Middle School Newsletter – April 2, 2025
April 2, 2025
Letter From the Division Director
I hope that everyone is feeling well-rested after the break — though it’s possible that some of your rest started this Monday when your kids returned to school! In the flow of a school year, I find Spring Break to be particularly important as we gear up for the final nine weeks of the school year while simultaneously planning for the next year. The fourth quarter can feel like a sprint, and, as the summer approaches and the temperatures rise, it can be a challenge to keep middle schoolers focused on doing their best and being their best selves. Returning from the break can also be grounding — allowing us to refocus on personal growth and community norms, knowing that we have a relatively short amount of time remaining. This is the aspect we have emphasized this week, and my hope for all of us is that we finish this final stretch in a way that leaves us proud of our engagement, progress, and impact.
Brian Lamont
Director of the Middle School
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Kaleidoscope Parent Book Club — Monday, April 7
The Kaleidoscope Book Club provides a safe and engaging space for parents to read, discuss, and reflect on a diverse selection of books from various genres and eras. The next meeting is on Monday, April 7, 8:30-9:30 a.m., in the Peterson Middle School, Room 204. Contact All-School Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Coordinator Miles Henderson with any questions.
Join Us for Arts Jam 2025 — Tuesday, April 8
Get ready for Arts Jam! Join us for an electrifying showcase of our Upper School Performing Arts Program on Tuesday, April 8, 7:00-9:00 p.m., at George Mason University's Center for the Arts. Enjoy performances by our percussion, choir, band, and musical theater ensembles. It's family-friendly, free, and open to all!
This year’s highlights include: The Major Minors singing Billie Eilish’s “Birds of a Feather;” the Symphonic Band with highlights from “Les Miserables;” the Symphonic Choir performing the finale from Gilbert and Sullivan’s “The Gondoliers;” cast members of “She Loves Me!” with a special performance; the Percussion Ensemble with Coldplay’s “Sky Full of Stars;” the Jazz Band with “Take Five;” Combined Choirs with a medley from “Wicked;” all ensembles performing “Bohemian Rhapsody;” and much more!
Location: GMU Center for the Arts, 4373 Mason Pond Dr, Fairfax, VA 22030
Parking: Lot K is a free parking lot. Map and directions to GMU.
Upcoming Middle School Field Trips
We have several off-campus day trips coming up in the next month. Regular 8:00 a.m. arrival and 3:25 p.m. dismissal times apply in each case.
- Friday, April 11 — As part of their science curriculum, 7th graders will visit the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center during the school day. They will return to school for lunch.
- Friday, May 2 — 7th graders will visit the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) as part of their history curriculum. 8th graders engage in a scavenger hunt around Washington, D.C., as part of their Advisory Day.
Upper School Visual Arts Show Opening Reception — Wednesday, April 23
Meet the artists at the Visual Arts Show Opening Reception on Wednesday, April 23, 5:30-8:00 p.m., at the Upper School. Upper School visual arts students will showcase their work in a museum-style environment, and there will be a special Portfolio Art exhibition titled "Hold Still." Don't miss this opportunity to see the beautiful artwork — ceramics, digital art, and studio art — and to talk with the student-artists about their process, inspiration, and more!
Parent Meetup: Chocolate Making-Class — Thursday, April 29
Calling all chocolate lovers! Indulge your sweet tooth and connect with fellow parents at this truffle-making class on Thursday, April 29, 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., hosted by Divisional Ambassador Kasey Simons P'27, '28, '31, '33. Registration includes a brief history of chocolate, a chocolate tasting, and a hands-on workshop where you'll craft your own unique truffles. Register here and contact Kasey Simons with any questions.
Virtual Parents Council of Washington Speaker Series: 'Digital Well-Being' with Dr. Devorah Heitner — Wednesday, April 30
Register to attend the Parents Council of Washington (PCW) Virtual Speaker Series Webinar on Wednesday, April 30, 7:00-8:30 p.m. Dr. Devorah Heitner, author of "Growing Up in Public: Coming of Age in a Digital World," will present on "Digital Well-Being: How Can We Help Kids Navigate a World Where Everything is Shared and Compared?" Dr. Heitner will share insights on helping kids with boundaries, identity, privacy, and reputation on social media (Roblox, Instagram, TikTok). A Q&A will follow. Submit questions to administration@parentscouncil.org. Flint Hill is a PCW member. The PCW fosters communication within the D.C. independent school community.
