FCPS

For the latest news, scores, and schedules please visit our SCHS Athletics & Activities website:  https://stallionnation.org

 

Follow us on Social Media:

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For the latest news, scores, and schedules please visit our SCHS Athletics & Activities website:  https://stallionnation.org

About our sponsor:
Exterior Medics, an award-winning contractor, specializes in residential, multifamily, and commercial exterior home improvements across Northern Virginia, Southern Maryland, and the Washington, DC metro area. Renowned for their exceptional customer service and craftsmanship, they offer a wide range of exterior solutions, including roofing, gutters, doors, windows, and siding. Their expertise also extends to masonry services such as chimney and
crack repairs, brick and stone replacement, and full wall, column, and porch reconstruction. To learn more about their free in-home consultations or to start your next project, visit www.exteriormedics.com/

In an effort to provide an optimal game day experience for our fans and guests, below is information on tickets, entry, and general guidelines. 

Tickets

• Adult tickets are $7; student tickets are $5. Children ages 5 and under as well as senior citizens 60+ will be admitted free. *Invitationals & Tournaments could charge up $10 for adults.
• District & Regional tickets: adult tickets $7; student tickets $5.
• No re-entry.
• Purchase your tickets online to avoid the line @ South County HS E-Tix

Seating and Entry

• Gates will open 30 minutes before the start of the contest (60 minutes for Varsity Football).
• Middle School students will not be permitted entry without an adult. 
• Fans can enter through the main gate ONLY. 
• Parents are reminded that the stadium is an inviting place for children to play.  However, it can be very dangerous, so, please always supervise children.

Backpacks, Bags & Other Outside Items

• Purses, diaper bags, and reasonably sized bags are permitted inside the stadium with adults. However, all bags may be subject to search and inspection.
• Students are not permitted to bring bags or backpacks into the stadium.

Student Pick-Up

• Students MUST be picked up within 15 minutes of the end of the event.   

Beverage Policy

• No outside food or drinks are permitted inside the stadium.

Smoking & Tobacco Use

• Smoking and the use of all tobacco products on any Fairfax County Public School campus is prohibited. This prohibition applies to all individuals while on any FCPS campus, including faculty, staff, students, administrators, contractors, and visitors. Cigarettes, e-cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco, snuff, pipes, and chewing tobacco are not permitted.

  Click Here to Purchase Your Stallion Pass! To be eligible to tryout for High School Sports you must complete the following:

 

• Online Registration (click here)

The athlete AND one parent/guardian must review the online Concussion Education presentation, which is part of the online registration process mentioned above. This must be completed once per year.

• Current VHSL Physical Form (click here)

The VHSL form must say “Revised January 2021” in the top right corner of pages 1-4. No other versions of this document will be accepted. Please be sure that this form is completed in it’s entirety. Incomplete forms will be returned to families. Page 3 must be signed and dated (After May 1, 2024) by a physician.

All freshmen are academically eligible for sports in the fall and winter. High School students must pass no less than five credits the previous semester to remain eligible each season.

All required forms and contact information for coaches are available on the Athletics and Activities website https://stallionnation.org/.

 

First Day of Tryouts

Fall Sports – August 5, 2024 Winter Sports – Nov 11th. 2024 Spring Sports – Feb 24, 2025 Cheerleading Boys/Girls Basketball Baseball Cross Country Gymnastics Boys/Girls Crew Dance (Tryouts in June) Boys/Girls Indoor Track Boys/Girls Lacrosse Field Hockey Boys/Girls Swim & Dive Boys/Girls Soccer Football Wrestling Softball Golf (Starts August 1) Sideline Cheer Boys/Girls Outdoor Track Boys/Girls Volleyball   Boys/Girls Tennis

 

If you have a child, grand-child, niece or nephew participating in one or more of our SCHS athletic programs this year, please consider becoming a member of the Athletic Boosters and helping run our non-profit organization with fellow parent-volunteers. 

 

Click Here to Join the South County Athletic Booster Club!

 

Follow us on Social Media:

Instagram

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Facebook

 

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THANKSGIVING BREAK ATTENDANCE

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Due to our high volume of absences during the holiday season, we would like to encourage our families to submit any absence, early dismissal, and/or late arrival no later than Thursday Nov 21, 2024 by 2:00pm. 

Requests submitted after Friday Nov 22, 2024 may delay early dismissal.

We highly encourage our families to submit these requests as soon as possible.

You may report attendance by:

1. Emailing: [email protected]
2. Full Day Absence through ParentVue
3. Calling our attendance line: 703-446-1625

• • Option 1- All Day Absence
  • Option 2- Late Arrival
  • Option 3- Early Release

Note: Messages are checked constantly throughout the day. If you report your students absence ON that Monday or Tuesday before Thanksgiving, please know that our phone lines/emails will be extremely backed up and you may get the automatic robo call since we will not be able to get everything put in before 9am when that call goes out.  However, be assured, we will get them put in the system as fast as we possibly can.  Please DO NOT call/email again if you know you have already done so.

Important Upcoming Dates

• 11/18-11/22- American Education Week
• 11/20/24-6:00pm-8:00pm Bonfire & Game Night 
• 11/21/24- National Family Engagement Day
• 11/22/24- Deadline to submit Outstanding Employee Recognition
• 11/27-11/29- Thanksgiving Break
• 12/07/24- 9am-2pm Auditorium- Silent Auction Fundraiser
• 12/07/24- 9am-3pm- Annual Lorton Holiday Extravaganza 
• 01/09/25- 7:00pm- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
• 02/11/25- 7:00pm- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
• 04/07/25 7:00pm- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
• 06/04/25- 7:00pm- Class of 2025 Graduation (Eagle Bank)

Message from Dr. Khoshaba

Dear Stallion Families,

As the crisp air of November settles in, there's no better time to celebrate the spirit of our Stallion community. This month is packed with opportunities for our students to shine, whether they're excelling in academics, showcasing their talents in the arts, or charging forward on the athletic fields. November reminds us of the power of perseverance and positivity, and we are committed to making every moment matter for our Stallions. Together, let’s continue fostering a culture where our students feel supported, valued, and inspired to succeed.

Now, on to this past week’s reflections …

Building Bonds

Taking Center Stage

Congratulations to our incredible theater students for their outstanding performance of The 39 Steps! I had the pleasure of attending Friday night’s show, and our Stallions’ hard work, creativity, and dedication brought this thrilling and comedic production to life. From the seamless scene changes to the brilliant character portrayals, it was clear that countless hours of preparation went into every detail. We are so proud of the way you showcased your talent and teamwork on stage. Thank you for reminding us of the magic of theater and for making South County High shine!

 

I had the pleasure of another inspiring Walk and Talk session, this time with students Kaden and Kaleb. As we strolled through the halls, we were delighted to be joined by Nicholas, who eagerly added his voice to our conversation about what makes South County High such a special place. It was heartening to hear how much our teachers impact our students’ experiences. Kaleb expressed his appreciation for Ms. Cano, recognizing her for always being there when he needed support, while Kaden highlighted Mr. Weaver as a trusted mentor who offers invaluable advice. Moments like these truly reflect the strong sense of connection and community that make SoCo shine!

High Quality Instruction

In education, differentiation means tailoring instruction to meet the diverse needs of all learners—providing the right supports, challenges, and opportunities so every student can succeed.

Michelle Morrison, our Adaptive PE teacher, takes differentiation to a whole new level—or should we say, she raises the bar! With unparalleled individual attention, she designs activities that celebrate each student’s abilities, ensuring every child feels seen, supported, and successful. Her creativity, patience, and passion transform her PE class into an inclusive space where students shine, proving that no hurdle is too high when you’re committed to making a difference.

Let’s give Ms. Morrison a big cheer for leading the way in Adaptive PE!

School Culture:

Ignite the Night: Fun, Friends, and a Fantastic Cause!

Get ready for a night of warmth, fun, and giving back! The South County DECA team invites you to our Bonfire & Game Night on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, from 6–8 PM in the staff parking lot.

Enjoy the cozy glow of the bonfire, sip on warm drinks, and challenge your friends to games like Cornhole, Giant Jenga, and more! 100% of the profits will go to the Emma Jordan Kidz Fighting Cancer Foundation, supporting an incredible cause. Bring cash for concessions and come prepared to make unforgettable memories. Let’s light up the night for a great cause—we’ll see you there!

 

Partners in Progress: The Parent Advisory Roundtable

Thank you to all the parents who attended our recent Parent Advisory Council (PAC) meeting. I truly appreciated the thoughtful discussions about the new policies for FCPS and SCHS this year, as well as the valuable insights you shared. One of the main reasons I facilitate these meetings is to hear directly from stakeholders about how our students and staff are experiencing the spirit of being a Stallion. Your perspectives are incredibly meaningful and help shape our school community. Thank you again to everyone who joined us that evening!

Student Spotlight: Leading the Charge!

Speaking of Advisory Councils, please mark your calendars for December 4 from 10:15 to 11:15am and invite your student to attend the Principal’s STUDENT Advisory Council meeting. We plan to follow-up on discussions that I had with the parents on the topics of our new cell phone and grading policies. Students need to sign up ahead of time so we know how large of a group to accommodate. Priority is given to the first 50 students who sign up. The graphics below are posted in the green boxes throughout our school, as well as in the Main Office.

Staff Spotlight:

Meet Jeanette Dellavedova, a dedicated Special Education teacher who brings both passion and patience to the classroom every day. Jeanette earned her undergraduate degree in Communication Studies from VA Tech and her graduate degree in Teaching Language Arts from Christopher Newport University. Outside of school, Jeanette enjoys spending time outdoors, cooking up delicious meals with her family, and traveling on new adventures. Jeanette’s love for teaching stems from her desire to help students realize their full potential, particularly those who have struggled and are on the brink of discovering their own strength. It’s in these moments of triumph that she truly feels the power of her work. As a Special Education teacher, Jeanette’s commitment to student success is unwavering—her dedication is as strong as her enthusiasm for helping each child find their way. She’s truly a champion for change in the lives of her students! We appreciate having such a gifted educator at SoCo!

Club Corner:

Our Key Club is an international service organization that focuses on giving back to the community. Core values of the organization include “caring, character building, inclusivity, and leadership.” It is a student led organization that meets once a month (usually the third Wednesday) after school in the cafeteria. Every month we host donation drives for various organizations such as LCAC, Bethany House, and UNICEF and complete a service project at our meeting. Service projects include river clean-ups, making dog toys for animal shelters, building Thanksgiving baskets for LCAC, and making sandwiches for the homeless. We appreciate their sponsor, Mrs. Sally Perry, for always being such an involved leader of this organization. If you have any questions, you can reach her at [email protected].

Spotlight: Days of Joy

The work we do is challenging, but incredibly rewarding. I’d like to take a moment to publicly acknowledge a group of individuals who often don’t receive the recognition they deserve—my outstanding admin team! Special thanks to Connie Gibson, Lisa Beskenis, Bryan Hazard, Jeremiah Caven, Sam Tolan, Marvin Wooten, Marci Garrison, Allison Omohundro, Hassan Mims, and Ben Gildea for consistently bringing positive energy, fresh ideas, and a collaborative spirit as we work together to create the best possible school environment for both our students and staff. This past week, we had productive discussions about the new Accreditation system (that will soon be implemented across all Virginia schools), a new tool to help guide students in selecting future classes, and valuable feedback from our recent PAC meeting. Your contributions make all the difference, and for that, I’m truly grateful!

5 Things You Need to Know about Next Week:

I referenced a discussion with my admin team about the new VA accountability system. Here's a Virginia Department of Education released explanation for parents so you can be educated about the way all VA schools will be graded by state standards this school year: https://www.doe.virginia.gov/state-board-data-funding/accreditation-accountability/school-performance-and-support-framework/supporting-virginia-learners/family-supports.

Boundary Review Community Meetings

Community meetings regarding FCPS’ comprehensive boundary review will take place in each of the division's six regions. You are encouraged to attend the meeting in our region, which you can register for by clicking on the date below. Language interpretation will be available.

Tuesday, December 3, 6:30-8 p.m., at Lake Braddock Secondary School Cafeteria.

If you are unable to attend on this date, view the full list of meetings on the Comprehensive School Boundary Review webpage. 

As we continue moving forward, let’s remember that we stand strong together, especially during challenging times. By learning from and listening to one another, we can grow stronger as a community. Our collective efforts will ensure that we remain the best school environment for our students, where every individual is supported and empowered to succeed. Let’s keep building, growing, and thriving—together.

 

Kambar

#StandStrong

We were hoping that you could nominate a deserving member of the stallion family who is worthy of praise and recognition through FCPS’s annual Outstanding Employees Recognition Program.  We have so many deserving candidates, and I hope you will let us know your thoughts.

Nominations are now open for the Outstanding Employee Awards! To submit a nomination for a South County High School Outstanding Employee in one of the categories below, please complete the nomination through the google forms that are linked to the descriptions. You may nominate multiple employees, but only one 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.

Please submit your nominations by 11/22/2024

Outstanding Principal (Click here to see the form)
Eligibility: Has at least three years of experience as the building principal

Outstanding Teacher  (Click here to see the form)

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

Outstanding New Teacher (Click here to see the form)

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

Outstanding Leader  (Click here to see the form)

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 and Associate Principals, Director of Student Activities, Director of Student Services

Outstanding Professional Employee (Click here to see the form)

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, Career Center Specialist, Instructional Coach, Psychologist, Social Worker, School Counselor, Safety and Security Specialist, Resource Teachers, SOSAs and MTSS coordinators that serve in an administrative role in a school.

Outstanding Operational Employee (Click here to see the form)

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 Friday, November 22, 2024

If you have any questions, please contact Bryan Hazard at [email protected]

Happy Nominating!

Thank you!

The Outstanding Employee Awards committee

As we gear up for the Annual Holiday Extravaganza on Dec 7, don’t forget we host a Silent Auction during this event.   If you own a business (or even if you do not!), we’d love for you to consider an in-kind donation of a basket or service to be auctioned.  All donations are tax deductible, and proceeds go directly back to the students at South County.  It’s a great way to get your business seen and heard by the Northern Virginia Community!

 If you’d like to offer a donation or want more information, reach out to Melanie Cummings at [email protected].  

 All donations need to be received by November 29.  We can arrange to pick up any donations, or they can also be mailed to the school at:

 SCHS Band Boosters

8501 Silverbrook Rd

Lorton, VA 22079

 

The South County Cross Country team is excited to announce our shoe drive fundraiser! We're collecting gently used shoes to support micro-businesses in developing countries and raise funds for our team.

Every pair of shoes makes a difference! Our goal is to collect 2,500 pairs. If each student donates just one pair, we can easily surpass our goal.

Please join us in making a positive impact on our community and the world!

Thank you for your support!

South County Cross Country Team

Parents of Current 10th graders,

South County will be hosting 4 sessions of PSTD - Partners for Safe Teen Driving this school year.  If your student is currently enrolled in HPE 10 it is mandatory that they attend ONE of the sessions with a parent/guardian.  The session dates are as follows: Jan 9, 2025, Feb. 11, 2025 and April 7, 2025. The presentations are held in the auditorium and begin promptly at 7:00 p.m.  Doors open at 6:45 and lock at 7:00 p.m. – no late arrivals permitted.  

Presentations last approximately 90 minutes.

Any questions please reach out to Maureen Saale- [email protected]

AWARENESS National Career Development Month

By enrolling in a Career and Technical Education (CTE) course or program, students learn the technical applications of many occupations while preparing for higher education or entry-level employment. A core program of CTE courses is offered in every middle and high school. Based on the needs of the populations served, each school determines optional courses to be offered. Learn more about Academies and Specialized Programs.

Native American Heritage Month

Native American Heritage Month is a time to celebrate rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories and to acknowledge the important contributions of Native Americans. It is also a time to raise a general awareness about the unique challenges they have faced both historically and in the present, and the ways in which tribal citizens have worked to conquer these challenges.Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. 

National Family Engagement Month

This month reminds us that families are children's first and most important teachers, advocates, and nurturers. Strong family support is vital to student well-being and success. 

FCPS has many resources designed to increase engagement and partnerships with families while fostering academic success and social-emotional growth.

Additionally, every school has a family liaison who will welcome and orient families, and help them understand the school's culture, policies, procedures, and practices. They can help connect families to resources in the community. Family liaisons might also assist a family in transitioning to a new school and encourage family-school partnerships to help ensure their student's success and healthy development.

If you have questions or would like more information, ask your school office to connect you with your family liaison or visit FCPS’ website for a list of region representatives. 

PTSO

South County High School PTSO is partnering with Seasonal Roots, a local online farmers market,  to bring healthy, delicious food to our community, to support local farmers and artisans, and to raise money to support the All Night Grad Party for our seniors!

Seasonal Roots is an online farmers market that delivers “dirt to doorstep”  to families in Maryland and Virginia. Each week the market offers more than 150 items that are all grown and produced locally, sustainably, and ethically. Market items include fruit, vegetables, meat, dairy, baked goods, prepared foods, vegan specialties and more.

As part of this fundraiser for ANGP - new customers can join Seasonal Roots for 50% off the membership fee (a $25 savings!)

PLUS for every new customer who signs up (and places their first order), a $20 donation will be made to South County PTSO! WIN-WIN for everyone!  Be sure to use promotional code SOCOANGP at https://www.seasonalroots.com/socoangp.

ALL ANGP LINKS

Lorton Holiday Extravaganza & Craft Show Publicity

It’s time to spread the word…The South County PTSO is looking for Student and Parent Volunteers to distribute flyers promoting the 19th Annual Lorton Holiday Extravaganza & Craft Show. Please take a moment to check out our Sign-up Genius and see if you can spare an hour or two! All students will receive volunteer credits.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A0949ACAF2BAAFD0-51298810-2024

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter @LortonSCHSCraft or @SCHSCraftShow and Instagram! 

We are excited to announce that parents are now able to enter ONLY full day absences through ParentVue.

Please be sure to specify in the notes the reason for the absence. If you have to report a late arrival, early release or an absence longer than 2 days, please call or email the attendance office at 703-446-1625 or [email protected]. Thank you!

Email: [email protected] Phone: 703-446-1625

OPTION 1- ALL DAY ABSENCE 

OPTION 2- LATE ARRIVAL

OPTION 3- EARLY RELEASE

 

(CALL OR EMAIL FIRST THING IN THE MORNING TO REPORT EARLY RELEASE)

• Handwritten notes are acceptable*
• Call/email/note must come from parent/guardian, NOT the student*
• Please always leave a message, they are checked constantly*

South County ATHLETICS

For the latest news, scores, and schedules

please visit our website.

Athletics & Activities Website: 

https://stallionnation.org/

Important SoCo and FCPS Resources How to Stay In Touch

Please stay in touch with us throughout the year by:

• Keeping your contact information up-to-date
• Visiting the South County High School Website
• Signing up for News You Choose
• Following us on Facebook
• Following us on Twitter
• Following us on Instagram
• Following  SoCo Athletics
• Monitoring your student's progress with SIS Parent Account
• Visiting the South County High School PTSO Web Site
• Joining the South County High School PTSO and attend meetings

• Athletic Boosters SCHS Athletic Boosters Club (SCABC)

• Transportation Office- 703-446-2150

South County High School Quick Links

• School lunch/menu info
• Parent and Student IT Support Portal
• Telephone Parent Info Line (Available in 8 languages)
• FCPS Parent Resource Center
• 2024-25 Standard School Year Calendar
• FCPS Cares-share and submit your story about a South County High School staff member who has gone above and beyond for your child this year. 
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• FCPS Safety Tipline
• Free and Reduced- Price Meals

8501 Silverbrook Road, Lorton, VA 22079 | Main Office: 703.446.1600
Attendance: 703.446.1625 | Web | Twitter

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Important Upcoming Dates

• 11/11/24- Veterans Day Holiday-is a holiday and schools will be closed for students.
• 11/12/24- 6:00 pm- PAC Meeting Library
• 11/18-11/22- American Education Week
• 11/21/24- National Family Engagement Day
• 11/22/24- Deadline to submit Outstanding Employee Recognition
• 11/27-11/29- Thanksgiving Day
• 12/07/24- 9am-2pm Auditorium- Silent Auction Fundraiser
• 12/07/24- 9am-3pm- Annual Lorton Holiday Extravaganza 
• 01/09/25- 7:00pm- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
• 02/11/25- 7:00pm- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
• 04/07/25 7:00pm- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
• 06/04/25- 7:00pm- Class of 2025 Graduation (Eagle Bank)

Message from Dr. Khoshaba

*** CORRECTION***

 

Our  Parent Advisory Council (PAC) is scheduled for tomorrow Tuesday November 12th at 6:00pm in the library not for November 13th. 

We apologize for this mistake. 

As the crisp, cool air drifts onto our campus, our Stallion spirit continues to sizzle! With fall festivities in full swing and the temperatures tumbling, there’s an exciting energy running through our hallways. We’re grateful for every parent, student, and staff member who keeps our community thriving through this season of vibrant changes. Let’s keep up the momentum and make these brisk days bright and full of South County pride!

High Quality Instruction

This past week, I had the great fortune of observing teachers in a different light, as we had several engaging presentations for our Staff Development Day. I had the privilege of being in the audience for presentations led by three outstanding educators: Patti Mosko, Saidi Haris, and Jackie Palaschak. Ms. Mosko and Dr. Saidi captivated us with their session on *Building Thinking Classrooms*, offering insightful strategies that transformed traditional lessons into dynamic, student-driven experiences, leaving us eager to implement their ideas. Ms. Palaschak delivered a compelling presentation on incorporating student voice and choice into instructional practices, encouraging collaboration and showcasing her deep commitment to making learning exciting and impactful for every student. Collectively, their dedication and passion for engaging students reminded us of the power we hold to ignite a love for learning.

School Culture:

Get Involved with PAC!

As a reminder, each marking period, I enjoy meeting with parents at our Parent Advisory Council (PAC) to share celebrations about SoCo, as well as forecast upcoming events. It’s also a wonderful time to hear directly from parents about questions and concerns that they may have. I’d like to invite all of you to attend our next PAC meeting on November 12 at 6PM in the library. So we can adequately prepare for the event, please sign up here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeHm1UNLf3s6IG1mlGK9HdKecqoHTbJoiOmN9sDHGwqLVSqCg/viewform

Senior Spotlight: A Night to Shine Together!

Senior Night was a powerful celebration of the incredible gifts and talents that make our student body truly extraordinary. From the graceful, expressive performances of our Dance team, to the electrifying energy and impeccable stunts of our Cheerleaders, to the unwavering grit and athleticism displayed by our Football team, our seniors shined under the lights, leaving the crowd inspired and proud. These students not only showcased their remarkable skills but also demonstrated the dedication, teamwork, and school spirit that make our South County community so special. Congratulations to the Seniors on all of these teams!

During one of our recent football games, I had the chance to speak with students who are active members of our Homeless Outreach club. These students have remarkable stories about what motivated them to serve those in our community in need of assistance. From stories about their parents paving the way to others who just saw a need and wanted to help, I left that conversation feeling so fortunate to serving this community with students who are as selfless as these. They raised money through selling baked goods, and I have to admit that the Cake Pops in particular were most delicious!

Spike and Strive: A Hard-Fought Match!

Our Boys Volleyball team made it to the first-ever District Finals match against West Springfield. While the outcome may not have been what we hoped for, we are incredibly proud of each and every player for their determination and effort on the court. They know that every match is an opportunity to learn and grow, and their resilience inspires us all. Next stop: Regionals! Best of luck, Stallions!

Purse-uing Creativity!

A huge Stallion shout-out to Ms. Kimble and her talented Ceramics 2 and 3 students for their amazing purse projects! You’ve truly “clay-ed” the foundation for creativity and craftsmanship! Your hard work and dedication shine through in each piece, and we can’t wait to see how you continue to mold your artistic talents. Keep up the fantastic work!

Staff Spotlight:

As we celebrate National French Week in November, I’d like to spotlight our one of our two OUTSTANDING French teachers, Ms. Baker. She is a dedicated French educator focused on advancing her expertise and growing the French program at SoCo, where she currently teaches French 1 through AP French and sponsors both the thriving French Club and National French Honor Society. With a rich academic background, she holds a B.S. in Business Administration, a Master’s degree in International Marketing, and significant training in French language and teaching methodology, including immersive experiences in France and Canada. Ms. Baker’s teaching career spans over 15 years across multiple institutions, including Valley Vista High School in Arizona and the University of South Florida, showcasing her ability to teach various French levels and develop AP courses. Her efforts at SCHS have led to the establishment of new courses and a significant expansion of French class enrollments, demonstrating her passion for inspiring students in French language and culture. Tu es la meilleure, Ms. Baker!

Club Corner:

The South County High School French Club is organized and run by members of our National French Honor Society.  Whereas our NFHS is composed of honor students who study French at Soco, the French Club is open to all students.

The French Club meets each quarter to experience the culture and civilization of La Francophonie (the French speaking countries around the world) and to provide an opportunity for socialization to students with similar interests.  Past events have included such themes as Winter in Quebec, Saint Valentin, Mardi Gras, and planning meetings for fundraisers and activities. We are currently painting a mural of a French Bakery to add to our Paris Cafe scene.  We plan to hold a grand opening for the bakery on November 14, 2024, during National French Week.  We hope to conduct bake sales of French breads and pastries in the future. For any comments or questions, feel free to email the sponsor, Ms. Baker, at [email protected].

