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News You Choose

MVHS Weekly Newsletter for Week of October 20th, 2024

News YouChoose MVHS Weekly Newsletter for Week of October 20th, 2024

MVHS Admin Team MVHS Admin Team

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Cary Dimmick - Principal

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Karen Boyd - Asst. Prin. (Gr.12 & A-Ciz)

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John Shaffer - Asst. Prin. (Gr. 11 & Cla-Guy)

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Jacqueline Blair - Asst. Prin. (Gr. 10 & Guz-Mek)

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Ms. Brooks' Mel-Rod Report to Gr. Level Admin

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LaTrease Rich - Asst. Prin. (Gr. 9 & Roe-Z)

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Adrian Williams - Asst. Prin. (Specialized Programs)

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Rashida Williams - Dir. of Student Services

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Brian Murphy - Dir. of Student Activities

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John Uccellini - Asst. Dir. of Student Activities

Resources Resources

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MVHS Website

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MVHS Parent Handbook

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MVHS Staff Directory

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2024-25 SY Calendar

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MVHS Bell Schedule

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Return Period Schedule

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MVHS Academic Programs Info

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IB Diploma Programme Info

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IB Career-Related Programme Info

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MVHS Activities Calendar

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MVHS Athletic Coaches Contact Information

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MVHS Theatre Arts Information

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Report Sexual Harassment or Dscrimination

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Report Discrimination, Harassment or Concerning Behaviors

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Family Resources

LGBTQIA+ Month LGBTQIA+ Month

October 2024 October 2024

October is LGBTQIA+ History Month, an annual month-long observance of LGBTQIA+ history and related civil rights movements. LGBTQIA+ History Month was founded in 1994 by Missouri high-school history teacher Rodney Wilson. LGBTQIA+ History Month provides role models, builds community, and represents a civil rights statement about the contributions of the LGBTQIA+ community.


"FCPS recognizes October as LGBTQIA+ History Month. Students deserve meaningful, sustained opportunities to learn about the experiences and contributions of LGBTQIA+ community members and the celebration of LGBTQIA+ History Month is an opportunity to honor these diverse and important stories (Fairfax County Public Schools)."

Italian American Heritage Month Italian American Heritage Month

October 2024 October 2024

October is Italian-American Heritage and Culture Month, which is celebrated by proclamation of the President and Congress in the United States, to honor the achievements and contributions of Italian immigrants and their descendants living in the United States, particularly in the arts, science, and culture. This proclamation was led by the Italian senator Tate Downs. Events are held throughout the month to celebrate and educate the public about Italian-American history and culture.

Disability History and Awareness Month Disability History and Awareness Month

October 2024 October 2024

"October is Disability History and Awareness Month, where we celebrate the invaluable contributions of people with disabilities. Disability History Awareness Month promotes respect, acceptance, and inclusion of individuals with disabilities while highlighting their significant impact on society. Recognizing disability history inspires pride among students with disabilities, reduces harassment and bullying, and fosters a more inclusive school environment."


"FCPS recognizes October as Disability History and Awareness Month. Students deserve meaningful, sustained opportunities to learn about the experiences and contributions of individuals with disabilities and the celebration of Disability History and Awareness Month is an opportunity to honor these diverse and important stories (Fairfax County Public Schools)."

** NEW ANNOUNCEMENTS ** ** NEW ANNOUNCEMENTS **

Highlights for Next Week: Highlights for Next Week:

Week of October 20th to 26th

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** Homecoming Tickets Being Sold All Week - in cafeteria hallway during lunch


Monday:

  • Immunization Clinic (8a to 4p) in MVHS Activities Office


Wednesday:

  • Fall Orchestra Concert (7p in Little Theatre)

Thursday:


  • College Fair - D100 (8a to 3P)

Friday:


  • Pep Rally (flipped schedule)
  • College Fair - D100 (8a to 3P)
  • Booster Club "Chili Cook Off" Homecoming Tailgate (see info below)
  • Football Game v. Annandale (HoCo Game) - 7:00 pm


Saturday:

  • Homecoming Dance (7p to 11p in Field House).
    • MUST have a HoCo Ticket to get in.

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IMPORTANT Upcoming Revision to Major Time and Return Period Schedule


  • October 21st – extend Major Time for FCPS SEL Screener (9:45 am to 10:30 am)
  • October 23rd – Return Period 2 (moved from Friday for Pep Rally Schedule)
  • October 25th - Return Period 1 (Pep Rally Schedule to culminate Homecoming Week)
  • October 29th – extend Major Time for FCPS Gr. 9 SOS (9:45 am to 10:00 am)
  • December 3rd – extend Major Time for FCPS Gr. 11 SOS (10:45 am to 11:09 am)

  • HERE is the Return Period Schedule to reflect the changes above.

Extracurricular Activities This Week Extracurricular Activities This Week

Below is the schedule of MVHS Extracurricular Activities for this week.


For a more comprehensive list of activities for the entire school year, click HERE.

