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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:

• 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 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

• Newsletter Subscription Preferences
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• FCPS Parent Resource Center
• Safety Tip Line
• Educate Fairfax
• FCPS Cares
• School Year Calendars
•  2024-2025 | 2025-2026

WSHS Social Media Find WSHS Spartans on:

• Facebook
• Instagram ID: westspringfieldhs_fcps     
• X: https://twitter.com/wspringspartans
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@westspringfieldspartansnet416

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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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

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

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

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:

• 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 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

• Newsletter Subscription Preferences
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• FCPS Parent Resource Center
• Safety Tip Line
• Educate Fairfax
• FCPS Cares
• School Year Calendars
•  2024-2025 | 2025-2026

WSHS Social Media Find WSHS Spartans on:

• Facebook
• Instagram ID: westspringfieldhs_fcps     
• X: https://twitter.com/wspringspartans
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@westspringfieldspartansnet416

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

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

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:

• 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 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

• Newsletter Subscription Preferences
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• FCPS Parent Resource Center
• Safety Tip Line
• Educate Fairfax
• FCPS Cares
• School Year Calendars
•  2024-2025 | 2025-2026

WSHS Social Media Find WSHS Spartans on:

• Facebook
• Instagram ID: westspringfieldhs_fcps     
• X: https://twitter.com/wspringspartans
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@westspringfieldspartansnet416

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

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

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

💉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:

• General Registration Immunizations, https://www.fcps.edu/immunizations                   

• Fairfax County Health Department, https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/health/immunization/locations                  

• Immunization Resources, https://www.fcps.edu/immunization-resources       

 

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

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

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:

• General Registration Immunizations, https://www.fcps.edu/immunizations                   

• Fairfax County Health Department, https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/health/immunization/locations                  

• Immunization Resources, https://www.fcps.edu/immunization-resources       

 

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:

• 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 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

• Newsletter Subscription Preferences
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• FCPS Parent Resource Center
• Safety Tip Line
• Educate Fairfax
• FCPS Cares
• School Year Calendars
•  2024-2025 | 2025-2026

WSHS Social Media Find WSHS Spartans on:

• Facebook
• Instagram ID: westspringfieldhs_fcps     
• X: https://twitter.com/wspringspartans
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@westspringfieldspartansnet416

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

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 💉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:

• General Registration Immunizations, https://www.fcps.edu/immunizations                   

• Fairfax County Health Department, https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/health/immunization/locations                  

• Immunization Resources, https://www.fcps.edu/immunization-resources       

 

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:

• 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 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

• Newsletter Subscription Preferences
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• FCPS Parent Resource Center
• Safety Tip Line
• Educate Fairfax
• FCPS Cares
• School Year Calendars
•  2024-2025 | 2025-2026

WSHS Social Media Find WSHS Spartans on:

• Facebook
• Instagram ID: westspringfieldhs_fcps     
• X: https://twitter.com/wspringspartans
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@westspringfieldspartansnet416

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

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:

• 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 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

• Newsletter Subscription Preferences
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• FCPS Parent Resource Center
• Safety Tip Line
• Educate Fairfax
• FCPS Cares
• School Year Calendars
•  2024-2025 | 2025-2026

WSHS Social Media Find WSHS Spartans on:

• Facebook
• Instagram ID: westspringfieldhs_fcps     
• X: https://twitter.com/wspringspartans
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@westspringfieldspartansnet416

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

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

🦃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

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

11/15-11/16 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:

• 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 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

• Newsletter Subscription Preferences
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• FCPS Parent Resource Center
• Safety Tip Line
• Educate Fairfax
• FCPS Cares
• School Year Calendars
•  2024-2025 | 2025-2026

WSHS Social Media Find WSHS Spartans on:

• Facebook
• Instagram ID: westspringfieldhs_fcps     
• X: https://twitter.com/wspringspartans
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@westspringfieldspartansnet416

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

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

🦃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

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

11/11: 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:

• 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 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

• Newsletter Subscription Preferences
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• FCPS Parent Resource Center
• Safety Tip Line
• Educate Fairfax
• FCPS Cares
• School Year Calendars
•  2024-2025 | 2025-2026

WSHS Social Media Find WSHS Spartans on:

• Facebook
• Instagram ID: westspringfieldhs_fcps     
• X: https://twitter.com/wspringspartans
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@westspringfieldspartansnet416

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

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

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

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.

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

STEP 3: Next, click the ‘Federal Impact Aid Survey’ button on the bottom of the page:

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

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

Fri, 11/1: Diwali (Holiday, No School)

Mon, 11/4: School Planning Day (Student Holiday)

Tue, 11/5: Teacher Workday/Election Day (Student Holiday)

Fri, 11/8: Veterans Day Ceremony, 7:45 a.m.

Mon, 11/11: Veterans Day (Holiday, No School)

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

🗓️ Calendar Reminders: Quarter End/Early Release, Diwali/Día de los Muertos and All Saints Day, Student Holidays

Thursday, October 31, is the last day of the first quarter and a two-hour early release for students.

Friday, November 1, is a holiday for Diwali, Día de los Muertos, and All Saints Day. All schools and offices will be closed.

Schools will be closed for students on Monday, November 4, for a school planning day, and Tuesday, November 5 (Election Day), for a teacher workday.