Honoring Our Heroes: A Tribute to Veterans!

School is closed on Monday, November 11 in honor of our military veterans. This is a time when we take a moment to honor and express our deepest gratitude to the brave men and women who have served in our armed forces. Their unwavering dedication and sacrifice have protected our freedoms and ensured our safety. We recognize the courage, resilience, and commitment they have shown in defending our country, and we are inspired by their selflessness. To all our veterans and their families, thank you for your service!

Here is just one of several ways we honor our military veterans at SoCo: Our Appreciation Wall. Thank you to Mrs. Burnside, Mrs. Ohlmeyer, and their committee, for helping us celebrate these most deserving men and women with dignity and class.

As we wrap up this week’s newsletter, let’s carry forward the spirit of “Standing Strong” together. Each day, we witness the remarkable strength and resilience within our community, from our dedicated students and staff to our supportive families. Your commitment to fostering an environment where everyone can succeed is truly inspiring. Let’s continue to uplift one another as we embrace the challenges and triumphs ahead. Wishing you all a fantastic week filled with pride and purpose!

Kambar

South Count HS Theatre Presents:

Patrick Barlow’s comedic adaptation of The 39 Steps, Alfred Hitchcock’s famous film noir thriller bursts onto the stage with fast-paced action and nonstop laughs. The story centers around Richard Hannay, a man in a mid-life lull who is suddenly thrown in the middle of a dangerous spy ring and mistakenly accused of murder. As he rushes to save Britain from a horrible fate and clear his name, we sit on the edge of our seats urging him on and laughing at the absurd situations in which he finds himself. 

Get tickets here

FOOD FOR NEIGHBORS PARTNERSHIP WITH SCHS

Hunger is an unwelcome guest this holiday season.

For many families in our school community struggling financially, providing
daily meals is difficult and a special holiday meal can become a source of
worry and stress. Help a local family know the joy of gathering together for a
holiday meal.

We’re partnering with Food For Neighbors to provide $50
grocery store gift cards to our most vulnerable families. Visit the Food For
Neighbors’ website to learn how you can help. Thank you for your generosity.
Learn more here: www.foodforneighbors.org/home/holiday-meals

Impact Aid Survey

Attention FCPS Families!

The Federal Impact Aid Survey is now available to complete online. 

The Federal Impact Aid program provides money to districts that enroll federally connected students. Help FCPS secure funding from the Impact Aid Program by helping us identify: 

• Military families.
• Federally connected families.
• Families living on a military base.

Please complete one form for each child in your household. Remember that only the enrolling parent can fill out the Impact Aid Survey form. 

For families without access to ParentVUE, a paper copy of the form will be sent home with your student starting November 12. Your information will be kept strictly confidential.

Your support will ensure that we receive the resources for which we are eligible.

Step 1: CLICK HERE to be taken to SIS ParentVUE. If you don’t have a SIS ParentVUE account, contact your child’s school for an activation letter. 

Step 2: After you’ve logged into your ParentVue Account, look for the ‘Online Packets’ link at the top of the page. Click ‘Online Packets’.

Step 3: Next, click the ‘Federal Impact Aid Survey’ button on the bottom of the page. This will take you to the Impact Aid Survey for you to complete.

If you have multiple children in Fairfax County Public Schools, please fill out a form for each child. You will know you have completed all of the forms when you get to the final page, and see a green check next to each of their names.

Fairfax County Youth Survey

The Fairfax County Youth Survey, a collaboration between the Fairfax County School Board and the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, is a comprehensive, anonymous, and voluntary survey given each year to students in grades 6, 8, 10 and 12. The survey examines behaviors, experiences, and other factors that influence the health and well-being of Fairfax County's youth. The results, published each year at https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/youthsurvey, identify trends and areas of need, providing a snapshot of the county's youth and serving as a barometer of the community's effectiveness in fostering healthy choices in young people.

South County High School will be administering the Fairfax County Youth Survey on the following dates:

12th Grade: November 12th & 13th during English classes

10th Grade: November 14th & 15th during World History classes

While it is our hope that as many students as possible will participate, if you do not wish for your child to take part in the Youth Survey, please complete the form linked here and return it to your child's school counselor no later than November 8, 2024. If you have already opted your child out of this survey using the Parental Digital Consent Portal you do not need to provide additional information to the school counselor.

If you have any additional questions or concerns, please reach out to our Survey Coordinator, Ms. Turner, at [email protected].

We were hoping that you could nominate a deserving member of the stallion family who is worthy of praise and recognition through FCPS’s annual Outstanding Employees Recognition Program.  We have so many deserving candidates, and I hope you will let us know your thoughts.

Nominations are now open for the Outstanding Employee Awards! To submit a nomination for a South County High School Outstanding Employee in one of the categories below, please complete the nomination through the google forms that are linked to the descriptions. You may nominate multiple employees, but only one 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.

Please submit your nominations by 11/22/2024

Outstanding Principal (Click here to see the form)
Eligibility: Has at least three years of experience as the building principal

Outstanding Teacher  (Click here to see the form)

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

Outstanding New Teacher (Click here to see the form)

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

Outstanding Leader  (Click here to see the form)

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 and Associate Principals, Director of Student Activities, Director of Student Services

Outstanding Professional Employee (Click here to see the form)

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, Career Center Specialist, Instructional Coach, Psychologist, Social Worker, School Counselor, Safety and Security Specialist, Resource Teachers, SOSAs and MTSS coordinators that serve in an administrative role in a school.

Outstanding Operational Employee (Click here to see the form)

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 Friday, November 22, 2024

If you have any questions, please contact Bryan Hazard at [email protected]

Happy Nominating!

Thank you!

The Outstanding Employee Awards committee

Congratulations to the Marching Stallions on a very successful 2024 competition season! 

The band took first place at both the Herndon and Oakton Invitationals earlier this fall.  And, this past weekend, the band competed at the VMBC State Championships where they took second place in their size class and 13th place overall in the state!

 

As we gear up for the Annual Holiday Extravaganza on Dec 7, don’t forget we host a Silent Auction during this event.   If you own a business (or even if you do not!), we’d love for you to consider an in-kind donation of a basket or service to be auctioned.  All donations are tax deductible, and proceeds go directly back to the students at South County.  It’s a great way to get your business seen and heard by the Northern Virginia Community!

 If you’d like to offer a donation or want more information, reach out to Melanie Cummings at [email protected].  

 All donations need to be received by November 29.  We can arrange to pick up any donations, or they can also be mailed to the school at:

 SCHS Band Boosters

8501 Silverbrook Rd

Lorton, VA 22079

 

The South County Cross Country team is excited to announce our shoe drive fundraiser! We're collecting gently used shoes to support micro-businesses in developing countries and raise funds for our team.

Every pair of shoes makes a difference! Our goal is to collect 2,500 pairs. If each student donates just one pair, we can easily surpass our goal.

Please join us in making a positive impact on our community and the world!

Thank you for your support!

South County Cross Country Team

Parents of Current 10th graders,

South County will be hosting 4 sessions of PSTD - Partners for Safe Teen Driving this school year.  If your student is currently enrolled in HPE 10 it is mandatory that they attend ONE of the sessions with a parent/guardian.  The session dates are as follows: Jan 9, 2025, Feb. 11, 2025 and April 7, 2025. The presentations are held in the auditorium and begin promptly at 7:00 p.m.  Doors open at 6:45 and lock at 7:00 p.m. – no late arrivals permitted.  

Presentations last approximately 90 minutes.

Any questions please reach out to Maureen Saale- [email protected]

AWARENESS National Career Development Month

By enrolling in a Career and Technical Education (CTE) course or program, students learn the technical applications of many occupations while preparing for higher education or entry-level employment. A core program of CTE courses is offered in every middle and high school. Based on the needs of the populations served, each school determines optional courses to be offered. Learn more about Academies and Specialized Programs.

Native American Heritage Month

Native American Heritage Month is a time to celebrate rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories and to acknowledge the important contributions of Native Americans. It is also a time to raise a general awareness about the unique challenges they have faced both historically and in the present, and the ways in which tribal citizens have worked to conquer these challenges.Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. 

National Family Engagement Month

This month reminds us that families are children's first and most important teachers, advocates, and nurturers. Strong family support is vital to student well-being and success. 

FCPS has many resources designed to increase engagement and partnerships with families while fostering academic success and social-emotional growth.

Additionally, every school has a family liaison who will welcome and orient families, and help them understand the school's culture, policies, procedures, and practices. They can help connect families to resources in the community. Family liaisons might also assist a family in transitioning to a new school and encourage family-school partnerships to help ensure their student's success and healthy development.

If you have questions or would like more information, ask your school office to connect you with your family liaison or visit FCPS’ website for a list of region representatives. 

PTSO

South County High School PTSO is partnering with Seasonal Roots, a local online farmers market,  to bring healthy, delicious food to our community, to support local farmers and artisans, and to raise money to support the All Night Grad Party for our seniors!

Seasonal Roots is an online farmers market that delivers “dirt to doorstep”  to families in Maryland and Virginia. Each week the market offers more than 150 items that are all grown and produced locally, sustainably, and ethically. Market items include fruit, vegetables, meat, dairy, baked goods, prepared foods, vegan specialties and more.

As part of this fundraiser for ANGP - new customers can join Seasonal Roots for 50% off the membership fee (a $25 savings!)

PLUS for every new customer who signs up (and places their first order), a $20 donation will be made to South County PTSO! WIN-WIN for everyone!  Be sure to use promotional code SOCOANGP at https://www.seasonalroots.com/socoangp.

ALL ANGP LINKS

Lorton Holiday Extravaganza & Craft Show Publicity

It’s time to spread the word…The South County PTSO is looking for Student and Parent Volunteers to distribute flyers promoting the 19th Annual Lorton Holiday Extravaganza & Craft Show. Please take a moment to check out our Sign-up Genius and see if you can spare an hour or two! All students will receive volunteer credits.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A0949ACAF2BAAFD0-51298810-2024

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter @LortonSCHSCraft or @SCHSCraftShow and Instagram! 

We are excited to announce that parents are now able to enter ONLY full day absences through ParentVue.

Please be sure to specify in the notes the reason for the absence. If you have to report a late arrival, early release or an absence longer than 2 days, please call or email the attendance office at 703-446-1625 or [email protected]. Thank you!

Email: [email protected] Phone: 703-446-1625

OPTION 1- ALL DAY ABSENCE 

OPTION 2- LATE ARRIVAL

OPTION 3- EARLY RELEASE

 

(CALL OR EMAIL FIRST THING IN THE MORNING TO REPORT EARLY RELEASE)

• Handwritten notes are acceptable*
• Call/email/note must come from parent/guardian, NOT the student*
• Please always leave a message, they are checked constantly*

South County ATHLETICS

For the latest news, scores, and schedules

please visit our website.

Athletics & Activities Website: 

https://stallionnation.org/

Important SoCo and FCPS Resources How to Stay In Touch

Please stay in touch with us throughout the year by:

• Keeping your contact information up-to-date
• Visiting the South County High School Website
• Signing up for News You Choose
• Following us on Facebook
• Following us on Twitter
• Following us on Instagram
• Following  SoCo Athletics
• Monitoring your student's progress with SIS Parent Account
• Visiting the South County High School PTSO Web Site
• Joining the South County High School PTSO and attend meetings

• Athletic Boosters SCHS Athletic Boosters Club (SCABC)

• Transportation Office- 703-446-2150

South County High School Quick Links

• School lunch/menu info
• Parent and Student IT Support Portal
• Telephone Parent Info Line (Available in 8 languages)
• FCPS Parent Resource Center
• 2024-25 Standard School Year Calendar
• FCPS Cares-share and submit your story about a South County High School staff member who has gone above and beyond for your child this year. 
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• FCPS Safety Tipline
• Free and Reduced- Price Meals

8501 Silverbrook Road, Lorton, VA 22079 | Main Office: 703.446.1600
Attendance: 703.446.1625 | Web | Twitter

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Important Upcoming Dates

• 11/11/24- Veterans Day Holiday-is a holiday and schools will be closed for students.
• 11/18-11/22- American Education Week
• 11/21/24- National Family Engagement Day
• 11/22/24- Deadline to submit Outstanding Employee Recognition
• 11/27-11/29- Thanksgiving Day
• 12/07/24- 9am-2pm Auditorium- Silent Auction Fundraiser
• 12/07/24- 9am-3pm- Annual Lorton Holiday Extravaganza 
• 01/09/25- 7:00pm- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
• 02/11/25- 7:00pm- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
• 04/07/25 7:00pm- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
• 06/04/25- 7:00pm- Class of 2025 Graduation (Eagle Bank)

Message from Dr. Khoshaba

As the crisp, cool air drifts onto our campus, our Stallion spirit continues to sizzle! With fall festivities in full swing and the temperatures tumbling, there’s an exciting energy running through our hallways. We’re grateful for every parent, student, and staff member who keeps our community thriving through this season of vibrant changes. Let’s keep up the momentum and make these brisk days bright and full of South County pride!

High Quality Instruction

This past week, I had the great fortune of observing teachers in a different light, as we had several engaging presentations for our Staff Development Day. I had the privilege of being in the audience for presentations led by three outstanding educators: Patti Mosko, Saidi Haris, and Jackie Palaschak. Ms. Mosko and Dr. Saidi captivated us with their session on *Building Thinking Classrooms*, offering insightful strategies that transformed traditional lessons into dynamic, student-driven experiences, leaving us eager to implement their ideas. Ms. Palaschak delivered a compelling presentation on incorporating student voice and choice into instructional practices, encouraging collaboration and showcasing her deep commitment to making learning exciting and impactful for every student. Collectively, their dedication and passion for engaging students reminded us of the power we hold to ignite a love for learning.

School Culture:

Get Involved with PAC!

As a reminder, each marking period, I enjoy meeting with parents at our Parent Advisory Council (PAC) to share celebrations about SoCo, as well as forecast upcoming events. It’s also a wonderful time to hear directly from parents about questions and concerns that they may have. I’d like to invite all of you to attend our next PAC meeting on November 13 at 6PM in the library. So we can adequately prepare for the event, please sign up here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeHm1UNLf3s6IG1mlGK9HdKecqoHTbJoiOmN9sDHGwqLVSqCg/viewform

Senior Spotlight: A Night to Shine Together!

Senior Night was a powerful celebration of the incredible gifts and talents that make our student body truly extraordinary. From the graceful, expressive performances of our Dance team, to the electrifying energy and impeccable stunts of our Cheerleaders, to the unwavering grit and athleticism displayed by our Football team, our seniors shined under the lights, leaving the crowd inspired and proud. These students not only showcased their remarkable skills but also demonstrated the dedication, teamwork, and school spirit that make our South County community so special. Congratulations to the Seniors on all of these teams!

During one of our recent football games, I had the chance to speak with students who are active members of our Homeless Outreach club. These students have remarkable stories about what motivated them to serve those in our community in need of assistance. From stories about their parents paving the way to others who just saw a need and wanted to help, I left that conversation feeling so fortunate to serving this community with students who are as selfless as these. They raised money through selling baked goods, and I have to admit that the Cake Pops in particular were most delicious!

Spike and Strive: A Hard-Fought Match!

Our Boys Volleyball team made it to the first-ever District Finals match against West Springfield. While the outcome may not have been what we hoped for, we are incredibly proud of each and every player for their determination and effort on the court. They know that every match is an opportunity to learn and grow, and their resilience inspires us all. Next stop: Regionals! Best of luck, Stallions!

Purse-uing Creativity!

A huge Stallion shout-out to Ms. Kimble and her talented Ceramics 2 and 3 students for their amazing purse projects! You’ve truly “clay-ed” the foundation for creativity and craftsmanship! Your hard work and dedication shine through in each piece, and we can’t wait to see how you continue to mold your artistic talents. Keep up the fantastic work!

Staff Spotlight:

As we celebrate National French Week in November, I’d like to spotlight our one of our two OUTSTANDING French teachers, Ms. Baker. She is a dedicated French educator focused on advancing her expertise and growing the French program at SoCo, where she currently teaches French 1 through AP French and sponsors both the thriving French Club and National French Honor Society. With a rich academic background, she holds a B.S. in Business Administration, a Master’s degree in International Marketing, and significant training in French language and teaching methodology, including immersive experiences in France and Canada. Ms. Baker’s teaching career spans over 15 years across multiple institutions, including Valley Vista High School in Arizona and the University of South Florida, showcasing her ability to teach various French levels and develop AP courses. Her efforts at SCHS have led to the establishment of new courses and a significant expansion of French class enrollments, demonstrating her passion for inspiring students in French language and culture. Tu es la meilleure, Ms. Baker!

Club Corner:

The South County High School French Club is organized and run by members of our National French Honor Society.  Whereas our NFHS is composed of honor students who study French at Soco, the French Club is open to all students.

The French Club meets each quarter to experience the culture and civilization of La Francophonie (the French speaking countries around the world) and to provide an opportunity for socialization to students with similar interests.  Past events have included such themes as Winter in Quebec, Saint Valentin, Mardi Gras, and planning meetings for fundraisers and activities. We are currently painting a mural of a French Bakery to add to our Paris Cafe scene.  We plan to hold a grand opening for the bakery on November 14, 2024, during National French Week.  We hope to conduct bake sales of French breads and pastries in the future. For any comments or questions, feel free to email the sponsor, Ms. Baker, at [email protected].

Honoring Our Heroes: A Tribute to Veterans!

School is closed on Monday, November 11 in honor of our military veterans. This is a time when we take a moment to honor and express our deepest gratitude to the brave men and women who have served in our armed forces. Their unwavering dedication and sacrifice have protected our freedoms and ensured our safety. We recognize the courage, resilience, and commitment they have shown in defending our country, and we are inspired by their selflessness. To all our veterans and their families, thank you for your service!

Here is just one of several ways we honor our military veterans at SoCo: Our Appreciation Wall. Thank you to Mrs. Burnside, Mrs. Ohlmeyer, and their committee, for helping us celebrate these most deserving men and women with dignity and class.

As we wrap up this week’s newsletter, let’s carry forward the spirit of “Standing Strong” together. Each day, we witness the remarkable strength and resilience within our community, from our dedicated students and staff to our supportive families. Your commitment to fostering an environment where everyone can succeed is truly inspiring. Let’s continue to uplift one another as we embrace the challenges and triumphs ahead. Wishing you all a fantastic week filled with pride and purpose!

Kambar

South Count HS Theatre Presents:

Patrick Barlow’s comedic adaptation of The 39 Steps, Alfred Hitchcock’s famous film noir thriller bursts onto the stage with fast-paced action and nonstop laughs. The story centers around Richard Hannay, a man in a mid-life lull who is suddenly thrown in the middle of a dangerous spy ring and mistakenly accused of murder. As he rushes to save Britain from a horrible fate and clear his name, we sit on the edge of our seats urging him on and laughing at the absurd situations in which he finds himself. 

Get tickets here

FOOD FOR NEIGHBORS PARTNERSHIP WITH SCHS

Hunger is an unwelcome guest this holiday season.

For many families in our school community struggling financially, providing
daily meals is difficult and a special holiday meal can become a source of
worry and stress. Help a local family know the joy of gathering together for a
holiday meal.

We’re partnering with Food For Neighbors to provide $50
grocery store gift cards to our most vulnerable families. Visit the Food For
Neighbors’ website to learn how you can help. Thank you for your generosity.
Learn more here: www.foodforneighbors.org/home/holiday-meals

Impact Aid Survey

Attention FCPS Families!

The Federal Impact Aid Survey is now available to complete online. 

The Federal Impact Aid program provides money to districts that enroll federally connected students. Help FCPS secure funding from the Impact Aid Program by helping us identify: 

• Military families.
• Federally connected families.
• Families living on a military base.

Please complete one form for each child in your household. Remember that only the enrolling parent can fill out the Impact Aid Survey form. 

For families without access to ParentVUE, a paper copy of the form will be sent home with your student starting November 12. Your information will be kept strictly confidential.

Your support will ensure that we receive the resources for which we are eligible.

Step 1: CLICK HERE to be taken to SIS ParentVUE. If you don’t have a SIS ParentVUE account, contact your child’s school for an activation letter. 

Step 2: After you’ve logged into your ParentVue Account, look for the ‘Online Packets’ link at the top of the page. Click ‘Online Packets’.

Step 3: Next, click the ‘Federal Impact Aid Survey’ button on the bottom of the page. This will take you to the Impact Aid Survey for you to complete.

If you have multiple children in Fairfax County Public Schools, please fill out a form for each child. You will know you have completed all of the forms when you get to the final page, and see a green check next to each of their names.

Fairfax County Youth Survey

The Fairfax County Youth Survey, a collaboration between the Fairfax County School Board and the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, is a comprehensive, anonymous, and voluntary survey given each year to students in grades 6, 8, 10 and 12. The survey examines behaviors, experiences, and other factors that influence the health and well-being of Fairfax County's youth. The results, published each year at https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/youthsurvey, identify trends and areas of need, providing a snapshot of the county's youth and serving as a barometer of the community's effectiveness in fostering healthy choices in young people.

South County High School will be administering the Fairfax County Youth Survey on the following dates:

12th Grade: November 12th & 13th during English classes

10th Grade: November 14th & 15th during World History classes

While it is our hope that as many students as possible will participate, if you do not wish for your child to take part in the Youth Survey, please complete the form linked here and return it to your child's school counselor no later than November 8, 2024. If you have already opted your child out of this survey using the Parental Digital Consent Portal you do not need to provide additional information to the school counselor.

If you have any additional questions or concerns, please reach out to our Survey Coordinator, Ms. Turner, at [email protected].

We were hoping that you could nominate a deserving member of the stallion family who is worthy of praise and recognition through FCPS’s annual Outstanding Employees Recognition Program.  We have so many deserving candidates, and I hope you will let us know your thoughts.

Nominations are now open for the Outstanding Employee Awards! To submit a nomination for a South County High School Outstanding Employee in one of the categories below, please complete the nomination through the google forms that are linked to the descriptions. You may nominate multiple employees, but only one 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.

Please submit your nominations by 11/22/2024

Outstanding Principal (Click here to see the form)
Eligibility: Has at least three years of experience as the building principal

Outstanding Teacher  (Click here to see the form)

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

Outstanding New Teacher (Click here to see the form)

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

Outstanding Leader  (Click here to see the form)

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 and Associate Principals, Director of Student Activities, Director of Student Services

Outstanding Professional Employee (Click here to see the form)

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, Career Center Specialist, Instructional Coach, Psychologist, Social Worker, School Counselor, Safety and Security Specialist, Resource Teachers, SOSAs and MTSS coordinators that serve in an administrative role in a school.

Outstanding Operational Employee (Click here to see the form)

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 Friday, November 22, 2024

If you have any questions, please contact Bryan Hazard at [email protected]

Happy Nominating!

Thank you!

The Outstanding Employee Awards committee

Congratulations to the Marching Stallions on a very successful 2024 competition season! 

The band took first place at both the Herndon and Oakton Invitationals earlier this fall.  And, this past weekend, the band competed at the VMBC State Championships where they took second place in their size class and 13th place overall in the state!

 

As we gear up for the Annual Holiday Extravaganza on Dec 7, don’t forget we host a Silent Auction during this event.   If you own a business (or even if you do not!), we’d love for you to consider an in-kind donation of a basket or service to be auctioned.  All donations are tax deductible, and proceeds go directly back to the students at South County.  It’s a great way to get your business seen and heard by the Northern Virginia Community!

 If you’d like to offer a donation or want more information, reach out to Melanie Cummings at [email protected].  

 All donations need to be received by November 29.  We can arrange to pick up any donations, or they can also be mailed to the school at:

 SCHS Band Boosters

8501 Silverbrook Rd

Lorton, VA 22079

 

The South County Cross Country team is excited to announce our shoe drive fundraiser! We're collecting gently used shoes to support micro-businesses in developing countries and raise funds for our team.

Every pair of shoes makes a difference! Our goal is to collect 2,500 pairs. If each student donates just one pair, we can easily surpass our goal.

Please join us in making a positive impact on our community and the world!

Thank you for your support!

South County Cross Country Team

Parents of Current 10th graders,

South County will be hosting 4 sessions of PSTD - Partners for Safe Teen Driving this school year.  If your student is currently enrolled in HPE 10 it is mandatory that they attend ONE of the sessions with a parent/guardian.  The session dates are as follows: Jan 9, 2025, Feb. 11, 2025 and April 7, 2025. The presentations are held in the auditorium and begin promptly at 7:00 p.m.  Doors open at 6:45 and lock at 7:00 p.m. – no late arrivals permitted.  

Presentations last approximately 90 minutes.

Any questions please reach out to Maureen Saale- [email protected]

AWARENESS National Career Development Month

By enrolling in a Career and Technical Education (CTE) course or program, students learn the technical applications of many occupations while preparing for higher education or entry-level employment. A core program of CTE courses is offered in every middle and high school. Based on the needs of the populations served, each school determines optional courses to be offered. Learn more about Academies and Specialized Programs.

