WSHS Spartan Weekly News_ February 21, 2024

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UPCOMING EVENTS FEBRUARY

24: Spring Sports Tryouts Begin

28: Ramadan Begins at Sundown

WSHS Calendars/Bell Schedules

NEWS AND NOTES Spring Sports Tryouts Begin Monday, February 24

Get ready to spring into action! Spartan Spring sports tryouts begin Monday, February 24th. Check the two graphics below for specific times and locations of tryouts. All interested students must have a completed VHSL Physical and Athletic registration on file with our Athletic Trainer to tryout for a sport. Spring sports include: baseball, softball, outdoor track & field, tennis, lacrosse, soccer, and crew. Don't miss this chance to represent the Spartans. We'll see you on the field/court/track! Questions: contact the coach. 

Become Unskippable: Practical Guidance for Talking With Teens About Fentanyl

Teens skip things that don't interest them, including lectures from their parents. But young people die from fentanyl overdoses in Fairfax County each year — so it's important to have short, impactful talks with your teen, whether or not you think they’re at risk.

As a parent or caregiver, you have the power to become “unskippable” and talk with your teen in a way they will listen. 

See our tips for talking with your teen about fentanyl and other difficult subjects. Watch this video below to learn more about becoming unskippable. 

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

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

“Go Paperless” Progress Report Option 

Opt-in to receive “Paperless” Report Cards!

  • Parents and/or guardians will need to log into ParentVUE, click “My Account” and select "Go Paperless"
  • All parents and/or guardians who live with the student and share the same address must have a SIS ParentVUE account and must select the paperless option to prevent mailing of the printed progress reports.
  • The “Go Paperless” option will apply to all their associated students, no matter what school level.
  • If the associated parent and/or guardian has already selected “Go Paperless” for their secondary student, the option will now apply to any elementary siblings as well.

Report Cards are now available in your ParentVue and StudentVue under documents.  If you do not have a ParentVue account, please see below:

You can learn how to activate your account by going to this video or follow the following steps:

  1. Contact the office during regular school hours and request an activation letter for SIS ParentVue.
  2. The school will provide a letter with an activation key and detailed instructions that expires at 12:00 a.m. (midnight) on the date listed in the letter.
  3. Once you receive the activation key, go to https://sisparent.fcps.edu and click on More Options in the bottom right corner.
  4. Click on Activate Account
  5. Review the SIS Parent Account Privacy Policy and select I Agree
  6. Enter your First Name, Last Name, and Activation Key as they appear on the letter.
  7. Enter your email address (which will become your username) and a password that meets the minimum requirements.
  8. You will then receive an email from [email protected] to complete the activation.  Click the link in the email before it expires.
  9. You will receive your confirmation of activation in a second email.
  10. CONGRATS, you now have a SIS ParentVUE account!
STUDENT SERVICES Military and Family Life Counselor Full Time at WSHS

Our Military and Family Life Counselor (MFLC), Ms. Kendra Burnside, is now back full time to support our military connected students at WSHS!

Please complete and return the opt in form if interested in receiving support. The form should be printed, signed, and returned to the main office or a counselor.  

opt in form

Academic Advising Timeline 2025-2026

Mark your calendars with the following dates to assist with choosing courses for next school year. 

  1. Pre-Advising Learning Seminar | Pre-Advising Lesson shared with Grades 9, 10, and 11 during LS to go over Academic Advising Process. 
  2. Academic Advising Rising Sophomores | February 17-24, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  3. Last Day to Make Class Schedule Requests for the 2025-2026 School Year | March 31, 2025
  4. **Future Spartan Orientation | April (TBD) |  Rising 9th graders will visit West Springfield HS 

Student Services Quick Links

College Bound? Apply for the College Partnership Program

Application : Due February 28th

What is CPP? The mission of the College Partnership Program (CPP) is to close the opportunity gap by preparing students for college readiness and success. CPP’s goal is to ensure that students capable of completing a college preparatory path will: succeed in rigorous curriculum, actively participate in the school community, enroll in a four-year college or another post-secondary program, and become responsible participants and leaders of society.

Would you benefit from the following elements?

●Having a trusted adult at school to touch base with about academics and social-emotional wellbeing
●Organizing your time, materials, thoughts, and writing
●Getting and staying motivated to succeed in school
●Exploring colleges, careers, and a variety of pathways to postsecondary success


Do you fit into ONE or more of the following categories?●First in your family to attend a four-year college in the U.S.
●Need financial support to attend college
●Current GPA of 2.5 or above
●Determined to go to college
●Willing to take some advanced courses and put in the necessary work
●Good attendance record

If you’ve answered “yes” to any of the above, then CPP might be for you! Talk to your school counselor, as CPP just may be a good fit for you. Additional information about CPP is on the FCPS website.

Application : Due February 28th

SPARTAN SPOTLIGHT Students Attend FCPS Instruction 2 Industry Career Fair and Conference

Twenty Spartan students and two staff traveled to the INOVA Conference Center on Feb 10th to participate in the FCPS Instruction 2 Industry Career Fair and Conference. This event provided a valuable opportunity to explore various career paths, connect with industry professionals, and gain insights into the skills and knowledge needed for success in the modern workforce.

STUDENT CORNER Complete the ASVAB and receive a Career Readiness Medal at Graduation!

We are excited to share that in alignment with the VDOE accreditation standards, West Springfield High School will be recognizing students with a graduation medal, to be worn at commencement, for achievement in the areas of education, employment, and career readiness.  

The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB), a valuable career exploration tool that your student will have the opportunity to take at West Springfield High School on two upcoming dates. 

Seniors have one more opportunities to take the ASVAB. Students can register at the link:

  • March 21 – ASVAB (10 - 12th Graders, Register)

If you have any questions or would like to discuss this further, please don't hesitate to contact our College and Career Specialist, Jeff Toomer, at [email protected], or phone (703) 913-3985. 

Visit our site

🚗Learner's Permit Test at WSHS- 2nd Semester Dates!!

When: 3:10pm- specific dates below

Where: Room 2228

Cost: $25

2024-25 Dates: 2nd Semester shown below

  • February 27
  • March 20
  • April 3 and 24
  • May 22
  • June 5

Who can take the test: Students MUST be 15 years and 6 months old by the day of the test

  • This test is for Fairfax County Public School students ONLY (FCPS ID is required).
  •     If you have had 2 unsuccessful attempts at passing this test, then you are required to test at the DMV for your 3rd attempt.

How to Register:

  1. Visit FCPS ACE and sign up for a specific date- fcps.edu
  2. Once registered on the FCPS ACE site, you must also register with the DMV. A link is provided during the ACE registration and in your confirmation email. Failure to register with the DMV will result in not being able to test since they issue the secure testing codes to FCPS proctors. 

The following are required to the take the test- bring them with you on your test day:

  • Charged, school-issued laptop/Chromebook
  • Completed, and signed DTS 41 consent form- http://www.dmvnow.com/webdoc/pdf/dts41.pdf.
  • A picture ID to verify identity. If the student does not have a picture ID, take a picture, write the student's full legal name under the picture, and have a teacher sign to verify the student's identity.  You may also show your photo from SIS.
  • Earbuds/headphones to listen to directions and test audio (optional).

NEED TO PREPARE FOR THE LEARNERS PERMIT TEST? SIGN UP FOR ONE OF THE PREP COURSES!

These 90-minute classes are offered on Zoom and help to prepare students for the permit test. Sign up on aceclasses.fcps.edu. Dates for 2nd Semester are 2/26, 3/19, 4/23, 6/4. There may be more dates added later.

Send any questions to Casey Grubbs ([email protected])

ACTIVITIES  Order your Purple Up! Day Gear!

April is the Month of the Military Child, a time to honor and celebrate the resilience, courage, and contributions of FCPS military-connected children.

To show our support, FCPS will celebrate Purple Up! Day on Wednesday, April 9, 2025. On this day, school staff and students are encouraged to wear purple, symbolizing unity and support for military families across all service branches. 

Purchase the FCPS Purple Up! T-shirt and/or hoodie between now and March 7 to wear on Purple Up! Day!

Don't Miss Out—Order Your Yearbook Today!

Time is running out to secure a copy of this year’s WSHS yearbook! The Yearbook staff has been working hard to be sure this book is packed with unforgettable memories, student achievements, and all the moments that made this year special.  The yearbook is a keepsake your student will treasure for years to come.

Order Now: https://yearbookordercenter.com/job/4150

Don't wait—once they're gone, they're gone! Order yours today!

SPORTS  Spirit Wear and Tickets

If you don’t have Spartan spirit wear,  don’t worry -- the Booster Club will have plenty for sale!

The cost of all games is $5.00 for students and $7 for adults. 

To avoid long lines, we strongly encourage you to purchase a Season Pass, through our eTIX Site.  Or you can purchase individual game tickets here.

PLEASE VISIT our WEBSITE www.spartansports.net for more information and our game schedule.

Spartan Sports Calendar Feb 24 - Mar 1 Stay in Touch with Spartan Sports! 

You can follow WSHS Spartan Sports on social media:

Website: www.spartansports.net

Instagram: @wshs_sports

Sign Up For the Sports and Activities News You Choose

ALL NIGHT GRAD PARTY Purchase Tickets: 2025 All Night Grad Party

The WSHS ANGP is a time for the graduating seniors to come together, have fun and
celebrate a new journey of their lives.

The ANGP is organized by the ANGP
Committee, chaperoned by parents and members of the community, and staffed by the
St James.

  • Activities include a casino, interactive inflatable games, raffles with high-end prizes, and portraits by caricature artists. In addition, we use the amazing facilities at
  • The St. James which include ice skating, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, rock climbing, an indoor soccer/football field as well as courts for basketball, volleyball and pickleball.
  • We also have plenty of food and drinks to feed the seniors and the chaperones.

The evening is an alcohol-free and drug-free event that takes place in a safe and
supervised environment.

The 2025 All Night Grad Party (ANGP) will be held on Monday June 9th at 11:00 pm through Tuesday June 10th at 5:00 am at The St. James Performance Club in Springfield, VA.

Visit the site for tickets and more information:

https://wshs-angp.square.site/

🎓Graduation Yard Signs

Yard Signs are on sale again this year for the ANGP!

Order the signs directly through the Fast Signs website  

Signs can be personalized and all proceeds will benefit the ANGP for the Class of 2025!!

FCPS NEWS Resources for Immigrant Families

https://www.fcps.edu/resources-immigrant-families

Resources for New FCPS Families

Are you new to the area and need help understanding school registration or connecting with your local school? The following resources are available for all families:

  • Family liaisons work in the schools and community to help families get the information and assistance they need to support their children and to ensure their academic success. Family liaisons represent a variety of cultures, languages, and races.
  • Family information phone lines are available in nine languages to assist families. A school system employee will respond to your call in your preferred language within 24 hours, Monday through Friday.

Visit the FCPS Family Academy webpage to learn how FCPS works to support the continued success and well-being of each and every student. 

No-Cost Virtual Therapy for High School Students

Virtual therapy sessions are available to FCPS high school students at no cost to provide a safe space to address concerns such as:

  • Mood/behavior changes, motivation, grief/loss
  • Anxiety, worry, fears
  • Social skills, bullying, peer and family relationships
  • Academic stress

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

Visit the FCPS Teletherapy webpage for more information.

FCPS Quick Links WSHS Social Media Find WSHS Spartans on: Need Help? Contact our Family Liaison

If you have questions about navigating the school, learning about FCPS resources, or getting your student setup for success, our Family Liaison can help. Email  or sign up for Talking Points. Use code the code T6AXZW

6100 Rolling Road, Springfield, VA 22152 | Main Office: 703-913-3800
Attendance: 703-913-3838 or [email protected] | Web

WSHS Spartan Weekly News_ February 14, 2024

GovDelivery1 week 6 days ago

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

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

UPCOMING EVENTS FEBRUARY

17: Washington's Birthday and President's Day (No School)

28: Ramadan begins at sundown

 

WSHS Calendars/Bell Schedules

NEWS AND NOTES Mediation and Silent Reflection Space Accomodations Regulation

FCPS has developed Regulation 1502, Expectations for Meditation and Silent Reflection Space Accommodations, to ensure all students and staff have reasonable accommodation and access to meditation and silent reflection spaces within the school division. The regulation provides guidance for schools on how to manage requests for silent reflection during instructional and non-instructional time, and for students to leave school for religious activities.

💊 Medication Drop-Off

Medication drop-off is available Monday–Friday from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. To help minimize wait times, please avoid dropping off medication during lunch hours from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM.

The safety of our students is our priority. Thank you for your cooperation!

SIS Unavailable

SIS, StudentVUE, and ParentVUE will be unavailable beginning 5:00 p.m., Friday, February 14, 2025, through 6:00 a.m., Tuesday, February 18, 2025.

“Go Paperless” Progress Report Option 

Opt-in to receive “Paperless” Report Cards!

  • Parents and/or guardians will need to log into ParentVUE, click “My Account” and select "Go Paperless"
  • All parents and/or guardians who live with the student and share the same address must have a SIS ParentVUE account and must select the paperless option to prevent mailing of the printed progress reports.
  • The “Go Paperless” option will apply to all their associated students, no matter what school level.
  • If the associated parent and/or guardian has already selected “Go Paperless” for their secondary student, the option will now apply to any elementary siblings as well.

Report Cards are now available in your ParentVue and StudentVue under documents.  If you do not have a ParentVue account, please see below:

 

You can learn how to activate your account by going to this video or follow the following steps:

  1. Contact the office during regular school hours and request an activation letter for SIS ParentVue.
  2. The school will provide a letter with an activation key and detailed instructions that expires at 12:00 a.m. (midnight) on the date listed in the letter.
  3. Once you receive the activation key, go to https://sisparent.fcps.edu and click on More Options in the bottom right corner.
  4. Click on Activate Account
  5. Review the SIS Parent Account Privacy Policy and select I Agree
  6. Enter your First Name, Last Name, and Activation Key as they appear on the letter.
  7. Enter your email address (which will become your username) and a password that meets the minimum requirements.
  8. You will then receive an email from [email protected] to complete the activation.  Click the link in the email before it expires.
  9. You will receive your confirmation of activation in a second email.
  10. CONGRATS, you now have a SIS ParentVUE account!

 

STUDENT SERVICES Military and Family Life Counselor Full Time at WSHS

Our Military and Family Life Counselor (MFLC), Ms. Kendra Burnside, is now back full time to support our military connected students at WSHS!

Please complete and return the opt in form if interested in receiving support. The form should be printed, signed, and returned to the main office or a counselor.  

opt in form

Academic Advising Timeline 2025-2026

Mark your calendars with the following dates to assist with choosing courses for next school year. ** Dates have been updated due to snow closures

 

  1. Pre-Advising Learning Seminar | Pre-Advising Lesson shared with Grades 9, 10, and 11 during LS to go over Academic Advising Process. 
  2. Academic Advising Rising Sophomores | February 17-24, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  3. Last Day to Make Class Schedule Requests for the 2025-2026 School Year | March 31, 2025
  4. **Future Spartan Orientation | April (TBD) |  Rising 9th graders will visit West Springfield HS 

Student Services Quick Links

🎒Academic Advising is Here!

Please visit our Student Services Schoology Course to explore the diverse course offerings available at West Springfield High School.

Under the "Academic" folder on our main page, you can delve deeper into our class offerings and make informed decisions about your future course selections.

We will begin meeting with:

  • Rising Sophomores: February 17-24

Counselors are currently conducting academic advising sessions and will continue to do so through the end of January.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact your counselor directly.

College Bound?  Apply for the College Partnership Program

What is CPP? The mission of the College Partnership Program (CPP) is to close the opportunity gap by preparing students for college readiness and success. CPP’s goal is to ensure that students capable of completing a college preparatory path will: succeed in rigorous curriculum, actively participate in the school community, enroll in a four-year college or another post-secondary program, and become responsible participants and leaders of society.


Would you benefit from the following elements?

●Having a trusted adult at school to touch base with about academics and social-emotional wellbeing
●Organizing your time, materials, thoughts, and writing
●Getting and staying motivated to succeed in school
●Exploring colleges, careers, and a variety of pathways to postsecondary success


Do you fit into ONE or more of the following categories?


●First in your family to attend a four-year college in the U.S.
●Need financial support to attend college
●Current GPA of 2.5 or above
●Determined to go to college
●Willing to take some advanced courses and put in the necessary work
●Good attendance record


If you’ve answered “yes” to any of the above, then CPP might be for you! Talk to your school counselor, as CPP just may be a good fit for you. Additional information about CPP is on the FCPS website.

 

Application : Due February 28th

ACADEMY OPEN HOUSES 2025

If you are interested in an Academy next year you will want to attend an Open House beginning in January.  More information can be found here.

Open Houses are a great opportunity to visit classroom and lab spaces, speak with instructors and Academy Counselors. For questions, contact Bonnie Wannett: [email protected]. 

 

Fairfax County Firefighting Program

 February 19, 2025

 

West Potomac Academy

February 20, 2025 6 to 8 p.m.

 

INTERESTED? ACTION NEEDED:

**If you know which Academy you're interested in, please also complete this form.  The form is only available to students using their fcpsschools.net account.

SPARTAN SPOTLIGHT 💫WSHS Winter Color Guard

WSHS Winter Color Guard took 3rd place in the AIA competition at Tuscarora HS last Saturday presenting their show This Wish!

GO SPARTANS!

 

STUDENT CORNER Complete the ASVAB and receive a Career Readiness Medal at Graduation!

We are excited to share that in alignment with the VDOE accreditation standards, West Springfield High School will be recognizing students with a graduation medal, to be worn at commencement, for achievement in the areas of education, employment, and career readiness.  

The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB), a valuable career exploration tool that your student will have the opportunity to take at West Springfield High School on two upcoming dates. 

Seniors have two more opportunities to take the ASVAB. Students can register at the links:

  • March 21 – ASVAB (10 - 12th Graders, Register)

If you have any questions or would like to discuss this further, please don't hesitate to contact our College and Career Specialist, Jeff Toomer, at [email protected], or phone (703) 913-3985. 

Visit our site

🚗Learner's Permit Test at WSHS- 2nd Semester Dates!!

 

When: 3:10pm- specific dates below

Where: Room 2228

Cost: $25

2024-25 Dates: 2nd Semester shown below

  • February 27
  • March 20
  • April 3 and 24
  • May 22
  • June 5

 

Who can take the test: Students MUST be 15 years and 6 months old by the day of the test

  • This test is for Fairfax County Public School students ONLY (FCPS ID is required).
  •     If you have had 2 unsuccessful attempts at passing this test, then you are required to test at the DMV for your 3rd attempt.

 

Please read the instructions below carefully…

 

How to Register:

  1. Visit FCPS ACE and sign up for a specific date- fcps.edu
  2. Once registered on the FCPS ACE site, you must also register with the DMV. A link is provided during the ACE registration and in your confirmation email. Failure to register with the DMV will result in not being able to test since they issue the secure testing codes to FCPS proctors. 

 

The following are required to the take the test- bring them with you on your test day:

  • A picture ID to verify identity. If the student does not have a picture ID, take a picture, write the student's full legal name under the picture, and have a teacher sign to verify the student's identity.  You may also show your photo from SIS.
  • Earbuds/headphones to listen to directions and test audio (optional).

 

NEED TO PREPARE FOR THE LEARNERS PERMIT TEST? SIGN UP FOR ONE OF THE PREP COURSES!

These 90-minute classes are offered on Zoom and help to prepare students for the permit test. Sign up on aceclasses.fcps.edu. Dates for 2nd Semester are 2/26, 3/19, 4/23, 6/4. There may be more dates added later.

 

 

Send any questions to Casey Grubbs ([email protected])

ACTIVITIES  Order your Purple Up! Day Gear!

April is the Month of the Military Child, a time to honor and celebrate the resilience, courage, and contributions of FCPS military-connected children.

To show our support, FCPS will celebrate Purple Up! Day on Wednesday, April 9, 2025. On this day, school staff and students are encouraged to wear purple, symbolizing unity and support for military families across all service branches. 

Purchase the FCPS Purple Up! T-shirt and/or hoodie between now and March 7 to wear on Purple Up! Day!

Don't Miss Out—Order Your Yearbook Today!

Time is running out to secure a copy of this year’s WSHS yearbook! The Yearbook staff has been working hard to be sure this book is packed with unforgettable memories, student achievements, and all the moments that made this year special.  The yearbook is a keepsake your student will treasure for years to come.

Order Now: https://yearbookordercenter.com/job/4150

 

Don't wait—once they're gone, they're gone! Order yours today!

SPORTS  Spirit Wear and Tickets

If you don’t have Spartan spirit wear,  don’t worry -- the Booster Club will have plenty for sale!

The cost of all games is $5.00 for students and $7 for adults. 

To avoid long lines, we strongly encourage you to purchase a Season Pass, through our eTIX Site.  Or you can purchase individual game tickets here.

PLEASE VISIT our WEBSITE www.spartansports.net for more information and our game schedule.

Spartan Sports Calendar Feb 16-22 Stay in Touch with Spartan Sports! 

You can follow WSHS Spartan Sports on social media:

Website: www.spartansports.net

Instagram: @wshs_sports

Sign Up For the Sports and Activities News You Choose

ALL NIGHT GRAD PARTY Purchase Tickets: 2025 All Night Grad Party

The WSHS ANGP is a time for the graduating seniors to come together, have fun and
celebrate a new journey of their lives.

The ANGP is organized by the ANGP
Committee, chaperoned by parents and members of the community, and staffed by the
St James.

  • Activities include a casino, interactive inflatable games, raffles with high-end prizes, and portraits by caricature artists. In addition, we use the amazing facilities at
  • The St. James which include ice skating, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, rock climbing, an indoor soccer/football field as well as courts for basketball, volleyball and pickleball.
  • We also have plenty of food and drinks to feed the seniors and the chaperones.

The evening is an alcohol-free and drug-free event that takes place in a safe and
supervised environment.

 

The 2025 All Night Grad Party (ANGP) will be held on Monday June 9th at 11:00 pm through Tuesday June 10th at 5:00 am at The St. James Performance Club in Springfield, VA.

Visit the site for tickets and more information:

https://wshs-angp.square.site/

🎓Graduation Yard Signs

Yard Signs are on sale again this year for the ANGP!

Order the signs directly through the Fast Signs website  

Signs can be personalized and all proceeds will benefit the ANGP for the Class of 2025!!

FCPS NEWS IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

  • Flu Prevention
  • Students Spread Joy
  • Investing in our Classrooms

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today. 

Resources for Immigrant Families

https://www.fcps.edu/resources-immigrant-families

Resources for New FCPS Families

Are you new to the area and need help understanding school registration or connecting with your local school? The following resources are available for all families:

  • Family liaisons work in the schools and community to help families get the information and assistance they need to support their children and to ensure their academic success. Family liaisons represent a variety of cultures, languages, and races.
  • Family information phone lines are available in nine languages to assist families. A school system employee will respond to your call in your preferred language within 24 hours, Monday through Friday.

