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News You Choose

Family Newsletter - Week of Sept. 21st

News YouChoose Family Newsletter - Week of Sept. 21st
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** NEW ANNOUNCEMENTS ** ** NEW ANNOUNCEMENTS **

** Interims Next Fri; Sept. 26th ** ** Interims Next Fri; Sept. 26th **

FCPS will be releasing Interim Reports to families next Friday, September 26th at the conclusion of the school day.


Parents/Caregivers who have set up a ParentVue account will receive messages from your child's teachers with an Interim update for each class.

Do You Want Weekly Progress Report Emails? Do You Want Weekly Progress Report Emails?

All parents/guardians of MS and HS students who have registered for a SIS ParentVUE Account and have a primary email address recorded in SIS ParentVUE can receive Weekly Progress Reports via email.


This report provides a summary of your student(s) grades for the current quarter.


To activate the Weekly Progress Reports via email, login to your SIS ParentVUE Account and first verify that you have a primary email address within the system.



  • It is listed under the “My Account” tab. If it is blank, enter the email address where you would like to receive the progress reports and click on update account.



Once confirmed, parents/guardians are able to activate and select their preferences for receiving these reports within the SIS ParentVUE “My Account” tab.


Weekly progress reports for all of your middle and high school students will be included in one email.

Click HERE for more information on the Weekly Progress Report Emails Click HERE for more information on the Weekly Progress Report Emails

MVHS Need Your Help! MVHS Need Your Help!

We need to reduce our chronic absenteeism! We need to reduce our chronic absenteeism!

Mission 10% — Every Day Matters at Mount Vernon!



At Mount Vernon High School, we’re on a mission to ensure all students have the best chance to succeed.


Did you know that the state considers a student chronically absent if they miss 10% or more of the school year—that’s just 18 days total? Every day counts toward learning, achievement, and future opportunities.


This year, our goal is to reduce chronic absenteeism to below 10%. We are currently averaging a daily chronic absentee rate ~14%, so we need your partnership to make it happen!


Families, please help us by:


  • Encouraging daily, on-time attendance
  • Scheduling appointments outside of school hours whenever possible
  • Reaching out if you need support with barriers to attendance

We appreciate your support in helping our MVHS students find success at school.

Meditation and Silent Reflection During Instructional Time Meditation and Silent Reflection During Instructional Time

Parent Permission Form Below Parent Permission Form Below

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Per regulation, Mt. Vernon High School provides a mediation/prayer room for students and staff during the day.


Meditation and Silent Reflection During Instructional Time


Students are generally expected to stay in class during instructional time. Students are only permitted to use Meditation and Silent Reflection rooms during instructional time when there is an approved accommodation.



  • Parents/caregivers must provide written permission for a student to miss instructional time for prayer, meditation, and silent reflection.

  • All requests for such accommodations during instructional time should be directed to the school principal or principal designee.



Please use this form below to indicate that you give permission for your student to miss instructional time for prayer, meditation, and silent reflection for the ‘25-26 school year.



  • HERE is the link for submission.

MVHS 2025-26 AP/IB Test Opt-Out Process MVHS 2025-26 AP/IB Test Opt-Out Process

MVHS 2025-26 AP/IB Test Opt-Out Process


FCPS encourages all students to take AP/IB tests for courses in which they are enrolled. However, students will have the opportunity to opt out of the external assessments by filling out an Opt-Out form to be provided by the school.



  • Opting out of AP Gov means you will not take the test in May.

  • Opting out of IB classes means you will not take the test in May, and your internal assessment will not be submitted to the IB.

  • Opting out of AP and IB means students will not earn a score to be used as college credit.



Assignments and assessments in IB and AP courses help to prepare students for the exam and are included in the student’s class grade. Students who choose to opt out of AP/IB tests are still required to meet all course standards and expectations as outlined in the FCPS curriculum and as if they intend to sit for the exam.



  • Please speak with your teacher if you have any questions on how assignments will or will not impact your grade.



To receive the Opt-out form, enrolling parents/guardians must request the form by emailing MVHS Advanced Academics Coordinator, Sarah Freeland scfreeland@fcps.edu.To assist in the decision-making process, students will be provided a report with their previous tests and current AP/IB course enrollment.