Native American Heritage Month

Native American Heritage Month is a time to celebrate rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories and to acknowledge the important contributions of Native Americans. It is also a time to raise a general awareness about the unique challenges they have faced both historically and in the present, and the ways in which tribal citizens have worked to conquer these challenges.Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. 

National Family Engagement Month

This month reminds us that families are children's first and most important teachers, advocates, and nurturers. Strong family support is vital to student well-being and success. 

FCPS has many resources designed to increase engagement and partnerships with families while fostering academic success and social-emotional growth.

Additionally, every school has a family liaison who will welcome and orient families, and help them understand the school's culture, policies, procedures, and practices. They can help connect families to resources in the community. Family liaisons might also assist a family in transitioning to a new school and encourage family-school partnerships to help ensure their student's success and healthy development.

If you have questions or would like more information, ask your school office to connect you with your family liaison or visit FCPS’ website for a list of region representatives. 

PTSO

South County High School PTSO is partnering with Seasonal Roots, a local online farmers market,  to bring healthy, delicious food to our community, to support local farmers and artisans, and to raise money to support the All Night Grad Party for our seniors!

Seasonal Roots is an online farmers market that delivers “dirt to doorstep”  to families in Maryland and Virginia. Each week the market offers more than 150 items that are all grown and produced locally, sustainably, and ethically. Market items include fruit, vegetables, meat, dairy, baked goods, prepared foods, vegan specialties and more.

As part of this fundraiser for ANGP - new customers can join Seasonal Roots for 50% off the membership fee (a $25 savings!)

PLUS for every new customer who signs up (and places their first order), a $20 donation will be made to South County PTSO! WIN-WIN for everyone!  Be sure to use promotional code SOCOANGP at https://www.seasonalroots.com/socoangp.

ALL ANGP LINKS

Lorton Holiday Extravaganza & Craft Show Publicity

It’s time to spread the word…The South County PTSO is looking for Student and Parent Volunteers to distribute flyers promoting the 19th Annual Lorton Holiday Extravaganza & Craft Show. Please take a moment to check out our Sign-up Genius and see if you can spare an hour or two! All students will receive volunteer credits.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A0949ACAF2BAAFD0-51298810-2024

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter @LortonSCHSCraft or @SCHSCraftShow and Instagram! 

We are excited to announce that parents are now able to enter ONLY full day absences through ParentVue.

Please be sure to specify in the notes the reason for the absence. If you have to report a late arrival, early release or an absence longer than 2 days, please call or email the attendance office at 703-446-1625 or [email protected]. Thank you!

Email: [email protected] Phone: 703-446-1625

OPTION 1- ALL DAY ABSENCE 

OPTION 2- LATE ARRIVAL

OPTION 3- EARLY RELEASE

 

(CALL OR EMAIL FIRST THING IN THE MORNING TO REPORT EARLY RELEASE)

• Handwritten notes are acceptable*
• Call/email/note must come from parent/guardian, NOT the student*
• Please always leave a message, they are checked constantly*

South County ATHLETICS

For the latest news, scores, and schedules

please visit our website.

Athletics & Activities Website: 

https://stallionnation.org/

Important SoCo and FCPS Resources How to Stay In Touch

Please stay in touch with us throughout the year by:

• Keeping your contact information up-to-date
• Visiting the South County High School Website
• Signing up for News You Choose
• Following us on Facebook
• Following us on Twitter
• Following us on Instagram
• Following  SoCo Athletics
• Monitoring your student's progress with SIS Parent Account
• Visiting the South County High School PTSO Web Site
• Joining the South County High School PTSO and attend meetings

• Athletic Boosters SCHS Athletic Boosters Club (SCABC)

• Transportation Office- 703-446-2150

South County High School Quick Links

• School lunch/menu info
• Parent and Student IT Support Portal
• Telephone Parent Info Line (Available in 8 languages)
• FCPS Parent Resource Center
• 2024-25 Standard School Year Calendar
• FCPS Cares-share and submit your story about a South County High School staff member who has gone above and beyond for your child this year. 
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• FCPS Safety Tipline
• Free and Reduced- Price Meals

8501 Silverbrook Road, Lorton, VA 22079 | Main Office: 703.446.1600
Attendance: 703.446.1625 | Web | Twitter

For the latest news, scores, and schedules please visit our SCHS Athletics & Activities website:  https://stallionnation.org

To be eligible to tryout for High School Sports you must complete the following:

 

• Online Registration (click here)

The athlete AND one parent/guardian must review the online Concussion Education presentation, which is part of the online registration process mentioned above. This must be completed once per year.

• Current VHSL Physical Form (click here)

The VHSL form must say “Revised January 2021” in the top right corner of pages 1-4. No other versions of this document will be accepted. Please be sure that this form is completed in it’s entirety. Incomplete forms will be returned to families. Page 3 must be signed and dated (After May 1, 2024) by a physician.

All freshmen are academically eligible for sports in the fall and winter. High School students must pass no less than five credits the previous semester to remain eligible each season.

All required forms and contact information for coaches are available on the Athletics and Activities website https://stallionnation.org/.

 

First Day of Tryouts

Fall Sports – August 5, 2024 Winter Sports – Nov 11th. 2024 Spring Sports – Feb 24, 2025 Cheerleading Boys/Girls Basketball Baseball Cross Country Gymnastics Boys/Girls Crew Dance (Tryouts in June) Boys/Girls Indoor Track Boys/Girls Lacrosse Field Hockey Boys/Girls Swim & Dive Boys/Girls Soccer Football Wrestling Softball Golf (Starts August 1) Sideline Cheer Boys/Girls Outdoor Track Boys/Girls Volleyball   Boys/Girls Tennis

 

If you have a child, grand-child, niece or nephew participating in one or more of our SCHS athletic programs this year, please consider becoming a member of the Athletic Boosters and helping run our non-profit organization with fellow parent-volunteers. 

 

Click Here to Join the South County Athletic Booster Club!

 

Follow us on Social Media:

Instagram

Twitter

Facebook

 

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

Election Day

Don’t forget to get out and vote on Tuesday, Nov. 5! The day will be observed as a holiday for students and a teacher work day. For more information, visit the Virginia Department of Elections webpage. See the complete school year calendar.

Important Upcoming Dates

• 11/05/24- Election Day- Student Holiday and Teacher Work Day
• 11/08/24- 7:20am- Annual Veterans Day Ceremony
• 11/11/24- Veterans Day Holiday
• 11/18-11/22- American Education Week
• 11/21/24- National Family Engagement Day
• 11/27-11/29- Thanksgiving Day
• 12/07/24- 9am-3pm- Annual Lorton Holiday Extravaganza 
• 01/09/25- 7:00pm- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
• 02/11/25- 7:00pm- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
• 04/07/25 7:00pm- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
• 06/04/25- 7:00pm- Class of 2025 Graduation (Eagle Bank)

Message from Dr. Khoshaba

Welcome to November, Stallions!

As we enter this season of reflection and gratitude, November offers us a fresh opportunity to come together as a community, support each other, and celebrate our growth. With just a few short weeks until the holidays, let’s keep building momentum, encouraging kindness, and working toward our shared goals. I look forward to making the month of November one to remember!

A Sense of Belonging: Core Values Spotlight

Four years ago, our students worked with the administrative team and identified four core values that they felt all students could embody: honesty, trust, curiosity, and hope. Since then, we spend time each month celebrating students who demonstrate one of those values with their interactions at school. This year, we’ve expanded that recognition to include staff as well. I want to thank our Culture Champions team, led by Ms. Hill, Mr. Kingston, and Mrs. Tolan, for receiving nominations and formally celebrating the following Stallions for their core values demonstrations this past week:

 

High Quality Instruction

This week’s focus centers on one of our newest additions to our Stallion staff, Mr. Gavin Jackson. I had the joy of observing his Computer Systems Foundations class this week, and I marveled at how smoothly he presented some very abstract concepts. He expertly varied student participation, ensuring everyone had a chance to engage and contribute. By projecting his screen onto the board, Mr. Jackson made complex concepts accessible, enhancing students' understanding through a clear visual approach. Most notably, the positive rapport he shares with his students created an open and supportive classroom environment where students felt encouraged and motivated to learn. Way to go, Mr. Jackson!

School Culture:

Each marking period, I enjoy meeting with parents at our Parent Advisory Council (PAC) to share celebrations about SoCo, as well as forecast upcoming events. It’s also a wonderful time to hear directly from parents about questions and concerns that they may have. I’d like to invite all of you to attend our next PAC meeting on November 13 at 6PM in the library. So we can adequately prepare for the event, please sign up here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeHm1UNLf3s6IG1mlGK9HdKecqoHTbJoiOmN9sDHGwqLVSqCg/viewform

Congratulations to our Stallion football team for crushing it on the field and bringing home a Homecoming victory! Their hard work, grit, and teamwork made all the difference. In addition, a huge thank you goes out to all the amazing organizations, dedicated parents, and spirited students who made this Homecoming an event to remember. I worked at the main gate for much of the evening and had a particularly insightful conversation with some of our youngest and most spirited Stallions!

 

Speaking of Homecoming, I also want to thank Mrs. Peck, the staff, and our parent volunteers who chaperoned our Cloud 9 dance. The Homecoming dance was an unforgettable night filled with energy, excitement, and endless fun! From the music to the memories made, it was a celebration that truly brought our Stallion spirit to life!

Our Super Stallion Boys Volleyball team delivered a stunning performance, beating Alexandria City in the District semi-finals in three straight games! Their teamwork and determination were truly spike-tacular, showcasing the heart and hustle we know and love at SoCo. Perhaps the greatest strength of this team is the support they have of one another, cheering each other on through challenges and celebrating each point. Now, they’re primed and ready for the District Finals this Monday! Let’s keep that Stallion spirit strong and cheer them on to victory. Go SoCo!

 

I want to also thank our Librarians, Ms. Strong and Ms. Romney. They have helped us in our initiative to create a culture of literacy at SoCo. Most recently, they have created new student and staff “read” posters to help encourage others to join our community literacy leaders. Grab a book and join us in making reading a proud part of our Stallion legacy!

 

I have one final item for this section of the newsletter. Part of our SoCo culture that is so special is how much we support one another. That is the impetus of the following request. As we enter the month of November, a time of Thanksgiving and gratitude, I’d like us to take a moment to recognize the incredible dedication of our staff at South County High. This time of year can be particularly challenging for our teachers and support staff, as they have been tirelessly working to provide the best possible experience for our students without a significant break since the school year began.

I invite you to share your appreciation by sending heartfelt messages to our staff throughout this month. Whether it's a note or email of thanks, a kind word, or a simple acknowledgment of their hard work, your words can make a significant difference in lifting their spirits and reminding them how valued they are in our school community.

Thank you in advance for your continued support and for helping us celebrate our amazing staff during this season of gratitude!

Staff Spotlight

Congratulations to Justyne Fischer and Art Smith, two of our Art teachers, who will have their own artwork displayed at the 17th Annual Artist Teacher Exhibition. This year’s exhibition theme is Materiality, highlighting the exploration of media/materials in art making and how artists push those boundaries. The reception is scheduled Saturday, November 9th from 6:00 pm - 8:00 p.m. in the McGuireWoods Gallery at the Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton. We are excited and proud of our teachers and look forward to the reception.

 

 

Club Corner

Animal Allies is a club dedicated to advocating for animal rights and welfare, giving a voice to animals who cannot fight for themselves. The club meets on the last Friday of each month to carry out service projects that support local shelters and raise awareness about legislation that improves animal welfare. Members engage in advocacy efforts, such as writing to senators and representatives to endorse pro-animal legislation.

This year, Animal Allies also plans to reduce human impacts on wildlife by encouraging more thoughtful interactions with the environment. One key project they hope to pursue is the creation and monitoring of a nesting box for an endangered waterfowl, in collaboration with Fairfax County. Additionally, they will continue successful past initiatives like the annual Shelter Food Drive in February. For more information, please contact the club’s sponsor, Ms. Irish, at [email protected].

Spotlight: Days of Joy

I had two memories from this past week that I’m still smiling about.

First, I had a great meeting with the Band Booster parents this week. They were energetic, positive, and proactive in the planning of upcoming events.

I certainly look forward to our next meeting in mid-November.

Second the staff here at SoCo are always professional, so it was nice to see them let their hair down on Halloween. Two staff members in particular, Ms. Palaschak and Ms. Cano, outdid themselves with their costumes. They had me doing double take, or should I say a TRIPLE take!

Save the Date!

It’s official! Our graduation date for the class of 2025 is Wednesday, June 4 at 7PM at Eagle Bank Arena. We look forward to celebrating this momentous occasion in SoCo fashion!

I hope everyone has a wonderful extended weekend, and we look forward to our students returning to school on Wednesday, November 6.

Kambar

#StandStrong 

Please join us for our Annual Veterans Day Ceremony at Door 1 on November 8th at 7:20am.

STALLIONS, ARE THERE VETERANS IN YOUR FAMILY?

In honor of Veterans Day, please help us recognize all those in our SoCo family who have served.

Complete the form using the QR code or bit.ly and we will add your veteran to our recognition wall this November. 

South Count HS Theatre Presents:

Patrick Barlow’s comedic adaptation of The 39 Steps, Alfred Hitchcock’s famous film noir thriller bursts onto the stage with fast-paced action and nonstop laughs. The story centers around Richard Hannay, a man in a mid-life lull who is suddenly thrown in the middle of a dangerous spy ring and mistakenly accused of murder. As he rushes to save Britain from a horrible fate and clear his name, we sit on the edge of our seats urging him on and laughing at the absurd situations in which he finds himself. 

Get tickets here

FOOD FOR NEIGHBORS PARTNERSHIP WITH SCHS

Hunger is an unwelcome guest this holiday season.

For many families in our school community struggling financially, providing
daily meals is difficult and a special holiday meal can become a source of
worry and stress. Help a local family know the joy of gathering together for a
holiday meal.

We’re partnering with Food For Neighbors to provide $50
grocery store gift cards to our most vulnerable families. Visit the Food For
Neighbors’ website to learn how you can help. Thank you for your generosity.
Learn more here: www.foodforneighbors.org/home/holiday-meals

Impact Aid Survey

Attention FCPS Families!

The Federal Impact Aid Survey is now available to complete online. 

The Federal Impact Aid program provides money to districts that enroll federally connected students. Help FCPS secure funding from the Impact Aid Program by helping us identify: 

• Military families.
• Federally connected families.
• Families living on a military base.

Please complete one form for each child in your household. Remember that only the enrolling parent can fill out the Impact Aid Survey form. 

For families without access to ParentVUE, a paper copy of the form will be sent home with your student starting November 12. Your information will be kept strictly confidential.

Your support will ensure that we receive the resources for which we are eligible.

Step 1: CLICK HERE to be taken to SIS ParentVUE. If you don’t have a SIS ParentVUE account, contact your child’s school for an activation letter. 

Step 2: After you’ve logged into your ParentVue Account, look for the ‘Online Packets’ link at the top of the page. Click ‘Online Packets’.

Step 3: Next, click the ‘Federal Impact Aid Survey’ button on the bottom of the page. This will take you to the Impact Aid Survey for you to complete.

If you have multiple children in Fairfax County Public Schools, please fill out a form for each child. You will know you have completed all of the forms when you get to the final page, and see a green check next to each of their names.

 

The South County Cross Country team is excited to announce our shoe drive fundraiser! We're collecting gently used shoes to support micro-businesses in developing countries and raise funds for our team.

Every pair of shoes makes a difference! Our goal is to collect 2,500 pairs. If each student donates just one pair, we can easily surpass our goal.

Please join us in making a positive impact on our community and the world!

Thank you for your support!

South County Cross Country Team

Parents of Current 10th graders,

South County will be hosting 4 sessions of PSTD - Partners for Safe Teen Driving this school year.  If your student is currently enrolled in HPE 10 it is mandatory that they attend ONE of the sessions with a parent/guardian.  The session dates are as follows: Jan 9, 2025, Feb. 11, 2025 and April 7, 2025. The presentations are held in the auditorium and begin promptly at 7:00 p.m.  Doors open at 6:45 and lock at 7:00 p.m. – no late arrivals permitted.  

Presentations last approximately 90 minutes.

Any questions please reach out to Maureen Saale- [email protected]

AWARENESS National Career Development Month

By enrolling in a Career and Technical Education (CTE) course or program, students learn the technical applications of many occupations while preparing for higher education or entry-level employment. A core program of CTE courses is offered in every middle and high school. Based on the needs of the populations served, each school determines optional courses to be offered. Learn more about Academies and Specialized Programs.

Native American Heritage Month

Native American Heritage Month is a time to celebrate rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories and to acknowledge the important contributions of Native Americans. It is also a time to raise a general awareness about the unique challenges they have faced both historically and in the present, and the ways in which tribal citizens have worked to conquer these challenges.Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. 

National Family Engagement Month

This month reminds us that families are children's first and most important teachers, advocates, and nurturers. Strong family support is vital to student well-being and success. 

FCPS has many resources designed to increase engagement and partnerships with families while fostering academic success and social-emotional growth.

Additionally, every school has a family liaison who will welcome and orient families, and help them understand the school's culture, policies, procedures, and practices. They can help connect families to resources in the community. Family liaisons might also assist a family in transitioning to a new school and encourage family-school partnerships to help ensure their student's success and healthy development.

If you have questions or would like more information, ask your school office to connect you with your family liaison or visit FCPS’ website for a list of region representatives. 

PTSO

South County High School PTSO is partnering with Seasonal Roots, a local online farmers market,  to bring healthy, delicious food to our community, to support local farmers and artisans, and to raise money to support the All Night Grad Party for our seniors!

Seasonal Roots is an online farmers market that delivers “dirt to doorstep”  to families in Maryland and Virginia. Each week the market offers more than 150 items that are all grown and produced locally, sustainably, and ethically. Market items include fruit, vegetables, meat, dairy, baked goods, prepared foods, vegan specialties and more.

As part of this fundraiser for ANGP - new customers can join Seasonal Roots for 50% off the membership fee (a $25 savings!)

PLUS for every new customer who signs up (and places their first order), a $20 donation will be made to South County PTSO! WIN-WIN for everyone!  Be sure to use promotional code SOCOANGP at https://www.seasonalroots.com/socoangp.

ALL ANGP LINKS

Lorton Holiday Extravaganza & Craft Show Publicity

It’s time to spread the word…The South County PTSO is looking for Student and Parent Volunteers to distribute flyers promoting the 19th Annual Lorton Holiday Extravaganza & Craft Show. Please take a moment to check out our Sign-up Genius and see if you can spare an hour or two! All students will receive volunteer credits.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A0949ACAF2BAAFD0-51298810-2024

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter @LortonSCHSCraft or @SCHSCraftShow and Instagram! 

We are excited to announce that parents are now able to enter ONLY full day absences through ParentVue.

Please be sure to specify in the notes the reason for the absence. If you have to report a late arrival, early release or an absence longer than 2 days, please call or email the attendance office at 703-446-1625 or [email protected]. Thank you!

Email: [email protected] Phone: 703-446-1625

OPTION 1- ALL DAY ABSENCE 

OPTION 2- LATE ARRIVAL

OPTION 3- EARLY RELEASE

 

(CALL OR EMAIL FIRST THING IN THE MORNING TO REPORT EARLY RELEASE)

• Handwritten notes are acceptable*
• Call/email/note must come from parent/guardian, NOT the student*
• Please always leave a message, they are checked constantly*

South County ATHLETICS

For the latest news, scores, and schedules

please visit our website.

Athletics & Activities Website: 

https://stallionnation.org/

Important SoCo and FCPS Resources How to Stay In Touch

Please stay in touch with us throughout the year by:

• Keeping your contact information up-to-date
• Visiting the South County High School Website
• Signing up for News You Choose
• Following us on Facebook
• Following us on Twitter
• Following us on Instagram
• Following  SoCo Athletics
• Monitoring your student's progress with SIS Parent Account
• Visiting the South County High School PTSO Web Site
• Joining the South County High School PTSO and attend meetings

• Athletic Boosters SCHS Athletic Boosters Club (SCABC)

• Transportation Office- 703-446-2150

South County High School Quick Links

• School lunch/menu info
• Parent and Student IT Support Portal
• Telephone Parent Info Line (Available in 8 languages)
• FCPS Parent Resource Center
• 2024-25 Standard School Year Calendar
• FCPS Cares-share and submit your story about a South County High School staff member who has gone above and beyond for your child this year. 
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• FCPS Safety Tipline
• Free and Reduced- Price Meals

8501 Silverbrook Road, Lorton, VA 22079 | Main Office: 703.446.1600
Attendance: 703.446.1625 | Web | Twitter

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

Important Upcoming Dates

• 10/31/24- Quarter End- Early Dismissal
• 11/01/24- Diwali/ Dia de los Muertos and All Saints Day (Holiday)
• 11/03-11/04- School Planning and Teacher Workday
• 11/04 & 11/05- FINAL Senior Portraits Session
• 12/07/24- 9am-3pm- Annual Lorton Holiday Extravaganza 
• 01/09/25- 7:00pm- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
• 02/11/25- 7:00pm- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
• 04/07/25 7:00pm- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
• 06/04/25- 7:00pm- Class of 2025 Graduation (Eagle Bank)

Message from Dr. Khoshaba

Greetings, Stallion family!

As the crisp air and colorful leaves signal the change of seasons, we’re excited to celebrate all the fall fun and fabulous feats happening at South County High! From football to festivals, and everything in between, our Stallions are showing their spirit and striving for success. We kept the momentum going this week, as we had lots to celebrate during Homecoming! As I write this newsletter, we have not had our football game nor dance, so I’ll report on those in next week’s edition. Now, onto this past week’s events and memories!

Student and Staff Belonging

Let's give a big cash shoutout to our students who truly made “cents” at last week’s DECA competition! Their hard work and dedication to mastering money management has certainly paid off, with several students placing at the event and representing South County with pride.

Job Interview: Anthony Avis (3rd), Danica Santos (4th)

Principles of Marketing: Test-Jerren Schexnider (3rd), Role Play–Peyton Baines Trapp (1st)

Personal Financial Literacy: Test - Rohan Shah (1st), Role Play – Rohan Shah (2nd)

Way to go, DECA Stallions—your futures are looking rich with potential!

High Quality Instruction

This week, I completed multiple classroom observations. For brevity, I will focus on one observation to share insights.

Introducing Ms. Watkins—a dynamic new addition to South County whose engaging and innovative teaching style has already made a remarkable impact! Her lesson was about the Gupta Empire’s golden age, using visually rich slides to bring history to life. The lesson incorporated students moving throughout the room, working alone or in groups (student choice), and Ms. Watkins giving detailed feedback throughout the observation. Just like the Gupta Empire, Ms. Watkins is in her own Golden Age, as her teaching practices are uniquely effective, valuable, and leave a lasting impact on her students. Way to go, Ms. Watkins!

School Culture

For this being Homecoming Week, you must know that SoCo is going to bring a lot of fun events to the calendar. There were so many wonderful themed days this week, so I’d like to thank Mrs. Peck and her leadership students for leading the way. Of course, there are NUMEROUS other staff, students, and parents who assisted in making this a very special week. Here’s just a sample of the beautiful decorations we had in the main lobby area to kick-off Cloud 9 week:

I was thrilled to attend another Boys Volleyball game, and this time to celebrate Senior Night! Our Stallion Seniors have shown how dedication and hard work, both on and off the court, can translate to exceptional support for one another.

Not to be outdone, our Girls Volleyball team served up a high level of sportsmanship and athleticism on the court as they celebrated their Senior Night this week as well! We’re incredibly proud of their growth as students and good citizens!

 

Thursday night we hosted our first Powder Puff football game in quite some time, and it was an electrifying event! In a thrilling showdown, the freshmen outplayed the sophomores 18-6, while the seniors triumphed over the juniors 14-0 in two fiercely competitive matches. The freshmen and seniors really "puffed" up their game, demonstrating impressive teamwork and determination. The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement as students cheered on their classmates, showcasing spirited support and a sense of school pride. We look forward to more exciting events like this that bring our community together!

Congratulations to our Orchestra Director, Ms. Swift, and her sensational students for their masterful Masquerade concert! Their musical brilliance was marked by precision, passion, and pure performance prowess, captivating the audience from start to finish. Bravo to Ms. Swift and her talented team for a truly unforgettable evening!

We’re absolutely thrilled to unveil our stunning new door and wall murals, brought to life by the incredible support of Josten’s! These vibrant works of art don’t just showcase our strong Stallion spirit—they radiate it, transforming our halls and front entrance ways into an inspiring tribute to the heart and pride of our school community. Thank you again to all of you who worked on our branding committee last year to help bring these ideas to fruition!

Club Corner

The Asian Student Association celebrates asian culture and recognizes such events as the Lunar New Year (China), Japanese Holidays, Korean Thanks Giving, and Diwali (Festival of Lights) India. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to either sponsor, Mr. Otani ([email protected]) or Mr. Madoo ([email protected]).

Reminder for Next Week

This is a reminder that school will be closed next Friday, November 1, in observance of Diwali and All Saints Day. We hope our students, staff, and families enjoy this cultural observance and time to reflect, celebrate, and spend time with loved ones.

Attendance Matters!