Visit the FCPS Family Academy webpage to learn how FCPS works to support the continued success and well-being of each and every student. 

No-Cost Virtual Therapy for High School Students

Virtual therapy sessions are available to FCPS high school students at no cost to provide a safe space to address concerns such as:

  • Mood/behavior changes, motivation, grief/loss
  • Anxiety, worry, fears
  • Social skills, bullying, peer and family relationships
  • Academic stress

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

Visit the FCPS Teletherapy webpage for more information.

FCPS Quick Links WSHS Social Media Find WSHS Spartans on: Need Help? Contact our Family Liaison

If you have questions about navigating the school, learning about FCPS resources, or getting your student setup for success, our Family Liaison can help.  Email  or sign up for Talking Points.  Use code the code T6AXZW

6100 Rolling Road, Springfield, VA 22152 | Main Office: 703-913-3800
Attendance: 703-913-3838 or [email protected] | Web

WSHS Spartan Weekly News_ February 7, 2024

GovDelivery2 weeks 6 days ago

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

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

UPCOMING EVENTS FEBRUARY

17: Washington's Birthday and President's Day (No School)

28: Ramadan begins at sundown

 

WSHS Calendars/Bell Schedules

NEWS AND NOTES Kiss and Ride Reminder

Please remember students may not be dropped off in the main parking lot (Tuttle Road entrance)  from 7:45am to 8:15am. 

Anyone entering through the main parking lot will not be permitted to exit until after 8:15am. Thank you!

Please follow the traffic map below

“Go Paperless” Progress Report Option 

Opt-in to receive “Paperless” Report Cards!

  • Parents and/or guardians will need to log into ParentVUE, click “My Account” and select "Go Paperless"
  • All parents and/or guardians who live with the student and share the same address must have a SIS ParentVUE account and must select the paperless option to prevent mailing of the printed progress reports.
  • The “Go Paperless” option will apply to all their associated students, no matter what school level.
  • If the associated parent and/or guardian has already selected “Go Paperless” for their secondary student, the option will now apply to any elementary siblings as well.

Report Cards are now available in your ParentVue and StudentVue under documents.  If you do not have a ParentVue account, please see below:

 

You can learn how to activate your account by going to this video or follow the following steps:

  1. Contact the office during regular school hours and request an activation letter for SIS ParentVue.
  2. The school will provide a letter with an activation key and detailed instructions that expires at 12:00 a.m. (midnight) on the date listed in the letter.
  3. Once you receive the activation key, go to https://sisparent.fcps.edu and click on More Options in the bottom right corner.
  4. Click on Activate Account
  5. Review the SIS Parent Account Privacy Policy and select I Agree
  6. Enter your First Name, Last Name, and Activation Key as they appear on the letter.
  7. Enter your email address (which will become your username) and a password that meets the minimum requirements.
  8. You will then receive an email from [email protected] to complete the activation.  Click the link in the email before it expires.
  9. You will receive your confirmation of activation in a second email.
  10. CONGRATS, you now have a SIS ParentVUE account!

 

Don't Miss Out—Order Your Yearbook Today!

Time is running out to secure a copy of this year’s WSHS yearbook! The Yearbook staff has been working hard to be sure this book is packed with unforgettable memories, student achievements, and all the moments that made this year special.  The yearbook is a keepsake your student will treasure for years to come.

Order Now: https://yearbookordercenter.com/job/4150

 

Don't wait—once they're gone, they're gone! Order yours today!

 Order your Purple Up! Day Gear!

April is the Month of the Military Child, a time to honor and celebrate the resilience, courage, and contributions of FCPS military-connected children.

To show our support, FCPS will celebrate Purple Up! Day on Wednesday, April 9, 2025. On this day, school staff and students are encouraged to wear purple, symbolizing unity and support for military families across all service branches. 

Purchase the FCPS Purple Up! T-shirt and/or hoodie between now and March 7 to wear on Purple Up! Day!

STUDENT SERVICES Academic Advising Timeline 2025-2026

Mark your calendars with the following dates to assist with choosing courses for next school year. ** Dates have been updated due to snow closures

 

  1. Pre-Advising Learning Seminar | Pre-Advising Lesson shared with Grades 9, 10, and 11 during LS to go over Academic Advising Process. 
  2. Academic Advising Rising Seniors | February 10-14, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  3. Academic Advising Rising Sophomores | February 17-24, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  4. Last Day to Make Class Schedule Requests for the 2025-2026 School Year | March 31, 2025
  5. **Future Spartan Orientation | April (TBD) |  Rising 9th graders will visit West Springfield HS 

Student Services Quick Links

🎒Academic Advising is Here!

Please visit our Student Services Schoology Course to explore the diverse course offerings available at West Springfield High School.

Under the "Academic" folder on our main page, you can delve deeper into our class offerings and make informed decisions about your future course selections.

We will begin meeting with:

  • Rising Juniors: February 3-7
  • Rising Seniors: February 10-14
  • Rising Sophomores: February 17-24

Counselors are currently conducting academic advising sessions and will continue to do so through the end of January.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact your counselor directly.

College Bound?  Apply for the College Partnership Program

What is CPP? The mission of the College Partnership Program (CPP) is to close the opportunity gap by preparing students for college readiness and success. CPP’s goal is to ensure that students capable of completing a college preparatory path will: succeed in rigorous curriculum, actively participate in the school community, enroll in a four-year college or another post-secondary program, and become responsible participants and leaders of society.


Would you benefit from the following elements?

●Having a trusted adult at school to touch base with about academics and social-emotional wellbeing
●Organizing your time, materials, thoughts, and writing
●Getting and staying motivated to succeed in school
●Exploring colleges, careers, and a variety of pathways to postsecondary success


Do you fit into ONE or more of the following categories?


●First in your family to attend a four-year college in the U.S.
●Need financial support to attend college
●Current GPA of 2.5 or above
●Determined to go to college
●Willing to take some advanced courses and put in the necessary work
●Good attendance record


If you’ve answered “yes” to any of the above, then CPP might be for you! Talk to your school counselor, as CPP just may be a good fit for you. Additional information about CPP is on the FCPS website.

 

Application : Due February 28th

ACADEMY OPEN HOUSES 2025

If you are interested in an Academy next year you will want to attend an Open House beginning in January.  More information can be found here.

Open Houses are a great opportunity to visit classroom and lab spaces, speak with instructors and Academy Counselors. For questions, contact Bonnie Wannett: [email protected]. 

 

Fairfax County Firefighting Program

 February 19, 2025

 

West Potomac Academy

February 20, 2025 6 to 8 p.m.

 

INTERESTED? ACTION NEEDED:

**If you know which Academy you're interested in, please also complete this form.  The form is only available to students using their fcpsschools.net account.

SENIORS Complete the ASVAB and receive a Career Readiness Medal at Graduation!

We are excited to share that in alignment with the VDOE accreditation standards, West Springfield High School will be recognizing students with a graduation medal, to be worn at commencement, for achievement in the areas of education, employment, and career readiness.  

The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB), a valuable career exploration tool that your student will have the opportunity to take at West Springfield High School on two upcoming dates. 

Seniors have two more opportunities to take the ASVAB. Students can register at the links:

  • February 10 – ASVAB (Seniors only, Register)
  • March 21 – ASVAB (10 - 12th Graders, Register)

If you have any questions or would like to discuss this further, please don't hesitate to contact our College and Career Specialist, Jeff Toomer, at [email protected], or phone (703) 913-3985. 

STUDENT CORNER 🌹SGA Flower Sale

Come  purchase a flower for a friend or Valentine during all lunches on Monday, February 10th!  

Flowers will be sold for $2 each. CASH ONLY!

Visit our site

🚗Learner's Permit Test at WSHS- 2nd Semester Dates!!

 

When: 3:10pm- specific dates below

Where: Room 2228

Cost: $25

2024-25 Dates: 2nd Semester shown below

  • February 27
  • March 20
  • April 3 and 24
  • May 22
  • June 5

 

Who can take the test: Students MUST be 15 years and 6 months old by the day of the test

  • This test is for Fairfax County Public School students ONLY (FCPS ID is required).
  •     If you have had 2 unsuccessful attempts at passing this test, then you are required to test at the DMV for your 3rd attempt.

 

Please read the instructions below carefully…

 

How to Register:

  1. Visit FCPS ACE and sign up for a specific date- fcps.edu
  2. Once registered on the FCPS ACE site, you must also register with the DMV. A link is provided during the ACE registration and in your confirmation email. Failure to register with the DMV will result in not being able to test since they issue the secure testing codes to FCPS proctors. 

 

The following are required to the take the test- bring them with you on your test day:

  • A picture ID to verify identity. If the student does not have a picture ID, take a picture, write the student's full legal name under the picture, and have a teacher sign to verify the student's identity.  You may also show your photo from SIS.
  • Earbuds/headphones to listen to directions and test audio (optional).

 

NEED TO PREPARE FOR THE LEARNERS PERMIT TEST? SIGN UP FOR ONE OF THE PREP COURSES!

These 90-minute classes are offered on Zoom and help to prepare students for the permit test. Sign up on aceclasses.fcps.edu. Dates for 2nd Semester are 2/26, 3/19, 4/23, 6/4. There may be more dates added later.

 

 

Send any questions to Casey Grubbs ([email protected])

ACTIVITIES

School Activities Calendar. Check it out. 

SPORTS  Spirit Wear and Tickets

If you don’t have Spartan spirit wear,  don’t worry -- the Booster Club will have plenty for sale!

The cost of all games is $5.00 for students and $7 for adults. 

To avoid long lines, we strongly encourage you to purchase a Season Pass, through our eTIX Site.  Or you can purchase individual game tickets here.

PLEASE VISIT our WEBSITE www.spartansports.net for more information and our game schedule.

Spartan Sports Calendar Feb 10-15 Stay in Touch with Spartan Sports! 

You can follow WSHS Spartan Sports on social media:

Website: www.spartansports.net

Instagram: @wshs_sports

Sign Up For the Sports and Activities News You Choose

ALL NIGHT GRAD PARTY Purchase Tickets: 2025 All Night Grad Party

 

The 2025 All Night Grad Party (ANGP) will be held on Monday June 9th at 11:00 pm through Tuesday June 10th at 5:00 am at The St. James Performance Club in Springfield, VA.

Visit the site for tickets and more information:

https://wshs-angp.square.site/

🎓Graduation Yard Signs

Yard Signs are on sale again this year for the ANGP!

Order the signs directly through the Fast Signs website  

Signs can be personalized and all proceeds will benefit the ANGP for the Class of 2025!!

FCPS NEWS IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

  • Proposed Budget Progress
  • Make Sure Your Child is Up-to-Date On Immunizations
  • Black History Month Event

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

 

Resources for Immigrant Families

https://www.fcps.edu/resources-immigrant-families

Resources for New FCPS Families

Are you new to the area and need help understanding school registration or connecting with your local school? The following resources are available for all families:

  • Family liaisons work in the schools and community to help families get the information and assistance they need to support their children and to ensure their academic success. Family liaisons represent a variety of cultures, languages, and races.
  • Family information phone lines are available in nine languages to assist families. A school system employee will respond to your call in your preferred language within 24 hours, Monday through Friday.

Visit the FCPS Family Academy webpage to learn how FCPS works to support the continued success and well-being of each and every student. 

No-Cost Virtual Therapy for High School Students

Virtual therapy sessions are available to FCPS high school students at no cost to provide a safe space to address concerns such as:

  • Mood/behavior changes, motivation, grief/loss
  • Anxiety, worry, fears
  • Social skills, bullying, peer and family relationships
  • Academic stress

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

Visit the FCPS Teletherapy webpage for more information.

FCPS Quick Links WSHS Social Media Find WSHS Spartans on: Need Help? Contact our Family Liaison

If you have questions about navigating the school, learning about FCPS resources, or getting your student setup for success, our Family Liaison can help.  Email  or sign up for Talking Points.  Use code the code T6AXZW

6100 Rolling Road, Springfield, VA 22152 | Main Office: 703-913-3800
Attendance: 703-913-3838 or [email protected] | Web

WSHS Spartan Weekly News_ January 31 2024

GovDelivery3 weeks 6 days ago

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

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

UPCOMING EVENTS FEBRUARY

17: Washington's Birthday and President's Day (No School)

28: Ramadan begins at sundown

 

WSHS Calendars/Bell Schedules

The Gradebook in SIS ParentVUE and StudentVUE will be closed for the end of the quarter from Tuesday, January 28, 4 p.m. to Tuesday, February 4, 6 a.m.

NEWS AND NOTES ACTION NEEDED: Immunization Policy Update

The Code of Virginia § 22.1-271.2 requires all students to be immunized against certain communicable diseases in order to attend Fairfax County Public Schools. Immunizations keep children and the community protected from vaccine preventable diseases.

Beginning Monday, May 19, students enrolled on or before December 20, 2024, that are non-compliant and do not have a current Immunization Action Plan in progress will be at-risk for exclusion. 

Parents and Caregivers who this effects HAVE BEEN NOTIFIED via email and Talking Points. What to do if you've been notified: 

  1. Check your child’s immunization compliance on ParentVUE.
  2.  Make an appointment with your healthcare provider or the health department now to ensure your child is up to date with immunizations.
  3. Submit acceptable documentation (see list below) to the school or enter documentation into ParentVUE directly

Before or by Monday, May 19, 2025, the school must receive ONE of the following acceptable immunization documents:

  • Immunization Record (must include the dates immunizations were received M/D/Y).
  • A written statement from a health care provider specifying all administered immunizations.
  • A health care provider’s written statement of permanent or temporary exemptions.
  • A notarized religious exemption form
  • Immunization Action Plan

FCPS How to Submit Immunization Documentation

Further Questions: email [email protected]

ACTION NEEDED: ParentVUE

West Springfield is going paperless!  Don't be left in the cold, activate your ParentVue today to stay fully connected to the school and have IMMEDIATE access to documents, grades, school assignments, and more!

 

IMPORTANT:

  • Email addresses can only be used ONCE to activate an account.  In order to activate a second account, a DIFFERENT email address must be used.
  • In order to have digital editing access,  the ENROLLING parent must activate the account with the email they have on file with the school.

You can learn how to activate your account by going to this video or follow these steps:

  1. Contact the office during regular school hours and request an activation letter for SIS ParentVUE or use this SIS Parent Assistance Form found on the WSHS Homepage
  2. The school will provide a letter with an activation key and detailed instructions that expires at 12:00 a.m. (midnight) on the date listed in the letter.
  3. Once you receive the activation key, go to https://sisparent.fcps.edu and click on More Options in the bottom right corner.
  4. Click on Activate Account
  5. Review the SIS Parent Account Privacy Policy and select I Agree
  6. Enter your First Name, Last Name, and Activation Key as they appear on the letter.
  7. Enter your email address (which will become your username) and a password that meets the minimum requirements.
  8. You will then receive an email from [email protected] to complete the activation.  Click the link in the email before it expires.
  9. You will receive your confirmation of activation in a second email.
  10. CONGRATS, you now have a SIS ParentVUE account!

 

For more information, help, or to access translations please go to this site.

Need further assistance? Contact our Family Liaison, Ashley Springsteen at [email protected]

STUDENT SERVICES Academic Advising Timeline 2025-2026

Mark your calendars with the following dates to assist with choosing courses for next school year. ** Dates have been updated due to snow closures

 

  1. Pre-Advising Learning Seminar | Pre-Advising Lesson shared with Grades 9, 10, and 11 during LS to go over Academic Advising Process. 
  2. Academic Advising Rising Juniors | February 3-7, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  3. Academic Advising Rising Seniors | February 10-14, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  4. Academic Advising Rising Sophomores | February 17-24, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  5. Last Day to Make Class Schedule Requests for the 2025-2026 School Year | March 31, 2025
  6. **Future Spartan Orientation | April (TBD) |  Rising 9th graders will visit West Springfield HS 

Student Services Quick Links

College Bound?  Apply for the College Partnership Program

What is CPP? The mission of the College Partnership Program (CPP) is to close the opportunity gap by preparing students for college readiness and success. CPP’s goal is to ensure that students capable of completing a college preparatory path will: succeed in rigorous curriculum, actively participate in the school community, enroll in a four-year college or another post-secondary program, and become responsible participants and leaders of society.


Would you benefit from the following elements?

●Having a trusted adult at school to touch base with about academics and social-emotional wellbeing
●Organizing your time, materials, thoughts, and writing
●Getting and staying motivated to succeed in school
●Exploring colleges, careers, and a variety of pathways to postsecondary success


Do you fit into ONE or more of the following categories?


●First in your family to attend a four-year college in the U.S.
●Need financial support to attend college
●Current GPA of 2.5 or above
●Determined to go to college
●Willing to take some advanced courses and put in the necessary work
●Good attendance record


If you’ve answered “yes” to any of the above, then CPP might be for you! Talk to your school counselor, as CPP just may be a good fit for you. Additional information about CPP is on the FCPS website.

 

Application : Due February 28th

🎒Academic Advising is Here!

Please visit our Student Services Schoology Course to explore the diverse course offerings available at West Springfield High School.

Under the "Academic" folder on our main page, you can delve deeper into our class offerings and make informed decisions about your future course selections.

We will begin meeting with:

  • Rising Juniors: February 3-7
  • Rising Seniors: February 10-14
  • Rising Sophomores: February 17-24

Counselors are currently conducting academic advising sessions and will continue to do so through the end of January.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact your counselor directly.

ACADEMY OPEN HOUSES 2025

If you are interested in an Academy next year you will want to attend an Open House beginning in January.  More information can be found here.

Open Houses are a great opportunity to visit classroom and lab spaces, speak with instructors and Academy Counselors. For questions, contact Bonnie Wannett: [email protected]. 

 

Location Date Time      

 

Edison Academy 

 

February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

 

Fairfax Academy

 

February 4, 2025  6:30 to 8 p.m.            

 

West Potomac Academy

 

February 20, 2025  6 to 8 p.m.

 

Fairfax County Firefighting Program

 

  February 19, 2025

 

INTERESTED? ACTION NEEDED:

**If you know which Academy you're interested in, please also complete this form.  The form is only available to students using their fcpsschools.net account.

SENIORS Complete the ASVAB and receive a Career Readiness Medal at Graduation!

We are excited to share that in alignment with the VDOE accreditation standards, West Springfield High School will be recognizing students with a graduation medal, to be worn at commencement, for achievement in the areas of education, employment, and career readiness.  

The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB), a valuable career exploration tool that your student will have the opportunity to take at West Springfield High School on two upcoming dates. 

Seniors have two more opportunities to take the ASVAB. Students can register at the links:

  • February 10 – ASVAB (Seniors only, Register)
  • March 21 – ASVAB (10 - 12th Graders, Register)

If you have any questions or would like to discuss this further, please don't hesitate to contact our College and Career Specialist, Jeff Toomer, at [email protected], or phone (703) 913-3985. 

STUDENT CORNER

Visit our site

🚗Learner's Permit Test at WSHS- 2nd Semester Dates!!

 

When: 3:10pm- specific dates below

Where: Room 2228

Cost: $25

2024-25 Dates: 2nd Semester shown below

  • February 6 and 27
  • March 20
  • April 3 and 24
  • May 22
  • June 5

 

Who can take the test: Students MUST be 15 years and 6 months old by the day of the test

  • This test is for Fairfax County Public School students ONLY (FCPS ID is required).
  •     If you have had 2 unsuccessful attempts at passing this test, then you are required to test at the DMV for your 3rd attempt.

 

Please read the instructions below carefully…

 

How to Register:

  1. Visit FCPS ACE and sign up for a specific date- fcps.edu
  2. Once registered on the FCPS ACE site, you must also register with the DMV. A link is provided during the ACE registration and in your confirmation email. Failure to register with the DMV will result in not being able to test since they issue the secure testing codes to FCPS proctors. 

 

The following are required to the take the test- bring them with you on your test day:

  • A picture ID to verify identity. If the student does not have a picture ID, take a picture, write the student's full legal name under the picture, and have a teacher sign to verify the student's identity.  You may also show your photo from SIS.
  • Earbuds/headphones to listen to directions and test audio (optional).

 

NEED TO PREPARE FOR THE LEARNERS PERMIT TEST? SIGN UP FOR ONE OF THE PREP COURSES!

These 90-minute classes are offered on Zoom and help to prepare students for the permit test. Sign up on aceclasses.fcps.edu. Dates for 2nd Semester are 2/26, 3/19, 4/23, 6/4. There may be more dates added later.

 

 

Send any questions to Casey Grubbs ([email protected])

ACTIVITIES

School Activities Calendar. Check it out. 

SPORTS  Spirit Wear and Tickets

If you don’t have Spartan spirit wear,  don’t worry -- the Booster Club will have plenty for sale!

The cost of all games is $5.00 for students and $7 for adults. 

To avoid long lines, we strongly encourage you to purchase a Season Pass, through our eTIX Site.  Or you can purchase individual game tickets here.

PLEASE VISIT our WEBSITE www.spartansports.net for more information and our game schedule.

Spartan Sports Calendar Feb 1-8 Stay in Touch with Spartan Sports! 

You can follow WSHS Spartan Sports on social media:

Website: www.spartansports.net

Instagram: @wshs_sports

Sign Up For the Sports and Activities News You Choose

ALL NIGHT GRAD PARTY 📅SAVE THE DATE: 2025 All Night Grad Party

 

The 2025 All Night Grad Party (ANGP) will be held on Monday June 9th at 11:00 pm through Tuesday June 10th at 5:00 am at The St. James Performance Club in Springfield, VA.

 

Details and ticket sales coming soon. 

🎓Graduation Yard Signs

Yard Signs are on sale again this year for the ANGP!

Order the signs directly through the Fast Signs website  

Signs can be personalized and all proceeds will benefit the ANGP for the Class of 2025!!

PTSA 💻LAST CHANCE: Practice SAT Opportunity

Saturday, Feb. 1, 9 a.m. (If you can’t make it on Feb. 1, e-mail us and we can try to work something out)

PTSA Member:$5 

Non-members: $20

Visit the PTSA store to sign up!

Just to be clear: you can join the PTSA first at the same site, and then sign up for the practice test at the lower price! Membership has its benefits!

This is a PTSA fundraiser: all funds go to the PTSA.

Questions? e-mail us at [email protected]

 

https://wshsptsa.net/  

FCPS NEWS IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

  • FY 2026 Proposed Budget
  • Black History Month Kick-Off Celebration
  • Free Webinars and Events for Families

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today. 

 

Resources for New FCPS Families

Are you new to the area and need help understanding school registration or connecting with your local school? The following resources are available for all families:

  • Family liaisons work in the schools and community to help families get the information and assistance they need to support their children and to ensure their academic success. Family liaisons represent a variety of cultures, languages, and races.
  • Family information phone lines are available in nine languages to assist families. A school system employee will respond to your call in your preferred language within 24 hours, Monday through Friday.

Visit the FCPS Family Academy webpage to learn how FCPS works to support the continued success and well-being of each and every student. 

