Judges' Docket

Please see this letter from Mrs. Braithwaite regarding the second semester events for seniors (English/ Spanish)

Additionally, you can visit this link to purchase the cap and gown unit for graduation. If you are interested in other packages containing announcements, click here.

The JHHS PTSO is excited to partner with Richard and Sarah Bell and Jordan Springs Market to provide a BBQ dinner to our faculty and staff before Conference Night on February 13th-- and we could use your help to make it a success! We are asking for donations of chips, drinks, desserts, and paper goods for the dinner. Donations must be dropped off to the main office before noon on Thursday, February 13th. If you'd like to participate but are unable to make it to school that day, please comment when signing up and we'll pick up your donation! If you have any questions or concerns, please email Trice Cesnik at trice@cesnik.com. Thank you so much for your contribution!

Please click here for directions to the conference scheduler. Conferences with teachers who teach at the Innovation Center will take place in John Handley High School's main cafeteria.

Below are the results of our weekly grade level attendance challenge.
In 3rd place, with 87% are the Sophomores
Tied for 2nd place with 90% are the Seniors and the Freshmen

And for the fourth week in a row...
In 1st place with 91% are the Juniors

Congratulations class of 2026!!!!

Seniors: This newsletter was sent to you by our Counseling Department. Please make sure you review it in its entirety.

Senator Mark Warner invites high school and middle school students, their parents or guardians, and school counselors to Academy Day 2025. Attendees will be provided a comprehensive overview of the United States service academies and their admission processes.

In addition, students will be able to meet with officials from all five academies as well as representatives from the Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board, Navy Talent Acquisition Group (NTAG) Richmond, ROTC programs at the University of Virginia, the United States Marine Corps, the Virginia Military Institute, the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets, and the Virginia Women's Institute for Leadership at Mary Baldwin University. Staff from Virginia Congressional offices will be available to answer questions regarding the application procedures for congressional nominations.

Save the Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025
Time: 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Location: University of Mary Washington, Dodd Auditorium in George Washington Hall, 1301 College Ave, Fredericksburg, VA 22401

Invitation to follow. To ensure you receive it and the registration link for the event, please email academy_noms@warner.senate.gov. For more information on the Academy Nomination Process, please visit www.warner.senate.gov.

The Virginia School Boards Association is holding a personal essay/speaking contest where the first-place winner will present before an audience of more than 200 school board members and administrators at the 2025 VSBA Conference on Education held at the Hilton Richmond Hotel & Spa at Short Pump on July 25, 2025. Additionally, the first-place winner will have the opportunity to present at the 2025 Student School Board Representative Workshop at the Williamsburg Lodge in Williamsburg, Virginia on November 19, 2025.

This is the fifth year the Virginia School Boards Association will hold this contest. We hope that this contest will bring out the very best in students’ writing and speaking efforts and allow our attendees to witness examples of bright, thoughtful, and accomplished students from around the state. This year’s topic is: Champions for Impact.

The first-place winner will receive a $1,000 scholarship. Submissions are open to all Virginia public high school students (grades 9-12), in divisions that are members of the VSBA. This contest is as a great opportunity for students to share their unique voices as well as compete for funds to further their education. This year’s contest is sponsored by Haney Phinyowattanachip, PLLC.

The deadline for submissions is Monday, May 5, 2025

Click here to view and download this year’s contest guide.

The mission of MVGS is to engage students in a technology-enhanced program, exploring connections within an integrated curriculum of advanced mathematics, science, and the humanities through collaborative research. MVGS challenges students to grow as critical thinkers, leaders, and innovators to maximize their future roles in a constantly changing global society. Applications can be found here: English / Spanish.

Future Educators Academy (FEA) is a college partnership lab school that prepares rising high school juniors aspiring to be elementary and special education teachers through dual enrollment using accelerated, hands-on learning.

After obtaining their two-year associate degree from Laurel Ridge, FEA students can transfer to a partner institution and earn their bachelor’s degree and teacher licensure two years after their high school graduation. The College has articulation agreements in place for transfer with local universities and is working on specific agreements for Future Educator Academy students.

There will be two more Student/Parent zoom sessions scheduled for 7 p.m. on November 14 and November 20. The links to the sessions may be found at the Laurel Ridge/Early College/FEA website Future Educators Academy ‣ Laurel Ridge Community College.

The application window is November 1 through January 23.

Please see the Summer Residential Governor's School Program presentations in english and spanish.

1. Virginia Boys State

2. Youth Cadet Law Enforcement Program

3. Virginia Girls State *

The Youth Cadet Law Enforcement Program is open to both male and female students. It is conducted at the Virginia State Police Academy, in collaboration with the Virginia State Police and the American Legion.

Both the Virginia Boys State and Youth Cadet Law Enforcement Program are opportunities for personal development and leadership. These programs are fully funded by the local Post, meaning all costs for attending will be covered.

Students who are interested in applying for Virginia Boys State or Virginia Girls State should notify Ms. Fradillada as soon as possible. In addition, applicants will need to submit the following to the counseling office:

• A current resume

• A one-page statement outlining what they hope to gain from participating in their selected program.