☀️ Daylight Saving Time Ends (Fall Back)

Daylight saving time ends Sunday, November 3, at 2 a.m. Don’t forget to move your clocks back one hour! 

See the complete school year calendar.

NEWS AND NOTES 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

 

🎖️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. 

SPARTAN SPOTLIGHT

Tamino and West Springfield High School German Teacher Claudia Naworol.

While Tamino Beba attends class in Fairfax County, thousands of people more than 4,000 miles away are watching the West Springfield High School freshman on the silver screen. Tamino just made his acting debut in the German movie, “Woodwalkers,” and his education in Fairfax County Public Schools prepared him to work on the foreign film set. Read more about Tamino and FCPS’ German Dual Immersion program. 

STUDENT CORNER Discover Your Potential with the ASVAB!

What is the ASVAB?

The ASVAB, or Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery, is a free career exploration program that helps students identify their strengths and explore potential career paths. It's more than just a military test – it's a valuable tool for anyone planning their future!

How can the ASVAB help me?

1. Identify your skills: The ASVAB assesses your abilities in math, science, verbal skills, and mechanical comprehension, helping you understand your strengths.
2. Explore career options: Receive personalized career suggestions based on your ASVAB results and learn about different career paths and educational opportunities.
3. Plan your future: Whether you're considering college, trade school, or entering the workforce, the ASVAB provides resources to help you make informed decisions about your future.

Take the ASVAB at WSHS!

The ASVAB will be administered at WSHS on Friday, December 6, 2024, at 8:25 AM.

Registration is required! The deadline to register is Monday, December 2, 2024, by 3:00 PM.

Learn More:

Visit the ASVAB Program website for more information: https://www.asvabprogram.com/

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

📷Student Portraits Now Online

Families should have received an E-proof via email. Please remember to check your spam.

 

For any questions about your student's school pictures please contact: [email protected]

 

The team at Victor O’Neill Studios would like to thank West Springfield High School for a great picture day!

🚗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:

• 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 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/  

SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES 🌯Chipotle Night: WS Golf

Come support your WS Golf team at Chipotle!

Wednesday, November 6th, 4-8 p.m.

6230 Rolling Rd STE X

25 % of event sales get donated to the cause

Order online for pickup using the code: 7HGH687 or show the flyer at the restaurant

🛏️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 4-9 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

• 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:

• Calendar Reminders
• Resources for Families 
• Complete Impact Aid Survey

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

• Newsletter Subscription Preferences
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• FCPS Parent Resource Center
• Safety Tip Line
• Educate Fairfax
• FCPS Cares
• School Year Calendars
•  2024-2025 | 2025-2026

WSHS Social Media Find WSHS Spartans on:

• Facebook
• Instagram ID: westspringfieldhs_fcps     
• X: https://twitter.com/wspringspartans
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@westspringfieldspartansnet416

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

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

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

UPCOMING EVENTS OCTOBER

Thu, 10/31: End of Quarter 1 (2 Hour Early Release)

 

NOVEMBER

Fri, 11/1: Diwali (Holiday, No School)

Mon, 11/4: School Planning Day (Student Holiday)

Tue, 11/5: Teacher Workday/Election Day (Student Holiday)

Fri, 11/8: Veterans Day Ceremony, 7:45 a.m.

Mon, 11/11: Veterans Day (Holiday, No School)

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

🗓️ Quarter End/Early Release, Diwali/Dia de los Muertos and All Saints Day, Student Holidays

Thursday, October 31, is the last day of the first quarter, and a two-hour early release. Students will be dismissed at 12:55.

It is an Orange Day and the condensed bell schedule is as follows:

1st period: 8:10-9:13

3rd period: 9:20-10:23

5th period: 10:30-11:32

7th period: 11:39-12:41

Lunch 12:41-12:55

 

For all bell schedules and the 2024-2025 Orange and Blue calendar please visit the WSHS Website

 

Friday, November 1, is a holiday for Diwali, Dia de los Muertos, and All Saints Day. All schools and offices will be closed. 

Schools will be closed for students on Monday, November 4, for a school planning day, and Tuesday, November 5, for a teacher workday.

NEWS AND NOTES 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

 

💉Safeway Pharmacy Immunization Clinic FOR ALL FCPS STUDENTS

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

Monday, October 28, 3-7 p.m.

**NEW DATE: Tuesday, October 29, from 3 to 7 p.m

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

🎖️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. 

STUDENT SERVICES 📆 A Message from Testing

SAT and PSAT Scores Available in College Board Accounts:

On October 24th, students who took the SAT or PSAT on October 9th received their scores through their College Board accounts. Students who took the SAT or PSAT on a make-up date will see their scores in their account on November 7th.

If your student has never created a College Board account, they can register for one on https://www.collegeboard.org/. We recommend that they use a personal or family email (not their FCPS email) when registering to make sure that they are able to receive password reset links and retain access to their scores after they graduate or if they move schools.

If your student logs in to their College Board account and does not see their score, please have them reach out to Mrs. Fitzsimmons for instructions – [email protected].

 

AP Test Opt Out Forms Due October 31st

Students enrolled in AP classes received a pink “AP Opt Out Form” on October 2nd. This form allows students to review their AP exam history and “opt out” of one or more of their current AP Exams.