AP/IB students must make Opt-Out decisions by October 31st.



AP/IB Exam Fees


As part of the FCPS Approved Budget, the fees for the first six AP/IB tests taken for courses in which students are enrolled for high school credit will be paid for by FCPS. Students taking AP tests without enrolling in the corresponding FCPS course are responsible for the test fee(s).


Student accounts will be billed in December for tests that exceed the six FCPS-funded tests. The nonrefundable fees are $99 per AP exam, or a $124 fee per IB exam.



2026 AP Testing


Reference the College Board AP exam dates site for dates of AP Exams.


2026 IB Testing


Reference the 2026 IB exam dates here.

Homecoming 2025 Homecoming 2025

"Spirit Week" "Spirit Week"

Sept. 29th to Oct 3rd Sept. 29th to Oct 3rd

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** Reminder Announcements ** ** Reminder Announcements **

** IMPORTANT ** ** IMPORTANT **

World Language Credit by Exam World Language Credit by Exam

Dear MVHS Parents and Caregivers:


In response to the rich linguistic and cultural diversity of our community, students in grades 7-12 are offered the opportunity to take the World Languages Credit by Exam (WLCBE).



  • The WLCBE assesses language proficiency in languages other than English and recognizes the strengths that our students bring as effective communicators in multiple languages.


This assessment may be used to award world language credits towards graduation, determine course placement for language courses offered in Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS), and fulfill the world languages requirements for the Virginia Seal of Biliteracy: https://www.doe.virginia.gov/parents-students/for-students/graduation/graduation- requirement-resources/graduation-diploma-seals/seal-of-biliteracy.



  • The exam is offered in the fall and the spring each school year.



A student may participate in the exam a total of two times per language, with no more than one attempt each year. In other words, students have two chances per language to earn credits by taking the exam between grades 7 and 12.



  • The spring exam is only available for eligible students who enroll in FCPS after the fall registration deadline of October 17th.


Students who wish to take the exam should be able to proficiently understand and communicate in the testing language, and will be asked to listen, read, speak, and either write/type or, for American Sign Language, sign/interpret. For more information on how to prepare for the exam and scoring criteria you may visit our website: https://www.fcps.edu/academics/high/world-languages/credit-exam-world-languages.



  • If you would like your student to participate in the next available WLCBE, please have your child register for the exam through their school counselor by Friday, October 17th.

  • NO LATE REGISTRATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED.


Please visit our website to see the list of available languages: https://www.fcps.edu/academics/student-tests- assessments/types-student-assessment/credit-by-exam-world-language#languages-and-testing-method

Supporting Twice-Exceptional (2e) Supporting Twice-Exceptional (2e)

Students in FCPS Schools Students in FCPS Schools

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Fort Hunt Sports Association Fort Hunt Sports Association

Youth Athletics Youth Athletics

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Athletics Booster Club Athletics Booster Club

Season Passes for Athletic Events 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!

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10 Ways You Can Support the School 10 Ways You Can Support the School

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French Club & Honor Society Application French Club & Honor Society Application

French Club & Honor Society


Anyone interested in The French Language and Francophone Cultures may come to French Club meetings. They will be held at once or twice a month from 3:05 to 3:30 on Thursdays. We will make Silhouettes, Maps of French Place names in the USA, other crafts and have fundraisers for possible field trips.


French Honor Society Application French students who have received an A in one quarter of French 3 or IB French are eligible to be inducted into the French Honor Society. We will have at least 2 meetings during the school year. One to prepare for the autumn inductions and one to distribute cords for graduation.

MVHS Booster Club MVHS Booster Club

2025 Clothing Website 2025 Clothing Website

Click HERE to check out the new MVHS Gear! Click HERE to check out the new MVHS Gear!

