FCPS

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

如果您想以其他语言阅读此新闻时讯，请访问我们的网站。

이 소식지를 다른 언어로 읽으려면, 우리 웹사이트를 방문하시기 바랍니다.

.يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى

Be sure to follow us on Twitter (@OaktonHS), and Instagram @oaktonhs ! Be sure to check out our Oakton Accolades section on our website as we celebrate student achievement!  

Important Dates 

You can access the FCPS 2023-2024 school year calendar here.   

May 6 - May 17 - AP Exams 

May 20 - Senior Internships Begin; Biology SOL

May 21 - Biology SOL 

May 27 - No School, Memorial Day 

May 31 - June 5 - Senior Final Exams (Early Release Days - 12th grade only) 

June 5-June 10 - Underclassmen Exams (Early Release Days: June 6, June 7, June 10)

June 11 - Class of 2024 Graduation, No School 

June 12 - Last Day of School - Early Release (10:10am) 

General Information End of Year Calendars and Information

All of our end of year calendars and information have been posted on the Oakton HS website.  This information can easily be accessed here or by visiting our website and viewing the announcement on the homepage.  

Medication Pick-up

For any students that have medication at Oakton, the school health room would like to remind parents and guardians that all medication must be picked up no later than the student dismissal time on the last day of school (June 12, 2024, 10:10am). Medication left in the health room after that time will be destroyed. Please review this message for more information: Medication Pickup Letter. 

Attend School Every Day!

One of our School Innovation and Improvement Plan (SIIP) goals is to lower the percentage of our students who are chronically absent (Students who are absent from school more than 10% of the school year).

We have made great strides and trending to meet our goal but students need to continue attending school every day. Please continue to help us emphasize the importance of school attendance!

• Check Your Child’s Attendance: Parents can log into the Student Information System (SIS) Parent Account 
• Help your student stay engaged at school.
• Report future absences.
• Understand the FCPS school calendar.

Cougar Commendations!

It’s time for Spring 2024 Cougar Commendations.

Teachers are nominating students for their achievements towards one of the five Fairfax County Portrait of a Graduate attributes. Nominated students will be recognized at a ceremony at 10 am on Thursday 23 May. In addition, we also have Faculty/Staff Cougar Commendations to recognize OHS faculty/staff for their hard work, passion, and innovation. Parents and guardians can use this nomination form to recognize a faculty/staff member.

All nominations are due by the end of the day on Wednesday, May 15th. Faculty recipients will be recognized at our end-of-year faculty meeting. Our staff greatly appreciates the acknowledgment of their work with our students.

Please get in touch with Ms. Kambic ([email protected]) or Ms. Kuhn ([email protected]) with any questions.

🩹 Required Immunizations for Rising 7th and 12th Graders

Immunizations are required for all students entering 7th and 12th grades this fall. Visit the FCPS immunization webpage to learn about the required vaccines.  Caregivers should ask their private healthcare provider or the health department to review their student's immunization record to ensure that their student has received these required immunizations. 

It is important to schedule immunizations early in the summer, as seventh grade students must submit documentation of the Tdap and Meningococcal vaccines before they begin school in August. Twelfth grade students must submit documentation of the Meningococcal vaccine.

Get more information on all student immunization requirements.

Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS): Parent Program

Oakton High School is partnering with our Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist, Mr. McNulty, and the Fairfax County Police Department to bring back the Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS) parent program for the second time this school year. 

Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS) is FREE and has seats available!

Join us Thursday, May 30th from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Oakton High School (Lecture Hall).  Please use Door 2 to enter.  

Register here:  https://bit.ly/hipsohs05302024

The Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS) program is an IN-PERSON interactive program for adults to be educated about the signs of risky behavior in teens and young adults. It touches on drug and alcohol use, mental health concerns, eating disorders, risky sexual behaviors and more.

The PowerPoint presentation details red flags (props will be passed around) and how they are indicative of — or used in — risky behavior. We include up to date statistics and local trends, and law enforcement officers will share their experiences they have had in our community identifying risky behavior and helping to put kids on the right path to a healthy life.  Let’s open the door to communicating with our teens!

Partners for Safe Teen Driving Presentation

All students enrolled in Classroom Driver Education during the 2023-2024 school year must attend an in-person Partners for Safe Teen Driving (PSTD). The presentation is connected to successful classroom instruction and must be completed to receive a DEC-District 8 card (pink card). The parent-teen traffic safety presentation (PSTD) will be offered multiple times during the school year at Oakton. Students and their parents/guardians should plan to attend the presentation at Oakton at your earliest convenience.  

All PSTDs begin promptly. Late admission will not be allowed. 

2023-2024 Dates:

1. Wednesday, January 31, 6:30pm in the Auditorium (Rescheduled from January 16 Snow Day)
2. Tuesday, March 19, 6:30pm in the Auditorium
3. Wednesday, May 29, 6:30pm in the Auditorium

These sessions are intended for Sophomores. Juniors and Seniors can attend a session through Adult and Community Education.

PSTD nights are not available to freshmen.

Yearbook Sales

Yearbooks and senior baby ads for the 2023-2024 school year are now on sale! You can purchase yearbook packages at www.yearbookordercenter.com using the code 4770. Standalone yearbooks are also available via MySchoolBucks. Prices start at $67 and will increase throughout the year, so buy early to save.

Don’t wait – the last two years sold out. Please note that senior baby ads are sold out at this time.  Questions? Email [email protected]

Student Services Updates  Student Services Newsletter

Greetings Oakton families!  In this month’s edition of Student Services newsletter, we highlight our Junior Parent Night Recording, Stress Less Week activities, and testing information.  Upcoming events such as NOVA’s JumpStart Program and summer school information are provided.  May is Mental Health Awareness Month; check out several resources, trainings, and webinars that Fairfax County offers our community. 

Course Registration 2024-2025 

Course selections are now locked as we begin building our master schedule for next school year.  If you have any questions, please reach out to the appropriate school counselor.  In June, we will begin taking schedule change requests for a set period of time.  At that time, changes will only be approved based on space availability and finalized course offerings.  

Testing Updates SOL Testing

SOL testing began on April 26 and will run through May 21.  Families and students received email notification regarding their testing schedule if they were slated to take an SOL this school year.  

More information on SOL's can be found on the Oakton HS website.  

AP Test Preparation for Students and Parents

The May AP Testing window for Oakton High School begins May 6th-17th. To help prepare students and parents for AP Exams we want to remind everyone where they can find important details and information. Please find the below links helpful with any questions you might have. As always if you need support or have concerns, please contact the AP Testing Coordinator Kimberly Stewart [email protected].

Oakton High School AP Testing – information regarding our testing calendar and FAQ can be found HERE

AP College Board Account Help – log in assistance and other support can be found HERE. *Oakton staff and administration can not access any student account with College Board to resolve issues*

AP Digital Exams – Oakton will administer six AP Exams digitally this year. Information for students who are testing digitally must have the Bluebook App on their school issued Chromebook. Directions can be found HERE

Digital Exams at Oakton High School 2024

• AP Computer Science Principles
• AP English Language and Composition 
• AP English Literature and Composition 
• AP European History 
• AP Seminar 
• AP U.S. History 
• AP World History: Modern

Make sure your student knows about all the free resources in AP Classroom they can use to review material, check their understanding, and get quick feedback on their areas of strength and where they need more practice. On April 22, College Board will be releasing a brand-new batch of AP Daily: Practice Sessions. These videos are focused on practicing free-response and multiple-choice questions for the AP courses that offer them. Last year’s videos are still available too. New video recordings for each course will be released on April 22. All videos will be posted on YouTube and in AP Classroom and can be watched on demand at any time.

Service Learning Senior Service Learning Hours and X2VOL

The last day for Seniors to submit Service Learning hours to X2Vol for approval was April 19th at 3pm. All Seniors must have submitted any hours prior to this date if they wish to have them approved for graduation awards and recognition. Please see the information provided below regarding graduation awards and recognition tied to Service Learning in FCPS. If you have any questions please reach out to Kimberly Stewart, our Service Learning Liaison, with your questions [email protected]. This date is for Seniors ONLY. All other underclass students may continue to submit Service Learning hours in X2VOL. Oakton High School Service Learning information can be found HERE.

Service-Learning for Graduates Service Learning Hours Cord: 40 hours 

This is separate from government.  Students can use the hours that they used for government, but they will need a total of 40 hours from the past 4 years in order to earn a service cord at graduation.

• Note to Underclassmen: Hours/Reflections will be recorded by the student on x2VOL website. 
• Note to current Seniors: You will not get the actual cord until graduation rehearsal.

Civics Seal Application: 50 hours

This is an application approved by the state of VA, and requires 50 hours of service, as well as a B average in History/Government. It will allow students to be eligible to receive a civics seal on their diploma. 

• Please talk to your Social Studies teacher for more information. 

Volunteer Fairfax

Volunteer Fairfax is a resource that can be used to find out about service-learning opportunities in the community. Service learning is a great way for students and families to engage with local nonprofits and volunteer. More information about Volunteer opportunities on this day can be found on Volunteer Fairfax’s website.

Disclaimer: Opportunities offered by organizations other than Fairfax County Public Schools are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or a specific school. These opportunities may utilize technology tools that have not been assessed by the Fairfax County Public Schools Department of Information Technology. Students should gain permission from their parent or guardian before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity and families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any technology platform that the enrichment opportunity may use before participating.

Class of 2024 Information Senior Letter 

An updated senior letter was emailed out on Friday, May 10 to all 12th grade families.  That information has also been uploaded to the Oakton website and can be found here. Please be sure to look at this information as there have been updates since the January letter. 

Health and Wellness Updates 2023-2024 Health & Safety Guidance for Schools

Be sure to review FCPS Health and Safety Guidance for the best ways to prevent the spread of disease and to find out when students should stay home from school.

Emergency Resources

Crisis Link Regional Hotline            703-527-4077

Crisis Text                                       Text NEEDHELP to 85511

Dominion Hospital Emergency       703-536-2000

INOVA Emergency                         703-289-7560

Merrifield Center Emergency         703-573-5979  TTY dial 711

Life Threatening                             911

Safety and Security Updates Safety Drills

Below is a list of safety drills that we will be practicing this school year. 

• Fire Evacuation Drills - Two within the first twenty school days, then one per month
• Lockdown Drills - Two per school year; one in the first twenty days of school (Completed for the 2023-2024 School Year) 
• Bus Evacuation Drills - Two per school year; to be held within the first thirty school days of each semester (Completed for the 2023-2024 School Year) 
• Tornado Drill  - One in the month of March. (Completed for the 2023-2024 School Year) 

Anonymous Tip Line Puts Safety First

If you or your child have concerns or information relating to feeling unsafe in any way at school, we encourage you to reach out to a member of the security or administrative team so that we may quickly address the issue.  Students and parents may also utilize the FCPS Office of Safety and Security safety tip line, that you can access anonymously online, by text (888-777; Keyword TIP FCPS), or by phone (571-423-2020).

If your tip is an emergency and immediate assistance is necessary, please dial 911.

Students, staff, and community members should report school safety issues such as threats, unsafe or dangerous situations, illegal drug activity, theft, gang activity, the existence of weapons, vandalism, and concerns about student wellness. Tip line users may identify themselves or remain anonymous.

Concerns that do not impact the safety of our schools—concerns or information about programs, regulations, or policies—can be sent to the FCPS ombudsman online, at 571-423-4014, or [email protected]. 

FCPS News

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

• Celebrating Students, Teachers, and Nurses
• Help Raise Awareness of Fentanyl
• 2025 FCPS Budget

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today. 

⏰ Community Forums on Middle School Start Times

Fairfax County Public Schools is exploring options for adjusting middle school start times and invites the public to be part of the process. Prismatic Services, Inc., an educational consulting firm, will lead the forums. All forums will deliver the same presentation and provide the same feedback opportunities. Please attend the event that works best for your schedule: 

• Monday, April 29, 6-8 p.m., at Glasgow Middle School. 
• Monday, May 6, 6-8 p.m., at Whitman Middle School.
• Monday, May 20, 6-8 p.m., at Hughes Middle School.
• Wednesday, May 22, 6-8 p.m., at Frost Middle School. 

While registration is not required, it does help with planning. Language interpretation and childcare will be provided. Learn more about the project exploring middle school start times. 

PTSA Updates

The PTSA is on Instagram, Yay!. Follow ‘oaktonhs_ptsa’ to keep abreast of what's happening at the PTSA.

The Teachers Appreciation Lunch fundraiser is on. Let's celebrate our teachers and their efforts. Click here to donate towards the event. 

Senior Award Ceremony is on June 7th. The PTSA needs parent Volunteers to deliver Crumbl Cookies and Donuts to school. Interested? Please reach us at :   [email protected] for details.

We need more hands! 

Want to be part of PTSA for the Academic year 2024-2025? Following roles are open,

1. Treasurer - Experience in Accounting and Finance required.
2. Secretary
3. Hospitality Chair 
4. Webmaster for our Website and Instagram Account.
5. All Night Grad Party (ANGP) Chair
6. Teachers Appreciation Chair
7. General Volunteers 

Students participation for following roles is encouraged. Students will receive service hours among other benefits. 

1. Student representatives of PTSA - 5 
2. Social Media Lead - 2
3. Digital Artist Lead. - 1         
4. PTSA Project Lead.

Email us at [email protected]. 

All Night Grad Party Updates!!

All information below can be found at bit.ly/ohs2024angp

Can you believe Oakton High School Graduation and All Night Grad Party (ANGP) are less than 1 month away?!! We can’t wait to celebrate the Class of 2024, their achievements, and the friendships and memories they have created over the past 4 years!

ANGP TICKETS: Don’t forget to purchase your ANGP ticket before prices increase 6/1. Free door prizes for the first 100 ticket purchasers! In addition to these free door prizes, we have lots of other fun prizes to be raffled off to the graduates, ranging from gift cards to sports gear/apparel to TVs and more!! YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS OUT!!! To purchase tickets, use this link. 

SENIOR SIGNS: We have only a few Senior Signs left!!! Get yours before they sell out like the Cougar Mugs did!! To purchase your Senior Sign, use this link: bit.ly/ohs2024angp

VOLUNTEERS: The ANGP cannot happen with the help of wonderful volunteers like you!! To volunteer, use this link.

Oakton Pantry

Thank you to the Oakton Ice Hockey Club Team for collecting such a substantial amount of the Pantry's most needed items at their end of season party! The hockey team proudly started all of the sports team drives 3 years ago and have made it an annual tradition! 

General Information 

The Oakton Pantry is available to any Oakton student or neighbor who is in need. We stock non-perishable food, personal hygiene items, and household supplies. 

For assistance: [email protected] 

Volunteer/Questions: [email protected]

Donate via PayPal

Most needed items: website

Amazon Wish List 

Parent Resources Parent Information Line 

Parents who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese can call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS and to receive support if they are having difficulty communicating with their children's schools due to a language barrier.

Parent Resource Center 

The FCPS Parent Resource Center offers a wide variety of information and resources to support the success of all students.  This includes monthly workshops and webinars.  More information can be found on the FCPS website, including registration information.  

FCPS Cares

Do you know an Oakton High School or FCPS employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way or goes beyond what is expected?  If so, then click here to share with everyone. 

2900 Sutton Road, Vienna VA 22181 | Main Office: (703) 319-2700
Attendance: (703) 319-2727 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

如果您想以其他语言阅读此新闻时讯，请访问我们的网站。

이 소식지를 다른 언어로 읽으려면, 우리 웹사이트를 방문하시기 바랍니다.

.يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى

Be sure to follow us on Twitter (@OaktonHS), and Instagram @oaktonhs ! Be sure to check out our Oakton Accolades section on our website as we celebrate student achievement!  

Important Dates 

You can access the FCPS 2023-2024 school year calendar here.   

May 6 - May 17 - AP Exams 

May 9 - Oakton Pyramid Art Show 

May 9 - May 11 - Pippin, 7pm

May 20 - Senior Internships Begin; Biology SOL

May 21 - Biology SOL 

May 27 - No School, Memorial Day 

May 31 - June 5 - Senior Final Exams (Early Release Days - 12th grade only) 

June 5-June 10 - Underclassmen Exams (Early Release Days: June 6, June 7, June 10)

June 11 - Class of 2024 Graduation, No School 

June 12 - Last Day of School - Early Release (10:10am) 

General Information End of Year Calendars and Information

All of our end of year calendars and information have been posted on the Oakton HS website.  This information can easily be accessed here or by visiting our website and viewing the announcement on the homepage.  

Attend School Every Day!

One of our School Innovation and Improvement Plan (SIIP) goals is to lower the percentage of our students who are chronically absent (Students who are absent from school more than 10% of the school year).

We have made great strides and trending to meet our goal but students need to continue attending school every day. Please continue to help us emphasize the importance of school attendance!

• Check Your Child’s Attendance: Parents can log into the Student Information System (SIS) Parent Account 
• Help your student stay engaged at school.
• Report future absences.
• Understand the FCPS school calendar.

Cougar Commendations!

It’s time for Spring 2024 Cougar Commendations.

Teachers are nominating students for their achievements towards one of the five Fairfax County Portrait of a Graduate attributes. Nominated students will be recognized at a ceremony at 10 am on Thursday 23 May. In addition, we also have Faculty/Staff Cougar Commendations to recognize OHS faculty/staff for their hard work, passion, and innovation. Parents and guardians can use this nomination form to recognize a faculty/staff member.

All nominations are due by the end of the day on Wednesday, May 15th. Faculty recipients will be recognized at our end-of-year faculty meeting. Our staff greatly appreciates the acknowledgment of their work with our students.

Please get in touch with Ms. Kambic ([email protected]) or Ms. Kuhn ([email protected]) with any questions.

🩹 Required Immunizations for Rising 7th and 12th Graders

Immunizations are required for all students entering 7th and 12th grades this fall. Visit the FCPS immunization webpage to learn about the required vaccines.  Caregivers should ask their private healthcare provider or the health department to review their student's immunization record to ensure that their student has received these required immunizations. 

It is important to schedule immunizations early in the summer, as seventh grade students must submit documentation of the Tdap and Meningococcal vaccines before they begin school in August. Twelfth grade students must submit documentation of the Meningococcal vaccine.

Get more information on all student immunization requirements.

National Fentanyl Awareness Day - May 7

Tuesday, May 7, is Fentanyl Awareness Day. Watch this video to learn more about counterfeit pills, and share the information with teens and young adults in your life. Visit the Fentanyl Awareness Day website for more resources on what you can do to help raise awareness of the dangers of fentanyl including a conversation guide and fast facts.  

FCPD Speed Cameras - Blake Lane

In early February, a school zone was established on Blake Lane with the installation of winkomatics which became operational.  Beginning today the school zone has gone live with speed camera enforcement. The school zone speed enforcement will occur while the winkomatics are on during following times:7:40 am-8:40 am, and 2:25 pm-3:25 pm.  

Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS): Parent Program

Oakton High School is partnering with our Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist, Mr. McNulty, and the Fairfax County Police Department to bring back the Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS) parent program for the second time this school year. 

Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS) is FREE and has seats available!

Join us Thursday, May 30th from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Oakton High School (Lecture Hall).  Please use Door 2 to enter.  

Register here:  https://bit.ly/hipsohs05302024

The Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS) program is an IN-PERSON interactive program for adults to be educated about the signs of risky behavior in teens and young adults. It touches on drug and alcohol use, mental health concerns, eating disorders, risky sexual behaviors and more.

The PowerPoint presentation details red flags (props will be passed around) and how they are indicative of — or used in — risky behavior. We include up to date statistics and local trends, and law enforcement officers will share their experiences they have had in our community identifying risky behavior and helping to put kids on the right path to a healthy life.  Let’s open the door to communicating with our teens!

Parking Reminder

Only students who have valid parking passes for the 23-24 school year are allowed to park on campus. Students with passes must park in areas designated for students, not in visitor or staff spots. Anyone without a pass must park off campus.  Any car without a valid parking permit parked on campus will be ticketed. All tickets must be paid before a student can receive their cap and gown for graduation. Applications for parking passes for the 24-25 school year will be available this summer. If you have any questions regarding parking passes please contact Mary Landis at [email protected]

Partners for Safe Teen Driving Presentation

All students enrolled in Classroom Driver Education during the 2023-2024 school year must attend an in-person Partners for Safe Teen Driving (PSTD). The presentation is connected to successful classroom instruction and must be completed to receive a DEC-District 8 card (pink card). The parent-teen traffic safety presentation (PSTD) will be offered multiple times during the school year at Oakton. Students and their parents/guardians should plan to attend the presentation at Oakton at your earliest convenience.  

All PSTDs begin promptly. Late admission will not be allowed. 

2023-2024 Dates:

1. Wednesday, January 31, 6:30pm in the Auditorium (Rescheduled from January 16 Snow Day)
2. Tuesday, March 19, 6:30pm in the Auditorium
3. Wednesday, May 29, 6:30pm in the Auditorium

These sessions are intended for Sophomores. Juniors and Seniors can attend a session through Adult and Community Education.

PSTD nights are not available to freshmen.

Yearbook Sales

Yearbooks and senior baby ads for the 2023-2024 school year are now on sale! You can purchase yearbook packages at www.yearbookordercenter.com using the code 4770. Standalone yearbooks are also available via MySchoolBucks. Prices start at $67 and will increase throughout the year, so buy early to save.

Don’t wait – the last two years sold out. Please note that senior baby ads are sold out at this time.  Questions? Email [email protected]

Student Services Updates  Student Services Newsletter

Greetings Oakton families!  In this month’s edition of Student Services newsletter, we highlight our Junior Parent Night Recording, Stress Less Week activities, and testing information.  Upcoming events such as NOVA’s JumpStart Program and summer school information are provided.  May is Mental Health Awareness Month; check out several resources, trainings, and webinars that Fairfax County offers our community. 

Course Registration 2024-2025 

Course selections are now locked as we begin building our master schedule for next school year.  If you have any questions, please reach out to the appropriate school counselor.  In June, we will begin taking schedule change requests for a set period of time.  At that time, changes will only be approved based on space availability and finalized course offerings.  

Testing Updates SOL Testing

SOL testing began on April 26 and will run through May 21.  Families and students received email notification regarding their testing schedule if they were slated to take an SOL this school year.  

More information on SOL's can be found on the Oakton HS website.  

AP Test Preparation for Students and Parents

The May AP Testing window for Oakton High School begins May 6th-17th. To help prepare students and parents for AP Exams we want to remind everyone where they can find important details and information. Please find the below links helpful with any questions you might have. As always if you need support or have concerns, please contact the AP Testing Coordinator Kimberly Stewart [email protected].

Oakton High School AP Testing – information regarding our testing calendar and FAQ can be found HERE

AP College Board Account Help – log in assistance and other support can be found HERE. *Oakton staff and administration can not access any student account with College Board to resolve issues*

AP Digital Exams – Oakton will administer six AP Exams digitally this year. Information for students who are testing digitally must have the Bluebook App on their school issued Chromebook. Directions can be found HERE

Digital Exams at Oakton High School 2024

• AP Computer Science Principles
• AP English Language and Composition 
• AP English Literature and Composition 
• AP European History 
• AP Seminar 
• AP U.S. History 
• AP World History: Modern

Make sure your student knows about all the free resources in AP Classroom they can use to review material, check their understanding, and get quick feedback on their areas of strength and where they need more practice. On April 22, College Board will be releasing a brand-new batch of AP Daily: Practice Sessions. These videos are focused on practicing free-response and multiple-choice questions for the AP courses that offer them. Last year’s videos are still available too. New video recordings for each course will be released on April 22. All videos will be posted on YouTube and in AP Classroom and can be watched on demand at any time.

Service Learning Senior Service Learning Hours and X2VOL

The last day for Seniors to submit Service Learning hours to X2Vol for approval was April 19th at 3pm. All Seniors must have submitted any hours prior to this date if they wish to have them approved for graduation awards and recognition. Please see the information provided below regarding graduation awards and recognition tied to Service Learning in FCPS. If you have any questions please reach out to Kimberly Stewart, our Service Learning Liaison, with your questions [email protected]. This date is for Seniors ONLY. All other underclass students may continue to submit Service Learning hours in X2VOL. Oakton High School Service Learning information can be found HERE.

Service-Learning for Graduates Service Learning Hours Cord: 40 hours 

This is separate from government.  Students can use the hours that they used for government, but they will need a total of 40 hours from the past 4 years in order to earn a service cord at graduation.

• Note to Underclassmen: Hours/Reflections will be recorded by the student on x2VOL website. 
• Note to current Seniors: You will not get the actual cord until graduation rehearsal.

Civics Seal Application: 50 hours

This is an application approved by the state of VA, and requires 50 hours of service, as well as a B average in History/Government. It will allow students to be eligible to receive a civics seal on their diploma. 

• Please talk to your Social Studies teacher for more information. 

Volunteer Fairfax

Volunteer Fairfax is a resource that can be used to find out about service-learning opportunities in the community. Service learning is a great way for students and families to engage with local nonprofits and volunteer. More information about Volunteer opportunities on this day can be found on Volunteer Fairfax’s website.

Disclaimer: Opportunities offered by organizations other than Fairfax County Public Schools are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or a specific school. These opportunities may utilize technology tools that have not been assessed by the Fairfax County Public Schools Department of Information Technology. Students should gain permission from their parent or guardian before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity and families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any technology platform that the enrichment opportunity may use before participating.

Class of 2024 Information Senior Letter 

An updated senior letter was emailed out on January 26.  That information has also been uploaded to the Oakton website and can be found here. This letter includes many updates from the September senior letter.  It also provides more information on how to pay senior dues and order a Class of 2024 t-shirt. 

Health and Wellness Updates 2023-2024 Health & Safety Guidance for Schools

Be sure to review FCPS Health and Safety Guidance for the best ways to prevent the spread of disease and to find out when students should stay home from school.

Emergency Resources

Crisis Link Regional Hotline            703-527-4077

Crisis Text                                       Text NEEDHELP to 85511

Dominion Hospital Emergency       703-536-2000

INOVA Emergency                         703-289-7560

Merrifield Center Emergency         703-573-5979  TTY dial 711

Life Threatening                             911

Safety and Security Updates Safety Drills

Below is a list of safety drills that we will be practicing this school year. 

• Fire Evacuation Drills - Two within the first twenty school days, then one per month
• Lockdown Drills - Two per school year; one in the first twenty days of school (Completed for the 2023-2024 School Year) 
• Bus Evacuation Drills - Two per school year; to be held within the first thirty school days of each semester (Completed for the 2023-2024 School Year) 
• Tornado Drill  - One in the month of March. (Completed for the 2023-2024 School Year) 

Anonymous Tip Line Puts Safety First

If you or your child have concerns or information relating to feeling unsafe in any way at school, we encourage you to reach out to a member of the security or administrative team so that we may quickly address the issue.  Students and parents may also utilize the FCPS Office of Safety and Security safety tip line, that you can access anonymously online, by text (888-777; Keyword TIP FCPS), or by phone (571-423-2020).

If your tip is an emergency and immediate assistance is necessary, please dial 911.

Students, staff, and community members should report school safety issues such as threats, unsafe or dangerous situations, illegal drug activity, theft, gang activity, the existence of weapons, vandalism, and concerns about student wellness. Tip line users may identify themselves or remain anonymous.

Concerns that do not impact the safety of our schools—concerns or information about programs, regulations, or policies—can be sent to the FCPS ombudsman online, at 571-423-4014, or [email protected]. 

FCPS News

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

• FCPS Summer Extravaganza
• Required Immunizations for Rising 7th and 12th Graders
• No-Cost Virtual Therapy for High School Students

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today. 

⏰ Community Forums on Middle School Start Times

Fairfax County Public Schools is exploring options for adjusting middle school start times and invites the public to be part of the process. Prismatic Services, Inc., an educational consulting firm, will lead the forums. All forums will deliver the same presentation and provide the same feedback opportunities. Please attend the event that works best for your schedule: 

• Monday, April 29, 6-8 p.m., at Glasgow Middle School. 
• Monday, May 6, 6-8 p.m., at Whitman Middle School.
• Monday, May 20, 6-8 p.m., at Hughes Middle School.
• Wednesday, May 22, 6-8 p.m., at Frost Middle School. 

A virtual forum will be held on Monday, May 13, 6:30-8 p.m. That registration link will be available soon.

While registration is not required, it does help with planning. Language interpretation and childcare will be provided. Learn more about the project exploring middle school start times. 

PTSA Updates

The PTSA is on Instagram, Yay!. Follow ‘oaktonhs_ptsa’ to keep abreast of what's happening at the PTSA.

The Teachers Appreciation Lunch fundraiser is on. Let's celebrate our teachers and their efforts. Click here to donate towards the event. 

Senior Award Ceremony is on June 7th. The PTSA needs parent Volunteers to deliver Crumbl Cookies and Donuts to school. Interested? Please reach us at :   [email protected] for details.

We need more hands! 

Want to be part of PTSA for the Academic year 2024-2025? Following roles are open,

1. Treasurer - Experience in Accounting and Finance required.
2. Secretary
3. Hospitality Chair 
4. Webmaster for our Website and Instagram Account.
5. All Night Grad Party (ANGP) Chair
6. Teachers Appreciation Chair
7. General Volunteers 

Students participation for following roles is encouraged. Students will receive service hours among other benefits. 