If your student would like to “opt out” of one or more AP exams this year, please sign this form and return it to Student Services by October 31st. As a reminder, FCPS will cover the fees for your student’s first 6 AP exams during their time in FCPS. If your student chooses to take more than 6 AP exams or chooses to “self-study” for an exam while not enrolled in the corresponding class, parents and guardians are responsible for paying all fees, which are non-refundable.

 

If your student never received a form, lost their form, or believes that their form is inaccurate, please have them visit our Assessment Coach, Laura Fitzsimmons, in the Main Office, room 1044. If you would like a copy of the form sent directly to you, you may email Mrs. Fitzsimmons – [email protected].

STUDENT CORNER Discover Your Potential with the ASVAB!

What is the ASVAB?

The ASVAB, or Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery, is a free career exploration program that helps students identify their strengths and explore potential career paths. It's more than just a military test – it's a valuable tool for anyone planning their future!

How can the ASVAB help me?

1. Identify your skills: The ASVAB assesses your abilities in math, science, verbal skills, and mechanical comprehension, helping you understand your strengths.
2. Explore career options: Receive personalized career suggestions based on your ASVAB results and learn about different career paths and educational opportunities.
3. Plan your future: Whether you're considering college, trade school, or entering the workforce, the ASVAB provides resources to help you make informed decisions about your future.

Take the ASVAB at WSHS!

The ASVAB will be administered at WSHS on Friday, December 6, 2024, at 8:25 AM.

Registration is required! The deadline to register is Monday, December 2, 2024, by 3:00 PM.

Learn More:

Visit the ASVAB Program website for more information: https://www.asvabprogram.com/

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

📷Student Portraits Now Online

Families should have received an E-proof via email. Please remember to check your spam.

 

For any questions about your student's school pictures please contact: [email protected]

 

The team at Victor O’Neill Studios would like to thank West Springfield High School for a great picture day!

🚗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:

• 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 1st Semester are 9/25, 10/21, 11/18, 12/4, 1/8.

 

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

PTSA

🥩Stock the Breakroom: HAPPENING TODAY!

If you forgot to order something, you can still bring items to the school today at 4pm (Door #1).

You can use the Amazon list to see what types of items are still needed.

Special call out:  we need more beef jerky!

🖼️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/  

SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES

Cardinal Forest first grade teacher Jennifer Walrath and her son, a West Springfield varsity quarterback and high school junior, hug on the sidelines of reading event she helped plan.

🏈WSHS Football and Cheer Teams Tackle Literacy With First Graders

Members of the West Springfield High School football team and cheerleading squad spent a morning last week sharing books with Cardinal Forest Elementary School first graders. 

Jennifer Walrath, a first grade teacher at Cardinal Forest Elementary School, organized the event. Walrath is also the mother of West Springfield junior and quarterback Brian Walrath. She wanted to build community between the schools and inspire a love of reading in the younger students, who often look up to high school athletes. Read about the literacy event. 

✨ Students reading on grade level by the end of third grade is part of FCPS Strategic Plan Goal 3: Academic Growth and Excellence. 

GO SPARTANS!

🏀Girls Basketball Interest Meeting

On Wednesday, October 30, there will be a Girls Basketball interest meeting at 3:10 in room 2228.

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 October 28-November 2 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 🐏Robinson Pyramid Family Resource Fair

Connect with resources available in Fairfax County in one place! 

Snacks will be served and childcare activities will be available

Tuesday, October 29, 6-8 p.m.

Robinson Secondary- Gold Cafeteria

 

Some agencies included are: Northern VA Community College, Edu Futuro, FCPS Family Resource Center, and MANY MORE!

 

🦃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:

• Federal Impact Aid Survey
• Advanced Placement School Honor Roll- West Springfield GOLD
• National Drug Take Back Day-October 26th

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

• Newsletter Subscription Preferences
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• FCPS Parent Resource Center
• Safety Tip Line
• Educate Fairfax
• FCPS Cares
• School Year Calendars
•  2024-2025 | 2025-2026

WSHS Social Media Find WSHS Spartans on:

• Facebook
• Instagram ID: westspringfieldhs_fcps     
• X: https://twitter.com/wspringspartans
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@westspringfieldspartansnet416

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

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

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

UPCOMING EVENTS OCTOBER

Sat, 10/19:  SGA Trunk or Treat and Screen on the Green, 5 p.m.

Thu, 10/31: End of Quarter 1 (2 Hour Early Release)

 

NOVEMBER

Fri, 11/1: Diwali (Holiday, No School)

Mon, 11/4: School Planning Day (Student Holiday)

Tue, 11/5: Teacher Workday/Election Day (Student Holiday)

Mon, 11/11: Veterans Day (Holiday, No School)

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

🗓️ Quarter End/Early Release, Diwali/Dia de los Muertos and All Saints Day, Student Holidays

Thursday, October 31, is the last day of the first quarter, and a two-hour early release for students. 

Friday, November 1, is a holiday for Diwali, Dia de los Muertos, and All Saints Day. All schools and offices will be closed. 

Schools will be closed for students on Monday, November 4, for a school planning day, and Tuesday, November 5, for a teacher workday.

See the complete school year calendar.

NEWS AND NOTES 🏥Health and Information and Emergency Care Forms

**All Health Information Forms are due Monday, October 21**

The Health Information Form (HIF) (SS/SE-71) and the Emergency Care Information form (SS/SE-3) provide valuable information regarding student health conditions. These forms are critical in the early identification of students who may need healthcare support in the educational environment.