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FCPS Webinar for Families FCPS Webinar for Families

September 26th - 11:30 am September 26th - 11:30 am

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PSAT/NMSQT & SAT Day PSAT/NMSQT & SAT Day

Wed; October 8th, 2025 Wed; October 8th, 2025

Early Release Day @ 12:55p for Students Early Release Day @ 12:55p for Students

On Wednesday, October 8, 2025, MVHS 10th and 11th grade students will be taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) exam, and all pre-registered 12th grade students will be participating in SAT School Day


School Day Schedule



  • All FCPS high schools will operate on a two-hour early release schedule.

  • Please see the early release schedule HERE.

  • High school academy courses and all high school shuttles will be canceled on this day.



Transportation



  • Regular bus routes will be provided in the morning and after the early release.

  • Families of students requiring alternate transportation arrangements due to accommodated testing will be contacted directly by the PSAT Coordinator or SAT School Day Coordinator .

Annual FCPS College Fair Annual FCPS College Fair

Sun; October 19th - 4p-6p Sun; October 19th - 4p-6p

College Fair and the Postsecondary Virtual Night Event


The annual FCPS College Fair will be held on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at George Mason University’s Eagle Bank Arena from 4:00-6:00 p.m.


Approximately 200 colleges and universities will be represented, including two and four-year colleges and US Service Academies.


Following the fair, the Postsecondary Virtual Night Event will be held on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, from 5:00-8:00 p.m.


Both events can help students be better prepared for the next chapter of their educational journey.


Students may REGISTER HERE.

MVHS Theatre Arts Boosters Fall Festival MVHS Theatre Arts Boosters Fall Festival

Sat; October 25, 2025 Sat; October 25, 2025

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** NEW FCPS Volunteer Requirements ** ** NEW FCPS Volunteer Requirements **

    Ensuring Student Safety: Register for Volunteer FCPS


At Mount Vernon High School, our volunteers are a vital part of our school community. We deeply value the time and care they give to our students.


This information segment is to share recent updates to our FPCS volunteer process, with a focus on one primary goal: keeping students safe.


These updates — such as checks against the sex offender registry and, in some cases, criminal background checks — are safety measures that will help us maintain a secure and supportive learning environment for every student in our care.


We encourage all our parents and community members interested in supporting our students by volunteering at MVHS to click HERE, then click “Learn More,” and then “Sign Up.”


  • After you create a profile, you will view an orientation video and complete a volunteer application.


Volunteer FCPS ensures a safe, consistent, and welcoming environment at all of our schools. All volunteers must be registered in Volunteer FCPS. This includes individuals who volunteer to chaperone on field trips, work at book fairs, and help out regularly in classrooms, libraries, or cafeterias. Volunteers who work unsupervised with students will also be required to undergo a background check.


We understand these changes may seem disruptive, especially for long-time volunteers. Our intent is to ensure that our students feel safe and supported with each and every person they encounter at school.


As a reminder, all volunteers — and visitors to a school — are required to sign in by scanning their ID at our visitor kiosk. Visit the Volunteer FCPS Frequently Asked Questions page to learn more.


Volunteer Levels


Level 1: Infrequent volunteers (monthly or less frequent) who are always supervised do not need a criminal background check.


  • However, they do need a sex offender registry check, which is performed by signing in at the school's visitor kiosk, usually in the front office.


Level 2: Frequent, ongoing, or regular volunteers (daily, weekly, bi-weekly) who are also always supervised are subject to the same requirements as Level 1 — no criminal background check, but a sex offender registry check via the kiosk is mandatory.


Level 3: Volunteers with direct, unsupervised interaction with students must complete a criminal background check, including fingerprinting and child abuse and neglect checks. This applies to roles like mentors, tutors, or field trip chaperones who are alone with students (not accompanied by an FCPS staff member) at any time during the activity.



Student Volunteers: FCPS students who volunteer under the supervision of an FCPS staff member or parent/caretaker. Student behavior while volunteering is governed by the FCPS Student Rights and Responsibilities. Students should not sign up through the Volunteer FCPS management system, nor should they check in via the visitor management system.

National Honor Society National Honor Society

Application Window: 8/22 to 10/31 Application Window: 8/22 to 10/31

The National Honor Society (NHS) is an acclaimed high school organization that recognizes and celebrates exceptional student achievement in the four pillars of scholarship, service, leadership, and character.


10th-12th grade Majors with a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.5 or higher are eligible and invited to apply to MVHS’s National Honor Society Chapter!


If students have already been inducted and remain in good academic standing with a 3.5 GPA, no action is needed. 😊


  • The application window is from August 22nd- October 31st, 2025.

  • The link to apply can be found here. 😊


We look forward to receiving your application!


Sarah Freeland

Mount Vernon High School Advanced Academics

MVHS is a CLOSED Campus MVHS is a CLOSED Campus

** Students must remain in school ** ** Students must remain in school **

** Students may not leave campus during lunch ** ** Students may not leave campus during lunch **

Just a reminder that MVHS is a closed campus. Students may not leave school unless a parent sends a written note to the school.


Lunches are also closed. Students are expected to eat lunch in our cafeteria.


MVHS also does not permit food deliveries. Any food delivered to the main office will be kept until dismiss at 2:55 pm.

25-26 Late Busses 25-26 Late Busses

** Thursdays Only ** ** Thursdays Only **

MVHS Late Busses will only run on Thursdays this 2025-2026 SY.


Please plan with your teachers to arrange any after-school support on Thursdays.

Breakfast & Lunch Information 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.

Free and Reduced Meals Info for 25-26 SY Free and Reduced Meals Info for 25-26 SY

** Application for THIS YEAR is Due Oct 30, 2025 ** ** Application for THIS YEAR is Due Oct 30, 2025 **

Last School Year's Eligibility is Only Good Until Sept. 30th Last School Year's Eligibility is Only Good Until Sept. 30th

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 24-25 is valid for the first thirty (30) school days.
  • Households will be required to submit a new application by October 30, 2025

Apply on the Free and Reduced-Price Meals webpage.

MANDATORY Student Forms for 25-26 SY MANDATORY Student Forms for 25-26 SY

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HERE is the link to the 2025-2026 mandatory Student Forms that all families must fill out for each new school year.


These forms can also be found on our school website HERE.


Mandatory Forms include:


Parent Digital Tool Permission Application - electronic submission only

Emergency Care Form - paper version to be printed and returned

Emergency Care Form in ParentVue - electronic version

Health Information Form - must be printed and turned in; copies available in the office

SR&R signature page - must be printed and turned in; copies available in the office

Military Connected Students Form - must be printed and turned in; copies available in the office



Other Student-Specific Forms (links and descriptions)


Free and Reduced Lunch Application (Form is electronic only – cannot be printed and signed) and Consent to Share Information Form Must be completed and turned in for your child to receive free/reduced fees for classes, athletics, etc.


  • IMPORTANT: Students must re-apply for Free and Reduced Meals each school year.
  • Approved students have until Wednesday, October 1, 2025 to re-apply.
  • After October 1, 2025, students will pay full price for food.
  • If you do not re-apply for this 25-26 school year, you will have to pay full price for food.


Homeless Student Referral Form - Only returned for students who are homeless



Clinic Health forms (if applicable to your child)


  • Medication Authorization Form – Request personnel to administer medication to your child during school day.
  • Student Use of Inhalers Form – Authorize your child to use an inhaler in school as prescribed.
  • Student Use of Epi-Pen Form – Authorize FCPS personnel to administer epinephrine injection(s) as directed by a physician.




Parent Information regarding Student Opt-Out Rights and Choices

(if applicable to your child)



  • Wellness Survey opt-out form – 9th and 11th grades only; this opt out is for parents who do not wish for their child to participate in the SOS program.
  • FLE Opt-Out - to opt child out of all or some of the Family Life Education lessons (form specific to grade level)
  • Annual Opt out (Annual Notice of Survey, Records, Curriculum, Privacy, and Related Rights and Opt-Out Forms) – Opt-out choices related to surveys, records, curriculum, privacy, and related rights. One Page Flyer
  • FCPS-issued Laptop Opt Out Form - for parents who wish to provide a laptop to their student
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** MVHS Student Activities ** ** MVHS Student Activities **

25-26 MVHS Activities Calendar 25-26 MVHS Activities Calendar

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Our MVHS Student Activities Website will be full of important information for our students and families.