Attendance "Tips of the Week" Attendance "Tips of the Week"

Just a few missed days here and there, even if they’re excused absences, can add up to too much lost learning time and put your child behind in school. This is as true in kindergarten as it is in high school.


HOW CAN YOU HELP YOUR CHILD OR TEEN HAVE GOOD ATTENDANCE?


• Talk about the importance of showing up to school every day, make that the expectation.


• Help your child maintain daily routines, such as finishing homework and getting a good night’s sleep.


• Try not to schedule dental and medical appointments during the school day.


• Don’t let your child stay home unless truly sick. Complaints of headaches or stomach aches may be signs of anxiety.



Did you also know...


• Ask for help from school officials, afterschool programs, other parents or community agencies if you’re having trouble getting your child to school


• Looking ahead to the holiday season, if missing school is unavoidable, talk to your children’s teachers in advance to create a plan for making up missed work. But remember, a homework packet cannot make up for the interaction and learning that goes on in the classroom.



And as a reminder...



If your child needs to miss school because of an illness or appointment, you must report the absence to the school.


You may submit information via MountVernonHigh.Attendance@fcps.edu or call us at 703-619-3131. Parents/Caregivers can also submit excused absences in ParentVue.


We appreciate your collaboration in scheduling appointments outside of school hours, when possible.

FREE Immunizations at MVHS FREE Immunizations at MVHS

Mon, Oct. 21st Mon, Oct. 21st

Fill Out Consent Form Below Fill Out Consent Form Below

We have a number of students who still need the required immunizations to attend Fairfax County Public Schools.


The Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD) is providing FREE immunizations to MVHS students on Monday, October 21, 2024 at MVHS.


To allow for your child to receive the FREE immunization, you can simply fill out the consent form via the QR below.


Information is also available in the School Site Immunization Clinic Guidance for Schools - Fall 2024 and the FCHD Immunization Clinic Schedule (Fall 2024) for reference. Note: school team will not have individual DocuSign links. Instead, links will be organized the week in which the clinic is scheduled to occur.

Welcome Ms. Stephanie Payne Welcome Ms. Stephanie Payne

New MVHS Assistant Principal New MVHS Assistant Principal

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We want to welcome Ms. Stephanie Payne, currently an Assistant Principal at Fort Belvoir Upper School in the MVHS Pyramid, as our new Assistant Principal.


Ms. Payne is an accomplished and versatile leader who has consistently demonstrated the ability to lead effectively in various educational contexts. Her dedication to cultivating inclusive and collaborative learning environments aligns seamlessly with the culture of Mount Vernon High School. Ms. Payne is committed to fostering social and emotional development, ensuring that all students receive the support they need to thrive academically and personally. Throughout her career, she has leveraged effective communication strategies to drive positive change and promote academic success. Ms. Payne specializes in creating supportive environments that prioritizes the growth and well-being of both staff and students, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and excellence. Ms. Payne has the innate ability to establish and maintain strong relationships with all school stakeholders and believes in the power of collaboration and partnership in achieving our collective goals.


Ms. Payne is eager to contribute to the collaborative spirit at Mount Vernon High School and is committed to working closely with all members of the school community to ensure that every student receives the support they need to learn and flourish.


Ms. Payne will be at MVHS on Monday, October 28, 2024.

Welcome Mr. Alvin Neveaux Welcome Mr. Alvin Neveaux

New MVHS MJROTC Instructor New MVHS MJROTC Instructor

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We want to welcome Mr. Alvin Neveaux as the new MJROTC instructor at MVHS.


Mr. Neveaux most recently served as the Director and Deputy Director of Personnel Units, consisting of over 150-300 administrative personnel, supporting over 3000 Marines. Mr. Neveaux has also led several Non-Commissioned Officers (NCO) Leadership and Development Courses, as well as a variety of national and international units while on active duty in the Marine Corps to include Embassy/Support Detachments.


Mr. Neveaux has instructional experience in teaching financial literacy as a Marine Corps Command Financial Officer, as well as teaching and mentoring Real Estate investors, 21 years of on-the-job teaching and mentoring as a Marine leader, and a former Marine Corps Institution Course writer.

Welcome Ms. Brianne Baxa Welcome Ms. Brianne Baxa

New MVHS IB Physics Teacher New MVHS IB Physics Teacher

We want to welcome Ms. Brianne Baxa as the new IB Physics teacher at MVHS.


Ms. Baxa is an experienced instructor with a strong Physics background, working most recently at the US Coast Guard Academy and for a private contractor supporting the US Coast Guard. Ms. Baxa has taught high school physics as well, utilizing student performance data to determine learning objectives, as well as adapt her instruction to meet the needs of all learners, which included peer instruction, group work, labs and demonstrations to provide equity and excellence to the students. Ms. Baxa has a number of previous students, who thru her inspiration, pursued careers in physics and engineering.

CONGRATS Cheer Team! CONGRATS Cheer Team!