Along with the development of Healthcare Plans (HCP) and Action Plans, the Public Health Nurses (PHNs) utilize the information contained in the HIF to develop teaching strategies for FCPS staff in order to meet the requirements of Regulation 2104 Health Services-School Health-Related Needs.

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

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

💉Safeway Pharmacy Immunization Clinic FOR ALL FCPS STUDENTS

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

• NEW DATE: Monday, October 28, 3-7 p.m.

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

👨🏾‍👩🏽‍👧🏽‍👦🏽Biannual Multilingual Learners Family Night

The ESOL department is inviting you to their biannual Multilingual Learners Family Night on October 24th, at 6:30 pm.

Parents are welcome to come at 6 to meet with the ESOL department.

The event will be held in the WSHS cafeteria and will feature topics such as:

• EDU Futuro resources and opportunities for parents and students
• Information about graduation requirements and Academy classes
•     Options after high school graduation, and any other questions you may have.

Please enter through Door #5.

A light dinner, interpreters, and childcare will be provided. We hope to see you there. 

 

👩🏽‍🏫OUTSTANDING EMPLOYEE AWARDS NOMINATIONS

Nominations will be/are now open for the Outstanding Employee Awards! To submit a nomination for a West Springfield High School Outstanding Employee in one of the categories below, please complete the nomination through this Google form link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdsQiEEwm8i0139Cq-k5MHLLGnfhRDXCi2b_4pOKqW_SayFaQ/viewform?usp=sf_link

You may nominate one employee at our school or multiple employees (one individual may only nominate one employee per category.)

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

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

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

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

Outstanding New Principal Eligibility: Has up to three years of experience as a building principal (in any school/school district)                            

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

Common positions in this category: Assistant and Associate Principals, Director of Student Activities, Director of Student Services

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

 Common positions in this category: School-Based Technology Specialist, Technology Support Specialist, Assessment Coach, Career Center Specialist, Instructional Coach, After-School Specialist, MTSS Coordinator, Psychologist, Social Worker, School Counselor, Safety and Security Specialist, Resource Teachers that serve in an administrative role in a school, Special Education Department Chairs that teach less than 50% of their time, Reading Specialists that do not have a regular course load/do not give grades

Outstanding Operational Employee Eligibility: At least one year of experience in current position as Schedule-A or Classroom Instructional Support Scale employee at their current location

 Common positions in this category: Administrative and Office Staff, Safety and Security Assistant, Custodial Staff, Food Service Staff, IA, PHA, PHTA, All Parent Liaisons

 The deadline to submit a nomination is November 15th

If you have any questions, please contact John Thorson at [email protected]

STUDENT SERVICES 📆AP Test Opt Out Forms Due October 31st

Students enrolled in AP classes received a pink “AP Opt Out Form” through their 1st period class on October 2nd. This form allows students to review their AP exam history and “opt out” of one or more of their current AP Exams.

 

If your student would like to “opt out” of one or more AP exams this year, please sign this form and return it to Student Services by October 31st. As a reminder, FCPS will cover the fees for your student’s first 6 AP exams during their time in FCPS. If your student chooses to take more than 6 AP exams or chooses to “self-study” for an exam while not enrolled in the corresponding class, parents and guardians are responsible for paying all fees, which are non-refundable.

 

If your student never received a form, lost their form, or believes that their form is inaccurate, please have them visit our Assessment Coach, Laura Fitzsimmons, in the Main Office, room 1044. If you would like a copy of the form sent directly to you, you may email Mrs. Fitzsimmons – [email protected].

STUDENT CORNER Discover Your Potential with the ASVAB!

What is the ASVAB?

The ASVAB, or Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery, is a free career exploration program that helps students identify their strengths and explore potential career paths. It's more than just a military test – it's a valuable tool for anyone planning their future!

How can the ASVAB help me?

1. Identify your skills: The ASVAB assesses your abilities in math, science, verbal skills, and mechanical comprehension, helping you understand your strengths.
2. Explore career options: Receive personalized career suggestions based on your ASVAB results and learn about different career paths and educational opportunities.
3. Plan your future: Whether you're considering college, trade school, or entering the workforce, the ASVAB provides resources to help you make informed decisions about your future.

Take the ASVAB at WSHS!

The ASVAB will be administered at WSHS on Friday, December 6, 2024, at 8:25 AM.

Registration is required! The deadline to register is Monday, December 2, 2024, by 3:00 PM.

Learn More:

Visit the ASVAB Program website for more information: https://www.asvabprogram.com/

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

📷Student Portraits Now Online

Families should have received an E-proof via email. Please remember to check your spam.

 

For any questions about your student's school pictures please contact: [email protected]

 

The team at Victor O’Neill Studios would like to thank West Springfield High School for a great picture day!

🚗Learner's Permit Test at WSHS

When: 3:10pm- specific dates below

Where: Room 2228

Cost: $25

2024-25 Dates: 1st Semester shown below

• October 24
• 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:

• 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 1st Semester are 9/25, 10/21, 11/18, 12/4, 1/8.

 

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

PTSA 🍣🍥Restaurant Night at Asian Grill

Help support our PTSA and our local businesses and come out to Asian Grill!

