Upper School Newsletter – April 2, 2025
April 2, 2025
Letter From the Division Director
Good evening, Husky Families,
Welcome back from Spring Break, everyone! I hope everyone found that great mixture of relaxation and adventure.
We have entered April, a month filled with wonderful fine arts events at Flint Hill, and we invite families from JK to 12 to enjoy!
Next Tuesday, April 8, 7:00-9:00 p.m., we will hold the annual Arts Jam celebration at the Center for the Arts on the George Mason University campus. This event showcases our various performing arts groups in a series of performances, making for an amazing night of music.
On Wednesday, April 23, 5:30-8:00 p.m., the Visual Arts classes will host their annual Arts Show Opening Reception. After a few days of transforming the Upper School into an art museum, we welcome all community members to walk through the halls to enjoy the various paintings, ceramics, installations, films, and digital art creations.
Continuing into May, the Theater Arts program shines with the Upper School musical production of “She Loves Me” — the weekend of May 2-4 — which was revived on Broadway in 2016 to much acclaim.
So check your calendars now and mark one or multiple nights to experience the fine arts at Flint Hill!
Don Paige
Director of the Upper 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.
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!
Supporting Your Senior: Navigating Learning Support & Resources — Wednesday, April 23 (Virtual)
On Wednesday, April 23, 12:00-1:00 p.m., parents of seniors are invited to join a virtual session designed to help parents, guardians, and caregivers of FH seniors understand the academic support services available at the college level. The virtual event will be hosted by Upper School Learning Center specialists Stephanie Batbouta and Sonya Atkinson, and Director of College Counseling Suzy Chiarolanzio. They'll cover key topics, such as the process for requesting accommodations, differences between high school and college support structures, self-advocacy skills for students, and how to best prepare your child for a transition. There will also be a Q&A time. A condensed, in-person version of this event will be offered to students at the end of April.
Google Meet Link: meet.google.com/ryb-wymw-eao
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.
Modern Language Final Exams
As a reminder, the Modern Language Department final exams consist of a written portion and a speaking/hearing portion. The latter requires the assessment to take place on a 1-1 basis, which cannot be done on the sole final exam. Therefore, the Modern Language Department annually gives the speaking/hearing portion of the exam far in advance of exam week. This year, those assessments will take place the week of April 28.
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
Course Selection Information for 2025-26
It’s time to plan for the 2025-26 school year! Academic Dean Debbie Ayers has met with parents and students to outline course selection guidelines. If you missed a session, please review the 2025-26 Course Selection Instructions and Guidelines.
Key Dates:
- Wednesday, April 9: Course registration portal opens. Students enroll in classes with advisor support.
- Wednesday, April 16: Course selection portal closes. Changes after this date must go through School Registrar Maha Morse.
- May 5-June 9: Probationary enrollment requests accepted.
For questions, contact your student’s teacher (course recommendations), advisor (academic planning), Academic Dean Debbie Ayers (graduation requirements, prerequisites), or School Registrar Maha Morse (schedule changes).
College Conference for Juniors — Friday, April 4
On Friday, April 4, Flint Hill juniors will take the next step in the college search process by participating in the College Counseling Office’s annual College Conference for Juniors program. Through a series of workshops during the school day, juniors will create their Common App accounts, learn strategies for managing the application process, and hear advice from both college admission professionals and current seniors.
College Conference Virtual Panel For Junior Parents — Friday, April 4
Our junior parents are invited to participate in a virtual Q&A session with experienced college admissions officers on Friday, April 4, 8:15-9:00 a.m., to ask questions and hear several perspectives on this important family experience, particularly as the landscape of college admissions continues to change.
Parent Walking Group — Friday, April 4
Meetup with fellow parents on Friday, April 4, 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
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 (RSVP by Wednesday, April 16)
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.
Campus Volunteer/Employee Summer Opportunities for Students
Check out our new Summer Opportunities tile on Husky Hub! On this tile, you can view opportunities this summer to engage in programs, either as a participant or as a volunteer/employee. Look at the options here and read more about program highlights below.
Guatemala Service Learning Experience: Join our service trip to Guatemala, July 27-August 3. The trip will be focused on service and building stoves in the homes of rural Mayan families, but students will also have the opportunity to zipline at Lake Atitlán, tour Mayan ruins, and explore the local culture! Learn more.
seedLab Film Academy: Join us for this intensive and fun film camp, June 23-27. In just five days, you’ll develop, write, produce, shoot, and edit a short film that you and your team get to dream up (and act in!) We'll cover casting, rehearsals, lighting, and sound too. Register here.
Athletics: Game Cancellations Due to Inclement Weather
With the spring season comes the possibility of rain, leading to the potential for cancellations or delays. In the case of inclement weather, the Athletics Department will determine by 1:30 p.m. whether a home game/meet will be canceled. If there is an away game/meet, the decision to play lies with the opposing school and their field conditions. Once a home game/meet is canceled, Flint Hill coaches will notify parents and students. Husky Hub will also be updated and be the source for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
There’s a Place for You at the Golf Invitational & Skills Social — Thursday, May 22
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
College Conference For Juniors
Friday, April 4
Upper School Campus
College Conference Virtual Panel For Junior Parents
Friday, April 4
8:15-9:00 a.m.
Google Meet Link: https://meet.google.com/htz-kscp-atf
Parent Walking Group
Friday, April 4
8:15-9:15 a.m.
Register
ACT
Saturday, April 5
Local National Test Centers
Upper School Spring Semiformal Dance
Saturday, April 5
Upper School Commons, 8:30-10:00 p.m.
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
Course Registration Portal 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
Parents' Association Spring Tennis Social
Friday, April 11
Middle and Upper School Campus Tennis Courts, 9:00-11:30 a.m.
Join the Waitlist
Course Selection Portal Closes
Wednesday, April 16
National Letter of Intent Spring Athletic Signing Ceremony
Monday, April 21
Upper School Learning Commons, 2:30-3:30 p.m.
Supporting Your Senior Virtual Meeting
Wednesday, April 23
12:00-1:00 p.m
Google Meet Link: meet.google.com/ryb-wymw-eao
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.
An opportunity to connect with other parents of students who use the Learning Center and discuss topics of interest with the Learning Center team.
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
Upper School Fine Arts Awards Ceremony
Wednesday, April 30
Upper School Gym, 1:15-2:15 p.m.
Virtual PCW Speaker Series: “Digital Well-Being”
Wednesday, April 30
7:00-8:30 p.m.
Register to Attend
Senior Day
Friday, May 2
Upper School Commons, 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
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
SAT
Saturday, May 3
Local National Test Centers