No-Cost Virtual Therapy for High School Students

Virtual therapy sessions are available to FCPS high school students at no cost to provide a safe space to address concerns such as:

  • Mood/behavior changes, motivation, grief/loss
  • Anxiety, worry, fears
  • Social skills, bullying, peer and family relationships
  • Academic stress

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

Visit the FCPS Teletherapy webpage for more information.

FCPS Quick Links WSHS Social Media Find WSHS Spartans on: Need Help? Contact our Family Liaison

If you have questions about navigating the school, learning about FCPS resources, or getting your student setup for success, our Family Liaison can help.  Email  or sign up for Talking Points.  Use code the code T6AXZW

6100 Rolling Road, Springfield, VA 22152 | Main Office: 703-913-3800
Attendance: 703-913-3838 or [email protected] | Web

**CORRECTION: WSHS Spartan Weekly News_ January 24, 2024

GovDelivery1 month ago

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

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

UPCOMING EVENTS JANUARY

1/28: End of Quarter 2 (Full School Day)

1/28: Spartans Got Talent, 7 p.m.,  Auditorium

1/29: Teacher Workday (Student Holiday)

1/30: Quarter 3 starts (Classes Resume)

 

WSHS Calendars/Bell Schedules

The Gradebook in SIS ParentVUE and StudentVUE will be closed for the end of the quarter from Tuesday, January 28, 4 p.m. to Tuesday, February 4, 6 a.m.

NEWS AND NOTES ACTION NEEDED: Immunization Policy Update

The Code of Virginia § 22.1-271.2 requires all students to be immunized against certain communicable diseases in order to attend Fairfax County Public Schools. Immunizations keep children and the community protected from vaccine preventable diseases.

Beginning Monday, May 19, students enrolled on or before December 20, 2024, that are non-compliant and do not have a current Immunization Action Plan in progress will be at-risk for exclusion. 

Parents and Caregivers who this effects HAVE BEEN NOTIFIED via email and Talking Points. What to do if you've been notified: 

  1. Check your child’s immunization compliance on ParentVUE.
  2.  Make an appointment with your healthcare provider or the health department now to ensure your child is up to date with immunizations.
  3. Submit acceptable documentation (see list below) to the school or enter documentation into ParentVUE directly

Before or by Monday, May 19, 2025, the school must receive ONE of the following acceptable immunization documents:

  • Immunization Record (must include the dates immunizations were received M/D/Y).
  • A written statement from a health care provider specifying all administered immunizations.
  • A health care provider’s written statement of permanent or temporary exemptions.
  • A notarized religious exemption form
  • Immunization Action Plan

FCPS How to Submit Immunization Documentation

Further Questions: email [email protected]

ACTION NEEDED: ParentVUE

West Springfield is going paperless!  Don't be left in the cold, activate your ParentVue today to stay fully connected to the school and have IMMEDIATE access to documents, grades, school assignments, and more!

 

IMPORTANT:

  • Email addresses can only be used ONCE to activate an account.  In order to activate a second account, a DIFFERENT email address must be used.
  • In order to have digital editing access,  the ENROLLING parent must activate the account with the email they have on file with the school.

You can learn how to activate your account by going to this video or follow these steps:

  1. Contact the office during regular school hours and request an activation letter for SIS ParentVUE or use this SIS Parent Assistance Form found on the WSHS Homepage
  2. The school will provide a letter with an activation key and detailed instructions that expires at 12:00 a.m. (midnight) on the date listed in the letter.
  3. Once you receive the activation key, go to https://sisparent.fcps.edu and click on More Options in the bottom right corner.
  4. Click on Activate Account
  5. Review the SIS Parent Account Privacy Policy and select I Agree
  6. Enter your First Name, Last Name, and Activation Key as they appear on the letter.
  7. Enter your email address (which will become your username) and a password that meets the minimum requirements.
  8. You will then receive an email from [email protected] to complete the activation.  Click the link in the email before it expires.
  9. You will receive your confirmation of activation in a second email.
  10. CONGRATS, you now have a SIS ParentVUE account!

 

For more information, help, or to access translations please go to this site.

Need further assistance? Contact our Family Liaison, Ashley Springsteen at [email protected]

📱SR&R and Cell Phone Policy Survey Coming Soon

All FCPS families and middle and high school students will be receiving an email invitation on Tuesday, January 21, to participate in a survey about FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R), cell phone policy, and cell phone storage options. The survey will be available from January 21 to February 3. Please take a few moments to share your feedback and help FCPS make informed, inclusive decisions for all of our schools!

STUDENT SERVICES Academic Advising Timeline 2025-2026

Mark your calendars with the following dates to assist with choosing courses for next school year. ** Dates have been updated due to snow closures

  1. Academic Days of Emphasis | January 16-22, 2025 | Student in Grades 9, 10, and 11, will meet with their current teachers to discuss their feedback.
  2. Pre-Advising Learning Seminar | Pre-Advising Lesson shared with Grades 9, 10, and 11 during LS to go over Academic Advising Process. 
  3. Curriculum Fair | Opportunity for students to visit different classes and get information on specific classes in which they may be interested. 
  4. Academic Advising Rising Juniors | February 3-7, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  5. Academic Advising Rising Seniors | February 10-14, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  6. Academic Advising Rising Sophomores | February 17-24, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  7. Last Day to Make Class Schedule Requests for the 2025-2026 School Year | March 31, 2025
  8. **Future Spartan Orientation | April (TBD) |  Rising 9th graders will visit West Springfield HS 

Student Services Quick Links

College Bound?  Apply for the College Partnership Program

What is CPP? The mission of the College Partnership Program (CPP) is to close the opportunity gap by preparing students for college readiness and success. CPP’s goal is to ensure that students capable of completing a college preparatory path will: succeed in rigorous curriculum, actively participate in the school community, enroll in a four-year college or another post-secondary program, and become responsible participants and leaders of society.


Would you benefit from the following elements?

●Having a trusted adult at school to touch base with about academics and social-emotional wellbeing
●Organizing your time, materials, thoughts, and writing
●Getting and staying motivated to succeed in school
●Exploring colleges, careers, and a variety of pathways to postsecondary success


Do you fit into ONE or more of the following categories?


●First in your family to attend a four-year college in the U.S.
●Need financial support to attend college
●Current GPA of 2.5 or above
●Determined to go to college
●Willing to take some advanced courses and put in the necessary work
●Good attendance record


If you’ve answered “yes” to any of the above, then CPP might be for you! Talk to your school counselor, as CPP just may be a good fit for you. Additional information about CPP is on the FCPS website.

 

Application : Due February 28th

🎒Academic Advising is Here!

Please visit our Student Services Schoology Course to explore the diverse course offerings available at West Springfield High School.

Under the "Academic" folder on our main page, you can delve deeper into our class offerings and make informed decisions about your future course selections.

We will begin meeting with:

  • Rising Juniors: February 3-7
  • Rising Seniors: February 10-14
  • Rising Sophomores: February 17-24

Counselors are currently conducting academic advising sessions and will continue to do so through the end of January.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact your counselor directly.

ACADEMY OPEN HOUSES 2025

If you are interested in an Academy next year you will want to attend an Open House beginning in January.  More information can be found here.

Open Houses are a great opportunity to visit classroom and lab spaces, speak with instructors and Academy Counselors. For questions, contact Bonnie Wannett: [email protected]. 

 

Location Date Time      

 

Edison Academy 

 

February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

 

Fairfax Academy

 

February 4, 2025  6:30 to 8 p.m.      

 

Marshall Academy

 

January 30, 2025  4:30 to 6 p.m.

 

West Potomac Academy

 

February 20, 2025  6 to 8 p.m.

 

Fairfax County Firefighting Program

 

  February 19, 2025

 

INTERESTED? ACTION NEEDED:

**If you know which Academy you're interested in, please also complete this form.  The form is only available to students using their fcpsschools.net account.

SPARTAN SPOTLIGHT

Bravo! Congrats to Shanaiah Fajardo & Paige Cunniff on a wonderful Senior District Orchestra performance. They spent last weekend under the direction of Jonathan Handman and performed in the Concert Hall at George Mason University.  SPARTAN STRONG!

District Honor Orchestra performers Shanaiah Fjardo and Paige Cunniff with Orchestra Director Alexandra Blaine

SENIORS Complete the ASVAB and receive a Career Readiness Medal at Graduation!

We are excited to share that in alignment with the VDOE accreditation standards, West Springfield High School will be recognizing students with a graduation medal, to be worn at commencement, for achievement in the areas of education, employment, and career readiness.  

The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB), a valuable career exploration tool that your student will have the opportunity to take at West Springfield High School on two upcoming dates. 

Seniors have two more opportunities to take the ASVAB. Students can register at the links:

  • February 10 – ASVAB (Seniors only, Register)
  • March 21 – ASVAB (10 - 12th Graders, Register)

If you have any questions or would like to discuss this further, please don't hesitate to contact our College and Career Specialist, Jeff Toomer, at [email protected], or phone (703) 913-3985. 

STUDENT CORNER Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) Opportunity

Free Online Leadership Program for 9-12 Graders Going to College through Edu-Futuro 

https://edu-futuro.org/youth-programs/

Additionally, writing and speech competition scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $500, allowing students to gain recognition for their efforts and further support their educational goals.

Program Starts Virtually, January 30th 6-8 p.m. 

Visit our site

🚗Learner's Permit Test at WSHS- 2nd Semester Dates!!

 

When: 3:10pm- specific dates below

Where: Room 2228

Cost: $25

2024-25 Dates: 2nd Semester shown below

  • February 6 and 27
  • March 20
  • April 3 and 24
  • May 22
  • June 5

 

Who can take the test: Students MUST be 15 years and 6 months old by the day of the test

  • This test is for Fairfax County Public School students ONLY (FCPS ID is required).
  •     If you have had 2 unsuccessful attempts at passing this test, then you are required to test at the DMV for your 3rd attempt.

 

Please read the instructions below carefully…

 

How to Register:

  1. Visit FCPS ACE and sign up for a specific date- fcps.edu
  2. Once registered on the FCPS ACE site, you must also register with the DMV. A link is provided during the ACE registration and in your confirmation email. Failure to register with the DMV will result in not being able to test since they issue the secure testing codes to FCPS proctors. 

 

The following are required to the take the test- bring them with you on your test day:

  • A picture ID to verify identity. If the student does not have a picture ID, take a picture, write the student's full legal name under the picture, and have a teacher sign to verify the student's identity.  You may also show your photo from SIS.
  • Earbuds/headphones to listen to directions and test audio (optional).

 

**NEED TO PREPARE FOR THE LEARNERS PERMIT TEST? SIGN UP FOR ONE OF THE PREP COURSES!

These 90-minute classes are offered on Zoom and help to prepare students for the permit test. Sign up on aceclasses.fcps.edu. Dates for 2nd Semester are 2/26, 3/19, 4/23, 6/4. There may be more dates added later.

 

 

Send any questions to Casey Grubbs ([email protected])

ACTIVITIES SPARTAN TALENT SHOW

Tuesday, Jan 28, 7 p.m. 

Auditorium

School Activities Calendar. Check it out. 

SPORTS  Spirit Wear and Tickets

If you don’t have Spartan spirit wear,  don’t worry -- the Booster Club will have plenty for sale!

The cost of all games is $5.00 for students and $7 for adults. 

To avoid long lines, we strongly encourage you to purchase a Season Pass, through our eTIX Site.  Or you can purchase individual game tickets here.

PLEASE VISIT our WEBSITE www.spartansports.net for more information and our game schedule.

Spartan Sports Calendar Jan 26-Feb 1 Stay in Touch with Spartan Sports! 

You can follow WSHS Spartan Sports on social media:

Website: www.spartansports.net

Instagram: @wshs_sports

Sign Up For the Sports and Activities News You Choose

ALL NIGHT GRAD PARTY 📅SAVE THE DATE: 2025 All Night Grad Party

 

The 2025 All Night Grad Party (ANGP) will be held on Monday June 9th at 11:00 pm through Tuesday June 10th at 5:00 am at The St. James Performance Club in Springfield, VA.

 

Details and ticket sales coming soon. 

🎓Graduation Yard Signs

Yard Signs are on sale again this year for the ANGP!

Order the signs directly through the Fast Signs website  

Signs can be personalized and all proceeds will benefit the ANGP for the Class of 2025!!

PTSA 💻Practice SAT Opportunity

Saturday, Feb. 1, 9 a.m. (If you can’t make it on Feb. 1, e-mail us and we can try to work something out)

PTSA Member:$5 

Non-members: $20

Visit the PTSA store to sign up!

Just to be clear: you can join the PTSA first at the same site, and then sign up for the practice test at the lower price! Membership has its benefits!

This is a PTSA fundraiser: all funds go to the PTSA.

Questions? e-mail us at [email protected]

 

https://wshsptsa.net/  

FCPS NEWS IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

  • SOL Score Reports
  • Upcoming Budget Presentation
  • Fight Drug Abuse

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

Resources for New FCPS Families

Are you new to the area and need help understanding school registration or connecting with your local school? The following resources are available for all families:

  • Family liaisons work in the schools and community to help families get the information and assistance they need to support their children and to ensure their academic success. Family liaisons represent a variety of cultures, languages, and races.
  • Family information phone lines are available in nine languages to assist families. A school system employee will respond to your call in your preferred language within 24 hours, Monday through Friday.

Visit the FCPS Family Academy webpage to learn how FCPS works to support the continued success and well-being of each and every student. 

No-Cost Virtual Therapy for High School Students

Virtual therapy sessions are available to FCPS high school students at no cost to provide a safe space to address concerns such as:

  • Mood/behavior changes, motivation, grief/loss
  • Anxiety, worry, fears
  • Social skills, bullying, peer and family relationships
  • Academic stress

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

Visit the FCPS Teletherapy webpage for more information.

FCPS Quick Links WSHS Social Media Find WSHS Spartans on: Need Help? Contact our Family Liaison

If you have questions about navigating the school, learning about FCPS resources, or getting your student setup for success, our Family Liaison can help.  Email  or sign up for Talking Points.  Use code the code T6AXZW

6100 Rolling Road, Springfield, VA 22152 | Main Office: 703-913-3800
Attendance: 703-913-3838 or [email protected] | Web

WSHS Spartan Weekly News_ January 24, 2024

GovDelivery1 month ago

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

UPCOMING EVENTS JANUARY

1/28: End of Quarter 2 (Full School Day)

1/28: Spartans Got Talent, 7 p.m.,  Auditorium

1/29: Teacher Workday (Student Holiday)

1/30: Quarter 3 starts (Classes Resume)

 

WSHS Calendars/Bell Schedules

The Gradebook in SIS ParentVUE and StudentVUE will be closed for the end of the quarter from Tuesday, January 28, 4 p.m. to Tuesday, February 4, 6 a.m.

NEWS AND NOTES ACTION NEEDED: Immunization Policy Update

The Code of Virginia § 22.1-271.2 requires all students to be immunized against certain communicable diseases in order to attend Fairfax County Public Schools. Immunizations keep children and the community protected from vaccine preventable diseases.

Beginning Monday, May 19, students enrolled on or before December 20, 2024, that are non-compliant and do not have a current Immunization Action Plan in progress will be at-risk for exclusion. 

Parents and Caregivers who this effects HAVE BEEN NOTIFIED via email and Talking Points. What to do if you've been notified: 

  1. Check your child’s immunization compliance on ParentVUE.
  2.  Make an appointment with your healthcare provider or the health department now to ensure your child is up to date with immunizations.
  3. Submit acceptable documentation (see list below) to the school or enter documentation into ParentVUE directly

Before or by Monday, May 19, 2025, the school must receive ONE of the following acceptable immunization documents:

  • Immunization Record (must include the dates immunizations were received M/D/Y).
  • A written statement from a health care provider specifying all administered immunizations.
  • A health care provider’s written statement of permanent or temporary exemptions.
  • A notarized religious exemption form
  • Immunization Action Plan

FCPS How to Submit Immunization Documentation

Further Questions: email [email protected]

ACTION NEEDED: ParentVUE

West Springfield is going paperless!  Don't be left in the cold, activate your ParentVue today to stay fully connected to the school and have IMMEDIATE access to documents, grades, school assignments, and more!

 

IMPORTANT:

  • Email addresses can only be used ONCE to activate an account.  In order to activate a second account, a DIFFERENT email address must be used.
  • In order to have digital editing access,  the ENROLLING parent must activate the account with the email they have on file with the school.

You can learn how to activate your account by going to this video or follow these steps:

  1. Contact the office during regular school hours and request an activation letter for SIS ParentVUE or use this SIS Parent Assistance Form found on the WSHS Homepage
  2. The school will provide a letter with an activation key and detailed instructions that expires at 12:00 a.m. (midnight) on the date listed in the letter.
  3. Once you receive the activation key, go to https://sisparent.fcps.edu and click on More Options in the bottom right corner.
  4. Click on Activate Account
  5. Review the SIS Parent Account Privacy Policy and select I Agree
  6. Enter your First Name, Last Name, and Activation Key as they appear on the letter.
  7. Enter your email address (which will become your username) and a password that meets the minimum requirements.
  8. You will then receive an email from [email protected] to complete the activation.  Click the link in the email before it expires.
  9. You will receive your confirmation of activation in a second email.
  10. CONGRATS, you now have a SIS ParentVUE account!

 

For more information, help, or to access translations please go to this site.

Need further assistance? Contact our Family Liaison, Ashley Springsteen at [email protected]

📱SR&R and Cell Phone Policy Survey Coming Soon

All FCPS families and middle and high school students will be receiving an email invitation on Tuesday, January 21, to participate in a survey about FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R), cell phone policy, and cell phone storage options. The survey will be available from January 21 to February 3. Please take a few moments to share your feedback and help FCPS make informed, inclusive decisions for all of our schools!

STUDENT SERVICES Academic Advising Timeline 2025-2026

Mark your calendars with the following dates to assist with choosing courses for next school year. ** Dates have been updated due to snow closures

  1. Academic Days of Emphasis | January 16-22, 2025 | Student in Grades 9, 10, and 11, will meet with their current teachers to discuss their feedback.
  2. Pre-Advising Learning Seminar | Pre-Advising Lesson shared with Grades 9, 10, and 11 during LS to go over Academic Advising Process. 
  3. Curriculum Fair | Opportunity for students to visit different classes and get information on specific classes in which they may be interested. 
  4. Academic Advising Rising Juniors | February 3-7, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  5. Academic Advising Rising Seniors | February 10-14, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  6. Academic Advising Rising Sophomores | February 17-24, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  7. Last Day to Make Class Schedule Requests for the 2025-2026 School Year | March 31, 2025
  8. **Future Spartan Orientation | April (TBD) |  Rising 9th graders will visit West Springfield HS 

Student Services Quick Links

College Bound?  Apply for the College Partnership Program

What is CPP? The mission of the College Partnership Program (CPP) is to close the opportunity gap by preparing students for college readiness and success. CPP’s goal is to ensure that students capable of completing a college preparatory path will: succeed in rigorous curriculum, actively participate in the school community, enroll in a four-year college or another post-secondary program, and become responsible participants and leaders of society.


Would you benefit from the following elements?

●Having a trusted adult at school to touch base with about academics and social-emotional wellbeing
●Organizing your time, materials, thoughts, and writing
●Getting and staying motivated to succeed in school
●Exploring colleges, careers, and a variety of pathways to postsecondary success


Do you fit into ONE or more of the following categories?


●First in your family to attend a four-year college in the U.S.
●Need financial support to attend college
●Current GPA of 2.5 or above
●Determined to go to college
●Willing to take some advanced courses and put in the necessary work
●Good attendance record


If you’ve answered “yes” to any of the above, then CPP might be for you! Talk to your school counselor, as CPP just may be a good fit for you. Additional information about CPP is on the FCPS website.

 

Application : Due February 28th

🎒Academic Advising is Here!

Please visit our Student Services Schoology Course to explore the diverse course offerings available at West Springfield High School.

Under the "Academic" folder on our main page, you can delve deeper into our class offerings and make informed decisions about your future course selections.

We will begin meeting with:

  • Rising Juniors: February 3-7
  • Rising Seniors: February 10-14
  • Rising Sophomores: February 17-24

Counselors are currently conducting academic advising sessions and will continue to do so through the end of January.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact your counselor directly.

ACADEMY OPEN HOUSES 2025

If you are interested in an Academy next year you will want to attend an Open House beginning in January.  More information can be found here.

Open Houses are a great opportunity to visit classroom and lab spaces, speak with instructors and Academy Counselors. For questions, contact Bonnie Wannett: [email protected]. 

 

Location Date Time      

 

Edison Academy 

 

February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

 

Fairfax Academy

 

February 4, 2025  6:30 to 8 p.m.      

 

Marshall Academy

 

January 30, 2025  4:30 to 6 p.m.

 

West Potomac Academy

 

February 20, 2025  6 to 8 p.m.

 

Fairfax County Firefighting Program

 

  February 19, 2025

 

INTERESTED? ACTION NEEDED:

**If you know which Academy you're interested in, please also complete this form.  The form is only available to students using their fcpsschools.net account.

SPARTAN SPOTLIGHT

Bravo! Congrats to Shanaiah Fajardo & Paige Cunniff on a wonderful Senior District Orchestra performance. They spent last weekend under the direction of Jonathan Handman and performed in the Concert Hall at George Mason University.  SPARTAN STRONG!

District Honor Orchestra performers Shanaiah Fjardo and Paige Cunniff with Orchestra Director Alexandra Blaine

SENIORS Complete the ASVAB and receive a Career Readiness Medal at Graduation!

We are excited to share that in alignment with the VDOE accreditation standards, West Springfield High School will be recognizing students with a graduation medal, to be worn at commencement, for achievement in the areas of education, employment, and career readiness.  

The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB), a valuable career exploration tool that your student will have the opportunity to take at West Springfield High School on two upcoming dates. 

Seniors have two more opportunities to take the ASVAB. Students can register at the links:

  • February 10 – ASVAB (Seniors only, Register)
  • March 21 – ASVAB (10 - 12th Graders, Register)

If you have any questions or would like to discuss this further, please don't hesitate to contact our College and Career Specialist, Jeff Toomer, at [email protected], or phone (703) 913-3985. 

STUDENT CORNER Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) Opportunity

Free Online Leadership Program for 9-12 Graders Going to College through Edu-Futuro 

https://edu-futuro.org/youth-programs/

Additionally, writing and speech competition scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $500, allowing students to gain recognition for their efforts and further support their educational goals.

Program Starts Virtually, January 30th 6-8 p.m. 

Visit our site

🚗Learner's Permit Test at WSHS- 2nd Semester Dates!!

 

When: 3:10pm- specific dates below

Where: Room 2228

Cost: $25

2024-25 Dates: 2nd Semester shown below

  • February 6 and 27
  • March 20
  • April 3 and 24
  • May 22
  • June 5

 

Who can take the test: Students MUST be 15 years and 6 months old by the day of the test

  • This test is for Fairfax County Public School students ONLY (FCPS ID is required).
  •     If you have had 2 unsuccessful attempts at passing this test, then you are required to test at the DMV for your 3rd attempt.