1. Student representatives of PTSA - 5 
2. Social Media Lead - 2
3. Digital Artist Lead. - 1         
4. PTSA Project Lead.

Email us at [email protected]. 

All Night Grad Party Updates!!

All information below can be found at bit.ly/ohs2024angp

TICKETS: Buy your All Night Grad Party ticket before prices increase. FREE PRIZES given to the 1st 100 ticket purchasers (prizes handed out at the ANGP check in).

In addition to these free door prizes, we have lots of other fun prizes to be raffled off to the graduates, ranging from gift cards to sports gear to TVs and more. You don’t want to miss out!!!

MUGS: We have a very limited supply of Simple Modern Cougar Treks available. These make great gifts for your graduating Cougars, teacher appreciation, or to thank your student’s counselor.

SENIOR SIGNS: We have a very limited supply of senior signs available. Celebrate your student and all their hard work with a “Class of 2024” senior sign.

VOLUNTEER: Want a preview of how the all night grad party celebrates your student’s accomplishments? Volunteer to work at the party and enjoy watching the graduates celebrate.

DONATE: Please consider donating snacks to keep our graduates nourished and hydrated throughout the ANGP, and prizes for our graduates to win!! Monetary donations to help cover ANGP costs are also welcome and greatly appreciated!!!

Oakton Pantry

A huge thank you to the baseball fans who brought over 500 donations to the Oakton-Madison and Oakton-Westfield home games!! We are so grateful for your contributions and generosity!  

We'd also like to give a shout-out to the Fairfax Wegmans store. We have been trying to source produce for our Thursday distribution for a while. One of our volunteers approached Wegmans and while they are already committed to donating to Food for Others, they did provide us with an incredibly generous gift card to help fill our needs. Thank you so much for supporting the local community!

General Information 

The Oakton Pantry is available to any Oakton student or neighbor who is in need. We stock non-perishable food, personal hygiene items, and household supplies. 

For assistance: [email protected] 

Volunteer/Questions: [email protected]

Donate via PayPal

Most needed items: website

Amazon Wish List 

Parent Resources Parent Information Line 

Parents who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese can call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS and to receive support if they are having difficulty communicating with their children's schools due to a language barrier.

Parent Resource Center 

The FCPS Parent Resource Center offers a wide variety of information and resources to support the success of all students.  This includes monthly workshops and webinars.  More information can be found on the FCPS website, including registration information.  

FCPS Cares

Do you know an Oakton High School or FCPS employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way or goes beyond what is expected?  If so, then click here to share with everyone. 

2900 Sutton Road, Vienna VA 22181 | Main Office: (703) 319-2700
Attendance: (703) 319-2727 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

如果您想以其他语言阅读此新闻时讯，请访问我们的网站。

이 소식지를 다른 언어로 읽으려면, 우리 웹사이트를 방문하시기 바랍니다.

.يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى

Be sure to follow us on Twitter (@OaktonHS), and Instagram @oaktonhs ! Be sure to check out our Oakton Accolades section on our website as we celebrate student achievement!  

Important Dates 

You can access the FCPS 2023-2024 school year calendar here.   

April 26 - May 21 - SOL Testing 

April 30 - Senior Parent Coffee - 9am (Virtual); Junior College Planning - Parent Night (Virtual)

May 2 - Opening Night of Pippin (see poster below for all show times) 

May 3 - Student Holiday, Teacher Workday 

May 4 - Pippin (2pm; 7pm) 

May 6 - May 17 - AP Exams 

May 9 - Oakton Pyramid Art Show 

May 20 - Senior Internships Begin 

General Information End of Year Calendars and Information

All of our end of year calendars and information have been posted on the Oakton HS website.  This information can easily be accessed here or by visiting our website and viewing the announcement on the homepage.  

FCPD Speed Cameras - Blake Lane

In early February, a school zone was established on Blake Lane with the installation of winkomatics which became operational.  Beginning today the school zone has gone live with speed camera enforcement. The school zone speed enforcement will occur while the winkomatics are on during following times:7:40 am-8:40 am, and 2:25 pm-3:25 pm.  

AP Proctor Parent Volunteers Needed

We are looking for parent volunteers to help with AP test proctoring! Oakton High School students will take over 3,700 AP exams over two weeks in May, and parent support will help administer them smoothly. AP Exams are the weeks of May 6 and May 13.

If you are able to give your time, we ask that you sign up online. You may proctor any exam as long as you don’t have an immediate family member taking that exam and you are not or have never been a teacher or professor in that subject.

We will make sure that those who have signed up to proctor get information prior to proctoring so you know more specific information. In short, proctors will help students find seating, help lead proctors count exams, and monitor the students as they test. In each room there will be at least one lead proctor managing the room and letting other proctors know their responsibilities.

Email AP Coordinator Kim Stewart ([email protected]) with any questions. Thank you for your help!

Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS): Parent Program

Oakton High School is partnering with our Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist, Mr. McNulty, and the Fairfax County Police Department to bring back the Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS) parent program for the second time this school year. 

Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS) is FREE and has seats available!

Join us Thursday, May 30th from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Oakton High School (Lecture Hall).  Please use Door 2 to enter.  

Register here:  https://bit.ly/hipsohs05302024

The Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS) program is an IN-PERSON interactive program for adults to be educated about the signs of risky behavior in teens and young adults. It touches on drug and alcohol use, mental health concerns, eating disorders, risky sexual behaviors and more.

The PowerPoint presentation details red flags (props will be passed around) and how they are indicative of — or used in — risky behavior. We include up to date statistics and local trends, and law enforcement officers will share their experiences they have had in our community identifying risky behavior and helping to put kids on the right path to a healthy life.  Let’s open the door to communicating with our teens!

Parking Reminder

Only students who have valid parking passes for the 23-24 school year are allowed to park on campus. Students with passes must park in areas designated for students, not in visitor or staff spots. Anyone without a pass must park off campus.  Any car without a valid parking permit parked on campus will be ticketed. All tickets must be paid before a student can receive their cap and gown for graduation. Applications for parking passes for the 24-25 school year will be available this summer. If you have any questions regarding parking passes please contact Mary Landis at [email protected]

Partners for Safe Teen Driving Presentation

All students enrolled in Classroom Driver Education during the 2023-2024 school year must attend an in-person Partners for Safe Teen Driving (PSTD). The presentation is connected to successful classroom instruction and must be completed to receive a DEC-District 8 card (pink card). The parent-teen traffic safety presentation (PSTD) will be offered multiple times during the school year at Oakton. Students and their parents/guardians should plan to attend the presentation at Oakton at your earliest convenience.  

All PSTDs begin promptly. Late admission will not be allowed. 

2023-2024 Dates:

1. Wednesday, January 31, 6:30pm in the Auditorium (Rescheduled from January 16 Snow Day)
2. Tuesday, March 19, 6:30pm in the Auditorium
3. Wednesday, May 29, 6:30pm in the Auditorium

These sessions are intended for Sophomores. Juniors and Seniors can attend a session through Adult and Community Education.

PSTD nights are not available to freshmen.

Yearbook Sales

Yearbooks and senior baby ads for the 2023-2024 school year are now on sale! You can purchase yearbook packages at www.yearbookordercenter.com using the code 4770. Standalone yearbooks are also available via MySchoolBucks. Prices start at $67 and will increase throughout the year, so buy early to save.

Don’t wait – the last two years sold out. Please note that senior baby ads are sold out at this time.  Questions? Email [email protected]

Make School Attendance a Priority

Attending school every day, even during the end of the school year, is critical to students reaching their fullest potential.

Students who attend 90% or more of the school year are more likely to graduate from high school on time.

Check Your Child’s Attendance Parents can log into the Student Information System (SIS) Parent Account 

Student Services Updates  Student Services Newsletter

Happy Spring Cougars!  Take a look at April’s newsletter to learn more about Student Services upcoming events including College and Post-Secondary Planning Events for Juniors as well as College and Career Center updates.  There are also several events outside of Oakton to explore including the Northern Virginia Regional College Fair on April 10, NOVA’s Vision, E-Summer, Jumpstart Programs, and Coursera’s Career Academy. 

Junior College Planning - Parent Night (Virtual)

Junior Parents and Guardians, please join us on Tuesday, April 30th from 6:00-7:30pm for Junior College Planning - Parent Night. Counselors will be sharing information about the college planning and search process. This will be a virtual webinar, and a link will be emailed to all Junior families a day before the webinar. We hope you are able to join us, but if not, the session will be recorded and posted on the OHS website. 

Course Registration 2024-2025 

Course selections are now locked as we begin building our master schedule for next school year.  If you have any questions, please reach out to the appropriate school counselor.  In June, we will begin taking schedule change requests for a set period of time.  At that time, changes will only be approved based on space availability and finalized course offerings.  

Testing Updates SOL Testing

SOL testing began on April 26 and will run through May 21.  Families and students received email notification regarding their testing schedule if they were slated to take an SOL this school year.  

More information on SOL's can be found on the Oakton HS website.  

AP Test Preparation for Students and Parents

The May AP Testing window for Oakton High School begins May 6th-17th. To help prepare students and parents for AP Exams we want to remind everyone where they can find important details and information. Please find the below links helpful with any questions you might have. As always if you need support or have concerns, please contact the AP Testing Coordinator Kimberly Stewart [email protected].

Oakton High School AP Testing – information regarding our testing calendar and FAQ can be found HERE

AP College Board Account Help – log in assistance and other support can be found HERE. *Oakton staff and administration can not access any student account with College Board to resolve issues*

AP Digital Exams – Oakton will administer six AP Exams digitally this year. Information for students who are testing digitally must have the Bluebook App on their school issued Chromebook. Directions can be found HERE

Digital Exams at Oakton High School 2024

• AP Computer Science Principles
• AP English Language and Composition 
• AP English Literature and Composition 
• AP European History 
• AP Seminar 
• AP U.S. History 
• AP World History: Modern

Make sure your student knows about all the free resources in AP Classroom they can use to review material, check their understanding, and get quick feedback on their areas of strength and where they need more practice. On April 22, College Board will be releasing a brand-new batch of AP Daily: Practice Sessions. These videos are focused on practicing free-response and multiple-choice questions for the AP courses that offer them. Last year’s videos are still available too. New video recordings for each course will be released on April 22. All videos will be posted on YouTube and in AP Classroom and can be watched on demand at any time.

Service Learning Senior Service Learning Hours and X2VOL

The last day for Seniors to submit Service Learning hours to X2Vol for approval was April 19th at 3pm. All Seniors must have submitted any hours prior to this date if they wish to have them approved for graduation awards and recognition. Please see the information provided below regarding graduation awards and recognition tied to Service Learning in FCPS. If you have any questions please reach out to Kimberly Stewart, our Service Learning Liaison, with your questions [email protected]. This date is for Seniors ONLY. All other underclass students may continue to submit Service Learning hours in X2VOL. Oakton High School Service Learning information can be found HERE.

Service-Learning for Graduates Service Learning Hours Cord: 40 hours 

This is separate from government.  Students can use the hours that they used for government, but they will need a total of 40 hours from the past 4 years in order to earn a service cord at graduation.

• Note to Underclassmen: Hours/Reflections will be recorded by the student on x2VOL website. 
• Note to current Seniors: You will not get the actual cord until graduation rehearsal.

Civics Seal Application: 50 hours

This is an application approved by the state of VA, and requires 50 hours of service, as well as a B average in History/Government. It will allow students to be eligible to receive a civics seal on their diploma. 

• Please talk to your Social Studies teacher for more information. 

Volunteer Fairfax

Volunteer Fairfax is a resource that can be used to find out about service-learning opportunities in the community. Service learning is a great way for students and families to engage with local nonprofits and volunteer. More information about Volunteer opportunities on this day can be found on Volunteer Fairfax’s website.

Disclaimer: Opportunities offered by organizations other than Fairfax County Public Schools are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or a specific school. These opportunities may utilize technology tools that have not been assessed by the Fairfax County Public Schools Department of Information Technology. Students should gain permission from their parent or guardian before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity and families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any technology platform that the enrichment opportunity may use before participating.

Class of 2024 Information Senior Parent Coffee - April 30 (Virtual) 

On Tuesday, April 30 at 9:00am we will host a parent coffee to review all of our end of year activities and graduation.  We will present some information and then open it up for questions.  The link will be emailed out Tuesday morning for those interested in participating.  A recording will also be posted on schoology for any families that are unable to attend, but would like to later listen to the information.  

Senior Letter 

An updated senior letter was emailed out on January 26.  That information has also been uploaded to the Oakton website and can be found here. This letter includes many updates from the September senior letter.  It also provides more information on how to pay senior dues and order a Class of 2024 t-shirt. 

Health and Wellness Updates 2023-2024 Health & Safety Guidance for Schools

Be sure to review FCPS Health and Safety Guidance for the best ways to prevent the spread of disease and to find out when students should stay home from school.

Emergency Resources

Crisis Link Regional Hotline            703-527-4077

Crisis Text                                       Text NEEDHELP to 85511

Dominion Hospital Emergency       703-536-2000

INOVA Emergency                         703-289-7560

Merrifield Center Emergency         703-573-5979  TTY dial 711

Life Threatening                             911

Safety and Security Updates Safety Drills

Below is a list of safety drills that we will be practicing this school year. 

• Fire Evacuation Drills - Two within the first twenty school days, then one per month
• Lockdown Drills - Two per school year; one in the first twenty days of school (Completed for the 2023-2024 School Year) 
• Bus Evacuation Drills - Two per school year; to be held within the first thirty school days of each semester (Completed for the 2023-2024 School Year) 
• Tornado Drill  - One in the month of March. (Completed for the 2023-2024 School Year) 

Anonymous Tip Line Puts Safety First

If you or your child have concerns or information relating to feeling unsafe in any way at school, we encourage you to reach out to a member of the security or administrative team so that we may quickly address the issue.  Students and parents may also utilize the FCPS Office of Safety and Security safety tip line, that you can access anonymously online, by text (888-777; Keyword TIP FCPS), or by phone (571-423-2020).

If your tip is an emergency and immediate assistance is necessary, please dial 911.

Students, staff, and community members should report school safety issues such as threats, unsafe or dangerous situations, illegal drug activity, theft, gang activity, the existence of weapons, vandalism, and concerns about student wellness. Tip line users may identify themselves or remain anonymous.

Concerns that do not impact the safety of our schools—concerns or information about programs, regulations, or policies—can be sent to the FCPS ombudsman online, at 571-423-4014, or [email protected]. 

FCPS News

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

• Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!
• Weigh in on School Health Services
• FCPS Shines Bright With Continued ENERGY STAR® Recognition

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving the weekly newsletter, please sign up today. 

⏰ Community Forums on Middle School Start Times

Fairfax County Public Schools is exploring options for adjusting middle school start times and invites the public to be part of the process. Prismatic Services, Inc., an educational consulting firm, will lead the forums. All forums will deliver the same presentation and provide the same feedback opportunities. Please attend the event that works best for your schedule: 

• Monday, April 29, 6-8 p.m., at Glasgow Middle School. 
• Monday, May 6, 6-8 p.m., at Whitman Middle School.
• Monday, May 20, 6-8 p.m., at Hughes Middle School.
• Wednesday, May 22, 6-8 p.m., at Frost Middle School. 

A virtual forum will be held on Monday, May 13, 6:30-8 p.m. That registration link will be available soon.

While registration is not required, it does help with planning. Language interpretation and childcare will be provided. Learn more about the project exploring middle school start times. 

🗳️ Nominations Open for the Bussey Memorial Equity Award

The Minority Student Achievement Oversight Committee (MSAOC) sponsors the Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award to honor the legacy of Dr. Bussey, a founding member of the MSAOC and a longtime advocate for students and families. Read more about Dr. Bussey. 

This award recognizes staff or community members who have demonstrated significant and impactful efforts to improve the educational experiences and outcomes of students from groups who are marginalized or underserved.

Any FCPS employee, student, or community member can nominate an individual or group for the award. All nomination materials must be submitted by Wednesday, May 1.  The winner will be recognized at the FCPS Equity Symposium on Tuesday, June 18.

Full details and the nomination information form are available on the Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award webpage. 

Social and Emotional Learning Screener Results Coming Soon

FCPS students in grades 3-12 took the Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener during March, providing updated information on skills such as achieving goals, understanding and managing emotions, establishing and maintaining relationships with adults and peers, and making responsible decisions. The SEL Screener also helps students evaluate their school community’s efforts to make them feel valued, included, and supported. 

In late April, individual student SEL Screener results will be available for families in the Documents section of SIS ParentVUE. For families who do not have an active ParentVUE account, results will be sent via postal mail. 

Get more information about the screener on the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage. For support in understanding your individual student’s results or ideas on how to support them at home, please review the Family Guide or contact your student’s counselor. 

PTSA Updates

The PTSA is on Instagram, Yay!. Follow ‘oaktonhs_ptsa’ to keep abreast of what's happening at the PTSA.

The Teachers Appreciation Lunch fundraiser is on. Let's celebrate our teachers and their efforts. Click here to donate towards the event. 

Senior Award Ceremony is on June 7th. The PTSA needs parent Volunteers to deliver Crumbl Cookies and Donuts to school. Interested? Please reach us at :   [email protected] for details.

We need more hands! 

Want to be part of PTSA for the Academic year 2024-2025? Following roles are open,

1. Treasurer - Experience in Accounting and Finance required.
2. Secretary
3. Hospitality Chair 
4. Webmaster for our Website and Instagram Account.
5. All Night Grad Party (ANGP) Chair
6. Teachers Appreciation Chair
7. General Volunteers 

Students participation for following roles is encouraged. Students will receive service hours among other benefits. 

1. Student representatives of PTSA - 5 
2. Social Media Lead - 2
3. Digital Artist Lead. - 1         
4. PTSA Project Lead.

Email us at [email protected]. 

All Night Grad Party Updates!!

All information below can be found at bit.ly/ohs2024angp

TICKETS: Buy your All Night Grad Party ticket before prices increase. FREE PRIZES given to the 1st 100 ticket purchasers (prizes handed out at the ANGP check in).

In addition to these free door prizes, we have lots of other fun prizes to be raffled off to the graduates, ranging from gift cards to sports gear to TVs and more. You don’t want to miss out!!!

MUGS: We have a very limited supply of Simple Modern Cougar Treks available. These make great gifts for your graduating Cougars, teacher appreciation, or to thank your student’s counselor.

SENIOR SIGNS: We have a very limited supply of senior signs available. Celebrate your student and all their hard work with a “Class of 2024” senior sign.

VOLUNTEER: Want a preview of how the all night grad party celebrates your student’s accomplishments? Volunteer to work at the party and enjoy watching the graduates celebrate.

DONATE: Please consider donating snacks to keep our graduates nourished and hydrated throughout the ANGP, and prizes for our graduates to win!! Monetary donations to help cover ANGP costs are also welcome and greatly appreciated!!!

Oakton Pantry

Thank you to everyone who has continued to so generously support the Pantry with donations. Many of you have asked if there are particular items that we are in need of at this time. Here are some items that are hard for us to keep in stock: family-size boxes of cereal, shelf-stable milk, cooking oil, 1 or 2 lb. bags of rice, dried beans, granola bars. Donations can be dropped off in the front office any time during school hours.

General Information 

The Oakton Pantry is available to any Oakton student or neighbor who is in need. We stock non-perishable food, personal hygiene items, and household supplies. 

For assistance: [email protected] 

Volunteer/Questions: [email protected]

Donate via PayPal

Most needed items: website

Amazon Wish List 

Parent Resources Parent Information Line 

Parents who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese can call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS and to receive support if they are having difficulty communicating with their children's schools due to a language barrier.

Parent Resource Center 

The FCPS Parent Resource Center offers a wide variety of information and resources to support the success of all students.  This includes monthly workshops and webinars.  More information can be found on the FCPS website, including registration information.  

FCPS Cares

Do you know an Oakton High School or FCPS employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way or goes beyond what is expected?  If so, then click here to share with everyone. 

2900 Sutton Road, Vienna VA 22181 | Main Office: (703) 319-2700
Attendance: (703) 319-2727 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

如果您想以其他语言阅读此新闻时讯，请访问我们的网站。

이 소식지를 다른 언어로 읽으려면, 우리 웹사이트를 방문하시기 바랍니다.

.يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى

Be sure to follow us on Twitter (@OaktonHS), and Instagram @oaktonhs ! Be sure to check out our Oakton Accolades section on our website as we celebrate student achievement!  

Important Dates 

You can access the FCPS 2023-2024 school year calendar here.   

April 22 - Evening Religious and Cultural Observance, First Evening of Passover

April 23-Evening Religious and Cultural Observance, Second Evening of Passover

April 24 - Religious and Cultural Observance Day, Theravada New Year; HBCU Fair 

April 30 - Senior Parent Coffee - 9am (Virtual); Junior College Planning - Parent Night (Virtual)

May 2 - Opening Night of Pippin (see poster below for all show times) 

May 3 - Student Holiday, Teacher Workday 

May 4 - Pippin (2pm; 7pm) 

May 9 - Oakton Pyramid Art Show 

General Information AP Proctor Parent Volunteers Needed

We are looking for parent volunteers to help with AP test proctoring! Oakton High School students will take over 3,700 AP exams over two weeks in May, and parent support will help administer them smoothly. AP Exams are the weeks of May 6 and May 13.

If you are able to give your time, we ask that you sign up online. You may proctor any exam as long as you don’t have an immediate family member taking that exam and you are not or have never been a teacher or professor in that subject.

We will make sure that those who have signed up to proctor get information prior to proctoring so you know more specific information. In short, proctors will help students find seating, help lead proctors count exams, and monitor the students as they test. In each room there will be at least one lead proctor managing the room and letting other proctors know their responsibilities.

Email AP Coordinator Kim Stewart ([email protected]) with any questions. Thank you for your help!

HBCU Fair - April 24 

Oakton High School will be hosting its first HBCU (Historical Black College & University) Fair on Wednesday, April 24th  during return periods in Oakton Hall. The event will be open to all students (9th – 12th grade). We will have representatives from a variety of schools, please see the full list below. The event is going to allow our students to connect with colleges and learn more about their higher education opportunities and admissions processes. Students will be able to sign up for this event via a google form with their confirmation email serving as their pass to the event. 

• Hampton University
• Clark Atlanta University
• North Carolina A&T
• Alabama A&M
• North Carolina Central University
• Livingstone College
• Edward Waters University
• Mississippi Valley University
• University of Maryland Eastern Shore
• Bowie State University
• Norfolk State University
• Morgan State University
• Fort Valley State University
• Tuskegee University

Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS): Parent Program

Oakton High School is partnering with our Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist, Mr. McNulty, and the Fairfax County Police Department to bring back the Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS) parent program for the second time this school year. 

Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS) is FREE and has seats available!

Join us Thursday, May 30th from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Oakton High School (Lecture Hall).  Please use Door 2 to enter.  

Register here:  https://bit.ly/hipsohs05302024

The Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS) program is an IN-PERSON interactive program for adults to be educated about the signs of risky behavior in teens and young adults. It touches on drug and alcohol use, mental health concerns, eating disorders, risky sexual behaviors and more.

The PowerPoint presentation details red flags (props will be passed around) and how they are indicative of — or used in — risky behavior. We include up to date statistics and local trends, and law enforcement officers will share their experiences they have had in our community identifying risky behavior and helping to put kids on the right path to a healthy life.  Let’s open the door to communicating with our teens!

Partners for Safe Teen Driving Presentation

All students enrolled in Classroom Driver Education during the 2023-2024 school year must attend an in-person Partners for Safe Teen Driving (PSTD). The presentation is connected to successful classroom instruction and must be completed to receive a DEC-District 8 card (pink card). The parent-teen traffic safety presentation (PSTD) will be offered multiple times during the school year at Oakton. Students and their parents/guardians should plan to attend the presentation at Oakton at your earliest convenience.  

All PSTDs begin promptly. Late admission will not be allowed. 

2023-2024 Dates:

1. Wednesday, January 31, 6:30pm in the Auditorium (Rescheduled from January 16 Snow Day)
2. Tuesday, March 19, 6:30pm in the Auditorium
3. Wednesday, May 29, 6:30pm in the Auditorium

These sessions are intended for Sophomores. Juniors and Seniors can attend a session through Adult and Community Education.

PSTD nights are not available to freshmen.

Yearbook Sales

Yearbooks and senior baby ads for the 2023-2024 school year are now on sale! You can purchase yearbook packages at www.yearbookordercenter.com using the code 4770. Standalone yearbooks are also available via MySchoolBucks. Prices start at $67 and will increase throughout the year, so buy early to save.

Don’t wait – the last two years sold out. Please note that senior baby ads are sold out at this time.  Questions? Email [email protected]

Make School Attendance a Priority

Did you know?

• Chronic absenteeism (missing 18 or more school days per year) is a primary cause of lower academic achievement even when the absences are "excused" or understandable.
• Students who attend 90% or more of the school year are more likely to graduate from high school on time.

Oakton Attendance Report Cards

• Check Your Child’s Attendance Parents can log into the Student Information System (SIS) Parent Account 
• Third quarter attendance report cards were emailed the first week of April.
• Please reach out to your student’s administrator if you have questions.  

Student Services Updates  Student Services Newsletter

Happy Spring Cougars!  Take a look at April’s newsletter to learn more about Student Services upcoming events including College and Post-Secondary Planning Events for Juniors as well as College and Career Center updates.  There are also several events outside of Oakton to explore including the Northern Virginia Regional College Fair on April 10, NOVA’s Vision, E-Summer, Jumpstart Programs, and Coursera’s Career Academy. 

Junior College Planning - Parent Night (Virtual)

Junior Parents and Guardians, please join us on Tuesday, April 30th from 6:00-7:30pm for Junior College Planning - Parent Night. Counselors will be sharing information about the college planning and search process. This will be a virtual webinar, and a link will be emailed to all Junior families a day before the webinar. We hope you are able to join us, but if not, the session will be recorded and posted on the OHS website. 

Course Registration 2024-2025 

Course selections are now locked as we begin building our master schedule for next school year.  If you have any questions, please reach out to the appropriate school counselor.  In June, we will begin taking schedule change requests for a set period of time.  At that time, changes will only be approved based on space availability and finalized course offerings.  

Testing Updates AP Test Preparation for Students and Parents

The May AP Testing window for Oakton High School begins May 6th-17th. To help prepare students and parents for AP Exams we want to remind everyone where they can find important details and information. Please find the below links helpful with any questions you might have. As always if you need support or have concerns, please contact the AP Testing Coordinator Kimberly Stewart [email protected].

Oakton High School AP Testing – information regarding our testing calendar and FAQ can be found HERE

AP College Board Account Help – log in assistance and other support can be found HERE. *Oakton staff and administration can not access any student account with College Board to resolve issues*

AP Digital Exams – Oakton will administer six AP Exams digitally this year. Information for students who are testing digitally must have the Bluebook App on their school issued Chromebook. Directions can be found HERE

Digital Exams at Oakton High School 2024

• AP Computer Science Principles
• AP English Language and Composition 
• AP English Literature and Composition 
• AP European History 
• AP Seminar 
• AP U.S. History 
• AP World History: Modern

Make sure your student knows about all the free resources in AP Classroom they can use to review material, check their understanding, and get quick feedback on their areas of strength and where they need more practice. On April 22, College Board will be releasing a brand-new batch of AP Daily: Practice Sessions. These videos are focused on practicing free-response and multiple-choice questions for the AP courses that offer them. Last year’s videos are still available too. New video recordings for each course will be released on April 22. All videos will be posted on YouTube and in AP Classroom and can be watched on demand at any time.

Service Learning Senior Service Learning Hours and X2VOL

The last day for Seniors to submit Service Learning hours to X2Vol for approval was April 19th at 3pm. All Seniors must have submitted any hours prior to this date if they wish to have them approved for graduation awards and recognition. Please see the information provided below regarding graduation awards and recognition tied to Service Learning in FCPS. If you have any questions please reach out to Kimberly Stewart, our Service Learning Liaison, with your questions [email protected]. This date is for Seniors ONLY. All other underclass students may continue to submit Service Learning hours in X2VOL. Oakton High School Service Learning information can be found HERE.

Service-Learning for Graduates Service Learning Hours Cord: 40 hours 

This is separate from government.  Students can use the hours that they used for government, but they will need a total of 40 hours from the past 4 years in order to earn a service cord at graduation.

• Note to Underclassmen: Hours/Reflections will be recorded by the student on x2VOL website. 
• Note to current Seniors: You will not get the actual cord until graduation rehearsal.

Civics Seal Application: 50 hours

This is an application approved by the state of VA, and requires 50 hours of service, as well as a B average in History/Government. It will allow students to be eligible to receive a civics seal on their diploma. 

• Please talk to your Social Studies teacher for more information. 

Volunteer Fairfax

Volunteer Fairfax is a resource that can be used to find out about service-learning opportunities in the community. Service learning is a great way for students and families to engage with local nonprofits and volunteer. More information about Volunteer opportunities on this day can be found on Volunteer Fairfax’s website.