5th Place Finish @ District Finals 5th Place Finish @ District Finals

Coach Erique Coach of Year! Coach Erique Coach of Year!

Mariah White 1st Team All-District! Mariah White 1st Team All-District!

Congratulations to our Varsity Cheer Team that placed 5th this past week at the District Finals. This qualifies our team to advance to the Regionals again on October 29th!


Congratulations to sophomore Mariah White, who made 1st team all-district once again and will be considered for regional honors!


Additional Congratulations go out to junior captain Lily Grimsley, who made 2nd team all-district against a VERY tough group.


And a huge congratulations to Coach Courtney Erique - who was named Coach of the Year for the National District!

Awesome Choral Performance! Awesome Choral Performance!

Congratulations to our amazing Advanced Choir on their awesome performance this past week at the combined Choral Concert at West Potomac HS. We appreciate Ms. Huber's leadership & are blessed to have such incredibly talented singers at MVHS!

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Advanced Choir Ready to go!

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WPHS & MVHS Combined Tenors & Basses

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MVHS Varsity Singers

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MVHS Varsity Sopranos & Altos

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WPHS & MVHS Combined Advanced Choirs

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Combined Choirs

Congrats to our MVHS E-Sports Team! Congrats to our MVHS E-Sports Team!

Congrats to our Majors E-Sports team who won ALL FOUR of their events this week!


  • League of Legends beat Louisa County HS 2-0 placing them 16th in VHSL
  • Smash Bros beat Green Run HS 3-1 placing them 65th in the State
  • Rocket League beat Louisa County HS 3-0 placing them 28th in the State
  • Mario Kart beat Fluvanna County HS 2-0 placing them 6th in the VHSL Region!

Check out our livestream on http://YouTube.com/MVHS_eSports and follow us on Instagram @mvhsesportsva


You can check out three of our Rocket League Majors scoring at the following link:

https://www.youtube.com/live/ZRDqqU_wDWk?si=nvqZFN58xiNczaJu&t=1607.


  • Abraham Garcia Cruz scoring at 21:45 mark,
  • Kamal Gaal scoring at 26:47 mark, and
  • at 29:22 watch Kamal assisting a goal by Brody Rhoads.

Homecoming Spirit Week Homecoming Spirit Week

October 21st to 26th October 21st to 26th

Homecoming Dance Homecoming Dance

Sat; Oct 26th - 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm Sat; Oct 26th - 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm

Ticket Pricing Below - No Tix Sold at Door! Ticket Pricing Below - No Tix Sold at Door!

The annual Mount Vernon HS Homecoming Dance will be held on Saturday, October 26, 2024 from 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm in the MVHS Fieldhouse.


  • Tickets go on sale on Monday, October 21st at an early bird price of $20.00.
  • Tickets will also be sold from Tuesday, October 22nd thru Thursday, October 24th tickets for $25.00.
  • Last Chance tickets will be sold on Friday, October 25th for $30.00.
  • No tickets will be sold at the door. No exceptions.

  • Students should be dropped off at Door #6 for entry (the "kiss and ride" parking lot)


  • No students will be permitted entry to the dance after 9:45 pm. Please plan accordingly.
  • No refund for students that cannot arrive before the 9:45 pm cut-off.


  • Parents & Caregivers - ALL students should be promptly picked up at 11:00 pm. Please plan accordingly.


Important items to note:


  • The Mount Vernon HS Homecoming Dance is for MVHS students and pre-approved guests only.

  • Guest Forms are found in your sub-schools.

  • No elementary or middle school-aged students are permitted.

  • MVHS Staff reserve the right to ask for appropriate identification as needed.

  • Any guest that is not pre-approved will not be permitted entrance to the dance. No exceptions.

  • Students will be expected to continue to show the positive school spirit and energy we see during the school day.

  • Students are expected to follow all the rules outlined in the FCPS Students Rights and Responsibilities.

  • Students who are not demonstrating positive behaviors may be asked to leave the dance (and the ticket price will not be refunded).

MVHS Pyramid Choir Concert MVHS Pyramid Choir Concert

Thurs, Nov 7th - 7:00 pm @ MVHS Thurs, Nov 7th - 7:00 pm @ MVHS

The Mount Vernon Pyramid elementary, middle, and high school choirs are presenting the annual Mount Vernon Pyramid Choir concert on Thursday, November 7, at 7:00pm in the MVHS Field House.


At this performance you will hear singers from all six pyramid elementary schools, Whitman Middle School, and Mount Vernon High School - as well as a special performance by the Mount Vernon 6th Grade Honor Choir.


We are so excited to share music with the community, and we hope to see you there. Thank you for your support of our music programs!

