Upper School Newsletter – April 24, 2024
APRIL 24, 2024
Letter From The Division Director
Good evening Husky families,
The end-of-year exams will arrive in a little less than a month from today. Here is some useful information for our families to help students prepare for the large assessments. The daily exam schedule is included below, under “Upcoming Events.”
- There will be no new homework assignments given to students, starting Wednesday, May 15, for periods 1-3, and Thursday, May 16, for periods 4-7. This is done in recognition of the research indicating that studying the material in small chunks over a longer period of time yields far better results than trying to study in a large chunk right before the exam.
- Because the Modern Language Department includes speaking and listening as part of their final exam, some of those assessments will occur earlier in May so they can schedule all of the one-to-one assessment windows.
- Wednesday, May 22, is called Reading Day at Flint Hill. It is a required day for all Grade 9 students, but it is optional for Grade 10 and 11 students. The day is designed so that students can prepare for their exams while also having teachers available to respond to questions. Please note that Grade 10 and 11 students may not come and go repeatedly during that day. Once they have left campus, they should not return to campus.
- In the rare circumstance where a student has two exams scheduled at the same time, the student should report this to their teacher who will work with their department chair to create a makeup schedule for the exam conflict.
- Exams are worth 20% of the students’ second-semester grade. Each quarter grade makes up 40% of the second-semester final grade.
- Students are not permitted to take exams early. The exam makeup days are from Monday, June 3, to Wednesday, June 5.
Each student’s advisor is a great resource for strategies on how to prepare for the exam period. A great step at this point of the process would be for a student to sit with their advisor and plan out a preparation schedule based on their own particular needs.
Don Paige
Director of the Upper School
Announcements
Serve as a Parents’ Association Divisional Ambassador for 2024-2025 — Sign Up by Monday, May 13
You are invited to serve as a Parents’ Association Divisional Ambassador next year. The sign-up form is open through Monday, May 13.
Virtual Q&A
If you have any questions or want to learn more about the Divisional Ambassador role, the Parents’ Association will be hosting Q&A sessions with Assistant Head of School for Institutional Advancement Meredith VanDuyne.
You can also contact one of this year’s Divisional Ambassadors to hear about their experience. Please see below for more information:
Divisional Ambassador Description — Duties and Responsibilities
Junior-Senior Prom Tickets — Until Tuesday, May 28
The Junior-Senior prom is on Tuesday, June 4, 8:30-11:00 p.m., at Brentsville Hall in Manassas. Tickets will be available for purchase until May 28.
- Tickets cost $55 for seniors and $60 for juniors and guests.
- Students in Grades 9, 10, and any non-FH student may only attend as a guest of a Flint Hill junior or senior (limit of one guest per student).
- Students in Grades 11 and 12 received an email, on April 22, with the link to purchase tickets and may also refer to the Daily Report for the link.
All students must arrive no later than 9:00 p.m. and stay until 10:30 p.m. The event will be chaperoned by Flint Hill staff and security.
For students who would like to bring a guest from outside of Flint Hill, here is a link to the Prom Guest Form. Forms are due to either Mr. Kane or Mr. Chang by 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 28. All guests must have a valid, completed form on file to attend the prom.
If a guest must leave the prom before 10:30 p.m., the guest’s parent/guardian must email both Mr. Kane and Mr. Chang. To receive permission to leave early, the guest must also inform both Mr. Kane and Mr. Chang of the individual transportation arrangements. Entire groups will not be excused to leave prom early because one person within the group has an early curfew. Please contact Mr. Kane and Mr. Chang with any questions.
Upper School Awards Ceremony — Friday, May 31
We will hold the Upper School Awards Ceremony on Friday, May 31, 1:00-3:00 p.m. Because the Grade 6 and Grade 8 Promotion Ceremonies are also taking place that day in the Upper School, we are asking students to wait until 12:00 p.m. before arriving on campus so we have ample parking and space. Here are some other key pieces of information about the ceremony.
- If a student is winning an award that day, we will contact their family in advance so they can attend. Attendance for Upper School students is encouraged but not required.
- Parents attending the event should park in the Upper School visiting parking or faculty parking areas and walk over to the Upper School Gym.
- The Awards Ceremony program includes the presentation of a variety of Flint Hill endowed awards, community awards, membership in honors societies, and the announcement of the Flint Hill Medal award winners.