Disclaimer: Opportunities offered by organizations other than Fairfax County Public Schools are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or a specific school. These opportunities may utilize technology tools that have not been assessed by the Fairfax County Public Schools Department of Information Technology. Students should gain permission from their parent or guardian before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity and families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any technology platform that the enrichment opportunity may use before participating.

Class of 2024 Information Senior Parent Coffee - April 30 (Virtual) 

On Tuesday, April 30 at 9:00am we will host a parent coffee to review all of our end of year activities and graduation.  We will present some information and then open it up for questions.  

Senior Letter 

An updated senior letter was emailed out on January 26.  That information has also been uploaded to the Oakton website and can be found here. This letter includes many updates from the September senior letter.  It also provides more information on how to pay senior dues and order a Class of 2024 t-shirt. 

Health and Wellness Updates 2023-2024 Health & Safety Guidance for Schools

Be sure to review FCPS Health and Safety Guidance for the best ways to prevent the spread of disease and to find out when students should stay home from school.

Emergency Resources

Crisis Link Regional Hotline            703-527-4077

Crisis Text                                       Text NEEDHELP to 85511

Dominion Hospital Emergency       703-536-2000

INOVA Emergency                         703-289-7560

Merrifield Center Emergency         703-573-5979  TTY dial 711

Life Threatening                             911

Safety and Security Updates Safety Drills

Below is a list of safety drills that we will be practicing this school year. 

• Fire Evacuation Drills - Two within the first twenty school days, then one per month
• Lockdown Drills - Two per school year; one in the first twenty days of school (Completed for the 2023-2024 School Year) 
• Bus Evacuation Drills - Two per school year; to be held within the first thirty school days of each semester (Completed for the 2023-2024 School Year) 
• Tornado Drill  - One in the month of March. (Completed for the 2023-2024 School Year) 

Anonymous Tip Line Puts Safety First

If you or your child have concerns or information relating to feeling unsafe in any way at school, we encourage you to reach out to a member of the security or administrative team so that we may quickly address the issue.  Students and parents may also utilize the FCPS Office of Safety and Security safety tip line, that you can access anonymously online, by text (888-777; Keyword TIP FCPS), or by phone (571-423-2020).

If your tip is an emergency and immediate assistance is necessary, please dial 911.

Students, staff, and community members should report school safety issues such as threats, unsafe or dangerous situations, illegal drug activity, theft, gang activity, the existence of weapons, vandalism, and concerns about student wellness. Tip line users may identify themselves or remain anonymous.

Concerns that do not impact the safety of our schools—concerns or information about programs, regulations, or policies—can be sent to the FCPS ombudsman online, at 571-423-4014, or [email protected]. 

FCPS News

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

• Spring Assessments
• Family Conference
• Community Forums on Middle School Start Times

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving the weekly newsletter, please sign up today. 

⏰ Community Forums on Middle School Start Times

Fairfax County Public Schools is exploring options for adjusting middle school start times and invites the public to be part of the process. Prismatic Services, Inc., an educational consulting firm, will lead the forums. All forums will deliver the same presentation and provide the same feedback opportunities. Please attend the event that works best for your schedule: 

• Monday, April 29, 6-8 p.m., at Glasgow Middle School. 
• Monday, May 6, 6-8 p.m., at Whitman Middle School.
• Monday, May 20, 6-8 p.m., at Hughes Middle School.
• Wednesday, May 22, 6-8 p.m., at Frost Middle School. 

A virtual forum will be held on Monday, May 13, 6:30-8 p.m. That registration link will be available soon.

While registration is not required, it does help with planning. Language interpretation and childcare will be provided. Learn more about the project exploring middle school start times. 

🗳️ Nominations Open for the Bussey Memorial Equity Award

The Minority Student Achievement Oversight Committee (MSAOC) sponsors the Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award to honor the legacy of Dr. Bussey, a founding member of the MSAOC and a longtime advocate for students and families. Read more about Dr. Bussey. 

This award recognizes staff or community members who have demonstrated significant and impactful efforts to improve the educational experiences and outcomes of students from groups who are marginalized or underserved.

Any FCPS employee, student, or community member can nominate an individual or group for the award. All nomination materials must be submitted by Wednesday, May 1.  The winner will be recognized at the FCPS Equity Symposium on Tuesday, June 18.

Full details and the nomination information form are available on the Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award webpage. 

Social and Emotional Learning Screener Results Coming Soon

FCPS students in grades 3-12 took the Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener during March, providing updated information on skills such as achieving goals, understanding and managing emotions, establishing and maintaining relationships with adults and peers, and making responsible decisions. The SEL Screener also helps students evaluate their school community’s efforts to make them feel valued, included, and supported. 

In late April, individual student SEL Screener results will be available for families in the Documents section of SIS ParentVUE. For families who do not have an active ParentVUE account, results will be sent via postal mail. 

Get more information about the screener on the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage. For support in understanding your individual student’s results or ideas on how to support them at home, please review the Family Guide or contact your student’s counselor. 

PTSA Updates

A BIG 'THANK YOU!' dear parents for your donations for the Teachers Breakfast! It was a resounding success, and you made their day! 

The PTSA is on Instagram, Yay!. Follow ‘oaktonhs_ptsa’ to keep abreast of what's happening at the PTSA.

The Teachers Appreciation Lunch fundraiser is on. Let's celebrate our teachers and their efforts. Click here to donate towards the event. 

Want to be part of PTSA?  Email at [email protected]. We need more hands!

All Night Grad Party Updates!!

All information below can be found at bit.ly/ohs2024angp

TICKETS: Buy your All Night Grad Party ticket before prices increase. FREE PRIZES given to the 1st 100 ticket purchasers (prizes handed out at the ANGP check in).

In addition to these free door prizes, we have lots of other fun prizes to be raffled off to the graduates, ranging from gift cards to sports gear to TVs and more. You don’t want to miss out!!!

MUGS: We have a very limited supply of Simple Modern Cougar Treks available. These make great gifts for your graduating Cougars, teacher appreciation, or to thank your student’s counselor.

SENIOR SIGNS: We have a very limited supply of senior signs available. Celebrate your student and all their hard work with a “Class of 2024” senior sign.

VOLUNTEER: Want a preview of how the all night grad party celebrates your student’s accomplishments? Volunteer to work at the party and enjoy watching the graduates celebrate.

DONATE: Please consider donating snacks to keep our graduates nourished and hydrated throughout the ANGP, and prizes for our graduates to win!! Monetary donations to help cover ANGP costs are also welcome and greatly appreciated!!!

Oakton Pantry

Thank you to everyone who has continued to so generously support the Pantry with donations. Many of you have asked if there are particular items that we are in need of at this time. Here are some items that are hard for us to keep in stock: family-size boxes of cereal, shelf-stable milk, cooking oil, 1 or 2 lb bags of rice, dried beans, granola bars. Donations can be dropped off in the front office any time during school hours.

Thank you!

General Information 

The Oakton Pantry is available to any Oakton student or neighbor who is in need. We stock non-perishable food, personal hygiene items, and household supplies. 

For assistance: [email protected] 

Volunteer/Questions: [email protected]

Donate via PayPal

Most needed items: website

Amazon Wish List 

Parent Resources Parent Information Line 

Parents who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese can call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS and to receive support if they are having difficulty communicating with their children's schools due to a language barrier.

Parent Resource Center 

The FCPS Parent Resource Center offers a wide variety of information and resources to support the success of all students.  This includes monthly workshops and webinars.  More information can be found on the FCPS website, including registration information.  

FCPS Cares

Do you know an Oakton High School or FCPS employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way or goes beyond what is expected?  If so, then click here to share with everyone. 

2900 Sutton Road, Vienna VA 22181 | Main Office: (703) 319-2700
Attendance: (703) 319-2727 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

如果您想以其他语言阅读此新闻时讯，请访问我们的网站。

이 소식지를 다른 언어로 읽으려면, 우리 웹사이트를 방문하시기 바랍니다.

.يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى

Be sure to follow us on Twitter (@OaktonHS), and Instagram @oaktonhs ! Be sure to check out our Oakton Accolades section on our website as we celebrate student achievement!  

Important Dates 

You can access the FCPS 2023-2024 school year calendar here.   

April 22 - Evening Religious and Cultural Observance, First Evening of Passover

April 23-Evening Religious and Cultural Observance, Second Evening of Passover

April 24 - Religious and Cultural Observance Day, Theravada New Year; HBCU Fair 

April 30 - Junior College Planning - Parent Night (Virtual)

May 2 - Opening Night of Pippin (see poster below for all show times) 

May 3 - Student Holiday, Teacher Workday 

May 9 - Oakton Pyramid Art Show 

General Information AP Proctor Parent Volunteers Needed

We are looking for parent volunteers to help with AP test proctoring! Oakton High School students will take over 3,700 AP exams over two weeks in May, and parent support will help administer them smoothly. AP Exams are the weeks of May 6 and May 13.

If you are able to give your time, we ask that you sign up online. You may proctor any exam as long as you don’t have an immediate family member taking that exam and you are not or have never been a teacher or professor in that subject.

We will make sure that those who have signed up to proctor get information prior to proctoring so you know more specific information. In short, proctors will help students find seating, help lead proctors count exams, and monitor the students as they test. In each room there will be at least one lead proctor managing the room and letting other proctors know their responsibilities.

Email AP Coordinator Kim Stewart ([email protected]) with any questions. Thank you for your help!

HBCU College Fair 

Oakton High School will be hosting its first HBCU (Historically Black Colleges & Universities) fair on Wednesday, April 24th  during return periods in Oakton Hall. The event will be open to all students (9th – 12th grade). We will have representatives from a variety of schools, please see the full list below. The event is going to allow our students to connect with colleges and learn more about their higher education opportunities and admissions processes. Students will be able to sign up for this event via a google form with their confirmation email serving as their pass to the event. 

• Hampton University
• Clark Atlanta University
• North Carolina A&T
• Alabama A&M
• North Carolina Central University
• Livingstone College
• Edward Waters University
• Mississippi Valley University
• University of Maryland Eastern Shore
• Bowie State University
• Norfolk State University
• Morgan State University
• Fort Valley State University
• Tuskegee University

Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS): Parent Program

Oakton High School is partnering with our Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist, Mr. McNulty, and the Fairfax County Police Department to bring back the Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS) parent program for the second time this school year. 

Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS) is FREE and has seats available!

Join us Thursday, May 30th from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Oakton High School (Lecture Hall).  Please use Door 2 to enter.  

Register here:  https://bit.ly/hipsohs05302024

The Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS) program is an IN-PERSON interactive program for adults to be educated about the signs of risky behavior in teens and young adults. It touches on drug and alcohol use, mental health concerns, eating disorders, risky sexual behaviors and more.

The PowerPoint presentation details red flags (props will be passed around) and how they are indicative of — or used in — risky behavior. We include up to date statistics and local trends, and law enforcement officers will share their experiences they have had in our community identifying risky behavior and helping to put kids on the right path to a healthy life.  Let’s open the door to communicating with our teens!

Partners for Safe Teen Driving Presentation

All students enrolled in Classroom Driver Education during the 2023-2024 school year must attend an in-person Partners for Safe Teen Driving (PSTD). The presentation is connected to successful classroom instruction and must be completed to receive a DEC-District 8 card (pink card). The parent-teen traffic safety presentation (PSTD) will be offered multiple times during the school year at Oakton. Students and their parents/guardians should plan to attend the presentation at Oakton at your earliest convenience.  

All PSTDs begin promptly. Late admission will not be allowed. 

2023-2024 Dates:

1. Wednesday, January 31, 6:30pm in the Auditorium (Rescheduled from January 16 Snow Day)
2. Tuesday, March 19, 6:30pm in the Auditorium
3. Wednesday, May 29, 6:30pm in the Auditorium

These sessions are intended for Sophomores. Juniors and Seniors can attend a session through Adult and Community Education.

PSTD nights are not available to freshmen.

Yearbook Sales

Yearbooks and senior baby ads for the 2023-2024 school year are now on sale! You can purchase yearbook packages at www.yearbookordercenter.com using the code 4770. Standalone yearbooks are also available via MySchoolBucks. Prices start at $67 and will increase throughout the year, so buy early to save.

Don’t wait – the last two years sold out. Please note that senior baby ads are sold out at this time.  Questions? Email [email protected]

Student Services Updates  Student Services Newsletter

Happy Spring Cougars!  Take a look at April’s newsletter to learn more about Student Services upcoming events including College and Post-Secondary Planning Events for Juniors as well as College and Career Center updates.  There are also several events outside of Oakton to explore including the Northern Virginia Regional College Fair on April 10, NOVA’s Vision, E-Summer, Jumpstart Programs, and Coursera’s Career Academy. 

Junior College Planning - Parent Night (Virtual)

Junior Parents and Guardians, please join us on Tuesday, April 30th from 6:00-7:30pm for Junior College Planning - Parent Night. Counselors will be sharing information about the college planning and search process. This will be a virtual webinar, and a link will be emailed to all Junior families a day before the webinar. We hope you are able to join us, but if not, the session will be recorded and posted on the OHS website. 

Course Registration 2024-2025 

Course selections are now locked as we begin building our master schedule for next school year.  If you have any questions, please reach out to the appropriate school counselor.  In June, we will begin taking schedule change requests for a set period of time.  At that time, changes will only be approved based on space availability and finalized course offerings.  

Testing Updates AP Test Preparation for Students and Parents

The May AP Testing window for Oakton High School begins May 6th-17th. To help prepare students and parents for AP Exams we want to remind everyone where they can find important details and information. Please find the below links helpful with any questions you might have. As always if you need support or have concerns, please contact the AP Testing Coordinator Kimberly Stewart [email protected].

Oakton High School AP Testing – information regarding our testing calendar and FAQ can be found HERE

AP College Board Account Help – log in assistance and other support can be found HERE. *Oakton staff and administration can not access any student account with College Board to resolve issues*

AP Digital Exams – Oakton will administer six AP Exams digitally this year. Information for students who are testing digitally must have the Bluebook App on their school issued Chromebook. Directions can be found HERE

Digital Exams at Oakton High School 2024

• AP Computer Science Principles
• AP English Language and Composition 
• AP English Literature and Composition 
• AP European History 
• AP Seminar 
• AP U.S. History 
• AP World History: Modern

Make sure your student knows about all the free resources in AP Classroom they can use to review material, check their understanding, and get quick feedback on their areas of strength and where they need more practice. On April 22, College Board will be releasing a brand-new batch of AP Daily: Practice Sessions. These videos are focused on practicing free-response and multiple-choice questions for the AP courses that offer them. Last year’s videos are still available too. New video recordings for each course will be released on April 22. All videos will be posted on YouTube and in AP Classroom and can be watched on demand at any time.

Service Learning Senior Service Learning Hours and X2VOL

The last day for Seniors to submit Service Learning hours to X2Vol for approval will be April 19th at 3pm. All Seniors must have submitted any hours prior to this date if they wish to have them approved for graduation awards and recognition. Please see the information provided below regarding graduation awards and recognition tied to Service Learning in FCPS. If you have any questions please reach out to Kimberly Stewart, our Service Learning Liaison, with your questions [email protected]. This date is for Seniors ONLY. All other underclass students may continue to submit Service Learning hours in X2VOL. Oakton High School Service Learning information can be found HERE.

Service-Learning for Graduates Service Learning Hours Cord: 40 hours 

This is separate from government.  Students can use the hours that they used for government, but they will need a total of 40 hours from the past 4 years in order to earn a service cord at graduation.

• Note to Underclassmen: Hours/Reflections will be recorded by the student on x2VOL website. 
• Note to current Seniors: You will not get the actual cord until graduation rehearsal.

Civics Seal Application: 50 hours

This is an application approved by the state of VA, and requires 50 hours of service, as well as a B average in History/Government. It will allow students to be eligible to receive a civics seal on their diploma. 

• Please talk to your Social Studies teacher for more information. 

Volunteer Fairfax

Volunteer Fairfax is a resource that can be used to find out about service-learning opportunities in the community. Service learning is a great way for students and families to engage with local nonprofits and volunteer. More information about Volunteer opportunities on this day can be found on Volunteer Fairfax’s website.

Disclaimer: Opportunities offered by organizations other than Fairfax County Public Schools are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or a specific school. These opportunities may utilize technology tools that have not been assessed by the Fairfax County Public Schools Department of Information Technology. Students should gain permission from their parent or guardian before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity and families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any technology platform that the enrichment opportunity may use before participating.

Class of 2024 Information Senior Letter 

An updated senior letter was emailed out on January 26.  That information has also been uploaded to the Oakton website and can be found here. This letter includes many updates from the September senior letter.  It also provides more information on how to pay senior dues and order a Class of 2024 t-shirt. 

Health and Wellness Updates 2023-2024 Health & Safety Guidance for Schools

Be sure to review FCPS Health and Safety Guidance for the best ways to prevent the spread of disease and to find out when students should stay home from school.

Emergency Resources

Crisis Link Regional Hotline            703-527-4077

Crisis Text                                       Text NEEDHELP to 85511

Dominion Hospital Emergency       703-536-2000

INOVA Emergency                         703-289-7560

Merrifield Center Emergency         703-573-5979  TTY dial 711

Life Threatening                             911

Safety and Security Updates Safety Drills

Below is a list of safety drills that we will be practicing this school year. 

• Fire Evacuation Drills - Two within the first twenty school days, then one per month
• Lockdown Drills - Two per school year; one in the first twenty days of school (Completed for the 2023-2024 School Year) 
• Bus Evacuation Drills - Two per school year; to be held within the first thirty school days of each semester (Completed for the 2023-2024 School Year) 
• Tornado Drill  - One in the month of March. (Completed for the 2023-2024 School Year) 

Anonymous Tip Line Puts Safety First

If you or your child have concerns or information relating to feeling unsafe in any way at school, we encourage you to reach out to a member of the security or administrative team so that we may quickly address the issue.  Students and parents may also utilize the FCPS Office of Safety and Security safety tip line, that you can access anonymously online, by text (888-777; Keyword TIP FCPS), or by phone (571-423-2020).

If your tip is an emergency and immediate assistance is necessary, please dial 911.

Students, staff, and community members should report school safety issues such as threats, unsafe or dangerous situations, illegal drug activity, theft, gang activity, the existence of weapons, vandalism, and concerns about student wellness. Tip line users may identify themselves or remain anonymous.

Concerns that do not impact the safety of our schools—concerns or information about programs, regulations, or policies—can be sent to the FCPS ombudsman online, at 571-423-4014, or [email protected]. 

FCPS News

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

• Month of the Military Child
• Register for the FCPS Family Summit
• Teaching Real-World Math Skills

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving the weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

Safe, Supported, and Included — the FCPS Family Summit 2024

The FCPS Family Summit will take place on Saturday, April 20, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Marshall High School. The conference will cover topics that are helpful for all families, such as social-emotional resources, along with a specially curated online component to provide supports for students with disabilities and their families. 

Some of the topics include raising resilient, independent children; forming meaningful connections with children; addressing big emotions; and the dangers of opioids and fentanyl. The conference is being planned by several FCPS offices in collaboration with the Fairfax Alliance of Black School Educators, Black Women’s Educational Alliance - DC Chapter, Hispanic Educators Association, and Asian Educators Association. 

This year’s theme is Safe, Supported, and Included, which aligns with Goal 2 of the FCPS Strategic Plan. More details will be available after spring break. 

⏰ Community Forums on Middle School Start Times

Fairfax County Public Schools is exploring options for adjusting middle school start times and invites the public to be part of the process. Prismatic Services, Inc., an educational consulting firm, will lead the forums. All forums will deliver the same presentation and provide the same feedback opportunities. Please attend the event that works best for your schedule: 

• Monday, April 29, 6-8 p.m., at Glasgow Middle School. 
• Monday, May 6, 6-8 p.m., at Whitman Middle School.
• Monday, May 20, 6-8 p.m., at Hughes Middle School.
• Wednesday, May 22, 6-8 p.m., at Frost Middle School. 

Registration is not required but does help with planning. Click one of the dates above to register. Language interpretation and childcare will be provided. Learn more about the project exploring middle school start times. 

🗳️ Nominations Open for the Bussey Memorial Equity Award

The Minority Student Achievement Oversight Committee (MSAOC) sponsors the Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award to honor the legacy of Dr. Bussey, a founding member of the MSAOC and a longtime advocate for students and families. Read more about Dr. Bussey. 

This award recognizes staff or community members who have demonstrated significant and impactful efforts to improve the educational experiences and outcomes of students from groups who are marginalized or underserved.

Any FCPS employee, student, or community member can nominate an individual or group for the award. All nomination materials must be submitted by Wednesday, May 1.  The winner will be recognized at the FCPS Equity Symposium on Tuesday, June 18.

Full details and the nomination information form are available on the Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award webpage. 

PTSA Updates

The PTSA is on Instagram, Yay!. Follow ‘oaktonhs_ptsa’ to keep abreast of what's happening at the PTSA.

The Teachers Appreciation Lunch fundraiser is on. Let's celebrate our teachers and their efforts. Click here to donate towards the event. 

Want to be part of PTSA?  Email at [email protected]. We need more hands!

Our Mini grant finalists are about to be declared. Keep an eye out of that!

 

All Night Grad Party Update!!

It's hard to believe graduation is only a few months away! We can’t wait to celebrate the Class of 2024, their achievements, and the friendships and memories they have created over the past 4 years!

Every year the PTSA sponsors an All Night Grad Party (ANGP). The purpose of the ANGP is to give seniors a safe, alcohol-free and drug-free way to celebrate the night of their graduation.

This year's ANGP will be held at Launch Trampoline Park in Herndon (Franklin Farm Shopping Center) on Tuesday, June 11 from 9 PM - 2 AM. In addition to the trampolines, the kids will enjoy go-karts, dodge ball, an agility course, arcade games, casino games, great prizes, food, and more. 

ANGP TICKETS ARE NOW ON SALE!!!! Please click here to purchase:  PTBoard.com

For all your other ANGP needs, including purchasing an OHS Senior Yard sign, Simple Modern Cougar Trek, to make a monetary donation, to donate raffle prizes, to donate food and drinks for the ANGP, and/or volunteer at the ANGP:  PTBoard.com

First day back after spring break make dinner easy and stop at the Oakton Chipotle from 4-8pm to support the OHS All Night Grad Party!!!!

Buy/Donate/Volunteer at ANGP Store!

Questions? Please email: [email protected]

Oakton Pantry General Information 

The Oakton Pantry is available to any Oakton student or neighbor who is in need. We stock non-perishable food, personal hygiene items, and household supplies. 

For assistance: [email protected] 

Volunteer/Questions: [email protected]

Donate via PayPal

Most needed items: website

Amazon Wish List 

Parent Resources Parent Information Line 

Parents who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese can call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS and to receive support if they are having difficulty communicating with their children's schools due to a language barrier.

Parent Resource Center 

The FCPS Parent Resource Center offers a wide variety of information and resources to support the success of all students.  This includes monthly workshops and webinars.  More information can be found on the FCPS website, including registration information.  

FCPS Cares

Do you know an Oakton High School or FCPS employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way or goes beyond what is expected?  If so, then click here to share with everyone. 

2900 Sutton Road, Vienna VA 22181 | Main Office: (703) 319-2700
Attendance: (703) 319-2727 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

如果您想以其他语言阅读此新闻时讯，请访问我们的网站。

이 소식지를 다른 언어로 읽으려면, 우리 웹사이트를 방문하시기 바랍니다.

.يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى

Be sure to follow us on Twitter (@OaktonHS), and Instagram @oaktonhs ! Be sure to check out our Oakton Accolades section on our website as we celebrate student achievement!  

Important Dates 

You can access the FCPS 2023-2024 school year calendar here.   

April 9 - Evening Religious and Cultural Observance, Eid al Fitr

April 10 - No School, Eid al Fitr

April 12 - Junior/Senior Prom 

April 22 - Evening Religious and Cultural Observance, First Evening of Passover

April 23-Evening Religious and Cultural Observance, Second Evening of Passover

April 24 - Religious and Cultural Observance Day, Theravada New Year; HBCU Fair 

April 30 - Junior College Planning - Parent Night (Virtual)

General Information Prom - April 12, 2024

All juniors and seniors are invited to this year's "Old Hollywood" themed prom on Friday, April 12, 2024 from 8-11pm at the Westwood Country Club.  Tickets are available online via MySchoolBucks.  Tickets sold between March 18-April 7 will cost $50.  Tickets sold between April 8 and April 11 will cost $60.  Tickets will not be sold on April 12 at school or at the door of the event.  Guest forms, for those that do not attend Oakton High School, should be picked up and turned in to Mr. McCulla in room 2514.  

Attendance Report Cards

All students and parents should have received an attendance report card last Friday, April 5th. 

This attendance report card contains information related to each student's current chronic absenteeism standing and includes the percentage of the school year missed (total days of school/days missed) and the number of full-day absences. 

Students are categorized into three levels.

• Chronically absent (Missing more than 10% of the school year) 
• At Risk (Currently missing 8-10%)
• Not At Risk (Less than 8%) 

Reducing chronic absenteeism is a tenet of our current School Improvement and Innovation Plan (SIIP). Our goal this year is to reduce our chronic absenteeism rate by 5% to 15% or less. We are currently at a 15% rate. While absenteeism does not directly affect a student’s ability to graduate, it can limit learning, create social anxiety, and hinder achievement. We also understand that there are good reasons for missing school (Illness). 

Students and families will receive an attendance report card at the end of each quarter. 

Additional Resources

Fairfax County Public Schools Attendance Policies

https://www.fcps.edu/about-fcps/policies-regulations-and-notices/attendance-policies

Attendance Works

https://www.attendanceworks.org/resources/handouts-for-families-2/

Partners for Safe Teen Driving Presentation

All students enrolled in Classroom Driver Education during the 2023-2024 school year must attend an in-person Partners for Safe Teen Driving (PSTD). The presentation is connected to successful classroom instruction and must be completed to receive a DEC-District 8 card (pink card). The parent-teen traffic safety presentation (PSTD) will be offered multiple times during the school year at Oakton. Students and their parents/guardians should plan to attend the presentation at Oakton at your earliest convenience.  

All PSTDs begin promptly. Late admission will not be allowed. 

2023-2024 Dates:

1. Wednesday, January 31, 6:30pm in the Auditorium (Rescheduled from January 16 Snow Day)
2. Tuesday, March 19, 6:30pm in the Auditorium
3. Wednesday, May 29, 6:30pm in the Auditorium

These sessions are intended for Sophomores. Juniors and Seniors can attend a session through Adult and Community Education.

PSTD nights are not available to freshmen.

Yearbook Sales

Yearbooks and senior baby ads for the 2023-2024 school year are now on sale! You can purchase yearbook packages at www.yearbookordercenter.com using the code 4770. Standalone yearbooks are also available via MySchoolBucks. Prices start at $67 and will increase throughout the year, so buy early to save.

Don’t wait – the last two years sold out. Please note that senior baby ads are sold out at this time.  Questions? Email [email protected]

Student Services Updates  Student Services Newsletter

Happy Spring Cougars!  Take a look at April’s newsletter to learn more about Student Services upcoming events including College and Post-Secondary Planning Events for Juniors as well as College and Career Center updates.  There are also several events outside of Oakton to explore including the Northern Virginia Regional College Fair on April 10, NOVA’s Vision, E-Summer, Jumpstart Programs, and Coursera’s Career Academy. 

Junior College Planning - Parent Night (Virtual)

Junior Parents and Guardians, please join us on Tuesday, April 30th from 6:00-7:30pm for Junior College Planning - Parent Night. Counselors will be sharing information about the college planning and search process. This will be a virtual webinar, and a link will be emailed to all Junior families a day before the webinar. We hope you are able to join us, but if not, the session will be recorded and posted on the OHS website. 

Course Registration 2024-2025 

Course selections are now locked as we begin building our master schedule for next school year.  If you have any questions, please reach out to the appropriate school counselor.  In June, we will begin taking schedule change requests for a set period of time.  At that time, changes will only be approved based on space availability and finalized course offerings.  

Service Learning Senior Service Learning Hours and X2VOL

The last day for Seniors to submit Service Learning hours to X2Vol for approval will be April 19th at 3pm. All Seniors must have submitted any hours prior to this date if they wish to have them approved for graduation awards and recognition. Please see the information provided below regarding graduation awards and recognition tied to Service Learning in FCPS. If you have any questions please reach out to Kimberly Stewart, our Service Learning Liaison, with your questions [email protected]. This date is for Seniors ONLY. All other underclass students may continue to submit Service Learning hours in X2VOL. Oakton High School Service Learning information can be found HERE.

Service-Learning for Graduates Service Learning Hours Cord: 40 hours 

This is separate from government.  Students can use the hours that they used for government, but they will need a total of 40 hours from the past 4 years in order to earn a service cord at graduation.

• Note to Underclassmen: Hours/Reflections will be recorded by the student on x2VOL website. 
• Note to current Seniors: You will not get the actual cord until graduation rehearsal.