October 21-22, 2024 (Mon/Tues)

Dine-In or Carry-Out: 5:00-9:00 pm, 6228 Rolling Road, Springfield VA

**15 percent of proceeds go to WSHS PTSA, mention WSHS PTSA when placing your order or sign the sheet with your order amount

Click here for a copy of the written menu or click here to order online 

🍬Stock the Breakroom

 

When: October 25, 2024

What: The PTSA needs snack, coffee, drink donations AND Volunteers to help sort, deliver, and distribute items to the breakrooms. You can order on Amazon and they will ship directly to our teacher appreciation chairs.

• If you would like to donate goodies please use the QR code or the Amazon Wishlist Link
• If you would like to sign up to help with distribution please use the QR code or the Signup Genius Link.

All Orders should be delivered no later than THURSDAY, OCTOBER 24TH.

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR AMAZING WSHS TEACHERS AND STAFF!

🖼️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/  

SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES 🍪Cocoa and Cookies Social

Join us for a sweet treat and warm company!

 

What: "Beat West Potomac" Cookies & Cocoa Social 

When: Friday, October 18th, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM 

Where: West Springfield High School, Door #2

 

Coming to the game on Friday? We invite all military-connected families to join us for a cookies and cocoa social before the varsity football game vs. West Potomac. This is a great opportunity to connect with other families, mingle with some of our staff, and build community.

 

No RSVP; just stop by for a treat. We look forward to seeing you there!

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 October 21-26 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 🍬Trunk or Treat

SGA invites you to Trunk or Treat 2024

October 19th, 5-6 pm

Upper Parking Lot

Followed by screen on the green (bring chairs and blankets!)

 

 

🦃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, October 22, at 6:30 p.m.
• 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:

• College Fair and Postsecondary Nights
• Digital Citizenship Week
• Fairfax County Youth Survey

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

• Newsletter Subscription Preferences
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• FCPS Parent Resource Center
• Safety Tip Line
• Educate Fairfax
• FCPS Cares
• School Year Calendars
•  2024-2025 | 2025-2026

WSHS Social Media Find WSHS Spartans on:

• Facebook
• Instagram ID: westspringfieldhs_fcps     
• X: https://twitter.com/wspringspartans
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@westspringfieldspartansnet416

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

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

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

UPCOMING EVENTS OCTOBER

Mon, 10/14: Staff Development Day/Indigenous Peoples’ Day (Student Holiday)

Sat, 10/19:  SGA Trunk or Treat and Screen on the Green, 5 p.m.

Thu, 10/31: End of Quarter 1 (2 Hour Early Release)

 

🗓️ Calendar Reminders

See the complete school year calendar 

Yom Kippur/Evening-Only Observance Day

Friday, October 11, will be an evening-only observance day for Yom Kippur. There are classes that day, but important events will not occur after school.

Indigenous Peoples’ Day/Staff Development Day

Monday, October 14, is a student holiday and staff development day for Indigenous Peoples’ Day.

NEWS AND NOTES 💉Safeway Pharmacy Immunization Clinic FOR ALL FCPS STUDENTS

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

• Saturday, October 12, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
• NEW DATE: Monday, October 28, 3-7 p.m.

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

💉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 prior to the school’s clinic date.

 

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

 

Additional immunization information and resources are available below:

• General Registration Immunizations, https://www.fcps.edu/immunizations                   

• Fairfax County Health Department, https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/health/immunization/locations                  

• Immunization Resources, https://www.fcps.edu/immunization-resources       

 

🚘Attention Parents of 10th Grade Health, PE, and Driver Ed Students

A reminder that the first opportunity to attend the Partners for Safe Teen Driving (PSTD) presentation will be on Wednesday, October 16. The PSTD will begin promptly at 7pm in the WSHS Auditorium. Doors will open at 6:45pm and will be closed at 7pm.

This is a required component of Driver Education. Only students that are currently enrolled in HPE 10 at WSHS may attend. A parent is required to attend, and sit with, their child. Both the parent and student need to be present to earn completion credit.

Please bring a pen to complete the registration form. You will submit the completed form during the presentation. There is no need to register ahead of time. We anticipate large numbers for this session; only 1 parent needs to attend.

If you are unable to attend on October 16, you should plan to attend another session this school year(January 14, March 19, or May 21). Please address any specific questions to your child’s HPE 10 teacher.

STUDENT CORNER Discover Your Potential with the ASVAB!

What is the ASVAB?

The ASVAB, or Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery, is a free career exploration program that helps students identify their strengths and explore potential career paths. It's more than just a military test – it's a valuable tool for anyone planning their future!

How can the ASVAB help me?

1. Identify your skills: The ASVAB assesses your abilities in math, science, verbal skills, and mechanical comprehension, helping you understand your strengths.
2. Explore career options: Receive personalized career suggestions based on your ASVAB results and learn about different career paths and educational opportunities.
3. Plan your future: Whether you're considering college, trade school, or entering the workforce, the ASVAB provides resources to help you make informed decisions about your future.

Take the ASVAB at WSHS!

The ASVAB will be administered at WSHS on Friday, December 6, 2024, at 8:25 AM.

Registration is required! The deadline to register is Monday, December 2, 2024, by 3:00 PM.

Learn More:

Visit the ASVAB Program website for more information: https://www.asvabprogram.com/

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

📷Student Portraits Now Online

Families should have received an E-proof via email. Please remember to check your spam.

 

For any questions about your student's school pictures please contact: [email protected]

 

The team at Victor O’Neill Studios would like to thank West Springfield High School for a great picture day!

