatives

Tuesday, September 19 7:00 pm FCHS Library- Senior Night- FCHS College & Career Specialist will walk parents/guardians through the college application process

Wednesday, October 11  FCPS SAT & PSAT Testing Day- All FCPS sophomores and juniors will have the opportunity to take the PSAT. All Seniors will be given the opportunity to take the SAT, but they MUST REGISTER BY SEPTEMBER 6! There is no cost associated with either test on October 11. All students are encouraged to participate.

Sunday, October 15- George Mason University College Fair- 4:00 pm– 7:00 pm Eagle Bank Arena. Students will have the opportunity to meet with representatives from over 250 colleges and universities.  

Tuesday, January 9 - College Access Fairfax FAFSA Completion @Annandale HS 6:00-8:30 pm

Saturday, January 20- College Access Fairfax FAFSA Completion @ Justice HS 10:00 am-12:00 pm (noon)

Tuesday, January 30 - College Access Fairfax FAFSA Completion @ Falls Church HS 7:00-9:00 pm

Thursday, February 1- College Access Fairfax FAFSA Completion @ Lewis HS

Terri S Markwart, College & Career Specialist

FCPS Family Resource Center

Free Resources for Families

Did you know that caregivers can access free webinars, confidential consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities? 

Learn more about FCPS’ Family Resource Center (FRC).

Workshops for Families

The Family Resource Center is already scheduling a helpful series of webinars for the 2023-24 school year. Save the date for the following discussions in September. See the full list of workshops. Click on the title to register for each event: 

• Characteristics and Needs of Twice-Exceptional (2e) Learners, on Tuesday, September 19, 10-11:30 a.m.
• Who's the Boss? 5 Ways for Families to Help Kids with Big Emotions, Friday September 29, 10-11:30 a.m.

Be the first to learn about new workshops by signing up for the FRC newsletter.

Student Bus Passes Useful Links/Information

FCHS Bell Schedule

Schoology

SIS ParentVUE

FCPS 22-23 School Year Calendar

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

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Important Dates

• 9/13 - Late Buses Begin (Wednesdays only)
• 9/19 - Senior Night w/College & Career Specialist (7:00 pm, Library, see announcement below)
• 9/21 - PTSA Meeting (7:00 pm, Library)
• 9/26-9/29 - Underclassmen Pictures

Attendance Matters!

As you plan upcoming trips and other family events, please remember the importance of sending your child to school every day. Review the FCPS School Year Calendar and try to plan any time away during long breaks from school. 

Children who show up for school regularly develop fundamental reading and math skills while building a habit of good attendance that will carry them into college and careers. Research shows that children who were chronically absent (missing 18 days or more) in kindergarten and first grade were far less likely to read proficiently at the end of third grade.

Read more about how families can help form good attendance habits.

Caregiver Checklist: Have You Completed These Important Forms? 

During the first weeks of the year, caregivers receive many forms to complete. Several of the most important ones are below:

• Digital Resources Consent: Some FCPS-approved digital resources require parent/caregiver consent before they can be used by students. Find the list of resources which require consent on the Digital Resources - Parent Consent page. This page also includes directions on how to provide permission.
• Student Rights and Responsibilities: This document explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses. Parents using SIS ParentVUE will be prompted to sign the document when they log in to that platform. A printable version of the document with a signature sheet is available on the SR&R webpage.
• Opt-Outs: The Opt-Out Booklet is online or available from your child’s school. It contains information on: 
  • Parents’ rights to inspect and consent or opt out before their child participates in certain surveys.
  • Parents’ rights to inspect instructional materials.
  • Rules regarding student records and disclosure of student information (including photo/video of students) and the right to opt out.
  • Parents’ rights to opt out of the Social Emotional Learning Screener, physical exams not required by state law, career or social emotional counseling, Library Equity Access Pass Project, and/or Tutor.com.
  • The process by which complaints may be filed if parents or students believe their rights have been violated.

Paper forms can be signed and returned to school.

2023-24 Health and Safety Guidance for Schools

Although the COVID-19 hospital transmission level (previously the COVID-19 Community Transmission level) for Fairfax County is currently low, COVID-19 cases have risen in Virginia during the last few weeks, and flu season will soon be upon us. Be sure to review FCPS Health and Safety Guidance for the best ways to prevent the spread of disease and to find out when students should stay home from school.

How to Access Free Resources from Tutor.com

All FCPS students continue to have unlimited access to live, 24/7, one-on-one online tutoring services through Tutor.com at no cost to families. Student participation is optional and parents/caregivers can opt their student(s) out of accessing the services. Get more information on the Tutor.com Online Tutoring Services webpage.

Students can access Tutor.com via a link in Schoology. Additional information about how to log in and access a tutor is provided to families via the following: Elementary - How It Works and Middle & High - How It Works. Questions not answered in the posted resources may be sent to [email protected].

National Honor Society (NHS) Invitations Parents of 11th & 12th Grade Students

Please help us remind students to check their fcpsschools.net email for an invitation to apply to the National Honor Society.  Students need a 3.50 or higher GPA and to be in the 11th or 12th grade. 

There is a strict timeline to apply, so please don’t delay.  If you think your child is eligible to apply but did not get an email, please contact Ms. Sokol at [email protected].

Thanks!

From the College & Career Center

College Representative Visits to FCHS begin Week of September 12- Juniors and Seniors may sign up in Naviance to meet with college representatives

Wednesday, September 13 during 4th Period Advisory/Intervention- Student’s Counselors and the FCHS College & Career Specialist will meet with students to discuss post-secondary (after high school) options which may include: four-year college, two-year college, vocational training (licensure and certification), and military. Please encourage your students to attend this important meeting and to register for more specific follow-up sessions.

Tuesday, September 19 7:00 pm FCHS Library- Senior Night- FCHS College & Career Specialist will walk parents/guardians through the college application process

Wednesday, October 11  FCPS SAT & PSAT Testing Day- All FCPS sophomores and juniors will have the opportunity to take the PSAT. All Seniors will be given the opportunity to take the SAT, but they MUST REGISTER BY SEPTEMBER 6! There is no cost associated with either test on October 11. All students are encouraged to participate.

