LVHS Weekly Update
February 2, 2024
SEMESTER INFORMATION
As we look ahead to the second semester, we wanted to reach out to you with a few reminders and information related to our LVHS pillars.
Student Attendance
Early dismissal process
Parents, if you student needs an early dismissal, please follow the process HERE
Students are not permitted to sign themselves out without first having a verified pass issued from the main office. The documented request from a parent is for safety and student accountability.
School doors do not open until 8:45 am. If a teacher has an appointment with a student earlier than 8:45 am, the teacher will meet the student at the door at the appointed time.
Attendance reminders
We encourage parents to review their student's attendance to ensure that they do not accumulate more than 17 absences in a school year. If you need support with your student’s attendance or other needs, please connect with your student’s school counselor. Click here for more information on student attendance.
Student Behavior
Thank you families and students for your support with our cell phone guidelines.
- As a reminder, phones are prohibited during instructional time and in common areas, including during Viking Time. Phones remain put away during transitions in Viking Time.
- The expectation is all classrooms and teachers implement these guidelines school-wide.
Teaching and Learning
During the week of January 23, 2024, school counselors will be sharing course selection information with students in grades 9-11 during their English class.
Report cards will be available to view in StudentVUE and ParentVUE on January 30, 2024.
Save the Dates
- Loudoun Valley & Blue Ridge Combined Band Concert: February 21, 2024, 7:00pm
- LVHS Athletic Parent Meetings: February 28, 2024, 6:30pm
- Superintendent Visit with Loudoun Valley High School: February 29, 2024, 7:00 - 8:30pm
- Loudoun Valley High School Cluster Art Show: February 29 - March 2, 2024
- LCPS Spring Break: March 25 - 29, 2024
- LVHS Spring Musical: April 12 - 14, 2024
- LVHS Prom: April 19, 2024, Shadow Creek
- Orchestra Spring Concert: May 1, 2024, 7:00pm
- Choir Spring Concert: May 2, 2024, 7:00pm
- Band Spring Concert: May 15, 2024, 7:00pm
- Viking Voyage for Rising 9th Grade Parents: May 16, 2024, 6:00pm
- Guitar Spring Concert: May 17, 2024, 7:00pm
- Last Instructional Day for Seniors: June 6, 2024
- LVHS Senior Day: June 7, 2024
- Last Day of School: June 14, 2024
- LVHS Graduation: June 15, 2024, 9:00am
BELL SCHEDULE
Please visit the main page of our LVHS website or see the attached document for our LVHS bell schedules. This includes our daily schedule, along with one hour and two hour delay schedules.
COURSE INFORMATION NIGHT RESOURCES
Below are some helpful resources related to Course Information Night, which was held January 10, 2024. This event gives a high level overview of course offerings available at Loudoun Valley High School, as well as contact information for each department.
During the event, the following information was shared:
Additionally, during the event multiple questions were asked. We captured these questions and provided answers in this Course Information Night FAQ 24-25.
TESTING
iREADY TESTING
The winter iReady Growth testing window will run from January 8--Feb 2. LVHS students, who have been identified as needing additional testing, will be administered the iReady in order to measure academic growth and next instructional steps. Applicable students will be tested during Viking Time or study hall.
ATTENTION JUNIORS!
Save the date: March 11 and 12 for Writing SOL
The Writing SOL is a two-day test. The multiple-choice section will be administered on March 11 and the short paper section will be administered on March 12. Makeups are March 13 and 14. Testing will begin at 9:30 each day. A fully charged LCPS device is required for testing. Students will receive an email with their testing location at the beginning of March. Reach out to Ms. Stecura with questions.
TESTING COORDINATOR
Ms. Stecura is Loudoun Valley’s School Testing Coordinator. Her office is located in the main office. The best way to contact Ms. Stecura is through email at melissa.stecura@lcps.org.
The LVHS Testing Website has more information about testing.
INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE
International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Interest Questionnaire
Audience:
8th Grade Students and Families at Blue Ridge
9th Grade Students and Families at Loudoun Valley High School
We request that all current 8th grade students at Blue Ridge Middle School and 9th grade students at Loudoun Valley High School interested in possibly pursuing the IB Diploma program to please complete the questionnaire linked here: Pre-International Baccalaureate Student Interest Collection by Friday, February 2nd.
The purpose of the questionnaire is to identify a student’s interest in pursuing the International Baccalaureate Diploma, which will impact the recommended courses a student would take next year (24-25 school year). This opportunity is available for all students who will attend Loudoun Valley High School. We request that each student identify their interest on or before Friday, February 2nd so that our counseling team knows how to best advise students during our pre-scheduling process.