Annual MVHS Field of Flags Annual MVHS Field of Flags

Veterans Day Celebration Veterans Day Celebration

Boys VB Game v. Annandale Boys VB Game v. Annandale

Oct 22nd at 6:00 pm Oct 22nd at 6:00 pm

Game Location Moved to MVHS Game Location Moved to MVHS

Orchestra Performance Orchestra Performance

Wed; Oct 23rd - 7:00 pm in Little Theatre Wed; Oct 23rd - 7:00 pm in Little Theatre

Boosters "Chili Cook Off" HoCo Tailgate Boosters "Chili Cook Off" HoCo Tailgate

Fri; Oct 25th from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm Fri; Oct 25th from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm

MVHS Driver's Ed Parking Lot MVHS Driver's Ed Parking Lot

FREE Games. Food, Face Painting, Trunk or Treat, etc. FREE Games. Food, Face Painting, Trunk or Treat, etc.

Class of 2026 Mulch Sale Class of 2026 Mulch Sale

Moved to Sat, Nov 2nd Moved to Sat, Nov 2nd

The Class of 2026 Mulch Sale has been moved to November 2nd, 2024 (6:00 am to 12:00 pm in Driver's Ed Parking Lot).


Pre-Sales will begin on Monday, October 14th.


NOTE: A Limited number of bags will be available the day of the sale.


IMPORTANT: We are in need of drivers, to transport the mulch as well as a few other things, so if you are able to volunteer, please visit: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080E44AEAD2CA1F85-52387441-class#/

High School Career Forum High School Career Forum

Sat, Oct. 26th - 12p to 2p Sat, Oct. 26th - 12p to 2p

Grades 9-12 Grades 9-12

Lorton Community Center Lorton Community Center

16th Annual MVHS Cares 16th Annual MVHS Cares

Gobblepalooza Turkey Trot & Wellness Walk Gobblepalooza Turkey Trot & Wellness Walk

Sat, Nov. 23rd - 8:15 am Sat, Nov. 23rd - 8:15 am

2025 Virginia Summer Residential Governor’s School for 2025 Virginia Summer Residential Governor’s School for

Academics and Visual and Performing Arts Academics and Visual and Performing Arts

10th and 11th Graders Can Apply 10th and 11th Graders Can Apply

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2025 Virginia Summer Residential Governor’s School (SRGS)

The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) offers the opportunity for 10th and 11th grade students to apply to attend summer residential Governor’s schools in Academics and Visual and Performing Arts (VPA). Students who are accepted into one of the programs will live in residence halls in one of the state colleges in VA for four weeks in the June - late July timeframe. To learn more about SRGS opportunities and the application process, visit the VDOE website.


To be considered for an academic or VPA Governor’s school, students must complete the steps below:


1. Complete the interest form linked below for either Academics or VPA. The form is a required part of the application process and is due November 6th. No late entries will be accepted. When completing the form, enter a personal email address and do NOT use an fcpsschools.net email address. VDOE cannot send communications to the fcpsschools.net domain.



  • · Academic Interest form
  • · Visual and Performing Arts Interest form


2. Attend our school interest meeting which will take place on Tuesday, October 29th during Major Time. The meeting will begin at 10:30am in the library. Attendance at the meeting is optional but strongly encouraged.


3. Complete the application for the specific program you wish to apply to and return to your school counselor who is supervising the Governor’s School application process.


  • · Academic applications are due to the school on December 13, 2024.
  • · VPA applications are due to the school on January 31, 2025.

Personal Project Donation Supply Closet Personal Project Donation Supply Closet

Supplies Needed for IB MYP Projects Supplies Needed for IB MYP Projects

Do you have any new or gently used hobby items lying around your home? Do you have any items or materials you no longer need in your home that are just occupying space? Please consider donating them to our English 10 team! Every year, our English 10 students complete the IB MYP Personal Project. Often, our students need supplies to complete the project, and the English 10 team would like to create a supply closet that can be used to offer materials to students in need of extra support.


Our students often complete projects in the following categories: Baking, Cooking, Cosmetology, Crafting, Creative Writing, Culture, Design, Family, Games, Health, Invention, Music, Performing Arts, Sports, Technology, and Visual Arts.


If you would like to donate items that might help students complete their projects - i.e. knitting needles, fabric, cameras, paint, baking pans, sports equipment, gardening supplies, musical instruments, markers, etc. - please contact Kimberly Dooley in Library Study B.

Additional Clinic Date on October 28 for Additional Clinic Date on October 28 for

Free Immunizations for All FCPS Students Free Immunizations for All FCPS Students

Additional Clinic Date on October 28 for Free Immunizations for All FCPS Students


Safeway Pharmacy will be hosting an additional clinic date where they 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 additional immunization clinic date is being held at Frost Middle School on Monday, October 28th from 3:00 p.m. to 7 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 19.


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.

Transportation services are also available. Please visit our Immunization Resources webpage for details.


Parents may learn more about this Safeway Pharmacy and other immunization resources and FCPS school-required immunizations

Special Thanks to Wegman's Special Thanks to Wegman's

A special thanks to Wegman's, who donated a $500 gift card to our SGA to help sponsor our Homecoming Dance.