Sunday, October 15- George Mason University College Fair- 4:00 pm– 7:00 pm Eagle Bank Arena. Students will have the opportunity to meet with representatives from over 250 colleges and universities.  

Tuesday, January 9 - College Access Fairfax FAFSA Completion @Annandale HS 6:00-8:30 pm

Saturday, January 20- College Access Fairfax FAFSA Completion @ Justice HS 10:00 am-12:00 pm (noon)

Tuesday, January 30 - College Access Fairfax FAFSA Completion @ Falls Church HS 7:00-9:00 pm

Thursday, February 1- College Access Fairfax FAFSA Completion @ Lewis HS

Terri S Markwart, College & Career Specialist

FCPS Family Resource Center

Free Resources for Families

Did you know that caregivers can access free webinars, confidential consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities? 

Learn more about FCPS’ Family Resource Center (FRC).

Workshops for Families

The Family Resource Center is already scheduling a helpful series of webinars for the 2023-24 school year. Save the date for the following discussions in September. See the full list of workshops. Click on the title to register for each event: 

• Meet the Author Series: The Self-Driven Child by Dr. William Stixrud, Friday, September 15, 10-11:15 a.m.
• Characteristics and Needs of Twice-Exceptional (2e) Learners, on Tuesday, September 19, 10-11:30 a.m.
• Who's the Boss? 5 Ways for Families to Help Kids with Big Emotions, Friday September 29, 10-11:30 a.m.

Be the first to learn about new workshops by signing up for the FRC newsletter.

Student Bus Passes Useful Links/Information

FCHS Bell Schedule

Schoology

SIS ParentVUE

FCPS 22-23 School Year Calendar

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.

Important Dates

• 9/5 - Tardy Notifications begin (see announcement below)
• 9/7 - FCHS Spotlight Theatre Company Fundraiser (see announcement below)
• 9/9 - Band Tag Day

Attendance Matters!

Take a look at the FCPS Calendar:  

• Ensure that any trips that you have planned for the school year are on weekends and school holidays.  Every day of learning is a day toward success.
• If your child needs to miss school because of an illness or appointment, you must report the absence to the school.  You may submit information via https://fallschurchhs.fcps.edu/about/attendance-form or calling 703-207-4044.  We appreciate your collaboration in scheduling appointments outside of school hours, when possible.
• If you know in advance that your child will miss school, please complete and submit the Prearranged Absence Form.  Forms must be submitted in advance to allow adequate time for administrative review.  When planning trips, please keep in mind that absences add up quickly, and students who are absent 10 percent of the school year, or just two days per month, are considered “chronically absent.”

DID YOU KNOW?

• Students should miss no more than nine days of school each year to stay engaged, successful, and on track to graduation.
• Absences can be a sign that a student is losing interest in school, struggling with school work, dealing with a bully, or facing some other potentially serious difficulty.
• By 6th grade, absenteeism (defined as missing 18 days per school year) is one of three signs that a student may drop out of high school.
• By 9th grade, regular and high attendance is a better predictor of graduation rates than 8th grade test scores.
• Missing 10 percent, or about 18 days, of the school year can drastically affect a student’s academic success.
• Students can be chronically absent even if they only miss a day or two every few weeks.
• Attendance is an important life skill that will help your child graduate from college and keep a job

Tardy Notifications

To help support timely attendance, Falls Church High School is continuing our tardy notification program starting Tuesday, September 5, 2023. This notification program will alert parents each period a student has an unexcused tardy. An unexcused tardy is when a student arrives to class late without a pass. This information will be communicated to you through e-notify approximately 30 minutes after each period ends. If your child is late, you will receive the message below (a similar, but abbreviated message will also be sent via text):

Dear Falls Church High School Parent, You are receiving this notification because your child was late to [period] class on [date]. We stress the importance of timely arrivals to class in order to maximize instructional time and prevent distractions created by late arrivals. Please speak with your child about the importance of arriving to class on time. Thank you for your support. -Falls Church High School Administrative Team

Tardies add up over time and have an impact on student achievement and success in the classroom. It is important that our students arrive to class on time, every period, every day. Should you receive the above message, please have a conversation with your child regarding the importance of attendance.

If you have any questions, please contact your student’s administrator.

#WeAreFC​​​​​​​

National Honor Society (NHS) Invitations Parents of 11th & 12th Grade Students

Please help us remind students to check their fcpsschools.net email for an invitation to apply to the National Honor Society.  Students need a 3.50 or higher GPA and to be in the 11th or 12th grade. 

There is a strict timeline to apply, so please don’t delay.  If you think your child is eligible to apply but did not get an email, please contact Ms. Sokol at [email protected].

Thanks!

SEL Screener Parent Notification and Updates

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 like 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. 

Key updates to the screener this year include:

• Different versions for students in grades 3-5 and 6-12. 
• Fewer topics with more questions to provide schools and families with more data to support planning. 
• Additional questions aligned with FCPS’ commitment to educational equity.

Results are mailed home to families after each screening. 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.

Please note that the SEL Screener differs from the anonymous Fairfax County Youth Survey. For more information about the Youth Survey, see the Fairfax County Youth Survey site.

From the College & Career Center

College Representative Visits to FCHS begin Week of September 12- Juniors and Seniors may sign up in Naviance to meet with college representatives

Wednesday, September 13 during 4th Period Advisory/Intervention- Student’s Counselors and the FCHS College & Career Specialist will meet with students to discuss post-secondary (after high school) options which may include: four-year college, two-year college, vocational training (licensure and certification), and military. Please encourage your students to attend this important meeting and to register for more specific follow-up sessions.

Tuesday, September 19 7:00 pm FCHS Library- Senior Night- FCHS College & Career Specialist will walk parents/guardians through the college application process

Wednesday, October 11  FCPS SAT & PSAT Testing Day- All FCPS sophomores and juniors will have the opportunity to take the PSAT. All Seniors will be given the opportunity to take the SAT, but they MUST REGISTER BY SEPTEMBER 6! There is no cost associated with either test on October 11. All students are encouraged to participate.

Sunday, October 15- George Mason University College Fair- 4:00 pm– 7:00 pm Eagle Bank Arena. Students will have the opportunity to meet with representatives from over 250 colleges and universities.  

