The Pride

As we both fall back and look ahead to Quarter 2, we are proud to celebrate an outstanding start to the school year at Unity Reed High School. From the first day of school, our focus has been clear: ensuring that every Lion in our pride develops as an IB learner and remains on a successful path toward graduation and preparation for what lies beyond. Students and staff have embraced opportunities to grow as thinkers, communicators, risk-takers, and leaders, creating a school culture centered on achievement, belonging, and excellence.

This fall has been filled with memorable experiences and accomplishments. We proudly launched the inaugural season of PWCS boys volleyball while cheering on our many fall athletic teams as they represented Unity Reed with pride. Students engaged in powerful real-world learning through field trips, including visits to observe open-heart surgery and hands-on environmental science experiences at the Clifton Institute. Our gifted seminars challenged students to think deeply and explore new ideas, while Homecoming activities brought our community together in celebration of school spirit. Seniors began their final year strong through Senior Breakfast events focused on preparing for college, careers, and future success.

As we look ahead to the remainder of the year, we celebrate all that our students have accomplished so far and remain committed to supporting every Lion on the journey toward becoming an exceptional IB learner and graduating ready for the opportunities that lie ahead.

The Unity Reed Class of 2027 is already making the most of their final year as high school students. One of the first senior traditions that brought the class together was Senior Sunrise, a cherished event held on our football field that marks the beginning of the seniors' last year of high school.

Senior Sunrise is a tradition celebrated at schools across the country where graduating seniors gather early in the morning to watch the sun rise as a class, symbolizing a new beginning and the exciting journey ahead. At Unity Reed, the event provided an opportunity for students to reconnect after summer break and begin creating lasting memories during this important milestone year. The morning was filled with music, games, breakfast, and plenty of laughter. More importantly, it gave students time to enjoy one another's company and reflect on the friendships and experiences that have shaped their high school careers. As the sun rose over the football field, the Class of 2027 began what promises to be an unforgettable year together.

Senior Sunrise is just one of many traditions our seniors have embraced so far. Students have proudly painted their parking spaces and their senior jeans to showcase their class pride. They've signed their names on the Class of 2027 graduation mural as a pledge to cross the stage together next spring. In addition, seniors have begun creating their senior year bucket lists, identifying activities and experiences they hope to enjoy before graduation.

It may seem hard to believe, but our seniors are already approximately 25% of the way through their final year of high school. While time is moving quickly, there is still so much to look forward to. From athletic competitions and performances to senior celebrations, service opportunities, and special events, the year ahead will be filled with memorable moments. Of course, three of the most anticipated milestones remain on the horizon: Prom, Senior Sunset, and Graduation.

Unity Reed High School's annual Homecoming celebration brought our Lion community together for a week filled with school spirit, friendly competition, and unforgettable memories. From creative dress-up days to exciting athletic events and a dazzling dance, Homecoming once again showcased the pride and energy that make Unity Reed such a special place.

The festivities began with Spirit Week, when students and staff embraced daily themes and showed off their creativity: Jersey Day, Twin Day, Tacky Tourist Day, Throwback to 2016 Day, and Class Color Day. One of the most anticipated traditions was the annual Powderpuff Football game, which brought students together for an evening of spirited competition and fun. The excitement continued with our Homecoming Pep Rally, a celebration of student involvement and school pride. The rally featured energetic teacher-versus-student games, recognition of our outstanding fall sports teams, and impressive performances by the Unity Reed Marching Band, Cheerleaders, Latin Rhythms Dance Team, and SALC.

Friday night's Homecoming football game provided another opportunity for Lions to come together and cheer on their team. While storm delays briefly interrupted the evening's festivities, they did little to dampen the excitement and energy of the crowd. Students, families, alumni, and staff gathered under the lights to celebrate a tradition that remains a cornerstone of the Unity Reed experience.

The celebration culminated on Saturday evening with the Homecoming Dance. This year's theme, "City of Stars," inspired by La La Land, transformed the gym into a magical setting where students could celebrate and create lasting memories with friends. Dressed to impress, Lions danced the night away, enjoyed time together, and captured countless photos to commemorate the occasion.