 

Please read the instructions below carefully…

 

How to Register:

  1. Visit FCPS ACE and sign up for a specific date- fcps.edu
  2. Once registered on the FCPS ACE site, you must also register with the DMV. A link is provided during the ACE registration and in your confirmation email. Failure to register with the DMV will result in not being able to test since they issue the secure testing codes to FCPS proctors. 

 

The following are required to the take the test- bring them with you on your test day:

  • A picture ID to verify identity. If the student does not have a picture ID, take a picture, write the student's full legal name under the picture, and have a teacher sign to verify the student's identity.  You may also show your photo from SIS.
  • Earbuds/headphones to listen to directions and test audio (optional).

 

NEED TO PREPARE FOR THE LEARNERS PERMIT TEST? SIGN UP FOR ONE OF THE PREP COURSES!

These 90-minute classes are offered on Zoom and help to prepare students for the permit test. Sign up on aceclasses.fcps.edu. Dates for 1st Semester are 9/25, 10/21, 11/18, 12/4, 1/8.

 

Send any questions to Casey Grubbs ([email protected])

ACTIVITIES SPARTAN TALENT SHOW

Tuesday, Jan 28, 7 p.m. 

Auditorium

School Activities Calendar. Check it out. 

SPORTS  Spirit Wear and Tickets

If you don’t have Spartan spirit wear,  don’t worry -- the Booster Club will have plenty for sale!

The cost of all games is $5.00 for students and $7 for adults. 

To avoid long lines, we strongly encourage you to purchase a Season Pass, through our eTIX Site.  Or you can purchase individual game tickets here.

PLEASE VISIT our WEBSITE www.spartansports.net for more information and our game schedule.

Spartan Sports Calendar Jan 26-Feb 1 Stay in Touch with Spartan Sports! 

You can follow WSHS Spartan Sports on social media:

Website: www.spartansports.net

Instagram: @wshs_sports

Sign Up For the Sports and Activities News You Choose

ALL NIGHT GRAD PARTY 📅SAVE THE DATE: 2025 All Night Grad Party

 

The 2025 All Night Grad Party (ANGP) will be held on Monday June 9th at 11:00 pm through Tuesday June 10th at 5:00 am at The St. James Performance Club in Springfield, VA.

 

Details and ticket sales coming soon. 

🎓Graduation Yard Signs

Yard Signs are on sale again this year for the ANGP!

Order the signs directly through the Fast Signs website  

Signs can be personalized and all proceeds will benefit the ANGP for the Class of 2025!!

PTSA 💻Practice SAT Opportunity

Saturday, Feb. 1, 9 a.m. (If you can’t make it on Feb. 1, e-mail us and we can try to work something out)

PTSA Member:$5 

Non-members: $20

Visit the PTSA store to sign up!

Just to be clear: you can join the PTSA first at the same site, and then sign up for the practice test at the lower price! Membership has its benefits!

This is a PTSA fundraiser: all funds go to the PTSA.

Questions? e-mail us at [email protected]

 

https://wshsptsa.net/  

FCPS NEWS IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

  • SOL Score Reports
  • Upcoming Budget Presentation
  • Fight Drug Abuse

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

Resources for New FCPS Families

Are you new to the area and need help understanding school registration or connecting with your local school? The following resources are available for all families:

  • Family liaisons work in the schools and community to help families get the information and assistance they need to support their children and to ensure their academic success. Family liaisons represent a variety of cultures, languages, and races.
  • Family information phone lines are available in nine languages to assist families. A school system employee will respond to your call in your preferred language within 24 hours, Monday through Friday.

Visit the FCPS Family Academy webpage to learn how FCPS works to support the continued success and well-being of each and every student. 

No-Cost Virtual Therapy for High School Students

Virtual therapy sessions are available to FCPS high school students at no cost to provide a safe space to address concerns such as:

  • Mood/behavior changes, motivation, grief/loss
  • Anxiety, worry, fears
  • Social skills, bullying, peer and family relationships
  • Academic stress

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

Visit the FCPS Teletherapy webpage for more information.

FCPS Quick Links WSHS Social Media Find WSHS Spartans on: Need Help? Contact our Family Liaison

If you have questions about navigating the school, learning about FCPS resources, or getting your student setup for success, our Family Liaison can help.  Email  or sign up for Talking Points.  Use code the code T6AXZW

6100 Rolling Road, Springfield, VA 22152 | Main Office: 703-913-3800
Attendance: 703-913-3838 or [email protected] | Web

WSHS Spartan Weekly News_ January 17, 2024

GovDelivery1 month 1 week ago

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

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

UPCOMING EVENTS JANUARY

1/20: MLK Jr. Day/Inauguration Day (No School)

1/28: End of Quarter 2 (Full School Day)

1/28: Spartans Got Talent, 7 p.m.,  Auditorium

1/29: Teacher Workday (Student Holiday)

1/30: Quarter 3 starts (Classes Resume)

 

WSHS Calendars/Bell Schedules

The Gradebook in SIS ParentVUE and StudentVUE will be closed for the end of the quarter from Tuesday, January 28, 4 p.m. to Tuesday, February 4, 6 a.m.

Learn how to activate your ParentVUE account to easily access grade reports and other helpful information about your child.

NEWS AND NOTES West Springfield Leadership Team Update

Last week, Principal Michael Mukai shared the news that he has been appointed as the new principal of Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, effective January 20, 2025. As we begin the process of selecting a new principal, the Region 4 Office is pleased to announce that Assistant Principal Betsy Fawsett will serve as Acting Principal, effective January 21, 2025.

 

Ms. Fawsett has been a part of the WSHS community for the past 18 years:

  • 2007-Taught Business and Information Technology 
  • 2010- Became Assistant Director of Student Activities
  • 2015- Became an Assistant Principal collaborating with the Math, Technology and Fine and Performing Arts, CTE, and Special Education Low Incidence program departments

Please join us in thanking Ms. Fawsett for stepping into the acting principal position during this time of transition. We look forward to working together to ensure the continued success of the West Springfield community.

SPARTAN STRONG

📱SR&R and Cell Phone Policy Survey Coming Soon

All FCPS families and middle and high school students will be receiving an email invitation on Tuesday, January 21, to participate in a survey about FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R), cell phone policy, and cell phone storage options. The survey will be available from January 21 to February 3. Please take a few moments to share your feedback and help FCPS make informed, inclusive decisions for all of our schools!

STUDENT SERVICES Academic Advising Timeline 2025-2026

Mark your calendars with the following dates to assist with choosing courses for next school year. ** Dates have been updated due to snow closures

  1. Academic Days of Emphasis | January 16-22, 2025 | Student in Grades 9, 10, and 11, will meet with their current teachers to discuss their feedback.
  2. Pre-Advising Learning Seminar | Pre-Advising Lesson shared with Grades 9, 10, and 11 during LS to go over Academic Advising Process. 
  3. Curriculum Fair | Opportunity for students to visit different classes and get information on specific classes in which they may be interested. 
  4. Academic Advising Rising Juniors | February 3-7, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  5. Academic Advising Rising Seniors | February 10-14, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  6. Academic Advising Rising Sophomores | February 17-24, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  7. Last Day to Make Class Schedule Requests for the 2025-2026 School Year | March 31, 2025
  8. **Future Spartan Orientation | April (TBD) |  Rising 9th graders will visit West Springfield HS 

Student Services Quick Links

College Bound?  Apply for the College Partnership Program

What is CPP? The mission of the College Partnership Program (CPP) is to close the opportunity gap by preparing students for college readiness and success. CPP’s goal is to ensure that students capable of completing a college preparatory path will: succeed in rigorous curriculum, actively participate in the school community, enroll in a four-year college or another post-secondary program, and become responsible participants and leaders of society.


Would you benefit from the following elements?

●Having a trusted adult at school to touch base with about academics and social-emotional wellbeing
●Organizing your time, materials, thoughts, and writing
●Getting and staying motivated to succeed in school
●Exploring colleges, careers, and a variety of pathways to postsecondary success


Do you fit into ONE or more of the following categories?


●First in your family to attend a four-year college in the U.S.
●Need financial support to attend college
●Current GPA of 2.5 or above
●Determined to go to college
●Willing to take some advanced courses and put in the necessary work
●Good attendance record


If you’ve answered “yes” to any of the above, then CPP might be for you! Talk to your school counselor, as CPP just may be a good fit for you. Additional information about CPP is on the FCPS website.

 

Application : Due February 28th

🎒Academic Advising is Here!

Please visit our Student Services Schoology Course to explore the diverse course offerings available at West Springfield High School.

Under the "Academic" folder on our main page, you can delve deeper into our class offerings and make informed decisions about your future course selections.

We will begin meeting with:

  • Rising Juniors: February 3-7
  • Rising Seniors: February 10-14
  • Rising Sophomores: February 17-24

Counselors are currently conducting academic advising sessions and will continue to do so through the end of January.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact your counselor directly.

ACADEMY OPEN HOUSES 2025

If you are interested in an Academy next year you will want to attend an Open House beginning in January.  More information can be found here.

Open Houses are a great opportunity to visit classroom and lab spaces, speak with instructors and Academy Counselors. For questions, contact Bonnie Wannett: [email protected]. 

 

Location Date Time      

 

Edison Academy 

 

February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

 

Fairfax Academy

 

February 4, 2025  6:30 to 8 p.m.      

 

Marshall Academy

 

January 30, 2025  4:30 to 6 p.m.

 

West Potomac Academy

 

February 20, 2025  6 to 8 p.m.

 

Fairfax County Firefighting Program

 

  February 19, 2025

 

INTERESTED? ACTION NEEDED:

**If you know which Academy you're interested in, please also complete this form.  The form is only available to students using their fcpsschools.net account.

SPARTAN SPOTLIGHT Former Spartan Honored by the White House

President Biden awarded nearly 400 scientists and engineers the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE), the highest honor bestowed by the U.S. government on outstanding scientists and engineers early in their careers.

Among those awarded is Spartan Class of 2006, Benjamin Trump, of the Department of Defense.

 

Learn more about the honor here

STUDENT CORNER Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) Opportunity

Free Online Leadership Program for 9-12 Graders Going to College through Edu-Futuro 

https://edu-futuro.org/youth-programs/

Additionally, writing and speech competition scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $500, allowing students to gain recognition for their efforts and further support their educational goals.

Program Starts Virtually, January 30th 6-8 p.m. 

Visit our site

🚗Learner's Permit Test at WSHS- 2nd Semester Dates!!

 

When: 3:10pm- specific dates below

Where: Room 2228

Cost: $25

2024-25 Dates: 2nd Semester shown below

  • February 6 and 27
  • March 20
  • April 3 and 24
  • May 22
  • June 5

 

Who can take the test: Students MUST be 15 years and 6 months old by the day of the test

  • This test is for Fairfax County Public School students ONLY (FCPS ID is required).
  •     If you have had 2 unsuccessful attempts at passing this test, then you are required to test at the DMV for your 3rd attempt.

 

Please read the instructions below carefully…

 

How to Register:

  1. Visit FCPS ACE and sign up for a specific date- fcps.edu
  2. Once registered on the FCPS ACE site, you must also register with the DMV. A link is provided during the ACE registration and in your confirmation email. Failure to register with the DMV will result in not being able to test since they issue the secure testing codes to FCPS proctors. 

 

The following are required to the take the test- bring them with you on your test day:

  • A picture ID to verify identity. If the student does not have a picture ID, take a picture, write the student's full legal name under the picture, and have a teacher sign to verify the student's identity.  You may also show your photo from SIS.
  • Earbuds/headphones to listen to directions and test audio (optional).

 

NEED TO PREPARE FOR THE LEARNERS PERMIT TEST? SIGN UP FOR ONE OF THE PREP COURSES!

These 90-minute classes are offered on Zoom and help to prepare students for the permit test. Sign up on aceclasses.fcps.edu. Dates for 1st Semester are 9/25, 10/21, 11/18, 12/4, 1/8.

 

Send any questions to Casey Grubbs ([email protected])

ACTIVITIES SPARTAN TALENT SHOW

Tuesday, Jan 28, 7 p.m. 

Auditorium

School Activities Calendar. Check it out. 

SPORTS  Spirit Wear and Tickets

If you don’t have Spartan spirit wear,  don’t worry -- the Booster Club will have plenty for sale!

The cost of all games is $5.00 for students and $7 for adults. 

To avoid long lines, we strongly encourage you to purchase a Season Pass, through our eTIX Site.  Or you can purchase individual game tickets here.

PLEASE VISIT our WEBSITE www.spartansports.net for more information and our game schedule.

Spartan Sports Calendar January 20-25 Stay in Touch with Spartan Sports! 

You can follow WSHS Spartan Sports on social media:

Website: www.spartansports.net

Instagram: @wshs_sports

Sign Up For the Sports and Activities News You Choose

ALL NIGHT GRAD PARTY 📅SAVE THE DATE: 2025 All Night Grad Party

 

The 2025 All Night Grad Party (ANGP) will be held on Monday June 9th at 11:00 pm through Tuesday June 10th at 5:00 am at The St. James Performance Club in Springfield, VA.

 

Details and ticket sales coming soon. 

🎓Graduation Yard Signs

Yard Signs are on sale again this year for the ANGP!

Order the signs directly through the Fast Signs website  

Signs can be personalized and all proceeds will benefit the ANGP for the Class of 2025!!

PTSA 🥪Fundraiser at McAlister's Deli

Dine at McAlister's and support the PTSA!  

Where: 8401B Old Keene Mill Rd 

When: Tuesday, January 21

Time: 2:00-8:00 p.m. 

Phone: 571-678-7490

Online: https://www.mcalistersdeli.com/

For online orders, use promo code CHARITEA

💻Practice SAT Opportunity

Saturday, Feb. 1, 9 a.m. (If you can’t make it on Feb. 1, e-mail us and we can try to work something out)

PTSA Member:$5 

Non-members: $20

Visit the PTSA store to sign up!

Just to be clear: you can join the PTSA first at the same site, and then sign up for the practice test at the lower price! Membership has its benefits!

This is a PTSA fundraiser: all funds go to the PTSA.

Questions? e-mail us at [email protected]

 

https://wshsptsa.net/  

FCPS NEWS IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

  • Gap Year Fair
  • Proposed Construction Projects
  • Virtual Community Boundary Review Meetings

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

Resources for New FCPS Families

Are you new to the area and need help understanding school registration or connecting with your local school? The following resources are available for all families:

  • Family liaisons work in the schools and community to help families get the information and assistance they need to support their children and to ensure their academic success. Family liaisons represent a variety of cultures, languages, and races.
  • Family information phone lines are available in nine languages to assist families. A school system employee will respond to your call in your preferred language within 24 hours, Monday through Friday.

Visit the FCPS Family Academy webpage to learn how FCPS works to support the continued success and well-being of each and every student. 

No-Cost Virtual Therapy for High School Students

Virtual therapy sessions are available to FCPS high school students at no cost to provide a safe space to address concerns such as:

  • Mood/behavior changes, motivation, grief/loss
  • Anxiety, worry, fears
  • Social skills, bullying, peer and family relationships
  • Academic stress

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

Visit the FCPS Teletherapy webpage for more information.

FCPS Quick Links WSHS Social Media Find WSHS Spartans on: Need Help? Contact our Family Liaison

If you have questions about navigating the school, learning about FCPS resources, or getting your student setup for success, our Family Liaison can help.  Email  or sign up for Talking Points.  Use code the code T6AXZW

6100 Rolling Road, Springfield, VA 22152 | Main Office: 703-913-3800
Attendance: 703-913-3838 or [email protected] | Web

WSHS Spartan Weekly News_ January 10, 2024

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UPCOMING EVENTS JANUARY

1/16: NEW DATE: Curriculum Night, Cafeteria, 6:30-8 p.m.

1/20: MLK Jr. Day/Inauguration Day (No School)

1/28: End of Quarter 2

1/29: Teacher Workday/Student Holiday

NEWS AND NOTES Principal Mike Mukai Accepts Principal Position at Alma Mater Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology

 

January 9, 2025

Dear Spartan Family,

As I reflect on the incredible journey we have shared over the past ten years at West Springfield High School, I am filled with immense gratitude and pride. Today, I am writing to share that I have accepted the principal position at my alma mater, Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, and will begin this new chapter later this month.

My time at West Springfield has been a cornerstone of my personal and professional growth. The dedication of our faculty, staff, and students has inspired me every day. Together, we have achieved remarkable milestones: navigating the challenges of a school renovation, persevering through the pandemic, and embodying the resilience and spirit of being Spartan Strong.

It has been my honor to witness extraordinary moments, from Virginia Music Educators Association and White House performances to Cappies-winning musicals and numerous Virginia High School League district, region, and state championships. Most significantly, I’ve cherished shaking hands with over 5,000 Spartan graduates as they crossed the stage at commencement, ready to embrace their futures.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege to watch our students grow into successful young adults and welcome back alumni who shared how their time at West Springfield High School prepared them for their accomplishments. My journey here—as a chemistry teacher, math teacher, wrestling coach, assistant director of student activities, assistant principal, and principal—has shaped me into the educator I am today. Each role has been a testament to the incredible community we have built together.

As I prepare to return to Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, I carry with me the lessons, memories, and relationships that have enriched my time at West Springfield. While I am excited to serve my alma mater, I will always cherish my time here and the indelible mark West Springfield High School has left on my heart.

I know that West Springfield High School will continue to transform lives and foster a legacy of excellence. Thank you for allowing me to be part of this extraordinary family.

 

Dream Big, Work Hard, Be Proud.

Spartan Strong,

Michael Mukai

STUDENT SERVICES Academic Advising Timeline 2025-2026

Mark your calendars with the following dates to assist with choosing courses for next school year. ** Dates have been updated due to snow closures

  1. **Curriculum Night  | January 16, 2025 | 6:30-8:00 pm in the Cafeteria for students and families
  2. Academic Days of Emphasis | January 16-22, 2025 | Student in Grades 9, 10, and 11, will meet with their current teachers to discuss their feedback.
  3. Pre-Advising Learning Seminar | Pre-Advising Lesson shared with Grades 9, 10, and 11 during LS to go over Academic Advising Process. 
  4. Curriculum Fair | Opportunity for students to visit different classes and get information on specific classes in which they may be interested. 
  5. Academic Advising Rising Juniors | February 3-7, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  6. Academic Advising Rising Seniors | February 10-14, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  7. Academic Advising Rising Sophomores | February 17-24, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  8. Last Day to Make Class Schedule Requests for the 2025-2026 School Year | March 31, 2025
  9. **Future Spartan Orientation | April (TBD) |  Rising 9th graders will visit West Springfield HS 
🎒Academic Advising is Here!

Please visit our Student Services Schoology Course to explore the diverse course offerings available at West Springfield High School.

Under the "Academic" folder on our main page, you can delve deeper into our class offerings and make informed decisions about your future course selections.

We will begin meeting with:

  • Rising Juniors: February 3-7
  • Rising Seniors: February 10-14
  • Rising Sophomores: February 17-24

Counselors are currently conducting academic advising sessions and will continue to do so through the end of January.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact your counselor directly.

ACADEMY OPEN HOUSES 2025

If you are interested in an Academy next year you will want to attend an Open House beginning in January.  More information can be found here.

Open Houses are a great opportunity to visit classroom and lab spaces, speak with instructors and Academy Counselors. For questions, contact Bonnie Wannett: [email protected]. 

 

Location Date Time

 

Chantilly Academy

 

January 14, 2025* (NEW DATE due to snow)  6 to 8 p.m.

 

Edison Academy 

 

February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

 

Fairfax Academy

 

February 4, 2025  6:30 to 8 p.m.

 

Falls Church Academy

 

January 13, 2025* (NEW DATE  due to snow)  6 to 9 p.m.

 

Marshall Academy

 

January 30, 2025  4:30 to 6 p.m.

 

West Potomac Academy

 

February 20, 2025  6 to 8 p.m.

 

Fairfax County Firefighting Program

 

  February 19, 2025

 

INTERESTED? ACTION NEEDED:

**If you know which Academy you interested in, please also complete this form.  The form is only available to students using their fcpsschools.net account.

SPARTAN SPOTLIGHT WSHS National Merit Commended Scholars

Six hundred ninety-three FCPS students have been named National Merit Commended Scholars by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC). This represents a 10% increase in Commended Scholars for FCPS compared to 2023. 

Julia Allendoerfer, Nicholas Barr, Kelly Benyo, Isaac Bond, Colin Burdett, Ava Chiu, Hyunji Cho, Maximilian Englert, Aaron Gorowitz, William Hoyle , Joshua Jung, Alexandra Morrison, Charlotte Oettinger, Alex Polen, Evan Residori, David Reynolds, Shriya Seshadri, Isaiah Sorial, Adam Turski, Derek Woodward

GO SPARTANS!

STUDENT CORNER

Visit our site

🚗Learner's Permit Test at WSHS- 2nd Semester Dates!!

When: 3:10pm- specific dates below

Where: Room 2228

Cost: $25

2024-25 Dates: 2nd Semester shown below

  • February 6 and 27
  • March 20
  • April 3 and 24
  • May 22
  • June 5

 

Who can take the test: Students MUST be 15 years and 6 months old by the day of the test

  • This test is for Fairfax County Public School students ONLY (FCPS ID is required).
  •     If you have had 2 unsuccessful attempts at passing this test, then you are required to test at the DMV for your 3rd attempt.

 

Please read the instructions below carefully…

 

How to Register:

  1. Visit FCPS ACE and sign up for a specific date- fcps.edu
  2. Once registered on the FCPS ACE site, you must also register with the DMV. A link is provided during the ACE registration and in your confirmation email. Failure to register with the DMV will result in not being able to test since they issue the secure testing codes to FCPS proctors. 

 

The following are required to the take the test- bring them with you on your test day:

  • A picture ID to verify identity. If the student does not have a picture ID, take a picture, write the student's full legal name under the picture, and have a teacher sign to verify the student's identity.  You may also show your photo from SIS.
  • Earbuds/headphones to listen to directions and test audio (optional).

 

NEED TO PREPARE FOR THE LEARNERS PERMIT TEST? SIGN UP FOR ONE OF THE PREP COURSES!

These 90-minute classes are offered on Zoom and help to prepare students for the permit test. Sign up on aceclasses.fcps.edu. Dates for 1st Semester are 9/25, 10/21, 11/18, 12/4, 1/8.

 

Send any questions to Casey Grubbs ([email protected])

ALL NIGHT GRAD PARTY 📅SAVE THE DATE: 2025 All Night Grad Party

 

The 2025 All Night Grad Party (ANGP) will be held on Monday June 9th at 11:00 pm through Tuesday June 10th at 5:00 am at The St. James Performance Club in Springfield, VA.

 

Details and ticket sales coming soon. 

🎓Graduation Yard Signs

Yard Signs are on sale again this year for the ANGP!

Order the signs directly through the Fast Signs website  

Signs can be personalized and all proceeds will benefit the ANGP for the Class of 2025!!

SPORTS  Spirit Wear and Tickets

If you don’t have Spartan spirit wear,  don’t worry -- the Booster Club will have plenty for sale!