If you have any questions pertaining to the International Baccalaureate program please reach out to Michael.Skvarch@lcps.org Loudoun Valley’s International Baccalaureate Coordinator.
2023-2024 CELL PHONE EXPECTATIONS
At Loudoun Valley High School, we value teaching and learning and we reflect often on ways to improve and grow as a school community. Our Valley teachers, staff, and students have indicated a common theme that must be addressed as we prepare for this upcoming school year: student cell phone and earbud use in class. This year teachers have expressed concerns with students’ use of cell phones and the impacts it has had on engagement in instruction, opportunities to build collaborative relationships with peers, and building and utilizing critical thinking skills.
For the 23-24 school year, our school wide expectation is that students place their cell phones and earbuds in the designated space in each classroom. Phones will not be accessible during instructional time or Viking Time. Students may use their phones and earbuds during class changes, study hall, and lunch.
Students are not permitted to bring cell phones to the bathroom. Students should use all LCPS provided apps on their LCPS provided Chromebooks such as e-hallpass and Remind.
If students need to communicate with parents, coaches, employers, etc., they should do so during passing periods or lunch. If it is an immediate concern, students may go to the main office. Likewise, if you need to reach your student for an emergency, please contact the main office.
We ask that you begin having this conversation with your students now so they can start to understand these new changes in our Valley practices at the beginning of the 2023-24 school year.
For additional information and resources to support your student in this transition, please see below from the LVHS United Mental Health Team. This is a rich resource with helpful information and we invite you to take a moment to look through it.
https://www.hhs.gov/surgeongeneral/priorities/youth-mental-health/social-media/index.html
This initiative for the 23-24 school year is a collective and collaborative effort with the LVHS leadership team, teachers, students, administrators, and counselors. Together, we can work to strengthen learning engagement for students and improve their opportunities to go deeper in developing important life and learning skills.
COUNSELING AND MENTAL HEALTH
FOLLOW OUR COUNSELING DEPARTMENT ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Instagram: @valleyschoolcounseling
CHECK OUT THE NEW COUNSELING DEPARTMENT NEWSLETTER
Click below to read the newsletter
STUDY SKILLS & ACADEMIC MOTIVATION PRESENTATIONS
LCPS MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES FOR STUDENTS
This website offers comprehensive mental health services, support and resources provided by our Unified Mental Health Teams (counselors, psychologists, social workers, school nurses, and student assistance specialists) who can assist and direct families to the right level of services or interventions.
Available information includes:
- How to contact your school’s Unified Mental Health Team
- Resources for parents
- Suicide prevention resources
- LCPS mental and behavioral health services
- Substance use prevention and intervention services
- Resources for families of LGBTQ+ students and families
- Community resources
To access the mental health website created by the Department of Student Services, please visit: www.lcps.org/MentalHealthServices
MEET YOUR UNIFIED MENTAL HEALTH TEAM
MEET YOUR UNIFIED MENTAL HEALTH TEAM
As we approach Mental Health Awareness Month, Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS) and the Unified Mental Health Team (UMHT) at Loudoun Valley want to remind you of the opportunities and resources available to students and families. The Loudoun Valley Unified Mental Health Team supports the mental health of all Loudoun Valley students.
SUBSTANCE USE TRENDS
PARENT DRUG EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES
Upcoming Fentanyl prevention and information awareness sessions are planned for:
- Saturday, January 27, during the United for Wellness Conference and Resource Fair at Riverside High School
- Thursday, February 13, Woodgrove High School, 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
RECOVERY FROM VAPING
VAPING: WHAT PARENTS NEED TO KNOW
Recorded parent presentation from 10/16/23:
Vaping and Other Substance Use Trends: What Parents Need to Know
If you have questions about the presentation or about anything related to substance use, please contact Amy Emery, LPC, Student Assistance Specialist at amy.emery@lcps.org or 540-751-2423.
STEP UP LOUDOUN YOUTH COMPETITION
The Step Up Loudoun Youth Competition presents middle and high school students an opportunity to identify an issue in their communities and implement a solution as they contribute to the world around them.
Registration for the Step Up Loudoun Youth Competition is now open. You will find information about SULYC and the link for the application at: www.loudounyouth.org under Programs: Step Up Loudoun Youth Competition.