Youth Ambassadors Needed Youth Ambassadors Needed

Students in Grades 10-12 Students in Grades 10-12

Fairfax County Dept. of Health Fairfax County Dept. of Health

The Fairfax County Department of Health is seeking high school-aged Youth Ambassadors to be trained in either (a) High School Opioid Reduction or (b) Young Adult Mental Health.


FREE Evening and Weekend classes for high school students (10th through 12th graders) focusing on Teen Mental Health, and Drug Addition Prevention to be held at the Fairfax County Government Center, beginning on October 28th.


Evening (Mental Health) classes will run approximately 10-to-12 weeks, on Monday through Thursday from 6:00 PM to 7:00PM. Our Weekend (Drug Addiction) course will last approximately 6 weeks and take place on Saturdays from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM.


Each program graduate will receive a certification of completion from both Morehouse and GMU, along with, a $500 gift card. In addition, those students who complete the Mental Health curriculum will also receive a FREE Chrome laptop. NOTE: the computer option is, unfortunately, not available for our Drug Addiction students, at this time.


Applications are live now for those students who are interested in taking these courses at the following link: Public Health Youth Ambassador Program | Health (fairfaxcounty.gov).


Our application completion period closes on October 22nd at 4:30 PM (EST).

New "BE" Club at MVHS New "BE" Club at MVHS

Students - do you want to build your character, self-esteem, and maybe increase your academic performance - all while having fun and enjoying food & conversation with other students just like you?


Ms. Watson will be starting up a "BE" Club next Thursday, October 17th - after school in room #H106.


The "BE" club was founded in 2000 by Ms. Watson, and has helped members celebrate academic, build confidence & self-esteem, and participate in fun community events.


We hope that the "BE" Club will be a place for you!

MVHS Catering Services MVHS Catering Services

We can cater your next event! We can cater your next event!

Chef Ibrahim and our amazing culinary arts students are able to cater your next event!


All proceeds go to expanding our Culinary Arts Program at MVHS.


Please see the flyers below - especially the upcoming opportunity for the Thanksgiving holiday.

** College & Career Center News ** ** College & Career Center News **

Colleges Visiting MHVS Colleges Visiting MHVS

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Mount Vernon High School will be having the following college & university reps visiting next week. Students, please sign up for any college visits that you are interested in attending.


Please see Mrs. Juba in the College in Career Center or email her at cmjuba@fcps.edu if you have any questions or need any assistance and she will be happy to help you.



Colleges Visiting MVHS


Please see the schedule for college and university visits below.


Students, please see Ms. Juba in the College and Career Center (or email her at cmjuba@fcps.edu) to schedule a visit with these colleges & universities. Also, please email Ms. Juba at cmjuba@fcps.edu with any questions.




Military Recruiters during student lunch period:

Students will be able to talk with military recruiters during their lunch periods on the following days and times:

Marines:

  • SGT Pennington every 2nd Wednesday from September 11, 2024 to May 14, 2025

Navy:

  • Petty Officer Wallace every 2nd Thursday from September 12, 2024 to May 15, 2025




ASVAB dates


The ASVAB is used to help identify a person's strengths and find a career that matches them. It's also used to predict a person's future academic and occupational success in the military. If you have any questions, please contact Mrs. Juba cmjuba@fcps.edu and she will be happy to help you.


  • February 19, 2025
  • March 25, 2025




·Financial Aid

The FASFA forms will be available on December 1, 2024. Our Financial Aid Champion from College Access Fairfax Katrina Rowsey will be at Mount Vernon High School on the following days during major time to assist you.


  • October 31, 2024
  • November 7, 2024
  • November 12, 2024
  • November 18, 2024
  • December 3, 2024
  • December 9, 2024
  • December 17, 2024·


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Scholarships

This is a link about how to search for scholarships in Naviance. If you have any questions, please contact Mrs. Juba cmjuba@fcps.edu and she will be happy to help you.


Naviance Student – Scholarships and Enrichment Programs | Fairfax County Public Schools (fcps.edu)



Fairfax County Public Schools Look to the Future Week


College Fair @ GMU Eagle Bank Arena

October 20th from 4:00 pm to 6:30 pm

250+ colleges attending


Post Secondary 2 Night Event

October 21st & 22nd, 2024 – 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm

VIRTUAL Sessions


Virginia College Application Week (VCAW)

College Fair Thursday October 24, 2024

Application Assistance

Scholarship Search/Essay

Financial Aid 101

Next Steps after College Apps




WIOA Youth Program- Federal Grant Program


The WIOA Youth Program- Federal Grant Program helps youth that are between the ages of 17-24 https://vcwnorthern.com/wioayouth/ and have employment barriers.


Students that meet with qualifications for the WIOA Youth program and are out of school can be eligible for $5,000 towards employment trainings and credentials.

Please see our College and Career Counselor Ms. Juba in the College and Career Center for more information.