Through spirited competition, shared traditions, and memorable celebrations, our students strengthened friendships, built school pride, and created moments they will remember long after graduation. We are grateful to the student leaders, sponsors, faculty, staff, and volunteers who made this year's Homecoming such a tremendous success and look forward to many more opportunities to celebrate together throughout the school year.

September was National Workforce Development Month, a time to recognize the programs and opportunities that prepare students for successful careers after graduation. At Unity Reed High School, our Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs provide students with hands-on experiences that help transform classroom learning into real-world skills and career pathways.

Recently, Prince William County Schools highlighted Unity Reed's Electrical Trades program as an example of the meaningful workforce preparation taking place across the division. Through the program, students gain practical experience while learning industry-relevant skills that can lead directly to employment, apprenticeships, additional training, or continued education after high school.

Workforce development is about more than learning a trade. It is about developing the knowledge, technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and professionalism needed to thrive in a rapidly changing workforce. Programs like Electrical Trades allow students to engage in authentic, hands-on learning while exploring careers that are in high demand throughout our region and beyond.

At Unity Reed, we are proud to provide students with opportunities to discover their interests, earn industry credentials, and build skills that will serve them well throughout their futures. Whether students choose to enter the workforce immediately after graduation, pursue an apprenticeship, enlist in military service, or continue their education, our CTE programs help ensure they are prepared for success.

Interested in applying for the Electricity Program - or one of Unity Reed's other CTE programs? Applications are open now!

You can also join us at 6:30 pm on Thursday, November 12 for a Specialty Program Information Night at URHS in order to learn more.

At Unity Reed, students are discover that some of the most meaningful learning happens when they ask questions, investigate ideas, and make connections beyond the classroom. Through inquiry-based learning experiences, students are actively engaging with concepts, testing theories, and exploring how their studies connect to the world around them.

What does this look like every day in our building? In physics classes, students recently transformed the hallways into laboratories as they investigated momentum through hands-on experiments. Working collaboratively, they collected data, observed motion in real time, and applied classroom concepts to authentic situations. Meanwhile, history students studying World War I found a unique way to connect learning with service through the International Baccalaureate (IB) CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) framework. As they examined the impact of the war and the symbolism of remembrance, students crocheted poppies, blending historical understanding with creativity and community engagement. MYP Earth Science students created an investigation to answer the question of "What makes the rocket go the highest?" They made their independent variable, dependent variable, and procedures to gather data and test their hypotheses. Construction classes engaged in inquiry also, collaborating with the project managers improving our campus to learn about the field, job site management, and career opportunities. From Theory of Knowledge (TOK) classes engaging in real-world resource sharing scenarios, to IB Environmental Systems and Societies testing their learning in collaborative groups, Unity Reed students are learning in meaningful, student-driven ways.

These experiences reflect the power of inquiry to deepen understanding, spark curiosity, and help students develop as knowledgeable, caring, and reflective IB learners. By exploring, creating, and connecting their learning to real-world experiences, Unity Reed students continue to demonstrate what it means to be active participants in their own education.

Each year from September 15 through October 15, Hispanic Heritage Month honors the histories, cultures, and contributions of people whose roots trace to Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. The observance begins on September 15 because it coincides with the independence anniversaries of several Latin American countries, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. It is a time to recognize the lasting impact of Hispanic and Latino communities on our nation while celebrating the traditions, achievements, and diverse cultures that enrich our schools and communities.

At Unity Reed High School, Hispanic Heritage Month was celebrated with enthusiasm, pride, and community spirit. Students enjoyed the vibrant rhythms of Latin music during lunch and had the opportunity to learn new dance moves while experiencing an important aspect of Hispanic culture. Throughout the month, students also explored the accomplishments of inspiring Hispanic leaders whose contributions have shaped history, government, science, education, arts, and social justice.

The Spanish Honor Society not only welcomed new members in the first quarter during their induction ceremony, but also helped bring learning to life through engaging activities during Hispanic Heritage Month that encouraged students to connect with Hispanic traditions, language, and culture in meaningful and enjoyable ways. These celebrations reflected the diversity that makes our school community strong and reminded us of the importance of learning from and appreciating the many cultures represented within our Lion Pride.