Tuesday, January 9 - College Access Fairfax FAFSA Completion @Annandale HS 6:00-8:30 pm

Saturday, January 20- College Access Fairfax FAFSA Completion @ Justice HS 10:00 am-12:00 pm (noon)

Tuesday, January 30 - College Access Fairfax FAFSA Completion @ Falls Church HS 7:00-9:00 pm

Thursday, February 1- College Access Fairfax FAFSA Completion @ Lewis HS

Terri S Markwart, College & Career Specialist

FCHS Spotlight Theatre Company Fundraiser You’re Invited→ Thursday September 7, 4:00pm-8:00pm

Five Guys Merrifield

8130 Arlington Blvd, Falls Church, VA 22042

Meet & Eat with Theatre Arts Director Beth DeMarco & members of the Jaguar Theater Boosters at 7:00pm

20% of All Sales will be donated to the Jaguar Theater Boosters!!

A Great School Year Starts With Mental Wellness

All FCPS high school students can access virtual therapy sessions with licensed counselors from Hazel Health at no cost.

Hazel’s therapists — who specialize in working with teens — can help students address mood/behavior changes, motivation, grief/loss, anxiety, peer and family relationships, and academic stress.

For high schoolers to participate in teletherapy services, caregivers must:

• Give permission for FCPS to share basic demographic information with Hazel in ParentVUE. 
• Consent for Hazel Health services. 

Students must be referred to therapy by a caregiver or designated school staff member.

Visit the FCPS Teletherapy webpage for more information.

SIS ParentVUE Support Your Child’s Success

Access your student’s attendance records, grades, and assignments at any time with SIS ParentVUE. Caregivers should receive an activation code when they register their child. 

Once you have activated a ParentVUE account for an FCPS student, you will keep the same account until the student graduates. Information about students in the same family can be accessed through the same ParentVUE account. Access SIS ParentVUE by using an app on your iPhone, iPad, or Android devices. 

Need help creating a SIS ParentVUE account? This video walks through the steps. Find out more about SIS ParentVUE.

2023-24 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. In late June, the School Board approved changes to the SR&R for the 2023-24 school year. Updates include a revision of dress code expectations, bystander expectations for students witnessing harmful or unsafe behaviors, bullying, and substance abuse responses. 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 Friday, September 29.

Parental Permission to Use Digital Resources

Some FCPS-approved digital resources require parent/caregiver consent before they can be used by students. Find the list of resources which require consent on the Parent Consent webpage. This page also includes directions for providing permission. 

Each digital resource used in FCPS has had an instructional and technical review. Information about the educational technology tools approved for use within FCPS can be found in the online Digital Ecosystem Library.

Find more information about FCPS-approved digital resources on the Digital Resources in FCPS 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.

School Meals

Preparing for and Paying for Meals at School

Parents/caregivers need to provide their students with money to purchase meals at school, send them with a packed lunch, or apply (and be approved) for free and reduced-price meals benefits. School breakfast for students costs $1.75. Lunch is $3.25 for elementary students and $3.50 for middle, secondary, and high school students.

Free and Reduced-Price Meals

The application for free and reduced-priced meals is now available for the 2023-24 school year. Students who were approved for free and reduced-price lunch last year are eligible for the first 30 days of school this year (or until a new application is processed). Families should re-apply as soon as possible for the 2023-24 school year, so eligible students continue to receive meals at no cost. 

Paying With MySchoolBucks

The best way to purchase meals (and keep food lines moving!) is to use MySchoolBucks. Set up your student’s MySchoolBucks account today. Our front office staff can help with any questions. 

MySchoolBucks accounts can be set up to add money to the account automatically, as needed. Families with multiple children can use the same MySchoolBucks account. Visit FCPS’ Food and Nutrition webpage for more information.

FCPS Family Resource Center

Free Resources for Families

Did you know that caregivers can access free webinars, confidential consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities? 

Learn more about FCPS’ Family Resource Center (FRC).

Workshops for Families

The Family Resource Center is already scheduling a helpful series of webinars for the 2023-24 school year. Save the date for the following discussions in September. See the full list of workshops. Click on the title to register for each event: 

• New School Year, New Strategies: How to Plan, Persist, and Achieve Academic Success This Year, on Friday, September 8, 10-11:30 a.m.
• Meet the Author Series: The Self-Driven Child by Dr. William Stixrud, Friday, September 15, 10-11:15 a.m.
• Characteristics and Needs of Twice-Exceptional (2e) Learners, on Tuesday, September 19, 10-11:30 a.m.
• Who's the Boss? 5 Ways for Families to Help Kids with Big Emotions, Friday September 29, 10-11:30 a.m.

Be the first to learn about new workshops by signing up for the FRC newsletter.

Student Bus Passes Useful Links/Information

FCHS Bell Schedule

Schoology

SIS ParentVUE

FCPS 22-23 School Year Calendar

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.

Important Dates

• 8/28-29 - Auditions for Annie (see announcement below)
• 8/30 - Back to School Night (see announcement below)
• 9/1 & 9/4 - Holidays

Calendar Reminder: Labor Day

Friday, September 1, and Monday, September 4, are Labor Day holidays for all FCPS employees and students. The Code of Virginia requires that schools opening prior to Labor Day must be closed the Friday immediately preceding Labor Day. We hope everyone takes the long weekend to celebrate a strong start to the school year and enjoy time with family and friends. See the complete school year calendar.

Back to School Night

Falls Church High School is excited to invite you to our annual Back to School Night (BTSN) on Wednesday, August 30th, 2023 from 5:00 pm - 8:35 pm.  Parents/Guardians will have the opportunity to explore resources, follow their student’s schedule, and meet teachers for the 2023 - 2024 school year.  Please see below for a detailed schedule for the evening.

5:00 pm - Arrival & Explore Resources- Door #8 (Gym Lobby)

• 5:00 - 5:45 pm - Parent account assistance, parent resources, and the FCHS String Quartet (Auditorium Lobby)
• 5:00 pm - 5:45 pm - Optional: FLE Materials Review (Library)
• 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm - Spirit Wear and Memberships for sale (Auditorium Lobby)
• 5:45 pm - 8:35 pm - Leadership/NHS students will be available to help you find your way

6:00 pm - Meet the Teachers

Bus Transportation

Due to limited parking, we are providing buses to Falls Church High School from our feeder elementary schools and the Wadsworth Leasing Office.  Please see the bus schedule below.