- Recommended dress for students — a collared shirt or blouse with khaki-style or dress pants; skirt with a blouse; or sundress.
- Students are dismissed from school immediately after the ceremony.
- Please note that there is no bus service on this day.
Bus Service Updates for 2024-25
In preparation for the 2024-25 school year, all current bus routes have been reviewed. Updates have been made to expand service and stop options for families, for the next school year. We are excited to announce two new stops: Dulles Town Center and Sully Place Shopping Center on the Blue Route.
To sign up for bus service, please visit the Bus Service tile on the Resource Board.
Presentation Slides from Parent Education Series "Rethinking Parenting Anxious Kids"
Slides from the Parent Education Series presentation given by Jennifer Weaver, LCSW, and Amy Killy, LCSW, at the Upper School on Wednesday, April 17, and Middle School on Thursday, April 18, are now available.
Enroll for the Summer 2025 Europe Leadership Conference Trip
Thanks to all who attended the meeting about our upcoming trip to the EF Leadership Conference in Europe in Summer 2025. In the summer of 2025, we will be participating with EF Educational Tours to offer a student trip to Europe that has a leadership component for current 8th, 9th, and 10th graders at Flint Hill. When students travel, they expand their knowledge of the world around them, discover more about themselves, and grow more confident. These skills are critical for creating the global citizens of tomorrow, and we would love to have your student join us on this adventure.
Space is limited, and is first-come, first-served! Lock in one of the remaining 9 of 15 guaranteed spots available with a $95 Enrollment Fee by Friday, April 26. By enrolling now, you will also receive a $300 tour scholarship and qualify for your risk-free enrollment period! Enroll now with this link: www.eftours.com/2760863BB
View the Parent Guide to Travel from EF Educational Tours. This guide covers all the details about EF, including options for academic credit, payments plans and what to expect on tour. Additionally, once you enroll, you will have access to your individual fundraising page and will be able to apply for EF’s Global Citizen Scholarship.
*Please note the price on the enrollment page is not correct as it does not include the mandatory upgrade to double occupancy rooms per Flint Hill School policy. Due to the setup of the EF systems, that will be applied after enrollment, and will be an additional $1,200.
Still have questions? EF's Traveler Support Team can help through their online chat at https://www.eftours.com/contact-us or by phone at 800-665-5364.
Enter a Raffle to Win a Trip to Paradise While Supporting Flint Hill!
Escape for a 7-night adventurous yet romantic getaway at Hamanasi Adventure & Dive Resort in Belize! Your stay includes accommodation in a run-of-house room, including daily breakfast, welcome drink, and free use of kayaks and bikes in the local area.
Proceeds benefit the Parents’ Association Endowment for Financial Aid in Honor of Sally Hazel. Since 2012, the endowment has supported financial aid for students whose families experienced unexpected financial hardship.
HOW TO ENTER
- By Wednesday, May 22, at 8:00 p.m., purchase raffle tickets online and arrange to pick up your stubs, or contact Tiffany Parry to arrange a visit to the Miller House, on the Lower School campus, to purchase tickets in person.
THE DRAWING
- The drawing will be held and recorded on Thursday, May 23, 2:30 p.m., at the Westfields Golf Club.
- Winner need not be present to win.
- The winning raffle ticket will be announced on Thursday, May 23, via email to all ticket-holders who provided their email address.
- The winning raffle ticket number will also be posted on the landing page.
The raffle is open to anyone over the age of 18. Parents, faculty, staff, friends, and neighbors may purchase too. Visit flinthill.org/raffle to buy tickets and learn more! Contact Tiffany Parry with any questions.
Reminders
Upper School Visual Arts Show Opening Reception — Tonight
Please join us as we celebrate the Visual Arts in the Upper School on Wednesday, April 24, 5:30-7:30 p.m., for the Visual Arts Showcase and Reception. The exhibition will include a variety of student works, including ceramics, digital art, filmmaking, drawing, painting, sculpture, and mixed media created throughout the year. In addition, on the second level of the building, you can view the Portfolio Art Exhibition, “Our True Nature” featuring Bella Bloom ’24, Jessica Li ’24, Hannah Reeder ’24, and Clara Stevens ’24. We encourage all community families to attend and bring friends. The work will be on display until Thursday, May 23.
