Centreville Students, Families, and Community,

As we enter the month of May, the end of the school year is quickly approaching. This time of year always seems to accelerate, and there is much to both celebrate and accomplish in the weeks ahead. May is also a time of recognition and reflection, as we honor Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month as well as Jewish American Heritage Month. At Centreville High School, we remain committed to fostering a community rooted in acceptance, belonging, and mutual respect. Taking time to acknowledge and celebrate these communities helps broaden our perspectives and strengthens the inclusive culture that defines the Wildcat Nation.

Last week, we began our SOL testing on a modified schedule, and I am pleased to share that the transition went smoothly. The adjusted schedule has allowed our students taking assessments to work in a focused and supportive environment, while also providing dedicated time for non-test takers to catch up on assignments and stay on track. As a reminder, for students who are arriving at 11:15 AM on testing days, please be sure to allow enough time to pass through our OpenGate security process before heading to class. We will continue with our modified schedule on Monday and Wednesday this week. For students preparing for AP exams, which begin this week, please review the important information included in the upcoming events section of this newsletter to ensure you are ready and set up for success.

This week, we proudly celebrate Staff Appreciation Week. I want to extend my deepest gratitude to our incredible staff for their unwavering dedication, professionalism, and care for our students. Each day, our teachers, counselors, support staff, and administrators go above and beyond to create meaningful learning experiences, build relationships, and support the success and well-being of every student. Their commitment is the foundation of our school community, and the Wildcat Nation would not be what it is without their passion and hard work. I encourage our students and families to take a moment this week to share a note of appreciation or a kind word with a staff member who has made a difference.

Finally, I would like to encourage all parents and guardians to join us for our next PTSA meeting on May 12. Our strong partnership with families is essential to the continued success of Centreville High School, and we are always looking to grow that collaboration. We are currently seeking parent volunteers, and we will have openings for PTSA President and Vice President for the 2026–2027 school year. If you are interested in learning more or getting involved, please see the details below. Your voice and involvement truly make a difference.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership as we move through this exciting and important time of the school year.

Go Wildcats!

Dr. Erik Healey, Principal

Upcoming Events

May 4 - Class of 2026 Yard Signs on Sale

May 4 & 6 - SOL Testing Days - Modified Student Schedule

May 4-15: AP Testing

May 4-8: Staff Appreciation Week

May 12: PTSA Meeting, Centreville Library, 6:00PM

May 14: Broadway Pops Choir Concert & Awards, Centreville Auditorium, 7:00PM

May 15: Bandemonium, Centreville High School Bus Loop, 6:30PM

May 20: Orchestra Senior Night & Symphony Concert, Centreville Auditorium, 7:00PM

May 21: Orchestra Pops Concert, Centreville Auditorium, 7:00PM

May 21: Centreville Physical Night, 6:00-8:00PM

May 25: No School - Memorial Day Holiday

May 26: Student Holiday - Teacher Workday

May 27: No School - Eid Al-Adha

May 29: Senior Awards Ceremony, Centreville Auditorium, 9:50-11:15AM

May 4 - Class of 2026 Yard Signs on Sale: Celebrate your senior in style! Class of 2026 Graduation Yard Signs are now available for purchase through the PTSA Store. Signs are $26 each, and supplies are limited. Visit https://centrevillehsptsa.givebacks.com/shop to place your order or scan the QR code shared in our materials. Don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your Class of 2026 pride!

May 4 & 6 - SOL Testing Days - Modified Student Schedule: As we approach spring testing, we are adjusting our bell schedule to create a testing environment more conducive to student success on these important end of year SOL assessments. Centreville High School’s bell schedule will be modified on April 30, May 4, and May 6. SOL testing will occur from 8:10 AM - 11:15 AM. 

For Students Taking SOLs:

• Students must take their scheduled SOL tests.
• Students will receive an email to their fcpsschools.net account with their specific testing dates and locations. Parents will also receive this information.
• Students should arrive on time with a fully charged FCPS Chromebook & charger.
• All school buses will run on their normal schedules.