Civics Seal Application: 50 hours

This is an application approved by the state of VA, and requires 50 hours of service, as well as a B average in History/Government. It will allow students to be eligible to receive a civics seal on their diploma. 

• Please talk to your Social Studies teacher for more information. 

Volunteer Fairfax

Volunteer Fairfax is a resource that can be used to find out about service-learning opportunities in the community. Service learning is a great way for students and families to engage with local nonprofits and volunteer. More information about Volunteer opportunities on this day can be found on Volunteer Fairfax’s website.

Disclaimer: Opportunities offered by organizations other than Fairfax County Public Schools are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or a specific school. These opportunities may utilize technology tools that have not been assessed by the Fairfax County Public Schools Department of Information Technology. Students should gain permission from their parent or guardian before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity and families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any technology platform that the enrichment opportunity may use before participating.

Class of 2024 Information Senior Letter 

An updated senior letter was emailed out on January 26.  That information has also been uploaded to the Oakton website and can be found here. This letter includes many updates from the September senior letter.  It also provides more information on how to pay senior dues and order a Class of 2024 t-shirt. 

Health and Wellness Updates 🤧 Updated COVID Recommendations

In accordance with the updated Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) respiratory virus guidance, FCPS and the Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD) have updated school COVID-19 recommendations.

The COVID-19 isolation period of five days is no longer recommended. 

New respiratory virus guidance applies to respiratory viral illnesses, including COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Students who have symptoms of, test positive for, or have been diagnosed with a respiratory virus may return to school when the student is fever-free for 24 hours without fever reducing medication; AND the student’s symptoms have improved or resolved. 

Students should follow additional precautions as outlined per the CDC upon resumption of normal activities. 

Should I Send My Child to School?

Please refer to the chart on this attendance webpage if your child is experiencing symptoms or illnesses, and you are unsure if they should go to school. 

Thank you for helping keep our students and staff healthy.

2023-2024 Health & Safety Guidance for Schools

Be sure to review FCPS Health and Safety Guidance for the best ways to prevent the spread of disease and to find out when students should stay home from school.

Emergency Resources

Crisis Link Regional Hotline            703-527-4077

Crisis Text                                       Text NEEDHELP to 85511

Dominion Hospital Emergency       703-536-2000

INOVA Emergency                         703-289-7560

Merrifield Center Emergency         703-573-5979  TTY dial 711

Life Threatening                             911

Safety and Security Updates Safety Drills

Below is a list of safety drills that we will be practicing this school year. 

• Fire Evacuation Drills - Two within the first twenty school days, then one per month
• Lockdown Drills - Two per school year; one in the first twenty days of school (Completed for the 2023-2024 School Year) 
• Bus Evacuation Drills - Two per school year; to be held within the first thirty school days of each semester (Completed for the 2023-2024 School Year) 
• Tornado Drill  - One in the month of March. (Completed for the 2023-2024 School Year) 

Anonymous Tip Line Puts Safety First

If you or your child have concerns or information relating to feeling unsafe in any way at school, we encourage you to reach out to a member of the security or administrative team so that we may quickly address the issue.  Students and parents may also utilize the FCPS Office of Safety and Security safety tip line, that you can access anonymously online, by text (888-777; Keyword TIP FCPS), or by phone (571-423-2020).

If your tip is an emergency and immediate assistance is necessary, please dial 911.

Students, staff, and community members should report school safety issues such as threats, unsafe or dangerous situations, illegal drug activity, theft, gang activity, the existence of weapons, vandalism, and concerns about student wellness. Tip line users may identify themselves or remain anonymous.

Concerns that do not impact the safety of our schools—concerns or information about programs, regulations, or policies—can be sent to the FCPS ombudsman online, at 571-423-4014, or [email protected]. 

FCPS News

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

• Month of the Military Child
• Register for the FCPS Family Summit
• Teaching Real-World Math Skills

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving the weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

Safe, Supported, and Included — the FCPS Family Summit 2024

The FCPS Family Summit will take place on Saturday, April 20, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Marshall High School. The conference will cover topics that are helpful for all families, such as social-emotional resources, along with a specially curated online component to provide supports for students with disabilities and their families. 

Some of the topics include raising resilient, independent children; forming meaningful connections with children; addressing big emotions; and the dangers of opioids and fentanyl. The conference is being planned by several FCPS offices in collaboration with the Fairfax Alliance of Black School Educators, Black Women’s Educational Alliance - DC Chapter, Hispanic Educators Association, and Asian Educators Association. 

This year’s theme is Safe, Supported, and Included, which aligns with Goal 2 of the FCPS Strategic Plan. More details will be available after spring break. 

⏰ Community Forums on Middle School Start Times

Fairfax County Public Schools is exploring options for adjusting middle school start times and invites the public to be part of the process. Prismatic Services, Inc., an educational consulting firm, will lead the forums. All forums will deliver the same presentation and provide the same feedback opportunities. Please attend the event that works best for your schedule: 

• Monday, April 29, 6-8 p.m., at Glasgow Middle School. 
• Monday, May 6, 6-8 p.m., at Whitman Middle School.
• Monday, May 20, 6-8 p.m., at Hughes Middle School.
• Wednesday, May 22, 6-8 p.m., at Frost Middle School. 

Registration is not required but does help with planning. Click one of the dates above to register. Language interpretation and childcare will be provided. Learn more about the project exploring middle school start times. 

PTSA Updates

The PTSA is on Instagram, Yay!. Follow ‘oaktonhs_ptsa’ to keep abreast of what's happening at the PTSA.

The Teachers Appreciation Lunch fundraiser is on. Let's celebrate our teachers and their efforts. Click here to donate towards the event. 

Want to be part of PTSA?  Email at [email protected]. We need more hands!

Our Mini grant finalists are about to be declared. Keep an eye out of that!

We had a successful Monthly Teachers Breakfast this Wednesday. Wait! ... another one's coming up on April 10! Make sure to sign up on the upcoming Signup genius to donate a little something! 

All Night Grad Party Update!!

Every year the PTSA sponsors an All Night Grad Party (ANGP). The purpose of the ANGP is to give seniors a safe, alcohol-free and drug-free way to celebrate the night of their graduation.

This year's ANGP will be held at Launch Trampoline Park in Herndon (Franklin Farm Shopping Center) on Tuesday, June 11 from 9 PM - 2 AM. In addition to the trampolines, the kids will enjoy go-karts, dodge ball, an agility course, arcade games, casino games, great prizes, food, and more. 

ANGP TICKETS ARE NOW ON SALE!!!! Please click here to purchase:  PTBoard.com

For all your other ANGP needs, including purchasing an OHS Senior Yard sign, Simple Modern Cougar Trek, to make a monetary donation, to donate raffle prizes, to donate food and drinks for the ANGP, and/or volunteer at the ANGP:  PTBoard.com

First day back after spring break make dinner easy and stop at the Oakton Chipotle from 4-8pm to support the OHS All Night Grad Party!!!!

Buy/Donate/Volunteer at ANGP Store!

Questions? Please email: [email protected]

Oakton Pantry General Information 

The Oakton Pantry is available to any Oakton student or neighbor who is in need. We stock non-perishable food, personal hygiene items, and household supplies. 

For assistance: [email protected] 

Volunteer/Questions: [email protected]

Donate via PayPal

Most needed items: website

Amazon Wish List 

Parent Resources Parent Information Line 

Parents who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese can call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS and to receive support if they are having difficulty communicating with their children's schools due to a language barrier.

Parent Resource Center 

The FCPS Parent Resource Center offers a wide variety of information and resources to support the success of all students.  This includes monthly workshops and webinars.  More information can be found on the FCPS website, including registration information.  

FCPS Cares

Do you know an Oakton High School or FCPS employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way or goes beyond what is expected?  If so, then click here to share with everyone. 

2900 Sutton Road, Vienna VA 22181 | Main Office: (703) 319-2700
Attendance: (703) 319-2727 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

如果您想以其他语言阅读此新闻时讯，请访问我们的网站。

이 소식지를 다른 언어로 읽으려면, 우리 웹사이트를 방문하시기 바랍니다.

.يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى

Be sure to follow us on Twitter (@OaktonHS), and Instagram @oaktonhs ! Be sure to check out our Oakton Accolades section on our website as we celebrate student achievement!  

Important Dates 

You can access the FCPS 2023-2024 school year calendar here.   

April 1 - Student Holiday, Teacher Workday

April 2 - Student Holiday, Staff Development Day 

April 9 - Evening Religious and Cultural Observance, Eid al Fitr

April 10 - No School, Eid al Fitr

April 12 - Junior/Senior Prom 

April 22 - Evening Religious and Cultural Observance, First Evening of Passover

April 23-Evening Religious and Cultural Observance, Second Evening of Passover

April 24 - Religious and Cultural Observance Day, Theravada New Year

General Information Principal Evaluation Questionnaire

On Monday, March 18, Oakton High School parents/guardians will be sent an email containing a link to complete the online FCPS Principal Evaluation Parent/Guardian Feedback Form. This questionnaire is part of the VDOE-mandated Performance Evaluation Program for principals and offers parents/guardians an opportunity to provide anonymous input about various topics related to our school. These topics include how the principal demonstrates/impacts instructional leadership, school climate, management, communication and community relations, culturally responsive and equitable leadership, and professionalism within the school.

The questionnaire will be administered between March 18 and April 5. When you receive an email from FCPS Surveys, please take a few minutes to complete the questionnaire. Your feedback matters!

Prom - April 12, 2024

All juniors and seniors are invited to this year's "Old Hollywood" themed prom on Friday, April 12, 2024 from 8-11pm at the Westwood Country Club.  Tickets are available online via MySchoolBucks.  Tickets sold between March 18-April 7 will cost $50.  Tickets sold between April 8 and April 11 will cost $60.  Tickets will not be sold on April 12 at school or at the door of the event.  Guest forms, for those that do not attend Oakton High School, should be picked up and turned in to Mr. McCulla in room 2514.  

🏐 New Athletic Opportunities for Students

The FCPS advertised budget for next school year expands high school athletics with boys volleyball and girls wrestling, giving students more ways to nurture their passion and enhance their well-being. FCPS is now in the middle of the annual budget process, which includes opportunities for you to give feedback. See the Budget Calendar for details. Learn more about the FCPS FY 2025 Advertised Budget.

☀️ Safely View the Total Solar Eclipse on April 8 

A total solar eclipse will occur on Monday, April 8, and will be viewable, depending on weather, in Fairfax County. The eclipse will begin in our area around 2:04 p.m. and end around 4:32 p.m., with the maximum eclipse occurring around 3:20 p.m.  

Because the timing overlaps with dismissal, it is crucial that students understand the importance of safe viewing practices. We encourage families to review these Solar Eclipse Resources, especially the eye safety information. We hope everyone takes the opportunity to learn more about this extraordinary natural phenomenon while prioritizing safe solar viewing.

Partners for Safe Teen Driving Presentation

All students enrolled in Classroom Driver Education during the 2023-2024 school year must attend an in-person Partners for Safe Teen Driving (PSTD). The presentation is connected to successful classroom instruction and must be completed to receive a DEC-District 8 card (pink card). The parent-teen traffic safety presentation (PSTD) will be offered multiple times during the school year at Oakton. Students and their parents/guardians should plan to attend the presentation at Oakton at your earliest convenience.  

All PSTDs begin promptly. Late admission will not be allowed. 

2023-2024 Dates:

1. Wednesday, January 31, 6:30pm in the Auditorium (Rescheduled from January 16 Snow Day)
2. Tuesday, March 19, 6:30pm in the Auditorium
3. Wednesday, May 29, 6:30pm in the Auditorium

These sessions are intended for Sophomores. Juniors and Seniors can attend a session through Adult and Community Education.

PSTD nights are not available to freshmen.

Yearbook Sales

Yearbooks and senior baby ads for the 2023-2024 school year are now on sale! You can purchase yearbook packages at www.yearbookordercenter.com using the code 4770. Standalone yearbooks are also available via MySchoolBucks. Prices start at $67 and will increase throughout the year, so buy early to save.

Don’t wait – the last two years sold out. Please note that senior baby ads are sold out at this time.  Questions? Email [email protected]

Student Services Updates  Student Services Newsletter

Happy March Cougars!  Take a look at Student Services March newsletterthat highlights upcoming events such as Junior Curriculum, the Northern Virginia Regional College Fair, Teen Job Series, and NOVA’s E-Summer Program.  The newsletter also contains helpful information regarding the FAFSA for senior families.  

Course Registration 2024-2025 

Course selections are now locked as we begin building our master schedule for next school year.  If you have any questions, please reach out to the appropriate school counselor.  In June, we will begin taking schedule change requests for a set period of time.  At that time, changes will only be approved based on space availability and finalized course offerings.  

Service Learning Senior Service Learning Hours and X2VOL

The last day for Seniors to submit Service Learning hours to X2Vol for approval will be April 19th at 3pm. All Seniors must have submitted any hours prior to this date if they wish to have them approved for graduation awards and recognition. Please see the information provided below regarding graduation awards and recognition tied to Service Learning in FCPS. If you have any questions please reach out to Kimberly Stewart, our Service Learning Liaison, with your questions [email protected]. This date is for Seniors ONLY. All other underclass students may continue to submit Service Learning hours in X2VOL. Oakton High School Service Learning information can be found HERE.

Service-Learning for Graduates Service Learning Hours Cord: 40 hours 

This is separate from government.  Students can use the hours that they used for government, but they will need a total of 40 hours from the past 4 years in order to earn a service cord at graduation.

• Note to Underclassmen: Hours/Reflections will be recorded by the student on x2VOL website. 
• Note to current Seniors: You will not get the actual cord until graduation rehearsal.

Civics Seal Application: 50 hours

This is an application approved by the state of VA, and requires 50 hours of service, as well as a B average in History/Government. It will allow students to be eligible to receive a civics seal on their diploma. 

• Please talk to your Social Studies teacher for more information. 

Volunteer Fairfax

Volunteer Fairfax is a resource that can be used to find out about service-learning opportunities in the community. Service learning is a great way for students and families to engage with local nonprofits and volunteer. More information about Volunteer opportunities on this day can be found on Volunteer Fairfax’s website.

Disclaimer: Opportunities offered by organizations other than Fairfax County Public Schools are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or a specific school. These opportunities may utilize technology tools that have not been assessed by the Fairfax County Public Schools Department of Information Technology. Students should gain permission from their parent or guardian before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity and families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any technology platform that the enrichment opportunity may use before participating.

Class of 2024 Information Senior Letter 

An updated senior letter was emailed out on January 26.  That information has also been uploaded to the Oakton website and can be found here. This letter includes many updates from the September senior letter.  It also provides more information on how to pay senior dues and order a Class of 2024 t-shirt. 

Health and Wellness Updates 🤧 Updated COVID Recommendations

In accordance with the updated Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) respiratory virus guidance, FCPS and the Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD) have updated school COVID-19 recommendations.

The COVID-19 isolation period of five days is no longer recommended. 

New respiratory virus guidance applies to respiratory viral illnesses, including COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Students who have symptoms of, test positive for, or have been diagnosed with a respiratory virus may return to school when the student is fever-free for 24 hours without fever reducing medication; AND the student’s symptoms have improved or resolved. 

Students should follow additional precautions as outlined per the CDC upon resumption of normal activities. 

Should I Send My Child to School?

Please refer to the chart on this attendance webpage if your child is experiencing symptoms or illnesses, and you are unsure if they should go to school. 

Thank you for helping keep our students and staff healthy.

2023-2024 Health & Safety Guidance for Schools

Be sure to review FCPS Health and Safety Guidance for the best ways to prevent the spread of disease and to find out when students should stay home from school.

Emergency Resources

Crisis Link Regional Hotline            703-527-4077

Crisis Text                                       Text NEEDHELP to 85511

Dominion Hospital Emergency       703-536-2000

INOVA Emergency                         703-289-7560

Merrifield Center Emergency         703-573-5979  TTY dial 711

Life Threatening                             911

Safety and Security Updates Safety Drills

Below is a list of safety drills that we will be practicing this school year. 

• Fire Evacuation Drills - Two within the first twenty school days, then one per month
• Lockdown Drills - Two per school year; one in the first twenty days of school (Completed for the 2023-2024 School Year) 
• Bus Evacuation Drills - Two per school year; to be held within the first thirty school days of each semester (Completed for the 2023-2024 School Year) 
• Tornado Drill  - One in the month of March. (Completed for the 2023-2024 School Year) 

Anonymous Tip Line Puts Safety First

If you or your child have concerns or information relating to feeling unsafe in any way at school, we encourage you to reach out to a member of the security or administrative team so that we may quickly address the issue.  Students and parents may also utilize the FCPS Office of Safety and Security safety tip line, that you can access anonymously online, by text (888-777; Keyword TIP FCPS), or by phone (571-423-2020).

If your tip is an emergency and immediate assistance is necessary, please dial 911.

Students, staff, and community members should report school safety issues such as threats, unsafe or dangerous situations, illegal drug activity, theft, gang activity, the existence of weapons, vandalism, and concerns about student wellness. Tip line users may identify themselves or remain anonymous.

Concerns that do not impact the safety of our schools—concerns or information about programs, regulations, or policies—can be sent to the FCPS ombudsman online, at 571-423-4014, or [email protected]. 

FCPS News Safe, Supported, and Included — the FCPS Family Summit 2024

The FCPS Family Summit will take place on Saturday, April 20, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Marshall High School. The conference will cover topics that are helpful for all families, such as social-emotional resources, along with a specially curated online component to provide supports for students with disabilities and their families. 

Some of the topics include raising resilient, independent children; forming meaningful connections with children; addressing big emotions; and the dangers of opioids and fentanyl. The conference is being planned by several FCPS offices in collaboration with the Fairfax Alliance of Black School Educators, Black Women’s Educational Alliance - DC Chapter, Hispanic Educators Association, and Asian Educators Association. 

This year’s theme is Safe, Supported, and Included, which aligns with Goal 2 of the FCPS Strategic Plan. More details will be available after spring break. 

⏰ Community Forums on Middle School Start Times

Fairfax County Public Schools is exploring options for adjusting middle school start times and invites the public to be part of the process. Prismatic Services, Inc., an educational consulting firm, will lead the forums. All forums will deliver the same presentation and provide the same feedback opportunities. Please attend the event that works best for your schedule: 

• Monday, April 29, 6-8 p.m., at Glasgow Middle School. 
• Monday, May 6, 6-8 p.m., at Whitman Middle School.
• Monday, May 20, 6-8 p.m., at Hughes Middle School.
• Wednesday, May 22, 6-8 p.m., at Frost Middle School. 

Registration is not required but does help with planning. Click one of the dates above to register. Language interpretation and childcare will be provided. Learn more about the project exploring middle school start times. 

PTSA Updates

The PTSA is on Instagram, Yay!. Follow ‘oaktonhs_ptsa’ to keep abreast of what's happening at the PTSA.

The Teachers Appreciation Lunch fundraiser is on. Let's celebrate our teachers and their efforts. Click here to donate towards the event. 

Want to be part of PTSA?  Email at [email protected]. We need more hands!

Our Mini grant finalists are about to be declared. Keep an eye out of that!

We had a successful Monthly Teachers Breakfast this Wednesday. Wait! ... another one's coming up on April 10! Make sure to sign up on the upcoming Signup genius to donate a little something! 

All Night Grad Party Update!!

Every year the PTSA sponsors an All Night Grad Party (ANGP). The purpose of the ANGP is to give seniors a safe, alcohol-free and drug-free way to celebrate the night of their graduation.

This year's ANGP will be held at Launch Trampoline Park in Herndon (Franklin Farm Shopping Center) on Tuesday, June 11 from 9 PM - 2 AM. In addition to the trampolines, the kids will enjoy go-karts, dodge ball, an agility course, arcade games, casino games, great prizes, food, and more. 

ANGP TICKETS ARE NOW ON SALE!!!! Please click here to purchase:  PTBoard.com

For all your other ANGP needs, including purchasing an OHS Senior Yard sign, Simple Modern Cougar Trek, to make a monetary donation, to donate raffle prizes, to donate food and drinks for the ANGP, and/or volunteer at the ANGP:  PTBoard.com

First day back after spring break make dinner easy and stop at the Oakton Chipotle from 4-8pm to support the OHS All Night Grad Party!!!!

Buy/Donate/Volunteer at ANGP Store!

Questions? Please email: [email protected]

Oakton Pantry General Information 

The Oakton Pantry is available to any Oakton student or neighbor who is in need. We stock non-perishable food, personal hygiene items, and household supplies. 

For assistance: [email protected] 

Volunteer/Questions: [email protected]

Donate via PayPal

Most needed items: website

Amazon Wish List 

Parent Resources Parent Information Line 

Parents who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese can call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS and to receive support if they are having difficulty communicating with their children's schools due to a language barrier.

Parent Resource Center 

The FCPS Parent Resource Center offers a wide variety of information and resources to support the success of all students.  This includes monthly workshops and webinars.  More information can be found on the FCPS website, including registration information.  

FCPS Cares

Do you know an Oakton High School or FCPS employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way or goes beyond what is expected?  If so, then click here to share with everyone. 

2900 Sutton Road, Vienna VA 22181 | Main Office: (703) 319-2700
Attendance: (703) 319-2727 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

如果您想以其他语言阅读此新闻时讯，请访问我们的网站。

이 소식지를 다른 언어로 읽으려면, 우리 웹사이트를 방문하시기 바랍니다.

.يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى

Be sure to follow us on Twitter (@OaktonHS), and Instagram @oaktonhs ! Be sure to check out our Oakton Accolades section on our website as we celebrate student achievement!  

Important Dates 

You can access the FCPS 2023-2024 school year calendar here.   

March 25-29 - No School, Spring Break 

April 1 - Student Holiday, Teacher Workday

April 2 - Student Holiday, Staff Development Day 

April 9 - Evening Religious and Cultural Observance, Eid al Fitr

April 10 - No School, Eid al Fitr

April 12 - Junior/Senior Prom 

April 22 - Evening Religious and Cultural Observance, First Evening of Passover

April 23-Evening Religious and Cultural Observance, Second Evening of Passover

April 24 - Religious and Cultural Observance Day, Theravada New Year

General Information Offices Closed - Spring Break

During the week of March 25-March 29 all offices at Oakton High School will be closed.  The majority of school staff have off during that week.  We are happy to assist you in advance of spring break or immediately following our return. 

While students do not have school on April 1 (Teacher Workday) or April 2 (Staff Development Day), the main office will be open from 8am-3pm on those days.  

Principal Evaluation Questionnaire

On Monday, March 18, Oakton High School parents/guardians will be sent an email containing a link to complete the online FCPS Principal Evaluation Parent/Guardian Feedback Form. This questionnaire is part of the VDOE-mandated Performance Evaluation Program for principals and offers parents/guardians an opportunity to provide anonymous input about various topics related to our school. These topics include how the principal demonstrates/impacts instructional leadership, school climate, management, communication and community relations, culturally responsive and equitable leadership, and professionalism within the school.

The questionnaire will be administered between March 18 and April 5. When you receive an email from FCPS Surveys, please take a few minutes to complete the questionnaire. Your feedback matters!

Prom - April 12, 2024

All juniors and seniors are invited to this year's "Old Hollywood" themed prom on Friday, April 12, 2024 from 8-11pm at the Westwood Country Club.  Tickets are available online via MySchoolBucks.  Tickets sold between March 18-April 7 will cost $50.  Tickets sold between April 8 and April 11 will cost $60.  Tickets will not be sold on April 12 at school or at the door of the event.  Guest forms, for those that do not attend Oakton High School, should be picked up and turned in to Mr. McCulla in room 2514.  

🏐 New Athletic Opportunities for Students

The FCPS advertised budget for next school year expands high school athletics with boys volleyball and girls wrestling, giving students more ways to nurture their passion and enhance their well-being. FCPS is now in the middle of the annual budget process, which includes opportunities for you to give feedback. See the Budget Calendar for details. Learn more about the FCPS FY 2025 Advertised Budget.

New Regulation on Meditation and Silent Reflection Spaces

FCPS has developed Regulation 1502 to ensure all students and staff have reasonable accommodation and access to meditation and silent reflection spaces within the school division. The regulation provides guidance for schools on how to manage requests for silent reflection during instructional and non-instructional time, and for students to leave school for religious activities.

These spaces are for individuals to engage in prayer, meditation, or silent reflection, inclusive of their religious or non-religious beliefs. Parents/caregivers must provide written permission for students requesting to miss instructional time on a regular basis. Families are encouraged to contact their child's assistant principal regarding accommodations. View Regulation 1502. Visit FCPS' Guidelines for Religious Activities webpage for more information.

☀️ Safely View the Total Solar Eclipse on April 8 

A total solar eclipse will occur on Monday, April 8, and will be viewable, depending on weather, in Fairfax County. The eclipse will begin in our area around 2:04 p.m. and end around 4:32 p.m., with the maximum eclipse occurring around 3:20 p.m.  

Because the timing overlaps with dismissal, it is crucial that students understand the importance of safe viewing practices. We encourage families to review these Solar Eclipse Resources, especially the eye safety information. We hope everyone takes the opportunity to learn more about this extraordinary natural phenomenon while prioritizing safe solar viewing.

Partners for Safe Teen Driving Presentation

All students enrolled in Classroom Driver Education during the 2023-2024 school year must attend an in-person Partners for Safe Teen Driving (PSTD). The presentation is connected to successful classroom instruction and must be completed to receive a DEC-District 8 card (pink card). The parent-teen traffic safety presentation (PSTD) will be offered multiple times during the school year at Oakton. Students and their parents/guardians should plan to attend the presentation at Oakton at your earliest convenience.  

All PSTDs begin promptly. Late admission will not be allowed. 

2023-2024 Dates:

1. Wednesday, January 31, 6:30pm in the Auditorium (Rescheduled from January 16 Snow Day)
2. Tuesday, March 19, 6:30pm in the Auditorium
3. Wednesday, May 29, 6:30pm in the Auditorium

These sessions are intended for Sophomores. Juniors and Seniors can attend a session through Adult and Community Education.

PSTD nights are not available to freshmen.

Yearbook Sales

Yearbooks and senior baby ads for the 2023-2024 school year are now on sale! You can purchase yearbook packages at www.yearbookordercenter.com using the code 4770. Standalone yearbooks are also available via MySchoolBucks. Prices start at $67 and will increase throughout the year, so buy early to save.

Don’t wait – the last two years sold out. Please note that senior baby ads are sold out at this time.  Questions? Email [email protected]

Student Services Updates  Student Services Newsletter

Happy March Cougars!  Take a look at Student Services March newsletterthat highlights upcoming events such as Junior Curriculum, the Northern Virginia Regional College Fair, Teen Job Series, and NOVA’s E-Summer Program.  The newsletter also contains helpful information regarding the FAFSA for senior families.  

Course Registration 2024-2025 

Course selections are now locked as we begin building our master schedule for next school year.  If you have any questions, please reach out to the appropriate school counselor.  In June, we will begin taking schedule change requests for a set period of time.  At that time, changes will only be approved based on space availability and finalized course offerings.  

Service Learning Senior Service Learning Hours and X2VOL

The last day for Seniors to submit Service Learning hours to X2Vol for approval will be April 19th at 3pm. All Seniors must have submitted any hours prior to this date if they wish to have them approved for graduation awards and recognition. Please see the information provided below regarding graduation awards and recognition tied to Service Learning in FCPS. If you have any questions please reach out to Kimberly Stewart, our Service Learning Liaison, with your questions [email protected]. This date is for Seniors ONLY. All other underclass students may continue to submit Service Learning hours in X2VOL. Oakton High School Service Learning information can be found HERE.

Service-Learning for Graduates Service Learning Hours Cord: 40 hours 

This is separate from government.  Students can use the hours that they used for government, but they will need a total of 40 hours from the past 4 years in order to earn a service cord at graduation.

• Note to Underclassmen: Hours/Reflections will be recorded by the student on x2VOL website. 
• Note to current Seniors: You will not get the actual cord until graduation rehearsal.

Civics Seal Application: 50 hours

This is an application approved by the state of VA, and requires 50 hours of service, as well as a B average in History/Government. It will allow students to be eligible to receive a civics seal on their diploma. 

• Please talk to your Social Studies teacher for more information. 

Volunteer Fairfax

Volunteer Fairfax is a resource that can be used to find out about service-learning opportunities in the community. Service learning is a great way for students and families to engage with local nonprofits and volunteer. More information about Volunteer opportunities on this day can be found on Volunteer Fairfax’s website.

Disclaimer: Opportunities offered by organizations other than Fairfax County Public Schools are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or a specific school. These opportunities may utilize technology tools that have not been assessed by the Fairfax County Public Schools Department of Information Technology. Students should gain permission from their parent or guardian before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity and families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any technology platform that the enrichment opportunity may use before participating.

Class of 2024 Information Senior Letter 

An updated senior letter was emailed out on January 26.  That information has also been uploaded to the Oakton website and can be found here. This letter includes many updates from the September senior letter.  It also provides more information on how to pay senior dues and order a Class of 2024 t-shirt. 