These programs are designed to help students develop leadership skills, gain a deeper understanding of government, and build lasting connections.

For further questions or to submit your application, please contact Ms. Fradillada.

Coffee with a Company - STEM FLIGHTS - February 12th

Are you interested in learning about the Aviation Industry? If so, sign up for this Coffee with a Company session on February 12th during Advisory!

STEM Flights is a national nonprofit organization that connects Middle and High School students with volunteer Pilot Mentors to learn about Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM). STEM Flights inspires America’s youth to pursue STEM and aviation careers with a unique flight experience. Learn more about STEM Flights here.

Sign up to attend this session here.

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Pathways to Public Service: Exploring Careers in Law & Criminal Justice - February 28th 🚨

To follow up with our panel from January 24th that had a focus on the law side, we will be hosting another panel at the Innovation Center highlighting careers in the Law, Public Safety, Corrections & Security Career Cluster!

This panel will be on Friday, February 28th and will have a focus on Juvenile & Adult Detention Centers, Juvenile and Adult Probation, mental health, etc.

If you are interested in attending this panel, please sign up here. Students who sign up must be in good academic standing with grades, attendance and behavior. Reach out to Ms. Weinstein with any questions.

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Shenandoah Valley Career Showcase - March 25th ‼️

Juniors & Seniors - You’re Invited to our Annual Shenandoah Valley Career Showcase! Local business & industry partners have been asked to highlight their organization's training paths for students. Employers will provide and/or pay for you to have the training you need to be employed right out of high school -- some jobs with no college degree required. You can save time and money, and have a great career with opportunities to be promoted.

This event will be held in the secondary gym at Handley on Tuesday, March 25th. Your time slot will be emailed to you after you sign up and closer to the day of the event.

Please sign up to attend this event here.

Some of the partners signed up so far are: Cornet (Fire Protection Services), Roman's Hair Academy, Lantz Construction, STEM Flights, Winchester Police Department, Marlow Auto Group, Valley Health, ERA Oakcrest Realty, Navy Federal Credit Union, Frederick County Sheriff's Office, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen and MORE!

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Rising Seniors - Leadership Cohort Opportunity ✊

Current juniors (rising seniors) - Are you interested in pursuing a career in Leadership? If so, apply for our first Leadership Cohort happening over the summer! Selected students will have the opportunity to shadow 6 local leaders over the summer from June-July while simultaneously reading a book focused on Leadership. This cohort will be limited to 4-5 students. Local leaders could include School Division Administration, Local Government, Financial Institution leaders & more.

Students may apply here by March 31, 2025. Along with the application, you must also have a letter of recommendation from a teacher or counselor. Your teacher/counselor may email this to Ms. Weinstein or interoffice it to the Innovation Center with Ms. Weinstein's attention.

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Home Instead is looking for caring and compassionate Care Professionals (Care Pros) and CNAs to join their team ❤️‍🩹

Interested in becoming a Care Pro with Home Instead? We will be taking a small group of students to Home Instead to learn more about career opportunities and their mission of enhancing the lives of aging adults throughout the community. This will be on February 18th. More information to come. Learn more about Home Instead here.

Sign up to attend here.

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Shockey is hiring a Carpenter Apprentice! 🚧

This opportunity is perfect for seniors with availability in their schedule who are interested in the Construction trade to get their foot in the door for after graduation!

Candidates must be available to work 4 hours per day (20 hours per week minimum) on construction sites within 30 miles of Winchester. Must have a valid driver’s license and transportation. Starting pay $15.00 - $16.00/per hour.

If you're interested in this opportunity, reach out to Ms. Weinstein.

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**Please note: For students to be eligible to attend career exploration opportunities, they must be in good academic standing. i.e. grades, behavior and attendance. For questions about any of these opportunities or to sign up, please visit the link included or reach out to Ms. Weinstein, Work-Based Learning Coach or Ms. Hall, Transition Specialist**

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly changing how we live and learn. AI tools offer exciting possibilities for creativity and education, but it's important to guide students on their safe and responsible use. Take time to read this Common Sense Media article and check out their What is ChatGPT? Advice Video to learn how these resources are impacting the educational and societal landscape.

The Handley Parent Teacher Student Organization (the PTSO) works to strengthen relationships between families and faculty. We do this by sponsoring events, volunteering at school, and supporting our kids, teachers and staff.

Unlike most Parent/Teacher/Student Organizations, we charge no membership fee. We're grateful for all of the ways our families contribute to the Handley community - whether it's with your time, your culinary efforts, or your donations. Now, the Handley PTSO is also able to accept credit card donations via PayPal!

If you're able to spare a monetary donation to support our work benefitting Handley students, teachers, and staff, we are grateful for any amount. Cash and checks may be left for us at the front office. Or click here to reach PayPal!

Sign up for our monthly emails by clicking here.