We’re pleased to report that we’re making steady progress with student attendance, as our current Chronic Absenteeism (CA) rate stands at 10%. To continue this positive trend, we ask for your support in encouraging your student to attend school regularly when they’re feeling well. Our goal is to meet Virginia State expectations by achieving a CA rate below 15% by year’s end. To keep you informed, you will receive your student’s individual Absentee Report Card at the end of the current marking period on October 31, 2024, as we did last year. We hope these updates can help start meaningful conversations about the importance of consistent attendance for your student’s success.

Have a restful weekend, and whatever you choose to do, make it the very best experience possible!

Kambar

#StandStrong 

FOOD FOR NEIGHBORS PARTNERSHIP WITH SCHS

Hunger is an unwelcome guest this holiday season.

For many families in our school community struggling financially, providing
daily meals is difficult and a special holiday meal can become a source of
worry and stress. Help a local family know the joy of gathering together for a
holiday meal.

We’re partnering with Food For Neighbors to provide $50
grocery store gift cards to our most vulnerable families. Visit the Food For
Neighbors’ website to learn how you can help. Thank you for your generosity.
Learn more here: www.foodforneighbors.org/home/holiday-meals

Impact Aid Survey

Attention FCPS Families!

The Federal Impact Aid Survey is now available to complete online. 

The Federal Impact Aid program provides money to districts that enroll federally connected students. Help FCPS secure funding from the Impact Aid Program by helping us identify: 

• Military families.
• Federally connected families.
• Families living on a military base.

Please complete one form for each child in your household. Remember that only the enrolling parent can fill out the Impact Aid Survey form. 

For families without access to ParentVUE, a paper copy of the form will be sent home with your student starting November 12. Your information will be kept strictly confidential.

Your support will ensure that we receive the resources for which we are eligible.

Step 1: CLICK HERE to be taken to SIS ParentVUE. If you don’t have a SIS ParentVUE account, contact your child’s school for an activation letter. 

Step 2: After you’ve logged into your ParentVue Account, look for the ‘Online Packets’ link at the top of the page. Click ‘Online Packets’.

Step 3: Next, click the ‘Federal Impact Aid Survey’ button on the bottom of the page. This will take you to the Impact Aid Survey for you to complete.

If you have multiple children in Fairfax County Public Schools, please fill out a form for each child. You will know you have completed all of the forms when you get to the final page, and see a green check next to each of their names.

Health Information and Emergency Care Forms

The Health Information Form (HIF) (SS/SE-71) and the Emergency Care Information form (SS/SE-3) provide valuable information regarding student health conditions. These forms are critical in the early identification of students who may need healthcare support in the educational environment. Along with the development of Healthcare Plans (HCP) and Action Plans, the Public Health Nurses (PHNs) utilize the information contained in the HIF to develop teaching strategies for FCPS staff in order to meet the requirements of Regulation 2104 Health Services-School Health-Related Needs.

These forms are required for all students. Enrolling parents/guardians who have a SIS ParentVUE account may submit them electronically by using the Online Verification/Update packet. 

For families without SIS ParentVue accounts, forms can be located in the Back to School packets and on the General Registration Forms page. 

ATTENTION CLASS OF 2025

Victor O’Neill Studios, our school’s official photographer, are excited to see you on the following date(s) for your senior portraits at our school:

Final Session: Monday November 4, and Tuesday November 5, 2024

Don’t miss this final opportunity to be photographed for the yearbook! The required attire for the school’s yearbook pose are traditional Tuxedos and Drapes; provided by them!

In addition to the free yearbook session, they also offer sessions that include casual/personality portraits and Cap and Gown portraits.

Please follow the link below to choose your session type and appointment time: www.vosphoto.com/southcounty

As a friendly reminder, appointments are needed for Senior Portraits.
If you have any questions, please email them at: [email protected]

Please kindly include your Senior’s First and Last Name and “South County Class of 2025” when emailing, for faster assistance.

Thank you!
Your Senior Portraits Team

 

The South County Cross Country team is excited to announce our shoe drive fundraiser! We're collecting gently used shoes to support micro-businesses in developing countries and raise funds for our team.

Every pair of shoes makes a difference! Our goal is to collect 2,500 pairs. If each student donates just one pair, we can easily surpass our goal.

Please join us in making a positive impact on our community and the world!

Thank you for your support!

South County Cross Country Team

Parents of Current 10th graders,

South County will be hosting 4 sessions of PSTD - Partners for Safe Teen Driving this school year.  If your student is currently enrolled in HPE 10 it is mandatory that they attend ONE of the sessions with a parent/guardian.  The session dates are as follows: Jan 9, 2025, Feb. 11, 2025 and April 7, 2025. The presentations are held in the auditorium and begin promptly at 7:00 p.m.  Doors open at 6:45 and lock at 7:00 p.m. – no late arrivals permitted.  

Presentations last approximately 90 minutes.

Any questions please reach out to Maureen Saale- [email protected]

AWARENESS

Disability History and Awareness Month

In Virginia during October, Disability History and Awareness activities provide an opportunity to create greater public awareness for individuals with disabilities, with the goal of full inclusion in our community. 

National Bullying Prevention Month

October is National Bullying Prevention Month. To help develop a common understanding of Bullying, below is the FCPS definition. 

Bullying in Students Rights and Responsibilities is defined as: “Any aggressive and unwanted behavior that is intended to harm, intimidate, or humiliate the victim; involves a real or perceived power imbalance between the aggressor or aggressors and victim; and is repeated over time or causes severe emotional trauma. “Bullying” includes cyberbullying. “Bullying” does not include ordinary teasing, horseplay, argument, or peer conflict.”

For more information on how FCPS handles a bullying situation please visit the FCPS Bullying Prevention and Intervention webpage. Our goal is to ensure all students feel safe and welcome at school. If you have questions and/or concerns about something that is going on at school, please contact the front office so that they can support you and most importantly your student.  

PTSO

South County High School PTSO is partnering with Seasonal Roots, a local online farmers market,  to bring healthy, delicious food to our community, to support local farmers and artisans, and to raise money to support the All Night Grad Party for our seniors!

Seasonal Roots is an online farmers market that delivers “dirt to doorstep”  to families in Maryland and Virginia. Each week the market offers more than 150 items that are all grown and produced locally, sustainably, and ethically. Market items include fruit, vegetables, meat, dairy, baked goods, prepared foods, vegan specialties and more.

As part of this fundraiser for ANGP - new customers can join Seasonal Roots for 50% off the membership fee (a $25 savings!)

PLUS for every new customer who signs up (and places their first order), a $20 donation will be made to South County PTSO! WIN-WIN for everyone!  Be sure to use promotional code SOCOANGP at https://www.seasonalroots.com/socoangp.

ALL ANGP LINKS

Lorton Holiday Extravaganza & Craft Show Publicity

It’s time to spread the word…The South County PTSO is looking for Student and Parent Volunteers to distribute flyers promoting the 19th Annual Lorton Holiday Extravaganza & Craft Show. Please take a moment to check out our Sign-up Genius and see if you can spare an hour or two! All students will receive volunteer credits.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A0949ACAF2BAAFD0-51298810-2024

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter @LortonSCHSCraft or @SCHSCraftShow and Instagram! 

We are excited to announce that parents are now able to enter ONLY full day absences through ParentVue.

Please be sure to specify in the notes the reason for the absence. If you have to report a late arrival, early release or an absence longer than 2 days, please call or email the attendance office at 703-446-1625 or [email protected]. Thank you!

Email: [email protected] Phone: 703-446-1625

OPTION 1- ALL DAY ABSENCE 

OPTION 2- LATE ARRIVAL

OPTION 3- EARLY RELEASE

 

(CALL OR EMAIL FIRST THING IN THE MORNING TO REPORT EARLY RELEASE)

• Handwritten notes are acceptable*
• Call/email/note must come from parent/guardian, NOT the student*
• Please always leave a message, they are checked constantly*

South County ATHLETICS

For the latest news, scores, and schedules

please visit our website.

Athletics & Activities Website: 

https://stallionnation.org/

Important SoCo and FCPS Resources How to Stay In Touch

Please stay in touch with us throughout the year by:

• Keeping your contact information up-to-date
• Visiting the South County High School Website
• Signing up for News You Choose
• Following us on Facebook
• Following us on Twitter
• Following us on Instagram
• Following  SoCo Athletics
• Monitoring your student's progress with SIS Parent Account
• Visiting the South County High School PTSO Web Site
• Joining the South County High School PTSO and attend meetings

• Athletic Boosters SCHS Athletic Boosters Club (SCABC)

• Transportation Office- 703-446-2150

South County High School Quick Links

• School lunch/menu info
• Parent and Student IT Support Portal
• Telephone Parent Info Line (Available in 8 languages)
• FCPS Parent Resource Center
• 2024-25 Standard School Year Calendar
• FCPS Cares-share and submit your story about a South County High School staff member who has gone above and beyond for your child this year. 
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• FCPS Safety Tipline
• Free and Reduced- Price Meals

8501 Silverbrook Road, Lorton, VA 22079 | Main Office: 703.446.1600
Attendance: 703.446.1625 | Web | Twitter

For the latest news, scores, and schedules please visit our SCHS Athletics & Activities website:  https://stallionnation.org

In an effort to provide an optimal game day experience for our fans and guests, below is information on tickets, entry, and general guidelines. 

Tickets

• Adult tickets are $7; student tickets are $5. Children ages 5 and under as well as senior citizens 60+ will be admitted free. *Invitationals & Tournaments could charge up $10 for adults.
• District & Regional tickets: adult tickets $7; student tickets $5.
• No re-entry.
• Purchase your tickets online to avoid the line @ South County HS E-Tix

Seating and Entry

• Gates will open 30 minutes before the start of the contest (60 minutes for Varsity Football).
• Middle School students will not be permitted entry without an adult. 
• Fans can enter through the main gate ONLY. 
• Parents are reminded that the stadium is an inviting place for children to play.  However, it can be very dangerous, so, please always supervise children.

Backpacks, Bags & Other Outside Items

• Purses, diaper bags, and reasonably sized bags are permitted inside the stadium with adults. However, all bags may be subject to search and inspection.
• Students are not permitted to bring bags or backpacks into the stadium.

Student Pick-Up

• Students MUST be picked up within 15 minutes of the end of the event.   

Beverage Policy

• No outside food or drinks are permitted inside the stadium.

Smoking & Tobacco Use

• Smoking and the use of all tobacco products on any Fairfax County Public School campus is prohibited. This prohibition applies to all individuals while on any FCPS campus, including faculty, staff, students, administrators, contractors, and visitors. Cigarettes, e-cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco, snuff, pipes, and chewing tobacco are not permitted.

  Click Here to Purchase Your Stallion Pass! To be eligible to tryout for High School Sports you must complete the following:

 

• Online Registration (click here)

The athlete AND one parent/guardian must review the online Concussion Education presentation, which is part of the online registration process mentioned above. This must be completed once per year.

• Current VHSL Physical Form (click here)

The VHSL form must say “Revised January 2021” in the top right corner of pages 1-4. No other versions of this document will be accepted. Please be sure that this form is completed in it’s entirety. Incomplete forms will be returned to families. Page 3 must be signed and dated (After May 1, 2024) by a physician.

All freshmen are academically eligible for sports in the fall and winter. High School students must pass no less than five credits the previous semester to remain eligible each season.

All required forms and contact information for coaches are available on the Athletics and Activities website https://stallionnation.org/.

 

First Day of Tryouts

Fall Sports – August 5, 2024 Winter Sports – Nov 11th. 2024 Spring Sports – Feb 24, 2025 Cheerleading Boys/Girls Basketball Baseball Cross Country Gymnastics Boys/Girls Crew Dance (Tryouts in June) Boys/Girls Indoor Track Boys/Girls Lacrosse Field Hockey Boys/Girls Swim & Dive Boys/Girls Soccer Football Wrestling Softball Golf (Starts August 1) Sideline Cheer Boys/Girls Outdoor Track Boys/Girls Volleyball   Boys/Girls Tennis

 

If you have a child, grand-child, niece or nephew participating in one or more of our SCHS athletic programs this year, please consider becoming a member of the Athletic Boosters and helping run our non-profit organization with fellow parent-volunteers. 

 

Click Here to Join the South County Athletic Booster Club!

 

Follow us on Social Media:

Instagram

Twitter

Facebook

 

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

Important Upcoming Dates

• 10/21-10/25- National School Bus Safety Week

• 10/24/24- Parade @4pm & Power Puff Games (6:30 & 7:30)

• 10/26/24- 8-11pm- Homecoming Dance 

• 10/31/24- Quarter End- Early Dismissal
• 11/01/24- Diwali/ Dia de los Muertos and All Saints Day (Holiday)
• 11/03-11/04- School Planning and Teach Workday
• 11/04 & 11/05- FINAL Senior Portraits Session
• 01/09/25- 7:00pm- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
• 02/11/25- 7:00pm- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
• 04/07/25 7:00pm- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
• 06/04/25- 7:00pm- Class of 2025 Graduation (Eagle Bank)

Message from Dr. Khoshaba

Greetings, SoCo Nation!

I hope you're fall-ing in love with the cooler temps as they drop outside—because sweater weather is here to stay for a while. This is my favorite time of year, as some of my fondest memories are walking to school and smelling the wood burning from fireplaces. Speaking of memories, here are some great ones from this past week, along with some upcoming events to plan for.

Student and Staff Belonging

Top Honors

One of the most dedicated teams at South County is our Custodians. Recently, they received county-wide recognition for their outstanding hard work over the summer. During July and August, we hosted the Instructional Services team and over 900 teachers for six weeks, placing a tremendous amount of additional work on their shoulders. This recognition is truly well-deserved! While we have nearly 20 Custodians on staff, we were able to celebrate this achievement with the morning crew at a ceremony this week. Great job, Stallions!

Together We Thrive!

I had another Walk and Talk session this week. Students Camille and Cortez walked the halls with me as they shared their perspectives on aspects of school that are going well and areas we can improve. The greatest strength they identified was the quality of instruction from our staff. Cortez identified Ms. McClinton as being an especially noteworthy teacher, highlighting how she regularly embodies the core value of Curiosity each day. Meanwhile, Camille selected Ms. Ruddy because she embodies Trust every day. I couldn’t agree more with these students’ opinions.

High Quality Instruction

This week, I had the pleasure of observing three truly exceptional classes that showcased both the talent of our teachers and the engagement of our students. In Ms. Wakim’s French 2 class, the students were absolutely enchanté as they fluently navigated French dialogue, making language learning look effortless and magnifique! Over in Ms. Engels’ AP Chemistry class, it was clear that she had a positive reaction from her students, as they dove into complex experiments with curiosity and precision—chemical connections at their finest. And finally, Ms. Swift’s Orchestra was in perfect harmony, where every note played by her students was swiftly executed, creating a symphony of success. Each of these classes was a joy to witness, and our students are thriving under such inspiring instruction.

School Culture

Our school culture section of the newsletter is always packed with so many wonderful aspects of our SoCo DNA. This week is no different!

Orchestrating Success!

A special shout-out to two students who earned the Senior Regional Orchestra distinction. Congratulations to Junhee Sin and Sarah Tracy, as they have now qualified to audition for All-State Orchestra. Bravo, students!

Celebrating Heritage

I’d also like to give special recognition to all teachers who participated in our Hispanic Month Door Decorating Contest. We had three categories of winners. Each of them brought creativity and culture to life through your fantastic designs.

For Most Creative, Ms. Hansen’s students crafted a masterpiece of imagination, combining bold designs and innovative elements to create a truly one-of-a-kind display.

 

Our Fan Favorite award went to Ms. Hill’s class, whose vibrant visuals and captivating colors won the judge’s hearts with flair and festivity.

 

And lastly, congratulations to Ms. Kimble’s class for winning Best Use of Theme. Their door showcased thoughtful threads of history and heritage, beautifully weaving together elements that celebrated the spirit of Hispanic culture.

 

On the Right Track!

A special thank you is extended to our PTSO. They heard of a need in our school and responded. We had four unserviceable treadmills in our gym for some time, so our plan has been to remove and replace them with operating machines. Our PTSO came to the rescue, and for the first time in several years, our students can walk, jog, and run on new equipment! Thank you for your continued support in all things SoCo, PTSO!

College Bound!

SCHS’s College Partnership Program students participated in the annual Alcanza College Fair at George Mason University on Wednesday, October 17th. This event helped 42 SCHS students develop their post-secondary education plans. Over 150 colleges/universities and the U.S. Armed Services were in attendance. I know each of our students enjoyed this experience.

A Field Day to Remember: Senior Night Victory!

Congratulations to our amazing Field Hockey team on a fantastic Senior Night, where they truly showed their dedication and teamwork by defeating Robinson 3 to 1! It was a night filled with pride and celebration as we honored our seniors for their hard work and commitment throughout the season. Here’s to many more victories on and off the field!

 

Staff Spotlight

This week’s Staff Spotlight shines brightly on Erin Ruddy, our dedicated Yoga teacher who has significantly grown the program from just 2 sections three years ago to an impressive 6 full sections today, complete with a waiting list of eager students! With 7 years of teaching experience, including 4 wonderful years here at South County High, Erin has cultivated a love for yoga among her students, fostering both physical and mental well-being. Originally from New Jersey, she also enjoys hitting the slopes with her husband during the winter months, combining her passion for fitness with her love of adventure. Thank you, Erin, for your incredible contributions to our school community and for inspiring so many students to embrace the benefits of yoga!

 

Choice Day Highlights

Our student body is a vibrant tapestry of diverse interests. I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our Culture Champions team— led by Ms. Hill, Mr. Kingston, and Mrs. Tolan—for weaving together all the intricate details of our events.

By popular demand, we kicked off our first of four Choice Day activities during Advisory time, featuring exciting options like Zumba, Line Dancing, and much more! This initiative truly allows our students to express themselves and explore new passions.

Club Corner

In only its second year, our Get2Green (G2G) Club is the environmental stewardship program for FCPS. It offers guidance and resources for classes, implementing hands-on environmental action in our school and community. G2G engages in student-driven activities such as reducing waste, conserving energy, and tending edible gardens. If you have any questions or suggestions, please send them to G2G sponsors Ms. Morrison ([email protected]) and Mr. Madoo ([email protected]).

Spotlight: Days of Joy

I often meet with students from various organizations to help them work through projects or ideas. This week I welcomed the opportunity to work with two of our DECA students, Kyla and Meena. They are designing our outdoor Movie Night, which is coming soon in either November or December. I was most impressed with their abilities to plan, organize, and (soon) execute their ideas to enhance our school spirit and culture. Great job, DECA!

 

As we embrace the beauty of the new Fall weather, I wish everyone a wonderful weekend filled with fresh air and cozy moments. Remember to Stand Strong in all that you do and enjoy the vibrant colors and crisp temperatures. Happy Fall!

Warm Wishes,

Kambar

#StandStrong

Health Information and Emergency Care Forms

The Health Information Form (HIF) (SS/SE-71) and the Emergency Care Information form (SS/SE-3) provide valuable information regarding student health conditions. These forms are critical in the early identification of students who may need healthcare support in the educational environment. Along with the development of Healthcare Plans (HCP) and Action Plans, the Public Health Nurses (PHNs) utilize the information contained in the HIF to develop teaching strategies for FCPS staff in order to meet the requirements of Regulation 2104 Health Services-School Health-Related Needs.

These forms are required for all students. Enrolling parents/guardians who have a SIS ParentVUE account may submit them electronically by using the Online Verification/Update packet. 

For families without SIS ParentVue accounts, forms can be located in the Back to School packets and on the General Registration Forms page. 

ATTENTION CLASS OF 2025

Victor O’Neill Studios, our school’s official photographer, are excited to see you on the following date(s) for your senior portraits at our school:

Final Session: Monday November 4, and Tuesday November 5, 2024

Don’t miss this final opportunity to be photographed for the yearbook! The required attire for the school’s yearbook pose are traditional Tuxedos and Drapes; provided by them!

In addition to the free yearbook session, they also offer sessions that include casual/personality portraits and Cap and Gown portraits.

Please follow the link below to choose your session type and appointment time: www.vosphoto.com/southcounty

As a friendly reminder, appointments are needed for Senior Portraits.
If you have any questions, please email them at: [email protected]

Please kindly include your Senior’s First and Last Name and “South County Class of 2025” when emailing, for faster assistance.

Thank you!
Your Senior Portraits Team

Homecoming is fast approaching. Homecoming Week will be full of fun events and SCHS Leadership is looking for help from our amazing community!  Leadership has an amazon wish list (items will be sent to SCHS) to help with some of the decorations for the dance as well as a sign-up genius to help with other Homecoming events. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Amazon Wishlist: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/5R6D2CV6MINP?ref_=wl_share

Sign-Up Genius: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C094CA9AA2FA0FD0-52027125-homecoming

Oct 21-25: Spirit Week

Oct 24: Parade @4pm & Power Puff Games (6:30 & 7:30)

Oct 25: Football Game

Oct 26: Homecoming Dance 8-11pm

 

The South County Cross Country team is excited to announce our shoe drive fundraiser! We're collecting gently used shoes to support micro-businesses in developing countries and raise funds for our team.

Every pair of shoes makes a difference! Our goal is to collect 2,500 pairs. If each student donates just one pair, we can easily surpass our goal.

Please join us in making a positive impact on our community and the world!

Thank you for your support!

South County Cross Country Team

Parents of Current 10th graders,

South County will be hosting 4 sessions of PSTD - Partners for Safe Teen Driving this school year.  If your student is currently enrolled in HPE 10 it is mandatory that they attend ONE of the sessions with a parent/guardian.  The session dates are as follows: Jan 9, 2025, Feb. 11, 2025 and April 7, 2025. The presentations are held in the auditorium and begin promptly at 7:00 p.m.  Doors open at 6:45 and lock at 7:00 p.m. – no late arrivals permitted.  

Presentations last approximately 90 minutes.

Any questions please reach out to Maureen Saale- [email protected]

AWARENESS

Disability History and Awareness Month

In Virginia during October, Disability History and Awareness activities provide an opportunity to create greater public awareness for individuals with disabilities, with the goal of full inclusion in our community. 

National Bullying Prevention Month

October is National Bullying Prevention Month. To help develop a common understanding of Bullying, below is the FCPS definition. 

Bullying in Students Rights and Responsibilities is defined as: “Any aggressive and unwanted behavior that is intended to harm, intimidate, or humiliate the victim; involves a real or perceived power imbalance between the aggressor or aggressors and victim; and is repeated over time or causes severe emotional trauma. “Bullying” includes cyberbullying. “Bullying” does not include ordinary teasing, horseplay, argument, or peer conflict.”

For more information on how FCPS handles a bullying situation please visit the FCPS Bullying Prevention and Intervention webpage. Our goal is to ensure all students feel safe and welcome at school. If you have questions and/or concerns about something that is going on at school, please contact the front office so that they can support you and most importantly your student.  

PTSO

South County High School PTSO is partnering with Seasonal Roots, a local online farmers market,  to bring healthy, delicious food to our community, to support local farmers and artisans, and to raise money to support the All Night Grad Party for our seniors!

Seasonal Roots is an online farmers market that delivers “dirt to doorstep”  to families in Maryland and Virginia. Each week the market offers more than 150 items that are all grown and produced locally, sustainably, and ethically. Market items include fruit, vegetables, meat, dairy, baked goods, prepared foods, vegan specialties and more.

As part of this fundraiser for ANGP - new customers can join Seasonal Roots for 50% off the membership fee (a $25 savings!)

PLUS for every new customer who signs up (and places their first order), a $20 donation will be made to South County PTSO! WIN-WIN for everyone!  Be sure to use promotional code SOCOANGP at https://www.seasonalroots.com/socoangp.

ALL ANGP LINKS

Lorton Holiday Extravaganza & Craft Show Publicity

It’s time to spread the word…The South County PTSO is looking for Student and Parent Volunteers to distribute flyers promoting the 19th Annual Lorton Holiday Extravaganza & Craft Show. Please take a moment to check out our Sign-up Genius and see if you can spare an hour or two! All students will receive volunteer credits.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A0949ACAF2BAAFD0-51298810-2024

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter @LortonSCHSCraft or @SCHSCraftShow and Instagram! 

We are excited to announce that parents are now able to enter ONLY full day absences through ParentVue.

Please be sure to specify in the notes the reason for the absence. If you have to report a late arrival, early release or an absence longer than 2 days, please call or email the attendance office at 703-446-1625 or [email protected]. Thank you!

Email: [email protected] Phone: 703-446-1625

OPTION 1- ALL DAY ABSENCE 

OPTION 2- LATE ARRIVAL

OPTION 3- EARLY RELEASE

 

(CALL OR EMAIL FIRST THING IN THE MORNING TO REPORT EARLY RELEASE)

• Handwritten notes are acceptable*
• Call/email/note must come from parent/guardian, NOT the student*
• Please always leave a message, they are checked constantly*

South County ATHLETICS

For the latest news, scores, and schedules

please visit our website.