Health and Wellness Updates 🤧 Updated COVID Recommendations

In accordance with the updated Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) respiratory virus guidance, FCPS and the Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD) have updated school COVID-19 recommendations.

The COVID-19 isolation period of five days is no longer recommended. 

New respiratory virus guidance applies to respiratory viral illnesses, including COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Students who have symptoms of, test positive for, or have been diagnosed with a respiratory virus may return to school when the student is fever-free for 24 hours without fever reducing medication; AND the student’s symptoms have improved or resolved. 

Students should follow additional precautions as outlined per the CDC upon resumption of normal activities. 

Should I Send My Child to School?

Please refer to the chart on this attendance webpage if your child is experiencing symptoms or illnesses, and you are unsure if they should go to school. 

Thank you for helping keep our students and staff healthy.

2023-2024 Health & Safety Guidance for Schools

Be sure to review FCPS Health and Safety Guidance for the best ways to prevent the spread of disease and to find out when students should stay home from school.

Emergency Resources

Crisis Link Regional Hotline            703-527-4077

Crisis Text                                       Text NEEDHELP to 85511

Dominion Hospital Emergency       703-536-2000

INOVA Emergency                         703-289-7560

Merrifield Center Emergency         703-573-5979  TTY dial 711

Life Threatening                             911

Safety and Security Updates Safety Drills

Below is a list of safety drills that we will be practicing this school year. 

• Fire Evacuation Drills - Two within the first twenty school days, then one per month
• Lockdown Drills - Two per school year; one in the first twenty days of school (Completed for the 2023-2024 School Year) 
• Bus Evacuation Drills - Two per school year; to be held within the first thirty school days of each semester (Completed for the 2023-2024 School Year) 
• Tornado Drill  - One in the month of March. (Completed for the 2023-2024 School Year) 

Anonymous Tip Line Puts Safety First

If you or your child have concerns or information relating to feeling unsafe in any way at school, we encourage you to reach out to a member of the security or administrative team so that we may quickly address the issue.  Students and parents may also utilize the FCPS Office of Safety and Security safety tip line, that you can access anonymously online, by text (888-777; Keyword TIP FCPS), or by phone (571-423-2020).

If your tip is an emergency and immediate assistance is necessary, please dial 911.

Students, staff, and community members should report school safety issues such as threats, unsafe or dangerous situations, illegal drug activity, theft, gang activity, the existence of weapons, vandalism, and concerns about student wellness. Tip line users may identify themselves or remain anonymous.

Concerns that do not impact the safety of our schools—concerns or information about programs, regulations, or policies—can be sent to the FCPS ombudsman online, at 571-423-4014, or [email protected]. 

FCPS News

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

• Updated COVID Recommendations
• Last Chance to Take the Family Engagement Survey! 
• April Webinars and Events for Families

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving the weekly newsletter, please sign up today. 

Safe, Supported, and Included — the FCPS Family Summit 2024

The FCPS Family Summit will take place on Saturday, April 20, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Marshall High School. The conference will cover topics that are helpful for all families, such as social-emotional resources, along with a specially curated online component to provide supports for students with disabilities and their families. 

Some of the topics include raising resilient, independent children; forming meaningful connections with children; addressing big emotions; and the dangers of opioids and fentanyl. The conference is being planned by several FCPS offices in collaboration with the Fairfax Alliance of Black School Educators, Black Women’s Educational Alliance - DC Chapter, Hispanic Educators Association, and Asian Educators Association. 

This year’s theme is Safe, Supported, and Included, which aligns with Goal 2 of the FCPS Strategic Plan. More details will be available after spring break. 

⏰ Community Forums on Middle School Start Times

Fairfax County Public Schools is exploring options for adjusting middle school start times and invites the public to be part of the process. Prismatic Services, Inc., an educational consulting firm, will lead the forums. All forums will deliver the same presentation and provide the same feedback opportunities. Please attend the event that works best for your schedule: 

• Monday, April 29, 6-8 p.m., at Glasgow Middle School. 
• Monday, May 6, 6-8 p.m., at Whitman Middle School.
• Monday, May 20, 6-8 p.m., at Hughes Middle School.
• Wednesday, May 22, 6-8 p.m., at Frost Middle School. 

Registration is not required but does help with planning. Click one of the dates above to register. Language interpretation and childcare will be provided. Learn more about the project exploring middle school start times. 

PTSA Updates

The PTSA is on Instagram, Yay!. Follow ‘oaktonhs_ptsa’ to keep abreast of what's happening at the PTSA.

The Teachers Appreciation Lunch fundraiser is on. Let's celebrate our teachers and their efforts. Click here to donate towards the event. 

Want to be part of PTSA?  Email at [email protected]. We need more hands!

Our Mini grant finalists are about to be declared. Keep an eye out of that!

We had a successful Monthly Teachers Breakfast this Wednesday. Wait! ... another one's coming up on April 10! Make sure to sign up on the upcoming Signup genius to donate a little something! 

All Night Grad Party Update!!

Every year the PTSA sponsors an All Night Grad Party (ANGP). The purpose of the ANGP is to give seniors a safe, alcohol-free and drug-free way to celebrate the night of their graduation.

This year's ANGP will be held at Launch Trampoline Park in Herndon (Franklin Farm Shopping Center) on Tuesday, June 11 from 9 PM - 2 AM. In addition to the trampolines, the kids will enjoy go-karts, dodge ball, an agility course, arcade games, casino games, great prizes, food, and more. 

ANGP TICKETS ARE NOW ON SALE!!!! Please click here to purchase:  PTBoard.com

For all your other ANGP needs, including purchasing an OHS Senior Yard sign, Simple Modern Cougar Trek, to make a monetary donation, to donate raffle prizes, to donate food and drinks for the ANGP, and/or volunteer at the ANGP:  PTBoard.com

First day back after spring break make dinner easy and stop at the Oakton Chipotle from 4-8pm to support the OHS All Night Grad Party!!!!

Buy/Donate/Volunteer at ANGP Store!

Questions? Please email: [email protected]

Oakton Pantry General Information 

The Oakton Pantry is available to any Oakton student or neighbor who is in need. We stock non-perishable food, personal hygiene items, and household supplies. 

For assistance: [email protected] 

Volunteer/Questions: [email protected]

Donate via PayPal

Most needed items: website

Amazon Wish List 

Parent Resources Parent Information Line 

Parents who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese can call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS and to receive support if they are having difficulty communicating with their children's schools due to a language barrier.

Parent Resource Center 

The FCPS Parent Resource Center offers a wide variety of information and resources to support the success of all students.  This includes monthly workshops and webinars.  More information can be found on the FCPS website, including registration information.  

FCPS Cares

Do you know an Oakton High School or FCPS employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way or goes beyond what is expected?  If so, then click here to share with everyone. 

2900 Sutton Road, Vienna VA 22181 | Main Office: (703) 319-2700
Attendance: (703) 319-2727 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

如果您想以其他语言阅读此新闻时讯，请访问我们的网站。

이 소식지를 다른 언어로 읽으려면, 우리 웹사이트를 방문하시기 바랍니다.

.يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى

Be sure to follow us on Twitter (@OaktonHS), and Instagram @oaktonhs ! Be sure to check out our Oakton Accolades section on our website as we celebrate student achievement!  

Important Dates 

You can access the FCPS 2023-2024 school year calendar here.   

March 20 - Mission/Vision - Parent Meeting, 5pm 

March 22 - Last Day of 3rd Quarter

March 25-29 - No School, Spring Break 

April 1 - Student Holiday, Teacher Workday

April 2 - Student Holiday, Staff Development Day 

April 9 - Evening Religious and Cultural Observance, Eid al Fitr

April 10 - No School, Eid al Fitr

April 12 - Junior/Senior Prom 

April 22 - Evening Religious and Cultural Observance, First Evening of Passover

April 23-Evening Religious and Cultural Observance, Second Evening of Passover

April 24 - Religious and Cultural Observance Day, Theravada New Year

General Information Oakton High School Mission and Vision Statements - Parent Feedback 

As shared in my email to the community last week, we will be working on our school mission and school vision statements over the next couple months.  We would love to here from you in that process.  You may respond to this quick survey where you can select your top wishes for the themes embodied in our school mission and vision statement (see questions 4 and 5).  Or, you may attend one of two in-person sessions to discuss the themes and what that looks like in action.  Both sessions will be the same so those interested may select the date that works best for them. 

• Wednesday, March 13 - 5:00 -6:00 pm (Lecture Hall)
• Wednesday, March 20 - 5:00-6:00pm (Lecture Hall) 

Principal Evaluation Questionnaire

On Monday, March 18, Oakton High School parents/guardians will be sent an email containing a link to complete the online FCPS Principal Evaluation Parent/Guardian Feedback Form. This questionnaire is part of the VDOE-mandated Performance Evaluation Program for principals and offers parents/guardians an opportunity to provide anonymous input about various topics related to our school. These topics include how the principal demonstrates/impacts instructional leadership, school climate, management, communication and community relations, culturally responsive and equitable leadership, and professionalism within the school.

The questionnaire will be administered between March 18 and April 5. When you receive an email from FCPS Surveys, please take a few minutes to complete the questionnaire. Your feedback matters!

Nominations Open for First Class Award for Inclusion 

The Advisory Committee for Students with Disabilities (ACSD) is seeking nominations for the First Class Awards. The awards are presented annually to educators, administrators, and students who support, design, and/or implement programs or activities that include students with disabilities that result in positive outcomes for all students. The ACSD will recognize award winners at the Family Summit on Saturday, April 20. 

Nominate an individual who has made an exceptional contribution to inclusive practices in Fairfax County Public Schools by Friday, March 22. Email [email protected] with questions.

2024 Virtual Military Night

FCPS School Counseling Services is hosting a Virtual Military Night on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. This event is designed for high school students and their families who are interested in learning more about the military pathways and opportunities. Enlistment, service academies and ROTC pathways will be represented. You will find additional information on this site.  

Offices Closed - Spring Break

During the week of March 25-March 29 all offices at Oakton High School will be closed.  The majority of school staff have off during that week.  We are happy to assist you in advance of spring break or immediately following our return. 

While students do not have school on April 1 (Teacher Workday) or April 2 (Staff Development Day), the main office will be open from 8am-3pm on those days.  

Learner Permit Testing Dates

If you would like to sign your student up for their learner's permit driving test, please see this document for dates and registration information.  This also includes resources to help students prepare.  

Partners for Safe Teen Driving Presentation

All students enrolled in Classroom Driver Education during the 2023-2024 school year must attend an in-person Partners for Safe Teen Driving (PSTD). The presentation is connected to successful classroom instruction and must be completed to receive a DEC-District 8 card (pink card). The parent-teen traffic safety presentation (PSTD) will be offered multiple times during the school year at Oakton. Students and their parents/guardians should plan to attend the presentation at Oakton at your earliest convenience.  

All PSTDs begin promptly. Late admission will not be allowed. 

2023-2024 Dates:

1. Wednesday, January 31, 6:30pm in the Auditorium (Rescheduled from January 16 Snow Day)
2. Tuesday, March 19, 6:30pm in the Auditorium
3. Wednesday, May 29, 6:30pm in the Auditorium

These sessions are intended for Sophomores. Juniors and Seniors can attend a session through Adult and Community Education.

PSTD nights are not available to freshmen.

Yearbook Sales

Yearbooks and senior baby ads for the 2023-2024 school year are now on sale! You can purchase yearbook packages at www.yearbookordercenter.com using the code 4770. Standalone yearbooks are also available via MySchoolBucks. Prices start at $67 and will increase throughout the year, so buy early to save. Don’t wait – the last two years sold out. Please note that senior baby ads are sold out at this time.  Questions? Email [email protected]

Testing Updates  National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) 

Oakton High will participate in the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) on Thursday, March 21, 2024. This is a new date from the originally scheduled date of February 13, 2024.  NAEP reached out late last week to reschedule the administration of this test.  NAEP is the largest nationally representative and continuing assessment of what students know and can do in various subjects. NAEP is administered by the National Center for Education Statistics, within the U.S. Department of Education. NAEP is different from our state assessments because it is a common measure of achievement across the country. The results are released as The Nation's Report Card, which provides information about student achievement to educators, parents/guardians, policymakers, and the public. Families of students selected to participate will be notified via email.

Student Services Updates  Student Services Newsletter

Happy March Cougars!  Take a look at Student Services March newsletterthat highlights upcoming events such as Junior Curriculum, the Northern Virginia Regional College Fair, Teen Job Series, and NOVA’s E-Summer Program.  The newsletter also contains helpful information regarding the FAFSA for senior families. 

Timeline for Schedule Changes

Please see the timeline below regarding schedule changes for the 2023-24 school year. 

• November 6 - March 22: Any student requesting a schedule change will need to fill out the schedule change request form, with permission from parent, student, teacher, school counselor, and administrator. If approved by the administration, schedule changes will only be processed if there is space available.
• After March 22: There will not be any schedule changes, regardless of space availability.  This date aligns with the last day of the 3rd Quarter.

To find out who your child's school counselor is, please visit our website.  

Course Registration 2024-2025 

Course selections are now locked as we begin building our master schedule for next school year.  If you have any questions, please reach out to the appropriate school counselor.  In June, we will begin taking schedule change requests for a set period of time.  At that time, changes will only be approved based on space availability and finalized course offerings.  

Service Learning Senior Service Learning Hours and X2VOL

The last day for Seniors to submit Service Learning hours to X2Vol for approval will be April 19th at 3pm. All Seniors must have submitted any hours prior to this date if they wish to have them approved for graduation awards and recognition. Please see the information provided below regarding graduation awards and recognition tied to Service Learning in FCPS. If you have any questions please reach out to Kimberly Stewart, our Service Learning Liaison, with your questions [email protected]. This date is for Seniors ONLY. All other underclass students may continue to submit Service Learning hours in X2VOL. Oakton High School Service Learning information can be found HERE.

Service-Learning for Graduates Service Learning Hours Cord: 40 hours 

This is separate from government.  Students can use the hours that they used for government, but they will need a total of 40 hours from the past 4 years in order to earn a service cord at graduation.

• Note to Underclassmen: Hours/Reflections will be recorded by the student on x2VOL website. 
• Note to current Seniors: You will not get the actual cord until graduation rehearsal.

Civics Seal Application: 50 hours

This is an application approved by the state of VA, and requires 50 hours of service, as well as a B average in History/Government. It will allow students to be eligible to receive a civics seal on their diploma. 

• Please talk to your Social Studies teacher for more information. 

Volunteer Fairfax

Volunteer Fairfax is a resource that can be used to find out about service-learning opportunities in the community. Service learning is a great way for students and families to engage with local nonprofits and volunteer. More information about Volunteer opportunities on this day can be found on Volunteer Fairfax’s website.

Disclaimer: Opportunities offered by organizations other than Fairfax County Public Schools are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or a specific school. These opportunities may utilize technology tools that have not been assessed by the Fairfax County Public Schools Department of Information Technology. Students should gain permission from their parent or guardian before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity and families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any technology platform that the enrichment opportunity may use before participating.

Class of 2024 Information Senior Letter 

An updated senior letter was emailed out on January 26.  That information has also been uploaded to the Oakton website and can be found here. This letter includes many updates from the September senior letter.  It also provides more information on how to pay senior dues and order a Class of 2024 t-shirt. 

Health and Wellness Updates Measles Is Preventable

Measles is making headlines as the number of cases nationwide has topped 40, with three confirmed cases in people living in or traveling through the National Capital Region. 

The good news is that measles is preventable through vaccination! Vaccines help teach the immune system how to defend against germs, helping to build up natural defenses. Give your child the best protection against measles with two doses of the Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine. Visit the Fairfax County Health Department website to find out more about measles.

Extended Hours at Immunization Clinics

To help parents/caregivers obtain vaccinations for their children, the Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD) will offer immunization clinics with extended hours:

• Thursday, March 21, 4:30-7:30 p.m., Joseph Willard Health Center.Walk-ins are accepted until 7 p.m.
• Friday, March 22, 1-5:30 p.m., Annandale District Office. Walk-ins are accepted until 5 p.m.

Parents/caregivers should make an appointment but a limited number of walk-ins will be accepted. Please call 703-246-7100 to schedule an appointment.

Learn more about vaccinating your child and find community resources to support their health and well-being. 

Note: All students enrolling in public and private schools in Virginia are required to be adequately immunized per the Code of Virginia.

Join a Conversation on Fentanyl and Other Drugs

A community conversation on the opioid crisis in Northern Virginia will be held Monday, March 18, 6:30-8 p.m., in the auditorium at Lake Braddock Secondary School. (Please enter through Door #14). Attendees will receive free REVIVE! Narcan training during the event and learn about support services within FCPS and Fairfax County.   

This discussion will provide families, staff, and students with valuable knowledge about the dangers of drugs and deadly fentanyl. The material discussed will be suitable for students in grade 6 and higher. Language interpretation will be available as well as American Sign Language accommodation. Childcare and transportation will also be provided, as needed. 

Learn more about the event and register online.

2023-2024 Health & Safety Guidance for Schools

Be sure to review FCPS Health and Safety Guidance for the best ways to prevent the spread of disease and to find out when students should stay home from school.

Emergency Resources

Crisis Link Regional Hotline            703-527-4077

Crisis Text                                       Text NEEDHELP to 85511

Dominion Hospital Emergency       703-536-2000

INOVA Emergency                         703-289-7560

Merrifield Center Emergency         703-573-5979  TTY dial 711

Life Threatening                             911

Safety and Security Updates Safety Drills

Below is a list of safety drills that we will be practicing this school year. 

• Fire Evacuation Drills - Two within the first twenty school days, then one per month
• Lockdown Drills - Two per school year; one in the first twenty days of school (Completed for the 2023-2024 School Year) 
• Bus Evacuation Drills - Two per school year; to be held within the first thirty school days of each semester (To be completed on March 14, 2024.)  
• Tornado Drill  -(Completed for the 2023-2024 School Year) 

Anonymous Tip Line Puts Safety First

If you or your child have concerns or information relating to feeling unsafe in any way at school, we encourage you to reach out to a member of the security or administrative team so that we may quickly address the issue.  Students and parents may also utilize the FCPS Office of Safety and Security safety tip line, that you can access anonymously online, by text (888-777; Keyword TIP FCPS), or by phone (571-423-2020).

If your tip is an emergency and immediate assistance is necessary, please dial 911.

Students, staff, and community members should report school safety issues such as threats, unsafe or dangerous situations, illegal drug activity, theft, gang activity, the existence of weapons, vandalism, and concerns about student wellness. Tip line users may identify themselves or remain anonymous.

Concerns that do not impact the safety of our schools—concerns or information about programs, regulations, or policies—can be sent to the FCPS ombudsman online, at 571-423-4014, or [email protected]. 

FCPS News

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

• Take the Family Engagement Survey! 
• Fairfax County’s Funding of the FCPS Budget
• Literacy Development for Multilingual Learners

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving the weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

Take the Family Engagement Survey Today! 

If you haven’t already, please take FCPS’ Family Engagement Survey today! Survey results will help us to better recognize, understand, respect, and address family strengths and needs in our school community. Survey topics include:

• Welcoming environment
• Communication
• Student success
• Advocacy 
• Family and school partnerships
• Community partnerships

The survey is available in 10 languages. Please check your email for a message from FCPS partner, K12 Insight, with a link to the survey or access the survey now. Your voice matters!

PTSA Updates

The PTSA is on Instagram, Yay!. Follow ‘oaktonhs_ptsa’ to keep abreast of what's happening at the PTSA.

The Teachers Appreciation Lunch fundraiser is on. Let's celebrate our teachers and their efforts. Click here to donate towards the event. 

Want to be part of PTSA?  Email at [email protected]. We need more hands!

Our Mini grant finalists are about to be declared. Keep an eye out of that!

We had a successful Monthly Teachers Breakfast this Wednesday. Wait! ... another one's coming up on April 10! Make sure to sign up on the upcoming Signup genius to donate a little something! 

All Night Grad Party Update!!

Every year the PTSA sponsors an All Night Grad Party (ANGP). The purpose of the ANGP is to give seniors a safe, alcohol-free and drug-free way to celebrate the night of their graduation.

This year's ANGP will be held at Launch Trampoline Park in Herndon (Franklin Farm Shopping Center) on Tuesday, June 11 from 9 PM - 2 AM. In addition to the trampolines, the kids will enjoy go-karts, dodge ball, an agility course, arcade games, casino games, great prizes, food, and more. 

ANGP TICKETS ARE ON SALE!!!! PRIZES will be given at the door of the ANGP to the first 100 ticket purchasers, so get your tickets NOW!! Please click here to purchase:  PTBoard.com

For all your other ANGP needs, including purchasing an OHS Senior Yard sign, Simple Modern Cougar Trek, to make a monetary donation, to donate raffle prizes, to donate food and drinks for the ANGP, and/or volunteer at the ANGP:  PTBoard.com

Questions? Please email: [email protected]

Oakton Pantry Pantry Update

Two shout outs today to the Oakton Wrestling team and the Oakton Girls Basketball program for the huge collection of food and toiletries they collected at their end of season banquets. We are so appreciative of their generosity and support of the Pantry! Congratulations on great seasons!

General Information 

The Oakton Pantry is available to any Oakton student or neighbor who is in need. We stock non-perishable food, personal hygiene items, and household supplies. 

For assistance: [email protected] 

Volunteer/Questions: [email protected]

Donate via PayPal

Most needed items: website

Amazon Wish List 

Parent Resources Parent Information Line 

Parents who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese can call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS and to receive support if they are having difficulty communicating with their children's schools due to a language barrier.

Parent Resource Center 

The FCPS Parent Resource Center offers a wide variety of information and resources to support the success of all students.  This includes monthly workshops and webinars.  More information can be found on the FCPS website, including registration information.  

FCPS Cares

Do you know an Oakton High School or FCPS employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way or goes beyond what is expected?  If so, then click here to share with everyone. 

2900 Sutton Road, Vienna VA 22181 | Main Office: (703) 319-2700
Attendance: (703) 319-2727 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

如果您想以其他语言阅读此新闻时讯，请访问我们的网站。

이 소식지를 다른 언어로 읽으려면, 우리 웹사이트를 방문하시기 바랍니다.

.يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى

Be sure to follow us on Twitter (@OaktonHS), and Instagram @oaktonhs ! Be sure to check out our Oakton Accolades section on our website as we celebrate student achievement!  

Important Dates 

You can access the FCPS 2023-2024 school year calendar here.   

March 11 - Religious and Cultural Observance Day, First full day of Ramadan 

March 13 - Mission/Vision - Parent Meeting, 5pm 

March 20 - Mission/Vision - Parent Meeting, 5pm 

March 22 - Last Day of 3rd Quarter

March 25-29 - No School, Spring Break 

April 1 - Student Holiday, Teacher Workday

April 2 - Student Holiday, Staff Development Day 

April 10 - No School, Eid al Fitr

April 12 - Junior/Senior Prom 

General Information Oakton High School Mission and Vision Statements - Parent Feedback 

As shared in my email to the community last week, we will be working on our school mission and school vision statements over the next couple months.  We would love to here from you in that process.  You may respond to this quick survey where you can select your top wishes for the themes embodied in our school mission and vision statement (see questions 4 and 5).  Or, you may attend one of two in-person sessions to discuss the themes and what that looks like in action.  Both sessions will be the same so those interested may select the date that works best for them. 

• Wednesday, March 13 - 5:00 -6:00 pm (Lecture Hall)
• Wednesday, March 20 - 5:00-6:00pm (Lecture Hall) 

Principal Evaluation Questionnaire

On Monday, March 18, Oakton High School parents/guardians will be sent an email containing a link to complete the online FCPS Principal Evaluation Parent/Guardian Feedback Form. This questionnaire is part of the VDOE-mandated Performance Evaluation Program for principals and offers parents/guardians an opportunity to provide anonymous input about various topics related to our school. These topics include how the principal demonstrates/impacts instructional leadership, school climate, management, communication and community relations, culturally responsive and equitable leadership, and professionalism within the school.

The questionnaire will be administered between March 18 and April 5. When you receive an email from FCPS Surveys, please take a few minutes to complete the questionnaire. Your feedback matters!

2024 Virtual Military Night

FCPS School Counseling Services is hosting a Virtual Military Night on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. This event is designed for high school students and their families who are interested in learning more about the military pathways and opportunities. Enlistment, service academies and ROTC pathways will be represented. You will find additional information on this site.  

Offices Closed - Spring Break

During the week of March 25-March 29 all offices at Oakton High School will be closed.  The majority of school staff have off during that week.  We are happy to assist you in advance of spring break or immediately following our return. 

While students do not have school on April 1 (Teacher Workday) or April 2 (Staff Development Day), the main office will be open from 8am-3pm on those days.  

Learner Permit Testing Dates

If you would like to sign your student up for their learner's permit driving test, please see this document for dates and registration information.  This also includes resources to help students prepare.  

Partners for Safe Teen Driving Presentation

All students enrolled in Classroom Driver Education during the 2023-2024 school year must attend an in-person Partners for Safe Teen Driving (PSTD). The presentation is connected to successful classroom instruction and must be completed to receive a DEC-District 8 card (pink card). The parent-teen traffic safety presentation (PSTD) will be offered multiple times during the school year at Oakton. Students and their parents/guardians should plan to attend the presentation at Oakton at your earliest convenience.  

All PSTDs begin promptly. Late admission will not be allowed. 

2023-2024 Dates:

1. Wednesday, January 31, 6:30pm in the Auditorium (Rescheduled from January 16 Snow Day)
2. Tuesday, March 19, 6:30pm in the Auditorium
3. Wednesday, May 29, 6:30pm in the Auditorium

These sessions are intended for Sophomores. Juniors and Seniors can attend a session through Adult and Community Education.

PSTD nights are not available to freshmen.

Yearbook Sales

Yearbooks and senior baby ads for the 2023-2024 school year are now on sale! You can purchase yearbook packages at www.yearbookordercenter.com using the code 4770. Standalone yearbooks are also available via MySchoolBucks. Prices start at $67 and will increase throughout the year, so buy early to save. Don’t wait – the last two years sold out. Please note that senior baby ads are sold out at this time.  Questions? Email [email protected]

Testing Updates  National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) 

Oakton High will participate in the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) on Thursday, March 21, 2024. This is a new date from the originally scheduled date of February 13, 2024.  NAEP reached out late last week to reschedule the administration of this test.  NAEP is the largest nationally representative and continuing assessment of what students know and can do in various subjects. NAEP is administered by the National Center for Education Statistics, within the U.S. Department of Education. NAEP is different from our state assessments because it is a common measure of achievement across the country. The results are released as The Nation's Report Card, which provides information about student achievement to educators, parents/guardians, policymakers, and the public. Families of students selected to participate will be notified via email.

Student Services Updates  Student Services Newsletter

Happy March Cougars!  Take a look at Student Services March newsletterthat highlights upcoming events such as Junior Curriculum, the Northern Virginia Regional College Fair, Teen Job Series, and NOVA’s E-Summer Program.  The newsletter also contains helpful information regarding the FAFSA for senior families. 

Timeline for Schedule Changes

Please see the timeline below regarding schedule changes for the 2023-24 school year. 

• November 6 - March 22: Any student requesting a schedule change will need to fill out the schedule change request form, with permission from parent, student, teacher, school counselor, and administrator. If approved by the administration, schedule changes will only be processed if there is space available.
• After March 22: There will not be any schedule changes, regardless of space availability.  This date aligns with the last day of the 3rd Quarter.

To find out who your child's school counselor is, please visit our website.  

Course Registration 2024-2025 

Course selections are now locked as we begin building our master schedule for next school year.  If you have any questions, please reach out to the appropriate school counselor.  In June, we will begin taking schedule change requests for a set period of time.  At that time, changes will only be approved based on space availability and finalized course offerings.  

Service Learning Senior Service Learning Hours and X2VOL

The last day for Seniors to submit Service Learning hours to X2Vol for approval will be April 19th at 3pm. All Seniors must have submitted any hours prior to this date if they wish to have them approved for graduation awards and recognition. Please see the information provided below regarding graduation awards and recognition tied to Service Learning in FCPS. If you have any questions please reach out to Kimberly Stewart, our Service Learning Liaison, with your questions [email protected]. This date is for Seniors ONLY. All other underclass students may continue to submit Service Learning hours in X2VOL. Oakton High School Service Learning information can be found HERE.

Service-Learning for Graduates Service Learning Hours Cord: 40 hours 

This is separate from government.  Students can use the hours that they used for government, but they will need a total of 40 hours from the past 4 years in order to earn a service cord at graduation.

• Note to Underclassmen: Hours/Reflections will be recorded by the student on x2VOL website. 
• Note to current Seniors: You will not get the actual cord until graduation rehearsal.

Civics Seal Application: 50 hours

This is an application approved by the state of VA, and requires 50 hours of service, as well as a B average in History/Government. It will allow students to be eligible to receive a civics seal on their diploma. 

• Please talk to your Social Studies teacher for more information. 

Volunteer Fairfax

Volunteer Fairfax is a resource that can be used to find out about service-learning opportunities in the community. Service learning is a great way for students and families to engage with local nonprofits and volunteer. More information about Volunteer opportunities on this day can be found on Volunteer Fairfax’s website.