The Canvas Learning Management System (LMS) is the online classroom software used by WPS. It’s where teachers can post content, discussion, and assessments. It’s where students can extend their learning outside of the normal classroom and school day.

Teachers can post all their class content in one place, including a calendar for due dates, links to class resources like videos, posted homework assignments (and tips on how to turn it all in), etc.

Students can see all their assignments, due dates, and class materials in one spot. They can turn in assignments and see teacher feedback.

Please note that the official gradebook for WPS is PowerSchool GradeBook. Grades in Canvas may not reflect the final grade for a course. For more information please click here.

We are pleased to announce a new Athletics Admission Program for the 2024-2025 school year. Instead of paying $6.00 per person to attend games, Handley students will now have free admission to all regular season events played at home. By simply presenting their Handley ID at the gate, JHHS students can now support their peers without the added barrier of ticket cost. This program would not be possible without the support of our community sponsors: Handy Mart, H.N. Funkhouser and Shenandoah Valley Orthodontics. The Athletics Admission Program will begin with JV and Varsity Volleyball games on Tuesday, August 27 vs. Hampshire and the Varsity Football game on Saturday, August 31 vs. Musselman. The full athletics schedule can be found on the JHHS Athletics website and below under "Other Important Information."

Please note: The Athletics Admission Program provides free admission for Handley students and does not include students from other WPS schools.

Our dress code can be found on Page 27 of our Parent/Student Handbook which delineates the acceptable school dress code, under School Board Policy JFC - Student Code of Conduct Policy.

The dress code reads as follows:

Dress Code

1. Clothing must cover areas from one armpit across to the other armpit, down to 3 inches in length on the upper thighs (see image below). Tops must have shoulder straps.

2. Shoes must be worn at all times and should be safe for the school environment (pajamas,

bedroom shoes or slippers shall not be worn, except for school activities approved by the

principal).

3. See-through or mesh garments must not be worn without appropriate coverage underneath that meet the minimum requirements of the dress code.

4. Headgear including hats, hoodies, and caps are not allowed unless permitted for religious,

medical, or other reasons by school administration.

5. Specialized courses may require specialized attire, such as sports uniforms or safety gear.

Updating Demographic Information: To update any demographic information such as address, telephone number, or email, please log into your PowerSchool parent portal.

Cellphone Procedure: The new Cell Phone Procedure will be in effect on the first day of school. Students will put their personal electronic devices in pouches during class and lunch. When transitioning in the hallway, personal electronic devices cannot be visible and will need to be in bookbags or in clothing pockets. Review these frequently asked questions for more information.

Communication with Teachers: Our primary communication tool for contacting teachers is TalkingPoints, a multilingual family-teacher engagement program accessible via SMS or through an Android/iOS app. For more information, please refer to the Getting Started Guide.

Vaccinations: The Virginia Department of Health requires students receive the Meningococcal Conjugate (MenACWY) vaccine before they can begin 12th grade. Students will not be able to start 12th grade classes without proof of these vaccines. Please submit proof of vaccinations to our nurse or the front office.

Student Support List

Get Involved: List of our clubs

Tryout Dates

Student Physical form (students who want to participate in a sport must have a physical)

Fall Athletics Schedule

Important Events Schedule for the First Semester: Here are important dates to be aware of so you can plan accordingly. Dates are subject to change. We will communicate any changes in a timely manner.

Here is a list of all the JHHS Clubs and Activities available to students. Explore your options and find a place to get involved! Students that are interested in clubs can email the club sponsor.

Our Mission:

The mission of the JAA is to provide financial support to the Handley athletic program and its student athletes. Specifically, the JAA awards scholarships to graduating Handley student-athletes and purchases equipment for uniforms for the athletic departments.

Become a Member and help the JAA’s continued commitment to and support of Handley Athletics and its Student-Athletes!

For your annual membership, click the code.

Student Support List

Student Tech Support times are daily 8:15 - 9:00 and 11:30 - 12:15.

Here is the school lunch menu.

Here is the Emil & Grace Shihadeh Innovation Center lunch menu.

For the duration of this school year, Comcast will continue to partner with WPS to provide eligible families with one year of free internet service.

Families can learn more by visiting this webpage. In short, we provide the promo code, and Comcast, ultimately, determines eligibility. School Social Workers will have the necessary information to provide assistance to a family who would like to apply.

All seniors need the meningitis vaccine, please turn in your record of vaccine to the nurses clinic.

If your student would like to receive tylenol, ibuprofen or pepto bismol during the school year please send in an unopened bottle with their name and signed authorization form.

Any student requiring prescribed medication during school hours please complete the Student Medication Authorization. Form needs to be signed by the health care provider.

Please refer to this school bus locator to find the bus stop closest to you.

Have you registered for SchoolCash Online, our new option for processing student/school fees online? You are encouraged to register now as there will be many items that you can pay for online as we expand use of this service. More information, including registration details, an introduction video, help with logging in, etc. are available on our website. Simply click on the SchoolCash Online link from the Parents, Students, or Staff Quick Links page, or click here to go directly to the information page.