The cost of all games is $5.00 for students and $7 for adults. 

To avoid long lines, we strongly encourage you to purchase a Season Pass, through our eTIX Site.  Or you can purchase individual game tickets here.

PLEASE VISIT our WEBSITE www.spartansports.net for more information and our game schedule.

Spartan Sports Calendar Week of Jan 13-18 Stay in Touch with Spartan Sports! 

You can follow WSHS Spartan Sports on social media:

Website: www.spartansports.net

Instagram: @wshs_sports

Sign Up For the Sports and Activities News You Choose

School Activities Calendar. Check it out. 

Congratulations to the 2024-2025 PTSA Reflections winners!! (see below)

Their entries were judged to be outstanding interpretations of this year’s theme:

Accepting Imperfection.

The top entry for each category in which we received submissions (Visual Arts and Literature) have been passed along to compete at the County level.

To see all of the submissions from our very talented WSHS students, please visit the WSHS PTSA's Reflections page at https://wshsptsa.net/programs/ptsa-reflections-program/   

 

A special thanks to Reflections Chair Tahnee Blauser for making this happen!

NEWS FOR THE COMMUNITY WSHS Dance Team Dance Camp and Basketball Performance

Learn a dance routine and perform with the West Springfield High School Dance Team at halftime at a WSHS Basketball Game!

Who: Girls and Boys Grades K-8

When: January 15, 5:30-8:00pm and January 16, 5:30-8:30 pm

Where: Cafeteria (Enter at Door 11)

Registration:https://www.wshssportscamps.com/, $95.50

Virtual Parent Cafe: Parenting in the Hispanic Culture

Fairfax County’s Department of Family Services will host its Building Stronger Families Virtual Parent Café next Tuesday, January 14th at 6:30 p.m. The topic this month is Parenting in the Hispanic Culture. The facilitators will lead an open discussion about the cross-cultural challenges many parents face when raising their children in a diverse environment. The discussion will explore the common issue of trying to instill respect for Hispanic culture and values while balancing conflicting cultural influences children encounter through media, peers, etc.

 

The Café will be held on Microsoft Teams. Here’s the link:

https://bit.ly/3BnJXrH Password: pd37sG7A

FCPS NEWS IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

  • Gradebook Available Until End of Quarter
  • Celebrating the Best of 2024 in FCPS
  • Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

Resources for New FCPS Families

Are you new to the area and need help understanding school registration or connecting with your local school? The following resources are available for all families:

  • Family liaisons work in the schools and community to help families get the information and assistance they need to support their children and to ensure their academic success. Family liaisons represent a variety of cultures, languages, and races.
  • Family information phone lines are available in nine languages to assist families. A school system employee will respond to your call in your preferred language within 24 hours, Monday through Friday.

Visit the FCPS Family Academy webpage to learn how FCPS works to support the continued success and well-being of each and every student. 

No-Cost Virtual Therapy for High School Students

Virtual therapy sessions are available to FCPS high school students at no cost to provide a safe space to address concerns such as:

  • Mood/behavior changes, motivation, grief/loss
  • Anxiety, worry, fears
  • Social skills, bullying, peer and family relationships
  • Academic stress

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

Visit the FCPS Teletherapy webpage for more information.

FCPS Quick Links WSHS Social Media Find WSHS Spartans on: Need Help? Contact our Family Liaison

If you have questions about navigating the school, learning about FCPS resources, or getting your student setup for success, our Family Liaison can help.  Email  or sign up for Talking Points.  Use code the code T6AXZW

6100 Rolling Road, Springfield, VA 22152 | Main Office: 703-913-3800
Attendance: 703-913-3838 or [email protected] | Web

Friday, January 10th, WSHS 2 hour delay bell schedule

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FCPS is on a 2 hour delay tomorrow, Friday, January 10, 2025

You can find all bell schedules on the WSHS Website: Bell Schedules

Tomorrow is an ORANGE DAY so the bell schedule is as follows:

 

6100 Rolling Road, Springfield, VA 22152 | Main Office: 703-913-3800
Attendance: 703-913-3838 or [email protected] | Web

WSHS Spartan Weekly News_ December 20, 2024

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UPCOMING EVENTS DECEMBER

12/23-1/3: Winter Break (No School)

  JANUARY

1/6: Classes resume

1/20: MLK Jr. Day (No School)

1/28: End of Quarter 2

1/29: Teacher Workday/Student Holiday

  ❄️Calendar Reminder: Winter Break

Winter break is Monday, December 23, 2025, through Friday, January 3, 2025. To help make sure you and your children have a restful break, we have asked that no homework be assigned during this time. Teachers may assign long-range assignments in the weeks before the break, allowing students to practice time management skills, but no assignments will be due immediately after the break.

Classes resume on Monday, January 6, 2025. We look forward to welcoming students back in the new year! 

See the complete school year calendar.

 

Happy Holidays!

Merry Christmas to those in our community who celebrate! Christmas is an annual holiday that commemorates the birth of Jesus of Nazareth, the person who stands at the heart of the Christian tradition. It is celebrated in many unique ways across the U.S. and the world, most commonly by the joyous giving of gifts

 

Happy Chanukah to all in our community who celebrate! Chanukah is an 8-day Festival of Lights, is a Jewish holiday commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple and the miracle of a small quantity of oil that lit the Temple’s menorah for 8 days. This year, Chanukah begins at sundown on Wednesday, December 25.

 

OFFICE HOURS The office will be closed 12/23-12/27/24 for holidays and cleaning. The office is open by appointment only 12/30/24-1/3/25.  STUDENT SERVICES 🎒Academic Advising is Here!

Please visit our Student Services Schoology Course to explore the diverse course offerings available at West Springfield High School.

Under the "Academic" folder on our main page, you can delve deeper into our class offerings and make informed decisions about your future course selections.

We will begin meeting with:

  • Rising Juniors: February 3-7
  • Rising Seniors: February 10-14
  • Rising Sophomores: February 17-24

Counselors are currently conducting academic advising sessions and will continue to do so through the end of January.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact your counselor directly.

ACADEMY OPEN HOUSES 2025

If you are interested in an Academy next year you will want to attend an Open House beginning in January.  More information can be found here.

Open Houses are a great opportunity to visit classroom and lab spaces, speak with instructors and Academy Counselors. For questions, contact Bonnie Wannett: [email protected]. 

 

Location Date Time

 

Chantilly Academy

 

January 8, 2025  6 to 8 p.m.

 

Edison Academy 

 

February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

 

Fairfax Academy

 

February 4, 2025  6:30 to 8 p.m.

 

Falls Church Academy

 

January 9, 2025  6 to 9 p.m.

 

Marshall Academy

 

January 30, 2025  4:30 to 6 p.m.

 

West Potomac Academy

 

February 20, 2025  6 to 8 p.m.

 

Fairfax County Firefighting Program

 

  February 19, 2025

 

INTERESTED? ACTION NEEDED:

**If you know which Academy you interested in, please also complete this form.  The form is only available to students using their fcpsschools.net account.

Academic Advising Timeline 2025-2026

Mark your calendars with the following dates to assist with choosing courses for next school year.

  1. Curriculum Night  | January 9, 2025 | 6:30-8:00 pm in the Cafeteria for students and families
  2. Future Spartan Orientation | January 13, 2025 |  Rising 9th graders will visit West Springfield HS 
  3. Academic Days of Emphasis | January 16-22, 2025 | Student in Grades 9, 10, and 11, will meet with their current teachers to discuss their feedback.
  4. Pre-Advising Learning Seminar | Pre-Advising Lesson shared with Grades 9, 10, and 11 during LS to go over Academic Advising Process. 
  5. Curriculum Fair | Opportunity for students to visit different classes and get information on specific classes in which they may be interested. 
  6. Academic Advising Rising Juniors | February 3-7, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  7. Academic Advising Rising Seniors | February 10-14, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  8. Academic Advising Rising Sophomores | February 17-24, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  9. Last Day to Make Class Schedule Requests for the 2025-2026 School Year | March 31, 2025
SPARTAN SPOTLIGHT 🏆Educate Fairfax Grant Awarded to Spartans

Congratulations WSHS Recycling and Original Creations for winning an  Educate Fairfax Grant!

The 2024 Educate Fairfax Grants will provide students with the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive both academically and personally. These grants celebrate the ingenuity and commitment of FCPS staff, recognizing their dedication to creating meaningful, equitable, and innovative learning experiences.

All funded projects align closely with the Educate Fairfax mission and the goals of the FCPS Strategic Plan 2023-30.

 

"The West Springfield High School Recycling Program and Original Creations were born from the need to help low incident students use their creativity to learn new job and life skills, and to create a more inclusive, eco-friendly community."

Visit their site here: WSHS Original Creations Site

Military Ambassador Club: Wreaths Across America

Members of the Military Ambassador Club (MAC) joined thousands of volunteers honoring veterans buried at Arlington National Cemetery for Wreath Across America.  

 

GO SPARTANS!

STUDENT CORNER

Visit our site

🚗Learner's Permit Test at WSHS- 2nd Semester Dates!!

When: 3:10pm- specific dates below

Where: Room 2228

Cost: $25

2024-25 Dates: 2nd Semester shown below

  • January 9
  • February 6 and 27
  • March 20
  • April 3 and 24
  • May 22
  • June 5

 

Who can take the test: Students MUST be 15 years and 6 months old by the day of the test

  • This test is for Fairfax County Public School students ONLY (FCPS ID is required).
  •     If you have had 2 unsuccessful attempts at passing this test, then you are required to test at the DMV for your 3rd attempt.

 

Please read the instructions below carefully…

 

How to Register:

  1. Visit FCPS ACE and sign up for a specific date- fcps.edu
  2. Once registered on the FCPS ACE site, you must also register with the DMV. A link is provided during the ACE registration and in your confirmation email. Failure to register with the DMV will result in not being able to test since they issue the secure testing codes to FCPS proctors. 

 

The following are required to the take the test- bring them with you on your test day:

  • A picture ID to verify identity. If the student does not have a picture ID, take a picture, write the student's full legal name under the picture, and have a teacher sign to verify the student's identity.  You may also show your photo from SIS.
  • Earbuds/headphones to listen to directions and test audio (optional).

 

NEED TO PREPARE FOR THE LEARNERS PERMIT TEST? SIGN UP FOR ONE OF THE PREP COURSES!

These 90-minute classes are offered on Zoom and help to prepare students for the permit test. Sign up on aceclasses.fcps.edu. Dates for 1st Semester are 9/25, 10/21, 11/18, 12/4, 1/8.

 

Send any questions to Casey Grubbs ([email protected])

ALL NIGHT GRAD PARTY 📅SAVE THE DATE: 2025 All Night Grad Party

 

The 2025 All Night Grad Party (ANGP) will be held on Monday June 9th at 11:00 pm through Tuesday June 10th at 5:00 am at The St. James Performance Club in Springfield, VA.

 

Details and ticket sales coming soon. 

🎓Graduation Yard Signs

Yard Signs are on sale again this year for the ANGP!

Order the signs directly through the Fast Signs website  

Signs can be personalized and all proceeds will benefit the ANGP for the Class of 2025!!

SPORTS  Spirit Wear and Tickets

If you don’t have Spartan spirit wear,  don’t worry -- the Booster Club will have plenty for sale!

The cost of all games is $5.00 for students and $7 for adults. 

To avoid long lines, we strongly encourage you to purchase a Season Pass, through our eTIX Site.  Or you can purchase individual game tickets here.

PLEASE VISIT our WEBSITE www.spartansports.net for more information and our game schedule.

Spartan Sports Calendar Week of Dec 23-Jan 4 Stay in Touch with Spartan Sports! 

You can follow WSHS Spartan Sports on social media:

Website: www.spartansports.net

Instagram: @wshs_sports

Sign Up For the Sports and Activities News You Choose

School Activities Calendar. Check it out. 

PTSA

WSHS PTSA Reflections Contest Winner Submissions: Karina Lugo for Visual Arts and Annika Gross for Literature

Congratulations to the 2024-2025 PTSA Reflections winners!! (see below)

Their entries were judged to be outstanding interpretations of this year’s theme:

Accepting Imperfection.

The top entry for each category in which we received submissions (Visual Arts and Literature) have been passed along to compete at the County level.

To see all of the submissions from our very talented WSHS students, please visit the WSHS PTSA's Reflections page at https://wshsptsa.net/programs/ptsa-reflections-program/   

 

A special thanks to Reflections Chair Tahnee Blauser for making this happen!

FAMILY RESOURCE CENTER (FRC) ❤️‍🩹Youth Mental Health First Aid (In-person course)

December 20, 2024, 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. - Youth Mental Health First Aid (in-person course) 

Sign up for the FRC newsletter or visit their webinar webpage. 

 

💻January Webinars at the Family Resource Center  Sibshops January 11, 2025 9 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

For children grades 2-6 enrolled in Fairfax County Public Schools.  An opportunity to meet other siblings in a relaxed, virtual setting.  Celebrate the many contributions made by brothers and sisters of children with special needs.  Share sibling experiences, while receiving peer support.  Enjoy games and have fun!

January 11, 2025   9-12:00 p.m.

Register Here

 

FCPS Math Week January 13-17, 2025

Participate in a full week of family time with stories, games, and math activities in English and Spanish for families with students in K-6.

January 13-17, 2025

mindresearch.org/fcps-math-week

 

FCPS Family Resource Center Web | Email: [email protected] | Phone: 703-204-3941

FCPS NEWS IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

  • Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration
  • Be Among the First to Hear About Closings/Delays
  • Fall 2024 Sports Champions

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today. 

 

Resources for New FCPS Families

Are you new to the area and need help understanding school registration or connecting with your local school? The following resources are available for all families:

  • Family liaisons work in the schools and community to help families get the information and assistance they need to support their children and to ensure their academic success. Family liaisons represent a variety of cultures, languages, and races.
  • Family information phone lines are available in nine languages to assist families. A school system employee will respond to your call in your preferred language within 24 hours, Monday through Friday.

Visit the FCPS Family Academy webpage to learn how FCPS works to support the continued success and well-being of each and every student. 

Get to Know FCPS: Family Orientation

This interactive orientation provides information about the school system, the links between family engagement and student achievement, school staff you should get to know, and programs and technology considerations for families. The orientation also includes a discussion that is helpful for families who are new to the United States.

Sessions in English are held online on:

  • Thursday, December 19, at 6 p.m. 

Register in advance. Visit the Family Academy catalog page to see the dates this orientation will be offered in Arabic, Korean, and Spanish.

No-Cost Virtual Therapy for High School Students

Virtual therapy sessions are available to FCPS high school students at no cost to provide a safe space to address concerns such as:

  • Mood/behavior changes, motivation, grief/loss
  • Anxiety, worry, fears
  • Social skills, bullying, peer and family relationships
  • Academic stress

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

Visit the FCPS Teletherapy webpage for more information.

FCPS Quick Links WSHS Social Media Find WSHS Spartans on: Need Help? Contact our Family Liaison

If you have questions about navigating the school, learning about FCPS resources, or getting your student setup for success, our Family Liaison can help.  Email  or sign up for Talking Points.  Use code the code T6AXZW

6100 Rolling Road, Springfield, VA 22152 | Main Office: 703-913-3800
Attendance: 703-913-3838 or [email protected] | Web

WSHS Spartan Weekly News_ December 13, 2024

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

UPCOMING EVENTS DECEMBER

12/16-12/20 SGA Winter Spirit Week (See Below)

12/17: WSHS Immunization Clinic, Collaboration 1 (by appointment)

12/23-1/3: Winter Break (No School)

  JANUARY

1/6: Classes resume

❄️Calendar Reminder: Winter Break

Winter break is Monday, December 23, 2025, through Friday, January 3, 2025. To help make sure you and your children have a restful break, we have asked that no homework be assigned during this time. Teachers may assign long-range assignments in the weeks before the break, allowing students to practice time management skills, but no assignments will be due immediately after the break.

Classes resume on Monday, January 6, 2025. We look forward to welcoming students back in the new year! 

See the complete school year calendar.

 

OFFICE HOURS The office will be closed 12/23-12/27/24 for holidays and cleaning. The office is open by appointment only 12/30/24-1/3/25.  NEWS AND NOTES ⛄SGA Winter Spirit Week 2024

Mon, 12/16: Jolly Jammies Day!  Wear your comfiest pajamas! 🛏️

Tue, 12/17: Timber Tuesday!  Dress up in a flannel! 🌲

Wed, 12/18: Walking in a TWINter Wonderland!  Twin Day!  Pick a friend and match! 👯

Thu, 12/19: Toasty Toes Thursday!  Wear fuzzy socks and winter gear! 🧦

Fri, 12/20:   Festive Friday!  Wear your best holiday sweater!  🥳👕

STUDENT SERVICES 🎒Academic Advising is Here!

Please visit our Student Services Schoology Course to explore the diverse course offerings available at West Springfield High School.

Under the "Academic" folder on our main page, you can delve deeper into our class offerings and make informed decisions about your future course selections.

We will begin meeting with:

  • Rising Juniors: February 3-7
  • Rising Seniors: February 10-14
  • Rising Sophomores: February 17-24

Counselors are currently conducting academic advising sessions and will continue to do so through the end of January.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact your counselor directly.

ACADEMY OPEN HOUSES 2025

If you are interested in an Academy next year you will want to attend an Open House beginning in January.  More information can be found here.

Open Houses are a great opportunity to visit classroom and lab spaces, speak with instructors and Academy Counselors. For questions, contact Bonnie Wannett: [email protected]. 

 

Location Date Time

 

Chantilly Academy

 

January 8, 2025  6 to 8 p.m.

 

Edison Academy 

 

February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

 

Fairfax Academy

 

February 4, 2025  6:30 to 8 p.m.

 

Falls Church Academy

 

January 9, 2025  6 to 9 p.m.

 

Marshall Academy

 

January 30, 2025  4:30 to 6 p.m.

 

West Potomac Academy

 

February 20, 2025  6 to 8 p.m.

 

Fairfax County Firefighting Program

 

  February 19, 2025

 

INTERESTED? ACTION NEEDED:

**If you know which Academy you interested in, please also complete this form.  The form is only available to students using their fcpsschools.net account.

Academic Advising Timeline 2025-2026

Mark your calendars with the following dates to assist with choosing courses for next school year.

  1. Curriculum Night  | January 9, 2025 | 6:30-8:00 pm in the Cafeteria for students and families
  2. Future Spartan Orientation | January 13, 2025 |  Rising 9th graders will visit West Springfield HS 
  3. Academic Days of Emphasis | January 16-22, 2025 | Student in Grades 9, 10, and 11, will meet with their current teachers to discuss their feedback.
  4. Pre-Advising Learning Seminar | Pre-Advising Lesson shared with Grades 9, 10, and 11 during LS to go over Academic Advising Process. 
  5. Curriculum Fair | Opportunity for students to visit different classes and get information on specific classes in which they may be interested. 
  6. Academic Advising Rising Juniors | February 3-7, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  7. Academic Advising Rising Seniors | February 10-14, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  8. Academic Advising Rising Sophomores | February 17-24, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  9. Last Day to Make Class Schedule Requests for the 2025-2026 School Year | March 31, 2025
STUDENT CORNER WSHS Low Incidence Small Business

Students in our CAT B program will be selling custom crayon names this year! These make great stocking stuffers and add a great personal touch to your holiday presents. We appreciate any support! We will be selling these all year. If you want it by Winter Break, place the order by 12/13/24.

 https://sites.google.com/view/wshsoriginalcreations/home

🚗Learner's Permit Test at WSHS

When: 3:10pm- specific dates below

Where: Room 2228

Cost: $25

2024-25 Dates: 1st Semester shown below

  • January 9

 

Who can take the test: Students MUST be 15 years and 6 months old by the day of the test

  • This test is for Fairfax County Public School students ONLY (FCPS ID is required).
  •     If you have had 2 unsuccessful attempts at passing this test, then you are required to test at the DMV for your 3rd attempt.

 

Please read the instructions below carefully…

 

How to Register:

  1. Visit FCPS ACE and sign up for a specific date- fcps.edu
  2. Once registered on the FCPS ACE site, you must also register with the DMV. A link is provided during the ACE registration and in your confirmation email. Failure to register with the DMV will result in not being able to test since they issue the secure testing codes to FCPS proctors. 

 

The following are required to the take the test- bring them with you on your test day:

  • A picture ID to verify identity. If the student does not have a picture ID, take a picture, write the student's full legal name under the picture, and have a teacher sign to verify the student's identity.  You may also show your photo from SIS.
  • Earbuds/headphones to listen to directions and test audio (optional).

 

NEED TO PREPARE FOR THE LEARNERS PERMIT TEST? SIGN UP FOR ONE OF THE PREP COURSES!

These 90-minute classes are offered on Zoom and help to prepare students for the permit test. Sign up on aceclasses.fcps.edu. Dates for 1st Semester are 9/25, 10/21, 11/18, 12/4, 1/8.

 

Send any questions to Casey Grubbs ([email protected])

ALL NIGHT GRAD PARTY 📅SAVE THE DATE: 2025 All Night Grad Party

 

The 2025 All Night Grad Party (ANGP) will be held on Monday June 9th at 11:00 pm through Tuesday June 10th at 5:00 am at The St. James Performance Club in Springfield, VA.

 

Details and ticket sales coming soon. 

🎓Graduation Yard Signs

Yard Signs are on sale again this year for the ANGP!

Order the signs directly through the Fast Signs website  

Signs can be personalized and all proceeds will benefit the ANGP for the Class of 2025!!

PERFORMING ARTS 🎻Winter Orchestra Concert

Tuesday, December 17th, 2024

7 p.m. WSHS Auditorium

SPORTS  Spirit Wear and Tickets

If you don’t have Spartan spirit wear,  don’t worry -- the Booster Club will have plenty for sale!

The cost of all games is $5.00 for students and $7 for adults. 

To avoid long lines, we strongly encourage you to purchase a Season Pass, through our eTIX Site.  Or you can purchase individual game tickets here.

PLEASE VISIT our WEBSITE www.spartansports.net for more information and our game schedule.

Spartan Sports Calendar Week of December 16-21 Stay in Touch with Spartan Sports! 

You can follow WSHS Spartan Sports on social media:

Website: www.spartansports.net

Instagram: @wshs_sports

Sign Up For the Sports and Activities News You Choose

School Activities Calendar. Check it out. 

FAMILY RESOURCE CENTER (FRC) These are two opportunities through the Family Resource Center (FRC).   

 

👩🏽‍💻Protecting Kids Against Digital Exploitation: Keeping Kids Safe Online Webinar

This webinar will be presented jointly between Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County Police Department, the Department of Justice, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children on December 13th from 10 to 11:30 a.m.  Flyers available are available in English, Spanish, Korean, Vietnamese, Urdu, Chinese, and Arabic. Interpretation will be available. Families can register here: https://bit.ly/3YvMhFA.