Disclaimer: Opportunities offered by organizations other than Fairfax County Public Schools are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or a specific school. These opportunities may utilize technology tools that have not been assessed by the Fairfax County Public Schools Department of Information Technology. Students should gain permission from their parent or guardian before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity and families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any technology platform that the enrichment opportunity may use before participating.

Class of 2024 Information Senior Letter 

An updated senior letter was emailed out on January 26.  That information has also been uploaded to the Oakton website and can be found here. This letter includes many updates from the September senior letter.  It also provides more information on how to pay senior dues and order a Class of 2024 t-shirt. 

Health and Wellness Updates 2023-2024 Health & Safety Guidance for Schools

Be sure to review FCPS Health and Safety Guidance for the best ways to prevent the spread of disease and to find out when students should stay home from school.

Emergency Resources

Crisis Link Regional Hotline            703-527-4077

Crisis Text                                       Text NEEDHELP to 85511

Dominion Hospital Emergency       703-536-2000

INOVA Emergency                         703-289-7560

Merrifield Center Emergency         703-573-5979  TTY dial 711

Life Threatening                             911

Safety and Security Updates Safety Drills

Below is a list of safety drills that we will be practicing this school year. 

• Fire Evacuation Drills - Two within the first twenty school days, then one per month
• Lockdown Drills - Two per school year; one in the first twenty days of school (Completed for the 2023-2024 School Year) 
• Bus Evacuation Drills - Two per school year; to be held within the first thirty school days of each semester (To be completed on March 14, 2024.)  
• Tornado Drill  -(Completed for the 2023-2024 School Year) 

Anonymous Tip Line Puts Safety First

If you or your child have concerns or information relating to feeling unsafe in any way at school, we encourage you to reach out to a member of the security or administrative team so that we may quickly address the issue.  Students and parents may also utilize the FCPS Office of Safety and Security safety tip line, that you can access anonymously online, by text (888-777; Keyword TIP FCPS), or by phone (571-423-2020).

If your tip is an emergency and immediate assistance is necessary, please dial 911.

Students, staff, and community members should report school safety issues such as threats, unsafe or dangerous situations, illegal drug activity, theft, gang activity, the existence of weapons, vandalism, and concerns about student wellness. Tip line users may identify themselves or remain anonymous.

Concerns that do not impact the safety of our schools—concerns or information about programs, regulations, or policies—can be sent to the FCPS ombudsman online, at 571-423-4014, or [email protected]. 

FCPS News

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

• Take the Family Engagement Survey! 
• New Regulation on Meditation and Reflection Spaces
• Solar Eclipse Resources

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving the weekly newsletter, please sign up today. 

Family Engagement Survey

📩 The bi-annual FCPS Family Engagement Survey was emailed to families on Sunday, March 3! This is your chance to give feedback on your school's welcoming environment, communication, and other topics. Learn more on the FCPS website: 

https://bit.ly/FESURVEY2024

PTSA Updates

The Oakton PTSA Winter Fundraiser is underway. Your contributions, membership and donations  to the PTSA  go a long way in helping the PTSA provide for funds, events, and opportunities for the students and the teachers. Help us help our community by becoming a member, donations, and participation in our monthly meetings.  Click here for your memberships and contributions. 

Have any ideas or concerns,  email us at  [email protected]. 

For our announcements and updates ,the Oakton PTSA website. 

ANGP Information 

It's hard to believe graduation is only a few months away! We can’t wait to celebrate the Class of 2024, their achievements, and the friendships and memories they have created over the past 4 years!

Every year the PTSA sponsors an All Night Grad Party (ANGP). The purpose of the ANGP is to give seniors a safe, alcohol-free and drug-free way to celebrate the night of their graduation.

This year's ANGP will be held at Launch Trampoline Park in Franklin Farm on Tuesday, June 11 from 9 PM - 2 AM. In addition to the trampolines, the kids will enjoy go-karts, dodge ball, an agility course, arcade games, casino games, great prizes, food, and more. 

ANGP TICKETS ARE NOW ON SALE! Please click here to purchase:  PTBoard.com. 

For all your other ANGP needs, including purchasing an OHS Senior Yard sign, Simple Modern Cougar Trek,  to make a monetary donation, to donate raffle prizes, to donate food and drinks for the ANGP, and/or volunteer at the ANGP:  PTBoard.com. 

Questions? 

Please email: [email protected]

Thank you for your support!

Oakton Pantry Pantry Update

Thank you so much to the Oakton Track & Field team for the amazing collection they did for the Pantry at their banquet last week. Their donations of personal hygiene products and house cleaning items came in on Wednesday evening and by Thursday afternoon they were in the hands of grateful recipients. We appreciate the support of everyone who donated!

General Information 

The Oakton Pantry is available to any Oakton student or neighbor who is in need. We stock non-perishable food, personal hygiene items, and household supplies. 

For assistance: [email protected] 

Volunteer/Questions: [email protected]

Donate via PayPal

Most needed items: website

Amazon Wish List 

Parent Resources Parent Information Line 

Parents who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese can call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS and to receive support if they are having difficulty communicating with their children's schools due to a language barrier.

Parent Resource Center 

The FCPS Parent Resource Center offers a wide variety of information and resources to support the success of all students.  This includes monthly workshops and webinars.  More information can be found on the FCPS website, including registration information.  

FCPS Cares

Do you know an Oakton High School or FCPS employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way or goes beyond what is expected?  If so, then click here to share with everyone. 

2900 Sutton Road, Vienna VA 22181 | Main Office: (703) 319-2700
Attendance: (703) 319-2727 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

如果您想以其他语言阅读此新闻时讯，请访问我们的网站。

이 소식지를 다른 언어로 읽으려면, 우리 웹사이트를 방문하시기 바랍니다.

.يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى

Be sure to follow us on Twitter (@OaktonHS), and Instagram @oaktonhs ! Be sure to check out our Oakton Accolades section on our website as we celebrate student achievement!  

Important Dates 

You can access the FCPS 2023-2024 school year calendar here.   

March 5 - No School for Students (Virtual School Planning Day - Primary Day) 

March 11 - Religious and Cultural Observance Day, First full day of Ramadan 

March 13 - Mission/Vision - Parent Meeting, 5pm 

March 20 - Mission/Vision - Parent Meeting, 5pm 

March 22 - Last Day of 3rd Quarter

March 25-29 - No School, Spring Break 

April 1 - Student Holiday, Teacher Workday

April 2 - Student Holiday, Staff Development Day 

April 10 - No School, Eid al Fitr

April 12 - Junior/Senior Prom 

General Information Oakton High School Mission and Vision Statements - Parent Feedback 

As shared in my email to the community last week, we will be working on our school mission and school vision statements over the next couple months.  We would love to here from you in that process.  You may respond to this quick survey where you can select your top wishes for the themes embodied in our school mission and vision statement (see questions 4 and 5).  Or, you may attend one of two in-person sessions to discuss the themes and what that looks like in action.  Both sessions will be the same so those interested may select the date that works best for them. 

• Wednesday, March 13 - 5:00 -6:00 pm (Lecture Hall)
• Wednesday, March 20 - 5:00-6:00pm (Lecture Hall) 

Course Registration 2024-2025 

Course selections are now locked as we begin building our master schedule for next school year.  If you have any questions, please reach out to the appropriate school counselor.  In June, we will begin taking schedule change requests for a set period of time.  At that time, changes will only be approved based on space availability and finalized course offerings.  

2024 Virtual Military Night

FCPS School Counseling Services is hosting a Virtual Military Night on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. This event is designed for high school students and their families who are interested in learning more about the military pathways and opportunities. Enlistment, service academies and ROTC pathways will be represented. You will find additional information on this site.  

Learner Permit Testing Dates

If you would like to sign your student up for their learner's permit driving test, please see this document for dates and registration information.  This also includes resources to help students prepare.  

Partners for Safe Teen Driving Presentation

All students enrolled in Classroom Driver Education during the 2023-2024 school year must attend an in-person Partners for Safe Teen Driving (PSTD). The presentation is connected to successful classroom instruction and must be completed to receive a DEC-District 8 card (pink card). The parent-teen traffic safety presentation (PSTD) will be offered multiple times during the school year at Oakton. Students and their parents/guardians should plan to attend the presentation at Oakton at your earliest convenience.  

All PSTDs begin promptly. Late admission will not be allowed. 

2023-2024 Dates:

1. Wednesday, January 31, 6:30pm in the Auditorium (Rescheduled from January 16 Snow Day)
2. Tuesday, March 19, 6:30pm in the Auditorium
3. Wednesday, May 29, 6:30pm in the Auditorium

These sessions are intended for Sophomores. Juniors and Seniors can attend a session through Adult and Community Education.

PSTD nights are not available to freshmen.

Yearbook Sales

Yearbooks and senior baby ads for the 2023-2024 school year are now on sale! You can purchase yearbook packages at www.yearbookordercenter.com using the code 4770. Standalone yearbooks are also available via MySchoolBucks. Prices start at $67 and will increase throughout the year, so buy early to save. Don’t wait – the last two years sold out. Please note that senior baby ads are sold out at this time.  Questions? Email [email protected]

Fairfax County Teen Job Fair Series

Looking for a job or volunteer opportunity? All students are invited to attend the 2024 Fairfax County Teen Job Fair Series and Career Building Workshops sponsored by Springfield District Supervisor Pat Herrity with FCPS kicking off Saturday, March 2nd from 11am to 1pm at Chantilly High School and on Saturday, March 9th at West Springfield High School from 11am to 1pm. At each fair, students will have the opportunity to engage with employers offering part-time, full-time, seasonal, and volunteer positions. During the fairs, students will also be able to attend career-building workshops like Resume Building and Interviewing 101. Most positions at the fair are geared toward students age 16+, but some opportunities for younger students may be available with parental consent. Registration is free here and at the fairs. For more information, or to register, please visit the Teen Job Fair webpage.

Testing Updates  National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) 

Oakton High will participate in the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) on Thursday, March 21, 2024. This is a new date from the originally scheduled date of February 13, 2024.  NAEP reached out late last week to reschedule the administration of this test.  NAEP is the largest nationally representative and continuing assessment of what students know and can do in various subjects. NAEP is administered by the National Center for Education Statistics, within the U.S. Department of Education. NAEP is different from our state assessments because it is a common measure of achievement across the country. The results are released as The Nation's Report Card, which provides information about student achievement to educators, parents/guardians, policymakers, and the public. Families of students selected to participate will be notified via email.

Student Services Updates  Student Services Newsletter

Happy March Cougars!  Take a look at Student Services March newsletterthat highlights upcoming events such as Junior Curriculum, the Northern Virginia Regional College Fair, Teen Job Series, and NOVA’s E-Summer Program.  The newsletter also contains helpful information regarding the FAFSA for senior families. 

Timeline for Schedule Changes

Please see the timeline below regarding schedule changes for the 2023-24 school year. 

• November 6 - March 22: Any student requesting a schedule change will need to fill out the schedule change request form, with permission from parent, student, teacher, school counselor, and administrator. If approved by the administration, schedule changes will only be processed if there is space available.
• After March 22: There will not be any schedule changes, regardless of space availability.  This date aligns with the last day of the 3rd Quarter.

To find out who your child's school counselor is, please visit our website.  

Service Learning Senior Service Learning Hours and X2VOL

The last day for Seniors to submit Service Learning hours to X2Vol for approval will be April 19th at 3pm. All Seniors must have submitted any hours prior to this date if they wish to have them approved for graduation awards and recognition. Please see the information provided below regarding graduation awards and recognition tied to Service Learning in FCPS. If you have any questions please reach out to Kimberly Stewart, our Service Learning Liaison, with your questions [email protected]. This date is for Seniors ONLY. All other underclass students may continue to submit Service Learning hours in X2VOL. Oakton High School Service Learning information can be found HERE.

Service-Learning for Graduates Service Learning Hours Cord: 40 hours 

This is separate from government.  Students can use the hours that they used for government, but they will need a total of 40 hours from the past 4 years in order to earn a service cord at graduation.

• Note to Underclassmen: Hours/Reflections will be recorded by the student on x2VOL website. 
• Note to current Seniors: You will not get the actual cord until graduation rehearsal.

Civics Seal Application: 50 hours

This is an application approved by the state of VA, and requires 50 hours of service, as well as a B average in History/Government. It will allow students to be eligible to receive a civics seal on their diploma. 

• Please talk to your Social Studies teacher for more information. 

Volunteer Fairfax

Volunteer Fairfax is a resource that can be used to find out about service-learning opportunities in the community. Service learning is a great way for students and families to engage with local nonprofits and volunteer. More information about Volunteer opportunities on this day can be found on Volunteer Fairfax’s website.

Disclaimer: Opportunities offered by organizations other than Fairfax County Public Schools are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or a specific school. These opportunities may utilize technology tools that have not been assessed by the Fairfax County Public Schools Department of Information Technology. Students should gain permission from their parent or guardian before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity and families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any technology platform that the enrichment opportunity may use before participating.

Class of 2024 Information Senior Letter 

An updated senior letter was emailed out on January 26.  That information has also been uploaded to the Oakton website and can be found here. This letter includes many updates from the September senior letter.  It also provides more information on how to pay senior dues and order a Class of 2024 t-shirt. 

ANGP Information 

It's hard to believe graduation is only a few months away! We can’t wait to celebrate the Class of 2024, their achievements, and the friendships and memories they have created over the past 4 years!

Every year the PTSA sponsors an All Night Grad Party (ANGP). The purpose of the ANGP is to give seniors a safe, alcohol-free and drug-free way to celebrate the night of their graduation.

This year's ANGP will be held at Launch Trampoline Park in Franklin Farm on Tuesday, June 11 from 9 PM - 2 AM. In addition to the trampolines, the kids will enjoy go-karts, an agility course, arcade games, casino games, great prizes, food, and more!!

Ticket sales and additional ANGP information coming soon!!

Questions? Want to volunteer? Email [email protected]

Health and Wellness Updates 2023-2024 Health & Safety Guidance for Schools

Be sure to review FCPS Health and Safety Guidance for the best ways to prevent the spread of disease and to find out when students should stay home from school.

Emergency Resources

Crisis Link Regional Hotline            703-527-4077

Crisis Text                                       Text NEEDHELP to 85511

Dominion Hospital Emergency       703-536-2000

INOVA Emergency                         703-289-7560

Merrifield Center Emergency         703-573-5979  TTY dial 711

Life Threatening                             911

Safety and Security Updates Safety Drills

Below is a list of safety drills that we will be practicing this school year. 

• Fire Evacuation Drills - Two within the first twenty school days, then one per month
• Lockdown Drills - Two per school year; one in the first twenty days of school (we have concluded all lockdown drills for this school year) 
• Bus Evacuation Drills - Two per school year; to be held within the first thirty school days of each semester 
• Tornado Drill - To be held in March 

Anonymous Tip Line Puts Safety First

If you or your child have concerns or information relating to feeling unsafe in any way at school, we encourage you to reach out to a member of the security or administrative team so that we may quickly address the issue.  Students and parents may also utilize the FCPS Office of Safety and Security safety tip line, that you can access anonymously online, by text (888-777; Keyword TIP FCPS), or by phone (571-423-2020).

If your tip is an emergency and immediate assistance is necessary, please dial 911.

Students, staff, and community members should report school safety issues such as threats, unsafe or dangerous situations, illegal drug activity, theft, gang activity, the existence of weapons, vandalism, and concerns about student wellness. Tip line users may identify themselves or remain anonymous.

Concerns that do not impact the safety of our schools—concerns or information about programs, regulations, or policies—can be sent to the FCPS ombudsman online, at 571-423-4014, or [email protected]. 

FCPS News

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

• Fiscal Year 2025 Proposed Budget
• Register for Superintendent Community Conversations
• Kindergarten Registration

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving the weekly newsletter, please sign up today. 

Family Engagement Survey

📩 The bi-annual FCPS Family Engagement Survey was emailed to families on Sunday, March 3! This is your chance to give feedback on your school's welcoming environment, communication, and other topics. Learn more on the FCPS website: 

https://bit.ly/FESURVEY2024

PTSA Updates

The Oakton PTSA Winter Fundraiser is underway. Your contributions, membership and donations  to the PTSA  go a long way in helping the PTSA provide for funds, events, and opportunities for the students and the teachers. Help us help our community by becoming a member, donations, and participation in our monthly meetings.  Click here for your memberships and contributions. 

Have any ideas or concerns,  email us at  [email protected]. 

For our announcements and updates ,the Oakton PTSA website. 

Oakton Pantry Pantry Update

It's time for some shout-outs to our incredible donors! Our first shout-out goes to the Oakton District Champion Swim and Dive Team. The team had another huge Pantry drive at their end of season banquet and we are so impressed and grateful! There is something extra special about students supporting their peers!

Shout-out #2 goes to the Oakton Boys Basketball program. Freshman, JV, and Varsity had a friendly competition to see which team could collect the most for the Pantry at their end of year banquet. We think it was a tie, but the end result was a fantastic collection for the Pantry! Thank you so much to everyone who contributed!

Our final shout-out goes to some very special visitors who came to the Pantry this week. Four SCA officers from Vienna Elementary along with SCA sponsor and school librarian, Mrs. Armendariz, dropped off 260 cans of food from their SOUPerbowl contest! Their idea was for kids to put a can by a Chiefs or 49rs sign depending on who they wanted to win the Super Bowl. The contest was a huge success and the students delivered everything and sorted and stacked it all incredibly neatly. Pantry volunteers explained the different aspects of the Pantry and the students listened closely and seemed very inspired to keep doing meaningful work -- it was a great visit!

General Information 

The Oakton Pantry is available to any Oakton student or neighbor who is in need. We stock non-perishable food, personal hygiene items, and household supplies. 

For assistance: [email protected] 

Volunteer/Questions: [email protected]

Donate via PayPal

Most needed items: website

Amazon Wish List 

Parent Resources Parent Information Line 

Parents who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese can call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS and to receive support if they are having difficulty communicating with their children's schools due to a language barrier.

Parent Resource Center 

The FCPS Parent Resource Center offers a wide variety of information and resources to support the success of all students.  This includes monthly workshops and webinars.  More information can be found on the FCPS website, including registration information.  

FCPS Cares

Do you know an Oakton High School or FCPS employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way or goes beyond what is expected?  If so, then click here to share with everyone. 

2900 Sutton Road, Vienna VA 22181 | Main Office: (703) 319-2700
Attendance: (703) 319-2727 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

如果您想以其他语言阅读此新闻时讯，请访问我们的网站。

이 소식지를 다른 언어로 읽으려면, 우리 웹사이트를 방문하시기 바랍니다.

.يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى

Be sure to follow us on Twitter (@OaktonHS), and Instagram @oaktonhs ! Be sure to check out our Oakton Accolades section on our website as we celebrate student achievement!  

Important Dates 

You can access the FCPS 2023-2024 school year calendar here.   

March 5 - No School for Students (Virtual School Planning Day - Primary Day) 

March 11 - Religious and Cultural Observance Day, First full day of Ramadan 

March 13 - Mission/Vision - Parent Meeting, 5pm 

March 20 - Mission/Vision - Parent Meeting, 5pm 

March 22 - Last Day of 3rd Quarter

March 25-29 - No School, Spring Break 

April 1 - Student Holiday, Teacher Workday

April 2 - Student Holiday, Staff Development Day 

April 10 - No School, Eid al Fitr

April 12 - Junior/Senior Prom 

General Information Oakton High School Mission and Vision Statements - Parent Feedback 

As shared in my email to the community last week, we will be working on our school mission and school vision statements over the next couple months.  We would love to here from you in that process.  You may respond to this quick survey where you can select your top wishes for the themes embodied in our school mission and vision statement (see questions 4 and 5).  Or, you may attend one of two in-person sessions to discuss the themes and what that looks like in action.  Both sessions will be the same so those interested may select the date that works best for them. 

• Wednesday, March 13 - 5:00 -6:00 pm (Lecture Hall)
• Wednesday, March 20 - 5:00-6:00pm (Lecture Hall) 

Course Registration 2024-25

Course registration for the 2024-2025 school year has begun!  Below are different ways students and parents can learn about the course offerings and when each grade level will register. 

Students and parents can find information about many of our classes, explained by our teachers, through our course offerings website . Additional information can be found on our academic advising and course offerings page. 

Registration: All students will have presentations from the counselors and then an individual meeting to confirm the classes they wish to enroll in.  The dates below may be adjusted as needed.  

It is incredibly important that students sign up for the classes they want to take.  We base our staffing decisions on these initial numbers. Deadlines to register for courses is March 1, 2024.

Rising Seniors - Class of 2025

• Classroom Presentations: January 4 & 5 through English classes
• 1:1 Registration with counselor: January 8 – 25 through Social Studies classes

Rising Juniors - Class of 2026

• Classroom Presentations: January 29 & 30 through English classes
• 1:1 Registration with counselor: January 31 – February 14 through Social Studies classes

Rising Sophomores - Class of 2027

• Classroom Presentations: February 15 & 16 through English classes
• 1:1 Registration with counselor: February 20 – March 1 through Social Studies classes

Rising Freshmen - Class of 2028

Counselor Presentations:

• January 9 – Carson Middle School
• January 11 – Franklin Middle School
• January 12 – Thoreau Middle School
• January 22 - Jackson Middle School 

Deadlines for course selection will be determined by the middle school; dates will vary by school.

Eating Disorder Parent Information

In 2013, Virginia passed a law requiring every school system to provide information to parents annually about eating disorders with parents/guardians of students in the fifth through twelfth grades. 

According to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA 2023),

Eating disorders are serious but treatable mental and physical illnesses that can affect people of all genders, ages, races, religions, ethnicities, sexual orientations, body shapes, and weights. In the United States, 28.8 million Americans will suffer from an eating disorder at some point in their lives.

There is no single cause of an eating disorder. Rather, it is a complex combination of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors that converge and set off an individual’s predisposed genetic vulnerability.

In collaboration with the Fairfax County Health Department, FCPS has developed a web page with detailed information and resources about eating disorders.  To find out more, please visit the FCPS Eating Disorders website.

In addition to the information on the FCPS website, the National Eating Disorders Association has a toll free, confidential Helpline, 1-800-931-2237.

Learner Permit Testing Dates

If you would like to sign your student up for their learner's permit driving test, please see this document for dates and registration information.  This also includes resources to help students prepare.  

Partners for Safe Teen Driving Presentation

All students enrolled in Classroom Driver Education during the 2023-2024 school year must attend an in-person Partners for Safe Teen Driving (PSTD). The presentation is connected to successful classroom instruction and must be completed to receive a DEC-District 8 card (pink card). The parent-teen traffic safety presentation (PSTD) will be offered multiple times during the school year at Oakton. Students and their parents/guardians should plan to attend the presentation at Oakton at your earliest convenience.  

All PSTDs begin promptly. Late admission will not be allowed. 

2023-2024 Dates:

1. Wednesday, January 31, 6:30pm in the Auditorium (Rescheduled from January 16 Snow Day)
2. Tuesday, March 19, 6:30pm in the Auditorium
3. Wednesday, May 29, 6:30pm in the Auditorium

These sessions are intended for Sophomores. Juniors and Seniors can attend a session through Adult and Community Education.

PSTD nights are not available to freshmen.

Yearbook Sales

Yearbooks and senior baby ads for the 2023-2024 school year are now on sale! You can purchase yearbook packages at www.yearbookordercenter.com using the code 4770. Standalone yearbooks are also available via MySchoolBucks. Prices start at $67 and will increase throughout the year, so buy early to save. Don’t wait – the last two years sold out. Please note that senior baby ads are sold out at this time.  Questions? Email [email protected]

Fairfax County Teen Job Fair Series

Looking for a job or volunteer opportunity? All students are invited to attend the 2024 Fairfax County Teen Job Fair Series and Career Building Workshops sponsored by Springfield District Supervisor Pat Herrity with FCPS kicking off Saturday, March 2nd from 11am to 1pm at Chantilly High School and on Saturday, March 9th at West Springfield High School from 11am to 1pm. At each fair, students will have the opportunity to engage with employers offering part-time, full-time, seasonal, and volunteer positions. During the fairs, students will also be able to attend career-building workshops like Resume Building and Interviewing 101. Most positions at the fair are geared toward students age 16+, but some opportunities for younger students may be available with parental consent. Registration is free here and at the fairs. For more information, or to register, please visit the Teen Job Fair webpage.

Testing Updates  WIDA Testing

WIDA testing will begin on Monday, January 29- February 29 with more than 180 students at Oakton scheduled to complete the four-part WIDA. Federal law requires that all Level 1-5 English Learners (ELs) participate annually in an English Language proficiency assessment. WIDA Access for ELLs consists of the following parts: Reading, Listening, Writing, and Speaking. Students will take the four parts of WIDA over 3 test sessions. This assessment determines a student’s English language proficiency level, eligibility for ESOL services and testing accommodations. It also provides teachers with information they can use to plan for and support students’ learning. Students and parents/guardians will be notified of testing schedules via email.  

National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) 

Oakton High will participate in the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) on Thursday, March 21, 2024. This is a new date from the originally scheduled date of February 13, 2024.  NAEP reached out late last week to reschedule the administration of this test.  NAEP is the largest nationally representative and continuing assessment of what students know and can do in various subjects. NAEP is administered by the National Center for Education Statistics, within the U.S. Department of Education. NAEP is different from our state assessments because it is a common measure of achievement across the country. The results are released as The Nation's Report Card, which provides information about student achievement to educators, parents/guardians, policymakers, and the public. Families of students selected to participate will be notified via email.

Student Services Updates  Student Services Newsletter

Happy February Cougar Families!  Check out this month’s Student Services Newsletter that highlights Junior Family College Night, course registration information, summer school, and upcoming events.  One event is the US Service Academy and ROTC Night on February 13 at 7pm.  Madison HS is hosting representatives from Military Academies and ROTC Programs as well as a representative from Gerry Connolly’s Office who will talk about the nomination process. 

Timeline for Schedule Changes

Please see the timeline below regarding schedule changes for the 2023-24 school year. 

• November 6 - March 22: Any student requesting a schedule change will need to fill out the schedule change request form, with permission from parent, student, teacher, school counselor, and administrator. If approved by the administration, schedule changes will only be processed if there is space available.
• After March 22: There will not be any schedule changes, regardless of space availability.  This date aligns with the last day of the 3rd Quarter.

To find out who your child's school counselor is, please visit our website.  

Service Learning Senior Service Learning Hours and X2VOL

The last day for Seniors to submit Service Learning hours to X2Vol for approval will be April 19th at 3pm. All Seniors must have submitted any hours prior to this date if they wish to have them approved for graduation awards and recognition. Please see the information provided below regarding graduation awards and recognition tied to Service Learning in FCPS. If you have any questions please reach out to Kimberly Stewart, our Service Learning Liaison, with your questions [email protected]. This date is for Seniors ONLY. All other underclass students may continue to submit Service Learning hours in X2VOL. Oakton High School Service Learning information can be found HERE.

Service-Learning for Graduates Service Learning Hours Cord: 40 hours 

This is separate from government.  Students can use the hours that they used for government, but they will need a total of 40 hours from the past 4 years in order to earn a service cord at graduation.

• Note to Underclassmen: Hours/Reflections will be recorded by the student on x2VOL website. 
• Note to current Seniors: You will not get the actual cord until graduation rehearsal.

Civics Seal Application: 50 hours

This is an application approved by the state of VA, and requires 50 hours of service, as well as a B average in History/Government. It will allow students to be eligible to receive a civics seal on their diploma. 

• Please talk to your Social Studies teacher for more information. 

Volunteer Fairfax

Volunteer Fairfax is a resource that can be used to find out about service-learning opportunities in the community. Service learning is a great way for students and families to engage with local nonprofits and volunteer. More information about Volunteer opportunities on this day can be found on Volunteer Fairfax’s website.

Disclaimer: Opportunities offered by organizations other than Fairfax County Public Schools are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or a specific school. These opportunities may utilize technology tools that have not been assessed by the Fairfax County Public Schools Department of Information Technology. Students should gain permission from their parent or guardian before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity and families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any technology platform that the enrichment opportunity may use before participating.

Class of 2024 Information Senior Letter 

An updated senior letter was emailed out on January 26.  That information has also been uploaded to the Oakton website and can be found here. This letter includes many updates from the September senior letter.  It also provides more information on how to pay senior dues and order a Class of 2024 t-shirt. 

Health and Wellness Updates 2023-2024 Health & Safety Guidance for Schools

Be sure to review FCPS Health and Safety Guidance for the best ways to prevent the spread of disease and to find out when students should stay home from school.

Emergency Resources

Crisis Link Regional Hotline            703-527-4077

Crisis Text                                       Text NEEDHELP to 85511

Dominion Hospital Emergency       703-536-2000

INOVA Emergency                         703-289-7560

Merrifield Center Emergency         703-573-5979  TTY dial 711

Life Threatening                             911

Safety and Security Updates Safety Drills

Below is a list of safety drills that we will be practicing this school year. 