Athletics & Activities Website: 

https://stallionnation.org/

Important SoCo and FCPS Resources How to Stay In Touch

Please stay in touch with us throughout the year by:

• Keeping your contact information up-to-date
• Visiting the South County High School Website
• Signing up for News You Choose
• Following us on Facebook
• Following us on Twitter
• Following us on Instagram
• Following  SoCo Athletics
• Monitoring your student's progress with SIS Parent Account
• Visiting the South County High School PTSO Web Site
• Joining the South County High School PTSO and attend meetings

• Athletic Boosters SCHS Athletic Boosters Club (SCABC)

• Transportation Office- 703-446-2150

South County High School Quick Links

• School lunch/menu info
• Parent and Student IT Support Portal
• Telephone Parent Info Line (Available in 8 languages)
• FCPS Parent Resource Center
• 2024-25 Standard School Year Calendar
• FCPS Cares-share and submit your story about a South County High School staff member who has gone above and beyond for your child this year. 
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• FCPS Safety Tipline
• Free and Reduced- Price Meals

8501 Silverbrook Road, Lorton, VA 22079 | Main Office: 703.446.1600
Attendance: 703.446.1625 | Web | Twitter

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

Important Upcoming Dates

• 10/14-10/18- National School Lunch Week
• 10/14-10/18- Digital Citizenship Week
• 10/14/24- Indigenous Peoples' Day (Staff Development)
• 10/17/24- 7:00pm- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
• 10/21-10/25- National School Bus Safety Week

• 10/26/24- 8-11pm- Homecoming Dance 

• 10/31/24- Quarter End- Early Dismissal
• 11/01/24- Diwali/ Dia de los Muertos and All Saints Day (Holiday)
• 11/03-11/04- School Planning and Teach Workday
• 11/04 & 11/05- FINAL Senior Portraits Session
• 01/09/25- 7:00pm- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
• 02/11/25- 7:00pm- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
• 04/07/25 7:00pm- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
• 06/04/25- 7:00pm- Class of 2025 Graduation (Eagle Bank)

Message from Dr. Khoshaba

Greetings SoCo Family,

I hope everyone is doing well as we gear up for this seasonal change. Yes, the weather may be cool outside, but we’re making warm memories inside the walls of Stallion Nation! Let’s get to this week’s reflections.

Student and Staff Belonging

As one of our three focal points for the year, creating a sense of belonging at school is something that we have been intentional about this year. Celebrating the good times is important to help validate when any of us are stepping out of our comfort zone. Nothing speaks to this more than when I witnessed one of our seniors, Andrew, perform a monologue to start our faculty meeting this past Monday. I appreciate him and his talents, and he’s a great reminder about why we’re all here to begin with: our students!

 

School Culture

Another pillar we are focused on this year is the culture of our school.  There are several aspects to school culture, and this week I experienced several of them.

For example, I was pleased to attend the International Night club meeting this past week. Seeing so many students in attendance was fantastic, and even better was watching how this meeting was 100% student led. We have some very gifted student leaders at SoCo, and what they’re planning for the February 15 I-Night events is going to surely impress our community!

 

We also had an exceptional Band concert this week, but it wasn’t a traditional experience. This show was unique in that we combined forces and joined Hayfield Secondary School. At the combined concert, the support among our band students truly struck a chord. Whether it was cheering for each other’s performances or offering words of encouragement backstage, their harmony as a group was unmistakable. It was clear that together, they made beautiful music—both on and off the stage!

 

We also had a very successful night of Girls Volleyball this week, as we beat Fairfax High School in a tie-breaking game five! Our team served up an amazing performance and showed that with teamwork and determination, you can set your sights on greatness. Keep spiking those goals!

 

Strength and Spirit: Securing Our School with a Bold New Look

I'm happy to share some upcoming changes with you to our school's safety and appearance. First, our new vestibule started being built this week. This is a construction project that is happening in all FCPS schools, and these new set of doors will add another layer of safety to our school. More information will be forthcoming after the full installation.

 

Second, and as a continuation from last June's rebranding process we went through, we have some new murals coming. I’d like to thank Josten’s who is sponsoring these murals for us as we continue enhancing our school spirit.

This one will be at door 15:

This one will be on a wall inside our school:

 

I look forward to sharing more updates with you in the near future.

Parking Lot Etiquette: A Reminder for All Families

As we move further into the school year, I’d like to remind everyone about the importance of respecting our designated student parking spaces. These spots are assigned and paid for by our student drivers, and it’s essential that they have access to their spaces without any inconvenience.

Parents using the parking lot for drop-offs should avoid parking in these reserved spots, even briefly, to ensure our student drivers can park without issue. We encourage everyone to use the designated Kiss and Ride locations for drop-offs to help traffic flow smoothly and ensure the safety and convenience of all.

Thank you for your cooperation in making our parking lot a more organized and stress-free space for everyone!

Staff Spotlight

This week I’m thrilled to highlight a teacher who oversees one of our most popular programs: Culinary Arts! Mr. David Long has been a teacher for 13 years, all of which have been right here in Stallion Country. Since his earliest memories, Mr. Long has always wanted to be a chef, and in combination with his love for teaching, being a Culinary Arts teacher has been a dream occupation for him. When he’s not at work, Mr. Long enjoys boating, traveling, and (of course!) cooking! We appreciate all the gifts and talents that Mr. Long brings to SoCo!

 

Sole Mission: Stepping Up for Global Change

The South County Cross Country team is excited to announce their shoe drive fundraiser! They are collecting gently used shoes to support micro-businesses in developing countries and raise funds for their team. Every pair of shoes makes a difference! Their goal is to collect 2,500 pairs. If each student donates just one pair, they can easily surpass our goal. We have a box in the main office for collections. Please join them in making a positive impact on our community and the world!

Here are just a few pics of their progress thus far:

Club Corner

Our Korean Student Association (KSA) is an ethnic club meant for both Korean and non-Korean students alike who are interested in finding community through the celebration of Korean culture, language, and traditions. Through KSA, students all around the school are able to enjoy Korean cuisine, K-pop dance performances, and Korean game nights that allow for others to appreciate and explore Korean culture. Through this club, we hope to spread cultural awareness of South Korea, and promote community through our fun activities. The sponsor is Mr. Mason, who can be reached for questions at [email protected]

Days of Joy

As we continue with our Days of Joys initiative this year, I struggle with picking just one memory of the past week. There are just so many wonderful things happening at SoCo! As I reflect on the last several days, Ms. Huffman’s Entrepreneurship classes truly stand out. The students truly nailed the pitch with their presentations on improving SoCo merchandise sales! Their creative ideas and engaging delivery showed that they really know how to sell a vision. From eye-catching designs to targeted marketing strategies, they presented solutions that are sure to boost our brand and school spirit. Well done, Stallions!

 

As we move forward, let’s remember the importance of standing strong and supporting each other. Together, we can create a community that fosters strength and solidarity, ensuring that every student feels valued and empowered. Let’s continue to build a brighter future by standing united in our mission to uplift and inspire one another!

Have a restful weekend.

 

Kambar

#StandStrong

ATTENTION CLASS OF 2025

Victor O’Neill Studios, our school’s official photographer, are excited to see you on the following date(s) for your senior portraits at our school:

Final Session: Monday November 4, and Tuesday November 5, 2024

Don’t miss this final opportunity to be photographed for the yearbook! The required attire for the school’s yearbook pose are traditional Tuxedos and Drapes; provided by them!

In addition to the free yearbook session, they also offer sessions that include casual/personality portraits and Cap and Gown portraits.

Please follow the link below to choose your session type and appointment time: www.vosphoto.com/southcounty

As a friendly reminder, appointments are needed for Senior Portraits.
If you have any questions, please email them at: [email protected]

Please kindly include your Senior’s First and Last Name and “South County Class of 2025” when emailing, for faster assistance.

Thank you!
Your Senior Portraits Team

 

Homecoming is fast approaching. Homecoming Week will be full of fun events and SCHS Leadership is looking for help from our amazing community!  Leadership has an amazon wish list (items will be sent to SCHS) to help with some of the decorations for the dance as well as a sign-up genius to help with other Homecoming events. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Amazon Wishlist: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/5R6D2CV6MINP?ref_=wl_share

Sign-Up Genius: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C094CA9AA2FA0FD0-52027125-homecoming

Oct 21-25: Spirit Week

Oct 24: Parade @4pm & Power Puff Games (6:30 & 7:30)

Oct 25: Football Game

Oct 26: Homecoming Dance 8-11pm

 

The South County Cross Country team is excited to announce our shoe drive fundraiser! We're collecting gently used shoes to support micro-businesses in developing countries and raise funds for our team.

Every pair of shoes makes a difference! Our goal is to collect 2,500 pairs. If each student donates just one pair, we can easily surpass our goal.

Please join us in making a positive impact on our community and the world!

Thank you for your support!

South County Cross Country Team

Parents of Current 10th graders,

South County will be hosting 4 sessions of PSTD - Partners for Safe Teen Driving this school year.  If your student is currently enrolled in HPE 10 it is mandatory that they attend ONE of the sessions with a parent/guardian.  The session dates are as follows:   Oct 17, 2024, Jan 9, 2025, Feb. 11, 2025 and April 7, 2025. The presentations are held in the auditorium and begin promptly at 7:00 p.m.  Doors open at 6:45 and lock at 7:00 p.m. – no late arrivals permitted.  

Presentations last approximately 90 minutes.

Any questions please reach out to Maureen Saale- [email protected]

AWARENESS

Disability History and Awareness Month

In Virginia during October, Disability History and Awareness activities provide an opportunity to create greater public awareness for individuals with disabilities, with the goal of full inclusion in our community. 

National Hispanic Heritage Month

From September 15 to October 15, FCPS recognizes and celebrates the histories and cultures of the members of our community who trace their heritage to Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. Learn more about National Hispanic Heritage Month. 

National Bullying Prevention Month

October is National Bullying Prevention Month. To help develop a common understanding of Bullying, below is the FCPS definition. 

Bullying in Students Rights and Responsibilities is defined as: “Any aggressive and unwanted behavior that is intended to harm, intimidate, or humiliate the victim; involves a real or perceived power imbalance between the aggressor or aggressors and victim; and is repeated over time or causes severe emotional trauma. “Bullying” includes cyberbullying. “Bullying” does not include ordinary teasing, horseplay, argument, or peer conflict.”

For more information on how FCPS handles a bullying situation please visit the FCPS Bullying Prevention and Intervention webpage. Our goal is to ensure all students feel safe and welcome at school. If you have questions and/or concerns about something that is going on at school, please contact the front office so that they can support you and most importantly your student.  

PTSO

South County High School PTSO is partnering with Seasonal Roots, a local online farmers market,  to bring healthy, delicious food to our community, to support local farmers and artisans, and to raise money to support the All Night Grad Party for our seniors!

Seasonal Roots is an online farmers market that delivers “dirt to doorstep”  to families in Maryland and Virginia. Each week the market offers more than 150 items that are all grown and produced locally, sustainably, and ethically. Market items include fruit, vegetables, meat, dairy, baked goods, prepared foods, vegan specialties and more.

As part of this fundraiser for ANGP - new customers can join Seasonal Roots for 50% off the membership fee (a $25 savings!)

PLUS for every new customer who signs up (and places their first order), a $20 donation will be made to South County PTSO! WIN-WIN for everyone!  Be sure to use promotional code SOCOANGP at https://www.seasonalroots.com/socoangp.

ALL ANGP LINKS

We are excited to announce that parents are now able to enter ONLY full day absences through ParentVue.

Please be sure to specify in the notes the reason for the absence. If you have to report a late arrival, early release or an absence longer than 2 days, please call or email the attendance office at 703-446-1625 or [email protected]. Thank you!

Email: [email protected] Phone: 703-446-1625

OPTION 1- ALL DAY ABSENCE 

OPTION 2- LATE ARRIVAL

OPTION 3- EARLY RELEASE

 

(CALL OR EMAIL FIRST THING IN THE MORNING TO REPORT EARLY RELEASE)

• Handwritten notes are acceptable*
• Call/email/note must come from parent/guardian, NOT the student*
• Please always leave a message, they are checked constantly*

South County ATHLETICS

For the latest news, scores, and schedules

please visit our website.

Athletics & Activities Website: 

https://stallionnation.org/

Important SoCo and FCPS Resources How to Stay In Touch

Please stay in touch with us throughout the year by:

• Keeping your contact information up-to-date
• Visiting the South County High School Website
• Signing up for News You Choose
• Following us on Facebook
• Following us on Twitter
• Following us on Instagram
• Following  SoCo Athletics
• Monitoring your student's progress with SIS Parent Account
• Visiting the South County High School PTSO Web Site
• Joining the South County High School PTSO and attend meetings

• Athletic Boosters SCHS Athletic Boosters Club (SCABC)

• Transportation Office- 703-446-2150

South County High School Quick Links

• School lunch/menu info
• Parent and Student IT Support Portal
• Telephone Parent Info Line (Available in 8 languages)
• FCPS Parent Resource Center
• 2024-25 Standard School Year Calendar
• FCPS Cares-share and submit your story about a South County High School staff member who has gone above and beyond for your child this year. 
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• FCPS Safety Tipline
• Free and Reduced- Price Meals

8501 Silverbrook Road, Lorton, VA 22079 | Main Office: 703.446.1600
Attendance: 703.446.1625 | Web | Twitter

For the latest news, scores, and schedules please visit our SCHS Athletics & Activities website:  https://stallionnation.org

In an effort to provide an optimal game day experience for our fans and guests, below is information on tickets, entry, and general guidelines. 

Tickets

• Adult tickets are $7; student tickets are $5. Children ages 5 and under as well as senior citizens 60+ will be admitted free. *Invitationals & Tournaments could charge up $10 for adults.
• District & Regional tickets: adult tickets $7; student tickets $5.
• No re-entry.
• Purchase your tickets online to avoid the line @ South County HS E-Tix

Seating and Entry

• Gates will open 30 minutes before the start of the contest (60 minutes for Varsity Football).
• Middle School students will not be permitted entry without an adult. 
• Fans can enter through the main gate ONLY. 
• Parents are reminded that the stadium is an inviting place for children to play.  However, it can be very dangerous, so, please always supervise children.

Backpacks, Bags & Other Outside Items

• Purses, diaper bags, and reasonably sized bags are permitted inside the stadium with adults. However, all bags may be subject to search and inspection.
• Students are not permitted to bring bags or backpacks into the stadium.

Student Pick-Up

• Students MUST be picked up within 15 minutes of the end of the event.   

Beverage Policy

• No outside food or drinks are permitted inside the stadium.

Smoking & Tobacco Use

• Smoking and the use of all tobacco products on any Fairfax County Public School campus is prohibited. This prohibition applies to all individuals while on any FCPS campus, including faculty, staff, students, administrators, contractors, and visitors. Cigarettes, e-cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco, snuff, pipes, and chewing tobacco are not permitted.

  Click Here to Purchase Your Stallion Pass! To be eligible to tryout for High School Sports you must complete the following:

 

• Online Registration (click here)

The athlete AND one parent/guardian must review the online Concussion Education presentation, which is part of the online registration process mentioned above. This must be completed once per year.

• Current VHSL Physical Form (click here)

The VHSL form must say “Revised January 2021” in the top right corner of pages 1-4. No other versions of this document will be accepted. Please be sure that this form is completed in it’s entirety. Incomplete forms will be returned to families. Page 3 must be signed and dated (After May 1, 2024) by a physician.

All freshmen are academically eligible for sports in the fall and winter. High School students must pass no less than five credits the previous semester to remain eligible each season.

All required forms and contact information for coaches are available on the Athletics and Activities website https://stallionnation.org/.

 

First Day of Tryouts

Fall Sports – August 5, 2024 Winter Sports – Nov 11th. 2024 Spring Sports – Feb 24, 2025 Cheerleading Boys/Girls Basketball Baseball Cross Country Gymnastics Boys/Girls Crew Dance (Tryouts in June) Boys/Girls Indoor Track Boys/Girls Lacrosse Field Hockey Boys/Girls Swim & Dive Boys/Girls Soccer Football Wrestling Softball Golf (Starts August 1) Sideline Cheer Boys/Girls Outdoor Track Boys/Girls Volleyball   Boys/Girls Tennis

 

If you have a child, grand-child, niece or nephew participating in one or more of our SCHS athletic programs this year, please consider becoming a member of the Athletic Boosters and helping run our non-profit organization with fellow parent-volunteers. 

 

Click Here to Join the South County Athletic Booster Club!

 

Follow us on Social Media:

Instagram

Twitter

Facebook

 

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

Important Upcoming Dates

• 10/06/24- National Coaches Day
• 10/09/24- 12th Graders SAT School Day
• 10/09/24- Walk and Roll to School Day
• 10/09/24- 4:00-8:00PM-SCHS Theatre Boosters- Taco Rock 
• 10/10-10/11- Hearing and Vision Screening for 10th Graders
• 10/11/24- Yom Kippur
• 10/12/24- Ombuds Day
• 10/14-10/18- National School Lunch Week
• 10/14-10/18- Digital Citizenship Week
• 10/14/24- Indigenous Peoples' Day (Staff Development)
• 10/17/24- 7:00pm- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
• 10/21-10/25- National School Bus Safety Week
• 10/31/24- Quarter End- Early Dismissal
• 11/01/24- Diwali/ Dia de los Muertos and All Saints Day (Holiday)
• 11/03-11/04- School Planning and Teach Workday
• 01/09/25- 7:00pm- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
• 02/11/25- 7:00pm- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
• 04/07/25 7:00pm- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
• 06/04/25- 7:00pm- Class of 2025 Graduation (Eagle Bank)

FCPS will be running the PSAT/ NMSQT and the SAT School Day test on Wednesday, October 9.  October 9 is a 2-hour early release day for high schools and secondary schools.

• Students receiving Community B special education services receive a normal instructional program with a two-hour early release. 
• Ninth grade students will have an unscheduled school day.  Grade 9 students do NOT attend school on October 9.
• The PSAT/NMSQT will be offered to all students in grades 10 and 11 at no cost. No additional registration is necessary. The PSAT/NMSQT provides an opportunity to measure student readiness for college and provides practice for the SAT college entrance exam. Students will be dismissed at the two-hour early release time of 12:55 PM.
• Grade 12 students interested in taking the SAT School Day were required to fill out the Intent to Participate Google form sent to families in August and September. Students who completed the form received a confirmation email and room assignment on September 20th.  SAT School Day testers will be released upon the completion of testing, at approximately 11:15 AM.
• Both tests are digital. All students testing must bring their FCPS-issued Chromebook with them on October 9.

• Grade 12 students choosing not to take the SAT will have an unscheduled school day and do NOT attend school on October 9.
• Room assignment reminders for all test takers will be emailed to students’ @fcpsschools.net accounts on Monday, October 7.
• If you have any additional questions, please contact Chris Bird, SCHS Test Coordinator, at [email protected]

In the coming, weeks, SoCo will have a vestibule built as part of the FCPS initiative to keep all school as safe as possible.

More information will be forthcoming as it's available.

Message from Dr. Khoshaba

Greetings, SoCo Nation!

I hope everyone had a wonderful week. I’ve been out of the building, so this week’s edition will be brief but still reflective of some of the great things happening within our school community. Let’s get to them!

Did you know?

Happy World Smile Day, celebrated on October 4 each year. Did you know it takes fewer muscles to smile than frown? In fact, smiling can have many health benefits, including:

• Releasing endorphins: Smiling can release endorphins, which can reduce pain and relieve stress.
• Improving mood: Smiling can make you feel happier, even if you're faking it.
• Reducing risk of cancer: Smiling can reduce your risk of getting cancer by helping you manage stress.
• Becoming more resilient: Smiling can help you become more resilient against illnesses by helping you manage stress. 

So when in doubt, put a smile on your face! You just may feel better.

Student Belonging

Last Saturday, our JV Cheerleading team competed in a athletically competitive tournament here at SoCo. While they may not have taken home the trophy this time, we are incredibly proud of their spirit, skill, and strength throughout the competition. Their dedication and determination were on full display, and they truly embodied the heart of Stallion pride.

Every leap, chant, and cheer showcased their passion and perseverance, and we know they gave it their all. Please join me in congratulating them on their outstanding effort and for representing South County with confidence and class.

Let’s continue to cheer them on as they prepare for future successes!

Club Corner

This week’s featured club is our Muslim Student Association (MSA). This organization is a welcoming space for students to learn about and celebrate Islam while fostering a sense of unity and community. They meet monthly after school to engage in discussions, activities, and plan meaningful events. Some of our highlight events include a bonfire, iftar potlucks during Ramadan, and participation in the Muslim Inter-Scholastic Tournament (MIST). Additionally, a prayer room is available during school hours, and Jummah prayer is held there every Friday. Students can fill out a permission form located in the main office, on our Schoology group, or in their sponsor’s classroom, Dr. Saidi. MSA provides a comfortable space to meet fellow Muslim students and practice Islam together in a supportive, inclusive environment. If you have any questions, feel free to email Dr. Saidi at [email protected].

 

Have a great weekend!

Kambar  

#StandStrong

 

Homecoming is fast approaching. Homecoming Week will be full of fun events and SCHS Leadership is looking for help from our amazing community!  Leadership has an amazon wish list (items will be sent to SCHS) to help with some of the decorations for the dance as well as a sign-up genius to help with other Homecoming events. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Amazon Wishlist: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/5R6D2CV6MINP?ref_=wl_share

Sign-Up Genius: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C094CA9AA2FA0FD0-52027125-homecoming

Oct 21-25: Spirit Week

Oct 24: Parade @4pm & Power Puff Games (6:30 & 7:30)

Oct 25: Football Game

Oct 26: Homecoming Dance 8-11pm

 

The South County Cross Country team is excited to announce our shoe drive fundraiser! We're collecting gently used shoes to support micro-businesses in developing countries and raise funds for our team.

Every pair of shoes makes a difference! Our goal is to collect 2,500 pairs. If each student donates just one pair, we can easily surpass our goal.

Please join us in making a positive impact on our community and the world!

Thank you for your support!

South County Cross Country Team

 

The SCHS Theatre Boosters are hosting a restaurant night at Taco Rock in Lorton on Wednesday 10/9. The Theatre Boosters will receive 10% of the proceeds for everyone who orders at Taco Rock on Wednesday the 9th between 4-8pm and turns in their receipts to the bar. Taco Rock is located at 

9021 White Spruce Way Lorton VA near the new Lidl in the Liberty Market area. 

VDOE required hearing/vision screenings for all 10th graders

Parents/Guardians of 10th grade students who wear glasses and/or contacts – Please have your students bring their glasses with them (or ensure they have their contacts in) to school October 10 and 11, 2024. We will be conducting the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) required hearing and vision screening for all 10th grade students.

Parents of Current 10th graders,

South County will be hosting 4 sessions of PSTD - Partners for Safe Teen Driving this school year.  If your student is currently enrolled in HPE 10 it is mandatory that they attend ONE of the sessions with a parent/guardian.  The session dates are as follows:   Oct 17, 2024, Jan 9, 2025, Feb. 11, 2025 and April 7, 2025. The presentations are held in the auditorium and begin promptly at 7:00 p.m.  Doors open at 6:45 and lock at 7:00 p.m. – no late arrivals permitted.  

Presentations last approximately 90 minutes.

Any questions please reach out to Maureen Saale- [email protected]

AWARENESS

Disability History and Awareness Month

In Virginia during October, Disability History and Awareness activities provide an opportunity to create greater public awareness for individuals with disabilities, with the goal of full inclusion in our community. 

National Hispanic Heritage Month

From September 15 to October 15, FCPS recognizes and celebrates the histories and cultures of the members of our community who trace their heritage to Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. Learn more about National Hispanic Heritage Month. 

National Bullying Prevention Month

October is National Bullying Prevention Month. To help develop a common understanding of Bullying, below is the FCPS definition. 

Bullying in Students Rights and Responsibilities is defined as: “Any aggressive and unwanted behavior that is intended to harm, intimidate, or humiliate the victim; involves a real or perceived power imbalance between the aggressor or aggressors and victim; and is repeated over time or causes severe emotional trauma. “Bullying” includes cyberbullying. “Bullying” does not include ordinary teasing, horseplay, argument, or peer conflict.”

For more information on how FCPS handles a bullying situation please visit the FCPS Bullying Prevention and Intervention webpage. Our goal is to ensure all students feel safe and welcome at school. If you have questions and/or concerns about something that is going on at school, please contact the front office so that they can support you and most importantly your student.  

PTSO

South County High School PTSO is partnering with Seasonal Roots, a local online farmers market,  to bring healthy, delicious food to our community, to support local farmers and artisans, and to raise money to support the All Night Grad Party for our seniors!

Seasonal Roots is an online farmers market that delivers “dirt to doorstep”  to families in Maryland and Virginia. Each week the market offers more than 150 items that are all grown and produced locally, sustainably, and ethically. Market items include fruit, vegetables, meat, dairy, baked goods, prepared foods, vegan specialties and more.

As part of this fundraiser for ANGP - new customers can join Seasonal Roots for 50% off the membership fee (a $25 savings!)

PLUS for every new customer who signs up (and places their first order), a $20 donation will be made to South County PTSO! WIN-WIN for everyone!  Be sure to use promotional code SOCOANGP at https://www.seasonalroots.com/socoangp.

ALL ANGP LINKS

We are excited to announce that parents are now able to enter ONLY full day absences through ParentVue.