At Unity Reed High School, students are making a difference through the SAVE (Students Against Violence Everywhere) Promise Club, a student-led organization dedicated to creating a safe, welcoming, and inclusive school community. SAVE Clubs empower students to take an active role in violence prevention, promote kindness and connection, and ensure that every student feels seen, supported, and valued. Through awareness campaigns, service projects, and schoolwide initiatives, members work to strengthen Unity Reed's positive culture while encouraging students to look out for one another. The organization's mission aligns closely with our commitment to developing caring, principled, and compassionate IB learners.

The impact of Unity Reed's SAVE Club has earned recognition beyond our school community. The club has been featured by Prince William County Public Schools in online videos highlighting students' efforts to build a positive school climate and culture through advocacy, awareness, and service. PWCS has showcased the club's work in promoting student engagement and fostering meaningful connections among peers, recognizing the leadership and dedication of its members.

A special thank you goes to our SAVE Club sponsors, School Security Officer Mr. Bouchard and Ms. Hammad, whose guidance and support help students transform their ideas into meaningful action. Their commitment to empowering student leaders has helped the club grow into a valuable force for positivity and inclusion at Unity Reed. Through the efforts of these dedicated sponsors and student members, the SAVE Club continues to demonstrate how young people can make a lasting impact on their school community and help ensure that every Lion feels connected, supported, and safe.

Each day, long before the first bell rings and well after the last student leaves campus, Unity Reed High School's School Security Officers are hard at work helping to create a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment for our students, staff, and families. During National School Security Officer Appreciation Week, we proudly recognize and celebrate these dedicated professionals for the vital role they play in our school community. Thank you Officer Armstrong, Mr. Bouchard, Ms. Gomez, Ms. McCown, and Mr. Warner!

Prince William County Public Schools recently recognized School Security Officers across the division during National School Security Officer Appreciation Week, highlighting the essential role they play in maintaining safe learning environments for nearly 90,000 students throughout PWCS schools. While much of their work may go unnoticed, our School Security Officers make a lasting impact through their vigilance, kindness, and unwavering dedication. Whether assisting students, responding to emergencies, supporting school events, or simply offering a friendly greeting in the hallway, they help create an environment where students feel safe, connected, and ready to learn.

To our School Security Officers: thank you for your service, your dedication, and your commitment to the Unity Reed community. Your impact is felt every day, and we are grateful for all that you do.

Each month, we are spotlighting a different IB Learner Profile trait to our school and recognizing students who greatly embody that trait. In Quarter 1, we focused on students who demonstrated being great Thinkers and positive Risk-Takers.

Thinkers use critical and creative thinking skills to analyze and take responsible action on complex problems; they exercise initiative in making reasoned, ethical decisions.

Risk-takers approach uncertainty with forethought and determination; they work independently and cooperatively to explore new ideas and innovative strategies. Risk-takers are resourceful and resilient in the face of challenges and change.

Teachers were asked to nominate students who exhibited these traits and those students were awarded a certificate for their achievement, along with a Unity PRIDE bracelet.

In our newsletter, we are profiling one of these students: Jose Martinez Osorio.

Congratulations to all of our nominated and awarded IB learners:

Ayden Arias

Yasmin Alamrani

Lesli Barahona Flores

Ay'vionna Brady

Cristina Cruz-Lopez

Elijah Griffin Lewis

Dominic Torres

Dulce Herrera Arana

Heela Alkozai

Temesgen Dagnachew

Asra Jami

Rakshya Joshi

Danny Maldonado

Isaiah Reyes

Masi Safi

Noel Sanchez

Jomarion Stubbs

Wais Wasifi

One of the qualities that defines an IB learner is being a Thinker. Thinkers use critical and creative thinking skills to analyze problems, make reasoned decisions, and pursue their passions with curiosity and purpose. Junior Jose Martinez Osorio exemplifies this attribute through his dedication to astronomy and astrophotography.

His fascination with space began when he was very young. He has always been captivated by the stars and the mysteries of the universe. A few years ago, while on a camping trip, he experienced an unforgettable view of the night sky. Inspired by what he saw, he asked his mother if he could get a telescope. She gave him one for his birthday, and he has been exploring and photographing the wonders of space ever since.

Today, one of his favorite tools is his DwarfLab telescope. He appreciates its compact design and advanced light-filtering capabilities, which allow him to capture remarkable images of the night sky even from his home in Manassas. His hobby combines both science and creativity as he carefully plans observations, studies celestial objects, and processes images to reveal details that are often invisible to the naked eye.