** If you register, you will receive the recording even if you can't attend live**

 

❤️‍🩹Youth Mental Health First Aid (In-person course)

December 20, 2024, 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. - Youth Mental Health First Aid (in-person course) 

 

Sign up for the FRC newsletter or visit their webinar webpage. 

FCPS NEWS IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

  • Course Selection for Middle and High School Students
  • Join Our Teacher Team!
  • Comprehensive Boundary Review Updates

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.  

Resources for New FCPS Families

Are you new to the area and need help understanding school registration or connecting with your local school? The following resources are available for all families:

  • Family liaisons work in the schools and community to help families get the information and assistance they need to support their children and to ensure their academic success. Family liaisons represent a variety of cultures, languages, and races.
  • Family information phone lines are available in nine languages to assist families. A school system employee will respond to your call in your preferred language within 24 hours, Monday through Friday.

Visit the FCPS Family Academy webpage to learn how FCPS works to support the continued success and well-being of each and every student. 

Get to Know FCPS: Family Orientation

This interactive orientation provides information about the school system, the links between family engagement and student achievement, school staff you should get to know, and programs and technology considerations for families. The orientation also includes a discussion that is helpful for families who are new to the United States.

Sessions in English are held online on:

  • Thursday, December 19, at 6 p.m. 

Register in advance. Visit the Family Academy catalog page to see the dates this orientation will be offered in Arabic, Korean, and Spanish.

No-Cost Virtual Therapy for High School Students

Virtual therapy sessions are available to FCPS high school students at no cost to provide a safe space to address concerns such as:

  • Mood/behavior changes, motivation, grief/loss
  • Anxiety, worry, fears
  • Social skills, bullying, peer and family relationships
  • Academic stress

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

Visit the FCPS Teletherapy webpage for more information.

FCPS Quick Links WSHS Social Media Find WSHS Spartans on: Need Help? Contact our Family Liaison

If you have questions about navigating the school, learning about FCPS resources, or getting your student setup for success, our Family Liaison can help.  Email  or sign up for Talking Points.  Use code the code T6AXZW

6100 Rolling Road, Springfield, VA 22152 | Main Office: 703-913-3800
Attendance: 703-913-3838 or [email protected] | Web

Last Chance: Immunization Clinic Sign-up /Corrected Links

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💉LAST CHANCE: Immunization Clinic at WSHS **Correction: New Links**

 

In collaboration with Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD), FCPS will host school site immunization clinics. These clinic events will be hosted during the school day.

Three adolescent vaccines will be available: Tdap, Meningococcal, and HPV. Students may only participate in the clinic at the school site where they are enrolled.  

 

West Springfield High School's Clinic is on December 17th

Parental/Guardian consent is required for your student to receive immunizations. Please submit the signed Adolescent Vaccine Clinic Consent Form to the school’s front office by COB, December 10th.

English

Spanish

Vietnamese

Arabic

Urdu

Farsi

Chinese

Korean

 

 

Additional immunization information and resources are available below:

 

6100 Rolling Road, Springfield, VA 22152 | Main Office: 703-913-3800
Attendance: 703-913-3838 or [email protected] | Web

WSHS Spartan Weekly News_ December 6, 2024

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

UPCOMING EVENTS DECEMBER

12/17: WSHS Immunization Clinic (During school hours, parent consent needed)

12/23-1/3: Winter Break (No School)

  JANUARY

1/6: Classes resume

❄️Calendar Reminder: Winter Break

Winter break is Monday, December 23, 2025, through Friday, January 3, 2025. To help make sure you and your children have a restful break, we have asked that no homework be assigned during this time. Teachers may assign long-range assignments in the weeks before the break, allowing students to practice time management skills, but no assignments will be due immediately after the break.

Classes resume on Monday, January 6, 2025. We look forward to welcoming students back in the new year! 

See the complete school year calendar.

NEWS AND NOTES 💉LAST CHANCE: Immunization Clinic at WSHS

In collaboration with Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD), FCPS will host school site immunization clinics. These clinic events will be hosted during the school day.

Three adolescent vaccines will be available: Tdap, Meningococcal, and HPV. Students may only participate in the clinic at the school site where they are enrolled.  

 

West Springfield High School's Clinic is on December 17th

Parental/Guardian consent is required for your student to receive immunizations. Please submit the signed  Adolescent Vaccine Clinic Consent Form to the school’s front office by December 10th.

 

Additional immunization information and resources are available below:

 

STUDENT SERVICES Academic Advising Timeline 2025-2026

Mark your calendars with the following dates to assist with choosing courses for next school year.

  1. Curriculum Night  | January 9, 2025 | 6:30-8:00 pm in the Cafeteria for students and families
  2. Future Spartan Orientation | January 13, 2025 |  Rising 9th graders will visit West Springfield HS 
  3. Academic Days of Emphasis | January 16-22, 2025 | Student in Grades 9, 10, and 11, will meet with their current teachers to discuss their feedback.
  4. Pre-Advising Learning Seminar | Pre-Advising Lesson shared with Grades 9, 10, and 11 during LS to go over Academic Advising Process. 
  5. Curriculum Fair | Opportunity for students to visit different classes and get information on specific classes in which they may be interested. 
  6. Academic Advising Rising Juniors | February 3-7, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  7. Academic Advising Rising Seniors | February 10-14, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  8. Academic Advising Rising Sophomores | February 17-24, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  9. Last Day to Make Class Schedule Requests for the 2025-2026 School Year | March 31, 2025
🔦SPARTAN SPOTLIGHT 🎵Virginia Music Educators Association (VMEA) Conference

West Springfield Wind Symphony is one of only seven bands to perform at the Virginia Music Educators Association (VMEA) Conference, which will be held November 21-23 in Norfolk. 

Senior Ruby Carlon will represent West Springfield at the VMEA Senior Honors Choir on Saturday, November 23 at 1 p.m. in Norfolk.  She is one of thirty-three students chosen.

Performance groups and students throughout Virginia went through a rigorous audition process to compete for spots at the conference.

GO SPARTANS!

👏🏽Outstanding Employee Awards

Thank you all for nominating and supporting the staff at West Springfield High School.  We received numerous nominations for the Outstanding Personal Awards and it was a difficult choice to select among those worthy people.  Here is a list of West Springfield’s nominations who will be competing to represent our school pyramid for the district awards.

 

Outstanding Teacher – Ester Shin

Outstanding School based Leader – John Basta

Outstanding Professional Employee – Jeff Toomer

Outstanding Operational Employee – Jessica King

STUDENT CORNER WSHS Low Incidence Small Business

Students in our CAT B program will be selling custom crayon names this year! These make great stocking stuffers and add a great personal touch to your holiday presents. We appreciate any support! We will be selling these all year. If you want it by Winter Break, place the order by 12/13/24.

 https://sites.google.com/view/wshsoriginalcreations/home

🚗Learner's Permit Test at WSHS

When: 3:10pm- specific dates below

Where: Room 2228

Cost: $25

2024-25 Dates: 1st Semester shown below

  • January 9

 

Who can take the test: Students MUST be 15 years and 6 months old by the day of the test

  • This test is for Fairfax County Public School students ONLY (FCPS ID is required).
  •     If you have had 2 unsuccessful attempts at passing this test, then you are required to test at the DMV for your 3rd attempt.

 

Please read the instructions below carefully…

 

How to Register:

  1. Visit FCPS ACE and sign up for a specific date- fcps.edu
  2. Once registered on the FCPS ACE site, you must also register with the DMV. A link is provided during the ACE registration and in your confirmation email. Failure to register with the DMV will result in not being able to test since they issue the secure testing codes to FCPS proctors. 

 

The following are required to the take the test- bring them with you on your test day:

  • A picture ID to verify identity. If the student does not have a picture ID, take a picture, write the student's full legal name under the picture, and have a teacher sign to verify the student's identity.  You may also show your photo from SIS.
  • Earbuds/headphones to listen to directions and test audio (optional).

 

NEED TO PREPARE FOR THE LEARNERS PERMIT TEST? SIGN UP FOR ONE OF THE PREP COURSES!

These 90-minute classes are offered on Zoom and help to prepare students for the permit test. Sign up on aceclasses.fcps.edu. Dates for 1st Semester are 9/25, 10/21, 11/18, 12/4, 1/8.

 

Send any questions to Casey Grubbs ([email protected])

ALL NIGHT GRAD PARTY 🎓Graduation Yard Signs

Yard Signs are on sale again this year for the ANGP!

Order the signs directly through the Fast Signs website  

Signs can be personalized and all proceeds will benefit the ANGP for the Class of 2025!!

PERFORMING ARTS 🎻Winter Orchestra Concert

Tuesday, December 17th, 2024

7 p.m. WSHS Auditorium

SPORTS  Spirit Wear and Tickets

If you don’t have Spartan spirit wear,  don’t worry -- the Booster Club will have plenty for sale!

The cost of all games is $5.00 for students and $7 for adults. 

To avoid long lines, we strongly encourage you to purchase a Season Pass, through our eTIX Site.  Or you can purchase individual game tickets here.

PLEASE VISIT our WEBSITE www.spartansports.net for more information and our game schedule.

Spartan Sports Calendar Week of December 9-14 Stay in Touch with Spartan Sports! 

You can follow WSHS Spartan Sports on social media:

Website: www.spartansports.net

Instagram: @wshs_sports

Sign Up For the Sports and Activities News You Choose

School Activities Calendar. Check it out. 

NEWS FOR THE COMMUNITY ECHO DONATIONS

ECHO (Eccumenical Community Helping Others) collects new toys for children aged 0 to 15 and displays them in a cheerfully decorated, store-like setting.  ECHO clients who participate in this program come in by appointment to choose appropriate gifts for their children from our “store.”   

Donors can help with this happy program by donating new childrens’ toys  (not gift-wrapped, please) no later than FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6th.  Donations can be delivered to our donation door (door #6)  weekdays between 9:30 am and 12:30 pm, or Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings between 7:00 pm and 9:00 pm.   

Donors can also choose gifts from our Amazon wish list at www.echo-inc.org/wishlist-on-amazon which will be delivered to an ECHO representative. 

💵 Federal Student Aid Webinar Series

Attend the December 2024 Federal Student Aid Webinar Series on Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2024, as they host a free one-day virtual event! This live webinar series will guide caregivers through submitting the 2025–26 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form and is tailored for both independent and dependent students. REGISTER HERE

 

This event is for students, parents, and college/career professionals, and will feature the following:

 

• A live demonstration of the 2025–26 FAFSA form

• An overview of the financial aid process, available federal student aid programs, and funding sources

• Key facts and common myths about financial aid

• A guide on creating and accessing your StudentAid.gov account

• A demonstration on where to find certain information on StudentAid.gov

FCPS NEWS Family and School Partnerships is very excited to offer our Parent Project workshop for Arabic Speaking families!
  • This division-wide class will be conducted virtually, and registration is now open.
  • Parent Project is a 10-week course designed to empower families and transform teens
  • Families will gain tools to learn (1) how to build a positive relationship with their child, (2) ways to prevent or intervene in alcohol and drug use, disruptive behavior at home and gang affiliation, and (3) ways to explore concrete solutions for active supervision. Classes are FREE, and they meet once a week for 2 hours each class. 
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

  • 2025-26 FAFSA Help
  • Webinar on Overcoming School Resistance
  • Winter Programs and Activities

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.  

Resources for New FCPS Families

Are you new to the area and need help understanding school registration or connecting with your local school? The following resources are available for all families:

  • Family liaisons work in the schools and community to help families get the information and assistance they need to support their children and to ensure their academic success. Family liaisons represent a variety of cultures, languages, and races.
  • Family information phone lines are available in nine languages to assist families. A school system employee will respond to your call in your preferred language within 24 hours, Monday through Friday.

Visit the FCPS Family Academy webpage to learn how FCPS works to support the continued success and well-being of each and every student. 

Get to Know FCPS: Family Orientation

This interactive orientation provides information about the school system, the links between family engagement and student achievement, school staff you should get to know, and programs and technology considerations for families. The orientation also includes a discussion that is helpful for families who are new to the United States.

Sessions in English are held online on:

  • Tuesday, December 10, at 6 p.m.
  • Thursday, December 19, at 6 p.m. 

Register in advance. Visit the Family Academy catalog page to see the dates this orientation will be offered in Arabic, Korean, and Spanish.

No-Cost Virtual Therapy for High School Students

Virtual therapy sessions are available to FCPS high school students at no cost to provide a safe space to address concerns such as:

  • Mood/behavior changes, motivation, grief/loss
  • Anxiety, worry, fears
  • Social skills, bullying, peer and family relationships
  • Academic stress

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

Visit the FCPS Teletherapy webpage for more information.

FCPS Quick Links WSHS Social Media Find WSHS Spartans on: Need Help? Contact our Family Liaison

If you have questions about navigating the school, learning about FCPS resources, or getting your student setup for success, our Family Liaison can help.  Email  or sign up for Talking Points.  Use code the code T6AXZW

6100 Rolling Road, Springfield, VA 22152 | Main Office: 703-913-3800
Attendance: 703-913-3838 or [email protected] | Web

WSHS Spartan Weekly News_ November 26, 2024

GovDelivery3 months ago

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

UPCOMING EVENTS NOVEMBER 

11/27-11/29: Thanksgiving Break (No School)

 

DECEMBER

12/17: WSHS Immunization Clinic (During school hours, parent consent needed)

12/23-1/3: Winter Break (No School)

🗓️ Calendar Reminder: Thanksgiving  

Schools and offices will be closed Wednesday, November 27, through Friday, November 29. Classes will resume on Monday, December 2. See the complete school year calendar.

Note: FCPS This Week will not be distributed on Wednesday, November 27, due to the Thanksgiving holiday. 

❄️Prepare for Winter Weather

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

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

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

NEWS AND NOTES 💉Immunization Clinic at WSHS

In collaboration with Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD), FCPS will host school site immunization clinics. These clinic events will be hosted during the school day.

Three adolescent vaccines will be available: Tdap, Meningococcal, and HPV. Students may only participate in the clinic at the school site where they are enrolled.  

Parental/Guardian consent is required for your student to receive immunizations. Please submit the signed  Adolescent Vaccine Clinic Consent Form to the school’s front office by December 10th.

 

West Springfield High School's Clinic is on December 17th

 

Additional immunization information and resources are available below:

 

TECHNOLOGY 💻Technology Reminders

As we continue on in the school year, please remind your students to take good care of their school issued laptops. We have noticed an increase in broken screens, and we believe that many of these incidents could be prevented with a little extra care. Here are a few tips that you can share with your students:

  • Carry laptops with two hands by the base rather than by the screen.
  • Avoid placing heavy objects on top of the laptop, overfilling backpacks with bulky items, or dropping backpacks with laptops inside.
  • Be careful when closing the laptop, closing pens or other objects inside the clamshell can crack the screen.
  • Avoid eating or drinking near the laptop. Keep water bottles away from laptops when stored in a backpack.
  • Keep the laptop away from pets and small children.

By following these simple tips, students can safeguard their laptops and reduce the likelihood of damage. Thank you!

STUDENT SERVICES Academic Advising Timeline 2025-2026

Mark your calendars with the following dates to assist with choosing courses for next school year.

  1. Curriculum Night  | January 9, 2025 | 6:30-8:00 pm in the Cafeteria for students and families
  2. Future Spartan Orientation | January 13, 2025 |  Rising 9th graders will visit West Springfield HS 
  3. Academic Days of Emphasis | January 16-22, 2025 | Student in Grades 9, 10, and 11, will meet with their current teachers to discuss their feedback.
  4. Pre-Advising Learning Seminar | Pre-Advising Lesson shared with Grades 9, 10, and 11 during LS to go over Academic Advising Process. 
  5. Curriculum Fair | Opportunity for students to visit different classes and get information on specific classes in which they may be interested. 
  6. Academic Advising Rising Juniors | February 3-7, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  7. Academic Advising Rising Seniors | February 10-14, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  8. Academic Advising Rising Sophomores | February 17-24, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  9. Last Day to Make Class Schedule Requests for the 2025-2026 School Year | March 31, 2025
🔦SPARTAN SPOTLIGHT SGA Students show their THANKS for STAFF! STUDENT CORNER Support Group: Adjusting to Divorce or Parental Separation

Join our Military Family and Life Counselor, Ms. Burnside and fellow students of divorced or separated parents support group.  

 

When: December 4,6,18, and 20 during LS 4

Where: Main office, Room 1006

Special instructions: Fill out the consent form and return to Ms. Burnside in Room 1006 prior to the meeting using the QR code or ask the office or family liaison for a copy.

Space is limited!

WSHS Low Incidence Small Business

DID YOU KNOW… Our special education students in the Low Incidence program started a small business?! We make Crayon Letters, Lanyards, Wooden Signs and Cups!

Original Creations is a small business that offers meaningful work experiences to students with intellectual and developmental disabilities at West Springfield High School. It provides opportunities for them to develop a wide range of functional skills that are essential for independence. It celebrates their willingness to learn, as well as the hard work and love they put into each product.

 Check it out and share with family/friends! https://sites.google.com/view/wshsoriginalcreations/home

🚗Learner's Permit Test at WSHS

When: 3:10pm- specific dates below

Where: Room 2228

Cost: $25

2024-25 Dates: 1st Semester shown below

  • December 5
  • January 9

 

Who can take the test: Students MUST be 15 years and 6 months old by the day of the test

  • This test is for Fairfax County Public School students ONLY (FCPS ID is required).
  •     If you have had 2 unsuccessful attempts at passing this test, then you are required to test at the DMV for your 3rd attempt.

 

Please read the instructions below carefully…

 

How to Register:

  1. Visit FCPS ACE and sign up for a specific date- fcps.edu
  2. Once registered on the FCPS ACE site, you must also register with the DMV. A link is provided during the ACE registration and in your confirmation email. Failure to register with the DMV will result in not being able to test since they issue the secure testing codes to FCPS proctors. 

 

The following are required to the take the test- bring them with you on your test day:

  • A picture ID to verify identity. If the student does not have a picture ID, take a picture, write the student's full legal name under the picture, and have a teacher sign to verify the student's identity.  You may also show your photo from SIS.
  • Earbuds/headphones to listen to directions and test audio (optional).

 

NEED TO PREPARE FOR THE LEARNERS PERMIT TEST? SIGN UP FOR ONE OF THE PREP COURSES!

These 90-minute classes are offered on Zoom and help to prepare students for the permit test. Sign up on aceclasses.fcps.edu. Dates for 1st Semester are 9/25, 10/21, 11/18, 12/4, 1/8.

 

Send any questions to Casey Grubbs ([email protected])

ALL NIGHT GRAD PARTY 🎓Graduation Yard Signs

Yard Signs are on sale again this year for the ANGP!

Order the signs directly through the Fast Signs website  

Signs can be personalized and all proceeds will benefit the ANGP for the Class of 2025!!

SPORTS  Dynamite Sports: Guiding the College-Bound Athlete Seminar

Attention parents and athletes!

In an effort to educate parents and athletes about NCAA Eligibility, Athletic scholarships and the college recruiting process, Dynamite Sports will conduct a one-hour seminar entitled “Guiding the College-Bound Athlete” on Thursday Dec 5 at 7:30 p.m. at Robinson in Recital Hall.

This seminar will help you to become more knowledgeable and REALISTIC about athletic scholarships and the recruiting process. 

 

This seminar will teach you how to:

  • Setup COLLEGE Visits
  • Receive a SCHOLARSHIP or GRANT
  • Get NOTICED & RECRUITED
  • Ensure NCAA Freshman Eligibility
  • Create a “RECRUITING BLUEPRINT”
  • Communicate with COLLEGE COACHES
  • Why they should start as early as 7th grade

 

Attendees will receive a SAT/ACT Prep program valued at $350!

*Limit 1 per family / Tech Support not included*

Spirit Wear and Tickets

If you don’t have Spartan spirit wear,  don’t worry -- the Booster Club will have plenty for sale!

The cost of all games is $5.00 for students and $7 for adults. 

To avoid long lines, we strongly encourage you to purchase a Season Pass, through our eTIX Site.  Or you can purchase individual game tickets here.

PLEASE VISIT our WEBSITE www.spartansports.net for more information and our game schedule.

Spartan Sports Calendar Week of December 2-7 Stay in Touch with Spartan Sports! 

You can follow WSHS Spartan Sports on social media:

Website: www.spartansports.net

Instagram: @wshs_sports

Sign Up For the Sports and Activities News You Choose

School Activities Calendar. Check it out. 

NEWS FOR THE COMMUNITY 🕺🏽West Springfield Dance Camp 

West Springfield Dance Camp 12/11/24 and 12/13/24 Basketball Performance

Who: Girls and Boys Grades K-8

Location: WSHS Dance Studio (Enter at Door 10)

Halftime Performance: 12/13 7:30 pm

Registration: $95.50

Registration form: https://www.wshssportscamps.com/

Emotional Support Line – GMU Center for Community Mental Health

Families can access free, anonymous and confidential support from the comfort of your home. Trained providers are available 7 days/week to offer help, teach evidence-based skills and to listen. Low-cost therapy sessions are also available upon request.

  • The ARC Center of Fairfax has a Spanish Outreach Fellow, Majorie Flores, who is dedicated to helping students and families who speak Spanish in navigating the disability world. She can:
    • Give free presentations to individual/families on any disability related topic in Spanish.
    • Meet 1:1 with a student/family to help them navigate resources and find services in the community.
    • Help families struggling to get requests for services (e.g., Waiver) approved.
    • Help Spanish speakers connect with any needs they have in the disability realm.
FCPS NEWS Resources for New FCPS Families

Are you new to the area and need help understanding school registration or connecting with your local school? The following resources are available for all families:

  • Family liaisons work in the schools and community to help families get the information and assistance they need to support their children and to ensure their academic success. Family liaisons represent a variety of cultures, languages, and races.
  • Family information phone lines are available in nine languages to assist families. A school system employee will respond to your call in your preferred language within 24 hours, Monday through Friday.

Visit the FCPS Family Academy webpage to learn how FCPS works to support the continued success and well-being of each and every student. 

Get to Know FCPS: Family Orientation

This interactive orientation provides information about the school system, the links between family engagement and student achievement, school staff you should get to know, and programs and technology considerations for families. The orientation also includes a discussion that is helpful for families who are new to the United States.

Sessions in English are held online on:

  • Tuesday, December 10, at 6 p.m.
  • Thursday, December 19, at 6 p.m. 

Register in advance. Visit the Family Academy catalog page to see the dates this orientation will be offered in Arabic, Korean, and Spanish.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

  • Boundary Review Update
  • Native American History Month
  • Varsity Girls Wrestling Is New Winter Sport

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today. 

 

No-Cost Virtual Therapy for High School Students

Virtual therapy sessions are available to FCPS high school students at no cost to provide a safe space to address concerns such as:

  • Mood/behavior changes, motivation, grief/loss
  • Anxiety, worry, fears
  • Social skills, bullying, peer and family relationships
  • Academic stress

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

Visit the FCPS Teletherapy webpage for more information.