Please be sure to specify in the notes the reason for the absence. If you have to report a late arrival, early release or an absence longer than 2 days, please call or email the attendance office at 703-446-1625 or [email protected]. Thank you!

Email: [email protected] Phone: 703-446-1625

OPTION 1- ALL DAY ABSENCE 

OPTION 2- LATE ARRIVAL

OPTION 3- EARLY RELEASE

 

(CALL OR EMAIL FIRST THING IN THE MORNING TO REPORT EARLY RELEASE)

• Handwritten notes are acceptable*
• Call/email/note must come from parent/guardian, NOT the student*
• Please always leave a message, they are checked constantly*

South County ATHLETICS

For the latest news, scores, and schedules

please visit our website.

Athletics & Activities Website: 

https://stallionnation.org/

Important SoCo and FCPS Resources How to Stay In Touch

Please stay in touch with us throughout the year by:

• Keeping your contact information up-to-date
• Visiting the South County High School Website
• Signing up for News You Choose
• Following us on Facebook
• Following us on Twitter
• Following us on Instagram
• Following  SoCo Athletics
• Monitoring your student's progress with SIS Parent Account
• Visiting the South County High School PTSO Web Site
• Joining the South County High School PTSO and attend meetings

• Athletic Boosters SCHS Athletic Boosters Club (SCABC)

• Transportation Office- 703-446-2150

South County High School Quick Links

• School lunch/menu info
• Parent and Student IT Support Portal
• Telephone Parent Info Line (Available in 8 languages)
• FCPS Parent Resource Center
• 2024-25 Standard School Year Calendar
• FCPS Cares-share and submit your story about a South County High School staff member who has gone above and beyond for your child this year. 
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• FCPS Safety Tipline
• Free and Reduced- Price Meals

8501 Silverbrook Road, Lorton, VA 22079 | Main Office: 703.446.1600
Attendance: 703.446.1625 | Web | Twitter

For the latest news, scores, and schedules please visit our SCHS Athletics & Activities website:  https://stallionnation.org

In an effort to provide an optimal game day experience for our fans and guests, below is information on tickets, entry, and general guidelines. 

Tickets

• Adult tickets are $7; student tickets are $5. Children ages 5 and under as well as senior citizens 60+ will be admitted free. *Invitationals & Tournaments could charge up $10 for adults.
• District & Regional tickets: adult tickets $7; student tickets $5.
• No re-entry.
• Purchase your tickets online to avoid the line @ South County HS E-Tix

Seating and Entry

• Gates will open 30 minutes before the start of the contest (60 minutes for Varsity Football).
• Middle School students will not be permitted entry without an adult. 
• Fans can enter through the main gate ONLY. 
• Parents are reminded that the stadium is an inviting place for children to play.  However, it can be very dangerous, so, please always supervise children.

Backpacks, Bags & Other Outside Items

• Purses, diaper bags, and reasonably sized bags are permitted inside the stadium with adults. However, all bags may be subject to search and inspection.
• Students are not permitted to bring bags or backpacks into the stadium.

Student Pick-Up

• Students MUST be picked up within 15 minutes of the end of the event.   

Beverage Policy

• No outside food or drinks are permitted inside the stadium.

Smoking & Tobacco Use

• Smoking and the use of all tobacco products on any Fairfax County Public School campus is prohibited. This prohibition applies to all individuals while on any FCPS campus, including faculty, staff, students, administrators, contractors, and visitors. Cigarettes, e-cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco, snuff, pipes, and chewing tobacco are not permitted.

  Click Here to Purchase Your Stallion Pass! To be eligible to tryout for High School Sports you must complete the following:

 

• Online Registration (click here)

The athlete AND one parent/guardian must review the online Concussion Education presentation, which is part of the online registration process mentioned above. This must be completed once per year.

• Current VHSL Physical Form (click here)

The VHSL form must say “Revised January 2021” in the top right corner of pages 1-4. No other versions of this document will be accepted. Please be sure that this form is completed in it’s entirety. Incomplete forms will be returned to families. Page 3 must be signed and dated (After May 1, 2024) by a physician.

All freshmen are academically eligible for sports in the fall and winter. High School students must pass no less than five credits the previous semester to remain eligible each season.

All required forms and contact information for coaches are available on the Athletics and Activities website https://stallionnation.org/.

 

First Day of Tryouts

Fall Sports – August 5, 2024 Winter Sports – Nov 11th. 2024 Spring Sports – Feb 24, 2025 Cheerleading Boys/Girls Basketball Baseball Cross Country Gymnastics Boys/Girls Crew Dance (Tryouts in June) Boys/Girls Indoor Track Boys/Girls Lacrosse Field Hockey Boys/Girls Swim & Dive Boys/Girls Soccer Football Wrestling Softball Golf (Starts August 1) Sideline Cheer Boys/Girls Outdoor Track Boys/Girls Volleyball   Boys/Girls Tennis

 

If you have a child, grand-child, niece or nephew participating in one or more of our SCHS athletic programs this year, please consider becoming a member of the Athletic Boosters and helping run our non-profit organization with fellow parent-volunteers. 

 

Click Here to Join the South County Athletic Booster Club!

 

Follow us on Social Media:

Instagram

Twitter

Facebook

 

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

Important Upcoming Dates

• 09/30/24- 6:30-8:30pm Hidden In Plain Sight (Silver Box)
• 10/02/24- Senior Portrait 
• 10/02/24- National Custodian Appreciation Day
• 10/03/24- Rosh Hashanah (Holiday) No School
• 10/04/24- Teacher Workday (No School for students)
• 10/05/24- SOCO Marching Band Invitational 
• 10/06/24- National Coaches Day
• 10/09/24- 12th Graders SAT School Day
• 10/09/24- Walk and Roll to School Day
• 10/10-10/11- Hearing and Vision Screening for 10th Graders
• 10/11/24- Yom Kippur
• 10/12/24- Ombuds Day
• 10/14-10/18- National School Lunch Week
• 10/14-10/18- Digital Citizenship Week
• 10/14/24- Indigenous Peoples' Day (Staff Development)
• 10/17/24- 7:00pm- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
• 10/21-10/25- National School Bus Safety Week
• 10/31/24- Quarter End- Early Dismissal
• 11/01/24- Diwali/ Dia de los Muertos and All Saints Day (Holiday)
• 11/03-11/04- School Planning and Teach Workday
• 01/09/25- 7:00pm- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
• 02/11/25- 7:00pm- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
• 04/07/25 7:00pm- Partners for Safe Teen Driving
• 06/04/25- 7:00pm- Class of 2025 Graduation (Eagle Bank)

Rosh Hashanah begins at sundown on Wednesday, October 2. That day is an evening-only observance day. Important events will not be held after school. 

Thursday, October 3, is a holiday for all FCPS staff. Schools and offices will be closed. 

Friday, October 4, is a teacher workday and there will be no school for students. 

See the complete school year calendar.

Message from Dr. Khoshaba

Greetings SoCo family,

I hope this message finds you well and full of that incredible Stallion pride! Every day, I am reminded of how special our South County community is—from the determination of our students to the unwavering support of our parents. Together, we are building a culture where every student thrives, feels connected, and embodies the spirit of excellence that makes our school stand out.

As we charge forward into another exciting week, let’s continue to champion kindness, patience, and perseverance. Whether it's in the classroom, on the field, or simply walking through our halls, I’m inspired by the strength and unity of our Stallion family.

Student and Staff Belonging

Welcome to our new Assistant Principal, Bryan Hazard. Coming to us from Robinson Secondary School, Mr. Hazard brings 28 years of experience with him, having worked in various roles. He spent many years as a Health and Physical Education teacher and the Head Wrestling Coach at Robinson, where his teams achieved numerous accolades, including seven VHSL State Championships. Mr. Hazard is eager to make a positive impact at SoCo. In his free time, Mr. Hazard enjoys traveling and cooking with his family, listening to live music, and serving as a public address announcer and TV broadcaster for various sports. Welcome to the SoCo family, Mr. Hazard!

The Breakfast Breakdown, which is an Advisory group of students that provide input and feedback about our school culture, was a fantastic event this week. Typically, I have about 10 students who attend, but this week’s version saw more than 100 students in attendance. It was so popular in fact that we had to relocate from the main office to the Chorus room! We discussed great topics, including A.I. and our new cell phone policy. These students continue to fill my heart with joy as they share their real feelings and perspectives about these important matters.

We also had the chance to meet with our Senior Stallions this week. If your student was anything like my daughter when she was in high school, I rarely received information in a timely manner. “Dad, I need money for Homecoming tickets. Today is the last day to buy them!” was the type of communication I stumbled through during her high school years. The good news? We have dates and prices for nearly every aspect of the senior year. You should be able to find much of that in the general section of this newsletter.

During our assembly, I also shared with students that the difference between people who are successful and those who are not is that successful people consistently do the “small things” right every day. Getting to school on time, completing your work, and not leaving school without permission are easy things to do; at the same time, they are also easy things not to do. I think most students received the message well.

We then had a chance to take our Senior Class picture. The students were absolutely PERFECT in the way that they filed into the gym and sat for their picture. Here’s a picture of a portion of my administrative team with 570 students behind us!

 

Have you ever had a day where the best part was not even on your calendar? That’s what I experienced that day as I was invited to sit and play Down by the Bank with a group of our Stallions. In my 28 years in education, I have never felt so included and respected as I do by our Stallions. They regularly fill my surprise me with how engaged they are with each other and the adults at school! One of our students, Katherine, ended up winning, and her friends all wanted to be part of her special celebratory picture!

Saddle Up with Stallion Spirit:

At SoCo, we believe that a strong school culture is the foundation for student success. It’s not just about academic achievement, but about fostering an environment where every student feels valued, connected, and empowered. When students are proud of their school and feel a sense of belonging, they are more engaged, motivated, and ready to rise to any challenge. Together, we’re building a culture of respect, resilience, and community—values that will serve our students well beyond their time here.

Our Stallion football team gave it their all last week, showing incredible determination and heart on the field. While the outcome wasn’t in our favor, their effort and teamwork were undeniable. We’re proud of the hard work they put in and know they’ll continue to push forward with the same spirit and grit in the games ahead!

Of course, we had a lot of activities and performances that night and the week before. For the past two weeks, our Stallion Dance Team delivered a dynamic and dazzling display during halftime! Their precision, passion, and powerful performance wowed the crowd, showcasing the hard work and heart they bring to every routine. We’re so proud of the dedication and determination they embody—truly a stellar showcase of Stallion spirit!

Our Color Guard and Band hit all the right notes and added a splash of color to the halftime show with a performance that was truly in tune with Stallion pride! Their harmony, hard work, and creativity shined through, making the show a real hit. A standing ovation to these talented students for marching to the beat of excellence!

A huge shout-out to our spirited Stallion cheerleaders for not only bringing energy and enthusiasm to the sidelines but also for welcoming our future cheerleaders into their performance! Their kindness and leadership shined as they mentored and cheered alongside the next generation of Stallion spirit. It was a heartwarming display of teamwork and tradition, and we are so proud of the way they continue to inspire our community!

Finally, our Hype Squad truly knows how to gallop into action, bringing unmatched energy and excitement to every game! Their positive vibes and school spirit keep the crowd and players on track and charging forward. We’re so grateful for their contagious enthusiasm and for the way they rally behind our teams, making every game feel like a victory in Stallion pride!

Driving with Patience: Supporting Our Student Drivers. As more of our students begin driving to school, it’s important that we all demonstrate patience and understanding. Our student drivers are learning and may take a bit more time when parking or navigating busy areas. We ask that parents refrain from honking, making disparaging remarks, or using gestures that could discourage or upset our young drivers. Let’s model the respect and kindness that we expect from our students – after all, it’s the Stallion way. Together, we can maintain a supportive environment for all members of our community.

For those of you who are new to SoCo, did you know we have two Kiss and Ride locations? One is outside of Door 12, and the other is located in the student parking lot nearest the Bubble. I’ve circled the two locations on the map below, as well as directional arrows for how to get there.

Championing Faith: The Heart of Our FCA

We had a wonderful start to school Wednesday morning. Lead by students, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) hosted a morning event, filled with songs, prayer, and fellowship. With more than 100 Stallions in attendance, the positive vibe was flowing among all in attendance. Here's how one student leader felt about the event: “Being part of this family affords me the opportunity to have meaningful relationships with fellow students and strengthen my faith in a way like no other. This morning's ‘See You At the Pole’ event was a beautiful time where everyone put aside their differences, and came together for the greater good of the school and the world at large. It was a blessing to have the opportunity to speak and to listen to my fellow students share about our faith, concerns, and everyday life.”

Honoring Heritage:

As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, we honor the rich tapestry of cultures, traditions, and contributions that Hispanic and Latinx communities bring to our Stallion family. Recognizing and appreciating our diverse backgrounds is an essential part of our Stallion DNA, fostering a sense of belonging and understanding among all students. This month provides us with the opportunity to learn, share, and celebrate the vibrant history and achievements of Hispanic individuals, reinforcing our commitment to inclusivity and respect. Together, let's embrace our differences and unite in the spirit of celebration!

Staff Spotlight:

Mr. Zachery Zehner has been working professionally as an English teacher for four and a half years, spending four of those years teaching right here at South County. When not in the classroom, Mr. Zehner can be found at the movie theater, checking out the latest films. He has visited the movie theater thirty times so far in 2024! He is also our yearbook advisor, overseeing a highly motivated student staff that captures the essence of our school year. He is proud to help these students create a lasting keepsake that people can look back on for years to come. If anyone is interested in signing up for one of Zach’s “can’t miss” 2025 yearbooks, please go to this link: https://yearbookforever.com/school-store/MrKrSeuF8CCJ3pUQQFK9GyY1

I want to also highlight one of our outstanding Spanish teachers, Mrs. Storer, for a once in a lifetime accomplishment. Yes, she’s an incredibly talented classroom teacher. And yes, she is a wonderful staff member with whom to collaborate for creative ideas. But did you know she’s now a Hall of Fame (HOF) recipient? Yes, that’s right! Last weekend, Mrs. Storer was inducted into her high school HOF at Albert Einstein High School, where she played a guard on the basketball court. Congratulations on such a noteworthy accomplishment, Mrs. Storer! Your dedication to the game and inspiring leadership have truly been a slam dunk for our school community. We’re so proud to have you as part of the Stallion family!

Club Corner: This week’s focus turns to one of our newest clubs, Mind Matters: Work2BeWell. This club exists to create a supportive environment where students can speak up and learn about the impact of mental health in their daily lives. Every student at our school has a story— little do they know that story could be used to help another Stallion. This club will allow for students to find healthy ways to exercise mental wellness activities and allow for Stallions to have an encouraging network of peers to manage the highs and lows of high school. The club sponsor is Mr. Mason, who can be reached at the following email if you have any questions: [email protected].

Spotlight: Days of Joy

This section of the newsletter always makes my heart smile. I include experiences from the week that leave me feeling inspired to continue doing the “heart” work that I was called to do.

The Walk and Talk activity was one of my favorite memories this week. Two of our Stallions, Natalie and Sage, participated in this activity with me and Mr. Mims (one of our administrators). After sharing what’s going well (cell phone policy here vs. prior schools) and what can be improved (perhaps having a 5% reduction to a grade instead of 10% for late submissions), we had the chance to discuss their teachers. Each student felt so well-connected to their teachers, but each quickly identified one as their trusted adult. One student selected Mr. Chiprut for embodying the core value of Trust, while the other picked Mr. Santora, who also demonstrated Trust but with different examples. The students were given the chance to thank each teacher, tell them why they were selected, and gave them a Core Values shirt in appreciation. Easily, this is one of the most special celebrations I have ever experienced.

Another joyful moment I had came in parts. In two separate instances, I had the chance to meet with BRILLIANT student leaders:  the International Night (I-Night) and Asian Night executive boards. Both groups are passionate and proud of their respective cultures, and they are eager to make this year’s respective celebrations the best ever! Mark your calendars, as we are planning for two fantastic shows of cultural celebrations for I-Night on Saturday, February 15, 2025 at 12:00noon and 5:00pm. The date for Asian Night will be coming soon.

Things You Need to Know about Next Week:

Parent, student, and staff surveys are coming during the time frame of Sept. 30 through Oct. 11, asking for feedback about the new FCPS cell phone policy. Students will complete it during Advisory class on October 7, and parents will receive a link at the email address of the primary caregiver.

Also, this Thursday, October 3, 2024, is a religious observance day. I wish all of our Stallion families who celebrate Rosh Hashanah a joyful and sweet new year! May this special time bring you peace, reflection, and renewal as you gather with loved ones. Shana Tova!

Attendance Matters!

Chronic absenteeism (CA) is a struggle that schools across our nation are facing. It’s defined as students missing greater than or equal to 10% or more of the total days in membership. This means that any student who missed 10% of the days they are enrolled in school is considered CA. Currently, we’re doing a great job of students attending school, as our school rate is only at 7.5%. With each passing day, the more students attend, the more this rate goes down.

Did you know?

• By 9th grade, regular and high attendance is a better predictor of graduation rates than 8th grade test scores.
• Students can be chronically absent even if they only miss a day or two every few weeks.

We greatly appreciate your continued support in encouraging your students to come to school each day. Our goal is to provide a rich and engaging educational experience, and having your child present is essential to making that happen. 

 As always, please continue to check our website for the latest news at: https://southcountyhs.fcps.edu/.

As we look to the future, the outlook for our Stallion community is bright! Together, we will continue to Stand Strong in our commitment to excellence and inclusivity. Let’s embrace the exciting opportunities ahead and make this year truly memorable. Thank you for your continued support!

Kambar

#StandStrong

VDOE required hearing/vision screenings for all 10th graders

Parents/Guardians of 10th grade students who wear glasses and/or contacts – Please have your students bring their glasses with them (or ensure they have their contacts in) to school October 10 and 11, 2024. We will be conducting the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) required hearing and vision screening for all 10th grade students.

Parents of Current 10th graders,

South County will be hosting 4 sessions of PSTD - Partners for Safe Teen Driving this school year.  If your student is currently enrolled in HPE 10 it is mandatory that they attend ONE of the sessions with a parent/guardian.  The session dates are as follows:   Oct 17, 2024, Jan 9, 2025, Feb. 11, 2025 and April 7, 2025. The presentations are held in the auditorium and begin promptly at 7:00 p.m.  Doors open at 6:45 and lock at 7:00 p.m. – no late arrivals permitted.  

Presentations last approximately 90 minutes.

Any questions please reach out to Maureen Saale- [email protected]

The 2024 SOCO Marching Band Invitational is approaching on October 5th. Gates open at 1:30p.m. We will be hosting 14 bands from across the region for an awesome day of music.

Check out the schedule of events here: https://schedules.competitionsuite.com/435b17ca-1fda-4e74-b42d-519741ea3123_logistical.htm

Please help us stock the concessions stand! (click here).  If you choose something from the Amazon wish list it can be shipped directly to us.

SOCO Music Families: We need all hands on deck to make this happen. (You do not need to have a student in marching band to help out.)Are you able to volunteer? Check out the opportunities here: : 2024 SOCO Marching Band Invitational Sign-Up Genius We appreciate any help you can give.

Dear Parents/Guardians and the Senior Class of 2025:

We at Victor O’Neill Studios, your school’s official photographer, are excited to see you on the following date(s) for your senior portraits at your school:

Session C: Wednesday October 2nd

Don’t miss this opportunity to be photographed for the yearbook! The required attire for the school’s yearbook pose are traditional Tuxedos and Drapes; provided by us!

In addition to the free yearbook session, we also offer sessions that include casual/personality portraits and Cap and Gown portraits.

Please follow the link below to choose your session type and appointment time: www.vosphoto.com/southcounty

As a friendly reminder, appointments are needed for Senior Portraits.
If you have any questions, please email our Senior Portraits Team: [email protected]

Please kindly include your Senior’s First and Last Name and “South County Class of 2025” when emailing, for faster assistance.

Thank you!
Your Senior Portraits Team

 

Dear Students, 

Last chance to join DECA! This is the FINAL week to join and be part of one of the biggest clubs at SOCO!

DECA is more than just a club; it’s an opportunity to set yourself up for future success. As an international organization, DECA prepares high school students for careers in business through hands-on learning experiences. 

By joining DECA, you’ll have the chance to:

• Develop critical business and leadership skills
• Network with industry professionals and peers
• Earn scholarships and community service hours to support your education
• Gain real-world experience that looks great on college applications
• Build lasting friendships and be part of a motivated, ambitious community

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to invest in your future! Join DECA today and unlock your potential.    

DECA MEMBERSHIP FORM https://forms.gle/AGgzJgUQsFfFJ6P86

Membership dues ($40) can be paid via cash, check, or myschoolbucks.  Cash/checks can be brought to Ms. Huffman in RM A212.

Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS)

Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS) is a community awareness program designed to enlighten parents through a unique learning experience encompassing insights into trends and indicators of potentially risky behavior.

We guide you through a presentation that opens your eyes to what is right in front of you. This program begins with a “show and tell” of “red flags” that can indicate risky behavior in teens. An educational portion follows that includes a PowerPoint presentation that touches on drug and alcohol use, vaping, mental health and behavioral concerns, risky sexual behaviors, trending "challenges," and more.  

We include up-to-date statistics and local trends, and law enforcement officers will share their experiences they have had in our community identifying risky behaviors and helping to put kids on the right path to a healthy life. 

Finally, we discuss how to open the door to communicating with your teens about risky behaviors and how to address issues that arise.

Registration is required, and seats are limited for this free event. 

You must be 18 or older to attend. No children are allowed at this presentation.

Please email MPO Meg Hawkins ([email protected]) if you have any questions or if you want to set up a presentation for your organization, club, or group.

Date- 09/30/2024 (Mon.) Time-6:30PM - 8:30PM  Location South County HS - Silver Box Theatre

Register here

For more information see attached flyer World Languages Credit by Exam

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. If that language is one of the languages listed below, consider registering your student for the World Languages Credit by Exam! 

The 2024 World Languages Credit by Exam will be administered at Soputh County High School between November 6 and 22.

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. 

More information, including the list of languages offered on the exam, and how to register is available online.

 

AWARENESS

Disability History and Awareness Month

In Virginia during October, Disability History and Awareness activities provide an opportunity to create greater public awareness for individuals with disabilities, with the goal of full inclusion in our community. 

National Hispanic Heritage Month

From September 15 to October 15, FCPS recognizes and celebrates the histories and cultures of the members of our community who trace their heritage to Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. Learn more about National Hispanic Heritage Month. 

National Bullying Prevention Month

October is National Bullying Prevention Month. To help develop a common understanding of Bullying, below is the FCPS definition. 

Bullying in Students Rights and Responsibilities is defined as: “Any aggressive and unwanted behavior that is intended to harm, intimidate, or humiliate the victim; involves a real or perceived power imbalance between the aggressor or aggressors and victim; and is repeated over time or causes severe emotional trauma. “Bullying” includes cyberbullying. “Bullying” does not include ordinary teasing, horseplay, argument, or peer conflict.”

For more information on how FCPS handles a bullying situation please visit the FCPS Bullying Prevention and Intervention webpage. Our goal is to ensure all students feel safe and welcome at school. If you have questions and/or concerns about something that is going on at school, please contact the front office so that they can support you and most importantly your student.  

PTSO

South County High School PTSO is partnering with Seasonal Roots, a local online farmers market,  to bring healthy, delicious food to our community, to support local farmers and artisans, and to raise money to support the All Night Grad Party for our seniors!

Seasonal Roots is an online farmers market that delivers “dirt to doorstep”  to families in Maryland and Virginia. Each week the market offers more than 150 items that are all grown and produced locally, sustainably, and ethically. Market items include fruit, vegetables, meat, dairy, baked goods, prepared foods, vegan specialties and more.

As part of this fundraiser for ANGP - new customers can join Seasonal Roots for 50% off the membership fee (a $25 savings!)

PLUS for every new customer who signs up (and places their first order), a $20 donation will be made to South County PTSO! WIN-WIN for everyone!  Be sure to use promotional code SOCOANGP at https://www.seasonalroots.com/socoangp.

ALL ANGP LINKS

We are excited to announce that parents are now able to enter ONLY full day absences through ParentVue.

Please be sure to specify in the notes the reason for the absence. If you have to report a late arrival, early release or an absence longer than 2 days, please call or email the attendance office at 703-446-1625 or [email protected]. Thank you!

Email: [email protected] Phone: 703-446-1625

OPTION 1- ALL DAY ABSENCE 

OPTION 2- LATE ARRIVAL

OPTION 3- EARLY RELEASE

 

(CALL OR EMAIL FIRST THING IN THE MORNING TO REPORT EARLY RELEASE)

• Handwritten notes are acceptable*
• Call/email/note must come from parent/guardian, NOT the student*
• Please always leave a message, they are checked constantly*

South County ATHLETICS

For the latest news, scores, and schedules

please visit our website.