Career Development Opportunities with the WIOA Youth Program are:

  • Job Preparation Skills
  • Apprenticeship Opportunities
  • Interview Coaching
  • Training Opportunities
  • Resume Building


Educational Support with the WIOA Youth Program include:

  • College or Vocational School Exploration
  • Tutorial Assistance
  • GED & High School Completion Options
  • Short-Term Training Opportunities

College & University Visits College & University Visits

October Visits October Visits

November & December Visits November & December Visits

Scholarship Deadlines Extended Scholarship Deadlines Extended

This is friendly reminder about the following scholarship opportunities. I had sent the previous email out towards the end of September. I am extending the Harry Byrd Leadership Award to extended to October 30th.



  • Harry F. Byrd, Jr. Leadership Award ($25,000) due by Friday, October 11- extended to October 30th

  • UVA Jefferson Scholarship due by Friday, October 30, 2024

  • UVA Walentas Scholars Programs due by Friday, October 30, 2024

  • United States Senate Youth Program ($10,000 and trip to Washington, DC)
    • Students can apply to the United States Senate Youth Program directly. If the program receives more than three applications, they will contact me and then the Scholarship Committee will be convened at Mount Vernon High School and the scholarship committee will select the three applicants to move forward in the competition.


Please see Ms. Juba with any questions.

2024 MVHS Virginia College Application Week 2024 MVHS Virginia College Application Week

October 21 to 25, 2024 October 21 to 25, 2024

2024 MVHS Virginia College Application Week

Virginia College Application Week (VCAW) is here. Seniors from across the Commonwealth of Virginia will be applying to colleges next week October 21st - 25th, 2024 for FREE. The Student Services Team at Mount Vernon has worked to give our students the opportunity to also attend a college and military information fair, receive support with their college applications, and participate in on-site admissions. Students can register for individual college information sessions through Naviance.


Seniors can contact their College and Career Specialist or their school counselor, October 21st -25th to receive the fee waiver code.


See below for a quick overview of the College and Career Week Programs planned here at Mount Vernon. Unless noted all sessions are open to all grades, times are listed and most sessions will take place in the College and Career Center. Teachers may sign up to bring their classes to the college, career and military fair which will be held on October 24th from 11:14 am to1:25 pm, individual students may also come with a pass or during their lunch period.


MVHS College and Career Week at a Glance

Monday 10/21

Tuesday 10/22

Wednesday 10/23

Thursday 10/24

Friday 10/25

Scholarship Website Scholarship Website

A new website to assist with the marketing and communication about scholarships has been developed.


In addition to Naviance being the database for scholarships, there is now an FCPS public webpage that includes scholarships available to all FCPS students: https://www.fcps.edu/scholarships-fcps-students.

College Fair and "Look to the Future" Events College Fair and "Look to the Future" Events

October 20th, 21st and 22nd October 20th, 21st and 22nd

Fairfax County Public Schools high school students and their families are encouraged to participate in the following events:


  1. The 2024 College Fair will be held on Sunday, October 20, 2024, at George Mason University’s Eagle Bank Arena from 4:00 - 6:30 pm. Approximately 220 colleges and universities will be represented, including two and four-year colleges and US Service Academies.

  1. The Two-Night Postsecondary Virtual Event will be held on Monday, October 21, and Tuesday, October 22, 2024, from 5:00 - 8:00 pm.


Please visit this website to register for these events, both will help students be better prepared for the next chapter of their educational journey.

** ONE LAST REMINDER ** ** ONE LAST REMINDER **

Sign Up for SIS ParentVue Sign Up for SIS ParentVue

SIS ParentVUE: Everything You Can Do Through SIS ParentVUE


Parents and care-givers -


SIS ParentVUE is the info-central for all the MVHS and FCPS information you will need.


Track your student's attendance, view grades, get information from the school, and much more!


Log in to your SIS ParentVUE account to find forms and make updates.


Please call the school at 703-619-3100 if you need your Activation Code for SIS ParentVUE.

Update Contact Information in SIS ParentVUE Update Contact Information in SIS ParentVUE

Be among the first to know about weather closings, bus delays, and other critical communications from your school and FCPS by providing your cell phone number and email in SIS ParentVUE.


To update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE, click the “Online Packets” tab in the upper right of the screen, then click the “Online Verification/Update” icon.


Parents/caregivers who do not have a SIS ParentVUE account should print and complete the Emergency Care Information Form (PDF) and submit it to their child’s school.

Reporting Student Absences Reporting Student Absences

Parents can submit daylong absences through SIS ParentVUE.


Log in and click “Report Absence.”


Note: Partial day absences and changes of transportation should still be reported directly to the school front office.


Parents/caregivers can also call the school at 703-619-3100 to report absences.

Complete Permission Forms Complete Permission Forms

Families can now easily give permission for their children to access a variety of school resources through the Parent Digital Consent system.


This online tool can be accessed using your SIS ParentVUE account.


Parents can easily opt their child in or out of resources including online educational tools, school counseling services, and tutoring services. They can also change how student information is managed.