Among his favorite subjects to photograph are nebulae, enormous clouds of gas and dust where stars are born. He especially enjoys capturing these objects because they often appear with exceptional clarity in his photographs. While he also finds galaxies and star clusters fascinating, he notes that their greater distances can make them more challenging to photograph in detail.

Some of his recent images include the beautiful Soul Nebula, one of his personal favorites; the Crescent Nebula in the constellation Cygnus, also known as the Swan; the Triangulum Galaxy, a neighboring galaxy not far from Andromeda; and our own Moon. Each photograph reflects hours of patience, technical skill, and perseverance.

Like many IB learners, he is also an Inquirer, constantly seeking to learn more about the universe. Looking ahead, one of his biggest goals is to photograph the Veil Nebula, a target he describes with genuine excitement.

"The Veil Nebula is a dream. It has a really deep orange color and this bluish-green color to it that looks so cool."

His passion for astronomy is not driven by awards or recognition. Instead, he sees it as a lifelong pursuit, something he does simply because it fascinates him and provides personal fulfillment. This commitment to learning for the joy of learning is another hallmark of the IB Learner Profile.

After graduation, he plans to join the Marines. He says he has always looked up to Marines and believes that the experience will challenge him and help him grow as a person. His willingness to embrace new opportunities and push himself reflects the qualities of both a Thinker and a Risk-Taker.

Whether he is studying distant nebulae, capturing breathtaking images of the night sky, or preparing for the next chapter of his life, Jose demonstrates the curiosity, dedication, and reflective mindset that make him an outstanding example of an IB learner. Through his passion for astronomy, he reminds us all to keep looking up, asking questions, and exploring the world beyond what we already know.

September Staff of the Month - Lisa Stafford

Congratulations to Lisa Stafford, our September Staff of the Month! Students consistently recognize Ms. Stafford for her kindness, encouragement, patience, and unwavering commitment to helping them succeed. Nominators shared that she provides extra resources, creates opportunities for students to improve, and continues supporting them even when they doubt themselves. Her ability to combine high expectations with genuine care makes a meaningful difference in the lives of our students. Please join us in celebrating Lisa Stafford for the positive impact she makes each day!

October Staff of the Month - Courtney Lee

Congratulations to Courtney Lee, our October Staff of the Month! Students and colleagues recognize Ms. Lee for creating a welcoming, supportive learning environment and for going above and beyond to help students succeed in mathematics. Her nominations highlight individualized instruction, review resources, after-school support, attendance at student activities, collaboration with her math team, and her willingness to take on additional responsibilities when needed. Most importantly, students describe her as caring, empathetic, patient, and someone they trust. Please join us in celebrating Courtney Lee for her exceptional service to students and our school community!

🦁 A Special Perk for Our Staff of the Month!

As an additional recognition of your outstanding contributions, Lisa Stafford and Courtney Lee, please remember that the LIONS LAIR special parking spots are reserved for you throughout the month of November! 🚗🏆

We hope you enjoy this small token of appreciation as we celebrate the tremendous difference you make each day.

Students interested in pursuing unique academic and career-focused opportunities are encouraged to apply now for Unity Reed High School's specialty programs. Applications are currently open through February 1 in the Avela application system for a variety of programs designed to prepare students for college, careers, and future success.

Available programs include:

• Aviation Maintenance
• Electricity
• Cosmetology
• The International Baccalaureate (IB) Advanced Academics Program
• Public Safety (Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and Firefighting)

To help families learn more about these exciting opportunities, Unity Reed High School will host a Specialty Program Information Night on Thursday, November 12, at 6:30 p.m. in the URHS Auditorium.

Students and parents will have the opportunity to meet program instructors, speak with current students, learn about program expectations and benefits, and receive assistance with the application process. Whether students are interested in advanced academics, skilled trades, aviation, cosmetology, or careers in public safety, this event is an excellent opportunity to explore pathways that align with their interests and future goals. We encourage all interested students and families to attend and begin planning for an exciting future as part of Unity Reed's outstanding specialty programs.

