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Rising Seniors and Families,
I hope you are enjoying your summer! One year ago, I shared that my oldest daughter and I were just beginning the college application journey. Today, after completing the entire process as a parent for the first time, I have an even greater appreciation for what our students and families experience during senior year.
Over the past year, I have witnessed the excitement of discovering colleges that felt like the right fit, the challenge of managing deadlines and applications, and the anticipation that comes with waiting for admission decisions. I also learned firsthand how valuable it is to have trusted people available to answer questions, offer encouragement, and help navigate each step of the process.
That experience has only strengthened my appreciation for the incredible work of our school counselors, college and career specialists, teachers, and staff. At Annandale High School, we are committed to partnering with students and families throughout the college application process by providing resources, workshops, individual support, and guidance to help every senior prepare for life after high school, whether that path includes college, military service, or entering the workforce.
To support students through the college application process, all Annandale students now have access to Kaplan online PSAT and SAT preparation resources. Students should log in at https://tinyurl.com/FCPSKaplan using their FCPS username and password. Access will remain active through October 31, allowing students to prepare for multiple SAT administrations as well as the October PSAT.
I encourage you to mark your calendars and take advantage of the opportunities listed below. I will also share reminders and additional details about these events in my weekly Annandale Insider newsletter as each date approaches.
As always, please reach out if you have any questions.
Shawn DeRose, Principal
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Plan Ahead: Essential College & Career Events
Now through October 31 - Kaplan PSAT & SAT Prep Access: Annandale students now have access to Kaplan online PSAT and SAT preparation resources. To get started, students should log in at https://tinyurl.com/FCPSKaplan using their FCPS username and password. Access will remain available through October 31, giving students a valuable opportunity to prepare for multiple SAT administrations as well as the October PSAT.
Beginning September 14 - College Visits: Our College & Career Center will host visits from representatives for colleges and universities throughout the country. Juniors and Seniors will have the opportunity to hear from college admissions representatives to learn what makes their institution unique, admission requirements, financial aid, and more.
September 23 - Exploring Life After High School, 6-8pm: As senior year begins, it's the perfect time for students to start planning for life after high school. Join us on Wednesday, September 23, for an informative evening dedicated to exploring a variety of postsecondary pathways. Whether you're considering a four-year university, community college, trade school, or the military, this event offers a valuable opportunity to learn more about your options and begin shaping your future. You'll hear from representatives of each path, get your questions answered, and gain insights to help guide your next steps. Additional breakout sessions will be offered from a variety of topics for you to engage with school counseling professionals, financial aid experts, and more. Students and parents are encouraged to attend.
October 7 - SAT Day at Annandale: Annandale High School will offer seniors the opportunity to take the SAT for free during the school day on October 7. Students must sign up in advance. Stay tuned for more information. General information about the SAT School Day test format is available on the College Board webpage. More details, including registration information, will be shared in August.
October 18 - FCPS College Fair, 4-6pm: The annual FCPS College Fair is scheduled for Sunday, October 18, and will take place at George Mason University’s EagleBank Arena from 4:00pm to 6:00pm. This highly anticipated event brings together representatives from approximately 200 colleges and universities from across the country. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with a wide variety of institutions, including two-year and four-year colleges, public and private universities, and U.S. Service Academies.
October 19-30 - Virginia College Application Weeks (VCAW): During the weeks of October 19-30, students will have an opportunity to take advantage of College Application Week. Throughout the weeks, students can receive college application fee waivers for most Virginia colleges and universities, helping to reduce the financial burden of applying to multiple schools. In addition to the fee waivers, support will be available in the Career Center during all lunch periods, where counselors will be on hand to answer questions, review application materials, and guide students through the submission process. Please remember that fee waivers are only valid if your application is submitted during these designated weeks.
October 19 - FCPS Virtual Postsecondary Night: FCPS will be offering a series of virtual workshops designed to support students and families as they navigate the college admissions process. These sessions will cover a wide range of important topics, including how to prepare and apply for college, understanding and securing financial aid, and exploring various postsecondary educational pathways such as community college, vocational training programs, and military options. View previous recordings and additional information here.
November 4, December 1, and January 21 - Financial Aid Completion Workshops, 5:30-7:30pm: Annandale High School will host a College Financial Aid Workshop where students and their families can receive hands-on assistance with completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) or the VASA (Virginia Alternative State Aid) application for undocumented students. Note: Students and parents completing the FAFSA must each create an account 1-3 days before starting their application.
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Opportunities
July 22 and August 17 - Senior Pictures: It’s almost time for senior pictures for the Class of 2027! Students should receive an email from our photography company, Legacy Studios, with instructions to schedule their appointment between 8:00am - 3:00pm on July 22 and August 17. Pictures will be held in the AHS Dance Room (behind the Upstairs Gym). Please schedule your picture appointment at https://seniors.legacystudios.com/annandale-hs-va/. If you have any questions, please contact the Legacy Studios Senior Portraits Assistance for Parents/Students line at 716-512-6336 or email customercare@legacystudios.com.
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4700 Medford Drive Annandale, VA 22003 | Main Office: 703.642.4100 Attendance: 703.642.4150 | Web | Twitter
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