Athletics & Activities Website: 

https://stallionnation.org/

Important SoCo and FCPS Resources How to Stay In Touch

Please stay in touch with us throughout the year by:

• Keeping your contact information up-to-date
• Visiting the South County High School Website
• Signing up for News You Choose
• Following us on Facebook
• Following us on Twitter
• Following us on Instagram
• Following  SoCo Athletics
• Monitoring your student's progress with SIS Parent Account
• Visiting the South County High School PTSO Web Site
• Joining the South County High School PTSO and attend meetings

• Athletic Boosters SCHS Athletic Boosters Club (SCABC)

• Transportation Office- 703-446-2150

South County High School Quick Links

• School lunch/menu info
• Parent and Student IT Support Portal
• Telephone Parent Info Line (Available in 8 languages)
• FCPS Parent Resource Center
• 2024-25 Standard School Year Calendar
• FCPS Cares-share and submit your story about a South County High School staff member who has gone above and beyond for your child this year. 
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• FCPS Safety Tipline
• Free and Reduced- Price Meals

8501 Silverbrook Road, Lorton, VA 22079 | Main Office: 703.446.1600
Attendance: 703.446.1625 | Web | Twitter

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Important Upcoming Dates

• 09/30/24- 6:30-8:30pm Hidden In Plain Sight (Silver Box)
• 10/02/24- Senior Portrait 
• 10/09/24- 12th Graders SAT School Day
• 06/04/24- 7:00pm- Class of 2025 Graduation (Eagle Bank)

Message from Dr. Khoshaba

Dear Stallion Families,

What an incredible week it’s been here at South County! Our school spirit is shining bright, and I’m thrilled to share a ton of exciting updates with you. From our sports teams giving it their all, to upcoming events that you won’t want to miss, there’s a lot happening around SoCo! This week’s newsletter is packed with important reminders, celebrations, and opportunities for your students to get involved. Let’s dive into what’s in store as we continue making this school year one for the books!

Stay proud, stay spirited, and go Stallions!

Student and Staff Belonging

The Boys volleyball team served up an incredible performance in their first home game of the season, and now they’ve spiked their way to 4th in the state of Virginia! Keep it up, Stallions — you’re on a roll!

I had a wonderful time meeting Ambar, who proudly shared her family heritage from the Dominican Republic. We had a meaningful bonding moment when I mentioned that I go by my middle name, Kambar, which is quite similar to hers! Moments like these remind us how personal connections can help us all feel a greater sense of belonging at school.

We had a stallion-strong night of sports as our Field Hockey team charged ahead, securing victories against Hayfield in both the JV and Varsity games! It’s moments like these that show the true spirit of teamwork and belonging here at South County. Go Stallions!

School Culture:

Hispanic Heritage Month

At South County, we take great pride in celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month because it’s a time to honor the rich cultures, traditions, and contributions of our vibrant Hispanic and Latino community. This month gives us the chance to recognize the incredible diversity within our school and beyond, as well as the unique histories, languages, and customs that make each person’s heritage special. It’s a time for us to come together as Stallions, learn from one another, and celebrate the beauty of unity through diversity. By embracing and appreciating Hispanic heritage, we strengthen our own sense of belonging, pride, and community. Go Stallions!

Stallion Star!

I’d like to congratulate William Terry, who was recognized as a great representative of South County High School’s core value of Hope!  His nomination reads, “Not a single day goes by where William doesn’t give up on himself, academically or ethically.  He’s always been a bright, optimistic, and compassionate fellow.  It never takes him much effort to make someone’s day awesome.  Even though school has been tough for him lately, William Terry always looks forward and finds the positive out of everything.” Wow! William is a great role model for all of us to follow!

Merit Masters!

It is with great pride and excitement that we recognize and celebrate the incredible achievements of several of our outstanding students. Congratulations to Manahil Amjad, Melisa Grigorescu, Sage Hofmann, Tristan Mihocko, April Nguyen, Junhee Sim, and Abraham Welle for earning "Commended" status in the National Merit Scholarship Program!

This prestigious recognition is awarded to approximately 34,000 students nationwide who have demonstrated exceptional academic promise. These students have shown remarkable dedication and academic excellence, standing out among their peers for their potential and hard work.

As a South County educational family, we should all be incredibly proud of these Stallions. Their achievements reflect not only their own commitment but also the supportive community we have built together. This honor will undoubtedly help broaden their educational opportunities and inspire them to continue reaching new heights in their academic pursuits.

Please join me in congratulating Manahil, Melisa, Sage, Tristan, April, Junhee, and Abraham on this well-deserved recognition!

Be Part of the PAC!

The Parent Advisory Council met bright and early this past week. We’re incredibly grateful to the those who attended and shared their valuable feedback. Their insights and suggestions are helping us shape the future of our school, ensuring that we continue to grow and improve. Together, we’re building a stronger, more connected school community!

Our next meeting is scheduled for November 12, 2024, at 6PM in the Library.

Stallions for a Cause

We are fortunate to be in such a generous and loving school community. Thanks to Elena Jordan for spearheading this year’s Emma Jordan Kidz Fighting Cancer Foundation.  Here are some Childhood Cancer facts and why it is imperative that we fundraise for Childhood Cancer Research.  

      

Childhood Cancer is the #1 killer of American children by disease under the age of 19- more than all other childhood diseases combined.

•     Every day 47 children in the U.S. are diagnosed with cancer- over 17,000 per year.
•     1 in every 285 U.S. children will develop cancer before their 20th birthday; 1 in every 5 of these children will die at the average age of 8 years old.
•     Childhood cancer rates have increased by 24% over the past 40 years.
•     There are more than 12 major types of childhood cancer and over 100 subtypes.
•     Only 4% of all Federal government cancer research funding goes to study all pediatric cancers- childhood cancer non-profit organizations are critical.
•     In the last 20 years, only 6 cancer treatments have been specifically developed and approved for children.
•     Childhood treatments require very different drugs than adult protocols, yet most use a variation of adult drugs due to a lack of research and trials.
•     Because of the treatments they had as children, more than 99% of childhood cancer survivors will have a chronic health problem and 96% will have severe or life-threatening conditions.

 

The SoCo Gold Out Events raised $4900.00!  We greatly appreciate the childhood cancer awareness and the money raised for research due to the Gold Out Events at Girls Volleyball, Field Hockey, Football, and Boys Volleyball!  We have an awesome Stallion Nation!

Seeing Double

A few weeks ago, my Assistant Principals told me they’d spotted my twin. Naturally, I was curious—who could this be? Well, last week at the football game, I finally found him. Turns out, Mr. Edwards and I do share a certain resemblance. But are we really twins? Only if twins can be separated by 10 years... and let’s just say, I’m definitely the older brother!

 

 

Staff Spotlight:

Kathleen Winston is in her sixth year at South County High as an Administrative Assistant (in Sub School 1 / 2) and her third year coaching our swim team. With an impressive 24 years of coaching experience, Mrs. Winston brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the program. As a former accomplished swimmer herself, she excelled in both the backstroke and butterfly events. Outside of her professional commitments, Mrs. Winston enjoys unwinding by playing games on her iPad. We are fortunate to have her dedication and expertise guiding our student-athletes.

Club Corner:

The Caribbean Student Union is all about sharing and learning about Caribbean culture! We participate in activities such as food tasting, flag quizzes and fundraisers. CSU is all about acceptance of culture. The contact for the CSU is the sponsor, Mr. Mason, who can be reached at [email protected]

Spotlight: Days of Joy

I experienced so many sources of joy this week, and one of my favorite was the Sources of Strength training that nearly 70 students participated in. This program focuses on promoting mental health, building resilience, and preventing suicide, bullying, and substance abuse. It empowers students to recognize and tap into their personal strengths and social networks for support. The program is peer-led and emphasizes positive relationships, encouraging participants to connect with trusted adults and peers while fostering a community of hope, help, and strength. The ultimate goal is to create a culture where students support one another and spread messages of wellness and strength throughout the school community.

Our students shared their sources of strength already in their lives that help them relax (in creative and fun ways!).

One of my favorite moments was listening to students discuss how they’ve seen the program and themselves grow by being part of this Strength-based community. Testimonies were all positive and certainly varied, but one in particular stood out to me. When one student reported, “I feel that I’m better able to identify my own mental health status and needs, as well as seeing needs in my classmates.” Wow! How reflective and inspirational!

Five Things You Need to Know about Next Week:

1. We have 18 parents/guardians signed up for our Hidden in Plain Sight Presentation on Monday, September 30th. We have 50 slots available.  (pics)
2. Breakfast Breakdown for our Student Advisory Council is Sept. 24 at 7:30am in the main office.
3.  At South County High School, we may be in the South, but when it comes to education, we’re the North Star—guiding the way with excellence. Our "Super Stallion" award program is a perfect example of this, celebrating the meaningful relationships that fuel our community and drive student success. Through recognition and connection, we lead by example, showing that our direction is always toward progress and achievement. Include a copy of the Super Stallion nomination form.

     4. September 30 is the underclassmen picture make-up day.

     5. Hidden in Plain Sight training is scheduled for September 30 at 6:30PM.           Please sign up via the QR code below:

 As we close out this week, let’s continue to Stand Strong, Stallions! Whether in the classroom, on the field, or supporting one another, we’re building a school community that thrives together. Keep standing tall and proud—because when we Stand Strong, there’s nothing we can’t accomplish. Have an amazing weekend!

Go Stallions!

 

Kambar

#StandStrong

Dear Parents/Guardians and the Senior Class of 2025:

We at Victor O’Neill Studios, your school’s official photographer, are excited to see you on the following date(s) for your senior portraits at your school:

Session C: Wednesday October 2nd

Don’t miss this opportunity to be photographed for the yearbook! The required attire for the school’s yearbook pose are traditional Tuxedos and Drapes; provided by us!

In addition to the free yearbook session, we also offer sessions that include casual/personality portraits and Cap and Gown portraits.

Please follow the link below to choose your session type and appointment time: www.vosphoto.com/southcounty

As a friendly reminder, appointments are needed for Senior Portraits.
If you have any questions, please email our Senior Portraits Team: [email protected]

Please kindly include your Senior’s First and Last Name and “South County Class of 2025” when emailing, for faster assistance.

Thank you!
Your Senior Portraits Team

Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS)

Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS) is a community awareness program designed to enlighten parents through a unique learning experience encompassing insights into trends and indicators of potentially risky behavior.

We guide you through a presentation that opens your eyes to what is right in front of you. This program begins with a “show and tell” of “red flags” that can indicate risky behavior in teens. An educational portion follows that includes a PowerPoint presentation that touches on drug and alcohol use, vaping, mental health and behavioral concerns, risky sexual behaviors, trending "challenges," and more.  

We include up-to-date statistics and local trends, and law enforcement officers will share their experiences they have had in our community identifying risky behaviors and helping to put kids on the right path to a healthy life. 

Finally, we discuss how to open the door to communicating with your teens about risky behaviors and how to address issues that arise.

Registration is required, and seats are limited for this free event. 

You must be 18 or older to attend. No children are allowed at this presentation.

Please email MPO Meg Hawkins ([email protected]) if you have any questions or if you want to set up a presentation for your organization, club, or group.

Date- 09/30/2024 (Mon.) Time-6:30PM - 8:30PM  Location South County HS - Silver Box Theatre

Register here

For more information see attached flyer World Languages Credit by Exam

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. If that language is one of the languages listed below, consider registering your student for the World Languages Credit by Exam! 

The 2024 World Languages Credit by Exam will be administered at Soputh County High School between November 6 and 22.

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. 

More information, including the list of languages offered on the exam, and how to register is available online.

 

AWARENESS

Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!

The beginning of the school year is the best time to develop strong attendance habits! Students who attend school regularly are more likely to perform well in reading and math, develop strong social and emotional skills, and graduate from high school on time. Help prepare your child for future success. Visit FCPS’ Attendance web page for tips and strategies.  

National Hispanic Heritage Month

From September 15 to October 15, FCPS recognizes and celebrates the histories and cultures of the members of our community who trace their heritage to Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. Learn more about National Hispanic Heritage Month. 

Blue Star Welcome Week

Every year, approximately 600,000 military-connected families relocate. Most of these families move to new duty stations, while some transition out of the military and others transition in. Most of these moves take place over the summer, and Fairfax County Public Schools is committed to ensuring our military families feel welcomed and a sense of belonging to their local community. 

Blue Star Welcome Week is an opportunity for our community to welcome our military-connected families and show them our appreciation for their service and sacrifices. Throughout the week, FCPS will help ease their transition through events, messages, actions of welcome, and opportunities to make meaningful connections. Please help us welcome our military families during Blue Star Welcome Week, September 21 - September 29, 2024, and throughout the year! #BlueStarWelcomeWeekFCPS 

PTSO

South County High School PTSO is partnering with Seasonal Roots, a local online farmers market,  to bring healthy, delicious food to our community, to support local farmers and artisans, and to raise money to support the All Night Grad Party for our seniors!

Seasonal Roots is an online farmers market that delivers “dirt to doorstep”  to families in Maryland and Virginia. Each week the market offers more than 150 items that are all grown and produced locally, sustainably, and ethically. Market items include fruit, vegetables, meat, dairy, baked goods, prepared foods, vegan specialties and more.

As part of this fundraiser for ANGP - new customers can join Seasonal Roots for 50% off the membership fee (a $25 savings!)

PLUS for every new customer who signs up (and places their first order), a $20 donation will be made to South County PTSO! WIN-WIN for everyone!  Be sure to use promotional code SOCOANGP at https://www.seasonalroots.com/socoangp.

ALL ANGP LINKS

We are excited to announce that parents are now able to enter ONLY full day absences through ParentVue.

Please be sure to specify in the notes the reason for the absence. If you have to report a late arrival, early release or an absence longer than 2 days, please call or email the attendance office at 703-446-1625 or [email protected]. Thank you!

Email: [email protected] Phone: 703-446-1625

OPTION 1- ALL DAY ABSENCE 

OPTION 2- LATE ARRIVAL

OPTION 3- EARLY RELEASE

 

(CALL OR EMAIL FIRST THING IN THE MORNING TO REPORT EARLY RELEASE)

• Handwritten notes are acceptable*
• Call/email/note must come from parent/guardian, NOT the student*
• Please always leave a message, they are checked constantly*

South County ATHLETICS

For the latest news, scores, and schedules

please visit our website.

Athletics & Activities Website: 

https://stallionnation.org/

Important SoCo and FCPS Resources How to Stay In Touch

Please stay in touch with us throughout the year by:

• Keeping your contact information up-to-date
• Visiting the South County High School Website
• Signing up for News You Choose
• Following us on Facebook
• Following us on Twitter
• Following us on Instagram
• Following  SoCo Athletics
• Monitoring your student's progress with SIS Parent Account
• Visiting the South County High School PTSO Web Site
• Joining the South County High School PTSO and attend meetings

• Athletic Boosters SCHS Athletic Boosters Club (SCABC)

• Transportation Office- 703-446-2150

South County High School Quick Links

• School lunch/menu info
• Parent and Student IT Support Portal
• Telephone Parent Info Line (Available in 8 languages)
• FCPS Parent Resource Center
• 2024-25 Standard School Year Calendar
• FCPS Cares-share and submit your story about a South County High School staff member who has gone above and beyond for your child this year. 
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• FCPS Safety Tipline
• Free and Reduced- Price Meals

8501 Silverbrook Road, Lorton, VA 22079 | Main Office: 703.446.1600
Attendance: 703.446.1625 | Web | Twitter

For the latest news, scores, and schedules please visit our SCHS Athletics & Activities website:  https://stallionnation.org

In an effort to provide an optimal game day experience for our fans and guests, below is information on tickets, entry, and general guidelines. 

Tickets

• Adult tickets are $7; student tickets are $5. Children ages 5 and under as well as senior citizens 60+ will be admitted free. *Invitationals & Tournaments could charge up $10 for adults.
• District & Regional tickets: adult tickets $7; student tickets $5.
• No re-entry.
• Purchase your tickets online to avoid the line @ South County HS E-Tix

Seating and Entry

• Gates will open 30 minutes before the start of the contest (60 minutes for Varsity Football).
• Middle School students will not be permitted entry without an adult. 
• Fans can enter through the main gate ONLY. 
• Parents are reminded that the stadium is an inviting place for children to play.  However, it can be very dangerous, so, please always supervise children.

Backpacks, Bags & Other Outside Items

• Purses, diaper bags, and reasonably sized bags are permitted inside the stadium with adults. However, all bags may be subject to search and inspection.
• Students are not permitted to bring bags or backpacks into the stadium.

Student Pick-Up

• Students MUST be picked up within 15 minutes of the end of the event.   

Beverage Policy

• No outside food or drinks are permitted inside the stadium.

Smoking & Tobacco Use

• Smoking and the use of all tobacco products on any Fairfax County Public School campus is prohibited. This prohibition applies to all individuals while on any FCPS campus, including faculty, staff, students, administrators, contractors, and visitors. Cigarettes, e-cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco, snuff, pipes, and chewing tobacco are not permitted.

Gold Outs in support of the Emma Jordon Kidz Fighting Cancer Foundation are this week! 

Girls Volleyball- Tuesday, September 10th at 5/ 6:30 

(Students wearing a gold shirt get in FREE!)

Field Hockey- Thursday, September 12th at 6:15/7:30 Football- Friday, September 13th at 7pm 

Boys Volleyball-Tuesday, September 17th at 7:15

T-Shirts will be on sale tomorrow. 9/17 during Lunch!

$10 (S-XL); $15 (2XL- 3XL)

Cash/ Venmo/ Cash App accepted

We are so grateful to the SoCo community for continuing to raise awareness for Childhood Cancer and the Emma Jordon Kidz Fighting Cancer Foundation!

  Click Here to Purchase Your Stallion Pass! To be eligible to tryout for High School Sports you must complete the following:

 

• Online Registration (click here)

The athlete AND one parent/guardian must review the online Concussion Education presentation, which is part of the online registration process mentioned above. This must be completed once per year.

• Current VHSL Physical Form (click here)

The VHSL form must say “Revised January 2021” in the top right corner of pages 1-4. No other versions of this document will be accepted. Please be sure that this form is completed in it’s entirety. Incomplete forms will be returned to families. Page 3 must be signed and dated (After May 1, 2024) by a physician.

All freshmen are academically eligible for sports in the fall and winter. High School students must pass no less than five credits the previous semester to remain eligible each season.

All required forms and contact information for coaches are available on the Athletics and Activities website https://stallionnation.org/.

 

First Day of Tryouts

Fall Sports – August 5, 2024 Winter Sports – Nov 11th. 2024 Spring Sports – Feb 24, 2025 Cheerleading Boys/Girls Basketball Baseball Cross Country Gymnastics Boys/Girls Crew Dance (Tryouts in June) Boys/Girls Indoor Track Boys/Girls Lacrosse Field Hockey Boys/Girls Swim & Dive Boys/Girls Soccer Football Wrestling Softball Golf (Starts August 1) Sideline Cheer Boys/Girls Outdoor Track Boys/Girls Volleyball   Boys/Girls Tennis

 

If you have a child, grand-child, niece or nephew participating in one or more of our SCHS athletic programs this year, please consider becoming a member of the Athletic Boosters and helping run our non-profit organization with fellow parent-volunteers. 

 

Click Here to Join the South County Athletic Booster Club!

 

Follow us on Social Media:

Instagram

Twitter

Facebook

 

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

Important Upcoming Dates

• 09/30/24- 6:30-8:30pm Hidden In Plain Sight (Silver Box)
• 10/09/24- 12th Graders SAT School Day

Message from Dr. Khoshaba

Well wishes are extended to our SoCo families!

We have a very busy but productive week in so many ways. From special themed days to incredibly positive instructional experiences, our Stallions are displaying school pride in so many areas. Let’s look at what we’ve accomplished and experienced this week.

Victory at Home! A Game to Remember!

In a dazzling display of determination, SoCo football triumphed over West Springfield with a spectacular 43-25 victory! But the win was only part of the story—our Stallion spirit truly stole the show. The Spirit Squad’s spirited shouts, the cheerleaders’ cheers, and the band’s booming beats created a crescendo of community camaraderie. Fans feasted on fabulous fare from our Band Parents’ concession stand and sampled scrumptious selections from a variety of vibrant vendors. It was a home opener bursting with brilliant bonding, proving once again that our Stallion pride can’t be beat!

Student and Staff Belonging

One of the Assistant Principals, Mrs. Tolan, and I engaged in a Walk and Talk activity with two of our outstanding Stallions, Giselle and Brooke. They both are enjoying their classes and our positive school culture. They identified Mr. McCormally and Ms. Blesi has their trusted adults, recognizing that they genuinely care for their students and make learning fun. The insights I continue to gain from these casual conversations is assisting me with recognizing the accomplishments and strengths of our school, while also finding the areas in which we need to improve. I truly appreciate the candor that both students share with us.

High Quality Instruction

Last week, I referenced the sample newsletter to staff that our Instructional Coach, Dr. Omohundro, offers this year. Here’s a sample of it for all to see.

Early in the week, I had the privilege of observing Mr. Crichton’s AP Physics class. The students completed a lab on estimating the collision location of two toy vehicles. These AP Physics students are really crushing gravity in the lab—talk about force to be reckoned with!

 

I had the pleasure of observing Mrs. Ballard’s AP English Language class, which stands out as one of the most welcoming and supportive environments in our school. As students focused intently on preparing for an upcoming exam, Mrs. Ballard shared a truly inspiring message: “Remember, you are more than a score or grade. You are young individuals who are already remarkable, and this is just one assignment. I believe in you!” Her words remind us all that kindness and encouragement from teachers are key to helping students grow to their full potential. Kudos to Mrs. Ballard for delivering such a meaningful and uplifting message!

School Culture:

We had several impactful events that left a positive result on our school culture this week. First, we had a wonderful faculty meeting early the week. We intentionally changed around a few formats, including the focus of including student performances, celebrating staff accomplishments, giving out raffles (thank you to our PTSO!), engaging in staff-lead Professional Development, and reserving the content to items that we need to discuss (with all remaining items being emailed to staff). A next day survey revealed an overall satisfaction rating of 4.1 (on a 5-point scale), which is rather high for faculty meetings! Here are just a few of the activities we enjoyed together:

In the spirit of celebrating our dedicated team, I'm excited to introduce the new "Super Stallion" award program. This initiative allows any of our valued stakeholders—students, parents, or colleagues—to nominate staff members who consistently demonstrate exceptional engagement and build positive relationships within our community. To submit a nomination, simply complete a card available in the main office or use the attached form and submit it directly to me. Each month, we’ll select two Super Stallion winners during our faculty meeting to receive a gift card. And remember, in a culture of appreciation, everyone wins—because even if your name isn’t drawn for a prize, you still receive the most valuable reward: recognition!

Looking ahead, parents who are looking for ways to get to know “behind the scenes” and “before anyone else knows” information, please consider joining our Parents Advisory Council. Our first meeting of the year is Sept. 18 at 7:30am in the library. Please sign up using this link: https://forms.gle/tsCZfbKJNsgdBztr7.

Similarly, we have an opportunity for students to attend our first Principal’s Student Advisory Council “Breakfast Breakdown” on September 24 at 7:30am in the main office conference room. Again, for students who want to provide input on ways we can continue improving the experience of being a Stallion, I invite all of them to attend. Students can sign up via the advertisements posted throughout our school that look like this:

Kicking Off Hispanic Heritage: A Month of Culture and Celebration!

SoCo is excited to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15. This special time provides a wonderful opportunity for students and staff to explore and appreciate the rich culture and contributions of the Hispanic community. By highlighting diverse traditions and stories, we aim to foster greater understanding and unity within our school. Join us in this meaningful celebration of heritage and learning! A special shout-out goes one of our outstanding World Language teachers, Mrs. Straughn, and her committee for working diligently to begin preparations for this month-long celebration.

Staff Spotlight:

Stephen Kingston, a 19-year teaching veteran, is in his fourth year of proudly standing strong with us at South County. Over the years, he’s become a true Stallion in US History, mastering his subject and inspiring students along the way. Beyond the classroom, Mr. Kingston has led with heart, previously sponsoring the 12th grade class and now co-sponsoring our Culture Champions team. When he’s not making history come alive for his students, he enjoys staying active and spending quality time with family and friends. We’re fortunate to have such a dedicated and compassionate Stallion leading the charge!

Club Corner:

In this week’s spotlight, we proudly recognize The Work2BeWell Club of South County. This organization exists to create a supportive environment where students can speak up and learn about the impact of mental health in their lives. Every student at our school has a story— little do they know that story could be used to help another stallion. This club will allow for students to find healthy ways to exercise mental wellness activities and allow for stallions to have an encouraging network of peers to manage the highs and lows of high school. To express interest or if you have any questions, feel free to reach out to the club sponsor, Mr. Mason, at [email protected].

Days of Joy:

This year we are recognizing 36 weeks of joy at SoCo. We have so much to be appreciative of, and this initiative ensures that we continue recognizing and celebrating the wonderful aspects of being a Stallion. For me, I experienced great joy when I met with five of our Senior Class Officers this week. The discussion centered on what they wanted their Senior privileges to be this year. We settled on identifying the details for students who want to paint their parking spaces, as well as allowing seniors to leave five minutes early from their last class on Fridays. More important than the topics were way these student leaders presented their ideas in such a positive and professional manner. I couldn’t be any prouder of these Stallions!