2 Buses: Wadsworth Leasing Office (4133 Wadsworth Ct) 

• 4:45pm - pick up at Wadsworth Ct 
• 5:00 pm - arrive at FC Door #2

2 Buses: Westlawn ES & Graham Road ES

• 5:00pm - pick up at Westlawn ES (1 Bus)
• 5:00pm - pick up at Graham Road ES (1 Bus)
• 5:15 pm - arrive at FC Door #2

1 Bus: Camelot ES

• 5:00pm - pick up at Camelot ES
• 5:15 pm - arrive at FC Door #2

1 Bus: Mason Crest ES & Woodburn ES

• 4:30pm - pick up at Mason Crest
• 4:45pm - pick up at Woodburn
• 5:00 pm - arrive at FC Door #2

1 Bus: Pine Spring ES & Fairhill ES

• 4:45pm - pick up at Pine Spring ES
• 5:00pm - pick up at Fairhill ES
• 5:15 pm - arrive at FC Door #2

Overflow Parking

Overflow parking will be available in designated spots at St. Phillips Catholic Church (7500 St Phillips Ct, Falls Church, VA 22042) located behind the school.

Attendance Matters!

DID YOU KNOW?

• Starting in kindergarten, too many absences can cause children to fall behind in school.
• Missing 10 percent (or about 2 days per month) can make it harder to learn to read.
• Students can still fall behind if they miss just a day every few weeks.
• Being late to school may lead to poor attendance.
• Absences can affect the whole classroom if the teacher has to slow down teaching and learning to help children catch up.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

• Set a regular bed time and morning routine.
• Lay out clothes and pack backpacks the night before.
• Introduce your child to teachers and classmates before school starts to help her transition.
• Don’t let your children stay home unless they are sick. Keep in mind complaints of a stomachache or headache can be a sign of anxiety and not a reason to stay home.
• If your child/children seem anxious about going to school, talk to teachers, school counselors, or other parents for advice on how to make them feel more comfortable and excited about learning.
• Develop back-up plans for getting to school if something comes up. Call on a family member, a neighbor, or another parent.
• Try to avoid medical appointments and extended trips when school is in session.

Clinic Health Room Info for the Beginning of the Year

We are excited that our Clinic Health room staff are returning for the 23-24 school year. Please visit the Welcome Back Letter, there is lots of helpful information if you scroll down.

Fabiola Candia-Aranibar is our School Health Assistant (SHA) and Julie Smith is our Public Health Nurse. Jessica Grenfell, Director of Student Services is the Administrator that supervises the Clinic.

From the College & Career Center

College Representative Visits to FCHS begin Week of September 12- Juniors and Seniors may sign up in Naviance to meet with college representatives

Wednesday, September 13 during 4th Period Advisory/Intervention- Student’s Counselors and the FCHS College & Career Specialist will meet with students to discuss post-secondary (after high school) options which may include: four-year college, two-year college, vocational training (licensure and certification), and military. Please encourage your students to attend this important meeting and to register for more specific follow-up sessions.

Tuesday, September 19 7:00 pm FCHS Library- Senior Night- FCHS College & Career Specialist will walk parents/guardians through the college application process

Wednesday, October 11  FCPS SAT & PSAT Testing Day- All FCPS sophomores and juniors will have the opportunity to take the PSAT. All Seniors will be given the opportunity to take the SAT, but they MUST REGISTER BY SEPTEMBER 6! There is no cost associated with either test on October 11. All students are encouraged to participate.

Sunday, October 15- George Mason University College Fair- 4:00 pm– 7:00 pm Eagle Bank Arena. Students will have the opportunity to meet with representatives from over 250 colleges and universities.  

Tuesday, January 9 - College Access Fairfax FAFSA Completion @Annandale HS 6:00-8:30 pm

Saturday, January 20- College Access Fairfax FAFSA Completion @ Justice HS 10:00 am-12:00 pm (noon)

Tuesday, January 30 - College Access Fairfax FAFSA Completion @ Falls Church HS 7:00-9:00 pm

Thursday, February 1- College Access Fairfax FAFSA Completion @ Lewis HS

Terri S Markwart, College & Career Specialist

2023-24 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. In late June, the School Board approved changes to the SR&R for the 2023-24 school year. Updates include a revision of dress code expectations, bystander expectations for students witnessing harmful or unsafe behaviors, bullying, and substance abuse responses. 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 Friday, September 29.

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.

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.

SIS ParentVUE Support Your Child’s Success

Access your student’s attendance records, grades, and assignments at any time with SIS ParentVUE. Caregivers should receive an activation code when they register their child. 

Once you have activated a ParentVUE account for an FCPS student, you will keep the same account until the student graduates. Information about students in the same family can be accessed through the same ParentVUE account. Access SIS ParentVUE by using an app on your iPhone, iPad, or Android devices. 

Need help creating a SIS ParentVUE account? This video walks through the steps. Find out more about SIS ParentVUE.

Parental Permission to Use Digital Resources

Some FCPS-approved digital resources require parent/caregiver consent before they can be used by students. Find the list of resources which require consent on the Parent Consent webpage. This page also includes directions for providing permission. 

Each digital resource used in FCPS has had an instructional and technical review. Information about the educational technology tools approved for use within FCPS can be found in the online Digital Ecosystem Library.

Find more information about FCPS-approved digital resources on the Digital Resources in FCPS webpage.

Chromebook Tips

This year, high school and secondary school students are receiving a new Chromebook. These devices feature larger screens than previously issued devices and battery life that easily lasts the school day. 

Encourage your child to visit the following helpful links to:

• Set up password recovery for their FCPS account. 
• Visit the Chromebook searchable help page.
• Learn how to use the touchpad.

• View popular keyboard shortcuts for the Chromebook.
• Access Google Drive on the Chromebook when offline.  

If students prefer to use their personal laptop, make sure it meets our minimum requirements. Let your school know your student plans to bring their own device. Please note that we cannot provide tech support on personally-owned devices. 

If your student runs into any issues while using their Chromebook, please have them reach out to their school’s tech team for support.