Final Reminder: Parent Survey Closes Tonight
On April 10, parents received an email from surveys@isminc.com with a unique link to complete the 2023-24 Flint Hill Parent Survey. Please send in your feedback by 12:00 a.m. tonight, Wednesday, April 24. The survey is being administered by Independent School Management and all individual survey responses are confidential. The purpose of this survey is to gauge perceptions, experiences, and satisfaction levels regarding various aspects of the School.
How Families Can Navigate the New World of College Admissions — Tonight
Flint Hill is a member of the Parents Council of Washington (PCW), which hosts programming for member schools throughout the school year. All PCW member school parents, administrators, faculty, and staff are invited to register for PCW’s free Spring Speaker Series webinar, "How Families Can Navigate the New World of College Admissions" on Wednesday, April 24, 7:00-8:30 p.m. Register here.
See You at Night on the Hill — Friday, April 26
We are excited for a fun evening this Friday, April 26, 8:00-10:00 p.m., at the Upper School, and encourage you to participate in the activities throughout the building. Cocktails, food, and music will be in the Commons. Those who prefer a quieter space can visit the study-break lounge in the Learning Commons. Those attending should have received an email from Meredith VanDuyne this afternoon with helpful information about the event.
Wondering what to wear? Check out these ideas from Klondike. Contact Olivia Landrum if you have questions or if your plans changed.
Kaleidoscope Parent Book Club — Monday, May 6
Our final meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 6, 8:30-9:30 a.m., in the Peterson Middle School conference room. We will meet to discuss “The Sun Is Also a Star” by Nicola Yoon. Our book club provides a safe and engaging space for parents to read, discuss, and reflect on thought-provoking narratives that have been deemed too controversial. We've curated a diverse selection of banned books from various genres and eras that have sparked debates and provoked change. RSVP here for the meeting. If you have any questions, please email All-School Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Coordinator Miles Henderson.
A Reminder About Modern Language Exams
The Modern Language Final Exams are on Friday, May 24. However, because these exams measure proficiency, not only in Reading and Writing but also Listening and Speaking, they have a unique schedule. On Friday, May 24, we will conduct the Reading and Writing. We will conduct the Listening and Speaking portions the week of May 13 to give students adequate time because they require one-on-one time with the instructor of the courses. This message is shared with the students in their Modern Language classes, but we wanted to make sure that parents were aware as well.
Reserve Tickets for the Upper School Musical, “Legally Blonde” — May 3-5
The online box office for the Upper School Musical, “Legally Blonde,” is now open. An amazing cast of Upper School performers will bring this exciting show to life. There are three performances: Friday, May 3, 7:00-9:30 p.m.; Saturday, May 4, 7:00-9:30 p.m.; Sunday, May 5, 2:00-4:30 p.m. Location: Hazel Lower School, Olson Theater. Tickets are free, but reservations are recommended. Reserve your tickets today!
Note: While all are invited, we recommend this musical for grades 5 and up; it is rated PG and contains suggestive themes and language. Use your best judgment as to whether it's appropriate for your student.
Clinic or 18-Holes: There’s Still Time to Sign Up for the Flint Hill Golf Invitational & Skills Social — Thursday, May 23
Whether you want to play in the tournament or learn the basics, the Flint Hill Golf Invitational & Skills Social is a fun day of community building, and all abilities are welcome. Join Head of School Patrick McHonett and his wife, Jessica, at the Skills Social — clubs included — to learn from the pros. Spend the day with fellow Huskies, enjoy lunch, and try your luck at many fun contests and prizes. Spots are filling up quickly, but we want to see you! Grab your spot here.
Game Cancellations Due to Inclement Weather
With the spring season comes a lot of rain and the potential for cancellations. 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. 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.
Space Available! Summer on the Hill Athletic Camps
Summer on the Hill Athletic Camps are designed to provide campers with the opportunity to work with our exceptional coaches, their star staff, and members of their teams. Check out our offerings below and register now!
Girls’ Basketball
Dates: July 15-19
Price: $450
Grades: Rising 3-9
Time: 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Register Now!
Join the 2023 Conference Champion Flint Hill Huskies and Head Varsity Girls’ Basketball Coach Sedrick Winston for camp this summer! The camp will provide an opportunity for young girls to learn the fundamentals of basketball, improve their skills, and have fun in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Boys’ Basketball
Dates: July 8-12, July 22-26
Price: $450
Grades: Rising 3-9
Time: 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Register Now!