FCPS Quick Links WSHS Social Media Find WSHS Spartans on: Need Help? Contact our Family Liaison

If you have questions about navigating the school, learning about FCPS resources, or getting your student setup for success, our Family Liaison can help.  Email  or sign up for Talking Points.  Use code the code T6AXZW

6100 Rolling Road, Springfield, VA 22152 | Main Office: 703-913-3800
Attendance: 703-913-3838 or [email protected] | Web

WSHS Spartan Weekly News_ November 22, 2024

GovDelivery3 months ago

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

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

UPCOMING EVENTS NOVEMBER 

11/27-11/29: Thanksgiving Break (No School)

 

DECEMBER

12/17: WSHS Immunization Clinic (During school hours, parent consent needed)

12/23-1/3: Winter Break (No School)

🗓️ Calendar Reminder: Thanksgiving

Schools and offices will be closed Wednesday, November 27, through Friday, November 29. Classes will resume on Monday, December 2. See the complete school year calendar.

Note: FCPS This Week will not be distributed on Wednesday, November 27, due to the Thanksgiving holiday. 

❄️Prepare for Winter Weather

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

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

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

NEWS AND NOTES 💉NEW IMMUNIZATION CLINIC DATES

In collaboration with Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD), FCPS will host immunization clinics for all FCPS students on November 21 and 22 at its Willow Oaks Administrative Center. All school-required immunizations will be available free of charge.

 

  • Parents/Guardians must accompany students under the age of 18 and provide consent for your student to receive immunizations. Students ages 18 years and older may provide their own consent. 

 

  • Although appointments are not needed, parents are asked to complete the sign up form, located on the Immunization Resources webpage, to choose a preferred time slot. Staff may also assist parents/guardians to complete the form.

 

  • Parents/Guardians should bring an insurance card (if applicable). Insurance is not required to participate.

 

  • Language interpreters will be present.   

 

Clinic location: 8270 Willow Oaks Corporate Drive, Fairfax, VA 22031

 

Dates and Times: 

Thursday, November 21, 2024  1 - 7 p.m.

Friday, November 22, 2024        8 a.m. - 2 p.m.

 

**Rising 12th graders who are need of the Meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY) and are 16 can receive it here or at the WSHS Clinic on December 17th**

West Springfield Food Pantry Food Drive

West Springfield High School Food Pantry is looking for non-perishable donations for:

Cereal

Boxed, non-refrigerated milk

Peanut Butter

Jelly

Spaghetti Sauce

Pasta

Canned Pumpkin Pie, evaporated milk and pie crust

Stuffing

Canned Green beans

Granola bars

Crackers

Rice

Canned beans

Canned Tuna Fish

 

Deodorant

Shampoo

Conditioner

Toothpaste

Toilet Paper

Laundry Detergent

Paper towels

 

 Drop off donations during school days / office hours inside the front door #1 at WSHS.  There is a drop off inside the double doors.  

TECHNOLOGY 💻Technology Reminders

As we continue on in the school year, please remind your students to take good care of their school issued laptops. We have noticed an increase in broken screens, and we believe that many of these incidents could be prevented with a little extra care. Here are a few tips that you can share with your students:

  • Carry laptops with two hands by the base rather than by the screen.
  • Avoid placing heavy objects on top of the laptop, overfilling backpacks with bulky items, or dropping backpacks with laptops inside.
  • Be careful when closing the laptop, closing pens or other objects inside the clamshell can crack the screen.
  • Avoid eating or drinking near the laptop. Keep water bottles away from laptops when stored in a backpack.
  • Keep the laptop away from pets and small children.

By following these simple tips, students can safeguard their laptops and reduce the likelihood of damage. Thank you!

STUDENT SERVICES Academic Advising Timeline 2025-2026

Mark your calendars with the following dates to assist with choosing courses for next school year.

  1. Curriculum Night  | January 9, 2025 | 6:30-8:00 pm in the Cafeteria for students and families
  2. Future Spartan Orientation | January 13, 2025 |  Rising 9th graders will visit West Springfield HS 
  3. Academic Days of Emphasis | January 16-22, 2025 | Student in Grades 9, 10, and 11, will meet with their current teachers to discuss their feedback.
  4. Pre-Advising Learning Seminar | Pre-Advising Lesson shared with Grades 9, 10, and 11 during LS to go over Academic Advising Process. 
  5. Curriculum Fair | Opportunity for students to visit different classes and get information on specific classes in which they may be interested. 
  6. Academic Advising Rising Juniors | February 3-7, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  7. Academic Advising Rising Seniors | February 10-14, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  8. Academic Advising Rising Sophomores | February 17-24, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  9. Last Day to Make Class Schedule Requests for the 2025-2026 School Year | March 31, 2025
🔦SPARTAN SPOTLIGHT 🎵Performing Arts Teachers: Virginia Music Educators Association Conference

Three of our superstar Performing Arts teachers are representing West Springfield this Thursday and Friday at the Virginia Music Educators Association Conference.

 

  • Alexandra Blaine will be presenting a workshop entitled “Motherhood and Music Education.”
  • Dustin Brandt is supporting one of our students who is performing with the prestigious honor choir composed of students from across the state of VA.
  • Wolson Gustama is conducting the Wind Symphony performance.

GO SPARTANS!

STUDENT CORNER Support Group: Adjusting to Divorce or Parental Separation

Join our Military Family and Life Counselor, Ms. Burnside and fellow students of divorced or separated parents support group.  

 

When: December 4,6,18, and 20 during LS 4

Where: Main office, Room 1006

Special instructions: Fill out the consent form and return to Ms. Burnside in Room 1006 prior to the meeting using the QR code or ask the office or family liaison for a copy.

Space is limited!

WSHS Low Incidence Small Business

DID YOU KNOW… Our special education students in the Low Incidence program started a small business?! We make Crayon Letters, Lanyards, Wooden Signs and Cups!

Original Creations is a small business that offers meaningful work experiences to students with intellectual and developmental disabilities at West Springfield High School. It provides opportunities for them to develop a wide range of functional skills that are essential for independence. It celebrates their willingness to learn, as well as the hard work and love they put into each product.

 Check it out and share with family/friends! https://sites.google.com/view/wshsoriginalcreations/home

🚗Learner's Permit Test at WSHS

When: 3:10pm- specific dates below

Where: Room 2228

Cost: $25

2024-25 Dates: 1st Semester shown below

  • December 5
  • January 9

 

Who can take the test: Students MUST be 15 years and 6 months old by the day of the test

  • This test is for Fairfax County Public School students ONLY (FCPS ID is required).
  •     If you have had 2 unsuccessful attempts at passing this test, then you are required to test at the DMV for your 3rd attempt.

 

Please read the instructions below carefully…

 

How to Register:

  1. Visit FCPS ACE and sign up for a specific date- fcps.edu
  2. Once registered on the FCPS ACE site, you must also register with the DMV. A link is provided during the ACE registration and in your confirmation email. Failure to register with the DMV will result in not being able to test since they issue the secure testing codes to FCPS proctors. 

 

The following are required to the take the test- bring them with you on your test day:

  • A picture ID to verify identity. If the student does not have a picture ID, take a picture, write the student's full legal name under the picture, and have a teacher sign to verify the student's identity.  You may also show your photo from SIS.
  • Earbuds/headphones to listen to directions and test audio (optional).

 

NEED TO PREPARE FOR THE LEARNERS PERMIT TEST? SIGN UP FOR ONE OF THE PREP COURSES!

These 90-minute classes are offered on Zoom and help to prepare students for the permit test. Sign up on aceclasses.fcps.edu. Dates for 1st Semester are 9/25, 10/21, 11/18, 12/4, 1/8.

 

Send any questions to Casey Grubbs ([email protected])

PTSA 🍽️WSHS PTSA Restaurant Week: Yindee Thai

November 17-23

Lunch and dinner all week

Carry out and delivery must use link

Dining in: Mention WSHS PTSA

 

10% of sales will be donated to the PTSA

8412 Old Keene Mill Road

703-992-7998

Questions? [email protected]

 

🎭Reflections Art Contest: Last Chance!

Next week (Nov. 30) is the last opportunity for student submissions to the PTA Reflections art competition!

 Accepting Imperfection is the theme this year and you can submit in the following categories:

Dance choreography

Film production

Literature

 Music composition

 Photography

  Visual Arts

 

 

All submissions are due by midnight November 30. More information can be found by scanning the QR code or by visiting PTSA Reflections Program – WSHS PTSA

>>>If you are willing to help out by serving as a judge, please contact [email protected]<<<<

 

 

West Springfield High PTSA

https://wshsptsa.net/  

SPORTS  Spartan Girls Wrestling Team: ECHO Food Drive

The Spartan Girls Wrestling Team will begin its inaugural season by hosting a food drive benefitting ECHO (Ecumenical Community Helping Others). 

In an effort to help Take Down hunger in our community, we’ll collect non-perishable food items at our scrimmage at WSHS on November 23, 8 am-12 pm. Help us fill their shelves in time for Thanksgiving.

ECHO’s most requested items right now are:

spaghetti sauce, cereal, and canned fruit

Dynamite Sports: Guiding the College-Bound Athlete Seminar

Attention parents and athletes!

In an effort to educate parents and athletes about NCAA Eligibility, Athletic scholarships and the college recruiting process, Dynamite Sports will conduct a one-hour seminar entitled “Guiding the College-Bound Athlete” on Thursday Dec 5 at 7:30 p.m. at Robinson in Recital Hall.

This seminar will help you to become more knowledgeable and REALISTIC about athletic scholarships and the recruiting process. 

 

This seminar will teach you how to:

  • Setup COLLEGE Visits
  • Receive a SCHOLARSHIP or GRANT
  • Get NOTICED & RECRUITED
  • Ensure NCAA Freshman Eligibility
  • Create a “RECRUITING BLUEPRINT”
  • Communicate with COLLEGE COACHES
  • Why they should start as early as 7th grade

 

Attendees will receive a SAT/ACT Prep program valued at $350!

*Limit 1 per family / Tech Support not included*

Spirit Wear and Tickets

If you don’t have Spartan spirit wear,  don’t worry -- the Booster Club will have plenty for sale!

The cost of all games is $5.00 for students and $7 for adults. 

To avoid long lines, we strongly encourage you to purchase a Season Pass, through our eTIX Site.  Or you can purchase individual game tickets here.

PLEASE VISIT our WEBSITE www.spartansports.net for more information and our game schedule.

Spartan Sports Calendar Week of November 25-30 Stay in Touch with Spartan Sports! 

You can follow WSHS Spartan Sports on social media:

Website: www.spartansports.net

Instagram: @wshs_sports

Sign Up For the Sports and Activities News You Choose

School Activities Calendar. Check it out. 

NEWS FOR THE COMMUNITY FREE Thanksgiving Dinner

When: Friday, Nov 22

Time: 6-8 p.m.

Where: Sully Community Center, Herndon VA

Emotional Support Line – GMU Center for Community Mental Health

Families can access free, anonymous and confidential support from the comfort of your home. Trained providers are available 7 days/week to offer help, teach evidence-based skills and to listen. Low-cost therapy sessions are also available upon request.

  • The ARC Center of Fairfax has a Spanish Outreach Fellow, Majorie Flores, who is dedicated to helping students and families who speak Spanish in navigating the disability world. She can:
    • Give free presentations to individual/families on any disability related topic in Spanish.
    • Meet 1:1 with a student/family to help them navigate resources and find services in the community.
    • Help families struggling to get requests for services (e.g., Waiver) approved.
    • Help Spanish speakers connect with any needs they have in the disability realm.
FCPS NEWS Resources for New FCPS Families

Are you new to the area and need help understanding school registration or connecting with your local school? The following resources are available for all families:

  • Family liaisons work in the schools and community to help families get the information and assistance they need to support their children and to ensure their academic success. Family liaisons represent a variety of cultures, languages, and races.
  • Family information phone lines are available in nine languages to assist families. A school system employee will respond to your call in your preferred language within 24 hours, Monday through Friday.

Visit the FCPS Family Academy webpage to learn how FCPS works to support the continued success and well-being of each and every student. 

Get to Know FCPS: Family Orientation

This interactive orientation provides information about the school system, the links between family engagement and student achievement, school staff you should get to know, and programs and technology considerations for families. The orientation also includes a discussion that is helpful for families who are new to the United States.

Sessions in English are held online on:

  • Tuesday, December 10, at 6 p.m.
  • Thursday, December 19, at 6 p.m. 

Register in advance. Visit the Family Academy catalog page to see the dates this orientation will be offered in Arabic, Korean, and Spanish.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

  • Boundary Review Update
  • Native American History Month
  • Varsity Girls Wrestling Is New Winter Sport

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today. 

 

No-Cost Virtual Therapy for High School Students

Virtual therapy sessions are available to FCPS high school students at no cost to provide a safe space to address concerns such as:

  • Mood/behavior changes, motivation, grief/loss
  • Anxiety, worry, fears
  • Social skills, bullying, peer and family relationships
  • Academic stress

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

Visit the FCPS Teletherapy webpage for more information.

FCPS Quick Links WSHS Social Media Find WSHS Spartans on: Need Help? Contact our Family Liaison

If you have questions about navigating the school, learning about FCPS resources, or getting your student setup for success, our Family Liaison can help.  Email  or sign up for Talking Points.  Use code the code T6AXZW

6100 Rolling Road, Springfield, VA 22152 | Main Office: 703-913-3800
Attendance: 703-913-3838 or [email protected] | Web

Thankful Thursday: LAST CHANCE to Thank a WSHS Staff Member

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🦃Thank a Staff Member

At West Springfield HS, we are thankful for our students, our families and our staff. 

If you would like to take the opportunity to let WSHS staff members know you are thankful for them, please take a minute to fill out this form by Friday, November 22, 204. 

https://forms.gle/ngjfQjUEhQEEVce26

At the beginning of Thanksgiving week, we will print your notes and deliver them to the staff members.

Thank you for helping our staff feel appreciated!

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

6100 Rolling Road, Springfield, VA 22152 | Main Office: 703-913-3800
Attendance: 703-913-3838 or [email protected] | Web

WSHS Spartan Weekly News_ November 15, 2024

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

UPCOMING EVENTS NOVEMBER

11/15-11/16 Spartan Theatre Presents: PUFFS 

11/27-11/29: Thanksgiving Break (No School)

 

DECEMBER

12/17: WSHS Immunization Clinic (During school hours, parent consent needed)

12/23-1/3: Winter Break (No School)

NEWS AND NOTES 💉NEW IMMUNIZATION CLINIC DATES

In collaboration with Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD), FCPS will host immunization clinics for all FCPS students on November 21 and 22 at its Willow Oaks Administrative Center. All school-required immunizations will be available free of charge.

 

  • Parents/Guardians must accompany students under the age of 18 and provide consent for your student to receive immunizations. Students ages 18 years and older may provide their own consent. 

 

  • Although appointments are not needed, parents are asked to complete the sign up form, located on the Immunization Resources webpage, to choose a preferred time slot. Staff may also assist parents/guardians to complete the form.

 

  • Parents/Guardians should bring an insurance card (if applicable). Insurance is not required to participate.

 

  • Language interpreters will be present.   

 

Clinic location: 8270 Willow Oaks Corporate Drive, Fairfax, VA 22031

 

Dates and Times: 

Thursday, November 21, 2024  1 - 7 p.m.

Friday, November 22, 2024        8 a.m. - 2 p.m.

 

**Rising 12th graders who are need of the Meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY) and are 16 can receive it here or at the WSHS Clinic on December 17th**

West Springfield Food Pantry Food Drive

West Springfield High School Food Pantry is looking for non-perishable donations for:

Cereal

Boxed, non-refrigerated milk

Peanut Butter

Jelly

Spaghetti Sauce

Pasta

Canned Pumpkin Pie, evaporated milk and pie crust

Stuffing

Canned Green beans

Granola bars

Crackers

Rice

Canned beans

Canned Tuna Fish

 

Deodorant

Shampoo

Conditioner

Toothpaste

Toilet Paper

Laundry Detergent

Paper towels

 

 Drop off donations during school days / office hours inside the front door #1 at WSHS.  There is a drop off inside the double doors.  

Activate a SIS ParentVue Account TODAY

IMPORTANT:

  • Email addresses can only be used ONCE to activate an account.  In order to activate a second account, a DIFFERENT email address must be used.
  • In order to fill out the online packets using ParentVUE, the enrolling parent must activate the account with the email they have on file with the school.

You can learn how to activate your account by going to this video or follow these steps:

  1. Contact the office during regular school hours and request an activation letter for SIS ParentVUE or use this SIS Parent Assistance Form found on the WSHS Homepage
  2. The school will provide a letter with an activation key and detailed instructions that expires at 12:00 a.m. (midnight) on the date listed in the letter.
  3. Once you receive the activation key, go to https://sisparent.fcps.edu and click on More Options in the bottom right corner.
  4. Click on Activate Account
  5. Review the SIS Parent Account Privacy Policy and select I Agree
  6. Enter your First Name, Last Name, and Activation Key as they appear on the letter.
  7. Enter your email address (which will become your username) and a password that meets the minimum requirements.
  8. You will then receive an email from [email protected] to complete the activation.  Click the link in the email before it expires.
  9. You will receive your confirmation of activation in a second email.
  10. CONGRATS, you now have a SIS ParentVUE account!

 

For more information, help, or to access translations please go to this site.

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 or use the QR Code to be taken to SIS ParentVUE.

If you don’t have a SIS ParentVUE account, contact your child’s school for an activation letter.

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

3. Next, click the ‘Federal Impact Aid Survey’ button on the bottom of the page:

 

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

**Paper copies for anyone who has not completed an Impact Aid form yet should have gone home with your student on 11/13.  Please return as soon as possible to help us meet the deadline of 11/19. 

STUDENT SERVICES Academic Advising Timeline 2025-2026

Mark your calendars with the following dates to assist with choosing courses for next school year.

  1. Curriculum Night  | January 9, 2025 | 6:30-8:00 pm in the Cafeteria for students and families
  2. Future Spartan Orientation | January 13, 2025 |  Rising 9th graders will visit West Springfield HS 
  3. Academic Days of Emphasis | January 16-22, 2025 | Student in Grades 9, 10, and 11, will meet with their current teachers to discuss their feedback.
  4. Pre-Advising Learning Seminar | Pre-Advising Lesson shared with Grades 9, 10, and 11 during LS to go over Academic Advising Process. 
  5. Curriculum Fair | Opportunity for students to visit different classes and get information on specific classes in which they may be interested. 
  6. Academic Advising Rising Juniors | February 3-7, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  7. Academic Advising Rising Seniors | February 10-14, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  8. Academic Advising Rising Sophomores | February 17-24, 2025 | Students meet one on one with their counselor. 
  9. Last Day to Make Class Schedule Requests for the 2025-2026 School Year | March 31, 2025
STUDENT CORNER Career Readiness Graduation Medal

Dear Seniors and Senior Parents,

We are excited to share that in alignment with the VDOE accreditation standards, West Springfield High School will be recognizing students with a graduation medal, to be worn at commencement, for achievement in the areas of education, employment, and career readiness.  

Completion of the ASVAB exam, with a minimum qualifying score, is the criteria for awarding the career readiness graduation medal.  We would like to encourage all students to participate in our administration of this assessment.      

This letter is to provide an additional reminder about the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB), a valuable career exploration tool that your student will have the opportunity to take at West Springfield High School on December 6, 2024. 

The ASVAB is a multiple-choice test administered by the Department of Defense that helps students identify their strengths and interests, and explore potential career paths. It's important to emphasize that taking the ASVAB does not obligate your student to military service in any way. Any results received will only be shared with the student. 

Here's why we encourage your student to participate:

  • Discover their strengths: The ASVAB assesses skills in areas like verbal, math, science and technical reasoning, providing valuable self-knowledge about their aptitudes.
  • Explore career options: Results can be linked to a wide range of civilian and military careers, helping students connect their skills to potential jobs.
  • Identify areas for improvement: The ASVAB can pinpoint areas where your student might benefit from additional support or coursework, aiding in their academic development.
  • Free and valuable resource: This assessment is offered at no cost to you and provides personalized information that can be used for career planning and decision-making.

We believe the ASVAB is a valuable tool for all students, regardless of their post-secondary plans. It provides personalized insights that can help them make informed decisions about their future.

Our next administration of the ASVAB here at West Springfield is December 6th. Details and sign up HERE. If you have any questions or would like to discuss this further, please don't hesitate to contact our College and Career Specialist, Jeff Toomer, at [email protected], or phone (703) 913-3985. 

WSHS Low Incidence Small Business

DID YOU KNOW… Our special education students in the Low Incidence program started a small business?! We make Crayon Letters, Lanyards, Wooden Signs and Cups!

Original Creations is a small business that offers meaningful work experiences to students with intellectual and developmental disabilities at West Springfield High School. It provides opportunities for them to develop a wide range of functional skills that are essential for independence. It celebrates their willingness to learn, as well as the hard work and love they put into each product.

 Check it out and share with family/friends! https://sites.google.com/view/wshsoriginalcreations/home

📸REMINDER ! Underclass Makeup and Retake Picture Day is coming to West Springfield High School

 

We look forward to Underclass retake and makeup photo day at your school on Friday, November 8, 2024 !

We would like to be sure we photograph any student who would like a retake, while we prioritize new students and students who were not able to make the original session . We have included guidelines for a successful retake day below so that we can work together to photograph all underclass students who both need and would like a retake picture.

 www.vosphoto.com/retakes

Students who have not previously ordered can still place a preorder for retake day using the link below:

https://vando.imagequix.com/g1001133216#login

🚗Learner's Permit Test at WSHS

When: 3:10pm- specific dates below

Where: Room 2228

Cost: $25

2024-25 Dates: 1st Semester shown below

  • November 21
  • December 5
  • January 9

 

Who can take the test: Students MUST be 15 years and 6 months old by the day of the test

  • This test is for Fairfax County Public School students ONLY (FCPS ID is required).
  •     If you have had 2 unsuccessful attempts at passing this test, then you are required to test at the DMV for your 3rd attempt.

 

Please read the instructions below carefully…

 

How to Register:

  1. Visit FCPS ACE and sign up for a specific date- fcps.edu
  2. Once registered on the FCPS ACE site, you must also register with the DMV. A link is provided during the ACE registration and in your confirmation email. Failure to register with the DMV will result in not being able to test since they issue the secure testing codes to FCPS proctors. 

 

The following are required to the take the test- bring them with you on your test day:

  • A picture ID to verify identity. If the student does not have a picture ID, take a picture, write the student's full legal name under the picture, and have a teacher sign to verify the student's identity.  You may also show your photo from SIS.
  • Earbuds/headphones to listen to directions and test audio (optional).

 

NEED TO PREPARE FOR THE LEARNERS PERMIT TEST? SIGN UP FOR ONE OF THE PREP COURSES!

These 90-minute classes are offered on Zoom and help to prepare students for the permit test. Sign up on aceclasses.fcps.edu. Dates for 1st Semester are 9/25, 10/21, 11/18, 12/4, 1/8.

 

Send any questions to Casey Grubbs ([email protected])

PTSA PTSA Meeting:  7:30pm Tuesday, Nov. 19

Featured speaker:  WSHS Technology Specialist Nicole Abba will talk about the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)  at WSHS.