🚗Learner's Permit Test at WSHS

When: 3:10pm- specific dates below

Where: Room 2228

Cost: $25

2024-25 Dates: 1st Semester shown below

• October 24
• 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:

• 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 1st Semester are 9/25, 10/21, 11/18, 12/4, 1/8.

 

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

PTSA 🌮PTSA Social TONIGHT

When: Friday, Oct. 11, 5-6:30 pm

Where: Tacos and Tequila, 8326 Old Keene Mill Road

🍬Stock the Breakroom

 

When: October 25, 2024

What: The PTSA needs snack, coffee, drink donations AND Volunteers to help sort, deliver, and distribute items to the breakrooms. You can order on Amazon and they will ship directly to our teacher appreciation chairs.

• If you would like to donate goodies please use the QR code or the Amazon Wishlist Link
• If you would like to sign up to help with distribution please use the QR code or the Signup Genius Link.

All Orders should be delivered no later than THURSDAY, OCTOBER 24TH.

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR AMAZING WSHS TEACHERS AND STAFF!

🖼️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/  

SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES 🏀MARK YOUR CALENDAR: WINTER & SPRING SPORTS PARENT NIGHT

MONDAY, OCTOBER 14th

 

This meeting is for any parents who have student-athletes interested in trying out for a Winter or Spring Sport.  We will host staggered breakout sessions beginning at 6:30 PM.  Please enter through Door 5 and report to the designated rooms below.  Coaches will review season expectations and provide try-out information.

If your son/daughter plays a Winter and Spring Sport you should do your best to attend the Winter meeting first then visit the Spring meeting. 

 

Winter Sports Meetings will begin at 6:30 PM

Boys Wrestling: Alumni Hall

Girls Wrestling: 2114

Boys Basketball: 2207

Girls Basketball: 2208

Winter and Spring Track and Field: Spartan Hall

Rifle: 2413

Swim & Dive: Auditorium

 

Spring Sports Meetings will begin at 7:00 PM

Please Note: Crew will meet on a separate night

Boys Soccer: 2223

Girls Soccer: 2224

Boys Lacrosse: Blue Cafeteria

Girls Lacrosse: Orange Cafeteria

Girls Tennis: 2044

Boys Tennis: 2204

Softball: 2225

Baseball: 2228

 

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 October 14-19 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

Virtual Emergency Preparedness on a Budget: A Low and No-Cost Preparedness Resources Workshop will take place on October 15 from 7-8pm. Interested families can register at https://bit.ly/3TCIqUl?r=qr

. See attached flyer for more information.

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, October 22, at 6:30 p.m.
• 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:

• October is National Principals Month
• Boundary Review Plan Presentation
• Upcoming Community Conversations

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

• Newsletter Subscription Preferences
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• FCPS Parent Resource Center
• Safety Tip Line
• Educate Fairfax
• FCPS Cares
• School Year Calendars
•  2024-2025 | 2025-2026

WSHS Social Media Find WSHS Spartans on:

• Facebook
• Instagram ID: westspringfieldhs_fcps     
• X: https://twitter.com/wspringspartans
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@westspringfieldspartansnet416

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

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

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

UPCOMING EVENTS OCTOBER

Wed, 10/9: PSAT/NMSQT (Grades 10/11) and SAT Day (Grade 12)- (2 Hour Early Release for testers/No School for 9th Graders- see detailed information below)

Mon, 10/14: Staff Development Day/Indigenous Peoples’ Day (Student Holiday)

Thu, 10/31: End of Quarter 1 (2 Hour Early Release)

NEWS AND NOTES SAT/PSAT SCHOOL DAY

October 9th is the SAT/PSAT School Day when there will be no scheduled classes and no academies so that all staff can help proctor the tests. Most of our sophomores, juniors, and seniors will be participating in testing on this day, but freshmen will stay home on October 9th. If your student will be taking either the SAT or PSAT, please make sure that they bring their FCPS charger and laptop for the test on Wednesday.

 

**Most students will be dismissed at 12:20PM. A grab-and-go lunch will be available, and buses will leave the school at 12:55PM.**

 

Please note that all students with disabilities taught on an adapted curriculum (students receiving low incidence special education services) will continue to receive in-person instruction with a 2-hour early release on October 9.

 

Action Item: Students received an email from Laura Fitzsimmons on September 24th with specific instructions and their assigned test location. Please help your student check their FCPS Gmail account and read the instructions thoroughly. If your student can’t immediately find this email, have them search their inbox for “Room,” or reach out to Laura Fitzsimmons ([email protected]).

 

Students also received a “Test Ticket” during Advisory on October 1st that allows them to complete the Digital Readiness Check and explore the Test Preview, which we highly recommend before Wednesday, October 9th. Instructions for accessing the Bluebook testing app and the Digital Readiness Check can be found on the WSHS All Parents/Guardians Schoology Course or in the Student Services Schoology Course, Testing and Assessments folder.

💉Safeway Pharmacy Immunization Clinic FOR ALL FCPS STUDENTS

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

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

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

💉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 prior to the school’s clinic date.

 

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

 

Additional immunization information and resources are available below:

• General Registration Immunizations, https://www.fcps.edu/immunizations                   

• Fairfax County Health Department, https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/health/immunization/locations                  

• Immunization Resources, https://www.fcps.edu/immunization-resources       

 

👁️👂🏽VISION AND HEARING SCREENING

We will be conducting the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) required hearing and vision screening for all 10th grade students and all new students to Fairfax County Public Schools from October 21-25.

