News You Choose
Family Newsletter - Week of May 31st
2025-26 SY Calendar
25-26 MVHS Bell Schedules
Major Time Schedule
** June is Caribbean Heritage Month **
"In June 2005, the House of Representatives unanimously adopted H. Con. Res. 71, sponsored by Congresswoman Barbara Lee, recognizing the significance of Caribbean people and their descendants in the history and culture of the United States. On February 14, 2006, the resolution similarly passed the Senate, culminating a two-year, bipartisan and bicameral effort. The Proclamation was issued by President George W. Bush on June 6, 2006" (Caribbeanmonth).
**June is LGBTQ+ / Pride Heritage Month**
"Pride Month is currently celebrated each year in the month of June to honor the 1969 Stonewall Uprising in Manhattan. The Stonewall Uprising was a tipping point for the Gay Liberation Movement in the United States. In the United States the last Sunday in June was initially celebrated as "Gay Pride Day," but the actual day was flexible. In major cities across the nation the "day" soon grew to encompass a month-long series of events" (Library of Congress).
** NEW ANNOUNCEMENTS **
** IB Score Submission Deadline **
Class of 2026
IB Score Submission Deadline – Class of 2026
Dear Class of 2026 students and families,
Students who would like their IB scores sent to their college or university at no cost must submit a request to Mrs. Freeland, IB Coordinator, by June 1, 2026.
After this date, students must request scores independently and pay a $17 fee directly to the International Baccalaureate.
- Request form: https://forms.gle/oQaN91JZpLkeaJhB8
This information and the form link are also available on all senior IB teachers’ Schoology pages.
If you have questions, please contact Mrs. Freeland at scfreeland@fcps.edu.
Sarah Freeland
Mount Vernon High School Advanced Academics
* Congrats to 4 MVHS Students Recognized by FCPS Early Identification Program *
Congratulations to four (4) Mount Vernon High School seniors who graduated from the FCPS The College Success Programs' Early Identification Program (EIP) at George Mason University on Thursday, May 21st.
The MVHS students recognized by the Early Identification Program were:
- Allison Arevalo Barreda
- Navaeh Blackledge
- Giovanni Hernandez
- Viangely Mateo German
EIP’s mission is to prepare students for college readiness and success in a global society. Through a multi-year approach, the program provides year-round academic enrichment, personal and social development, civic engagement, and leadership opportunities for college-bound, first-generation students in middle and high school. This comprehensive model supports college success, career exploration, and future readiness, while reinforcing the Portrait of a Graduate skills needed to thrive in advanced coursework and persist through higher education.
NOTE: Not all students were in attendance
* Congrats to 4 MVHS Students Recognized by Fellows of Global Leaders *
Congratulation to four (4) Mount Vernon High School seniors who were recognized for their involvement in the Class of 2026 Fellows of Global Leaders in Fairfax County.
The four (4) MVHS students recognized were:
- Savonne Clark
- Molly Lussier
- Emlyn Pascoe
- Ethan Santos
Global Leaders of Fairfax County prepares fellows to become global citizens and community change agents. Throughout their senior year, fellows engage with leaders across sectors, participate in field experiences at civic institutions, travel on study tours, and build a deeper understanding of international affairs and global challenges.
** MVHS Senior Interviewed by FFX Now **
Congratulations to MVHS senior Audrey Ortiz-Peterson, who was recently interviewed by FFX Now, Fairfax County's local news outlet.
See Audrey's article Graduating Mount Vernon student heads to West Point, inspired by father’s military service HERE.
** MV MCJROTC Cadets Visit Riverside ES for Reading Program **
Special thanks to our amazing MCJROTC program for spending time at Riverside Elementary School to support their Reading Program.
See pics from the event below:
** 2026 Senior Interfaith Ceremony **
Sunday, June 7th - 4:00 pm
End of Year Health Room Medication Letter
Pick-Up Date for Medications is June 17th, 2026
Dear Mount Vernon High School Parent or Guardian:
The Mount Vernon High School Health Room wants to remind parents and guardians that all medication stored in the health room must be picked up no later than 10:00 am on the last day of school - Wednesday, June 17, 2026.