Visit the Parent Digital Consent webpage to access the system. Watch this video to see how to use the tool.

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** On-Going Reminders ** ** On-Going Reminders **

FCPS Cellphone Policy FCPS Cellphone Policy

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NO Cell Phone Use During Class

As you may have seen, FCPS rolled out a new Cellphone Policy, with specific expectations for all students. To summarize the high school (grades 9-12) expectations:


  • Phones must be silenced and put away during all instructional periods.

  • Cell phones may be used on campus before the first bell, after the last bell, during passing periods, and lunches.

  • Phone accessories are also to be silenced and away when phone use is prohibited. Smart watches that serve a dual purpose may be worn, but the phone features (texting, Internet viewing, and calls) are to be off when phone use is prohibited.

  • Phones can be stored in a locker or backpack during the day. Students are prohibited from using phones, tablets, and other mobile devices in restrooms and locker rooms, unless there is a medical necessity or emergency.

  • With the approval of the principal or their designee, teachers may allow usage of cell phones for instructional activities where they are the most appropriate tool; however, one-to-one FCPS devices should meet most needs.

  • If your student needs access to their phone for medical accommodations, it is important to note that the current cell phone policy and guidelines have not changed. Therefore, students who currently require access to a cell phone or another personally owned device for medical reasons, or an accommodation to access the curriculum and make progress to their individualized goals, will continue to have such access.


Violation Continuum:
  • 1st Violation: Student receives verbal warning (documented infraction)
  • 2nd Violation: Parent Notification of 2nd violation (documented 2nd infraction)
  • 3rd Violation: Student is referred to administrator (documented 3rd infraction).
  • 4th Violation: Student will receive disciplinary action - which will be confiscation of the device by the administrator. Student will receive the phone back at the end of the school day.
  • 5th Violation: Parent/Caregiver and student will meet with the administrator for intervention plan.


Please see the FCPS Cellphone Expectations by Grade HERE.

MVHS has a CLOSED Lunch MVHS has a CLOSED Lunch

Student are NOT Permitted to Leave Campus Student are NOT Permitted to Leave Campus

MVHS Families -


Just a reminder that Mount Vernon High School has a CLOSED lunch. This means that students are NOT permitted to leave campus to get food at any of the surrounding restaurants or convenience stores.


Unfortunately, we are seeing a number of students who have left campus and have attempted to return to the school building with externally bought food.


Regrettably, due to several instances of where food and beverages were found to have illicit substances in them, we WILL NOT permit externally bought food to be brought into the school from students who have left campus without permission.


In addition, food will also not be permitted to be delivered to students from delivery services, including Uber Eats, Grub Hub, or by individual restaurant delivery services.


ALL external food found on students who have left campus, and is attempting to return to school, will be confiscated. Note, MVHS will not be responsible for food that are confiscated.


Thanks for your understanding in helping us keep all our students safe every day.

Daily Info on Bus Routes Daily Info on Bus Routes

Thank you for your patience as we all get used to new routines this school year. We appreciate our families following Kiss and Ride procedures and being patient while waiting for your children’s buses.


If a student’s bus is delayed, parents may access the Bus Delay Notification System or use the Here Comes the Bus mobile app to receive the delayed bus report.


Email messages will be sent to announce significant bus delays.


Contact the Transportation Office at 703-446-2150 with any additional questions. For any concerns after 5:30 p.m., contact Safety and Security at 571-423-2000.


To make sure you receive email messages about bus delays, update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE.

Students - No Parking Without a MV Permit Students - No Parking Without a MV Permit

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Regrettably, we are seeing a rapidly growing increase in students illegally parking on campus during the school day. These student vehicles are being parking in reserved staff spaces & visitor parking.

This is a safety issue and needs to stop immediately.

Students - Please see the main office if you would like to purchase a parking pass.

REMINDER: All parking passes are for a semester only. Anyone wishing to have a semester 2 parking pass will need to purchase one at the end of January 2025.

Optional FREE Parking: Students may also park along (a) Old Mount Vernon Road, (b) Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, and (c) Maryland Street.


Students MAY NOT park at the Rec Center or in community areas that block private driveways.

Breakfast and Lunch Breakfast and Lunch

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The MVHS cafeteria will offer breakfast and lunch daily. If your student plans on purchasing food through the cafeteria, please be sure to load money on their meal account or bring cash.


Breakfast:

  • Students, grades K-12—$1.75
  • Reduced-price breakfast for qualifying students – no charge
  • Adults or 2nd student meal—$2.75

Lunch:

  • Secondary and high school —$3.50
  • Reduced-price lunch for qualifying students – no charge
  • Adults or 2nd student meal —$4.75

More information on FCPS Food Services (including payment options for meal accounts, daily menus, free and reduced meal programs, etc.) can be reviewed on the FCPS website.