Upper School Musical, “She Loves Me” — Friday-Sunday, May 2-4
Considered by many to be the most charming musical ever written, “She Loves Me” is a warm romantic comedy with an endearing innocence and a touch of old-world elegance. The Mikos Lazlos play “Parfuemerie,” on which it is based, has inspired many adaptations, including the beloved film “You've Got Mail” starring Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks. Set in a 1930s European perfumery, we meet shop clerks Amalia and Georg, who, more often than not, don't see eye to eye. After both respond to a "lonely hearts advertisement" in the newspaper, they now live for the love letters that they exchange, but the identity of their admirers remains unknown. Join Amalia and Georg to discover the identity of their true loves ... and all the twists and turns along the way! This show is rated PG by Music Theatre International.
The Upper School cast will perform in three shows in the Olson Theater located in the Hazel Lower School. Ticket information will be available in the next newsletter.
- Friday, May 2, 7:00-9:00 p.m.
- Saturday, May 3, 7:00-9:00 p.m.
- Sunday, May 4, 2:00-4:00 p.m.
Impactful Initiatives
At Flint Hill, supportive relationships with teachers and inspiring spaces to learn in make all the difference. You have the opportunity to celebrate Mr. Fred Atwood's remarkable legacy as he retires after inspiring countless alumni, students, and colleagues for over 35 years. Also, your support can transform our Upper School, creating more functional and dynamic spaces that flexibly meet student learning and community-building needs.
Make your gift or pledge today to support the people and places that make a difference for students every day by giving to one or both of these Impactful Initiatives. Or to learn more, visit:
Flint Hill Fund — Lead the Pack Challenge Update
Thanks to all of our families who are helping to pull the sled for this year’s Lead the Pack Challenge for the Flint Hill Fund! We are grateful to every single family for your support. Check out where your division or Upper School grade currently is on the way to the goal and see who’s already on the sled. If your child’s division/grade reaches its goal, here’s how we’ll celebrate:
- Pajama Day! in the Lower School
- Free Dress Day! in the Middle School
- Mr. Howard Chang Pie in the Face Day! in the Upper School by individual grade (9-12)
Let’s do this, Huskies!! Don’t wait until it’s too late to be counted in for your child’s division or grade … we want to celebrate our community coming together to make more possible for students!
Reminders
Parent Walking Group — Friday, April 4
Meetup with fellow parents on Friday, April 4, at 8:15 a.m., for a rejuvenating walk through different trails and neighborhoods near the School. Middle School Divisional Ambassador Molisa Meholic P’29 will share location details with the group before the walk. Register and contact Molisa Meholic with any questions.
Upcoming Walking Group Dates: Thursday, April 24; Friday, May 9
Course Selection Process for Rising 8th Graders — Begins Monday, April 7
On Monday, April 7, Brian Lamont will email all students and parents an overview of the course selection process, guidance about selecting the appropriate courses and load, and specific placement recommendations for each student.
Rising Grades 7 and 8 Division Coffee: Course Selection — Wednesday, April 9
Parents are invited to attend an in-person Q&A session on Wednesday, April 9, 9:00-9:45 a.m. at the Peterson Middle School. Parents with questions who are unable to attend may contact Brian Lamont.
Course Selection for Rising 9th Graders — Opens Wednesday, April 9
The timeline for current 8th graders will follow the Upper School process. The online course selection module will officially open on Wednesday, April 9. Here are the slides about Rising Grade 9 Course Selection from Assistant Director of the Upper School and Academic Dean Debbie Ayers’ presentation at the recent Rising Grade 9 Division Coffee: Upper School Academic Planning. We will support students during the course selection process using this pared-down version of Debbie's presentation to highlight typical 9th grade schedules and requirements.
Arlington Parent Meetup — Thursday, April 10
On Thursday, April 10, 5:30-7:30 p.m., join Lower School Divisional Ambassador Julia Blizzard P'32, '35 and Ali Collins P'29, '31 for a casual meetup at Ocean Shack (2163 N Glebe Rd., Arlington, VA 22207) to connect with fellow Arlington parents. Whether you're looking to set up a new carpool or just meet other parents in the community, this is a great opportunity to spend time with Huskies in our area. While this event is geared toward Arlington parents, all JK-12 parents are invited to join! Register here and contact Julia Blizzard or Ali Collins with questions.