LOUDOUN YOUTH LEADERSHIP PROGRAM
LYLP is a week-long experience designed to introduce youth to leadership concepts and communication skills while giving them exposure and interaction with local business, government and community leaders. Open to all Loudoun County rising sophomores, juniors and seniors, candidates participate in leadership workshops, have interactive sessions with county leaders and gain exposure to technology, business and agricultural economic drivers in Loudoun.
Please share the attached flyer with your students. Registration is open till March 15, and no student will be turned away. Financial aid will be available to qualifying students.
MINDFULNESS PROGRAMS AT UMASS CENTER FOR MINDFULLNESS
Please see the document below for information about upcoming Mindfulness programs at UMASS.
CAREER CENTER
CAREER & TRADE EXPO 2024
Loudoun Valley HS
Thursday, Feb 8
6 to 8pm
Weather date of Feb 22
Come enjoy a free evening out learning about trade careers and other jobs in our local community! All Loudoun County high school students interested in non-college options after graduating are welcome to join us.
Representatives & information from many industries, including:
- Electricians
- HVAC
- Cosmetology
- Hair Stylist
- Landscaping
- Monroe Technology Center
- Plumbing Automotive
- Real Estate
- Vet Tech
- Hospitality
- and more
FAFSA WORKSHOP
Please see information below about an upcoming FAFSA workshop.
UVA/NORTHERN VIRGINIA'S INSPIRE SUMMER PROGRAM
PRIORITY APPLICATION DEADLINE: February 23, 2024
The countdown is on, and we want YOU to secure your spot before time runs out. Here's all you need to do:
1. Select your favorite class(es):
- Introduction to Programming: Python
- McIntire Business Institute
- College Essay Writing
- Forensic Science
- Branding and Marketing
- Creative Writing
2. Submit an application.
It's that easy! If you want to take multiple classes, you only need to submit ONE application. Just select all of the classes you want to apply for on your application.
Questions? Reach out to us at inspire.northern@virginia.edu.
MILITARY NIGHT AT INDEPENDENCE HIGH SCHOOL
Independence HS will be hosting this year's Military Night on Monday, February 26th.
PART-TIME & SUMMER JOB FAIR
NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY
NHS TUTORING
NHS chapter is continuing its peer tutoring program, with goals of increasing the usage and awareness of the program. Our goal is to support you and our fellow students by providing NHS tutors to supplement a student’s learning process.
NHS members have indicated the subject areas in which they feel comfortable tutoring, ranging from World History to Calculus BC! Students will have the opportunity to directly fill out a Google Form to request a peer tutor and will then be connected to someone who fits their needs.
Here is the link to the form which students may use to request a tutor: https://forms.gle/hBt5dh76EvWF2kVB6
Tutors will facilitate the learning process with a strong emphasis on academic integrity.
YEARBOOK
Yearbook senior recognition ads are still available, but spots are very limited and available on a first come, first serve basis until they’re gone. Email loudounvalleyyearbook@gmail.com to check availability. Prices are as follows:
Eighth page $125
Quarter page $250
Half page $350
Full page $700
ATHLETICS
EXPECTATIONS FOR ATTENDANCE AT LOUDOUN VALLEY VIKING HOME ATHLETIC EVENTS
- The TicketSpicket App is to be used for ticket purchase. Ticket cost is $7.00 per person.
- No outside food or drink is allowed
- No signs/posters are allowed
- Noisemakers are not allowed at indoor athletic events
- No backpacks or equipment bags will be allowed inside the stadium or the gym or gym lobby/hallway areas - keep them at home or in your car.
- No balls, footballs, sticks, skate boards, frisbees, etc are allowed inside the stadium or the gym areas.
- No throwing and/or playing any games on campus – including inside the stadium or gym or gym hallway areas during the games.
- If you come to the games you are expected to sit in the bleachers/ stands, watch the games and support the Valley Viking teams; walking around in groups is not allowed - parents will be called for pickup if this occurs.
- Please carry out your trash to the nearest trash receptacle.
Thank you for contributing to a safe and pleasant experience for all Viking fans and players.
LVHS Athletic Administration
https://valleyvikingsport.org/
LVHS BOOSTERS
SPRING SPORT TRYOUTS 2/19
All Athletes MUST register for their spring sport: https://lvhs-ar.rschooltoday.com/
All Athletes must complete the required Sudden Cardiac Arrest Course:
https://nfhslearn.com/courses/sudden-cardiac-arrest
All physicals MUST be dated after May 1, 2023 and be on the VHSL Physical Form. Make sure all 4 pages are complete with information and signatures. https://www.vhsl.org/sports-medicine/physical-examination/
PHYSICALS ARE NEEDED PRIOR TO ANY PRE-SEASON WORKOUTS
Follow our teams on Instagram:Baseball: @LoudounVallleyBaseball
Softball: @lvhs_softball Softball: Loudoun Valley Softball(Facebook)
Girls Lacrosse: @valleyglax Boys Lacrosse: @lvhslacrosse
Girls Soccer: @valleygsoc Boys Soccer: @lvhssoccer
Girls Tennis: @lvhsgirlstennis Girls Tennis: Loudoun Valley Varsity GIRLS Tennis (Facebook)
Boys Tennis: Loudoun Valley Boys Tennis (Facebook)
Track & Field: @lvhs_xc_track @lvhs_throwers
GOOD LUCK!