- Medication left in the health room after that time will be destroyed. It is school policy that medications must be picked up by the parent or guardian.
- Medication cannot be sent home with your student. However, with parent or guardian permission, a high school student may transport over-the-counter medications to and from the school health room.
- If your student will be enrolled in a summer program sponsored by Fairfax County Public Schools, the existing medication authorization form(s) may be used for the summer program, but you will need to pick up the medication on the last day of school and deliver the medication and completed forms to the summer learning site on the first day of the summer program. Please let the health room know if you would like a copy of the form(s).
2026-2027 School Year Information
Medication authorization forms for next school year may be obtained from the school or online at https://www.fcps.edu/resources/student-safety-and-wellness/school-health-services.
- A medication authorization form is required for any medication, prescription or over-the-counter, to be kept at school.
- Please be sure medication orders are clear.
- All information on the form must be completed.
- Part I must be signed and dated by the parent or guardian.
- Part II must be signed and dated by your health care provider.
- Approved over-the-counter medications given for headaches, muscle aches, orthodontic pain, or menstrual cramps do not need a health care provider’s signature.
- Antibiotic or antiviral medications for 10 consecutive school days or less do not require a health care provider’s signature either.
- For all asthma medications, a Virginia Asthma Action Plan must be provided.
- More detailed information is available on the back of the medication authorization form(s).
Additional Information
- Over-the-counter medication must be in the unopened original container and clearly labeled by the parent or guardian.
- No more than 100 pills/tablets of OTC medication should be brought to school at a time.
- All prescription medication, including samples, must be labeled by the pharmacist or health care provider.
- Please make sure that the label clearly states your student’s name, the name of the medication, the dosage of the medication, and the time to be given.
If you have any questions, please contact your School Health Room Aide Ms. Monique Tyler, or your School Public Health Nurse Ms. Georgina Mawuena, at 706-619-3110.
Thank you for your cooperation and have a good summer.
HERE is the official school letter with the above information.
Sequoyah Council of Co-Owners
Community BBQ Picnic
** Deadline for Self-Directed Economics and Personal Finance (EPF) Course **
This is a reminder regarding the upcoming registration deadlines for the Self-Directed Economics and Personal Finance (EPF) course.
Summer 2026 Term
This course is recommended for FCPS students in grades 9-12 during the 2026-27 school year.
Current FCPS students who will be in grade 9 in 2026-27 may also enroll but must discuss and receive approval from their school counselor and parent/guardian.
Current active FCPS students (2025-26SY) continuing into the 2026-27SY are eligible to take the course over the summer.
- Registration Deadline: Friday, June 6, 2026
- Course Dates: June 22, 2026 – July 24, 2026 (5 weeks)
- Tuition: Full: $130 | Reduced Lunch: $65 | Free Lunch: $13
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2026–27 School Year Term
This is the same course content as the summer term but delivered over 8 months.
Open to FCPS students (Grades 9–12), including new incoming students for the 2026–27 school year.
Students must have a full schedule (7 or 8 periods, depending on the school) and counselor approval to register.
- Registration Deadline: Friday, August 28, 2026
- Course Dates: August 31, 2026 – May 7, 2027 (8 months)
- Tuition: Full: $130 | Reduced Lunch: $65 | Free Lunch: $13
Registration
Registration for the course is completed through the ACE Registration site: Self-Directed EPF Registration.
** NEW FCPS Course Offering – Advanced Swimming & Lifeguard Certification **
A new course, Advanced Swimming & Lifeguard Certification, will be available for rising 10th, 11th and 12th graders in SY 2026-2027.
The course will be held at Skyview High School and open to students from all FCPS high schools. Availability of transportation between students’ base schools and Skyview High School is being determined and will be shared when available.
Students will be eligible to take the lifeguard certification test in the spring. Students successfully completing the test will earn American Red Cross Lifeguarding (including deep water) certification.
More information on the course - as well as registration information - will be shared soon.