• Fire Evacuation Drills - Two within the first twenty school days, then one per month
• Lockdown Drills - Two per school year; one in the first twenty days of school 
• Bus Evacuation Drills - Two per school year; to be held within the first thirty school days of each semester 
• Tornado Drill - To be held in March 

Anonymous Tip Line Puts Safety First

If you or your child have concerns or information relating to feeling unsafe in any way at school, we encourage you to reach out to a member of the security or administrative team so that we may quickly address the issue.  Students and parents may also utilize the FCPS Office of Safety and Security safety tip line, that you can access anonymously online, by text (888-777; Keyword TIP FCPS), or by phone (571-423-2020).

If your tip is an emergency and immediate assistance is necessary, please dial 911.

Students, staff, and community members should report school safety issues such as threats, unsafe or dangerous situations, illegal drug activity, theft, gang activity, the existence of weapons, vandalism, and concerns about student wellness. Tip line users may identify themselves or remain anonymous.

Concerns that do not impact the safety of our schools—concerns or information about programs, regulations, or policies—can be sent to the FCPS ombudsman online, at 571-423-4014, or [email protected]. 

FCPS News

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

• Fiscal Year 2025 Proposed Budget
• Register for Superintendent Community Conversations
• Kindergarten Registration

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving the weekly newsletter, please sign up today. 

PTSA Updates

The Oakton PTSA Winter Fundraiser is underway. Your contributions, membership and donations  to the PTSA  go a long way in helping the PTSA provide for funds, events, and opportunities for the students and the teachers. Help us help our community by becoming a member, donations, and participation in our monthly meetings.  Click here for your memberships and contributions. 

Have any ideas or concerns,  email us at  [email protected]. 

The Oakton PTSA is looking for parent volunteers for the following positions:

• ANGP Party Chair
• Secretary
• Hospitality Chair

Please email us at [email protected]. 

For our announcements and updates ,the Oakton PTSA website. 

Oakton Pantry General Information 

The Oakton Pantry is available to any Oakton student or neighbor who is in need. We stock non-perishable food, personal hygiene items, and household supplies. 

For assistance: [email protected] 

Volunteer/Questions: [email protected]

Donate via PayPal

Most needed items: website

Amazon Wish List 

Parent Resources Parent Information Line 

Parents who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese can call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS and to receive support if they are having difficulty communicating with their children's schools due to a language barrier.

Parent Resource Center 

The FCPS Parent Resource Center offers a wide variety of information and resources to support the success of all students.  This includes monthly workshops and webinars.  More information can be found on the FCPS website, including registration information.  

FCPS Cares

Do you know an Oakton High School or FCPS employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way or goes beyond what is expected?  If so, then click here to share with everyone. 

2900 Sutton Road, Vienna VA 22181 | Main Office: (703) 319-2700
Attendance: (703) 319-2727 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

如果您想以其他语言阅读此新闻时讯，请访问我们的网站。

이 소식지를 다른 언어로 읽으려면, 우리 웹사이트를 방문하시기 바랍니다.

.يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى

Be sure to follow us on Twitter (@OaktonHS), and Instagram @oaktonhs ! Be sure to check out our Oakton Accolades section on our website as we celebrate student achievement!  

Important Dates 

You can access the FCPS 2023-2024 school year calendar here.   

February 19 - No School (Presidents' Day); Spring Sports Tryouts begin

March 5 - No School for Students (Virtual School Planning Day - Primary Day) 

March 11 - Religious and Cultural Observance Day, First full day of Ramadan 

March 22 - Last Day of 3rd Quarter

March 25-29 - No School, Spring Break 

April 1 - Student Holiday, Teacher Workday

April 2 - Student Holiday, Staff Development Day 

April 10 - No School, Eid al Fitr

April 12 - Junior/Senior Prom 

General Information Course Registration 2024-25

Course registration for the 2024-2025 school year has begun!  Below are different ways students and parents can learn about the course offerings and when each grade level will register. 

Students and parents can find information about many of our classes, explained by our teachers, through our course offerings website . Additional information can be found on our academic advising and course offerings page. 

Registration: All students will have presentations from the counselors and then an individual meeting to confirm the classes they wish to enroll in.  The dates below may be adjusted as needed.  

It is incredibly important that students sign up for the classes they want to take.  We base our staffing decisions on these initial numbers. Deadlines to register for courses is March 1, 2024.

Rising Seniors - Class of 2025

• Classroom Presentations: January 4 & 5 through English classes
• 1:1 Registration with counselor: January 8 – 25 through Social Studies classes

Rising Juniors - Class of 2026

• Classroom Presentations: January 29 & 30 through English classes
• 1:1 Registration with counselor: January 31 – February 14 through Social Studies classes

Rising Sophomores - Class of 2027

• Classroom Presentations: February 15 & 16 through English classes
• 1:1 Registration with counselor: February 20 – March 1 through Social Studies classes

Rising Freshmen - Class of 2028

Counselor Presentations:

• January 9 – Carson Middle School
• January 11 – Franklin Middle School
• January 12 – Thoreau Middle School
• January 22 - Jackson Middle School 

Deadlines for course selection will be determined by the middle school; dates will vary by school.

Spring Sports Tryout Information - Feb. 19

Tryouts for spring sports will start on Monday, February 19th (note: this is a school holiday) and will run for 3 days.  Athletes must attend 3 days of tryouts to be considered.

BEFORE students can tryout they must have a current VHSL physical on file dated after May 1, 2023 as well as the online registration filled out.  

Athletes should check back for timing of individual tryout times for each sport on our Oakton Athletics site. 

Monday, February 26th there will be a parent meeting/ “meet the teams” pep rally followed by individual break out sessions with Coaches.

Wednesday, February 28th will be team photos after school (schedule TBA)

Please email individual coaches with questions.

Eating Disorder Parent Information

In 2013, Virginia passed a law requiring every school system to provide information to parents annually about eating disorders with parents/guardians of students in the fifth through twelfth grades. 

According to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA 2023),

Eating disorders are serious but treatable mental and physical illnesses that can affect people of all genders, ages, races, religions, ethnicities, sexual orientations, body shapes, and weights. In the United States, 28.8 million Americans will suffer from an eating disorder at some point in their lives.

There is no single cause of an eating disorder. Rather, it is a complex combination of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors that converge and set off an individual’s predisposed genetic vulnerability.

In collaboration with the Fairfax County Health Department, FCPS has developed a web page with detailed information and resources about eating disorders.  To find out more, please visit the FCPS Eating Disorders website.

In addition to the information on the FCPS website, the National Eating Disorders Association has a toll free, confidential Helpline, 1-800-931-2237.

Learner Permit Testing Dates

If you would like to sign your student up for their learner's permit driving test, please see this document for dates and registration information.  This also includes resources to help students prepare.  

Partners for Safe Teen Driving Presentation

All students enrolled in Classroom Driver Education during the 2023-2024 school year must attend an in-person Partners for Safe Teen Driving (PSTD). The presentation is connected to successful classroom instruction and must be completed to receive a DEC-District 8 card (pink card). The parent-teen traffic safety presentation (PSTD) will be offered multiple times during the school year at Oakton. Students and their parents/guardians should plan to attend the presentation at Oakton at your earliest convenience.  

All PSTDs begin promptly. Late admission will not be allowed. 

2023-2024 Dates:

1. Wednesday, January 31, 6:30pm in the Auditorium (Rescheduled from January 16 Snow Day)
2. Tuesday, March 19, 6:30pm in the Auditorium
3. Wednesday, May 29, 6:30pm in the Auditorium

These sessions are intended for Sophomores. Juniors and Seniors can attend a session through Adult and Community Education.

PSTD nights are not available to freshmen.

Yearbooks and Senior Baby Ads

Yearbooks and senior baby ads for the 2023-2024 school year are now on sale! You can purchase yearbook packages and senior baby ads at www.yearbookordercenter.com using the code 4770. Standalone yearbooks are also available via MySchoolBucks. Prices start at $67 and will increase throughout the year, so buy early to save. Don’t wait – the last two years sold out. Questions? Email [email protected]

Fairfax County Teen Job Fair Series

Looking for a job or volunteer opportunity? All students are invited to attend the 2024 Fairfax County Teen Job Fair Series and Career Building Workshops sponsored by Springfield District Supervisor Pat Herrity with FCPS kicking off Saturday, March 2nd from 11am to 1pm at Chantilly High School and on Saturday, March 9th at West Springfield High School from 11am to 1pm. At each fair, students will have the opportunity to engage with employers offering part-time, full-time, seasonal, and volunteer positions. During the fairs, students will also be able to attend career-building workshops like Resume Building and Interviewing 101. Most positions at the fair are geared toward students age 16+, but some opportunities for younger students may be available with parental consent. Registration is free here and at the fairs. For more information, or to register, please visit the Teen Job Fair webpage.

Testing Updates  WIDA Testing

WIDA testing will begin on Monday, January 29- February 29 with more than 180 students at Oakton scheduled to complete the four-part WIDA. Federal law requires that all Level 1-5 English Learners (ELs) participate annually in an English Language proficiency assessment. WIDA Access for ELLs consists of the following parts: Reading, Listening, Writing, and Speaking. Students will take the four parts of WIDA over 3 test sessions. This assessment determines a student’s English language proficiency level, eligibility for ESOL services and testing accommodations. It also provides teachers with information they can use to plan for and support students’ learning. Students and parents/guardians will be notified of testing schedules via email.  

National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) 

Oakton High will participate in the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) on Thursday, March 21, 2024. This is a new date from the originally scheduled date of February 13, 2024.  NAEP reached out late last week to reschedule the administration of this test.  NAEP is the largest nationally representative and continuing assessment of what students know and can do in various subjects. NAEP is administered by the National Center for Education Statistics, within the U.S. Department of Education. NAEP is different from our state assessments because it is a common measure of achievement across the country. The results are released as The Nation's Report Card, which provides information about student achievement to educators, parents/guardians, policymakers, and the public. Families of students selected to participate will be notified via email.

Student Services Updates  Student Services Newsletter

Happy February Cougar Families!  Check out this month’s Student Services Newsletter that highlights Junior Family College Night, course registration information, summer school, and upcoming events.  One event is the US Service Academy and ROTC Night on February 13 at 7pm.  Madison HS is hosting representatives from Military Academies and ROTC Programs as well as a representative from Gerry Connolly’s Office who will talk about the nomination process. 

Timeline for Schedule Changes

Please see the timeline below regarding schedule changes for the 2023-24 school year. 

• November 6 - March 22: Any student requesting a schedule change will need to fill out the schedule change request form, with permission from parent, student, teacher, school counselor, and administrator. If approved by the administration, schedule changes will only be processed if there is space available.
• After March 22: There will not be any schedule changes, regardless of space availability.  This date aligns with the last day of the 3rd Quarter.

To find out who your child's school counselor is, please visit our website.  

Service Learning Senior Service Learning Hours and X2VOL

The last day for Seniors to submit Service Learning hours to X2Vol for approval will be April 19th at 3pm. All Seniors must have submitted any hours prior to this date if they wish to have them approved for graduation awards and recognition. Please see the information provided below regarding graduation awards and recognition tied to Service Learning in FCPS. If you have any questions please reach out to Kimberly Stewart, our Service Learning Liaison, with your questions [email protected]. This date is for Seniors ONLY. All other underclass students may continue to submit Service Learning hours in X2VOL. Oakton High School Service Learning information can be found HERE.

Service-Learning for Graduates Service Learning Hours Cord: 40 hours 

This is separate from government.  Students can use the hours that they used for government, but they will need a total of 40 hours from the past 4 years in order to earn a service cord at graduation.

• Note to Underclassmen: Hours/Reflections will be recorded by the student on x2VOL website. 
• Note to current Seniors: You will not get the actual cord until graduation rehearsal.

Civics Seal Application: 50 hours

This is an application approved by the state of VA, and requires 50 hours of service, as well as a B average in History/Government. It will allow students to be eligible to receive a civics seal on their diploma. 

• Please talk to your Social Studies teacher for more information. 

Volunteer Fairfax

Volunteer Fairfax is a resource that can be used to find out about service-learning opportunities in the community. Service learning is a great way for students and families to engage with local nonprofits and volunteer. More information about Volunteer opportunities on this day can be found on Volunteer Fairfax’s website.

Disclaimer: Opportunities offered by organizations other than Fairfax County Public Schools are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or a specific school. These opportunities may utilize technology tools that have not been assessed by the Fairfax County Public Schools Department of Information Technology. Students should gain permission from their parent or guardian before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity and families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any technology platform that the enrichment opportunity may use before participating.

Class of 2024 Information Senior Letter 

An updated senior letter was emailed out on January 26.  That information has also been uploaded to the Oakton website and can be found here. This letter includes many updates from the September senior letter.  It also provides more information on how to pay senior dues and order a Class of 2024 t-shirt. 

Health and Wellness Updates 2023-2024 Health & Safety Guidance for Schools

Be sure to review FCPS Health and Safety Guidance for the best ways to prevent the spread of disease and to find out when students should stay home from school.

Emergency Resources

Crisis Link Regional Hotline            703-527-4077

Crisis Text                                       Text NEEDHELP to 85511

Dominion Hospital Emergency       703-536-2000

INOVA Emergency                         703-289-7560

Merrifield Center Emergency         703-573-5979  TTY dial 711

Life Threatening                             911

Safety and Security Updates Safety Drills

Below is a list of safety drills that we will be practicing this school year. 

• Fire Evacuation Drills - Two within the first twenty school days, then one per month
• Lockdown Drills - Two per school year; one in the first twenty days of school 
• Bus Evacuation Drills - Two per school year; to be held within the first thirty school days of each semester 
• Tornado Drill - To be held in March 

Anonymous Tip Line Puts Safety First

If you or your child have concerns or information relating to feeling unsafe in any way at school, we encourage you to reach out to a member of the security or administrative team so that we may quickly address the issue.  Students and parents may also utilize the FCPS Office of Safety and Security safety tip line, that you can access anonymously online, by text (888-777; Keyword TIP FCPS), or by phone (571-423-2020).

If your tip is an emergency and immediate assistance is necessary, please dial 911.

Students, staff, and community members should report school safety issues such as threats, unsafe or dangerous situations, illegal drug activity, theft, gang activity, the existence of weapons, vandalism, and concerns about student wellness. Tip line users may identify themselves or remain anonymous.

Concerns that do not impact the safety of our schools—concerns or information about programs, regulations, or policies—can be sent to the FCPS ombudsman online, at 571-423-4014, or [email protected]. 

FCPS News

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

• Fiscal Year 2025 Proposed Budget
• Register for Superintendent Community Conversations
• Kindergarten Registration

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving the weekly newsletter, please sign up today. 

PTSA Updates

The Oakton PTSA Winter Fundraiser is underway. Your contributions, membership and donations  to the PTSA  go a long way in helping the PTSA provide for funds, events, and opportunities for the students and the teachers. Help us help our community by becoming a member, donations, and participation in our monthly meetings.  Click here for your memberships and contributions. 

Have any ideas or concerns,  email us at  [email protected]. 

 

The Oakton PTSA is looking for parent volunteers for the following positions:

• ANGP Party Chair
• Secretary
• Hospitality Chair

Please email us at [email protected]. 

For our announcements and updates ,the Oakton PTSA website. 

Oakton Pantry General Information 

The Oakton Pantry is available to any Oakton student or neighbor who is in need. We stock non-perishable food, personal hygiene items, and household supplies. 

For assistance: [email protected] 

Volunteer/Questions: [email protected]

Donate via PayPal

Most needed items: website

Amazon Wish List 

Parent Resources Parent Information Line 

Parents who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese can call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS and to receive support if they are having difficulty communicating with their children's schools due to a language barrier.

Parent Resource Center 

The FCPS Parent Resource Center offers a wide variety of information and resources to support the success of all students.  This includes monthly workshops and webinars.  More information can be found on the FCPS website, including registration information.  

FCPS Cares

Do you know an Oakton High School or FCPS employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way or goes beyond what is expected?  If so, then click here to share with everyone. 

2900 Sutton Road, Vienna VA 22181 | Main Office: (703) 319-2700
Attendance: (703) 319-2727 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

如果您想以其他语言阅读此新闻时讯，请访问我们的网站。

이 소식지를 다른 언어로 읽으려면, 우리 웹사이트를 방문하시기 바랍니다.

.يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى

Be sure to follow us on Twitter (@OaktonHS), and Instagram @oaktonhs ! Be sure to check out our Oakton Accolades section on our website as we celebrate student achievement!  

Important Dates 

You can access the FCPS 2023-2024 school year calendar here.   

February 12-16 - Kindness Week (Led by Cougar Leadership students)

February 14 - Capitol Hill Field Trip (12th grade students); Happy Valentines Day! 

February 17 - Instruction 2 Industry Career Fair Exhibition (see below) 

February 19 - No School (Presidents' Day); Spring Sports Tryouts begin

March 5 - No School for Students (Virtual School Planning Day - Primary Day) 

March 11 - Religious and Cultural Observance Day, First full day of Ramadan 

March 22 - Last Day of 3rd Quarter

March 25-29 - No School, Spring Break 

General Information Oakton Accolades

The Oakton Accolades page has been updated to reflect many student and school accomplishments for the month of January.  Be sure to check it out!

Kindness Spirit Week 

The Oakton community is invited to participate in Kindness Spirit Week.  Below are the activities and spirit days planned for next week.  In addition students filled out paper hearts today (February 5) during Cougar Connect with someone in the Oakton community they were thankful for.  Those will be compiled into a display in the hallway for students to see.  

• Monday, February 12: Dream of Kindness - PJ Day; Lollipops at Door 1 & 6 before school
• Tuesday, February 13: Fueled by Kindness - Wear Purple; Positive Post-it Notes will be on desks throughout the building for as students arrive
• Wednesday, February 14: Love Yourself - Wear Pink and Red; Happy Valentines Day!  
• Thursday, February 15: Team Kindness - Wear Favorite Team Jersey; Candy Grams distributed (on sale this week through February 8)
• Friday, February 16: We are Oakton - Wear Oakton Merch; Free hot chocolate in the canteen in the morning (while supplies last)

School Climate Survey - Students

Oakton High School, in cooperation with the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services and the Virginia Department of Education, is offering the Virginia School Survey of Climate and Working Conditions to all of our students and staff this month.

The purpose of the student survey is to measure student support, student engagement, school discipline, and safety conditions in each school. This information will be used to guide educational practices that produce a safe and supportive school environment. In order to get meaningful data we would like as many students to participate in the survey as possible. Students had two previous opportunities to participate during Cougar Connect meetings.

At this point, we are still under 50% for total student participation.  Students will have another opportunity on Thursday during Cougar Time 7 to complete the survey.  If you have not opted your child out, please encourage them to take the survey.  

Course Registration 2024-25

Course registration for the 2024-2025 school year has begun!  Below are different ways students and parents can learn about the course offerings and when each grade level will register. 

Students and parents can find information about many of our classes, explained by our teachers, through our course offerings website . Additional information can be found on our academic advising and course offerings page. 

Registration: All students will have presentations from the counselors and then an individual meeting to confirm the classes they wish to enroll in.  The dates below may be adjusted as needed.  

It is incredibly important that students sign up for the classes they want to take.  We base our staffing decisions on these initial numbers. Deadlines to register for courses is March 1, 2024.

Rising Seniors - Class of 2025

• Classroom Presentations: January 4 & 5 through English classes
• 1:1 Registration with counselor: January 8 – 25 through Social Studies classes

Rising Juniors - Class of 2026

• Classroom Presentations: January 29 & 30 through English classes
• 1:1 Registration with counselor: January 31 – February 14 through Social Studies classes

Rising Sophomores - Class of 2027

• Classroom Presentations: February 15 & 16 through English classes
• 1:1 Registration with counselor: February 20 – March 1 through Social Studies classes

Rising Freshmen - Class of 2028

Counselor Presentations:

• January 9 – Carson Middle School
• January 11 – Franklin Middle School
• January 12 – Thoreau Middle School
• January 22 - Jackson Middle School 

Deadlines for course selection will be determined by the middle school; dates will vary by school.

Spring Sports Tryout Information - Feb. 19

Tryouts for spring sports will start on Monday, February 19th (note: this is a school holiday) and will run for 3 days.  Athletes must attend 3 days of tryouts to be considered.

BEFORE students can tryout they must have a current VHSL physical on file dated after May 1, 2023 as well as the online registration filled out. 

On Thursday, February 15, students may have their paperwork checked in the gym lobby during Cougar Time 7 or Cougar Time 8 to ensure they are ready for tryouts.  

Athletes should check back for timing of individual tryout times for each sport on our Oakton Athletics site. 

Monday, February 26th there will be a parent meeting/ “meet the teams” pep rally followed by individual break out sessions with Coaches.

Wednesday, February 28th will be team photos after school (schedule TBA)

Please email individual coaches with questions.

Learner Permit Testing Dates

If you would like to sign your student up for their learner's permit driving test, please see this document for dates and registration information.  This also includes resources to help students prepare.  

Partners for Safe Teen Driving Presentation

All students enrolled in Classroom Driver Education during the 2023-2024 school year must attend an in-person Partners for Safe Teen Driving (PSTD). The presentation is connected to successful classroom instruction and must be completed to receive a DEC-District 8 card (pink card). The parent-teen traffic safety presentation (PSTD) will be offered multiple times during the school year at Oakton. Students and their parents/guardians should plan to attend the presentation at Oakton at your earliest convenience.  

All PSTDs begin promptly. Late admission will not be allowed. 

2023-2024 Dates:

1. Wednesday, January 31, 6:30pm in the Auditorium (Rescheduled from January 16 Snow Day)
2. Tuesday, March 19, 6:30pm in the Auditorium
3. Wednesday, May 29, 6:30pm in the Auditorium

These sessions are intended for Sophomores. Juniors and Seniors can attend a session through Adult and Community Education.

PSTD nights are not available to freshmen.

Yearbooks and Senior Baby Ads

Yearbooks and senior baby ads for the 2023-2024 school year are now on sale! You can purchase yearbook packages and senior baby ads at www.yearbookordercenter.com using the code 4770. Standalone yearbooks are also available via MySchoolBucks. Prices start at $67 and will increase throughout the year, so buy early to save. Don’t wait – the last two years sold out. Questions? Email [email protected]

Instruction 2 Industry Career Expo Events

In February, school divisions across the region will team up with Virginia Ed Strategies to host the annual Instruction 2 Industry Career Expo event. This Northern Virginia regional event will allow high school students to connect virtually and in person, with more than 60 local industry professionals from in-demand career fields. 

The purpose of these FREE career exploration events is to provide students with opportunities to prepare for tomorrow’s workforce today. 

The in-person Career Expo and Job Fair event will be held on Saturday, February 17, from 1-4 p.m., in the North Hall of the Dulles Expo Center. 

Students should register today on the Instruction 2 Industry Events Page

Fairfax County Teen Job Fair Series

Looking for a job or volunteer opportunity? All students are invited to attend the 2024 Fairfax County Teen Job Fair Series and Career Building Workshops sponsored by Springfield District Supervisor Pat Herrity with FCPS kicking off Saturday, March 2nd from 11am to 1pm at Chantilly High School and on Saturday, March 9th at West Springfield High School from 11am to 1pm. At each fair, students will have the opportunity to engage with employers offering part-time, full-time, seasonal, and volunteer positions. During the fairs, students will also be able to attend career-building workshops like Resume Building and Interviewing 101. Most positions at the fair are geared toward students age 16+, but some opportunities for younger students may be available with parental consent. Registration is free here and at the fairs. For more information, or to register, please visit the Teen Job Fair webpage.

Testing Updates  WIDA Testing

WIDA testing will begin on Monday, January 29- February 29 with more than 180 students at Oakton scheduled to complete the four-part WIDA. Federal law requires that all Level 1-5 English Learners (ELs) participate annually in an English Language proficiency assessment. WIDA Access for ELLs consists of the following parts: Reading, Listening, Writing, and Speaking. Students will take the four parts of WIDA over 3 test sessions. This assessment determines a student’s English language proficiency level, eligibility for ESOL services and testing accommodations. It also provides teachers with information they can use to plan for and support students’ learning. Students and parents/guardians will be notified of testing schedules via email.  

National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) 

Oakton High will participate in the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) on Thursday, March 21, 2024. This is a new date from the originally scheduled date of February 13, 2024.  NAEP reached out late last week to reschedule the administration of this test.  NAEP is the largest nationally representative and continuing assessment of what students know and can do in various subjects. NAEP is administered by the National Center for Education Statistics, within the U.S. Department of Education. NAEP is different from our state assessments because it is a common measure of achievement across the country. The results are released as The Nation's Report Card, which provides information about student achievement to educators, parents/guardians, policymakers, and the public. Families of students selected to participate will be notified via email.

Student Services Updates  Student Services Newsletter

Happy February Cougar Families!  Check out this month’s Student Services Newsletter that highlights Junior Family College Night, course registration information, summer school, and upcoming events.  One event is the US Service Academy and ROTC Night on February 13 at 7pm.  Madison HS is hosting representatives from Military Academies and ROTC Programs as well as a representative from Gerry Connolly’s Office who will talk about the nomination process. 

Timeline for Schedule Changes

Please see the timeline below regarding schedule changes for the 2023-24 school year. 

• November 6 - March 22: Any student requesting a schedule change will need to fill out the schedule change request form, with permission from parent, student, teacher, school counselor, and administrator. If approved by the administration, schedule changes will only be processed if there is space available.
• After March 22: There will not be any schedule changes, regardless of space availability.  This date aligns with the last day of the 3rd Quarter.

To find out who your child's school counselor is, please visit our website.  

Service Learning Senior Service Learning Hours and X2VOL

The last day for Seniors to submit Service Learning hours to X2Vol for approval will be April 19th at 3pm. All Seniors must have submitted any hours prior to this date if they wish to have them approved for graduation awards and recognition. Please see the information provided below regarding graduation awards and recognition tied to Service Learning in FCPS. If you have any questions please reach out to Kimberly Stewart, our Service Learning Liaison, with your questions [email protected]. This date is for Seniors ONLY. All other underclass students may continue to submit Service Learning hours in X2VOL. Oakton High School Service Learning information can be found HERE.

Service-Learning for Graduates Service Learning Hours Cord: 40 hours 

This is separate from government.  Students can use the hours that they used for government, but they will need a total of 40 hours from the past 4 years in order to earn a service cord at graduation.

• Note to Underclassmen: Hours/Reflections will be recorded by the student on x2VOL website. 
• Note to current Seniors: You will not get the actual cord until graduation rehearsal.

Civics Seal Application: 50 hours

This is an application approved by the state of VA, and requires 50 hours of service, as well as a B average in History/Government. It will allow students to be eligible to receive a civics seal on their diploma. 

• Please talk to your Social Studies teacher for more information. 

Volunteer Fairfax

Volunteer Fairfax is a resource that can be used to find out about service-learning opportunities in the community. Service learning is a great way for students and families to engage with local nonprofits and volunteer. More information about Volunteer opportunities on this day can be found on Volunteer Fairfax’s website.

Disclaimer: Opportunities offered by organizations other than Fairfax County Public Schools are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or a specific school. These opportunities may utilize technology tools that have not been assessed by the Fairfax County Public Schools Department of Information Technology. Students should gain permission from their parent or guardian before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity and families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any technology platform that the enrichment opportunity may use before participating.

Class of 2024 Information Senior Letter 

An updated senior letter was emailed out on January 26.  That information has also been uploaded to the Oakton website and can be found here. This letter includes many updates from the September senior letter.  It also provides more information on how to pay senior dues and order a Class of 2024 t-shirt. 

Health and Wellness Updates 2023-2024 Health & Safety Guidance for Schools

Be sure to review FCPS Health and Safety Guidance for the best ways to prevent the spread of disease and to find out when students should stay home from school.

Emergency Resources

Crisis Link Regional Hotline            703-527-4077

Crisis Text                                       Text NEEDHELP to 85511

Dominion Hospital Emergency       703-536-2000

INOVA Emergency                         703-289-7560

Merrifield Center Emergency         703-573-5979  TTY dial 711

Life Threatening                             911

Safety and Security Updates Safety Drills

Below is a list of safety drills that we will be practicing this school year. 

• Fire Evacuation Drills - Two within the first twenty school days, then one per month
• Lockdown Drills - Two per school year; one in the first twenty days of school 
• Bus Evacuation Drills - Two per school year; to be held within the first thirty school days of each semester 
• Tornado Drill - To be held in March 

Anonymous Tip Line Puts Safety First

If you or your child have concerns or information relating to feeling unsafe in any way at school, we encourage you to reach out to a member of the security or administrative team so that we may quickly address the issue.  Students and parents may also utilize the FCPS Office of Safety and Security safety tip line, that you can access anonymously online, by text (888-777; Keyword TIP FCPS), or by phone (571-423-2020).

If your tip is an emergency and immediate assistance is necessary, please dial 911.

Students, staff, and community members should report school safety issues such as threats, unsafe or dangerous situations, illegal drug activity, theft, gang activity, the existence of weapons, vandalism, and concerns about student wellness. Tip line users may identify themselves or remain anonymous.