For Students NOT Taking SOLs:

• Students who are at school during the testing time (8:10 AM - 11:15 AM) will be assigned to a room to work on:
• Missing assignments
• Review activities
• Other academic tasks
• Students who do not have transportation for a late arrival should ride the bus or be dropped off before 8:10am.
• Students may also complete missing assignments or review activities at home and arrive at school by 11:15AM.
• Students arriving after 11:15 AM will attend class as outlined below.

May 4-15 - AP Testing: Below is important information for students participating in AP exams the next two weeks. Please make note of exam start times, entry procedures, and permitted items. 

Exam Arrival & Start Information

• AM Exams: Arrive at 7:30AM; enter through Door #12. Testing begins promptly at 8:00AM
• PM Exams: Arrive at 11:45AM; enter through Door #1 (entry begins at 11:15 a.m.). Testing begins promptly at 12:00PM

Directions begin at the start times listed above. Students arriving after directions begin will not be admitted.

• No make-up exams except for serious, College Board–approved medical reasons.
• Students must remain until the exam officially ends. No early dismissal.
• Afternoon exams may run as late as 4:00PM
• Arrange transportation accordingly for afternoon exams.
• Students must notify coaches/employers in advance of any conflicts.

What to Bring on Exam Day

• Fully charged Chromebook
• Chromebook charger (no loaners available)
• Black or dark blue pens
• Snack in a labeled clear plastic bag (for breaks only)
• Up to two approved calculators (per College Board guidelines)

Do NOT Bring

• Electronic devices (phones, smartwatches, etc.)
• Books, notes, or dictionaries
• Rulers, compasses, scratch paper (unless approved)
• Alarm watches or cameras
• Unauthorized calculators or computers
• Correction fluid/tape, highlighters, colored pencils
• Food/drinks in the testing room
• Earplugs or clothing with subject-related information

May 4-8 - Staff Appreciation Week: Staff Appreciation Week is coming up May 4–8 at Centreville High School, and it’s a wonderful opportunity to recognize the incredible dedication of our teachers and staff. Each day, they go above and beyond to support our students, foster meaningful learning experiences, and build a strong, positive school community. Their commitment, care, and professionalism make a lasting impact on every student they serve. If you are able, please help us celebrate our staff by donating to the Staff Appreciation Fund through the PTSA. 

May 12 - PTSA Meeting: Our PTSA has had a fantastic rebuilding year, starting new initiatives and bringing back old traditions, such as the "lock in" All Night Grad Party (ANGP).  We hope to continue and expand on the PTSA's success next year, but we cannot do that without parent volunteers for the Board.  Both the President and Vice President positions are open for the 2026/2027 school year, and without at least a President the PTSA will be forced to close.  Please contact the current president, Sean Cosden, at president@cvhsptsa.org if you have questions about the positions.  Elections are planned for the PTSA/ANGP meeting at 6pm on Tuesday, May 12.