The screenings will be held during their Health & PE class.

Students who wear glasses or contacts must bring or wear them on the day they will be screened. 

STUDENT CORNER 📷Student Portraits Now Online

Families should have received an E-proof via email. Please remember to check your spam.

 

For any questions about your student's school pictures please contact: [email protected]

 

The team at Victor O’Neill Studios would like to thank West Springfield High School for a great picture day!

🚗Learner's Permit Test at WSHS

When: 3:10pm- specific dates below

Where: Room 2228

Cost: $25

2024-25 Dates: 1st Semester shown below

• October 24
• 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:

• 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 1st Semester are 9/25, 10/21, 11/18, 12/4, 1/8.

 

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

PTSA 📆 MEMBERSHIP MEETING: Tuesday, OCT 8

PTSA Membership Meeting Tuesday, Oct. 8, at 7:30pm

Register here for the Zoom meeting

Special panel discussion on "Life after WSHS:  How should I be preparing now?" featuring: 

• Justine Worthington: Senior Assistant Director for Visits & Events at The George Washington University

• Paul Steiner:  Administrator of Adult & Community Education for FCPS

This discussion, which will be facilitated by Jeff Toomer (WSHS College and Career Counselor) will help provide insights into what students (and parents) should be doing each year at WSHS to put themselves in the best position to pursue their dreams after high school!  

SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES 🏀MARK YOUR CALENDAR: WINTER & SPRING SPORTS PARENT NIGHT

MONDAY, OCTOBER 14th

 

This meeting is for any parents who have student-athletes interested in trying out for a Winter or Spring Sport.  We will host staggered breakout sessions beginning at 6:30 PM.  Please enter through Door 5 and report to the designated rooms below.  Coaches will review season expectations and provide try-out information.

If your son/daughter plays a Winter and Spring Sport you should do your best to attend the Winter meeting first then visit the Spring meeting. 

 

Winter Sports Meetings will begin at 6:30 PM

Boys Wrestling: Alumni Hall

Girls Wrestling: 2114

Boys Basketball: 2207

Girls Basketball: 2208

Winter and Spring Track and Field: Spartan Hall

Rifle: 2413

Swim & Dive: Auditorium

 

Spring Sports Meetings will begin at 7:00 PM

Please Note: Crew will meet on a separate night

Boys Soccer: 2223

Girls Soccer: 2224

Boys Lacrosse: Blue Cafeteria

Girls Lacrosse: Orange Cafeteria

Girls Tennis: 2044

Boys Tennis: 2204

Softball: 2225

Baseball: 2228

 

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 October 7-12 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. 

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, October 8, at 6:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, October 22, at 6:30 p.m.
• 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:
  • All FCPS Schools Accredited
  • How FCPS Is Teaching Reading and Writing
  • Become a Special Education Teacher

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

• Newsletter Subscription Preferences
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• FCPS Parent Resource Center
• Safety Tip Line
• Educate Fairfax
• FCPS Cares
• School Year Calendars
•  2024-2025 | 2025-2026

WSHS Social Media Find WSHS Spartans on:

• Facebook
• Instagram ID: westspringfieldhs_fcps     
• X: https://twitter.com/wspringspartans
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@westspringfieldspartansnet416

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

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

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

Superindendent Dr. Reid with members of the WSHS Military Ambassadors Club at the Blue Star Welcome Breakfast

UPCOMING EVENTS SEPTEMBER

Fri, 9/27: CANCELLED: Homecoming Parade, 4:30 p.m. 

Fri, 9/27: Homecoming Game: WSHS vs. Yorktown, 7 p.m.

Sat, 9/28: Homecoming Dance, 7-10 p.m. 

 

OCTOBER

Thu, 10/3: Rosh Hashanah (No School)

Fri, 10/4:    Teacher workday (Student Holiday)

Wed, 10/9: PSAT/NMSQT (Grades 10/11) and SAT Day (Grade 12)- (2 Hour Early Release for testers/No School for 9th Graders- see detailed information below)

Mon, 10/14: Staff Development Day/Indigenous Peoples’ Day (Student Holiday)

Thu, 10/31: End of Quarter 1 (2 Hour Early Release)

 

🗓️ Calendar Reminders: Rosh Hashanah/Teacher Workday

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

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

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

See the complete school year calendar.

NEWS AND NOTES 💉Safeway Pharmacy Immunization Clinic

For those of you in need of immunizations we would like to inform you of the following clinic opportunity with Safeway Pharmacy. 

 

Safeway Pharmacy will be providing immunizations for all FCPS students at no cost! Parents or guardians may schedule an appointment and provide consent for their student(s). The immunization clinics are being held at Frost Middle School, 4101 Pickett Rd. Fairfax, VA 22032, on:  

 

         Tuesday, October 8, 3 to 7 p.m.

        Saturday, October 12, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

 

Students under the age of 19, with a scheduled appointment and parental consent, must be accompanied by their parent, guardian, or another adult over the age of 18. 

 

Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are highly encouraged to avoid wait times. A parent or guardian must accompany walk-in students under the age of 19 in order to provide consent.  

💉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 prior to the school’s clinic date.