Students may access our student Chromebook FAQs (FCPS Google login required) for more information about using their own device.

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.

School Meals

Preparing for and Paying for Meals at School

Parents/caregivers need to provide their students with money to purchase meals at school, send them with a packed lunch, or apply (and be approved) for free and reduced-price meals benefits. School breakfast for students costs $1.75. Lunch is $3.25 for elementary students and $3.50 for middle, secondary, and high school students.

Free and Reduced-Price Meals

The application for free and reduced-priced meals is now available for the 2023-24 school year. Students who were approved for free and reduced-price lunch last year are eligible for the first 30 days of school this year (or until a new application is processed). Families should re-apply as soon as possible for the 2023-24 school year, so eligible students continue to receive meals at no cost. 

Paying With MySchoolBucks

The best way to purchase meals (and keep food lines moving!) is to use MySchoolBucks. Set up your student’s MySchoolBucks account today. Our front office staff can help with any questions. 

MySchoolBucks accounts can be set up to add money to the account automatically, as needed. Families with multiple children can use the same MySchoolBucks account. Visit FCPS’ Food and Nutrition webpage for more information.

Parent Information Phone Lines Available in Eight Languages

Parents/caregivers who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese may call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS. View the list of phone numbers.

FCPS Family Resource Center

Free Resources for Families

Did you know that caregivers can access free webinars, confidential consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities? 

Learn more about FCPS’ Family Resource Center (FRC).

Workshops for Families

The Family Resource Center is already scheduling a helpful series of webinars for the 2023-24 school year. Save the date for the following discussions in September. See the full list of workshops. Click on the title to register for each event: 

• New School Year, New Strategies: How to Plan, Persist, and Achieve Academic Success This Year, on Friday, September 8, 10-11:30 a.m.
• Meet the Author Series: The Self-Driven Child by Dr. William Stixrud, Friday, September 15, 10-11:15 a.m.
• Characteristics and Needs of Twice-Exceptional (2e) Learners, on Tuesday, September 19, 10-11:30 a.m.
• Who's the Boss? 5 Ways for Families to Help Kids with Big Emotions, Friday September 29, 10-11:30 a.m.

Be the first to learn about new workshops by signing up for the FRC newsletter.

Are Your Child’s Immunizations and Records Up to Date?

Immunizations are required for public school entry and help keep students protected from serious diseases. Many children missed their well check-ups and their recommended childhood vaccinations during recent years because of disruptions from COVID-19. It is critical to catch up to keep children healthy and ready for school. 

While COVID-19 vaccinations are not required, many other immunizations are. Check with your students’ healthcare providers now to make sure they are up to date on their immunizations.

Visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of clinics or contact your family’s healthcare provider. Appointments are required for most clinics.  

Remember to request documentation of your child’s immunizations to provide to their school. Get more information on immunization requirements and the necessary documentation to share with your child’s school.

From FCHS Spotlight Theatre

FCHS SPOTLIGHT THEATRE PRESENTS

Auditions for ANNIE the musical!

ALL High School students in grades 9-12 are invited to audition for ANNIE this fall!  Auditions are August 28 and 29 by appointment.  Come to room 181 to sing 16-32 measures of a song in the STYLE of ANNIE. 

Email [email protected] for suggestions and questions. 

Sign up here:  https://forms.gle/s3iS4ro8sAuS9M219

Student Bus Passes Useful Links/Information

FCHS Bell Schedule

Schoology

SIS ParentVUE

FCPS 22-23 School Year Calendar

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.

Important Dates

• 8/17 - FCHS Open House (see announcement below)
• 8/21 - First Day of School
• 8/28-29 - Auditions for Annie (see announcement below)
• 8/30 - Back to School Night

Welcome to the 23-24 School Year!

Click here to view Dr. Nowak's welcome back letter.

Bell Schedule

School begins at 8:10 and dismisses at 2:55. Please see the FCHS Bell Schedule.

Student Schedules

Detailed schedules (classes, periods, teachers, and rooms) will be available to view in SIS ParentVUE and StudentVUE on August 17th at 6am.

Schedule changes are only permitted for errors, not preference changes. Course requests can be seen now in SIS ParentVUE.

School Year Calendar

Be sure to bookmark the FCPS school year calendar to keep track of school holidays, breaks, and observances.

• Days marked with blue Hs are student holidays. 
• Days marked with orange Os are religious and cultural observance days (or evenings if only half marked). 
• Days marked in pink are holidays for students, but working days for teachers and staff.

Chromebooks for High School Students

FCPS is changing its high school and secondary student devices to Chromebooks. This device will continue to enable students to use web-based tools like Schoology, Google, and online textbooks. Students will receive a device within the first weeks of school.

If you would prefer that your student bring their own device (BYOD), they need to make sure it meets FCPS’ minimum requirements. Students who use their own device will not receive an FCPS device. Our school tech team will make sure that students have access to an FCPS device for important tests, such as SOLs. FCPS strives to be financially and environmentally responsible. Students who do not use their FCPS device regularly will be asked to return it.

School Meals

Preparing for and Paying for Meals at School

Parents/caregivers need to provide their students with money to purchase meals at school, send them with a packed lunch, or apply (and be approved) for free and reduced-price meals benefits. School breakfast for students costs $1.75. Lunch is $3.25 for elementary students and $3.50 for middle, secondary, and high school students.

Free and Reduced-Price Meals

The application for free and reduced-priced meals is now available for the 2023-24 school year. Students who were approved for free and reduced-price lunch last year are eligible for the first 30 days of school this year (or until a new application is processed). Families should re-apply as soon as possible for the 2023-24 school year, so eligible students continue to receive meals at no cost. 

Paying With MySchoolBucks

The best way to purchase meals (and keep food lines moving!) is to use MySchoolBucks. Set up your student’s MySchoolBucks account today. Our front office staff can help with any questions. 

MySchoolBucks accounts can be set up to add money to the account automatically, as needed. Families with multiple children can use the same MySchoolBucks account. Visit FCPS’ Food and Nutrition webpage for more information.

FCPS Family Resource Center

Free Resources for Families

Did you know that caregivers can access free webinars, confidential consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities? 

Learn more about FCPS’ Family Resource Center (FRC).