Casino Night on the Hill — Friday, April 25
You’re invited to Casino Night on the Hill, an adults-only evening of games, cocktails, and community on Friday, April 25, 8:00-10:00 p.m.! Whether you're a high roller or just in it for the fun, try your luck at blackjack, roulette, craps, and poker. There is no cost to attend, and everyone starts the night with $10,000 in Husky Bucks with the option to purchase more during the night to continue playing. Who will be the 2025 Husky High Roller? Don’t leave it to chance — RSVP by Wednesday, April 16!
Want to promote your business or support the event? Sponsor a casino table for $250 (only 12 available)! Your support will be recognized through event signage and inclusion in our annual report on philanthropy, and proceeds will support the Flint Hill Fund.
There’s a Place for You at the Golf Invitational & Skills Social
Whether you're a once-a-week or a once-a-year golfer, join the Flint Hill community for a fun day on the links on Thursday, May 22, at Westfields Golf Club! Choose between the 18-hole scramble or the Skills Social, a relaxed clinic to sharpen your putting and driving (clubs included!) with co-chairs Caroline Gray ’08, Head of School Patrick McHonett, and Jessica McHonett.
Play with your own foursome or let us pair you with fellow Huskies. Not able to play? You can still make an impact by sponsoring or volunteering! All abilities are welcome but spots are limited, so sign up today!
Concessions Volunteers Needed! Spring Schedule Available
The spring athletic season is here, and the Den concessions stand is back for selected games! To keep both the Den and the Igloo running smoothly, we need your help. Bring a friend, sign up for as many shifts as you'd like, and help create a fantastic experience for everyone. Plus, Upper School students may earn service hours while having fun and contributing to the school community!
Upcoming Events
Parent Meetup: Mini-golf at Oakmont
Wednesday, April 2
6:30-8:30 p.m.
Oakmont Rec Center
Details
Parent Walking Group
Friday, April 4
8:15-9:15 a.m.
Register
Course Selection for Rising 7th and 8th Graders Begins
Monday, April 7
Kaleidoscope Parent Book Club
Monday, April 7
Peterson Middle School Room 204, 8:30-9:30 a.m.
Arts Jam
Tuesday, April 8
7:00-9:00 p.m.
Location: GMU Center for the Arts, 4373 Mason Pond Dr, Fairfax, VA 22030
Middle School Athletics Picture Day
Tuesday, April 8
Peterson Middle School Mitchell Commons, 2:15-3:15 p.m.
Rising Grades 7 and 8 Division Coffee: Course Selection
Wednesday, April 9
Peterson Middle School Mitchell Commons, 9:00-9:45 a.m.
Course Selection for Rising 9th Graders Opens
Wednesday, April 9
Arlington Parent Meetup
Thursday, April 10
5:30-7:30 p.m.
Location: Ocean Shack, 2163 N Glebe Rd, Arlington, VA 22207
Register
7th Grade Field Trip to Air and Space Museum
Friday, April 11
As part of their science curriculum, 7th graders will visit the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center during the school day. Regular drop-off and pick-up times apply and we will provide lunch at school.
Parents' Association Spring Tennis Social
Friday, April 11
Middle and Upper School Campus Tennis Courts, 9:00-11:30 a.m.
Join the Waitlist
Upper School Visual Arts Show Opening Reception
Wednesday, April 23
Upper School Building, 5:30-8:00 p.m.
Night on the Hill
Friday, April 25
Peterson Middle School, 8:00-10:00 p.m.
Learning Center Parent Coffee
Monday, April 28
Peterson Middle School Learning Commons, 8:15-9:15 a.m.
Parent Meetup: Chocolate-Making Class
Thursday, April 29
11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Location: Artisan Confections, 1333 Chain Bridge Road, McLean, Virginia 22101
Register to Attend
Virtual PCW Speaker Series: “Digital Well-Being”
Wednesday, April 30
7:00-8:30 p.m.
Register to Attend
Middle School Field Trips
Friday, May 2
Upper School Musical, “She Loves Me”
Friday and Saturday, May 2-3, 7:00-9:00 p.m.
Sunday, May 4, 2:00-4:00 p.m.
Hazel Lower School Olson Theater