3 Things You Need to Know about Next Week:

1. Parents, I kindly ask that we all extend grace and patience to our student drivers, who are still learning the ropes of driving and parking safely. It’s important to remember that this process can take them a bit longer, and they may need a few extra moments to park or re-park their vehicles. Our senior representatives have noticed that some parents have been honking or rushing these students, which only adds to their stress and makes them more nervous. Let's support our young drivers by showing understanding. If you’re in a hurry to leave school property, arriving before 7:50 can help you avoid the heaviest traffic and ensure a smoother experience for everyone. Thank you for helping us foster a compassionate and supportive environment for our students!
2. Let’s rally together and give a strong Stallion welcome to our Boys’ Volleyball team as they take the court for their first-ever home game! We know they’ll stand tall and strong as they spike their way to success. Let's show them that Stallion pride runs deep—both on and off the court!
3. Our Sources of Strength organization is meeting this Thursday, September 19 for their first meeting of the year. These student leaders are focused on preventing adverse outcomes by increasing wellbeing, help-seeking, resiliency, healthy coping, and belonging.

Summing It Up!

As I continue to learn about Artificial Intelligence, I’m having fun. Here’s my newest avatar generated by Dall-e! I hope all of you are also starting to explore the opportunities that are being developed with AI. Take a chance on learning something new. You may just discover a new passion or talent within yourself!

Have a wonderful weekend!

 

Kambar

#StandStrong

SEL Screener

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) believes in supporting social and emotional learning (SEL) for all students. In FCPS, students use a tool called the SEL Screener to think about their own SEL skills and experiences at school. All South County High School students will be participating in the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener in the Fall and Spring. 

After each screening, results are available in the Documents tab of SIS ParentVUE and mailed to families without a ParentVUE account.

For more information about the SEL Screener including information on opting out please see the attached Parent Notification. You can also learn more on the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage.

Opt Out Form English

Opt Out Form Arabic.

Opt Out Form Chinese

Opt Out Form Korean

Opt Out Form Spanish

Opt Out Form Urdu

Opt Out Form Vietnamese

Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS)

Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS) is a community awareness program designed to enlighten parents through a unique learning experience encompassing insights into trends and indicators of potentially risky behavior.

We guide you through a presentation that opens your eyes to what is right in front of you. This program begins with a “show and tell” of “red flags” that can indicate risky behavior in teens. An educational portion follows that includes a PowerPoint presentation that touches on drug and alcohol use, vaping, mental health and behavioral concerns, risky sexual behaviors, trending "challenges," and more.  

We include up-to-date statistics and local trends, and law enforcement officers will share their experiences they have had in our community identifying risky behaviors and helping to put kids on the right path to a healthy life. 

Finally, we discuss how to open the door to communicating with your teens about risky behaviors and how to address issues that arise.

Registration is required, and seats are limited for this free event. 

You must be 18 or older to attend. No children are allowed at this presentation.

Please email MPO Meg Hawkins ([email protected]) if you have any questions or if you want to set up a presentation for your organization, club, or group.

Date- 09/30/2024 (Mon.) Time-6:30PM - 8:30PM  Location South County HS - Silver Box Theatre

Register here

For more information see attached flyer World Languages Credit by Exam

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. If that language is one of the languages listed below, consider registering your student for the World Languages Credit by Exam! 

The 2024 World Languages Credit by Exam will be administered at Soputh County High School between November 6 and 22.

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. 

More information, including the list of languages offered on the exam, and how to register is available online.

 

You’ve been Tagged! 

Saturday was Tag Day … the biggest fundraiser for the year for the South County High School Performing Arts Department.  It takes thousands of dollars more than the fees that are charged for each group to run a complete band, orchestra, choir, or theater program.  To keep our fees low and keep the performing arts in our schools, we depend on contributions from our incredible community. 

Student teams came to your door this Saturday asking for tax-deductible contributions to “Support the Arts.”  Thank you to everyone who donated to our Performing Arts department!  But … if you weren’t home, you were tagged, or a “door hanger” was left on your door.  If you would still like the opportunity to donate to our Performing Arts programs, please include a donation in an envelope and either drop it off at the school or mail it to us. If you prefer credit card or PayPal, visit www.schsbands.org, and click DONATE in the left menu (please include a note that the donation is for Tag Day).  Either way, don’t forget to keep the tag as the receipt for your tax deductible donation.

Thank you again for your support of our Performing Arts Department! We look forward to seeing you at our music and theater productions here at SCHS. 

AWARENESS

Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!

The beginning of the school year is the best time to develop strong attendance habits! Students who attend school regularly are more likely to perform well in reading and math, develop strong social and emotional skills, and graduate from high school on time. Help prepare your child for future success. Visit FCPS’ Attendance web page for tips and strategies.  

National Hispanic Heritage Month

From September 15 to October 15, FCPS recognizes and celebrates the histories and cultures of the members of our community who trace their heritage to Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. Learn more about National Hispanic Heritage Month. 

PTSO

South County High School PTSO is partnering with Seasonal Roots, a local online farmers market,  to bring healthy, delicious food to our community, to support local farmers and artisans, and to raise money to support the All Night Grad Party for our seniors!

Seasonal Roots is an online farmers market that delivers “dirt to doorstep”  to families in Maryland and Virginia. Each week the market offers more than 150 items that are all grown and produced locally, sustainably, and ethically. Market items include fruit, vegetables, meat, dairy, baked goods, prepared foods, vegan specialties and more.

As part of this fundraiser for ANGP - new customers can join Seasonal Roots for 50% off the membership fee (a $25 savings!)

PLUS for every new customer who signs up (and places their first order), a $20 donation will be made to South County PTSO! WIN-WIN for everyone!  Be sure to use promotional code SOCOANGP at https://www.seasonalroots.com/socoangp.

ALL ANGP LINKS

We are excited to announce that parents are now able to enter ONLY full day absences through ParentVue.

Please be sure to specify in the notes the reason for the absence. If you have to report a late arrival, early release or an absence longer than 2 days, please call or email the attendance office at 703-446-1625 or [email protected]. Thank you!

Email: [email protected] Phone: 703-446-1625

OPTION 1- ALL DAY ABSENCE 

OPTION 2- LATE ARRIVAL

OPTION 3- EARLY RELEASE

 

(CALL OR EMAIL FIRST THING IN THE MORNING TO REPORT EARLY RELEASE)

• Handwritten notes are acceptable*
• Call/email/note must come from parent/guardian, NOT the student*
• Please always leave a message, they are checked constantly*

South County ATHLETICS

For the latest news, scores, and schedules

please visit our website.

Athletics & Activities Website: 

https://stallionnation.org/

Important SoCo and FCPS Resources How to Stay In Touch

Please stay in touch with us throughout the year by:

• Keeping your contact information up-to-date
• Visiting the South County High School Website
• Signing up for News You Choose
• Following us on Facebook
• Following us on Twitter
• Following us on Instagram
• Following  SoCo Athletics
• Monitoring your student's progress with SIS Parent Account
• Visiting the South County High School PTSO Web Site
• Joining the South County High School PTSO and attend meetings
• Transportation Office- 703-446-2150

South County High School Quick Links

• School lunch/menu info
• Parent and Student IT Support Portal
• Telephone Parent Info Line (Available in 8 languages)
• FCPS Parent Resource Center
• 2024-25 Standard School Year Calendar
• FCPS Cares-share and submit your story about a South County High School staff member who has gone above and beyond for your child this year. 
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• FCPS Safety Tipline
• Free and Reduced- Price Meals

8501 Silverbrook Road, Lorton, VA 22079 | Main Office: 703.446.1600
Attendance: 703.446.1625 | Web | Twitter

For the latest news, scores, and schedules please visit our SCHS Athletics & Activities website:  https://stallionnation.org

In an effort to provide an optimal game day experience for our fans and guests, below is information on tickets, entry, and general guidelines. 

Tickets

• Adult tickets are $7; student tickets are $5. Children ages 5 and under as well as senior citizens 60+ will be admitted free. *Invitationals & Tournaments could charge up $10 for adults.
• District & Regional tickets: adult tickets $7; student tickets $5.
• No re-entry.
• Purchase your tickets online to avoid the line @ South County HS E-Tix

Seating and Entry

• Gates will open 30 minutes before the start of the contest (60 minutes for Varsity Football).
• Middle School students will not be permitted entry without an adult. 
• Fans can enter through the main gate ONLY. 
• Parents are reminded that the stadium is an inviting place for children to play.  However, it can be very dangerous, so, please always supervise children.

Backpacks, Bags & Other Outside Items

• Purses, diaper bags, and reasonably sized bags are permitted inside the stadium with adults. However, all bags may be subject to search and inspection.
• Students are not permitted to bring bags or backpacks into the stadium.

Student Pick-Up

• Students MUST be picked up within 15 minutes of the end of the event.   

Beverage Policy

• No outside food or drinks are permitted inside the stadium.

Smoking & Tobacco Use

• Smoking and the use of all tobacco products on any Fairfax County Public School campus is prohibited. This prohibition applies to all individuals while on any FCPS campus, including faculty, staff, students, administrators, contractors, and visitors. Cigarettes, e-cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco, snuff, pipes, and chewing tobacco are not permitted.

Gold Outs in support of the Emma Jordon Kidz Fighting Cancer Foundation are this week! 

Girls Volleyball- Tuesday, September 10th at 5/ 6:30 

(Students wearing a gold shirt get in FREE!)

Field Hockey- Thursday, September 12th at 6:15/7:30 Football- Friday, September 13th at 7pm 

Boys Volleyball-Tuesday, September 17th at 7:15

T-Shirts will be on sale at all lunches this week! $10 (S-XL); $15 (2XL- 3XL)

Cash/ Venmo/ Cash App accepted

We are so grateful to the SoCo community for continuing to raise awareness for Childhood Cancer and the Emma Jordon Kidz Fighting Cancer Foundation!

  Click Here to Purchase Your Stallion Pass! To be eligible to tryout for High School Sports you must complete the following:

 

• Online Registration (click here)

The athlete AND one parent/guardian must review the online Concussion Education presentation, which is part of the online registration process mentioned above. This must be completed once per year.

• Current VHSL Physical Form (click here)

The VHSL form must say “Revised January 2021” in the top right corner of pages 1-4. No other versions of this document will be accepted. Please be sure that this form is completed in it’s entirety. Incomplete forms will be returned to families. Page 3 must be signed and dated (After May 1, 2024) by a physician.

All freshmen are academically eligible for sports in the fall and winter. High School students must pass no less than five credits the previous semester to remain eligible each season.

All required forms and contact information for coaches are available on the Athletics and Activities website https://stallionnation.org/.

 

First Day of Tryouts

Fall Sports – August 5, 2024 Winter Sports – Nov 11th. 2024 Spring Sports – Feb 24, 2025 Cheerleading Boys/Girls Basketball Baseball Cross Country Gymnastics Boys/Girls Crew Dance (Tryouts in June) Boys/Girls Indoor Track Boys/Girls Lacrosse Field Hockey Boys/Girls Swim & Dive Boys/Girls Soccer Football Wrestling Softball Golf (Starts August 1) Sideline Cheer Boys/Girls Outdoor Track Boys/Girls Volleyball   Boys/Girls Tennis Purchase an Ad in the 2024 Fall Sports Program for Seniors participating in Fall Sports!
¼ page - $100
½ page - $200
Spotlight your Senior or celebrate a group of Senior Athletes!
Proceeds benefit the South County High School Athletic Boosters Club

FINAL CALL!

 

E-mail form & pictures to: Elena Jordon [email protected]

Please contact Elena at 703-302-0197 if you have any questions.

 

If you have a child, grand-child, niece or nephew participating in one or more of our SCHS athletic programs this year, please consider becoming a member of the Athletic Boosters and helping run our non-profit organization with fellow parent-volunteers. 

 

Click Here to Join the South County Athletic Booster Club!

 

Follow us on Social Media:

Instagram

Twitter

Facebook

 

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

Important Upcoming Dates

• 09/14/24- Tag Day
• 09/30/24- 6:30-8:30pm Hidden In Plain Sight (Silver Box)
• 10/09/24- 12th Graders SAT School Day

Message from Dr. Khoshaba

Happy September, SoCo!

As we roll past the third week of school, I still find it amazing that we’re already into the month of September. This month stirs up warm feelings of past Fall seasons. Football games, marshmallows toasted over a fireplace, and spending time with family and friends are some of my favorite memories of years that have passed. Speaking of memories, let’s review some of the best from this past week.

Student and Staff Belonging

As one of our three focal points for this year, “creating a sense of belonging” takes time but is well worth it! This week, I had the chance to spend time with our new Dean of Students, Mr. Gildea, and two students who had completed all their work from English class. In a program known as “Walk and Talk,” we spent time with students India and JoJo, learning about their perspective of SoCo. What’s going well, what can we improve, and what else do you want me to know are just a few of the questions we used as sentence starters. I want to thank both students for the time they spent with us. We appreciate the honesty and reflections, India and JoJo!

 

Our Core Values at SoCo were student-developed three years ago and maintaining that spotlight on them is important for growth purposes. The values of Honesty, Trust, Hope, and Curiosity are meaningful traits for all Stallions to aspire to reach. When students demonstrate any one of these traits, we enjoy celebrating them with pictures and Core Values t-shirts. This year, we decided to add staff to the pool of recipients to thank them for embodying those qualities at school as well. Here are pictures of the first Stallions to receive this distinguished recognition.

High Quality Instruction

As a second pillar of focus this year, high quality instruction shows up in many ways. Based on the research from John Hattie, we are focusing on these strategies in particular at SoCo. We are currently in the second of three years of implementing these strategies consistently in our classes. Why is high quality instruction important? Glad you asked! High-quality instruction is like a stallion in full stride—strong, focused, and unstoppable. It leads the way with power and precision, guiding students toward success with confidence and purpose.

As part of this roll-out, this year our Instructional Coach, Dr. Omohundro, is providing teachers with quarterly newsletters. 

School Culture:

School culture play such a critical role in the way that stakeholders feel about school. Our culture is impacted by numerous events and celebrations, and here are a few that either you or your students can enjoy.

1. We have our first Breakfast Breakdown for students meeting on September 24 at 7:30am in the main office. If your student is interested in learning a behind-the-scenes approach to the leadership of our school, or if they want to express their opinions about experiences that happen at SoCo, please encourage them to join me at this meeting. They can sign up throughout the building on flyers that look like this:

2. Congratulations to our varsity football team, who beat Robinson last week 22-8. Our Stallions really stampeded to victory last week—what a win! Our community wishes them the best as we travel to Quince Orchard this weekend, with a Saturday start time of 5:00pm.

3. Another new recognition we have started this year is the new Athletes of the Month awards. While we have always recognized students with this title, new this year is the actual award itself: a picture with a championship belt! Congratulations to our first recipients of the 2024-25 school year, Jasmine Morales in Volleyball and Tyler Orth in football. I want to give a shout-out to Mr. Marvin Wooten for his creativity in designing this unique way of celebrating our student-athletes.

4. I had FANTASTIC meetings this week with students from the International-night Executive Board, as well as with leaders for the Asian American Pacific Islander Month night in May. Both groups truly brought joy to my heart as we listened to and brainstormed ideas from each other. Have I mentioned lately how great the students at SoCo are?

5. This year, we will once again host the Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS) event. HIPS is a drug prevention event where police or experts create a mock teen bedroom to show parents hidden signs of substance abuse. Everyday objects are used to conceal drugs or paraphernalia, teaching parents how to recognize warning signs and trends. The event aims to help adults spot potential issues early and encourage open discussions with teens. We are only accepting the first 25 parents who sign up, so join sooner than later to guarantee your spot at this free event: https://bit.ly/schships24.

6. We are hosting our first Parent Advisory Council meeting on Wednesday, September 18 at 7:30am. We will host four of these this year, alternating between morning and evening time slots. I will share sign up information next week, but please save this date if you are interested in attending.

Staff Spotlight:

Sean Miller is a once-in-a-lifetime personality and educator! As the current Social Studies Department Chair, Mr. Miller is one of our most passionate and talented teachers. As one student recently stated, “Mr. Miller made AP African American studies enjoyable and informative. We created projects, including sculptures. Because of his teaching style, most students in our class scored very high on the AP exam.” We appreciate all that Mr. Miller (pictured below in the center with a green t-shirt) brings to the table at SoCo!

Club Corner:

The organization that is spotlighted this week is the Tree House Club.  Their objective is to explore and discover family histories and engage in community service activities. Each month, they meet to focus on utilizing internet tools to investigate and expand their understanding of their families and help others do the same. To learn more about them, you can find them on Schoology (ZJZQ-2ZJV-N45TB) or with their sponsor, Mrs. Hill ([email protected]).

Did You Know?

Next Friday, September 13, 2024, is our first home football game of the season. We’re expecting a large number of people to attend, so arrive early to get the best seats. In the spirt of “clear is kind,” I want to be clear about our expectations for student behavior and attendance.

1. We expect our students to cheer for our Stallions but refrain from jeering or booing the opposing team.
2. Students must remain in the stands to allow patrons to walk on clear pathways to and from the bleachers.
3. All students who are in elementary or middle schools must have parents accompanying them to the game and remaining with them. Parents should not simply drop off students and leave them unattended. These younger students who are not accompanied by their specific parent will not be permitted to return in future games.

As we move forward together, let’s continue to Stand Strong, supporting one another and embracing every opportunity to grow and thrive.

Have a restful weekend,

Kambar

#StandStrong

SEL Screener

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) believes in supporting social and emotional learning (SEL) for all students. In FCPS, students use a tool called the SEL Screener to think about their own SEL skills and experiences at school. All South County High School students will be participating in the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener in the Fall and Spring. 

After each screening, results are available in the Documents tab of SIS ParentVUE and mailed to families without a ParentVUE account.

For more information about the SEL Screener including information on opting out please see the attached Parent Notification. You can also learn more on the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage.

Opt Out Form English

Opt Out Form Arabic.

Opt Out Form Chinese

Opt Out Form Korean

Opt Out Form Spanish

Opt Out Form Urdu

Opt Out Form Vietnamese

Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS)

Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS) is a community awareness program designed to enlighten parents through a unique learning experience encompassing insights into trends and indicators of potentially risky behavior.

We guide you through a presentation that opens your eyes to what is right in front of you. This program begins with a “show and tell” of “red flags” that can indicate risky behavior in teens. An educational portion follows that includes a PowerPoint presentation that touches on drug and alcohol use, vaping, mental health and behavioral concerns, risky sexual behaviors, trending "challenges," and more.  

We include up-to-date statistics and local trends, and law enforcement officers will share their experiences they have had in our community identifying risky behaviors and helping to put kids on the right path to a healthy life. 

Finally, we discuss how to open the door to communicating with your teens about risky behaviors and how to address issues that arise.

Registration is required, and seats are limited for this free event. 

You must be 18 or older to attend. No children are allowed at this presentation.

Please email MPO Meg Hawkins ([email protected]) if you have any questions or if you want to set up a presentation for your organization, club, or group.

Date- 09/30/2024 (Mon.) Time-6:30PM - 8:30PM  Location South County HS - Silver Box Theatre

Register here

For more information see attached flyer SAT School Day Intent to Participate

On Wednesday, October 9, South County High School twelfth graders will have the opportunity to participate in the SAT School Day. FCPS will cover the cost for any twelfth grade student to take this test. The essay option and subject area tests are not available during SAT School Day.

To reserve a seat for your twelfth grader to take this exam and ensure appropriate test materials are available for your student, families are asked to complete the form below by Wednesday, September 4.

South County High School: 2024 SAT School Day Intent to Participate Form  https://forms.gle/22qb7SXb3GR97u9Y7

Your student will need to use a @fcpsschools.net email account to access and complete this form.  A translated version of the form content may be found on the SAT School Day Intent Form webpage (https://www.fcps.edu/node/43896). FCPS sites cannot accept walk-ins on the day of the exam.  

For more information, please see the SCHS SAT School Day webpage.   If you have questions about the SAT School Day administration at South County High School, please contact Chris Bird at [email protected] or at 703-446-1643.

World Languages Credit by Exam

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. If that language is one of the languages listed below, consider registering your student for the World Languages Credit by Exam! 

The 2024 World Languages Credit by Exam will be administered at Soputh County High School between November 6 and 22.

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. 

More information, including the list of languages offered on the exam, and how to register is available online.

 

GET YOUR GOLD ON FOR CHILDHOOD CANCER AWARENESS!

Gold Outs in support of the Emma Jordon Kidz Fighting Cancer Foundation are this week! 

Girls Volleyball- Tuesday, September 10th at 5/ 6:30 

(Students wearing a gold shirt get in FREE!)

Field Hockey- Thursday, September 12th at 6:15/7:30 Football- Friday, September 13th at 7pm 

Boys Volleyball-Tuesday, September 17th at 7:15

T-Shirts will be on sale at all lunches this week! $10 (S-XL); $15 (2XL- 3XL)

Cash/ Venmo/ Cash App accepted

We are so grateful to the SoCo community for continuing to raise awareness for Childhood Cancer and the Emma Jordon Kidz Fighting Cancer Foundation!

September 14th is Tag Day!!

Tag Day is the biggest fundraiser of the year for the South County Performing Arts Department.  It takes thousands of dollars more than the fees that are charged for each group to run a complete band, orchestra, choir, or theater program.  To keep our fees low and keep the performing arts in our schools, we depend on contributions from our incredible community.

Student teams will be coming to your door next Saturday asking for tax-deductible contributions to “Support the Arts.”  Thank you in advance to everyone who donates to our Performing Arts department!  We look forward to seeing you at all of our performing arts productions here at SCHS.

 

AWARENESS

Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!

The beginning of the school year is the best time to develop strong attendance habits! Students who attend school regularly are more likely to perform well in reading and math, develop strong social and emotional skills, and graduate from high school on time. Help prepare your child for future success. Visit FCPS’ Attendance web page for tips and strategies.  

September 11 National Day of Service

With the upcoming 23rd anniversary of September 11, FCPS acknowledges the loss of life, the heroism of our first responders, and the resilience of our country. The September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance, also called Patriot Day, is a chance to reflect and act in service to others to honor those who were injured or killed in the terrorist attacks.

All FCPS students are encouraged to participate in service learning as it supports Portrait of a Graduate (POG) attributes and social and emotional learning (SEL) skills. Middle and high school students can learn more about service learning by logging into their Naviance account to access x2VOL. 

National Hispanic Heritage Month

From September 15 to October 15, FCPS recognizes and celebrates the histories and cultures of the members of our community who trace their heritage to Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. Learn more about National Hispanic Heritage Month. 

PTSO

South County High School PTSO is partnering with Seasonal Roots, a local online farmers market,  to bring healthy, delicious food to our community, to support local farmers and artisans, and to raise money to support the All Night Grad Party for our seniors!

Seasonal Roots is an online farmers market that delivers “dirt to doorstep”  to families in Maryland and Virginia. Each week the market offers more than 150 items that are all grown and produced locally, sustainably, and ethically. Market items include fruit, vegetables, meat, dairy, baked goods, prepared foods, vegan specialties and more.

As part of this fundraiser for ANGP - new customers can join Seasonal Roots for 50% off the membership fee (a $25 savings!)

PLUS for every new customer who signs up (and places their first order), a $20 donation will be made to South County PTSO! WIN-WIN for everyone!  Be sure to use promotional code SOCOANGP at https://www.seasonalroots.com/socoangp.

ALL ANGP LINKS

We are excited to announce that parents are now able to enter ONLY full day absences through ParentVue.

Please be sure to specify in the notes the reason for the absence. If you have to report a late arrival, early release or an absence longer than 2 days, please call or email the attendance office at 703-446-1625 or [email protected]. Thank you!

Email: [email protected] Phone: 703-446-1625

OPTION 1- ALL DAY ABSENCE 

OPTION 2- LATE ARRIVAL

OPTION 3- EARLY RELEASE

 

(CALL OR EMAIL FIRST THING IN THE MORNING TO REPORT EARLY RELEASE)

• Handwritten notes are acceptable*
• Call/email/note must come from parent/guardian, NOT the student*
• Please always leave a message, they are checked constantly*

South County ATHLETICS

For the latest news, scores, and schedules

please visit our website.

Athletics & Activities Website: 

https://stallionnation.org/

Important SoCo and FCPS Resources How to Stay In Touch

Please stay in touch with us throughout the year by:

• Keeping your contact information up-to-date
• Visiting the South County High School Website
• Signing up for News You Choose
• Following us on Facebook
• Following us on Twitter
• Following us on Instagram
• Following  SoCo Athletics
• Monitoring your student's progress with SIS Parent Account
• Visiting the South County High School PTSO Web Site
• Joining the South County High School PTSO and attend meetings
• Transportation Office- 703-446-2150

South County High School Quick Links

• School lunch/menu info
• Parent and Student IT Support Portal
• Telephone Parent Info Line (Available in 8 languages)
• FCPS Parent Resource Center
• 2024-25 Standard School Year Calendar
• FCPS Cares-share and submit your story about a South County High School staff member who has gone above and beyond for your child this year. 
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• FCPS Safety Tipline
• Free and Reduced- Price Meals

8501 Silverbrook Road, Lorton, VA 22079 | Main Office: 703.446.1600
Attendance: 703.446.1625 | Web | Twitter