Workshops for Families

The Family Resource Center is already scheduling a helpful series of webinars for the 2023-24 school year. Save the date for the following discussions in September. See the full list of workshops. Click on the title to register for each event: 

• New School Year, New Strategies: How to Plan, Persist, and Achieve Academic Success This Year, on Friday, September 8, 10-11:30 a.m.
• Meet the Author Series: The Self-Driven Child by Dr. William Stixrud, Friday, September 15, 10-11:15 a.m.
• Characteristics and Needs of Twice-Exceptional (2e) Learners, on Tuesday, September 19, 10-11:30 a.m.
• Who's the Boss? 5 Ways for Families to Help Kids with Big Emotions, Friday September 29, 10-11:30 a.m.

Be the first to learn about new workshops by signing up for the FRC newsletter.

Are Your Child’s Immunizations and Records Up to Date?

Immunizations are required for public school entry and help keep students protected from serious diseases. Many children missed their well check-ups and their recommended childhood vaccinations during recent years because of disruptions from COVID-19. It is critical to catch up to keep children healthy and ready for school. 

While COVID-19 vaccinations are not required, many other immunizations are. Check with your students’ healthcare providers now to make sure they are up to date on their immunizations.

Visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of clinics or contact your family’s healthcare provider. Appointments are required for most clinics.  

Remember to request documentation of your child’s immunizations to provide to their school. Get more information on immunization requirements and the necessary documentation to share with your child’s school.

SIS ParentVUE Support Your Child’s Success

Access your student’s attendance records, grades, and assignments at any time with SIS ParentVUE. Caregivers should receive an activation code when they register their child. 

Once you have activated a ParentVUE account for an FCPS student, you will keep the same account until the student graduates. Information about students in the same family can be accessed through the same ParentVUE account. Access SIS ParentVUE by using an app on your iPhone, iPad, or Android devices. 

Need help creating a SIS ParentVUE account? This video walks through the steps. Find out more about SIS ParentVUE.

From FCHS Spotlight Theatre

FCHS SPOTLIGHT THEATRE PRESENTS

Auditions for ANNIE the musical!

ALL High School students in grades 9-12 are invited to audition for ANNIE this fall!  Auditions are August 28 and 29 by appointment.  Come to room 181 to sing 16-32 measures of a song in the STYLE of ANNIE. 

Email [email protected] for suggestions and questions. 

Sign up here:  https://forms.gle/s3iS4ro8sAuS9M219

Student Bus Passes Useful Links/Information

FCHS Bell Schedule

Schoology

SIS ParentVUE

FCPS 22-23 School Year Calendar

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.

Important Dates

• 8/7-8/11 - Senior Portraits (see announcement below)
• 8/14 - Immunization Clinic (2:00-7:00 pm, Luther Jackson MS Gym)
• 8/17 - FCHS Open House (see announcement below)
• 8/21 - First Day of School
• 8/28-29 - Auditions for Annie (see announcement below)
• 8/30 - Back to School Night

Bell Schedule

School begins at 8:10 and dismisses at 2:55. Please see the FCHS Bell Schedule.

Student Schedules

Detailed schedules (classes, periods, teachers, and rooms) will be available to view in SIS ParentVUE and StudentVUE on August 17th at 6am.

Schedule changes are only permitted for errors, not preference changes. Course requests can be seen now in SIS ParentVUE.

Are Your Child’s Immunizations and Records Up to Date?

Immunizations are required for public school entry and help keep students protected from serious diseases. Many children missed their well check-ups and their recommended childhood vaccinations during recent years because of disruptions from COVID-19. It is critical to catch up to keep children healthy and ready for school. 

While COVID-19 vaccinations are not required, many other immunizations are. Check with your students’ healthcare providers now to make sure they are up to date on their immunizations.

Visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of clinics or contact your family’s healthcare provider. Appointments are required for most clinics.  

Remember to request documentation of your child’s immunizations to provide to their school. Get more information on immunization requirements and the necessary documentation to share with your child’s school.

SIS ParentVUE Support Your Child’s Success

Access your student’s attendance records, grades, and assignments at any time with SIS ParentVUE. Caregivers should receive an activation code when they register their child. 

Once you have activated a ParentVUE account for an FCPS student, you will keep the same account until the student graduates. Information about students in the same family can be accessed through the same ParentVUE account. Access SIS ParentVUE by using an app on your iPhone, iPad, or Android devices. 

Need help creating a SIS ParentVUE account? This video walks through the steps. Find out more about SIS ParentVUE.

Digital PSAT Replaces Paper in 2023-24

This October, the PSAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT) will be administered in Fairfax County in a digital format. Some testing accommodations are administered differently for digital tests than for paper/pencil tests. See information about accommodations for students with disabilities.

PSAT/NMSQT and SAT School Day

The district will offer access to the PSAT/NMSQT and SAT School Day for rising 10th through 12th grade students at no cost to families. Exams will be held at each high school on October 11. 

Accommodations for Students with Disabilities and English Learners

Because these exams are operated by the College Board, students do not automatically receive testing accommodations or supports. If you have a student with disabilities entering 10th, 11th, or 12th grade; or have an English Learner (EL) student entering 12th grade, please review the accommodations request process and/or EL support request process and return forms to the high school by August 8.

Find out more about SAT Assessments and PSAT Assessments.

From FCHS Spotlight Theatre

FCHS SPOTLIGHT THEATRE PRESENTS

Auditions for ANNIE the musical!

ALL High School students in grades 9-12 are invited to audition for ANNIE this fall!  Auditions are August 28 and 29 by appointment.  Come to room 181 to sing 16-32 measures of a song in the STYLE of ANNIE. 

Email [email protected] for suggestions and questions. 

Sign up here:  https://forms.gle/s3iS4ro8sAuS9M219

Free and Reduced-Price Meal Applications Available

According to the Centers for Disease Control, eating breakfast at school is associated with better attendance rates, fewer missed school days, and better test scores. Students who qualify for free and reduced-price meals receive breakfast and lunch at school at no cost. 

 

Families in FCPS that are earning less than 185% of the poverty level can receive meals for their students at no cost. Families should complete the application before the start of each school year. Approved applications may also qualify students for additional benefits. 

Apply on the Free and Reduced-Price Meals webpage.