HERE is the link to the 25-26 MVHS Activities Calendar


HERE is the link to the MVHS Student Activities Website.


HERE is a link to the 2025-2026 Athletic Coaches List

MVHS Admin Team MVHS Admin Team

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Cary Dimmick - Principal

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Karen Boyd - Asst. Prin. (A-Col & ESOL)

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Stephanie Payne - Asst. Prin. (Gr. 12 & Jon-Pu)

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LaTrease Rich - Asst. Prin. (Gr. 10 & Q-Z)

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Kelly (Davis) Winkfield - Asst. Prin. (Gr. 11 & Con-Joh)

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Adrian Williams - Asst. Prin. (Specialized Program)

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Danielle Mascoll - 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

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Counselors By Alpha Last Name Counselors By Alpha Last Name

** Click HERE for the Updated Counseling Caseloads ** ** Click HERE for the Updated Counseling Caseloads **

** MVHS School Resources Sites ** ** MVHS School Resources Sites **

[Click on Resources Below for Websites]

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MVHS Website

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MVHS Parent Handbook

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MVHS Staff Directory

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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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Chapter 35 Military Benefits Info

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Mount Vernon HS is a Purple Star School

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MVHS PTSA Info

** MVHS Academic Programs ** ** MVHS Academic Programs **

[Click on Resources Below for Websites]

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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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Top 10 Reasons Why MVHS is a Great School!

For more important school-related Information, For more important school-related Information,

please see "School Resources Sites" at end of Newsletter please see "School Resources Sites" at end of Newsletter

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Student Service Learning Hours Student Service Learning Hours

Click HERE to Learn How to Register Student Hours Click HERE to Learn How to Register Student Hours

** FCPS Resources ** ** FCPS Resources **

[Click on Resources Below for Websites]

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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

FCPS Resources for Immigrant Families FCPS Resources for Immigrant Families

[Click on Resources Below for Websites]

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FCPS Resources for Immigrant Families

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"One Fairfax" Resources for Families

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Emergency Family Preparedness Plan

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** College and Career Center News ** ** College and Career Center News **

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Click HERE for the College and Career Center Newsletter Click HERE for the College and Career Center Newsletter

2025-2026 ASVAB Testing Dates 2025-2026 ASVAB Testing Dates

Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) Test Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) Test

The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is a multiple-aptitude battery that measures developed abilities and helps predict future academic and occupational success in leadership careers. This test has been utilized for years by the military to help soldiers identify their leadership capabilities. It is administered annually to more than one million military applicants, high school, and post-secondary students.


We have confirmed the ASVAB Testing dates for MVHS for the 2025-2026 SY:


Fall Choices:

  • January 28, 2026 (mass testing)

Spring Choices:

  • April 7, 2026 (regular testing)

Armed Services Recruitment Dates Armed Services Recruitment Dates

Army:


  • 2nd Thursday each month
  • Staff Sergeant Sessie & Staff Sergeant Sweeny


Air Force:


  • TBD


Marines:


  • 1st Thursday each month
  • Sergeant Pennington


Navy:


  • TBD

** Scholarships ** ** Scholarships **

BIG Scholarship Offers! BIG Scholarship Offers!

The Harry F. Byrd, Jr. Leadership Award


  • Self-nominations for the Harry F. Byrd, Jr. Leadership Award are now open! Please read the following information and fill out the nomination form before the deadline October 15, 2025 at 11:59 PM.
  • The Leadership Award seeks to reward applicants who consistently display excellence of character, qualities of leadership, devotion to duty, and academic accomplishment. While academic excellence is a consideration, the selection of award recipients emphasizes the importance of leadership and public service.
  • Therefore, most recipients are leaders who go above and beyond their peers to improve themselves and to make a difference in the lives of others. Most recipients engage in endeavors that demonstrate their independence, initiative, courage, personal discipline, strong work ethic, commitment to community service, leadership qualities, ability to confront challenges, and pursuit of academic excellence. For example, prior award recipients:

  • Served on school honor councils;

  • Worked on political campaigns;

  • Served in student government;

  • Traveled overseas to serve others;

  • Led a morning fitness program;

  • Started charitable organizations;

  • Learned multiple languages;

  • Attended community college while in high school; and

  • Participated as captains of sports teams and academic teams.