Free and Reduced Meals Information


Applications for Free and Reduced Meal Service (FRM) have been updated for the new school year. Click the following to access the updated online application. (Free and Reduced Meal Service Online Application)

  • FRM eligibility carryover from the SY 23-24 is valid for the first thirty (30) school days.
  • Households will be required to submit a new application by October 1, 2024.
  • Apply on the Free and Reduced-Price Meals webpage.


Early Release Days


In the event of a 3-hour early release, lunch service will still be available between 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. FNS proposes to offer grab-and-go meals for students, allowing them to go through the serving lines, choose items, and put them in provided meal bags. Both cold and hot meal options will be available. Students are still required to pick up complete reimbursable meals; otherwise, à la carte charges will be applied. All meals provided by FNS must be consumed on-site.


School Nutrition Accounts, PINs, Prepayments, & MySchoolBucks


FNS will be emailing student PINs via e-Notify and in advance of the first day of school. MySchoolBucks should be promoted and is now available for account prepayments. State legislation and the FCPS Meal Charge Policy direct all school nutrition account negative balance communication to parents/caregivers. Additionally, students may not be denied a breakfast or lunch meal for any reason. FNS will work with school administrators to communicate low/negative account balances.


Menus


School menus offer a variety of entrees, fruits, and vegetables that meet or exceed USDA guidelines, including nutrient standards. Menus, allergens, and nutrition information are all available online at LINQ Connect. School menus will be published monthly, starting one week before the first day of school. FNS makes every effort to offer items as listed on the planned menu. Unanticipated substitutions are published on LINQ Connect whenever possible.

No-Cost Mental Health Teletherapy No-Cost Mental Health Teletherapy

for All High School Students for All High School Students

Is your high schooler experiencing anxiety, behavior changes, or challenges with peer and family relationships?


If so, parents/caregivers can refer their children for weekly therapy with a licensed therapist through Hazel Health.


Visit the Teletherapy webpage for more information on how to access this service.

Fentanyl Awareness Info Fentanyl Awareness Info

Varsity Tutors Provides Varsity Tutors Provides

On-Demand Support at No Cost On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning.


Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes, on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring, essay editing, and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests.


Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

FCPS & MVHS INFORMATION FCPS & MVHS INFORMATION

Mount Vernon HS School Profile Mount Vernon HS School Profile

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Mount Vernon High School is a vibrant educational environment characterized by commitment to excellence. Located less than a mile from George Washington's home, Mount Vernon High School is steeped in tradition. Founded in 1939, its long history of excellence is evident in its current students, faculty, and staff. Mount Vernon High School has a world-class curriculum. Students choose from a wide range of course offerings, including International Baccalaureate (IB) courses. The International Baccalaureate Program is a rigorous advanced-level program that is an option for students in their final two years of high school. Individual needs are accommodated through three special education programs, an English for speakers of other languages (ESOL) program, and advanced or accelerated courses in all disciplines. At Mount Vernon High School, technology enhances and adds dimension to instruction in all curricular areas.


In addition to outstanding academic programs, Mount Vernon High School offers students a broad range of extra-curricular and co-curricular activities designed to meet and extend the broad range of student interests. Fine and performing arts students and athletic teams have received numerous awards and recognition. Contributing to Mount Vernon High School's unique character and strength is its diversity. More than 50 countries and 30 languages are represented in its student population. This diversity is enjoyed and celebrated daily, as well as through a series of cultural events that bring students, parents, and faculty together and demonstrate cooperative living in a multicultural world. Mount Vernon High School is further enriched by the support of an active community.


At Mount Vernon High School, we value and believe members within our community should be:

  • Supportive,
  • Passionate,
  • Responsible,
  • Looking for Continuous Growth, &
  • Culturally Responsive


We know that our Majors achieve and thrive together with purpose and pride.



Please click HERE for more School Profile Information

FCPS Strategic Plan FCPS Strategic Plan

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Our Commitment to Excellence, Equity, & Opportunity for Each & Every Student

As we begin a new school year, Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid reminds us of the goals of FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan, , which guides us in delivering excellence, equity, and opportunity for each and every one of our students.



  • Watch Dr. Reid’s message.



Please visit the FCPS Webpage for all FCPS-related Information

Special Thanks to Our MVHS Photographer Special Thanks to Our MVHS Photographer

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Howard "Chip" Hall - MVHS Volunteer Photographer

A special THANK YOU to Howard "Chip" Hall, a 30-year Marine Corps Veteran - and MV Community Member - who is generously volunteering his time to capture our Majors in action.


Please visit Chip's website HERE for more amazing pics!

News You Choose Newsletter Archives News You Choose Newsletter Archives

October 2024


HERE is the News You Choose for October 20, 2024

HERE is the News You Choose for October 13, 2024

HERE is the News You Choose for October 6, 2024


September 2024


HERE is the News You Choose for September 29, 2024

HERE is the News You Choose for September 22, 2024

HERE is the News You Choose for September 15, 2024

HERE is the News You Choose for September 8, 2024

HERE is the News You Choose for September 1, 2024

Cary Dimmick
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