Unity Reed athletes have demonstrated dedication, teamwork, and school pride throughout an exciting fall sports season. Student-athletes competed across a wide range of programs, including football, field hockey, cross country, golf, cheer, girls volleyball, and girls flag football. This year also marked a special milestone as PWCS launched its inaugural boys volleyball season, creating a new opportunity for students to represent the Lion Pride and further expand our athletics program. Through countless hours of practice, competition, and perseverance, our student-athletes have embodied the qualities of commitment, resilience, and sportsmanship that make Unity Reed a strong member of the Cedar Run District and Region 6B.

As we celebrate the accomplishments of our fall teams, we also look forward to the start of an exciting winter sports season. Students interested in competing are encouraged to explore opportunities in boys and girls basketball, wrestling, indoor track, swimming and winter cheer. Athletics offer students an opportunity to build leadership skills, develop lifelong friendships, and strengthen their connection to the school community. Whether competing on the court, mat, track, or in the pool, our winter athletes will continue the tradition of excellence and school spirit that defines Unity Reed High School. We encourage families, students, and staff to come out and support our teams throughout the season as our Lions continue to pursue success both in competition and in the classroom.

For information about schedules, athletic registration, and upcoming events, families can visit the Athletics | Unity Reed High School webpage.

As communities across the nation recognized Constitution Day and reflected on the signing of the U.S. Constitution on September 17, 1787, Unity Reed High School was proud to celebrate one of our own students for an outstanding achievement. Madeleine Guerrero Calle, a senior in Grade 12, was selected as one of the winners in the PWCS America 250 Bookmark Contest, a divisionwide competition that invited students to create original bookmark designs inspired by the theme, "Our Shared Story: 250 Years of Building America Together."

Selected from hundreds of entries submitted by students across Prince William County Public Schools, Madeleine's winning design was recognized for its creativity, artistic excellence, and thoughtful reflection on America's history, values, people, and future. Her accomplishment highlights the talent, innovation, and civic-mindedness that make Unity Reed students exceptional. Madeleine's bookmark will be printed as an official PWCS America 250 bookmark and distributed throughout schools across the division as part of the commemoration of the nation's upcoming 250th anniversary.

Congratulations to Madeleine on this remarkable achievement and for representing the Unity Reed Lion Pride with distinction. We also extend our appreciation to all students who participated in helping tell the story of our nation through their creativity and unique perspectives.

Halloween season brought creativity, community, and plenty of school spirit to Unity Reed High School as students participated in a variety of festive activities throughout the month. One of the most anticipated traditions was the annual Cosmetology Halloween Mannequin Competition, where students showcased their artistic talents by transforming mannequins into imaginative works of art. This year's competition featured three themed categories: Scary Movie, Cartoon Character, and Pumpkin Patch. Students demonstrated impressive technical skills and creativity as they designed intricate hairstyles, makeup looks, costumes, and accessories that brought their chosen themes to life. The competition highlighted the talent, dedication, and hands-on learning opportunities that make the Cosmetology program such a vibrant part of our school community.

Congratulations to this year's winners:

• Scary Movie - Tie for First Place Allison Asencio Asencio and Alexa Barrales
• Cartoon Character - Tie for First Place Allison Patterson and Emely Jimenez
• Pumpkin Patch Abrihana Campos Castro

Unity Reed students also embraced the spirit of service and community engagement through our annual Trunk or Treat event. Student clubs and organizations decorated cars and activity booths, dressed in costumes, and welcomed local elementary school children for an evening of Halloween fun, games, and treats. The event provided a safe and family-friendly opportunity for young students to celebrate while allowing Unity Reed students to serve as role models and community leaders. Extending that commitment to service beyond our campus, members of the SAVE Club also partnered with Innovation Elementary School to help host a Trunk or Treat event for elementary students and families. Through creativity, volunteerism, and school spirit, Unity Reed students once again demonstrated what it means to be active, caring members of the Lion Pride and the broader community.

• November 11: No School (Veteran's Day)
• November 12: Specialty Program Night, 6:30 pm URHS
• November 25-27: Thanksgiving Break
• December 21- January 1: Winter Break
• January 5: Specialty Program Night (Zoom), 6:30 pm
• January 18: No School (MLK Jr Day)
• January 28-29: Teacher Work Days, End of Quarter