May 14 - Broadway Pops Choir Concert & Awards: Come on out for a fun evening of entertainment at the CVHS Choral Department’s last concert of the year on May 14 at 7pm! We’ve got a variety of pop songs and musical theatre songs from the 1950’s through today ready to go! Many of our graduating seniors will be performing senior solos as well. Doors open at 6:45 and admission is free (donations accepted)! May 15 - Bandemonium Concert: Centreville High School’s Wildcat Band presents the 5th Annual Bandemonium on Friday, May 15 at 6:30 PM in the bus loop—an outdoor music festival under the stars featuring a wide range of student ensembles. This year’s “OFF ROAD” theme highlights high-energy pieces centered around fast cars, with performances from all band ensembles, plus orchestra, choir, and theatre students. Food trucks and family-friendly activities like face painting and pawprint tattoos will be available, making it a fun event for all ages. Limited seating is provided, so guests are encouraged to bring blankets or chairs; in case of rain, the event will move indoors. May 20 - Orchestra Senior Night and Symphony Concert: Join the orchestras for their final two evenings of performances for the year in our very own Centreville HS auditorium!  On Wednesday, May 20th at 7:00pm, enjoy Senior Night & Symphony.  We will celebrate orchestra seniors during the first half with senior solos, awards, and a slideshow.  The second half will feature our full Symphony performing Star Wars, 1812 Overture, and the Elgar Cello Concerto performed by senior, Noah Katzen!  A black-tie reception will follow the performance—Only the performers and seniors will be in full formalwear, though, family and friends are invited to come in comfortable casual attire! May 21 - Orchestra Pops! Concert: On Thursday, May 21st at 7:00pm, treat yourself to an evening of Orchestra Pops!  The CVHS String Orchestras will take the stage to perform pops tunes from artists like Laufey and Sabrina Carpenter as well as music from Hamilton, La La Land, and The Minecraft Movie.  This is a great concert for both the young and the young at heart!  Best of all, both concerts are FREE and open to the public!  No tickets are required May 21 - Centreville High School Physical Night: Join us on Thursday, May 21 from 6:00-8:00PM if your student-athlete needs a physical for the 2026-2027 school year. All student-athletes who want to participate in sports for the 2026-2027 school year will need a current physical. Our physical nights are a fundraiser for our Athletic Training program, which provides medical care to our 1100 student-athletes and staff. By attending our night, your physical will automatically go on file at CVHS (or be transferred to your base school). All ages and students from other schools are welcome, and we will do physicals for camps, boy scouts, etc., in addition to the VHSL form if needed. The current VHSL form is located here: https://www.vhsl.org/vhsl-physical-form/. To register for our event, please use this form.

May 29 - Senior Awards Ceremony: The Class of 2026 Senior Awards Ceremony will be held on Friday, May 29 at 9:50AM in the CVHS auditorium. Invitations will be mailed to students who will be recognized on stage for their accomplishments and dedication to their learning and education. A follow up email will be sent to the parents and guardians of invited students. It will include an RSVP link to ensure students will be in attendance to receive their award at this prestigious event.

Wonderful Wildcats

CVHS Boys’ Tennis Senior Night: We are proud to recognize our Boys’ Tennis seniors who were celebrated during a special Senior Night honoring their contributions to the program. Whether new to the team or dedicated starters for all four years, each senior has played an important role in shaping this season’s success and team culture. The evening was made even more memorable with a victory over Chantilly, securing a spot in the Regional Tournament for our Wildcats. Congratulations to our student-athletes, their families, and coaches on this exciting milestone and for their continued commitment to excellence.

CVHS Freshman Demonstrates AI Innovation Excellence: We are excited to recognize one of our outstanding Centreville freshman, Michael Ghebrezghi, for his remarkable achievement in the FCPS AI Challenge. Building on this success, he advanced to compete in George Mason University’s AI Day Student Poster Challenge on April 29, where he earned first place among all FCPS high schools. His project, BrightPath, is a free, personalized, judgment-free learning support program that reflects both innovation and a commitment to helping others succeed. We are incredibly proud of his accomplishments and look forward to all he will achieve on his journey toward a future in technology.

International Thespian Society Induction Ceremony: We are proud to recognize our talented students who were recently inducted into the International Thespian Society during a special ceremony held last week. The International Thespian Society is an honor organization that celebrates excellence in theatre arts, recognizing students for their dedication, performance, and contributions both on stage and behind the scenes. Earning induction is a meaningful achievement that reflects a strong commitment to creativity, collaboration, and the performing arts. Congratulations to our newest Thespians on this well-deserved honor! We are proud of the passion and talent you bring to our Wildcat community!

Important Information from FCPS

Discover Exciting Summer Learning Activities and Ideas: Join Fairfax County Public Schools for a free, family-friendly community celebration filled with hands-on STEM, arts, and creative experiences for students of all ages. This year’s Summer Extravaganza takes place on Saturday, June 6, from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., at Woodson High School. Explore summer learning resources and connect with FCPS offices and community partners. Don’t miss the Student Market and a full day of engaging activities designed to spark learning, growth, and inspiration for the whole family. For more information, visit the Summer Extravaganza webpage.

Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow. We All Belong Here!: In FCPS, we all belong. From the first day of school, to the last day of school, every child matters. If your student is having a hard time finishing the year strong and attending school, please contact a trusted adult at our school — a teacher, counselor, or administrator. Visit FCPS’ website for more attendance resources. 

No-Cost Virtual Therapy for High School Students: Virtual therapy sessions are available to FCPS high school students at no cost to provide a safe space to address concerns such as: 

• Mood/behavior changes, motivation, grief/loss.
• Anxiety, worry, fears.
• Social skills, bullying, peer and family relationships.
• Academic stress.

Students can be referred by a guardian or designated school staff member. You may refer your child by calling 571-749-2940 or by contacting an FCPS school counselor, social worker, psychologist, or director of Student Services. Visit the FCPS Teletherapy webpage for more information.

Your Child's Mental Wellness Matters: Access Comprehensive Services: Reach out to the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board (CSB) for specialized youth mental health services designed to help your child succeed. The CSB has individual and family counseling, psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, medication management, parenting groups, peer support, crisis response, recovery supports that include medication-assisted treatment (MAT), intensive services, and other services. Contact CSB Entry and Referral to get started by calling 703-383-8500 or emailing csb@fairfaxcounty.gov. 

Additional Mental Health Resources: FCPS has resources available to support your child’s mental health. During after-school hours, parents and students who need additional support can use the 988 Lifeline to get free, confidential guidance from trained crisis counselors on how to best help someone experiencing a mental health challenge or crisis. You can call or text the number. Recent reports have shared an 11% drop in suicides among young people since the rollout of 988. Please note, the hotline is not only for those experiencing suicidal ideation (or thoughts), it is also available for any mental health or substance abuse-related crisis and those with a loved one experiencing those crises or suicidal thoughts. And as always, if your concern is an emergency, you should call 911.

Información importante

Descubra emocionantes actividades e ideas de aprendizaje para el verano: Acompañe a las Escuelas Públicas del Condado de Fairfax (FCPS) en una celebración comunitaria gratuita y apta para toda la familia, repleta de experiencias prácticas en STEM, artes y creatividad para estudiantes de todas las edades. La «Summer Extravaganza» de este año tendrá lugar el sábado 6 de junio, de 10:00 a. m. a 2:30 p. m., en la Escuela Secundaria Woodson. Explore recursos de aprendizaje para el verano y conéctese con las oficinas de las FCPS y socios comunitarios. No se pierda el Mercado Estudiantil ni un día completo de actividades cautivadoras, diseñadas para despertar el aprendizaje, el crecimiento y la inspiración en toda la familia. Para obtener más información, visite la página web de la Summer Extravaganza.

Asiste a la escuela hoy; para tener éxito mañana. ¡Todo Pertenecemos Aqui!: Todos pertenecemos a FCPS. Desde el primer día de escuela, hasta el último día de escuela, cada niño importa. Si su estudiante está teniendo dificultades para terminar el año con fuerza y asistir a la escuela, por favor contacte a un adulto de confianza en la escuela-un maestro, consejero o administrador. Visite FCPS’ sitio web para obtener más recursos sobre la asistencia. 

Terapia Virtual Gratuita para Estudiantes de High School: Sesiones virtuales de terapia gratuitas están disponibles para estudiantes de secundaria de FCPS, lo que les ofrece un espacio seguro para encarar problemas como:

• Cambios de estado de ánimo o de comportamiento, motivación, duelo y pérdida.
• Ansiedad, preocupaciones, miedos.
• Habilidades de socialización, abuso (bullying), relaciones con semejantes y familiares.
• Estrés académico.

Los estudiantes pueden ser referidos por su cuidador o personal escolar designado. Usted puede referir a su hijo llamando al 571-749-2940 o contactando al consejero escolar, trabajador social, psicólogo o director de servicios al estudiante de FCPS. Para encontrar más información, visite la página FCPS Teletherapy.