FCVS Updates - July 2024

Dear FCVS Families,

We’ve had a fantastic start to the school year, and I want to thank you for your continued support. Our transition to the comprehensive online learning model has been well-received, with students appreciating the balance of flexibility and structure.

Attendance and Participation

As we move into October, I want to remind you of the importance of attending weekly synchronous sessions. These are vital for peer collaboration and direct instruction. On asynchronous days, it's important that students use their time effectively to complete assigned work and stay on track. If a session or assignment is missed, please encourage your student to review the material and connect with their teachers for support.

Available Support

Remember, students have access to:

• Teacher Office Hours for one-on-one help.
• Special Educators and Specialists for those with IEPs/504s.
• Extended Learning and Enrichment Time (ELET) for extra assistance or enrichment.

We are excited about the opportunities ahead and remain committed to supporting your student’s success.

Warm regards,

Michael Watson

Principal, Frederick County Virtual School

FCVS Counselors, Ms. Garman and Ms. Langley, are currently meeting with seniors to discuss:

• Graduation requirements: Credits, Testing, SSL hours
• Plans for the future: College, technical college, work force, military
• Support: How they can be of assistance for the rest of the school year

Seniors should be contacting their home schools to have their senior portraits taken. Seniors also have the opportunity to participate in their home school’s graduation ceremony in May. The schedule of high school graduation dates can be found here: FCPS Graduation Dates

FCVS students remain connected to their home high schools and can participate in activities, events, athletics, etc. If you are interested in attending homecoming activities (game/dance) at your home school, make sure to monitor School Messenger notifications, check school websites, Schoology student pages, etc.

Many schools require permission forms for students to attend and most schools sell tickets in advance for games and dances (which often sell out). NOTE: FCVS does not coordinate these events but school counselors and administrators will happily complete permission forms should you need one.

Introducing Basecamp - A New Mental Wellness Platform for FCPS Students

FCPS is thrilled to announce the launch of Basecamp, a new mental wellness platform designed to support the mental health and well-being of all FCPS students. Check it out! Basecamp aims to make it easier for students to find the help and support they need, ensuring they have the tools to effectively navigate their mental health and access support, whenever they need it. By utilizing Basecamp, students can better understand their mental health, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and access a range of resources and support.

What does Basecamp offer?

Basecamp is a comprehensive platform designed to empower students and parents/caregivers with immediate access to a variety of mental health resources and services, including:

1. Educational content on a range of mental health topics relevant to students;
2. Self-guided resources to help students maintain or improve their mental health;
3. Bi-weekly surveys for students to check in on their mental health to better understand how they’re feeling over time and identify what is impacting their mental health;
4. Resource recommendations based on their current challenges;
5. Direct access to resources available to students in Frederick County.

Links to additional FCVS resources:

FCVS Quick Links

FCVS Technology Support