Senior Portraits

Prestige Portraits will be at Falls Church High School the week of August 7th through August 11th for Senior Portrait photography.  Prestige Portraits has mailed an appointment card to your home address, so you should be receiving one soon if you haven’t already.  (See sample of the appointment card pasted below this message.)

The appointment card will direct you to log onto prestigeportraits.com to schedule your appointment using the unique ID number located on the appointment card to select a date/time convenient to you.  (NOTE:  If you misplace the appointment card, you may still schedule your appointment by entering Virginia and Falls Church where it asks for State and City, hitting “Go,” selecting Falls Church High School on the next page, and entering your last and first name as they appear in SIS StudentVUE.)

If you have any questions or need help scheduling an appointment, please call Prestige Scheduling at 1-(800) 736-4753.  Chat help is also available online at schedule.prestigeportraits.com.  If you are unable to make one of the appointments in August, additional makeup dates will be available in October.  More information regarding the makeup dates will be shared at a later date.

Go Jags!

INOVA Free School Physicals and Immunizations

Inova Cares Clinic for Children (ICCC) and Inova Partnership for Healthier Communities (PHC) are now scheduling appointments in June, July, and August to provide children ages 5 and up with FREE school physicals and immunizations to begin the 2023-24 School Year. This will take place at the Inova Cares Clinic for Children in Herndon, Manassas, and Falls Church.

PHC will be on site to screen and enroll qualifying families in Medicaid/FAMIS and connect them to an appropriate and affordable source of quality healthcare providers. Please share the flyers below.

Flyer for Insured and Inova Patients

Flyer for Medicaid or Uninsured Patients

Student Bus Passes Useful Links/Information

FCHS Bell Schedule

Schoology

SIS ParentVUE

FCPS 22-23 School Year Calendar

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.

Important Dates

• 7/31 - Fall Sports Begin (Falls Church High School Athletics website)
• 8/7-8/11 - Senior Portraits (see announcement below)
• 8/14 - Immunization Clinic (2:00-7:00 pm, Luther Jackson MS Gym)
• 8/17 - FCHS Open House (see announcement below)
• 8/21 - First Day of School
• 8/30 - Back to School Night

Bell Schedule

School begins at 8:10 and dismisses at 2:55. Please see the FCHS Bell Schedule.

New Assistant Principal @ FCHS

Introducing FCHS' new assistant principal, Ms. Mary Bermingham!

Ms. Bermingham has been serving as the Special Education Department Chair here at Falls Church for the past two years. Prior to that role, she was the Head Learning Specialist for West Virginia University Football. She also previously taught Science at Key Middle School, and History at Justice High School.

Ms. Bermingham has proven to be a strong leader and will continue to positively impact our school and community in her new role.  She will be supervising Special Education (Cat A) and Fine & Performing Arts and will work with students with last names A - De.

Acting Assistant Principal @ FCHS

Welcome to Acting Assistant Principal, Ms. Bianca Aiello!  Ms. Aiello will be filling in for Ms. Ritchey who is on maternity leave.  Ms. Aiello currently serves as the Director of Student Services at Poe Middle School and will be at FCHS through Thanksgiving Break.

Ms. Aiello will be supervising Math and World Languages and will work with students with last names Di - Lop.

Student Schedules

Detailed schedules (classes, periods, teachers, and rooms) will be available to view in SIS ParentVUE and StudentVUE on August 17th at 6am.

Schedule changes are only permitted for errors, not preference changes. Course requests can be seen now in SIS ParentVUE.

Senior Portraits

Prestige Portraits will be at Falls Church High School the week of August 7th through August 11th for Senior Portrait photography.  Prestige Portraits has mailed an appointment card to your home address, so you should be receiving one soon if you haven’t already.  (See sample of the appointment card pasted below this message.)

The appointment card will direct you to log onto prestigeportraits.com to schedule your appointment using the unique ID number located on the appointment card to select a date/time convenient to you.  (NOTE:  If you misplace the appointment card, you may still schedule your appointment by entering Virginia and Falls Church where it asks for State and City, hitting “Go,” selecting Falls Church High School on the next page, and entering your last and first name as they appear in SIS StudentVUE.)

If you have any questions or need help scheduling an appointment, please call Prestige Scheduling at 1-(800) 736-4753.  Chat help is also available online at schedule.prestigeportraits.com.  If you are unable to make one of the appointments in August, additional makeup dates will be available in October.  More information regarding the makeup dates will be shared at a later date.

Go Jags!

Free and Reduced-Price Meal Applications

Families must submit an application and be approved to be eligible for free and reduced-price meals for the 2023-24 school year.

Interested families are encouraged to submit the Free and Reduced-Price Meal application ten days prior to the first day of the school year. The online application can be found HERE.

Students approved for Free and Reduced-Price Meals may qualify for additional benefits such as waived or reduced fees for instruments, uniforms, field trips, FCPS class fees, and Parktakes classes. Schools also benefit from funding opportunities based on Free and Reduced Price Meal application numbers.

Take Tutor.com on the Road!

Tutor.com continues to be available to all students, at no cost, to continue summer learning. Visit the Summer Access Tutor.com webpage for more information on how to access the online service throughout the summer. 

INOVA Free School Physicals and Immunizations

Inova Cares Clinic for Children (ICCC) and Inova Partnership for Healthier Communities (PHC) are now scheduling appointments in June, July, and August to provide children ages 5 and up with FREE school physicals and immunizations to begin the 2023-24 School Year. This will take place at the Inova Cares Clinic for Children in Herndon, Manassas, and Falls Church.

PHC will be on site to screen and enroll qualifying families in Medicaid/FAMIS and connect them to an appropriate and affordable source of quality healthcare providers. Please share the flyers below.

Flyer for Insured and Inova Patients

Flyer for Medicaid or Uninsured Patients

Student Bus Passes Useful Links/Information

FCHS Bell Schedule

Schoology

SIS ParentVUE

FCPS 22-23 School Year Calendar

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.

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.

Important Dates

• 6/12 - Underclassmen Exams/Half Days Begin (see announcement below)
• 6/15 - Underclassmen Laptop Collection (6th Period)
• 6/16 - Last Day of School (see announcement below)

End-of-Year Exams & Events Calendar

Click here to view the End-of-Year Exams/Events calendar.