This award comes with a $30,000 scholarship.


2025-2026 Award Timetable:

  • October 15, 2025 – Student Self Nominations close at 11:59 PM.
  • MVHS Nominated student will be notified by November 1, 2025.
  • December 1, 2025 – Each applicant must submit his/her electronic application by 5:00 p.m. on December 1, 2025.
  • December 4-5, 2025 – The Award Screening Committee will review all applications and submit three finalists from each congressional district to the Award Selection Committee.
  • January 23-24, 2026 – The Award Selection Committee will interview the 33 finalists in Richmond.
  • Late January 2026 – Winners will be notified.
  • February 18, 2026 – 2 p.m. Recipients will be presented awards at a ceremony in Richmond.


The self-nomination form can be found here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdaFtySbX1H4_TEVNQlZhY793kdgZB0jtfPPZ9JBRetKhpitg/viewform?usp=header

Inaccurate or incomplete submissions will not be accepted.


************************************************************************************


The Pamplin Leadership Award (PLA) – Virginia Tech


  • This year's Pamplin Leadership Award (PLA) season is now open!
  • The PLA was established by Robert B. Pamplin, Sr. (VT Class of 1933) and Robert B. Pamplin, Jr. to acknowledge students who demonstrate superior intellectual promise, academic performance, dedication to their communities, interest and success in physical fitness and health, and unimpeachable integrity.
  • The PLA is a one-year, merit-based $5,000 Virginia Tech scholarship presented to up to forty qualified students from Virginia's public high schools.
  • Each school's one nominee must have a 3.8 or better GPA.


Mount Vernon High School can only nominate one student for this award.


Required steps to be considered for nomination:

1. Fill out this required nomination form by October 15, 2025 at 11:59 PM.

2. Email Ms. Whitehouse (mlwhitehouse@fcps.edu) your required essay by October 15, 2025 at 11:59 PM.

3. Apply to Virginia Tech and the Virginia Tech Honors College by the early action deadline of November 1, 2025. The Honors College is required for the winner of this award.


If you are selected as the MVHS nominee, you will complete the following steps:


1. Complete the online application through Virginia Tech's Scholarship Central site (only available to students who have submitted their undergraduate admissions application).

2. You will receive instructions to create a Guest Account 1-3 days after submitting the application.

3. The login credentials used to create a Guest Account also allow a student access to Scholarship Central.

4. You must complete the Virginia Tech general scholarship application (https://vt.academicworks.com).

5. Once the general scholarship application is complete, you may apply for the PLA (https://vt.academicworks.com/opportunities/60487)


Do not mail paper applications or supplemental materials! They will not be considered.


Also required in the PLA application:

1. Essay: In an essay of 500 words or fewer, discuss your understanding of effective leadership. [1] What are some qualities of effective leadership? [2] How do you measure effective leadership? [3] Describe the qualities of one effective leader you know, including evidence of how they exemplify these qualities. [4] Where, when, and how have you applied these qualities in your own leadership roles to date? [5] How, specifically, do you intend to continue your development as a leader at Virginia Tech?

2. In the application, verify the name and email address of a high school official (usually the your counselor) who will verify that the applicant is the high school's nominee. The official will then receive electronic notification with instructions to validate the student.


AS A REMINDER: A high school’s nominee is an applicant. Not all applicants will be selected as recipients, as there are more public high schools in Virginia than there are Pamplin Leadership Awards.


The Honors College, not the high school, notifies the student if they are selected as a Pamplin Leadership Award recipient.


Applications must be validated by the high school official listed in the application by January 7, 2026 to be considered. This means that the applicant must complete the application several days prior so that the system has time to generate the verification form to the school official. This deadline is firm - students must plan ahead and not procrastinate. Any request for an application extension will be denied.


Any problems accessing the PLA application must be referred to the Office of University Scholarships and Financial Aid at 540-231-5179; the Honors College cannot help with application troubleshooting.