 

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

 

Additional immunization information and resources are available below:

• General Registration Immunizations, https://www.fcps.edu/immunizations                   

• Fairfax County Health Department, https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/health/immunization/locations                  

• Immunization Resources, https://www.fcps.edu/immunization-resources       

 

🗓️SAT/PSAT School Day-Oct. 9th

October 9th is the SAT/PSAT School Day when there will be no scheduled classes and no academies so that all staff can help proctor the tests. Most of our sophomores, juniors, and seniors will be participating in testing on this day, but freshmen will stay home on October 9th.

**Please note that students with disabilities taught on an adapted curriculum (students receiving low incidence special education services) will continue to receive in-person instruction with a 2-hour early release on October 9.

 

Action Item: Students received an email from "Laura Fitzsimmons" on September 24th with specific instructions and their assigned test location. Please help your student check their FCPS Gmail account and read the instructions thoroughly. 

 

The World Language Credit Exam is still open for registration. The deadline to register your student is October 4th. More information about the exam can be found on the FCPS WLCBE website. The exam will take place at WSHS during the school day on November 13th. 

 

Action Item: If you would like to register your student for the WLCBE, please fill out the registration form and have your student return it to their counselor.

ACTION NEEDED: Complete the Digital Resource Consent Form

This is a friendly reminder to please complete the Digital Resource Consent Form for your student(s). This form grants permission for your student to access digital resources that will enhance their learning experience this school year.

Please take a few moments to log in to the Digital Consent System and review the digital resource consent form: https://www.fcps.edu/family-resources/technology/digital-resources/consent/directions. If you have already done so, thank you!

If you have any questions or need assistance, please feel free to reach out to Nicole Abba at [email protected].

SPARTAN SPOTLIGHT 🎖️Kendra Burnside, Military Family and Life Counselor

We are so excited to spotlight our Military and Family Life Counselor (MFLC), Kendra Burnside.   She is available to provide support, resources, and non-medical counseling to our military-connected students and families. Eligible students/families for the program include active-duty service members, reserves, and national guard members. This is a voluntary, no cost, and confidential program (with the exception of duty to warn situations).  If a student or family is interested in support, a signed informed consent form must be on file before supporting the student.  Ask the office or family liaison for the form, which may be returned to the main office. Once the consent form is on file, the student is welcome to make an appointment or stop by her office.  Please see Ms. Burnside’s contact information below, and her schedule for this year. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.

Kendra Burnside

Military Family and Life Counselor

202-253-4937 

Office:1006 (Main office)

MWF 7:45am -2:45 pm

🎖️WELCOME BLUE STAR FAMILIES

About Blue Star Families

The families of our all-volunteer military make unprecedented sacrifices these days to serve our country. Blue Star Families was founded by military spouses in 2009 to empower these families to thrive as they serve. We're committed to strengthening military families by connecting them with their neighbors – individuals and organizations – to create vibrant communities of mutual support. We believe we're all stronger when we take care of one another.

 

Learn more about local programs and get connected: BlueStarFam

STUDENT CORNER 📚YEARBOOKS-On Sale Now

Make time stand still and buy your 2024-2025 WSHS yearbooks on sale now! 

Buy before 10/4 for the discounted price of $65.  

Get yours today!

 

https://Yearbookordercenter.com

Order number: 4150

📸SENIOR PICTURES

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

Session C: Monday October 21, Wednesday October 23,

Thursday October 24, and Friday October 25, 2024

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

You can also choose to bring your own formal attire from home. Approved formal wear includes: coat and tie, all black clothing, or black and white clothing. In addition to the free yearbook session, we also offer sessions that include casual/personality portraits and Cap and Gown portraits.

Please follow the link below to choose your session type and appointment time:

https://www.vosphoto.com/westspringfield

 

As a friendly reminder, appointments are needed for Senior Portraits.

If you have any questions, please email our Senior Portraits Team: [email protected]

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

🚗Learner's Permit Test at WSHS

When: 3:10pm- specific dates below

Where: Room 2228

Cost: $25

2024-25 Dates: 1st Semester shown below

• October 24
• 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:

• 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 1st Semester are 9/25, 10/21, 11/18, 12/4, 1/8.

 

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

SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES 🚣🏽‍♂️Sandy Run Boathouse-Open House

Students and Families meet the team and learn more about the upcoming season.  No previous rowing experience required.

September 28, 2024 

10 a.m.-12 p.m. 

Sandy Run Regional Park

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 September 30-Oct 5 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. 

FCPS NEWS

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

• FCPS Wants to Further Support Military Families
• FCPS College Fair
• Free Bus Passes for middle and high school students and discounts for low-income residents

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

• Newsletter Subscription Preferences
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• FCPS Parent Resource Center
• Safety Tip Line
• Educate Fairfax
• FCPS Cares
• School Year Calendars
•  2024-2025 | 2025-2026

WSHS Social Media Find WSHS Spartans on:

• Facebook
• Instagram ID: westspringfieldhs_fcps     
• X: https://twitter.com/wspringspartans
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@westspringfieldspartansnet416

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

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

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

Spartan Staff, Students, Families, and Community Members,

With the information we have regarding the predicted weather this afternoon and evening, we have decided to cancel the SGA Homecoming Parade and Tailgate.

 

We hope to keep all students, staff, and community members safe and look forward to celebrating our Homecoming at the scheduled indoor Pep Rally and football game!

 

Go Spartans!

 

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