** MVHS Needs Substitute Teachers and IAs for the Upcoming 26-27 SY **
Now Hiring: Substitute Teachers and Substitute Instructional Assistants
for the 2026–2027 School Year for Mount Vernon High School
Apply Now
Mount Vernon High School is seeking individuals who can provide continuity of instructional teaching as a substitute teacher and/or substitute instructional assistant. Able to inspire, enable, and empower students to meet high academic standards.
The position offers:
✔ Flexible schedule
✔ Make a difference in your local community
✔ Great for people with a passion for teaching/assisting students
Join our team and support student learning!
Apply today!
For details, visit the FCPS Substitute Employment Website. When applying, search “Substitute” and select the Mount Vernon pyramid posting.
** NEW 2026-2027 SY Cellphone Policy **
Cellphones OFF and AWAY from 8:10a to 2:55p
No More Lunchtime Use Permitted
Please see the VERY IMPORTANT new Cellphone policy in FCPS for NEXT school year. We will continue to educate our students on this new expectation:
New Cellphone Policy Starts July 1st, 2026
On Thursday, May 7, the Fairfax County School Board approved changes to the FCPS Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R). The approved changes include updated guidance for cellphone possession and use, to align the FCPS cell phone policy with Senate Bill 108. This new Virginia law goes into effect on July 1 and states that all schools in the Commonwealth must follow a “bell-to-bell” phone-free policy.
This means that starting July 1, 2026, across all grade levels at FCPS, student cellphones, phone accessories, and all smart devices (including watches that serve a dual purpose, such as smart watches, as well as earbuds, headsets, smart glasses, and other other items connected to the internet) must be off and personally stored (i.e., put away in backpacks) for the duration of the school day — thus, no cellphones from bell to bell (8:10 am to 2:55 pm).
High school students will no longer be able to use cellphones and personal devices during lunchtime.
More details are available on the FCPS Cell Phone Policy webpage.
NOTE: As outlined in the new SR&R regulations, ALL students are expected to follow the established policy and the Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R). Students who do not comply will face consequences outlined in the SR&R.
** Graduation Ceremony Info **
EagleBank Arena Policies
Mount Vernon High School will be holding our 2026 Graduation Ceremony at EagleBank Arena on the campus of George Mason University (4500 Patriot Circle, Fairfax VA, 22030).
The 2026 Graduation Ceremony will begin promptly at 9:00 am.
Seniors must arrive to EagleBank Arena by 8:00 am – and be seated on the arena floor by 8:30 am.
HERE is a link to very important information from the EagleBank Arena policies for all visitors and Seniors.
** MVHS PTSA **
10 Ways You Can Support the School
** MVHS Student Activities **
25-26 MVHS Activities Calendar
Athletics Booster Club
Season Passes for Athletic Events
Dear MVHS Community,
Support our student-athletes by becoming a proud member of the MVHS Athletic Booster Club!
There are many ways you can support MVHS Athletics:
👉 Click here to become a member, make a donation, become a sponsor, and purchase your Athletic Season Passes
👉 Click here to purchase MVHS Spirit Wear
Season Passes – valid for all regular-season home games
- Student - SILVER passes are $30
- Adult - MAROON passes are $75
By purchasing a Season Pass, you’re making a direct impact on our athletic programs. Season passes are not only a convenient and cost-effective option for families and fans, but they also ensure that 100% of gate sales go directly to MVHS.
Game day ticket sales are split 50/50 with the visiting team — so your support goes further with a pass!
Let’s fill the stands and show our school spirit.
Go MAJORS!
25-26 Late Busses
** Mondays & Thursdays Only **
MVHS Late Busses will only run on Mondays & Thursdays this spring of the 2025-2026 SY.
Please plan with your teachers to arrange any after-school support on Mondays or Thursdays.
Breakfast & Lunch Information
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—$3.00
Lunch:
- Secondary and high school —$3.50
- Reduced-price lunch for qualifying students – no charge
- Adults or 2nd student meal —$5.00
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.
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.