The self nomination form can be found here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScpor2qdD9KTreRY_DhHG0gWQQbCLf4zWD0bemCJ05WSA7Dmg/viewform?usp=header


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The Jefferson and Walentas Scholarships:


  • The Jefferson Scholars Foundation seeks to attract the most promising student leaders to the University of Virginia. These students should demonstrate superior potential for providing exceptional contributions to the University as students, to the world at large, and as alumni of the University. In granting the awards, the Foundation looks for excellence in:

  1. leadership ability

  2. scholarship ability

  3. responsible citizenship


To be eligible to compete, a nominee must:


  1. Be an enrolled member of the current graduating class who has not yet received a diploma.

  2. Be selected by their school as the nominee.

  3. Not have been previously nominated for a Jefferson or Walentas Scholarship.


In addition, Walentas Scholarship nominees must be first-generation college-bound, defined as neither parent/primary guardian having earned a bachelor’s degree (or the international equivalent) by the start of a student’s final year of high school.


Jefferson and Walentas Scholarships provide full financial support for four years of study at the University of Virginia, as well as enrichment opportunities like travel abroad, career development opportunities, and access to the Foundation’s extensive network of Scholars, Fellows, alumni, and volunteers. You must be a candidate who is willing to complete the entire process and apply to UVA. Complete your UVA application ASAP!


For your information: The average GPA for admitted students at UVA is 4.0+, the average SAT is 1400+, and the average ACT is 32+.


With all of this in mind, I would like to invite students who believe they are competitive and meet the qualifications to self-nominate for these amazing opportunities. The deadline for these nominations is October 10th at 11:59 PM. All parts of the nomination process (google form, and both essays emailed to me) must be complete by that deadline. Late submissions, incomplete submissions, or incorrect submissions will not be accepted.


To self-nominate for the Jefferson, please fill out the following: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdfxyThSOK4vAWYJqRqjYqZ-1owMLSTe9S8dsRitrdxaPV1rw/viewform?usp=header


To self-nominate for the Walentas, please fill out the following: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdxQvmT_TBUr1oPhnpy48wpO7AcUSm16rjBVL57uF_yK5ZKDQ/viewform?usp=header


Nominations will be reviewed for authenticity and then voted on by the members of the MVHS Scholarship Committee. Only two students will be selected: one for the Jefferson, and one for the Walentas.


Timeline:

  • October 10th, 11:59 PM: Student self-nomination and essays due.
  • November 10th - November 15th: Selected nominees are notified, and MVHS will submit nominees (one for each scholarship) to The Jefferson Foundation.
  • December 2025-February 2026: Regional review and interviews are conducted.
  • Late February 2026: Final virtual interviews are conducted.
  • Prior to April 20th, 2026: Recipients are notified.
  • April 20th, 2026: Deadline for recipients to accept the offer.


I encourage you to visit: https://www.jeffersonscholars.org/scholarships, https://www.jeffersonscholars.org/scholarships/walentas-faqs, and https://www.jeffersonscholars.org/ to learn more about these esteemed opportunities.

** Other Scholarships ** ** Other Scholarships **

Please check both the Student Services: Mount Vernon High School Schoology pages and the Scholarship tool in Naviance. You can also always visit Mrs. Whitehouse in the College and Career Center to learn more!


For more FCPS Scholarships, please visit: Scholarships for FCPS Students | Fairfax County Public Schools


Voice of Democracy Scholarship

  • Amount: $35,000 Deadline: 10/31/2025

  • See details HERE


Harris Goodall Squires Memorial Scholarship Amount:


  • $5,000 Deadline: 4/1/2026

  • Application in Naviance

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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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.


  • 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 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.

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

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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.

** MVHS Yearbook Archives ** ** MVHS Yearbook Archives **

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The Library of Virginia has archived the old Mount Vernon High yearbooks— starting with 1940!


  • See the link HERE.


In addition, the Fairfax County Collection can be found in within the Fairfax County Public Library archives. They are all stored on the Internet Archive.


  • See the link HERE.
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** 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

Links to the Family Newsletters for this 2025-2026 SY

September 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

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2025-26 SY Calendar

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25-26 MVHS Bell Schedules

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Major Time Schedule

Cary Dimmick
Follow me on Instagram for MVHS Highlights
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