Good luck to our Varsity Wrestling team at Districts this Saturday at Heritage starting at 9AM
CONGRATULATIONS!
Congratulations to our Viking distance team who qualified for states and ran the Virginia class 4 leading time with their performances in the 4x800, running a time of 8:14.96.
- Bradley Bernard, Rylan Wells, Max Panica and Ty Blair
Our Viking sprinters qualified for states in the 4x200 with a time of 1:33.12.
- Jack McClelland, Justin McClelland, John Lyth, and Caleb Wolfe
2023 - 2024 Sponsors
ABESTOS MANAGEMENT
Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS) performs regular inspections of school buildings and facilities in accordance with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA). As required by the Commonwealth of Virginia and the EPA, this notification is to inform you that asbestos-containing material (ACM) is present and managed in several locations at Loudoun Valley High School.
Prior to the 1980s, asbestos was used extensively in many building materials because of its insulating, sound-absorbing, and fire-retarding capabilities. While virtually any building constructed in the United States from the 1940s to the late 1970s contains some asbestos, intact and undisturbed asbestos-containing materials generally do not pose a health risk. It is important to note that when managing or mitigating ACM, schools are held to a higher standard for management than residences or privately owned buildings.
In our school, known areas of ACM are inspected semi-annually by licensed LCPS personnel and every three years by licensed third-party inspectors to ensure that the material does not pose an exposure hazard for building occupants. Any materials found to be in unacceptable condition or impacted by planned building work are removed by licensed professionals. Records of all inspections, response actions, and sampling data are compiled in the school’s Asbestos Management Plan document. This document also indicates the locations where asbestoscontaining materials may be present.
In 2022-2023, the following inspections and response actions were performed:
- February 2023 Periodic Visual Surveillance, All Known ACM
- August 2023 Periodic Visual Surveillance
All Known ACM Members of the community can review a copy of any school or facility’s Asbestos Management Plan, which is kept in the school or facility’s administrative office. In addition, copies of all Management Plans are maintained in the Loudoun County Public Schools Facilities Services Environmental Division offices, located at 741 Miller Drive, Leesburg, Virginia. For all inquiries regarding the asbestos management plan and asbestos-related issues in our facilities, please contact the LCPS-designated asbestos program manager, Cristina Windover, at Cristina.Windover@LCPS.org or 571-420-0513.
It is LCPS’ intention to comply with all federal and state regulations regarding asbestos and to take whatever steps necessary to ensure students and employees have a healthy and safe environment in which to learn and work.
Thank you for your attention to this important issue.
TECH SUPPORT
WHAT TO DO IF LCPS GO IS DOWN
Direct Links for Students to Instructional Tools
TOOL: Google
LINK: https://drive.google.com
HOW TO SIGN IN: Google: student email address IDnumber@lcps.org, i.e. 000000@lcps.org
TOOL: Schoology
LINK: https://learn.lcps.org
HOW TO SIGN IN: Google
TOOL: Google Meet
LINK: https://meet.google.com/ OR the link you created for your class
HOW TO SIGN IN: Google
TOOL: Clever (for app integrations)
LINK: https://clever.com/
HOW TO SIGN IN: Student ID and Password
TOOL: StudentVue
LINK: https://portal.lcps.org/
HOW TO SIGN IN: Student ID and Password
FAQs
I've used the links and received sign-in errors. Is my password wrong?
Sometimes an LCPS Go outage is limited to LCPS Go, and other times it may be a network problem affecting multiple sites. In this instance, a password or other sign-in error may or may not reflect the actual problem. Wait and try later, refresh your browser window, and clear the cache if needed.
HIGH SCHOOL TOOLKIT
Contact Information
Website: https://www.lcps.org/lvhs
Location: 340 North Maple Avenue, Purcellville, VA, USA
Phone: (540) 751-2400
Twitter: @LVHS_official
2023 All Rights Reserved – Loudoun County Public Schools