Join Rico Reed, longtime Flint Hill Boys' Varsity basketball coach, his staff, and players for a week of skills and fundamentals, full-court games, and group activities to improve your campers’ individual and team skills.
Co-ed Flag Football
Dates: June 24-28
Price: $450
Grades: Rising 5-9
Time: 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Register Now!
Join Flint Hill’s Head Varsity Football Coach Kirk Peterson and his staff for the first annual Flint Hill Flag Football Camp emphasizing good sportsmanship, the importance of teamwork, and a focus on basic football skills, games, agility, and position training.
Boys’ Lacrosse
Dates: June 17-21 (closed June 19)
Price: $360
Grades: Rising 4-8
Time: 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Register Now!
Join Flint Hill Head Lacrosse Coach Adam Rice and his staff, including current Flint Hill players, for a week of learning fundamentals, skill development, and thrilling matches!
Girls’ Volleyball
Dates: June 24-28
Price: $225
Grades: Rising 5-8, 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Grades: Rising 9-12, 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Register Now!
Join Flint Hill coach and former professional volleyball player Rhamat Alhassan for this half-day volleyball camp! Campers will learn the knowledge, discipline, work ethic, leadership, and competitive edge needed to take them to the next level!
Concessions Volunteers Needed
We need many volunteers to keep both the Igloo and the Den running until the end of the school year! It’s a great way to meet other parents while supporting our community. Sign up for as many shifts as you'd like, and invite a friend to join you.
Upcoming Events
Upper School Visual Arts Show Opening Reception
Wednesday, April 24
Upper School Commons, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Webinar: How Families Can Navigate the New World of College Admissions
Wednesday, April 24
7:00-8:30 p.m.
Register
Parents’ Association Divisional Ambassador Q&A Virtual Session
Thursday, April 25
12:00-12:30 p.m.
Google Meet Link
Night on the Hill
Friday, April 26
Upper School Campus, 8:00-10:00 p.m.
RSVP
Upper School Fine Arts Awards Ceremony
Monday, April 29
Upper School Campus, 1:15-2:15 p.m.
Parents’ Association Divisional Ambassador Q&A Virtual Session
Tuesday, April 30
7:30-8:00 p.m.
Google Meet Link
Fall Schedules and Tryout Information on Husky Hub
Wednesday, May 1
Senior Day
Friday, May 3
Upper School Commons
Junior and Senior Flag Football Game
Friday, May 3
Middle and Upper School Campus, Peterson Family Field, 1:15-2:15 p.m.
Upper School Musical, “Legally Blonde”
Friday and Saturday, May 3-4, 7:00-9:30 p.m.
Sunday, May 5, 2:00-4:30 p.m.
Hazel Lower School, Olson Theater
Reserve Tickets
AP Exams
May 6-17
Kaleidoscope Parent Book Club
Monday, May 6
Peterson Middle School Conference Room, 8:30-9:30 a.m.
RSVP
Captain's Leadership Brunch
Wednesday, May 8
Upper School Learning Commons, 1:15-2:15 p.m.
Deadline to Sign Up for Parents’ Association Divisional Ambassador
Monday, May 13
Sign-up Form
Volunteer Appreciation Reception
Friday, May 17
Peterson Middle School Terrace, 8:30-9:30 a.m.
Upper School Spring Athletic Awards Ceremony
Tuesday, May 21
Upper School Gym, 1:15-2:15 p.m.
Upper School Reading Day
Wednesday, May 22
Deadline to Enter Belize Trip Raffle
Wednesday, May 22
8:00 p.m.
Enter to Win!
Flint Hill Golf Invitational
Thursday, May 23
Westfields Golf Club, 10:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Register
Upper School Exams
Thursday, May 23 - Thursday, May 30
Thursday, May 23 — History
Friday, May 24 — Modern Languages
Tuesday, May 28 — English
Wednesday, May 29 — Math
Thursday, May 30 — Science
Memorial Day
Monday, May 27
Grades JK-12 No Classes
Uniform and Spirit Wear Drop Off
May 28 - June 3
Lower School Campus, Miller House
End of Fourth Quarter/Second Semester
Thursday, May 30
Lower, Middle, and Upper School Last Day of School
Thursday, May 30
Upper School Awards Ceremony
Friday, May 31
Upper School Gym, 1:00-3:00 p.m.