Schedule for Last Week of School

This is a reminder that half days and exams for underclassmen begin tomorrow, Monday, June 12.  Breakfast will be available but lunch will not be served.  You will find a schedule for the week below.

Monday, June 12

5th Period Exam    8:10 - 9:50

7th Period Exam    10:00 - 11:35

Buses Depart        11:40

Tuesday, June 13

4th Period              8:10 - 9:50

8th Period Exam    10:00 - 11:35

Buses Depart        11:40

Wednesday, June 14

1st Period Exam    8:10 - 9:50

3rd Period Exam    10:00 - 11:35

Buses Depart        11:40

Thursday, June 15

2nd Period Exam    8:10 - 9:50

6th Period Exam    10:00 - 11:35

Buses Depart        11:40

Friday, June 16

The day starts at 8:10 and ends at 10:10.  The school will not be taking attendance during the two hours we are open.  The purpose of the day is for students to check their final grades with teachers if they so desire.  With this objective in mind, all students who are present will be in the main gym for the duration of the two hours.  Teachers will come to the gym to discuss grades with students who wish to meet.  If we do not see your child on June 16, please have a safe and enjoyable summer.

Buses Depart        10:20

Last Day of School Plan for Students

Friday, June 16 is the last day of school for students.  The day starts at 8:10 and ends at 10:10.  The school will not be taking attendance during the two hours we are open.  The purpose of the day is for students to check their final grades with teachers if they so desire.  With this objective in mind, all students who are present will be in the main gym for the duration of the two hours.  Teachers will come to the gym to discuss grades with students who wish to meet.

Thank you for your cooperation in this matter and if we do not see your child on June 16, please have a safe and enjoyable summer.

Medication Pick-up before June 16th

The school health room is reminding parents and guardians that all medication stored in the health room must be picked up no later than the student dismissal time on the last day of school. Medication left in the health room after that time will be destroyed. It is school policy that medications must be picked up by the parent or guardian.

Medication authorization forms for next school year may be obtained from the school or online at https://www.fcps.edu/resources/student-safety-and-wellness/school-health-services. A medication authorization form is required for any medication, prescription or over-the-counter, to be kept at school.

If you have any questions, please contact your school health room aide, Fabiola Candia, or your school public health nurse, Julie Smith, at 703-207-4010. 

Mental Wellness Summer Supports

The FCPS Office of Intervention and Prevention Services will offer virtual Mental Wellness Consultations from June 26 to August 4. Any FCPS parent or secondary student can schedule a 45-minute consultation with a school psychologist or school social worker by phone or videoconference. Consultations will be offered in two ways:

• Directly to parents of students in any grade level. This consultation provides an opportunity for parents to receive guidance on how to support their child’s social, emotional, and academic success. Information about community resources will also be provided.
• Directly to students in middle or high school. This consultation provides an opportunity for middle and high school students to receive guidance and support for concerns related to anxiety, mood, behavior, peer or family interactions, or school transitions and changes. Strategies and tools can also be provided to address academic challenges such as organization and time management.

All parents and secondary students are encouraged to take advantage of this service. Consultations can be requested online or by calling 703-503-2520 and leaving a message.

Hazel Health: Virtual Therapy Services for High School Students

Teletherapy services will continue to be available for all FCPS high school students at no cost this summer. Sessions can be scheduled Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Hazel’s highly-qualified therapists specialize in speaking “teen.” 

Caregivers must first opt in their students to access Hazel Health. Then, a caregiver or school counselor, social worker, or psychologist can refer the student to Hazel for services. Learn more on the FCPS teletherapy webpage.

Summer Fun for All! Summer Camps and Adapted Recreation 

The Family Resource Center has recently published a list with dozens of summer camps including general camps, camps for students with a variety of needs, and camps for children of military personnel. They’ve also prepared a list of adapted resources, sorted by activity, that are inclusive for children and adults of various physical abilities. 

The Family Resource Center (FRC) provides resources and support for all families and school staff. They offer a free library, confidential consultations, and informational webinars. For more information, call 703-204-3941, email [email protected] or visit their website.

Take Tutor.com on the Road!

Tutor.com continues to be available to all students, at no cost, to continue summer learning. Visit the Summer Access Tutor.com webpage for more information on how to access the online service throughout the summer. 

Join FCPS’ Alumni Network!

Fairfax County Public Schools is inviting all graduates to join the school division’s new alumni network. Whether you are in the Class of 2023, the Class of 1972, or even earlier, your participation is crucial, as FCPS lays the groundwork for an inclusive network that will serve as a valuable resource for all alumni. You are an essential part of the effort to build a strong and interconnected community!

Please fill out this form with your contact details to help FCPS create a directory of our graduates, facilitating connections and providing opportunities for collaboration and engagement with FCPS.

INOVA Free School Physicals and Immunizations

Inova Cares Clinic for Children (ICCC) and Inova Partnership for Healthier Communities (PHC) are now scheduling appointments in June, July, and August to provide children ages 5 and up with FREE school physicals and immunizations to begin the 2023-24 School Year. This will take place at the Inova Cares Clinic for Children in Herndon, Manassas, and Falls Church.

PHC will be on site to screen and enroll qualifying families in Medicaid/FAMIS and connect them to an appropriate and affordable source of quality healthcare providers. Please share the flyers below.

Flyer for Insured and Inova Patients

Flyer for Medicaid or Uninsured Patients

CyberPatriot Summer Cyber Camp

Chantilly Academy will host an AFA CyberCamp Monday, June 26, to Friday, June 30, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day. This camp is recommended for rising fifth through eighth graders of all skill levels interested in learning more about the importance of cybersecurity and gaining skill to protect themselves and others from cyber threats. Discounts are available for students eligible for free and reduced-price meals. Visit the camp website to learn more about registration, curriculum, and schedule. 

Other Summer Camp Opportunities

Registration is still available for Institute for the Arts (IFTA) and Elementary-IFTA arts camps, Credit Recovery Academy, and Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology’s Middle School Technology Institute (MSTI).

Student Bus Passes Useful Links/Information

FCHS Bell Schedule

Schoology

SIS ParentVUE

FCPS 22-23 School Year Calendar

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
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