Registration link:  https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIlcOmvqzgpH9N3PerIOx-Fe9XJXBLNXDj1

  Yindee Thai fundraiser ALL WEEK!!!

Help the PTSA raise funds by visiting Yindee Thai from this Sunday (Nov. 17) through next Saturday (Nov. 23) for lunch or dinner.

Dine in: Mention WSHS PTSA

If you order out, you must use this link for us to get credit

 

West Springfield High PTSA

https://wshsptsa.net/  

PERFORMING ARTS PUFFS: Or Seven increasingly eventful years at a certain school of magic and magic

This clever and inventive play “never goes more than a minute without a laugh” (Nerdist) giving you a new look at a familiar adventure from the perspective of three potential heroes just trying to make it through a magic school that proves to be very dangerous for children. Alongside them are the Puffs, a group of well-meaning, loyal outsiders with a thing for badgers “who are so lovable and relatable, you’ll leave the theater wishing they were in the stories all along” (Hollywood Life). Their “hilariously heartfelt!” (Metro) and epic journey takes the classic story to new places and reimagines what a boy wizard hero can be.

Puffs is not authorized, sanctioned, licensed or endorsed by J.K Rowling, Warner Bros. or any person or company associated with the Harry Potter books, films or play.

Recommended for all ages! No previous “wizard” knowledge required!

Fri, Nov 15 @ 7p | Sat, Nov 16 @ 2p & 7p

Tickets

🥪Panera Olympiad Fundraiser

Let Panera do the cooking for you next Friday night, November 15th, and support West Springfield’s Science Olympiad team.

Show this flyer at the Panera located on Rolling Road any time between the hours of 4-8pm or us the code FUND4U online, and Science Olympiad will receive 25% of the proceeds.

Thank you for supporting the team!

SPORTS  Spartan Girls Wrestling Team: ECHO Food Drive

The Spartan Girls Wrestling Team will begin its inaugural season by hosting a food drive benefitting ECHO (Ecumenical Community Helping Others). 

In an effort to help Take Down hunger in our community, we’ll collect non-perishable food items at our scrimmage at WSHS on 23 November 8 am-12 pm. Help us fill their shelves in time for Thanksgiving.

ECHO’s most requested items right now are:

spaghetti sauce, cereal, and canned fruit

Congratulations to our Girls Volleyball: Region Title Winners 

Here is the latest line-up for postseason events

Friday, November 15th

Occoquan Region Football Quarterfinal - Edison @ West Springfield 7:00 PM

Saturday, November 16th

VHSL State Cross Country Meet @ Oatlands (10:30 and 11:15 AM)

VHSL State Girls Volleyball Quarterfinals vs. Glen Allen @ West Springfield @ 3:00 PM  BRACKET HERE

🛏️Mattress Fundraiser: WS High School Band

If you or someone you know is looking to replace a bed in your home, now is the time! 

The West Springfield High School Band is excited to announce it will be hosting a one-day Mattress Fundraiser on Saturday, November 16th, from 10am - 5pm in the West Springfield High cafeteria. There will be 30 different styles of beds on display for customers to try. 

The brand name mattresses are made to order, have full factory warranties, are available in all sizes, and are priced below retail. In addition to beds, there will also be premium pillows, luxury sheets, mattress protectors, adjustable power bases and even massage chairs! Delivery & financing are available. 

 

Proceeds will go toward our trip to perform in the NATIONAL CONCERT BAND FESTIVAL in Indianapolis, Indiana. 

 

Visit the Facebook event and click “GOING”, INVITE YOUR FRIENDS! SHARE OUR POSTS: https://www.facebook.com/events/873369248238915/

Dynamite Sports: Guiding the College-Bound Athlete Seminar

Attention parents and athletes!

In an effort to educate parents and athletes about NCAA Eligibility, Athletic scholarships and the college recruiting process, Dynamite Sports will conduct a one-hour seminar entitled “Guiding the College-Bound Athlete” on Thursday Dec 5 at 7:30 p.m. at Robinson in Recital Hall.

This seminar will help you to become more knowledgeable and REALISTIC about athletic scholarships and the recruiting process. 

 

This seminar will teach you how to:

  • Setup COLLEGE Visits
  • Receive a SCHOLARSHIP or GRANT
  • Get NOTICED & RECRUITED
  • Ensure NCAA Freshman Eligibility
  • Create a “RECRUITING BLUEPRINT”
  • Communicate with COLLEGE COACHES
  • Why they should start as early as 7th grade

 

Attendees will receive a SAT/ACT Prep program valued at $350!

*Limit 1 per family / Tech Support not included*

Spirit Wear and Tickets

If you don’t have Spartan spirit wear,  don’t worry -- the Booster Club will have plenty for sale!

The cost of all games is $5.00 for students and $7 for adults. 

To avoid long lines, we strongly encourage you to purchase a Season Pass, through our eTIX Site.  Or you can purchase individual game tickets here.

PLEASE VISIT our WEBSITE www.spartansports.net for more information and our game schedule.

Spartan Sports Calendar Week of November 18-23 Stay in Touch with Spartan Sports! 

You can follow WSHS Spartan Sports on social media:

Website: www.spartansports.net

Instagram: @wshs_sports

Sign Up For the Sports and Activities News You Choose

School Activities Calendar. Check it out. 

NEWS FOR THE COMMUNITY 🦃Blessing Baskets

Looking for an opportunity to help the community?  Please consider donating a Blessing Basket or 2!  

Drop-off items on November 22, 4:30-6:30 pm at Ledo's Pizza and Robeks patio at Cardinal  Forest plaza: 8324 Old Keene Mill Road

Items to include in basket:

  • Laundry Basket to hold goodies
  • $20-25 gift certificate for Turkey (to local grocery store)
  • Cans of corn, green beans, and cranberries
  • Boxes of stuffing and mashed potatoes
  • Can/packet of gravy and can of cream of mushroom soup
  • Box of muffin/biscuit mix
  • Non perishable dessert of your choosing
  • Extra if you are inclined: Rice, Beans, Cereal, Dog Food, Socks, toys, toiletries, games, laundry detergent, etc.

Scan the QR code above or follow this link to sign up to donate!

Questions? Email Ania Cress or Anita Anderson

FCPS NEWS Get to Know FCPS: Family Orientation

This interactive orientation provides information about the school system, the links between family engagement and student achievement, school staff you should get to know, and programs and technology considerations for families. The orientation also includes a discussion that is helpful for families who are new to the United States.

Sessions in English are held online on:

  • Tuesday, December 10, at 6 p.m.
  • Thursday, December 19, at 6 p.m. 

Register in advance. Visit the Family Academy catalog page to see the dates this orientation will be offered in Arabic, Korean, and Spanish.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

  • Boundary Review Committee Meetings
  • Resources on IEPs, Financial Aid, Literacy, Community Leadership
  • Teacher Hiring Event

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today. 

No-Cost Virtual Therapy for High School Students

Virtual therapy sessions are available to FCPS high school students at no cost to provide a safe space to address concerns such as:

  • Mood/behavior changes, motivation, grief/loss
  • Anxiety, worry, fears
  • Social skills, bullying, peer and family relationships
  • Academic stress

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

Visit the FCPS Teletherapy webpage for more information.

FCPS Quick Links WSHS Social Media Find WSHS Spartans on: Need Help? Contact our Family Liaison

If you have questions about navigating the school, learning about FCPS resources, or getting your student setup for success, our Family Liaison can help.  Email  or sign up for Talking Points.  Use code the code T6AXZW

6100 Rolling Road, Springfield, VA 22152 | Main Office: 703-913-3800
Attendance: 703-913-3838 or [email protected] | Web

Thankful Thursday: Thank a WSHS Staff Member

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🦃Thank a Staff Member

At West Springfield HS, we are thankful for our students, our families and our staff. 

If you would like to take the opportunity to let WSHS staff members know you are thankful for them, please take a minute to fill out this form by Friday, November 22, 204. 

https://forms.gle/ngjfQjUEhQEEVce26

At the beginning of Thanksgiving week, we will print your notes and deliver them to the staff members.

Thank you for helping our staff feel appreciated!

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

6100 Rolling Road, Springfield, VA 22152 | Main Office: 703-913-3800
Attendance: 703-913-3838 or [email protected] | Web

WSHS Spartan Weekly News_ November 8, 2024

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

UPCOMING EVENTS NOVEMBER

11/11: Veterans Day (Holiday, No School)

11/14-11/16 Spartan Theatre Presents: PUFFS 

11/27-11/29: Thanksgiving Break (No School)

 

DECEMBER

12/23-1/3: Winter Break (No School)

🗓️ Calendar Reminder: Veterans Day  

Monday, November 11, is a holiday and schools will be closed. See the complete school year calendar.

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) proudly honors and celebrates Veterans Day as we recognize the courage, commitments, and sacrifices made by our nation’s veterans.  

We pause to pay tribute to all men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces, including members of the WSHS family. We extend our deepening gratitude to our veterans and their families, who have shown unwavering strength and dedication. 

NEWS AND NOTES REPORT CARDS

Report Cards will be available November 12th in ParentVue.  If you are in need of a physical copy of the report card please email: [email protected].

 

Don't have a ParentVue account?  Activate now!

You can learn how to activate your account by going to this video or follow these steps:

  1. Contact the office during regular school hours and request an activation letter for SIS ParentVUE.
  2. The school will provide a letter with an activation key and detailed instructions that expires at 12:00 a.m. (midnight) on the date listed in the letter.
  3. Once you receive the activation key, go to https://sisparent.fcps.edu and click on More Options in the bottom right corner.
  4. Click on Activate Account
  5. Review the SIS Parent Account Privacy Policy and select I Agree
  6. Enter your First Name, Last Name, and Activation Key as they appear on the letter.
  7. Enter your email address (which will become your username) and a password that meets the minimum requirements.
  8. You will then receive an email from [email protected] to complete the activation.  Click the link in the email before it expires.
  9. You will receive your confirmation of activation in a second email.
  10. CONGRATS, you now have a SIS ParentVUE account!

 

For more information, help, or to access translations please go to this site.

🎖️Veterans Day Poster Submission

We would like to honor veterans in our community by displaying posters throughout the school that include pictures and information that is submitted by our family members.  If you would like to participate, please complete this google form using this link and upload any pictures that you would like to be displayed. 

SAVE THE DATE: Veterans Day Ceremony

Please join us in honoring those who have served in our Armed Forces

Friday, November 8th at 7:45am 

Flag Ceremony by JROTC

WSHS Band

 We encourage everyone to wear yellow on Friday in support of all of the veterans in our community. 

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 or use the QR Code to be taken to SIS ParentVUE.

If you don’t have a SIS ParentVUE account, contact your child’s school for an activation letter.

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

3. Next, click the ‘Federal Impact Aid Survey’ button on the bottom of the page:

 

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

 

STUDENT CORNER Career Readiness Graduation Medal

Dear Seniors and Senior Parents,

We are excited to share that in alignment with the VDOE accreditation standards, West Springfield High School will be recognizing students with a graduation medal, to be worn at commencement, for achievement in the areas of education, employment, and career readiness.  

Completion of the ASVAB exam, with a minimum qualifying score, is the criteria for awarding the career readiness graduation medal.  We would like to encourage all students to participate in our administration of this assessment.      

This letter is to provide an additional reminder about the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB), a valuable career exploration tool that your student will have the opportunity to take at West Springfield High School on December 6, 2024. 

The ASVAB is a multiple-choice test administered by the Department of Defense that helps students identify their strengths and interests, and explore potential career paths. It's important to emphasize that taking the ASVAB does not obligate your student to military service in any way. Any results received will only be shared with the student. 

Here's why we encourage your student to participate:

  • Discover their strengths: The ASVAB assesses skills in areas like verbal, math, science and technical reasoning, providing valuable self-knowledge about their aptitudes.
  • Explore career options: Results can be linked to a wide range of civilian and military careers, helping students connect their skills to potential jobs.
  • Identify areas for improvement: The ASVAB can pinpoint areas where your student might benefit from additional support or coursework, aiding in their academic development.
  • Free and valuable resource: This assessment is offered at no cost to you and provides personalized information that can be used for career planning and decision-making.

We believe the ASVAB is a valuable tool for all students, regardless of their post-secondary plans. It provides personalized insights that can help them make informed decisions about their future.

Our next administration of the ASVAB here at West Springfield is December 6th. Details and sign up HERE. If you have any questions or would like to discuss this further, please don't hesitate to contact our College and Career Specialist, Jeff Toomer, at [email protected], or phone (703) 913-3985. 

WSHS Low Incidence Small Business

DID YOU KNOW… Our special education students in the Low Incidence program started a small business?! We make Crayon Letters, Lanyards, Wooden Signs and Cups!

Original Creations is a small business that offers meaningful work experiences to students with intellectual and developmental disabilities at West Springfield High School. It provides opportunities for them to develop a wide range of functional skills that are essential for independence. It celebrates their willingness to learn, as well as the hard work and love they put into each product.

 Check it out and share with family/friends! https://sites.google.com/view/wshsoriginalcreations/home

📸REMINDER ! Underclass Makeup and Retake Picture Day is coming to West Springfield High School

 

We look forward to Underclass retake and makeup photo day at your school on Friday, November 8, 2024 !

We would like to be sure we photograph any student who would like a retake, while we prioritize new students and students who were not able to make the original session . We have included guidelines for a successful retake day below so that we can work together to photograph all underclass students who both need and would like a retake picture.

 www.vosphoto.com/retakes

Students who have not previously ordered can still place a preorder for retake day using the link below:

https://vando.imagequix.com/g1001133216#login

🚗Learner's Permit Test at WSHS

When: 3:10pm- specific dates below

Where: Room 2228

Cost: $25

2024-25 Dates: 1st Semester shown below

  • November 21
  • December 5
  • January 9

 

Who can take the test: Students MUST be 15 years and 6 months old by the day of the test

  • This test is for Fairfax County Public School students ONLY (FCPS ID is required).
  •     If you have had 2 unsuccessful attempts at passing this test, then you are required to test at the DMV for your 3rd attempt.

 

Please read the instructions below carefully…

 

How to Register:

  1. Visit FCPS ACE and sign up for a specific date- fcps.edu
  2. Once registered on the FCPS ACE site, you must also register with the DMV. A link is provided during the ACE registration and in your confirmation email. Failure to register with the DMV will result in not being able to test since they issue the secure testing codes to FCPS proctors. 

 

The following are required to the take the test- bring them with you on your test day:

  • A picture ID to verify identity. If the student does not have a picture ID, take a picture, write the student's full legal name under the picture, and have a teacher sign to verify the student's identity.  You may also show your photo from SIS.
  • Earbuds/headphones to listen to directions and test audio (optional).

 

NEED TO PREPARE FOR THE LEARNERS PERMIT TEST? SIGN UP FOR ONE OF THE PREP COURSES!

These 90-minute classes are offered on Zoom and help to prepare students for the permit test. Sign up on aceclasses.fcps.edu. Dates for 1st Semester are 9/25, 10/21, 11/18, 12/4, 1/8.

 

Send any questions to Casey Grubbs ([email protected])

PTSA 🖼️Reflections Art Program: Accepting Student Submissions!

Help spread the word: we are now open to accept student submissions!

For more info about the WSHS program use the QR code above or visit our website at https://wshsptsa.net/programs/ptsa-reflections-program/

 

West Springfield High PTSA

https://wshsptsa.net/  

PERFORMING ARTS PUFFS: Or Seven increasingly eventful years at a certain school of magic and magic

This clever and inventive play “never goes more than a minute without a laugh” (Nerdist) giving you a new look at a familiar adventure from the perspective of three potential heroes just trying to make it through a magic school that proves to be very dangerous for children. Alongside them are the Puffs, a group of well-meaning, loyal outsiders with a thing for badgers “who are so lovable and relatable, you’ll leave the theater wishing they were in the stories all along” (Hollywood Life). Their “hilariously heartfelt!” (Metro) and epic journey takes the classic story to new places and reimagines what a boy wizard hero can be.

Puffs is not authorized, sanctioned, licensed or endorsed by J.K Rowling, Warner Bros. or any person or company associated with the Harry Potter books, films or play.

Recommended for all ages! No previous “wizard” knowledge required!

Thurs, Nov 14 @ 7p | Fri, Nov 15 @ 7p | Sat, Nov 16 @ 2p & 7p

Tickets

🥪Panera Olympiad Fundraiser

Let Panera do the cooking for you next Friday night, November 15th, and support West Springfield’s Science Olympiad team.

Show this flyer at the Panera located on Rolling Road any time between the hours of 4-8pm or us the code FUND4U online, and Science Olympiad will receive 25% of the proceeds.

Thank you for supporting the team!

SPORTS  🏐Volleyball Heads to Regionals

Congratulations to our Boys and Girls Volleyball teams for moving on in the Region tournament. 

Girls Semifinal schedule is below:

Thursday, November 7 @ Falls Church HS

5:30pm – Alexandria City vs Falls Church

7:30pm – Woodson vs West Springfield 

Falls Church and West Springfield will be designated as the home teams.

Boys Quarterfinals schedule is:

 Thursday, November 7 @ WSHS 

6:00 PM -- West Springfield vs. South Lakes @ West Springfield

🤼‍♂️Winter Tryouts 🛏️Mattress Fundraiser: WS High School Band

If you or someone you know is looking to replace a bed in your home, now is the time! 

The West Springfield High School Band is excited to announce it will be hosting a one-day Mattress Fundraiser on Saturday, November 16th, from 10am - 5pm in the West Springfield High cafeteria. There will be 30 different styles of beds on display for customers to try. 

The brand name mattresses are made to order, have full factory warranties, are available in all sizes, and are priced below retail. In addition to beds, there will also be premium pillows, luxury sheets, mattress protectors, adjustable power bases and even massage chairs! Delivery & financing are available. 

 

Proceeds will go toward our trip to perform in the NATIONAL CONCERT BAND FESTIVAL in Indianapolis, Indiana. 

 

Visit the Facebook event and click “GOING”, INVITE YOUR FRIENDS! SHARE OUR POSTS: https://www.facebook.com/events/873369248238915/

Dynamite Sports: Guiding the College-Bound Athlete Seminar

Attention parents and athletes!

In an effort to educate parents and athletes about NCAA Eligibility, Athletic scholarships and the college recruiting process, Dynamite Sports will conduct a one-hour seminar entitled “Guiding the College-Bound Athlete” on Thursday Dec 5 at 7:30 p.m. at Robinson in Recital Hall.

This seminar will help you to become more knowledgeable and REALISTIC about athletic scholarships and the recruiting process. 

 

This seminar will teach you how to:

  • Setup COLLEGE Visits
  • Receive a SCHOLARSHIP or GRANT
  • Get NOTICED & RECRUITED
  • Ensure NCAA Freshman Eligibility
  • Create a “RECRUITING BLUEPRINT”
  • Communicate with COLLEGE COACHES
  • Why they should start as early as 7th grade

 

Attendees will receive a SAT/ACT Prep program valued at $350!

*Limit 1 per family / Tech Support not included*

Spirit Wear and Tickets

If you don’t have Spartan spirit wear,  don’t worry -- the Booster Club will have plenty for sale!

The cost of all games is $5.00 for students and $7 for adults. 

To avoid long lines, we strongly encourage you to purchase a Season Pass, through our eTIX Site.  Or you can purchase individual game tickets here.

PLEASE VISIT our WEBSITE www.spartansports.net for more information and our game schedule.

Spartan Sports Calendar Week of November 11-16 Stay in Touch with Spartan Sports! 

You can follow WSHS Spartan Sports on social media:

Website: www.spartansports.net

Instagram: @wshs_sports

Sign Up For the Sports and Activities News You Choose

School Activities Calendar. Check it out. 

NEWS FOR THE COMMUNITY

 

  • On Friday, November 22 from 10-11:30am the Family Resource Center will be hosting a virtual parent presentation.  The topic is starting the conversation about drugs and will focus on how to have that conversation from an early age, as well as effective prevention strategies. Registration will be required and can be done on the website: https://www.fcps.edu/event/starting-conversation-about-drugs-webinar-families

 

  • Students have unlimited access to 24/7, on-demand, online tutoring support services through VarsityTutors.com at no cost to families. Students can connect online any time, any place, and in most K-12 subjects. Tutoring may be on-demand or scheduled at a time convenient for the student. Students automatically have access to the VarsityTutors.com tutoring service through a link in Clever unless a parent/guardian submits an opt-out request.

 

  • The Fairfax County Health Department will provide immunization appointments at their district offices for FCPS elementary students on limited early-release Mondays through December. All school-required immunizations will be offered at no cost. Parents should call 703-246-7100 to make appointments.
🦃Blessing Baskets

Looking for an opportunity to help the community?  Please consider donating a Blessing Basket or 2!  

Drop-off items on November 22, 4:30-6:30 pm at Ledo's Pizza and Robeks patio at Cardinal  Forest plaza: 8324 Old Keene Mill Road

Items to include in basket:

  • Laundry Basket to hold goodies
  • $20-25 gift certificate for Turkey (to local grocery store)
  • Cans of corn, green beans, and cranberries
  • Boxes of stuffing and mashed potatoes
  • Can/packet of gravy and can of cream of mushroom soup
  • Box of muffin/biscuit mix
  • Non perishable dessert of your choosing
  • Extra if you are inclined: Rice, Beans, Cereal, Dog Food, Socks, toys, toiletries, games, laundry detergent, etc.

Scan the QR code above or follow this link to sign up to donate!

Questions? Email Ania Cress or Anita Anderson

FCPS NEWS Get to Know FCPS: Family Orientation

This interactive orientation provides information about the school system, the links between family engagement and student achievement, school staff you should get to know, and programs and technology considerations for families. The orientation also includes a discussion that is helpful for families who are new to the United States.

Sessions in English are held online on:

  • Tuesday, November 12, at 6:30 p.m.
  • Tuesday, December 10, at 6 p.m.
  • Thursday, December 19, at 6 p.m. 

Register in advance. Visit the Family Academy catalog page to see the dates this orientation will be offered in Arabic, Korean, and Spanish.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

  • Fall Testing Results
  • Boundary Review Community Meetings
  • Resources for Families 

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.  

 

No-Cost Virtual Therapy for High School Students

Virtual therapy sessions are available to FCPS high school students at no cost to provide a safe space to address concerns such as:

  • Mood/behavior changes, motivation, grief/loss
  • Anxiety, worry, fears
  • Social skills, bullying, peer and family relationships
  • Academic stress

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

Visit the FCPS Teletherapy webpage for more information.

FCPS Quick Links WSHS Social Media Find WSHS Spartans on: Need Help? Contact our Family Liaison

If you have questions about navigating the school, learning about FCPS resources, or getting your student setup for success, our Family Liaison can help.  Email  or sign up for Talking Points.  Use code the code T6AXZW

6100 Rolling Road, Springfield, VA 22152 | Main Office: 703-913-3800
Attendance: 703-913-3838 or [email protected] | Web

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