MVHS Admin Team
Cary Dimmick - Principal
Karen Boyd - Asst. Prin. (A-Col & ESOL)
Stephanie Payne - Asst. Prin. (Gr. 12 & Jon-Pu)
LaTrease Rich - Asst. Prin. (Gr. 10 & Q-Z)
Kelly Winkfield - Asst. Prin. (Gr. 11 & Con-Joh)
Donnie Olajuwon - Asst. Prin. (Specialized Programs)
Danielle Mascoll - Dir. of Student Services
Brian Murphy - Dir. of Student Activities
John Uccellini - Asst. Dir. of Student Activities
Department of Student Services
Counselors are by Alpha Last Name
** College and Career Center News **
** Scholarships **
MVHS Academic Departments
** MVHS School Resources Sites **
[Click on Resources Below for Websites]
MVHS Website
MVHS Parent Handbook
MVHS Staff Directory
2025-26 SY Calendar
25-26 MVHS Bell Schedules
Major Time Schedule
MVHS Activities Calendar
MVHS Athletic Coaches Contact Information
MVHS Theatre Arts Information
Chapter 35 Military Benefits Info
Mount Vernon HS is a Purple Star School
MVHS PTSA Info
** MVHS Academic Programs **
[Click on Resources Below for Websites]
MVHS Academic Programs Info
IB Diploma Programme Info
IB Career-Related Programme Info
For more important school-related Information,
please see "School Resources Sites" at end of Newsletter
Student Service Learning Hours
** FCPS Resources **
[Click on Resources Below for Websites]
Report Sexual Harassment or Dscrimination
Report Discrimination, Harassment or Concerning Behaviors
Family Resources
FCPS Resources for Immigrant Families
[Click on Resources Below for Websites]
FCPS Resources for Immigrant Families
"One Fairfax" Resources for Families
Emergency Family Preparedness Plan
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
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
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
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.
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.
- HERE is the bus route information for this school year.
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
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.
No-Cost Mental Health Teletherapy
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
Varsity Tutors Provides
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.
** MVHS Yearbook Archives **
** FCPS & MVHS INFORMATION **
Mount Vernon HS School Profile
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
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.
Please visit the FCPS Webpage for all FCPS-related Information
Special Thanks to Our MVHS Photographer
Howard "Chip" Hall - MVHS Volunteer Photographer
Please visit Chip's website HERE for more amazing pics!
News You Choose Newsletter Archives
Links to the Family Newsletters for this 2025-2026 SY
May 2026
HERE is the link for May 31, 2026
HERE is the link for May 24, 2026
HERE is the link for May 17, 2026
HERE is the link for May 10, 2026
HERE is the link for May 3, 2026
April 2026
HERE is the link for April 26, 2026
HERE is the link for April 29, 2026
HERE is the link for April 12, 2026
HERE is the link for April 5, 2026
March 2026
HERE is the link for March 29, 2026
HERE is the link for March 22, 2026
HERE is link for March 15, 2026
HERE is the link for March 8, 2026
HERE is the link for March 1, 2026
February 2026
HERE is the link for February 22, 2026
HERE is the link for February 15, 2026
HERE is the link for February 8, 2026
HERE is the link for February 1, 2026
January 2026
HERE is the link for January 25, 2026
HERE is the link for January 18, 2026
HERE is the link for January 11, 2026
HERE is the link for January 4, 2026
December 2025
HERE is the link for December 14, 2025
HERE is the link for December 7, 2025
November 2025
HERE is the link for November 39, 2025
HERE is the link for November 23, 2025
HERE is the link for November 16, 2025
HERE is the link for November 9, 2025
HERE is the link for November 2, 2025
October 2025
HERE is the link for October 26th, 2025
HERE is the link for October 19th, 2025
HERE is the link for October 12, 2025
HERE is the link for October 5, 2025
September 2025
HERE is the link for September 28, 2025
HERE is the link for September 21, 2025
HERE is the link for September 14, 2025
HERE is the link for September 7, 2025
August 2025
HERE is the link for August 31, 2025
HERE is the link for August 24, 2025
HERE is the link for August 17, 2025