Concerns that do not impact the safety of our schools—concerns or information about programs, regulations, or policies—can be sent to the FCPS ombudsman online, at 571-423-4014, or [email protected]. 

FCPS News

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

• Summer Camp and Learning Opportunities
• Science, Technology, and Arts Magnet Schools
• Check Schoology for Teacher-Referred Tutoring

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving the weekly newsletter, please sign up today. 

PTSA Updates

The Oakton PTSA Winter Fundraiser is underway. Your contributions, membership and donations  to the PTSA  go a long way in helping the PTSA provide for funds, events, and opportunities for the students and the teachers. Help us help our community by becoming a member, donations, and participation in our monthly meetings.  Click here for your memberships and contributions. 

Have any ideas or concerns,  email us at  [email protected]. 

 

The Oakton PTSA is looking for parent volunteers for the following positions:

• ANGP Party Chair
• Secretary
• Hospitality Chair

Please email us at [email protected]. 

For our announcements and updates ,the Oakton PTSA website. 

Oakton Pantry General Information 

The Oakton Pantry is available to any Oakton student or neighbor who is in need. We stock non-perishable food, personal hygiene items, and household supplies. 

For assistance: [email protected] 

Volunteer/Questions: [email protected]

Donate via PayPal

Most needed items: website

Amazon Wish List 

Parent Resources Parent Information Line 

Parents who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese can call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS and to receive support if they are having difficulty communicating with their children's schools due to a language barrier.

Parent Resource Center 

The FCPS Parent Resource Center offers a wide variety of information and resources to support the success of all students.  This includes monthly workshops and webinars.  More information can be found on the FCPS website, including registration information.  

FCPS Cares

Do you know an Oakton High School or FCPS employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way or goes beyond what is expected?  If so, then click here to share with everyone. 

2900 Sutton Road, Vienna VA 22181 | Main Office: (703) 319-2700
Attendance: (703) 319-2727 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

如果您想以其他语言阅读此新闻时讯，请访问我们的网站。

이 소식지를 다른 언어로 읽으려면, 우리 웹사이트를 방문하시기 바랍니다.

.يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى

Be sure to follow us on Twitter (@OaktonHS), and Instagram @oaktonhs ! Be sure to check out our Oakton Accolades section on our website as we celebrate student achievement!  

Important Dates 

You can access the FCPS 2023-2024 school year calendar here.   

February 5-8 - Instruction 2 Industry Career Expo Events (see below) 

February 5-9: National School Counseling Week 

February 10 - Lunar New Year, Religious and Cultural Observance Day 

February 12-16 - Kindness Week (Led by Cougar Leadership students)

February 14 - Capitol Hill Field Trip (12th grade students) 

February 17 - Instruction 2 Industry Career Fair Exhibition (see below) 

February 19 - No School (Presidents' Day); Spring Sports Tryouts begin

March 5 - No School for Students (Virtual School Planning Day - Primary Day) 

March 11 - Religious and Cultural Observance Day, First full day of Ramadan 

General Information Oakton Accolades

The Oakton Accolades page has been updated to reflect many student and school accomplishments for the month of January.  Be sure to check it out!

National School Counseling Week

This week is National School Counseling Week.  We would like to celebrate and thank our wonderful team of school counselors including: Mr. Bade, Ms Barry, Ms. Chase-Kang, Mr. Grausz, Ms. Kirstein, Ms. Madden, Ms. Osborne, Ms. Rivas Wyatt, Ms. Tran and Dr. Vilbas.  We would also like to thank your Director of Student Services, Ms. Hogan. Take a moment this week to reach out to them to share your appreciation.  They work tirelessly to support all Oakton students and we are so grateful to have them as a part of the Oakton community!  

Kindness Spirit Week 

The Oakton community is invited to participate in Kindness Spirit Week.  Below are the activities and spirit days planned for next week.  In addition students filled out paper hearts today (February 5) during Cougar Connect with someone in the Oakton community they were thankful for.  Those will be compiled into a display in the hallway for students to see.  

• Monday, February 12: Lollipops at Door 1 & 6 before school; PJ Day
• Tuesday, February 13: Positive Post-it Notes will be on desks throughout the building for as students arrive; Wear Purple for International Kindness Day
• Wednesday, February 14: Happy Valentines Day!  Wear Pink and Red
• Thursday, February 15: Candy Grams distributed (on sale this week through February 8); Wear Favorite Team Jersey
• Friday, February 16: Free hot chocolate in the canteen in the morning (while supplies last); Oakton Gear 

Course Registration 2024-25

Course registration for the 2024-2025 school year has begun!  Below are different ways students and parents can learn about the course offerings and when each grade level will register. 

Students and parents can find information about many of our classes, explained by our teachers, through our course offerings website . Additional information can be found on our academic advising and course offerings page. 

Registration: All students will have presentations from the counselors and then an individual meeting to confirm the classes they wish to enroll in.  The dates below may be adjusted as needed.  

It is incredibly important that students sign up for the classes they want to take.  We base our staffing decisions on these initial numbers. Deadlines to register for courses is March 1, 2024.

Rising Seniors - Class of 2025

• Classroom Presentations: January 4 & 5 through English classes
• 1:1 Registration with counselor: January 8 – 25 through Social Studies classes

Rising Juniors - Class of 2026

• Classroom Presentations: January 29 & 30 through English classes
• 1:1 Registration with counselor: January 31 – February 14 through Social Studies classes

Rising Sophomores - Class of 2027

• Classroom Presentations: February 15 & 16 through English classes
• 1:1 Registration with counselor: February 20 – March 1 through Social Studies classes

Rising Freshmen - Class of 2028

Counselor Presentations:

• January 9 – Carson Middle School
• January 11 – Franklin Middle School
• January 12 – Thoreau Middle School
• January 22 - Jackson Middle School 

Deadlines for course selection will be determined by the middle school; dates will vary by school.

Spring Sports Tryout Information - Feb. 19

Tryouts for spring sports will start on Monday, February 19th (note: this is a school holiday) and will run for 3 days.  Athletes must attend 3 days of tryouts to be considered.

BEFORE students can tryout they must have a current VHSL physical on file dated after May 1, 2023 as well as the online registration filled out.

Athletes should check back for timing of individual tryout times for each sport on our Oakton Athletics site. 

Monday, February 26th there will be a parent meeting/ “meet the teams” pep rally followed by individual break out sessions with Coaches.

Wednesday, February 28th will be team photos after school (schedule TBA)

Please email individual coaches with questions.

Learner Permit Testing Dates

If you would like to sign your student up for their learner's permit driving test, please see this document for dates and registration information.  This also includes resources to help students prepare.  

Partners for Safe Teen Driving Presentation

All students enrolled in Classroom Driver Education during the 2023-2024 school year must attend an in-person Partners for Safe Teen Driving (PSTD). The presentation is connected to successful classroom instruction and must be completed to receive a DEC-District 8 card (pink card). The parent-teen traffic safety presentation (PSTD) will be offered multiple times during the school year at Oakton. Students and their parents/guardians should plan to attend the presentation at Oakton at your earliest convenience.  

All PSTDs begin promptly. Late admission will not be allowed. 

2023-2024 Dates:

1. Wednesday, January 31, 6:30pm in the Auditorium (Rescheduled from January 16 Snow Day)
2. Tuesday, March 19, 6:30pm in the Auditorium
3. Wednesday, May 29, 6:30pm in the Auditorium

These sessions are intended for Sophomores. Juniors and Seniors can attend a session through Adult and Community Education.

PSTD nights are not available to freshmen.

Yearbooks and Senior Baby Ads

Yearbooks and senior baby ads for the 2023-2024 school year are now on sale! You can purchase yearbook packages and senior baby ads at www.yearbookordercenter.com using the code 4770. Standalone yearbooks are also available via MySchoolBucks. Prices start at $67 and will increase throughout the year, so buy early to save. Don’t wait – the last two years sold out. Questions? Email [email protected]

Instruction 2 Industry Career Expo Events

In February, school divisions across the region will team up with Virginia Ed Strategies to host the annual Instruction 2 Industry Career Expo event. This Northern Virginia regional event will allow high school students to connect virtually and in person, with more than 60 local industry professionals from in-demand career fields. 

The purpose of these FREE career exploration events is to provide students with opportunities to prepare for tomorrow’s workforce today. 

Virtual sessions will be held on February 5-8, from 4-7 p.m., and the in-person Career Expo and Job Fair event will be held on Saturday, February 17, from 1-4 p.m., in the North Hall of the Dulles Expo Center. 

Students should register today on the Instruction 2 Industry Events Page

Fairfax County Teen Job Fair Series

Looking for a job or volunteer opportunity? All students are invited to attend the 2024 Fairfax County Teen Job Fair Series and Career Building Workshops sponsored by Springfield District Supervisor Pat Herrity with FCPS kicking off Saturday, March 2nd from 11am to 1pm at Chantilly High School and on Saturday, March 9th at West Springfield High School from 11am to 1pm. At each fair, students will have the opportunity to engage with employers offering part-time, full-time, seasonal, and volunteer positions. During the fairs, students will also be able to attend career-building workshops like Resume Building and Interviewing 101. Most positions at the fair are geared toward students age 16+, but some opportunities for younger students may be available with parental consent. Registration is free here and at the fairs. For more information, or to register, please visit the Teen Job Fair webpage.

Testing Updates  WIDA Testing

WIDA testing will begin on Monday, January 29- February 29 with more than 180 students at Oakton scheduled to complete the four-part WIDA. Federal law requires that all Level 1-5 English Learners (ELs) participate annually in an English Language proficiency assessment. WIDA Access for ELLs consists of the following parts: Reading, Listening, Writing, and Speaking. Students will take the four parts of WIDA over 3 test sessions. This assessment determines a student’s English language proficiency level, eligibility for ESOL services and testing accommodations. It also provides teachers with information they can use to plan for and support students’ learning. Students and parents/guardians will be notified of testing schedules via email.  

National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) 

Oakton High will participate in the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) on Tuesday, February 13, 2024. NAEP is the largest nationally representative and continuing assessment of what students know and can do in various subjects. NAEP is administered by the National Center for Education Statistics, within the U.S. Department of Education. NAEP is different from our state assessments because it is a common measure of achievement across the country. The results are released as The Nation's Report Card, which provides information about student achievement to educators, parents/guardians, policymakers, and the public. Families of students selected to participate will be notified via email.

Student Services Updates  Student Services Newsletter

Happy February Cougar Families!  Check out this month’s Student Services Newsletter that highlights Junior Family College Night, course registration information, summer school, and upcoming events.  One event is the US Service Academy and ROTC Night on February 13 at 7pm.  Madison HS is hosting representatives from Military Academies and ROTC Programs as well as a representative from Gerry Connolly’s Office who will talk about the nomination process. 

Virtual Junior Family College Night

If you missed the virtual Junior Family College Night, you can access the recording at OHS Junior College Panel Night 1/31/2024 (youtube.com). Admission representatives from the following colleges attended: University of Virginia, Penn State University, Gettysburg College, and George Mason University. Topics included: Finding the Right Fit, Components of the College Application, and Admissions Decisions.

Timeline for Schedule Changes

Please see the timeline below regarding schedule changes for the 2023-24 school year. 

• November 6 - March 22: Any student requesting a schedule change will need to fill out the schedule change request form, with permission from parent, student, teacher, school counselor, and administrator. If approved by the administration, schedule changes will only be processed if there is space available.
• After March 22: There will not be any schedule changes, regardless of space availability.  This date aligns with the last day of the 3rd Quarter.

To find out who your child's school counselor is, please visit our website.  

Service Learning Senior Service Learning Hours and X2VOL

The last day for Seniors to submit Service Learning hours to X2Vol for approval will be April 19th at 3pm. All Seniors must have submitted any hours prior to this date if they wish to have them approved for graduation awards and recognition. Please see the information provided below regarding graduation awards and recognition tied to Service Learning in FCPS. If you have any questions please reach out to Kimberly Stewart, our Service Learning Liaison, with your questions [email protected]. This date is for Seniors ONLY. All other underclass students may continue to submit Service Learning hours in X2VOL. Oakton High School Service Learning information can be found HERE.

Service-Learning for Graduates Service Learning Hours Cord: 40 hours 

This is separate from government.  Students can use the hours that they used for government, but they will need a total of 40 hours from the past 4 years in order to earn a service cord at graduation.

• Note to Underclassmen: Hours/Reflections will be recorded by the student on x2VOL website. 
• Note to current Seniors: You will not get the actual cord until graduation rehearsal.

Civics Seal Application: 50 hours

This is an application approved by the state of VA, and requires 50 hours of service, as well as a B average in History/Government. It will allow students to be eligible to receive a civics seal on their diploma. 

• Please talk to your Social Studies teacher for more information. 

Volunteer Fairfax

Volunteer Fairfax is a resource that can be used to find out about service-learning opportunities in the community. Service learning is a great way for students and families to engage with local nonprofits and volunteer. More information about Volunteer opportunities on this day can be found on Volunteer Fairfax’s website.

Disclaimer: Opportunities offered by organizations other than Fairfax County Public Schools are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or a specific school. These opportunities may utilize technology tools that have not been assessed by the Fairfax County Public Schools Department of Information Technology. Students should gain permission from their parent or guardian before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity and families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any technology platform that the enrichment opportunity may use before participating.

Class of 2024 Information Senior Letter 

An updated senior letter was emailed out on January 26.  That information has also been uploaded to the Oakton website and can be found here. This letter includes many updates from the September senior letter.  It also provides more information on how to pay senior dues and order a Class of 2024 t-shirt. 

Health and Wellness Updates 2023-2024 Health & Safety Guidance for Schools

Be sure to review FCPS Health and Safety Guidance for the best ways to prevent the spread of disease and to find out when students should stay home from school.

Emergency Resources

Crisis Link Regional Hotline            703-527-4077

Crisis Text                                       Text NEEDHELP to 85511

Dominion Hospital Emergency       703-536-2000

INOVA Emergency                         703-289-7560

Merrifield Center Emergency         703-573-5979  TTY dial 711

Life Threatening                             911

Safety and Security Updates Safety Drills

Below is a list of safety drills that we will be practicing this school year. 

• Fire Evacuation Drills - Two within the first twenty school days, then one per month
• Lockdown Drills - Two per school year; one in the first twenty days of school 
• Bus Evacuation Drills - Two per school year; to be held within the first thirty school days of each semester 
• Tornado Drill - To be held in March 

Anonymous Tip Line Puts Safety First

If you or your child have concerns or information relating to feeling unsafe in any way at school, we encourage you to reach out to a member of the security or administrative team so that we may quickly address the issue.  Students and parents may also utilize the FCPS Office of Safety and Security safety tip line, that you can access anonymously online, by text (888-777; Keyword TIP FCPS), or by phone (571-423-2020).

If your tip is an emergency and immediate assistance is necessary, please dial 911.

Students, staff, and community members should report school safety issues such as threats, unsafe or dangerous situations, illegal drug activity, theft, gang activity, the existence of weapons, vandalism, and concerns about student wellness. Tip line users may identify themselves or remain anonymous.

Concerns that do not impact the safety of our schools—concerns or information about programs, regulations, or policies—can be sent to the FCPS ombudsman online, at 571-423-4014, or [email protected]. 

FCPS News

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

• Superintendent to Present Fiscal Year 2025 Budget
• Here Comes the Bus App
• Career Exploration Event for High School Students

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving the weekly newsletter, please sign up today. 

PTSA Updates

The Oakton PTSA Winter Fundraiser is underway. Your contributions, membership and donations  to the PTSA  go a long way in helping the PTSA provide for funds, events, and opportunities for the students and the teachers. Help us help our community by becoming a member, donations, and participation in our monthly meetings.  Click here for your memberships and contributions. 

Have any ideas or concerns,  email us at  [email protected]. 

 

The Oakton PTSA is looking for parent volunteers for the following positions:

• ANGP Party Chair
• Secretary
• Hospitality Chair

Please email us at [email protected]. 

For our announcements and updates ,the Oakton PTSA website. 

Oakton Pantry

Today's shout-out goes to Cadette Troop 50024 from Mosaic Elementary School. These Girl Scouts planned and organized all aspects of a donation drive for the Pantry for their Bronze Award project. We love working with student and community groups! Thank you for your generous support!

General Information 

The Oakton Pantry is available to any Oakton student or neighbor who is in need. We stock non-perishable food, personal hygiene items, and household supplies. 

For assistance: [email protected] 

Volunteer/Questions: [email protected]

Donate via PayPal

Most needed items: website

Amazon Wish List 

Parent Resources Parent Information Line 

Parents who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese can call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS and to receive support if they are having difficulty communicating with their children's schools due to a language barrier.

Parent Resource Center 

The FCPS Parent Resource Center offers a wide variety of information and resources to support the success of all students.  This includes monthly workshops and webinars.  More information can be found on the FCPS website, including registration information.  

FCPS Cares

Do you know an Oakton High School or FCPS employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way or goes beyond what is expected?  If so, then click here to share with everyone. 

2900 Sutton Road, Vienna VA 22181 | Main Office: (703) 319-2700
Attendance: (703) 319-2727 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

如果您想以其他语言阅读此新闻时讯，请访问我们的网站。

이 소식지를 다른 언어로 읽으려면, 우리 웹사이트를 방문하시기 바랍니다.

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Be sure to follow us on Twitter (@OaktonHS), and Instagram @oaktonhs ! Be sure to check out our Oakton Accolades section on our website as we celebrate student achievement!  

Important Dates 

You can access the FCPS 2023-2024 school year calendar here.   

January 29 - Rising Junior Course Registration begins 

January 30 - Gap Year Fair (see below) 

January 31 - Junior Family College Night (Virtual); PSTD Presentation (2nd Offering) 

February 5-8 - Instruction 2 Industry Career Expo Events (see below) 

February 10 - Lunar New Year, Religious and Cultural Observance Day 

February 17 - Instruction 2 Industry Career Fair Exhibition (see below) 

February 19 - No School; Spring Sports Tryouts begin

General Information Course Registration 2024-25

Course registration for the 2024-2025 school year has begun!  Below are different ways students and parents can learn about the course offerings and when each grade level will register. 

Students and parents can find information about many of our classes, explained by our teachers, through our course offerings website . Additional information can be found on our academic advising and course offerings page. 

Registration: All students will have presentations from the counselors and then an individual meeting to confirm the classes they wish to enroll in.  The dates below may be adjusted as needed.  

It is incredibly important that students sign up for the classes they want to take.  We base our staffing decisions on these initial numbers. Deadlines to register for courses is March 1, 2024.

Rising Seniors - Class of 2025

• Classroom Presentations: January 4 & 5 through English classes
• 1:1 Registration with counselor: January 8 – 25 through Social Studies classes

Rising Juniors - Class of 2026

• Classroom Presentations: January 29 & 30 through English classes
• 1:1 Registration with counselor: January 31 – February 14 through Social Studies classes

Rising Sophomores - Class of 2027

• Classroom Presentations: February 15 & 16 through English classes
• 1:1 Registration with counselor: February 20 – March 1 through Social Studies classes

Rising Freshmen - Class of 2028

Counselor Presentations:

• January 9 – Carson Middle School
• January 11 – Franklin Middle School
• January 12 – Thoreau Middle School
• January 22 - Jackson Middle School 

Deadlines for course selection will be determined by the middle school; dates will vary by school.

Spring Sports Tryout Information

Tryouts for spring sports will start on Monday, February 19th (note: this is a school holiday) and will run for 3 days.  Athletes must attend 3 days of tryouts to be considered.

BEFORE students can tryout they must have a current VHSL physical on file dated after May 1, 2023 as well as the online registration filled out.

Athletes should check back for timing of individual tryout times for each sport on our Oakton Athletics site. 

Monday, February 26th there will be a parent meeting/ “meet the teams” pep rally followed by individual break out sessions with Coaches.

Wednesday, February 28th will be team photos after school (schedule TBA)

Please email individual coaches with questions.

Learner Permit Testing Dates

If you would like to sign your student up for their learner's permit driving test, please see this document for dates and registration information.  This also includes resources to help students prepare.  

Partners for Safe Teen Driving Presentation

All students enrolled in Classroom Driver Education during the 2023-2024 school year must attend an in-person Partners for Safe Teen Driving (PSTD). The presentation is connected to successful classroom instruction and must be completed to receive a DEC-District 8 card (pink card). The parent-teen traffic safety presentation (PSTD) will be offered multiple times during the school year at Oakton. Students and their parents/guardians should plan to attend the presentation at Oakton at your earliest convenience.  

All PSTDs begin promptly. Late admission will not be allowed. 

2023-2024 Dates:

1. Wednesday, January 31, 6:30pm in the Auditorium (Rescheduled from January 16 Snow Day)
2. Tuesday, March 19, 6:30pm in the Auditorium
3. Wednesday, May 29, 6:30pm in the Auditorium

These sessions are intended for Sophomores. Juniors and Seniors can attend a session through Adult and Community Education.

PSTD nights are not available to freshmen.

Yearbooks and Senior Baby Ads

Yearbooks and senior baby ads for the 2023-2024 school year are now on sale! You can purchase yearbook packages and senior baby ads at www.yearbookordercenter.com using the code 4770. Standalone yearbooks are also available via MySchoolBucks. Prices start at $67 and will increase throughout the year, so buy early to save. Don’t wait – the last two years sold out. Questions? Email [email protected]

Instruction 2 Industry Career Expo Events

In February, school divisions across the region will team up with Virginia Ed Strategies to host the annual Instruction 2 Industry Career Expo event. This Northern Virginia regional event will allow high school students to connect virtually and in person, with more than 60 local industry professionals from in-demand career fields. 

The purpose of these FREE career exploration events is to provide students with opportunities to prepare for tomorrow’s workforce today. 

Virtual sessions will be held on February 5-8, from 4-7 p.m., and the in-person Career Expo and Job Fair event will be held on Saturday, February 17, from 1-4 p.m., in the North Hall of the Dulles Expo Center. 

Students should register today on the Instruction 2 Industry Events Page

Testing Updates  WIDA Testing

WIDA testing will begin on Monday, January 29- February with more than 180 students at Oakton scheduled to complete the four-part WIDA. Federal law requires that all Level 1-5 English Learners (ELs) participate annually in an English Language proficiency assessment. WIDA Access for ELLs consists of the following parts: Reading, Listening, Writing, and Speaking. Students will take the four parts of WIDA over 3 test sessions. This assessment determines a student’s English language proficiency level, eligibility for ESOL services and testing accommodations. It also provides teachers with information they can use to plan for and support students’ learning. Students and parents/guardians will be notified of testing schedules via email.  

National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) 

Oakton High will participate in the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) on Tuesday, February 13, 2024. NAEP is the largest nationally representative and continuing assessment of what students know and can do in various subjects. NAEP is administered by the National Center for Education Statistics, within the U.S. Department of Education. NAEP is different from our state assessments because it is a common measure of achievement across the country. The results are released as The Nation's Report Card, which provides information about student achievement to educators, parents/guardians, policymakers, and the public. Families of students selected to participate will be notified via email.

Student Services Updates  Student Services Newsletter

Happy New Year Cougars!  Take a look at January’s Student Services’ newsletter that highlights our December activities including Cookies and Coloring Brain Break and Oakton Resources Parent Coffee.  Learn more about the Course Registration Process for the 2024-2025 School Year such as the schedule and FCPS academy information.  Upcoming events are also included such as summer school information, Junior Family College Night, the ASVAB Test, NOVA’s Early Online College Program, and Coursera Information. 

2024 Gap Year Fair

FCPS School Counseling Services and Go Overseas are co-hosting the annual FCPS Gap Year Fair on Tuesday, January 30, 2024, at George C. Marshall High School from 6 to 8:30 p.m.  This event is for high school students and their families who are interested in learning more about the growing array of gap year opportunities. Student registration will open on November 20, 2023, on USA Gap Year Fairs.

Junior Family College Night – January 31, 2024 at 6pm (Virtual)

Junior families please mark your calendars for Junior Family College Night. This event is for both junior students and their families to hear directly from college admissions representatives in a panel format. There will be a 30-minute Q&A session at the end.

Topics include:

• Finding the Right Fit
• Components of the College Application
• Starting the College Search

The zoom link will be emailed to junior families the last week of January via eNotify "Oakton High School."  

Timeline for Schedule Changes

Please see the timeline below regarding schedule changes for the 2023-24 school year. 

• November 6 - March 22: Any student requesting a schedule change will need to fill out the schedule change request form, with permission from parent, student, teacher, school counselor, and administrator. If approved by the administration, schedule changes will only be processed if there is space available.
• After March 22: There will not be any schedule changes, regardless of space availability.  This date aligns with the last day of the 3rd Quarter.

To find out who your child's school counselor is, please visit our website.  

Service Learning Volunteer Fairfax

Volunteer Fairfax is a resource that can be used to find out about service-learning opportunities in the community. Service learning is a great way for students and families to engage with local nonprofits and volunteer. More information about Volunteer opportunities on this day can be found on Volunteer Fairfax’s website.

Disclaimer: Opportunities offered by organizations other than Fairfax County Public Schools are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or a specific school. These opportunities may utilize technology tools that have not been assessed by the Fairfax County Public Schools Department of Information Technology. Students should gain permission from their parent or guardian before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity and families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any technology platform that the enrichment opportunity may use before participating.

Health and Wellness Updates 2023-2024 Health & Safety Guidance for Schools

Be sure to review FCPS Health and Safety Guidance for the best ways to prevent the spread of disease and to find out when students should stay home from school.

Emergency Resources

Crisis Link Regional Hotline            703-527-4077

Crisis Text                                       Text NEEDHELP to 85511

Dominion Hospital Emergency       703-536-2000

INOVA Emergency                         703-289-7560

Merrifield Center Emergency         703-573-5979  TTY dial 711

Life Threatening                             911

Safety and Security Updates Safety Drills

Below is a list of safety drills that we will be practicing this school year. 

• Fire Evacuation Drills - Two within the first twenty school days, then one per month
• Lockdown Drills - Two per school year; one in the first twenty days of school 
• Bus Evacuation Drills - Two per school year; to be held within the first thirty school days of each semester 
• Tornado Drill - To be held in March 

Anonymous Tip Line Puts Safety First

If you or your child have concerns or information relating to feeling unsafe in any way at school, we encourage you to reach out to a member of the security or administrative team so that we may quickly address the issue.  Students and parents may also utilize the FCPS Office of Safety and Security safety tip line, that you can access anonymously online, by text (888-777; Keyword TIP FCPS), or by phone (571-423-2020).

If your tip is an emergency and immediate assistance is necessary, please dial 911.

Students, staff, and community members should report school safety issues such as threats, unsafe or dangerous situations, illegal drug activity, theft, gang activity, the existence of weapons, vandalism, and concerns about student wellness. Tip line users may identify themselves or remain anonymous.

Concerns that do not impact the safety of our schools—concerns or information about programs, regulations, or policies—can be sent to the FCPS ombudsman online, at 571-423-4014, or [email protected]. 

PTSA Updates

The Oakton PTSA Winter Fundraiser is underway. Your contributions, membership and donations  to the PTSA  go a long way in helping the PTSA provide for funds, events, and opportunities for the students and the teachers. Help us help our community by becoming a member, donations, and participation in our monthly meetings.  Click here for your memberships and contributions. 

Have any ideas or concerns,  email us at  [email protected]. 

 

The Oakton PTSA is looking for parent volunteers for the following positions:

• ANGP Party Chair
• Secretary
• Hospitality Chair

Please email us at [email protected]. 

For our announcements and updates ,the Oakton PTSA website. 

Oakton Pantry

We are very grateful for the continued support of the non-profit Cease Hunger. For almost a year, this organization has provided bulk quantities of staple items for the Pantry, and has helped ensure that each week we have fully stocked shelves.

We'd also like to recognize our long-standing partner, Dr. Niloo and Children's Dentistry of Oakton. Dr. Niloo, who is an OHS parent, always keeps a Pantry collection box in her office so that her patients can easily donate to the Pantry all year long. Thank you so much for your support!

Thank you also to Catalyst Operations & Analytics for the generous grant! We are very appreciative of your continued support of the Pantry. With food prices continuing to rise, this monetary donation gives us the flexibility to buy sale items in bulk and keep our shelves fully stocked.

General Information 

The Oakton Pantry is available to any Oakton student or neighbor who is in need. We stock non-perishable food, personal hygiene items, and household supplies. 

For assistance: [email protected] 

Volunteer/Questions: [email protected]

Donate via PayPal

Most needed items: website

Amazon Wish List 

Parent Resources Parent Information Line 

Parents who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese can call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS and to receive support if they are having difficulty communicating with their children's schools due to a language barrier.

Parent Resource Center 

The FCPS Parent Resource Center offers a wide variety of information and resources to support the success of all students.  This includes monthly workshops and webinars.  More information can be found on the FCPS website, including registration information.  

FCPS Cares

Do you know an Oakton High School or FCPS employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way or goes beyond what is expected?  If so, then click here to share with everyone. 

2900 Sutton Road, Vienna VA 22181 | Main Office: (703) 319-2700
Attendance: (703) 319-2727 | Web | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram